Category Archives: Safety

July 15, 2021 eNews

July 20 Meeting Agenda

All are welcome to join next week’s OUTDOOR meeting at Armatage Park! Please bring a chair if possible and plan to distance. In case of rain, our meeting will shift to Zoom. Register for the back-up Zoom link at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Armatage Equitable Engagement Fund and Plan Modification – Aryca Myers and Bob Cooper, City of Minneapolis
  • Safety Update – Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Bookkeeping Candidate: Claire King – Judy Vecere, Treasurer
  • Equitable Engagement Plan Edits (Due Sept 1)
  • Coordinator Report:
    • Armatage Playground Celebration
    • Fall Programs and Newsletter Content:
    • Volunteers to Draft Fundraising Ask
  • Committee Action Needed:
    • Community Engagement: Funds for Aug 14 Event
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach: Funds for Sep 25 Event
    • Green Team
  • New Business

Summer Food Truck Night

Get ready for another Armatage neighborhood Food Truck Night! Five fabulous food trucks will be in the Armatage parking lot to take distanced orders. Enjoy live music from local band Unicorn! Swing by the ANA table for art activities, free kids books generously donated by Jump! and an All Are Welcome Lawn Sign. Bring your blanket or chairs and find a spot in the park to picnic.

More info including COVID-19 safety info is at armatage.org/summer-food-truck-night/

Household Hazardous Waste Events

Hennepin County is collecting household hazardous waste for residents to safely and properly dispose of unwanted household and lawn and garden products including paints, chemicals, fluorescent bulbs, batteries and fuels.  Residents must wear masks and remain in their vehicles.

Upcoming events in Minneapolis:

  • 9:00am – 4:00pm on July 30-31: Anthony Middle School, 5757 Irving Ave. S.
  • 9:00am – 4:00pm on August 13-14: South High School, 3131 19th Ave. S.

Visit Hennepin County’s household hazardous waste collection event webpage to learn what items you can bring to the event, review safety guidelines, and see all 2021 events.

New Solid Waste & Recycling Disposal Guide

There’s a NEW Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling Disposal Guide in town!  The City of Minneapolis has an easy-to-use, searchable website to get all your recycling and disposal “where does this go?” questions answered quickly and easily. Check it out at www.minneapolismn.gov/resident-services/garbage-recycling-cleanup/disposal-guide/

Last Chance to Comment on Parks for All

Have you commented on the Parks for All Comprehensive Plan yet?  This week is your last chance before comment period ends this Sunday, July 18, 2021.

Your input is welcome whether you have been deeply involved in the planning process over the past two years or if you are hearing about this for the first time. There are numerous ways to learn about the plan and send feedback using the links below. Following the public comment period, the draft plan will be revised based on public input and presented to MPRB Commissioners for review and approval.

Share the Parks for All draft plan with your friends, family, neighbors or other networks using minneapolisparks.org/parksforalldraft or bit.ly/MPRBCompPlan.

Free the Deeds

Free the Deeds, an artist-driven initiative, is launching a city-wide project this month to build awareness of the history of racial covenants in housing in Minneapolis and to encourage action to repair the harm done by these covenants. Homeowners whose houses have a racial covenant will be encouraged to display a lawn sign in their yards that says “This house had a racial covenant” on one side and “Building equity, one deed at a time” on the other. Free the Deeds has been working with Armatage Reparations & Equity Action to launch this project.

All Minneapolis residents will have the chance to donate to down payment assistance for households who purchase homes through the African American Community Land Trust (AACLT), which focuses on significantly decreasing the historic racial disparities in the homeownership rate while increasing access to perpetually affordable homeownership in Minneapolis. Check out freethedeeds.org to learn more about what racial covenants were, how to find out if your home had one, and how to participate with this city-wide project.

National Night Out is August 3

National Night is just around the corner!  This year’s block events will likely look a little different due to COVID-19, but there are lots of ways to safely gather with your neighbors. Think about a BYO picnic dinner instead of a potluck, discuss safety guidelines (especially for neighbors who are not yet eligible to get vaccinated like children under 12), and offer activities that allow you to distance.

Apply here for your City of Minneapolis street closure permit by July 20. If your street isn’t eligible for closure, you can also host a neighborhood gathering in neighbors’ yards. Not sure if your block has a block leader? Contact our Crime Prevention Specialist, Jennifer Waisanen, at jennifer.waisanen@minneapolismn.gov and consider volunteering as a block leader. Learn more about block clubs at bit.ly/blockclubs

Block Leader Contact Info

We’re putting out another call for block leader contact information and need your help!  If you are an Armatage block leader and haven’t already done so, please send your name, address, email address, phone, and the block(s) that you represent to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

Currently, city block leader info can’t be shared or accessed by neighborhood organizations so we’re working to build our own list. Thanks to the MANY of you who have already sent in your info! Interested in learning more about block and apartment clubs and how they work? Visit bit.ly/blockclubs

Free Business Advertising in Armatage Welcome Bags

Are you an Armatage neighborhood business that would like to advertise for FREE? Consider providing content for our new neighbor Welcome Bags!

The reusable bags contain useful information on our neighborhood, community involvement, area businesses and local government. Your contribution can include menus, brochures on your business, gift cards, coupons, branded trinkets, or even just business cards! It’s totally free contribute items for the Welcome Bags and you can also consider a tax deductible cash contribution to our non-profit organization to help support the cost of producing the bags. Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org to contribute!

Thank you from the Armatage Community Engagement Committee. Learn more about the Welcome Bag program at armatage.org/programs/welcome-bags/   Pic of our ANA VP Kevin outside Café Cerés.

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display to spread the message that ALL are Welcome in Armatage. The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so your donation is tax deductible and eligible for employer matching contributions.

Signs + stakes are $20 each and your donation goes toward supporting the ANA’s work in our community. Order online at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ and, if you’re in the neighborhood, we’ll deliver your sign to your front yard. You can also find us at an upcoming in-person sale date at Armatage Park (weather permitting) – neighbors are encouraged to join meetings:

  • Tuesday, July 20 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting
  • Saturday, Aug 14 from 4:00-6:00pm at the Summer Food Truck Night

2021 Windom Community Turf Alternatives Garden Tour

Windom Alternative Turf Garden Tour: July 17

Our friends at the Windom Community Council will host a tour of turf alternative gardens in Windom on Saturday, July 17 from 9:00am-12:00pm! Come view tour front yards and chat with experts including Master Gardeners, a native plant expert from Wild Ones, staff from Metro Blooms, and a Naturalist.

The garden tour is self-guided. Social distancing is encouraged. The final location list is available at https://www.windommpls.org/2021-windom-turf-alternative-gardentour

Home Energy Squad & 0% Loan Programs

The Home Energy Squad helps homeowners increase energy savings and comfort throughout the year.  During a two hour visit, a crew of two energy experts will visit your home to conduct an assessment to reveal opportunities for energy savings and the installation of energy saving products such as LED bulbs, door weather-stripping, water savers and a programmable thermostat, at no extra cost. There is also the option of a no-cost virtual consultation.

To increase energy savings this summer, for a limited time Xcel Energy is offering FREE smart thermostats for customers that have central air and sign up for the AC Rewards program. To help with financing energy efficiency upgrades Minneapolis residents can also take advantage of a 0% loan program. Recently the loan term increased to 10 years and the maximum increased to $20,000. To schedule an appointment with the Home Energy Squad, call 651-328-6220 or visit mncee.org/hes

Take the Hennepin County Natural Resources Survey

We all play a role in protecting our natural resources, and Hennepin County needs to hear from you as they update the Natural Resources Strategic Plan. The updated plan will seek to better align with new county initiatives, shifting demographics, and changing landscapes. This is the first opportunity to incorporate the county’s climate and racial equity priorities into the foundation of the plan, and they will be seeking input from the community throughout the year-long plan development process to ensure your values and priorities are reflected.

Take the survey

Take Hennepin County’s survey here by August 1, 2021, to help shape priorities and let them know how you would like to be engaged in the update of the plan.

July 8, 2021 eNews

Summer Food Truck Night

Get ready for another Armatage neighborhood Food Truck Night! Five fabulous food trucks will be in the Armatage parking lot to take distanced orders. Enjoy live music from local band Unicorn! Swing by the ANA table for art activities, free kids books generously donated by Jump! and an All Are Welcome Lawn Sign. Bring your blanket or chairs and find a spot in the park to picnic.

More info including COVID-19 safety info is at armatage.org/summer-food-truck-night/

National Night Out is August 3

National Night is just around the corner!  This year’s block events will likely look a little different due to COVID-19, but there are lots of ways to safely gather with your neighbors. Think about a BYO picnic dinner instead of a potluck, discuss safety guidelines (especially for neighbors who are not yet eligible to get vaccinated like children under 12), and offer activities that allow you to distance.

Apply here for your City of Minneapolis street closure permit by July 20. If your street isn’t eligible for closure, you can also host a neighborhood gathering in neighbors’ yards. Not sure if your block has a block leader? Contact our Crime Prevention Specialist, Jennifer Waisanen, at jennifer.waisanen@minneapolismn.gov and consider volunteering as a block leader. Learn more about block clubs at bit.ly/blockclubs

Block Leader Contact Info

We’re putting out another call for block leader contact information and need your help!  If you are an Armatage block leader and haven’t already done so, please send your name, address, email address, phone, and the block(s) that you represent to us at anacoordinator@armatage.org

Currently, city block leader info can’t be shared or accessed by neighborhood organizations so we’re working to build our own list. Thanks to the MANY of you who have already sent in your info! Interested in learning more about block and apartment clubs and how they work? Visit bit.ly/blockclubs

Free Business Advertising in Armatage Welcome Bags

Are you an Armatage neighborhood business that would like to advertise for FREE? Consider providing content for our new neighbor Welcome Bags!

The reusable bags contain useful information on our neighborhood, community involvement, area businesses and local government. Your contribution can include menus, brochures on your business, gift cards, coupons, branded trinkets, or even just business cards! It’s totally free contribute items for the Welcome Bags and you can also consider a tax deductible cash contribution to our non-profit organization to help support the cost of producing the bags.

Thank you from the Armatage Community Engagement Committee. Learn more about the Welcome Bag program at armatage.org/programs/welcome-bags/   Pic of our ANA VP Kevin outside Café Cerés.

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display to spread the message that ALL are Welcome in Armatage. The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so your donation is tax deductible and eligible for employer matching contributions.

Signs + stakes are $20 each and your donation goes toward supporting the ANA’s work in our community. Order online at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ and, if you’re in the neighborhood, we’ll deliver your sign to your front yard. You can also find us at an upcoming in-person sale date at Armatage Park (weather permitting) – neighbors are encouraged to join meetings:

  • Saturday, July 10 from 10:00-11:00am at our Safety Equity & Outreach meeting
  • Tuesday, July 20 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting

City Council Adopts American Rescue Plan Spending

The Minneapolis City Council voted July 2 to approve the first round of American Rescue Plan funding for the City of Minneapolis. The approved $102 million in funding features a strong emphasis on economic recovery, affordable housing, and community safety measures while piloting new programming like a Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) Pilot.

The majority of the $102 million will be distributed beginning in August 2021. Mayor Frey will put forward his proposal for allocating the remaining approximately $169 million later this year.

View the final approved funding plan.

See details of the impacted programs.

Fall Park Registration is Open

Registration is now open for fall activities, programs, and sports through the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board!  Check out youth programs and activities here.

There are also tons of adult sports league options to check out. Don’t have a team? Sign up as a Free Agent. Looking to make some extra cash? Consider becoming an adult sports official!

2021 Windom Community Turf Alternatives Garden Tour

Windom Alternative Turf Garden Tour: July 17

Our friends at the Windom Community Council will host a tour of turf alternative gardens in Windom on Saturday, July 17 from 9:00am-12:00pm! Come view tour front yards and chat with experts including Master Gardeners, a native plant expert from Wild Ones, staff from Metro Blooms, and a Naturalist.

The garden tour is self-guided. Social distancing is encouraged. The final location list will be coming soon at www.windommpls.org/2021-turf-to-alternative-garden-tour

Home Energy Squad & 0% Loan Programs

The Home Energy Squad helps homeowners increase energy savings and comfort throughout the year.  During a two hour visit, a crew of two energy experts will visit your home to conduct an assessment to reveal opportunities for energy savings and the installation of energy saving products such as LED bulbs, door weather-stripping, water savers and a programmable thermostat, at no extra cost. There is also the option of a no-cost virtual consultation.

To increase energy savings this summer, for a limited time Xcel Energy is offering FREE smart thermostats for customers that have central air and sign up for the AC Rewards program. To help with financing energy efficiency upgrades Minneapolis residents can also take advantage of a 0% loan program. Recently the loan term increased to 10 years and the maximum increased to $20,000. To schedule an appointment with the Home Energy Squad, call 651-328-6220 or visit
mncee.org/hes

Take the Hennepin County Natural Resources Survey

We all play a role in protecting our natural resources, and Hennepin County needs to hear from you as they update the Natural Resources Strategic Plan. The updated plan will seek to better align with new county initiatives, shifting demographics, and changing landscapes. This is the first opportunity to incorporate the county’s climate and racial equity priorities into the foundation of the plan, and they will be seeking input from the community throughout the year-long plan development process to ensure your values and priorities are reflected.

Take the survey

Take Hennepin County’s survey here by August 1, 2021, to help shape priorities and let them know how you would like to be engaged in the update of the plan.

Red Hot Art Events

Our friends at the Stevens Square Community Organization are holding 20 events across Stevens Square-Loring Heights from June to October that are free and open to all. That’s 20 chances to eat, dance, play, connect, and enjoy art all summer long! Visit https://www.stevenssquare.org/redhotart to learn more.

June 24, 2021 eNews

4th of July Fun at Armatage Park

For 2021 the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is planning a series of Fourth of July events at neighborhood parks and regional parks around the city, including at Armatage!

Between 11:00am and 1:00pm on July 4, stop by Armatage Park for a free creation from on-site balloon artists. See the full list of events at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/red_white_and_boom/

Tangletown 4th of July

Our friends at the Tangletown Neighborhood Association are also holding their annual 4th of July Celebration from 11:00am – 2:00pm at Fuller Park (4800 Grand Ave S) with live music from the Roe Family Singers and food trucks including Finer Meats & Eats, Cafe Ena, Cairo Cafe, and 9-Yum-Yum Ice Cream Truck! Local businesses will be present with activities, giveaways, and more. Bring your lawn chairs and picnic blankets, pick up some food from one of our vendors, and enjoy live music. Learn more at https://tangletown.org/4th/

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display to spread the message that ALL are Welcome in Armatage. The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so your donation is tax deductible and eligible for employer matching contributions.

Signs + stakes are $20 each and your donation goes toward supporting the ANA’s work in our community. Order online at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ and, if you’re in the neighborhood, we’ll deliver your sign to your front yard. You can also find us at an upcoming in-person sale date at Armatage Park (weather permitting):

  • Saturday, July 10 from 10:00-11:00am at our Safety Equity & Outreach meeting
  • Tuesday, July 20 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting

Be Safe with Fireworks and Keep 911 Open for Emergencies

Fourth of July fireworks are part of Independence Day celebrations, and the noise complaints and safety issues they can generate lead to high call volumes at 911 call centers across the country.

Minneapolis Fireworks Rules

  • Your fireworks must be nonexplosive. Examples of approved fireworks include sparklers, cones, and snakes
  • Use your fireworks on your own property.
  • Do not use your fireworks on public property, including roads, alleys, schools, parks

When to Call 911

For fireworks-related issues that pose life safety threats or fire hazards, residents should call 911 for police, fire or medical help.  Call 911 if a person is injured by fireworks, airborne fireworks land on a building or wood area posing a fire risk, or the size of a fireworks gathering and unruly behavior beginning to pose a threat to others.

Make Noise Reports Online or Through 311

Reducing the number of noise complaints to 911 will allow emergency calls to be answered as quickly as possible. Instead of calling 911 for Fourth of July noise reports, people are asked to make noise reports online, leave a message at 311 or use the 311 app. You can also text “fireworks” to 311898  to enter a fireworks complaint on the City’s website. Learn more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/report-an-issue/fireworks-complaint/

Armatage Playground Construction Update

Construction has begun and things are sure looking different at Armatage Park! The new estimate is that the play area should be completed and ready for use near the end of July.  The ANA Board voted to spend $27,645.21 of its Park Improvement funds to cover the funding gap for the playground so it can be completed this summer. This donation from the neighborhood will go toward two more shade canopies and an accessible seesaw.

Sign up for project updates at bit.ly/armatagepark and we will plan to hold a community celebration in August!

Need to Report Theft or Property Damage?

The City of Minneapolis is changing the way residents report non-violent, non-emergency theft and property damage that isn’t not in progress. Starting June 14, non-police City employees at 311 will take these reports from Minneapolis residents instead of 911 dispatching Minneapolis Police officers. You can report theft or property damage in two ways:

  • Submit an online report
  • Call 311 Monday – Friday between 8:00am and 5:30pm to make a theft or property damage report. If you need to make a report outside these hours or on holidays, you can submit online or leave a voicemail for a callback within 3 business days

If the theft or property damage is occurring at the time of call, call 911. This is a service change aligned with the City’s work around seeking alternatives to police response. The goal is to reduce administrative capacity for police and improve service experiences. Results of the program will be assessed throughout the year. Learn more about alternatives to police response.

Reduce Waste by Switching to Reusable Items

From bags to toys and household goods, plastics have only been around for the past 50 years. Our grandparents lived fine without them. Their health and our environment wasn’t affected by the manufacturing, use and disposal of plastics. Commit to switching one single-use plastic item in your home to a reusable alternative. Examples include:

  • Sandwich bags
  • Cling-wrap
  • Food storage containers

Your small action, plus the small actions of your friends, family and neighbors really adds up. Share a reusable alternative that you can’t live without. #LoveYourStuffMPLS. Visit the City’s website for more information on how to shop smart, love your stuff, and reduce waste

Cycle the Summer in Minneapolis Parks

Minneapolis Parks is hosting a series of smaller, bike-focused events throughout the summer for people of all ages, backgrounds and riding abilities to get on a bike! Learn more about the Cycle the Summer series and sign up for Cycling 101 youth events (August 25 will be at Armatage Park!) at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/cycle_the_summer/ 

Armatage Safety Rebates

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

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

Red Hot Art Events

Our friends at the Stevens Square Community Organization are holding 20 events across Stevens Square-Loring Heights from June to October that are free and open to all. That’s 20 chances to eat, dance, play, connect, and enjoy art all summer long! Visit https://www.stevenssquare.org/redhotart to learn more.

4th of July Events & Safety

4th of July Fun at Armatage Park

For 2021 the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is planning a series of Fourth of July events at neighborhood parks and regional parks around the city, including at Armatage!

Between 11:00am and 1:00pm on July 4, stop by Armatage Park for a free creation from on-site balloon artists. See the full list of events above and more info at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/red_white_and_boom/

Be Safe with Fireworks and Keep 911 Open for Emergencies

Fourth of July fireworks are part of Independence Day celebrations, and the noise complaints and safety issues they can generate lead to high call volumes at 911 call centers across the country.

Minneapolis Fireworks Rules

  • Your fireworks must be nonexplosive. Examples of approved fireworks include sparklers, cones, and snakes
  • Use your fireworks on your own property.
  • Do not use your fireworks on public property, including roads, alleys, schools, parks

When to Call 911

For fireworks-related issues that pose life safety threats or fire hazards, residents should call 911 for police, fire or medical help.  Call 911 if any of the following occur:

  • A person is injured by fireworks
  • Airborne fireworks land on a building or wood area posing a fire risk
  • The size of a fireworks gathering and unruly behavior beginning to pose a threat to others

Make Noise Reports Online or Through 311

Reducing the number of noise complaints to 911 will allow emergency calls to be answered as quickly as possible. Instead of calling 911 for Fourth of July noise reports,

  • Make noise reports online,
  • Call and leave a message at 311
  • Use the 311 app
  • Text “fireworks” to 311898  to enter a fireworks complaint on the City’s website.

Learn more at https://www.minneapolismn.gov/report-an-issue/fireworks-complaint/

June 17, 2021 eNews

June 15 Meeting Recap

Thank you to everyone who attended our first outdoor meeting this week at Armatage Park!  Project Designer Francisca Pass gave an update on the Armatage Playground construction, which hit a couple delays and should now wrap up at the end of July. The ANA Board voted to spend $27,645.21 of its Park Improvement funds to cover the funding gap for the playground so it can be completed this summer. This donation from the neighborhood will go toward two more shade canopies and an accessible seesaw.

The Board also approved an amended budget for its 2021 Community Participation Program funding from the City of Minneapolis, discussed its upcoming application for the City’s new Equitable Engagement Fund, and approved $250 for live music at our upcoming Aug 14 Summer Food Truck Night.

Thank You, Rachel!

A huge thank you to our outgoing Accountant (and Armatage neighbor!), Rachel Ireland-Henry! We are very grateful for Rachel’s years of service with the ANA and wish her all the best in her new adventures!  If you see her around the neighborhood, please tell her thank you!

The ANA is in the midst of a search for a new contract Accountant and will share a position description with the neighborhood soon. Email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org with questions.

Events to Commemorate Juneteenth

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board will host outdoor movies, discussions, music and family activities scheduled. Learn more at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/juneteenth/

Hennepin County Library also has a great line-up of online events and videos at https://www.hclib.org/Juneteenth

History of Juneteenth

Thank you to Hennepin County Library for the following history of Juneteenth, which is now a new City holiday in Minneapolis!

Juneteenth is said to be the oldest African American celebration of emancipation from slavery. The Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, but news of emancipation moved slowly. For the next 2½ years, enslaved Africans and Black abolitionists persevered in the struggle for freedom.

In Texas, formerly enslaved Africans celebrated their emancipation on June 19, 1865, and since then, Juneteenth has been remembered and celebrated as a holiday. From the late nineteenth century through today, typical Juneteenth celebrations across the country include parades, speeches by African American community leaders, singing of traditional songs such as “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” and dancing.

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display to spread the message that ALL are Welcome in Armatage. The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit so your donation is tax deductible and eligible for employer matching contributions.

Signs + stakes are $20 each. Order online at armatage.org/allarewelcomehere/ and, if you’re in the neighborhood, we’ll deliver your sign to your front yard. You can also find us at an upcoming in-person sale date at Armatage Park (weather permitting):

  • Saturday, June 19 from 10:00-11:00am
  • Saturday, July 10 from 10:00-11:00am at our Safety Equity & Outreach meeting
  • Tuesday, July 20 from 6:00-8:00pm at our Monthly Meeting

Affordable Camps through Minneapolis Parks

Sign up your child ages 7-14 for Olympics Celebration, Summer Survivor or Sports Sampler camps beginning Monday, June 21

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is excited to offer new Neighborhood Day Camps this summer! Themed, all-day, weeklong camps are available throughout the summer for the low cost of $10 per child.

Visit bit.ly/NMplsDayCamps to learn more and sign up!

Free Hennepin County Food Waste Prevention Webinars

You’re invited to an upcoming webinar to help you learn how to make the most of their food with tips and tricks for shopping, storing, and cooking.

This webinar is part of Hennepin County’s goal to raise awareness of how much food is wasted and help our residents with saving money, setting a good example, and having a positive impact on the planet.  The webinars are about an hour long with time for questions. They are free of charge, but registration is required. The registration link is here and you have three options to attend:

  • Wednesday, June 23rd from 7-8 p.m.
  • Thursday June 24th from noon-1 p.m.
  • Friday June 25th from noon-1 p.m.

Armatage Playground Construction Update

Construction has begun and things are sure looking different at Armatage Park! The new estimate is that the play area should be completed and ready for use near the end of July. Sign up for project updates at bit.ly/armatagepark and we will plan to hold a community celebration in August!

Cycle the Summer in Minneapolis Parks

Minneapolis Parks is hosting a series of smaller, bike-focused events throughout the summer for people of all ages, backgrounds and riding abilities to get on a bike! Learn more about the Cycle the Summer series and sign up for Cycling 101 youth events (August 25 will be at Armatage Park!) at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/cycle_the_summer/ 

Armatage Safety Rebates

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

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

Summer Movie – Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Ferris Bueller’s Day Off last weekend!  It was so wonderful to spend the evening outside with neighbors (and a hefty number of June bugs). There are many more opportunities to distance and enjoy free music and movies this summer: see the full list  at www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/music__movies/

Minnesota Rent Help

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

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

 

June 15, 2021 Agenda

June 15, 2021 Monthly Meeting Agenda

All are welcome to join our OUTDOOR meeting at Armatage Park! Please bring a chair or blanket if possible, plan to distance, and look for us near the front door of the Armatage Community Center. In case of rain, our back-up will be Zoom. Register at bit.ly/ANAmtgs

  • Welcome and Introductions (6:30pm)
  • Officer Elections for President and Treasurer (6:35pm)
  • Safety Update – Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist (6:40pm)
  • Armatage Park Playground Project- Francisca Pass, Project Designer (7:00pm)
    • Construction update
    • Funding gaps
    • ANA Park Improvement NRP Funds
  • President’s Report: City Contract Budget (7:30pm)
  • Treasurer’s Report: Accountant Search (7:40pm)
  • Coordinator Report: (7:50pm)
    • Bylaws/Policy Wizard
    • Equitable Engagement Plan
    • Nonpartisan Election Forums
  • Committee 3 Minute Updates: (8:00pm)
    • Community Engagement
    • Safety, Equity & Outreach
    • Green Team
    • Policy & Finance
  • New Business (8:15pm)

May 28, 2021 eNews

Get Your All Are Welcome Here Lawn Sign

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

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

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off at Armatage Park

Saturday, June 12 | dusk

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

Armatage Playground Construction Starts June 2

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

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

Get Involved on a Neighborhood Committee

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

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

Armatage Safety Rebates

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

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

Annual Meeting & Board Election Thank You!

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

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

Free Business Advertising in Armatage Welcome Bags

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

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

Minneapolis Mask Requirement is Still in Place

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

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

Minnesota Rent Help

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

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

Minnesota Vaccine Connector

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

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

All Are Welcome Here Lawn Signs

All Are Welcome in Armatage

Get your All Are Welcome Here lawn sign and proudly display it to spread the message that ALL Are Welcome in Armatage! We hope to create a sea of welcoming signs throughout the neighborhood and show support for our BIPOC neighbors.

Order a Lawn Sign

Place your order by clicking here (you can also scroll down to use the form below). We ask a suggested donation of $20 per sign/stake.

The ANA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization so your tax-deductible donation will support the ANA’s outreach and equity work in our community.

Send your donation through…

  • PayPal: https://paypal.me/armatagempls (please include your name, address, and “lawn sign” in the note).
  • Square: use this link.
  • Send a check to the Armatage Neighborhood Association (2500 W 57th St, Minneapolis, MN 55410).

Getting your lawn sign:

  • Armatage residents: you can get a lawn sign delivered to your front yard!
  • Outside Armatage: email us at anacoordinator@armatage.org to find a time to pick up your sign. We are unfortunately unable to ship signs.

Share on Social Media and Tag Us

Once you have your sign, please snap a picture, tag the ANA and share with the hastag #allarewelcomeinarmatage  We hope to create a collage of lawn sign pictures from across Armatage to share.

If you have any questions, please contact us at anacoordinator@armatage.org or 612.466.0296 Thank you in advance for your support!

May 6, 2021 eNews

Spring Tea & Blooms this Saturday!

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

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

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

Register to Run for the ANA Board by this Sunday

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

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

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

Support the Armatage Neighborhood Association

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

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

Register for the Armatage Annual Meeting

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

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

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

Online Board Election: May 11-18

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

Garden Tool Swap: May 8

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

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

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

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

Social Media – Pause Before You Post

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

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

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

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

Minnesota Rent Help

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

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

Armatage Welcome Bags

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

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

Get Involved on an Armatage Committee

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

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

Community Safety Workshops

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

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

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/