Category Archives: Mini Grants

February 4, 2021 eNews


Reimagine the Armatage Mini Grant Program

Help impact the future of the Armatage Mini Grant Program and join our neighborhood-wide brainstorming call this Tuesday, February 9 at 7:00pm on Zoom! We need YOUR input to “reimagine” the Mini Grant Program and make it even more impactful going forward.

Email anacoordinator@armatage.org for the Zoom link to the February 9 call. Please bring your ideas on ways to utilize mini grants as well as any questions about the program overall. Then you can help us to re-evaluate how we support neighborhood initiatives through the Mini Grant program for years to come.

What Comes Next for Plastic

THANK YOU to everyone who joined our Let’s Talk About Plastic series.  We were blown away by the response from both Armatage and surrounding communities.  Plastic is wreaking havoc in our world and is an equity issue that disproportionately impacts BIPOC and low-income communities.  Here’s how you can take action:

Joint Carjacking and Robbery Operation Arrests

Sharing this update from the City of Minneapolis:

Officers from the Minneapolis Police Department and deputies with the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Violent Offender Task Force teamed up recently with air support from the Minnesota State Patrol to target groups of individuals responsible for the on-going number of violent robberies and carjackings in parts of South Minneapolis.

The three-day joint operation, which took place Jan. 26-28, resulted in 46 arrests, including 69 felony level charges. Law enforcement recovered 15 firearms and 12 stolen vehicles. Six of the vehicles were occupied at the time officers and deputies seized the vehicles.

The felony level arrests included probable cause charges of carjacking, drugs and weapons violations, auto theft and fleeing police. Last year, there were 405 carjackings in the city of Minneapolis, a 301% increase over 2019.

Tips to reduce your risk of becoming a carjacking victim:

  • Park in well-lit areas.
  • Always be hyper-aware of your surroundings.
  • Equip your car with an anti-theft device.
  • Lock your doors while driving.
  • Don’t stop for apparently stranded strangers along the road. Note their location and pull over in a safe place once you’ve passed to call for help.

Statewide Vaccine Finder

The State of Minnesota has ramped up its COVID-19 vaccination efforts and launched a statewide vaccine finder to better connect Minnesotans age 65 plus to vaccination opportunities in communities near where they live. Learn more about the State’s vaccine distribution plan.

Celebrate Black History Month with the Minneapolis Institute of Arts

Celebrate the exceptional historical and creative cultural contributions made by African American artists with exhibitions, virtual events, videos, stories, and more. For links to the MIA’s free offerings including virtual Family Day on February 14, visit https://new.artsmia.org/black-history-month

Free Fun on the Run for Youth & Teens

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board just launched Winter Fun on the Run, where staff bring outdoor recreation and activities to seven neighborhood parks across Minneapolis.  All youth and teens are welcome to come by between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm for fun and games at a safe – and social! – distance. All activities are FREE and no registration is necessary. MPRB staff sanitize equipment after each use and help ensure participants follow social distancing guidelines.

Distanced activities include sledding, kick sledding, snow soccer, snow fort building, snowman building, snow corn hole and more. In Southwest, staff will be at Lyndale Farmstead Park on Mondays and at Linden Hills Park on Wednesdays.  Learn more including helpful hints before you go here.

Winter Birding 101, with Dudley Edmondson and Monica Bryand

An inclusive family- and BIPOC-friendly virtual introduction to Minnesota’s most spot-able “snow birds,” featuring co-host Annie Baxter of MPR’s The Water Main.

WHEN: Saturday, February 6, 3:00pm
WHERE: Everywhere on Zoom
TICKETS: Free, register via Eventbrite

This conversational event will introduce novice bird watchers of all ages to the joys of being outdoors in the winter and reframe who has access and feels welcome in our parks and public spaces. Speakers will cover where Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ can connect with fellow bird watchers in Minnesota’s outdoors.


Armatage Welcome Bags

Attention new neighbors! If you’ve recently moved into the neighborhood, we want to bring you a Welcome Bag! The groovy, reusable tote bag’s contents include useful information on the Armatage Neighborhood Association (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!


Saving Energy Can Make Your Home More Comfortable

It takes a lot of energy to keep our homes comfortable during Minneapolis’s famously chilly winters. However, homes that look similar may need very different amounts of energy to maintain this comfort. That difference is measurable — it represents the energy efficiency of a home.

For almost a year, the City has been assessing the energy use of houses on the market and has compiled thousands of home efficiency scores. Because many Minneapolis homes are older, the average city score is 70 out of 100. (You can
view the publicly available map of scores online at mncee.org/tish/yourscore).

Call 651-328-6225 to speak with an Energy Advisor or visit mncee.org/tish for more information.

Block Leader Contact Info

We’re gathering block leader contact information for every block in Armatage and need your help! Thanks to everyone who has already reached out. Currently, block leader information cannot be shared or accessed by the neighborhood. If you are a block leader, please send your name, address, email address, phone, and the block(s) that you represent to me at anacoordinator@armatage.org

Interested in learning more about block and apartment clubs and how they work? Visit http://bit.ly/blockclubs

Keep Calm and Use Less Salt

When snow and ice melt, the road salt must go somewhere. When over applied, the excess salt flows directly into ditches and storm drains and then into lakes, streams, wetlands, and groundwater. Salt does not breakdown or degrade over time and instead will persist, permanently polluting our waterways.

Less is more when it comes to applying salt because at high concentrations, chloride can harm the fish and plant life in our waters and alter the taste of drinking water. In fact, the salt sitting on the pavement is no longer helping us, it’s hurting us and polluting our waters. We’ve all seen it and now it’s time to address the problem head on.

More salting does not mean more melting. Remember these 4 steps during our next storm:

  • Shovel and scrape before snow compacts,
  • Select the correct de-icer,
  • Scatter salt only where critical, and
  • Sweep up and reuse leftover salt.

Salt is widely used and is an important public safety tool in winter conditions. The goal is not to compromise public safety, but instead advocate how we can wisely use salt to provide safe conditions and be mindful of the environment. If you’re interested in learning more or have any questions, feel free to reach out to Lianna at lianna.goldstein@minneapolismn.gov

Board & Committee Expectations

ANA Committee Expectations Policy

This policy was approved on January 19, 2021 and can be updated at any time with a vote by the full Board of Directors. It is intended to:

  1. Outline expectations of Board of Directors’ Committee activity
  2. Outline current committees, committee objectives and suggested programs/activities

Board of Director Expectations:

  • Required:
    • Join and actively participate in at least one ANA committee:
      • Attend a minimum of 6 committee meetings per year.
    • Volunteer at a minimum of 3-4 committee events per year (one must be the Summer Festival, if held).
    • Attend committee meetings and notify fellow board members prior to any absence.
      • Per the ANA Bylaws, if a board member misses three meetings (Monthly Meetings or Committee Meetings) without prior notification, they are deemed to have vacated their board seat.
    • Take committee meeting notes
      • Provide notes to Coordinator and Secretary and/or report back to the full Board of Directors so important information can be included into the full board monthly meeting minutes
    • Facilitate in the recruitment of new committee members from the ANA community (General Board Members)
  • Strongly Encouraged:
    • For remote meetings, plan to have your camera on.
    • Participate in email discussion and interact with ANA social media posts.
    • Minimum 6 month commitment; can change committees yearly–each January at monthly board meeting.

Committee Expectations (All):

  • Establish and hold consistent meeting date and times (quarterly, bi-monthly, monthly, etc)
  • Committees shall meet a minimum of 4 – 6 times per year, or more as needed and determined by Committee members
  • Seek any requested funding approval from the full Board of Directors during a monthly ANA meeting
  • All meetings must be available to the public
  • Committee members to provide ANA Coordinator with created and/or proposed social media content for events/initiatives pertaining to the committee
  • Committees to determine annual plan, propose to full board at December meeting
  • Submit proposed/suggested digital and/or print communications/posts to the ANA Coordinator to be shared through ANA channels

Committee Chair Responsibilities (to be elected annually or as needed by committee members):

  • Lead committee meetings
  • Year-end work planning and reporting
  • Welcome new members
  • Set agenda
  • Ensure notes are taken (generally performed by Board Director(s) sitting in a given committee)
  • Delegate tasks as needed
  • Others as identified

ANA Committees:

Green Team:

  • Charge:
    • Lead activities that encourage and/or strengthen sustainable/environmental improvements in the Armatage neighborhood
  • Example of Programs/Activities:
    • Rain & native garden program
    • Green Team Donation Drive or Earth Day Event
    • Zero waste services at ANA events
    • Neighborhood clean-ups
    • Storm drains
    • Workshops and any other programs/educational campaigns
  • Reports to the ANA Board with proposed programming, outcomes and evaluation, and to seek funding approval.
  • Committee membership size limit: None

Mini Grant Committee:

  • Charge:
    • Support and empower Armatage community members to take on projects that directly benefits the neighborhood.
  • Programs/Activities:
    • Guides the Mini Grant cycle:
      • Drafts applications
      • Evaluates proposals
      • Recommends funding to the Full ANA Board of Directors
      • Leads on program evaluation
      • Supports grantees throughout the year
      • Submit digital and print communications/posts to be shared through ANA channels.
    • Reports to the ANA Board with proposed guidelines for each cycle, funding requests, application updates and outcomes.
    • Committee membership size limit: 4 (minimum of one, maximum of two Committee members shall be Directors)

Community Engagement:

  • Charge:
    • Engage in community building through social interaction and events
    • Programs/Activities:
      • Planning of ANA events. Recent ANA events include:
        • Chili Cook-off & Fire on Ice Park Event (Jan)
        • Summer Movie (June or July)
        • Summer Festival (Aug)
        • September Pop-up Event (perhaps another Food Truck Night?)
        • Halloween Tour or Park Event (Oct)
        • Tree Lighting (Nov – discontinued)
        • Holiday Light Tour (Dec)
        • Food Truck Night
        • Sweet Treats in the Park
    • Reports to the ANA Board with proposed programming, outcomes and evaluation, and to seek funding approval.
    • Committee membership size limit: None

Safety, Equity and Outreach Committee:

  • Charge:
    • Engage in events and activities that drive toward safety more broadly, and equity and anti-discrimination more specifically
  • Example Programs/Activities: this group could have a broad charge that could include the following topics:
    • Equity and anti-racism work (ex: seminars, workshops)
    • Pedestrian safety education
    • Outreach to the City of Mpls around specific intersections/traffic/pedestrian infrastructure
    • Housing
    • Education
    • Policing and advocating for reform
    • Safety Rebate program
    • Welcome Bags
  • Reports to the ANA Board with proposed programming, outcomes and evaluation, and to seek funding approval.
  • Committee membership size limit: None

Policy & Finance Committee:

  • Charge:
    • Mange and provide oversight to all governing documents/policies and finances
  • Programs/Activities:
    • Lead on reviewing and updating ANA policies (Bylaws, Committee Expectations Policy, new required City policies, financial procedures)
    • Oversight, budgeting, staffing, official public comments, etc.
    • Annual Meeting Planning (May)
    • Other business as needed
  • Reports to the ANA Board with proposed programming, outcomes and evaluation, and to seek funding approval.
  • Committee membership size limit: ANA Officers (President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary), although community input and participation is welcome

March 5, 2020 eNews

Neighborhood Happy Hour

Tuesday, March 10
7:00-9:00pm
Red Wagon Pizza

Meet neighbors and catch up on everything that’s happening around Armatage at our next Neighborhood Happy Hour! With lots happening around neighborhood funding, the Census, and some exciting new organics recycling work, we hope you can stop by!

Helpful details: complimentary pizza provided by the ANA, cash bar, no need to RSVP, kids are welcome and help tipping our servers is appreciated.

Mini Grants Deadline Extended to March 7

Workshops, a community bread and pizza oven, bike clinics, little free libraries, tool sharing… the possibilities are endless. What could YOU do for the neighborhood with a $1,000 Mini Grant?

The deadline to apply for the 2020 Mini Grant round is extended to this Saturday, March 7. Check out the grant requirements and download the application at armatage.org/mini-grants

Organics Recycling Volunteers Needed

Huge thanks to everyone who attended our Organics Recycling CONFIDENT(ial) workshop last week!  This workshop kicked off an exciting year of neighborhood organics recycling outreach.  At the moment, only 47.68% of eligible Armatage neighbors are signed up for the City’s organics recycling collection program.  We think we can push that number MUCH higher and we need your help!

Can you help us by donating a few hours sometime this summer?  We’ll be door knocking, delivering starter kits, and tabling at neighborhood events in teams.  All experience levels welcome – training and materials will be provided and you can sign up when it works for you.  Sign up to help here.

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Palmisano Presents: Future of Neighborhood Organizations & Funding

Tuesday, March 24
6:30-8:00pm
SW Mpls location TBD

Save the date for a final conversation with City staff and Council Member Linea Palmisano to talk about the future of the Minneapolis neighborhood organizations.  Big changes are proposed and the City Council is scheduled to vote this May.

The final Neighborhoods 2020 Draft Guidelines were released late last week and residents can comment through April 17. Proposed funding levels for neighborhood organizations like the ANA will significantly decrease in 2021 and beyond to shift more funding toward areas of the City with greater equity needs. Read the draft guidelines and learn more at www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ncr/2020


Transportation Action Plan Open Houses

The City will be opening public comment on the draft 10-year Transportation Action Plan next week, which will guide future planning, design, and implementation of transportation projects for all people in all the ways they move around. View the plan and learn more at go.minneapolismn.gov/

Public comment on the draft plan will begin next Monday March 9th and will continue for 45 days. The City will host  hosting the first of 4 open houses to learn and give feedback.

  • Wednesday March 11th – Open house, Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall, 4pm-6pm
  • Tuesday March 24th – Open house, MLK Jr Recreation Center, 4055 Nicollet Avenue S, 5pm-7pm
  • Wednesday April 8th – Online open house, Minneapolis Facebook page, 6pm-7pm
  • Monday April 13th – Open house, UMN Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC), 2001 Plymouth Ave N, 4:30-6:30pm

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Get Ready for the 2020 Census

Every ten years, the U.S. Census Bureau works to count every person in the United States, including everyone living in Minneapolis. The resulting count will guide the distribution of billions of dollars to our communities, determine political representation for the next decade (including Minnesota’s number of congressional representatives), and provide data that shapes how policymakers and business leaders decide to invest public and private resources. Getting an accurate and complete count of all residents is vital.

Info on completing this year’s Census will be mailed soon!  In the meantime, see a sample census form and check out FAQs, how you can help, census guides in English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong and more at www.wecountminneapolis.org/

Upcoming Workshops – Resilient Yards and More

Metro Blooms will host a series of low cost, do-it-yourself workshops again this spring on Resilient Yards, Turf Alternatives, and Healthy Soil. Plus, a Resilient Yards workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22 at Armatage Park and we don’t know a better way to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day than that!  Learn more and sign up  at bluethumb.org/events/


Updated Plans for SW Minneapolis Neighborhood Parks

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board released updated park plans for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan.  A 45-day public comment period runs now through April 5, 2020.

Visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans online or visit any of the 13 recreation centers in the Southwest Service Area to see a paper copy and leave written comments.

Recycle Smart - no plastic bags, large plastic items or random metal items in your recycling cart

Minneapolis Recycling Info

Minneapolis started 2020 with a recycling contamination rate of 8.51%. While this is a great result, we can do better! Keeping non-recyclable items out of your cart helps reduce challenges with collection, sorting, and processing your items into something new. Learn more at minneapolismn.gov/solid-waste/

Always recycle:

  • Mail, office and school papers
  • Magazines, newspaper and inserts
  • Boxes (food, beverage, toiletries)
  • Cardboard
  • Steel and aluminum cans
  • Glass jars and bottles
  • Plastic bottles, containers, jugs (#1, 2, 5)
  • Cartons (milk, broth, juice)

Never recycle:

  • Plastic bags
  • Bagged recycling
  • Large plastic items (laundry baskets, storage tubs, toys)
  • Random metal items (pots and pans, pipes and poles, hangers)
  • Food-soiled paper (napkins, paper towels, paper plates, fast-food wrap)
  • Straws and utensils
  • Electronics and batteries
  • Hazardous materials (motor oil, propane tanks, etc.)
  • Medical waste (sharps: needles and syringes, lancets)
  • Tanglers (hoses, cords, holiday lights, etc.)

Plus sign up to go on a tour of Eureka Recycling’s sorting facility, where our Minneapolis recycling is processed and sorted!

February 21, 2020 eNews

February 18, 2020 Meeting Recap

The board approved its annual outreach report for the City. We are so grateful to the volunteers who donated 1,605 hours of their time to the Armatage Neighborhood Association in 2019! The board also discussed the upcoming Mini Grants deadline, Organics Recycling Workshop, recently awarded grant for Census-related outreach, and heard presentations from the following speakers:

  • Michael Jischke, from the Minnehaha Creek Master Plan Community Advisory Committee, on the designs for the section of the creek closest to Armatage.
  • Kate Hersey, Executive Director of the Minnesota Tool Library, on the process of setting up tool libraries.
  • Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist for the 5th Precinct, on neighborhood crime data.

Our Organics Recycling CONFIDENT(ial) workshop happens next Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm at Armatage Park!  Come learn and share ideas in a fun, supportive atmosphere. 🙂  Whether you are already recycling organics and ready to up your game or are still thinking about taking the plunge and getting started, we will cover the latest program updates, tips, tricks, and ideas for home set-ups to help make organics recycling a breeze.

Free to attend. Light refreshments and FREE compostable bags provided to the first 50 attendees. Questions or ideas? Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

Just One Week Left to Apply for a Mini Grant

If you have a neighborhood project or idea you’ve always wanted to explore, apply now through February 29 for up to $1,000 in grant funds from the ANA to support that dream.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage is eligible and some funding restrictions apply. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants

Your Vote Guide

Minnesota is holding its first Presidential Primary since 1992!  Unlike other elections, voters in the presidential primary need to choose which party’s ballot they want to vote on. The party they choose is not public information, though it will be available to each party.

Here’s all the info you need to vote on March 3:

Check out updated plans for SW Minneapolis neighborhood parks

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board released updated park plans for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan.  A 45-day public comment period runs now through April 5, 2020.

Visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans online or visit any of the 13 recreation centers in the Southwest Service Area to see a paper copy and leave written comments.

Apply for Lawns to Legumes Pollinator Grants

Appy now for the state’s new Lawns to Legumes Assistance program, through which all Minnesota residents are eligible to apply for a $350 cost-share in order to establish pollinator habitat in their yards. Applications will be chosen through a randomized drawing, with priority given to projects in high-priority areas – including our neighborhood! The first application period runs through Feb. 28. Submit your materials today!

Hennepin County Deconstruction Incentives

Homeowners and developers of residential properties can receive up to $5,000 to help offset the additional costs associated with deconstruction.

Grants are available for demolition or renovation projects that are 250 square feet or larger on structures built prior to 1950. Learn more about the grants including eligibility and requirements at hennepin.us/deconstruction.

February 14, 2020 eNews

February 18, 2020 Agenda

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • Park Update
  • Minnesota Tool Library – Kate Hersey, Executive Director
  • 2019 Annual CPP Report
  • Other Business
  • President’s Report
  • Minutes – approved via email
  • Treasurer Report – financials emailed
  • Safety Update – Jennifer Waisanen, 5th Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator
  • Committee Updates:
    • Green Team: 2/26 Recycling Workshop
    • Mini Grants: Final outreach for 2020 grant cycle
    • Summer Festival
  •  Coordinator Update

Join your neighbors for an Organics Recycling CONFIDENT(ial) workshop on Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm at Armatage Park!  Whether you are already recycling organics and ready to up your game or still thinking about taking the plunge and getting started, we will cover the latest program info, tips, tricks, and ideas for home set-ups to help make organics recycling a breeze.

Free to attend. Light refreshments and FREE compostable bags provided to the first 50 attendees. Questions or ideas? Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

If you have a neighborhood project or idea you’ve always wanted to explore, apply now through February 29 for up to $1,000 in grant funds from the ANA to support that dream.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage is eligible and some funding restrictions apply. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants

Check out updated plans for SW Minneapolis neighborhood parks

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board released updated park plans for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan.  A 45-day public comment period runs now through April 5, 2020.

Visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans online or visit any of the 13 recreation centers in the Southwest Service Area to see a paper copy and leave written comments.

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.

Celebrate Black History Month

Honor Black History Month this February and year-round with community events, exhibitions, tours and movie nights.  The ANA will continue to add to this list throughout the month and we invite you to send us community events we’re missing to share with neighbors.

City of Minneapolis: Celebrate with ongoing events organized by the Minneapolis Black Employee Network. All events will be held on Thursdays from 12:00-1:00pm in the City Hall Rotunda, 350 S. Fifth St.

Minneapolis Institute of Arts: Celebrate the exceptional historical and creative cultural contributions made by African American artists with exhibitions, events, tours, and more this February at the MIA.

Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board and Green Central School  will partner to host movie nights every Thursday evening in February to honor Black History Month. Each movie will be culturally based, with a focus on achievement and overcoming.

Elections and Voter Services 980 E Hennepin Ave map and building entrance images

Early Voting Information

Any voter can vote early through March 2; no explanation is required. Unlike with other elections, voters in the presidential primary need to choose which party’s ballot they want to vote on. The party they choose is not public information, though it will be available to each party.

Vote early in person:

Vote by mail at vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/absentee (request your absentee ballot at least 7 days before March 3).

Voter Registration

Register, change your registration, or check if you’re registered at mnvotes.org. Registering online only takes a couple minutes, and the application is mobile-friendly. You can also register at the polls on election day.

Kids holding purple baseball bat during an adaptive sports program at Matthews Recreation Center

Adaptive activities and events available this spring at Minneapolis Parks

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MRPB) offers a wide variety of programs and events for adults and kids with disabilities. Check out the list of upcoming adaptive programs and register by clicking the “REGISTER” link at the bottom of each program description or visiting minneapolisparks.org/register and entering the registration number in parentheses next to the activity title.

Questions? Contact MPRB Inclusion Coordinator Sarah Thorsen at 612-230-6478 or sthorsen@minneapolisparks.org.

Spring Break Day Camps

Armatage Community Education is offering several great day camps during MPS Spring Break. Each day camp runs from 10:00am-2:00pm. Click on the links to below to learn more and register your student:

February 6, 2020 eNews

If you have a neighborhood project or idea you’ve always wanted to explore, apply now through February 29 for up to $1,000 from the ANA to support that dream.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage is eligible and some funding restrictions apply. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants and catch us at our last Info Session​ to workshop your project ideas and get all your questions answered:

Mini Grants Info Session
Tuesday, February 11 • 7:00pm 
Armatage Rec Center
2500 West 57th St

Join your neighbors for an Organics Recycling CONFIDENT(ial) workshop on Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm at Armatage Park!  Whether you are already recycling organics and ready to up your game or still thinking about taking the plunge and getting started, we will cover examples, tips, tricks, and ideas for home set-ups to help make organics recycling a breeze.

Free to attend. Light refreshments and FREE compostable bags provided.  Questions or ideas? Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

District 61 Town Hall Meeting

Saturday, February 8
10:00am-12:00pm
T Plaza Dining Rom
MCTC (1501 Hennepin Ave S)

Visit face-to-face with Rep. Jamie Long, Rep. Frank Hornstein, Sen. Scott Dibble, and your Senate District 61 neighbors this Saturday at Minneapolis Community and Technical College.

The format will be community conversations, where you’ll both get a chance to talk to your legislators and share your legislative priorities with neighbors in smaller breakout groups. See more details (including parking info) and RSVP on the Facebook event here, and share with your friends, neighbors, and relatives.


Join the Green Team on Thursday, February 7 to 7:00pm to plan this year’s neighborhood organics recycling outreach and upcoming free community workshop! All are welcome, whether you’ve attended team meetings in the past or would like to get started.

The Green Team is shifting its meetings to the second Thursday of each month at 7:00pm and will rotate between neighbors’ homes. Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org or call us at 612.466.0296 to get the address of this month’s meeting location.

Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.

Celebrate Black History Month

Honor Black History Month this February and year-round with community events, exhibitions, tours and movie nights.  The ANA will continue to add to this list throughout the month and we invite you to send us community events we’re missing to share with neighbors.

City of Minneapolis: Celebrate with ongoing events organized by the Minneapolis Black Employee Network. All events will be held on Thursdays from 12:00-1:00pm in the City Hall Rotunda, 350 S. Fifth St.

Minneapolis Institute of Arts: Celebrate the exceptional historical and creative cultural contributions made by African American artists with exhibitions, events, tours, and more this February at the MIA.

Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board and Green Central School  will partner to host movie nights every Thursday evening in February to honor Black History Month. Each movie will be culturally based, with a focus on achievement and overcoming.

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School Registration and CDD Survey Deadlines: Friday, February 7

For those with school age children in Minneapolis Public Schools, the deadline to submit your school choice card is tomorrow, February 7! Learn more about High Five, Elementary, Middle and High School options and enroll at https://schoolrequest.mpls.k12.mn.us/.

Minneapolis Public Schools is also in the midst of its Comprehensive District Design process, which aims to increase equity, close student achievement gaps in MPS, and reduce transportation costs. MPS released a plan with five proposed school models in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali and is wrapping up Community Listening Sessions this month.

Community members can submit feedback online through tomorrow, February 7. If passed by the school board later this spring, proposed changes would begin to take effect in Fall 2021.  Learn more about the Comprehensive District Design process here.

Elections and Voter Services 980 E Hennepin Ave map and building entrance images

Early Voting Information

Any voter can vote early through March 2; no explanation is required. Unlike with other elections, voters in the presidential primary need to choose which party’s ballot they want to vote on. The party they choose is not public information, though it will be available to each party.

Vote early in person:

Vote by mail at vote.minneapolismn.gov/voters/absentee (request your absentee ballot at least 7 days before March 3).

Voter Registration

Register, change your registration, or check if you’re registered at mnvotes.org. Registering online only takes a couple minutes, and the application is mobile-friendly. You can also register at the polls on election day.

Voucher

Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Launches Repair Voucher Program

Starting today, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office will no longer be issuing fix-it tickets for broken headlights, taillights, brake lights, or turn signals. Instead, deputies will be handing out vouchers to have these issues fixed at a participating auto service provider.

The Lights On! program is a partnership between law enforcement agencies and MicroGrants, a Minneapolis non-profit focused on helping low-income people break the cycle of poverty. Fixing minor issues such as a broken brake light can go a long way towards breaking the cycle of poverty – individuals who ignore a fix-it ticket are at risk of having their license suspended.

Last Weekend for Art Shanty Projects

Saturdays and Sundays | 10am-4pm
Ends February 9
Bde Unma / Lake Harriet

Check out this year’s Art Shanty Projects at artshantyprojects.org/. Suggested donation $10-20. No one turned away.

Spring Break Day Camps

Armatage Community Education is offering several great day camps during MPS Spring Break. Each day camp runs from 10:00am-2:00pm. Click on the links to below to learn more and register your student:

December 23, 2019 eNews

Happy Holidays from the Armatage Neighborhood Association!

December 17 Meeting Recap

Council Member Linea Palmisano gave an update on the City Budget, new law enforcement training facility, and Vision Zero Plan implementation that may include safety efforts like lowering the speed limit for all Minneapolis streets, adjustments to high injury corridors, addressing unsafe behavior, education, and enforcement.

The Board voted to renew both the Coordinator and Accountant staffing contracts for 2020. Our Coordinator, Lauren Anderson, and Accountant, Rachel Ireland-Henry, are looking forward to another great year with the ANA! The Board also discussed its anticipated 2020 programming, including a few upcoming events in January:

  • Neighborhood Happy Hour • January 14 • 7:00-9:00pm • Red Wagon Pizza
  • Chili Cook-off • January 24 • 6:30-8:30pm • Armatage Park’s Fire & Ice event.
  • Mini Grants Info Session • January 30 • 7:00pm • Book Club Restaurant

Armatage Chili Cook-off

Friday, January 24
6:30-8:30pm
Armatage Park Fire & Ice Skating Party

Do you claim to have the best chili? Put it to the test and sign up for the First Annual Armatage Chili Cook-off to compete against your neighbors and claim the prize of the best chili in the neighborhood.

The Chili Cook-off takes place inside the Armatage Rec Center on Friday, January 24 from 6:30-8:30pm as part of Armatage Park’s Fire & Ice free skating party. Registration closes on Sunday, January 19 so competitors are encouraged to sign up here as soon as possible to reserve their spot. It’s free to compete and just $5 to eat. Competitors should plan to bring a full crock-pot or instant pot of chili to the park by 6:00pm on January 24.


Last Chance for a 2019 Safety Rebate

The Armatage Neighborhood Association offers rebates to residents for up to $100 per calendar year for eligible home safety updates. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your exterior lighting, deadbolt locks, adding security cameras, or more, check our list of eligible expenses and apply for a Safety Rebate before December 31 to take advantage of the 2019 program. If you’ve already gotten a rebate this year, you’ll have the opportunity to apply again in January.

The Resident Safety Rebate program is open to both renters and homeowners and the Business Safety Rebate program is open to any business operating in Armatage. Learn more at armatage.org/programs/safety-rebate-program


If you have a neighborhood project or idea you have always wanted to explore, we invite you to apply for a Mini Grant to support that dream. Applications for the next round of funding will be available on January 6, 2020 at armatage.org/mini-grants and are due February 29, 2020.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage can apply for up to $1,000 to support a project that directly benefits the neighborhood. Some restrictions apply: grant funds cannot be used for general operating, food, entertainment, religious, partisan, or capital expenses. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants or save the date for our upcoming Info Sessions:

  • Thursday, January 30 • 7:00pm • Book Club (5411 Penn Ave S)
  • Tuesday, February 11 • 7:00pm • Armatage Park

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Comprehensive District Design Studies & Listening Sessions

Have you been following the district’s Comprehensive District Design process that aims to increase equity and close student achievement gaps in MPS?  Two new studies available this week propose changes to Minneapolis Public Schools’ magnet programs and community school boundaries. The studies outline significant proposed changes for Armatage School and Zone 3. If passed by the school board next spring, proposed changes would start to take effect in Fall 2021.

Community listening sessions are scheduled for January and February and you can also give feedback online.  Learn more about the Comprehensive District Design process here.

Comment on the City’s ADA Transition Plan

The City of Minneapolis is seeking public comment on the draft Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan for Public Works – a plan that identifies priorities for removing accessibility barriers in the City’s public right of way.

The City is accepting comments on the draft plan through December 27. It is a supplemental plan to the City’s ADA Action Plan, a comprehensive policy document for the City of Minneapolis to comply with the Title II requirements of the ADA. The draft plan was last updated in 2012.

55th & Washburn Holiday Lights

Learn all about how the 5500 block of Washburn Avenue S hangs their magical holiday lights along the boulevard from Armatage resident Jess Bell at armatage.org/lights

Photo credit: Matt Sepeta


Apply for Lawns to Legumes Pollinator Grants

Applications are now open for the state’s new Lawns to Legumes Assistance program, through which all Minnesota residents are eligible to apply for a $350 cost-share in order to establish pollinator habitat in their yards. Applications will be chosen through a randomized drawing, with priority given to projects in high-priority areas – including our community! The first application period runs through Feb. 28. Submit your materials today!

Community outreach Q&A

Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan

On October 25, 2019, the Minneapolis City Council adopted a resolution to approve the City’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Implementation of the plan is already underway and will focus on achieving the goals of eliminating racial disparities, expanding housing options, addressing climate change and improving the lives of residents throughout Minneapolis.

Initial implementation efforts include a text amendment to the zoning ordinance that allows 3-unit residential buildings in areas previously reserved for only single-family residences, and a permanent Inclusionary Zoning ordinance, both of which go into effect on January 1, 2020. In the coming years the City will continue to implement elements of the 2040 Plan.


Free Manufacturing Career Training

Local nonprofit HIRED is offering free manufacturing career training and certification courses.  The next round of training begins January 21, 2020 and priority is given to Minneapolis residents. Learn more and apply at http://www.hired.org/training/manufacturing/

January 9, 2020 eNews


Neighborhood Happy Hour

Tuesday, January 14
7:00-9:00pm
Red Wagon Pizza

Meet neighbors and catch up on everything that’s happening around Armatage at our first Neighborhood Happy Hour of the decade!

Helpful details: complimentary pizza provided by the ANA, cash bar, no need to RSVP, kids are welcome and help tipping our servers is appreciated.

First Annual Armatage Chili Cook-off

Friday, January 24
6:30-8:30pm
Armatage Park Fire & Ice Skating Party

Do you claim to have the best chili? Put it to the test and sign up for the First Annual Armatage Chili Cook-off to compete against your neighbors and claim the prize of the best chili in the neighborhood at Armatage Park’s free Fire & Ice Skating Party.

Registration closes on Sunday, January 19 so sign up here as soon as possible to reserve your spot. It’s free to compete and just $5 to eat.

Chili Tasters Needed

Help judge our competitors’ offerings! Come to the Chili Cook-off to taste each entry and vote for your favorite chili in Armatage. The cost to eat is $5 per person and tasting is open to all.  Bring or borrow skates and enjoy music and cocoa as part of the Fire & Ice Skating Party and help us crown the neighborhood’s 2020 Chili Champion.


If you have a neighborhood project or idea you’ve always wanted to explore, apply now through February 29 for up to $1,000 from the ANA to support that dream.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage is eligible and some funding restrictions apply. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants and catch us at two upcoming Info Sessions​ to share your project ideas and get your questions answered:

  • Thursday, January 30 • 7:00pm • Book Club (5411 Penn Ave S)
  • Tuesday, February 11 • 7:00pm • Armatage Park (2500 West 57th St)

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Comprehensive District Design Studies & Listening Sessions

Minneapolis Public Schools is in the midst of its Comprehensive District Design process, which aims to increase equity and close student achievement gaps in MPS.  Two new studies released last month examine the district’s magnet programs and community school boundaries.

MPS plans to release a proposal with school and boundary changes in late January and will hold community listening sessions over the next month. Community members can also submit feedback online. If passed by the school board later this spring, proposed changes would begin to take effect in Fall 2021.  Learn more about the Comprehensive District Design process here.


The Senior Community Services HOME Program removes snow for seniors in Hennepin County and is currently seeking snow removal seasonal workers. Visit their website at seniorcommunity.org/snow-removal-contractor/ to apply.

Wage Theft Prevention Ordinance Takes Effect

Workers in Minneapolis now have additional avenue to recover unpaid wages under the City’s new wage theft prevention ordinance, which went into effect January 1. Under the ordinance, employers must do the following:

  • Provide employees with written pre-hire notices of certain employment terms; notices must be signed by employees.
  • Adhere to a regularly scheduled payday.
  • Provide earnings statements at the end of each pay period.
  • Provide notice of benefits under the City’s sick and safe time ordinance on pre-hire notices and earnings statements.

Wage theft is underpayment or failure to pay all wages earned. You can report wage theft to 311 or use the online complaint form. Learn more about the ordinance and find additional info for employers here.


New Energy Efficiency Scores for Home Sales

Prospective homebuyers will soon have information on a house’s energy efficiency before they decide to buy it – like knowing the miles per gallon of a car. Sellers have a Truth in Sale of Housing evaluation, and starting Jan. 15, that document will also include an energy disclosure report showing the home’s “energy score.” The higher the score, the more efficient and resilient to weather extremes the property is.

The energy disclosure report helps buyers and sellers determine what energy efficiency improvements they can make to lower their energy use and reduce carbon emissions. Read more about the new energy efficiency scores here.

January 16, 2020 eNews

January 21, 2020 Meeting Agenda

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • 2020 Census – David Rubedor, Director of NCR & Casey Carl, City Clerk
  • Summer Festival Planning Committee
  • Sister Neighborhood Pilot Presentation – Denis Houle
  • Neighborhoods 2020 Update
  • President’s Report
    • 2020 ANA Annual Meeting
  • Minutes – approved via email
  • Treasurer Report – financials emailed
  • 2019 Year End Financials
  • Committee Updates:
    • Green Team
      • Supplies for 2/26 Organics Recycling Workshop
    • Mini Grants:
      • Info Sessions
  • Other Business

Meetings are open to all community members and are held the third Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm at the Armatage Recreation Center.  Join us and learn more at armatage.org!

First Annual Armatage Chili Cook-off

Friday, January 24
6:30-8:30pm
Armatage Park Fire & Ice Skating Party

Do you claim to have the best chili? Put it to the test and sign up to compete against your neighbors and claim the prize of the best chili in the neighborhood at Armatage Park’s free Fire & Ice Skating Party.  Register here by this Sunday, January 19 to participate (and rumor has it some well known guests will come to help judge). It’s free to compete and just $5 to eat.


Come for Chili & Skating

Help judge our competitors’ offerings! Come to the Chili Cook-off to taste each entry and vote for your favorite chili in Armatage. The cost to eat is $5 per person and tasting is open to all (we’ll ask our competitors to label major allergens). Bring or borrow skates and enjoy music and cocoa as part of the Fire & Ice Skating Party and help us crown the neighborhood’s 2020 Chili Champion.


If you have a neighborhood project or idea you’ve always wanted to explore, apply now through February 29 for up to $1,000 from the ANA to support that dream.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage is eligible and some funding restrictions apply. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants and catch us at two upcoming Info Sessions​ to share your project ideas and get your questions answered:

  • Thursday, January 30 • 7:00pm • Book Club (5411 Penn Ave S)
  • Tuesday, February 11 • 7:00pm • Armatage Park (2500 West 57th St)

Join your neighbors for an Organics Recycling CONFIDENT(ial) workshop on Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm at Armatage Park!  Whether you are already recycling organics and ready to up your game or still thinking about taking the plunge and getting started, we will cover examples, tips, tricks, and ideas for home set-ups to help make organics recycling a breeze.

Free to attend. Light refreshments and free compostable bags provided.  Questions? Email anacoordinator@armatage.org

Honor the Legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with Three Celebrations at Mpls Parks

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) will host three free community celebrations on Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 20:

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Comprehensive District Design Studies & Listening Sessions

Minneapolis Public Schools is in the midst of its Comprehensive District Design process, which aims to increase equity and close student achievement gaps in MPS.  Two new studies released last month examine the district’s magnet programs and community school boundaries.

MPS plans to release a proposal with school and boundary changes in late January and will hold community listening sessions over the next month. Community members can also submit feedback online. If passed by the school board later this spring, proposed changes would begin to take effect in Fall 2021.  Learn more about the Comprehensive District Design process here.

Lake Harriet Kite Festival

Saturday, January 25
12:00pm-4:00pm

Kites of all shapes, sizes, colors, and themes will fly over frozen Lake Harriet. Other fun family activities at the festival include ice fishing,  snowshoeing, and a marshmallow roast. Click here to learn more.

Art Shanty Projects 2020

Saturdays and Sundays | 10am-4pm
January 18 – February 9
Bde Unma / Lake Harriet

Check out this year’s Art Shanty Projects at artshantyprojects.org/. Suggested donation $10-20. No one turned away.

Community Connections Conference

Saturday, February 1
8:00am-4:00pm
Minneapolis Convention Center
Free (including lunch and bus pass!)

Sign up for part or all of the City’s upcoming Community Connections Conference.  This free, public event brings together residents of Minneapolis, community groups, neighborhoods and decision-makers to connect, learn and address community issues. A fabulous lunch from local restaurants is provided free along with free bus passes to the event.

Learn more, check out the breakout sessions, and sign up at minneapolismn.gov/connectionsconf

January 23, 2020 eNews

January 21, 2020 Meeting Recap

David Rubedor, Director of NCR, and Casey Carl, Minneapolis City Clerk, presented on the 2020 Census and Elections.  Over 20% of Minneapolis residents are at risk of not being counted in the Census, which would have huge impacts over the next decade on the distribution of billions of dollars to our community, local redistricting, and the state’s political representation. With this year’s Census being online, the City of Minneapolis, community-based organizations and neighborhoods are working hard to get a complete count of our residents.

Minnesota’s first Presidential Nominating Primary since 1992 happens on March 3.  Early voting started on January 17 and voters are required to choose a party affiliation and party ballot for the primary (this will not be public information, though it will be available to each major party). Get registered to vote, learn about precinct caucuses on February 25, look up your polling place and learn more at http://vote.minneapolismn.gov

The Board also discussed the upcoming Chili Cook-off, partnering with other Minneapolis neighborhoods, the Community Connections Conference on February 1, the new Neighborhoods 2020 funding plan that will be released next week, and the Armatage Mini Grants program, which is accepting applications for the 2020 grant round through February 29. Funds were also approved for the upcoming Organics Recycling Workshop,

Chili Cook-off Tomorrow Night!

Friday, January 24
6:30-8:30pm
Armatage Park Fire & Ice Skating Party

Need an affordable dinner out tomorrow night?  Come taste the 7+ delicious chilis at the Armatage Chili Cook-off for just $5/person and vote for your favorite! Tasting is open to all and our competitors will label major allergens.

We’re also excited to announce that two guest judges from neighborhood faves, Book Club and Colita, will join us tomorrow night. Look for the Chili Cook-off inside the park building and come warm up with some chili!

Fire & Ice Skating Party

Bring or borrow skates and enjoy a night of music, s’mores, and cocoa as part of Armatage Park’s Fire & Ice Skating Party tomorrow (Friday) from 6:30-8:30pm!


If you have a neighborhood project or idea you’ve always wanted to explore, apply now through February 29 for up to $1,000 from the ANA to support that dream.

Any resident or organization connected to Armatage is eligible and some funding restrictions apply. Learn more at armatage.org/mini-grants and catch us at two upcoming Info Sessions​ to share your project ideas and get your questions answered:

  • Thursday, January 30 • 7:00pm • Book Club (5411 Penn Ave S)
  • Tuesday, February 11 • 7:00pm • Armatage Park (2500 West 57th St)


Join your neighbors for an Organics Recycling CONFIDENT(ial) workshop on Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm at Armatage Park!  Whether you are already recycling organics and ready to up your game or still thinking about taking the plunge and getting started, we will cover examples, tips, tricks, and ideas for home set-ups to help make organics recycling a breeze.

Free to attend. Light refreshments and FREE compostable bags provided.  Questions? Email anacoordinator@armatage.org

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Comprehensive District Design Listening Sessions Start Next Week

Minneapolis Public Schools is in the midst of its Comprehensive District Design process, which aims to increase equity and close student achievement gaps in MPS.

There is a ton happening with the CDD in over the next few weeks. MPS plans to release a plan with proposed school and boundary changes in the next week and community listening sessions are happening throughout the City over the next month. Community members can also submit feedback online. If passed by the school board later this spring, proposed changes would begin to take effect in Fall 2021.  Learn more about the Comprehensive District Design process here.

Community Connections Conference

Saturday, February 1
8:00am-4:00pm
Minneapolis Convention Center
Free (including lunch and bus pass!)

Sign up for part or all of the City’s upcoming Community Connections Conference.  This free, public event brings together residents of Minneapolis, community groups, neighborhoods and decision-makers to connect, learn and address community issues. A fabulous lunch from local restaurants is provided free along with free bus passes to the event.

Learn more, check out the breakout sessions, and register for the conference at minneapolismn.gov/ncr/conf/.

Lake Harriet Kite Festival

Saturday, January 25
12:00pm-4:00pm

Kites of all shapes, sizes, colors, and themes will fly over frozen Lake Harriet. Other fun family activities at the festival include ice fishing,  snowshoeing, and a marshmallow roast. Click here to learn more.

Art Shanty Projects 2020

Saturdays and Sundays | 10am-4pm
Now – February 9
Bde Unma / Lake Harriet

Check out this year’s Art Shanty Projects at artshantyprojects.org/. Suggested donation $10-20. No one turned away.