Category Archives: School

June 6, 2020 eNews

A Message from the ANA:

Last week, racial slurs were found on the skate park at Armatage Park. It’s unclear whether this was inspired by recent events surrounding the murder of George Floyd or if the timing was coincidental. Regardless, it was a despicable act and the ANA board fully condemns such cowardly and inhumane behavior. It is our hope that the perpetrators of this reprehensible act will have the courage to take a long, hard look at themselves and find the will to change.

We strive to be a community that is welcoming and supportive of all, particularly our neighbors who identify as Black, Indigenous or People of Color. We recognize the systems in our city that have long harmed communities of color and we as a neighborhood are committed to working toward equity.

Community Safety Updates

Register to Run for the ANA Board by June 8

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

Members of underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to run for the board, including renters, seniors, residents with disabilities, and residents who identify as LGBTQ or BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color). Learn more about what’s involved and register to run by June 8 at armatage.org/2020boardelection/

Community Conversation: June 9

Tuesday, June 9
8:00-9:00pm
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/502813335

Please join us from 8:00-9:00pm this Tuesday, June 9 for an open conversation on how Armatage can learn from recent events and where we go from here to be more equitable and inclusive. (Our original topic for this month’s Happy Hour was brainstorming community projects that could be funded by a Mini Grant, but there is a lot to discuss and process after the last couple weeks in our community.)

Armatage Annual Meeting

Tuesday, June 16
7:00-8:30pm
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89815019195

Join your neighbors for a virtual Armatage Annual Meeting on Zoom. Connect with State Representative Jamie Long, City Council Member Linea Palmisano and County Commissioner Marion Greene who will each provide updates with time for questions, win a gift card to a local business, and hear board election results.

Online Board Election: June 9-16

This year’s Armatage Board Election will be held online from June 9 through June 16 at 7:30pm. All Armatage residents 18 years and older and designated business representatives are able to vote in the election through an online form that will be posted at armatage.org on June 9. Please see above for more details on running for election!

Armatage Neighborhood Art Journal

We need art more than ever. Please share pictures of what you and your family members have done to express yourselves creatively by June 30. We will assemble your submissions into a journal to document this moment of time in Armatage.

A free pdf of the art journal will available to download at armatage.org/art and we will possibly feature your submission in ANA communications about this project or in a future community mural. Check out submission guidelines and an awesome video about this project at armatage.org/art/


Emergency Rental Assistance Available

Hennepin County has extended its emergency rental assistance program to include residents of Minneapolis. Learn more and apply at https://www.hennepin.us/residents/human-services/emergency-rental-covid19 Please share widely!


Free Meals for Kids App & MPS Food Distribution Extended

Minneapolis Public Schools has extended their no-contact weekly food distribution program through at least July 24 and added a M-F free food distribution site at Longfellow Park. Boxes of food are free for all children 18 and under, whether they attend a MPS school or not. Check out the updated food distribution schedule here and see pick-up details, menu and heating instructions, and FAQs on the MPS free food distribution site here.

You can also download Hunger Impact Partners‘ Free Meals for Kids app on the App Store or Google Play to find and access free meals at nearly 400 schools and other sites across Minnesota for families and children in need.

Vote by Mail Information

Thinking about voting by mail this year? Sign up now to get Absentee ballots for the August primary and November general election mailed directly to you. Once you register to vote or check your voter registration, it takes just a couple minutes to request ballots. Your ballots will arrive approximately six weeks before each election with postage-paid envelopes for return.

Register to vote or update your registration here
Request an Absentee Ballot here


Donate Homemade Face Masks for Mask Drive Mondays

Minneapolis residents can deliver homemade masks to their local fire station from 10:00am-2:00pm every Monday beginning June 8 for Mask Drive Mondays.  Our closest fire stations are at 2810 W 50th St and 5410 Nicollet Ave S.

Please plan to stay 6 feet away from others when dropping off your donation. The City of Mpls will distribute the donated masks throughout Minneapolis to residents, organizations and businesses that are most in need.

Learn more about the Minneapolis Mask Ordinance here.

Help is Available

Check out our updated COVID-19 Resource Page for links to emergency rent assistance, unemployment, food shelves, maps of local businesses offering curbside pick-up, online kids’ activities, and details on our new indoor mask ordinance at https://armatage.org/covid19

Armatage Park Play Area

Playground Reopening Celebration

The Armatage Playground Reopening Celebration is rescheduled for Thursday, September 9 from 4:30-6:30pm.  We’re excited to share FREE popsicles and cold treats (donated by the ANA and Jonny Pops!) and celebrate the new play equipment with you!

Playground Construction

The Armatage Park Play Area construction started on June 1. The new play area should be completed and ready for use at the end of July. While the playground is under construction, we encourage neighbors to enjoy the Washburn Tot Lot playground at 5825 Washburn Ave S, Kenny Park at 58th & Fremont or, outside of school hours, to use the Armatage school playground. Sign up for project updates at bit.ly/armatagepark

The ANA set aside funds to contribute to park projects several years ago. On June 15, 2021 the board voted to allocate $27,645.21 from this park improvement budget to cover the funding gap for the playground so it can be completed on time this summer. This donation from the neighborhood made two of the three shade canopies (pictured above) and an accessible seesaw possible.

Armatage Play Area Plan Approved

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) approved the concept plan for a new playground at Armatage Park, which includes replacing the equipment and surfacing of the park’s existing play areas. The new play areas are designed for universal accessibility so they can be accessed, understood, enjoyed, and used to the greatest extent possible by all children regardless of size, ability, or disability.

In addition to an ADA-accessible swing, belt swing and two infant swings, the approved plan includes a tire swing, based on requests from the community and an MPRB commissioner.

Next Steps

It is anticipated that construction will occur this summer and the new play areas will be complete during the summer or early fall. Actual dates will be announced once a construction contract is approved.  Sign up for updates at https://bit.ly/armatagepark

Thanks for sharing your comments and ideas for our beloved park!

Play Area Surveys

The MPRB conducted two community surveys in 2020 on the Armatage Park Play Area improvements. Neighbors were invited to share their ideas, opinions and comment on proposed designs in May and again in September.  The final designs were shared at a public hearing on January 20, 2021 and approved by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board in February 2021. See designs and follow the playground construction process at https://bit.ly/ArmatagePark.

April 13, 2020 eNews

April 21 Meeting Agenda

6:30-8:00pm | Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/94646891472
All meetings are open to community members. Please allow time to sign in at the link above.

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • Annual Meeting & Board Elections
  • Virtual Happy Hours & Coffee Breaks
  • Social distancing engagement:
    • Collect art, photos, poems
    • More summer ideas
  • Other Business
  • President’s Report
  • Minutes – need to approve
  • Treasurer Report – financials emailed
  • Committee Updates:
    • Green Team:
      • Rain & Native Garden Program update
      • Virtual Organics Workshop – May 18
    • Mini Grants: Approve 2020 grant recipients
    • Complete Count: 2020 Census social media campaign
    • Summer Festival: alternatives
  • Coordinator Update:
    • Armatage Park playground construction

Virtual Neighborhood Happy Hour Tomorrow!

Tuesday, April 14
8:00-9:00pm
Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/502813335
Topic: Supporting Local Businesses

Join your neighbors on Zoom for a virtual Happy Hour. We know this is an isolating time for many so grab a drink or snack of some kind and come share all the ways we can support our local businesses.

Kids, pets and funny background filters welcome! Open to all, whether you live in Armatage or not. We recommend downloading the free Zoom app on your device.

Win a $50 Gift Card and Help Our Community Count in the Census

The 2020 Census is HERE and we need your help to ensure Minnesota gets its full share of funding for schools, health care, roads and more.

Help out and enter to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses:

  1. Take the 2020 Census: my2020census.gov
  2. Take Action. Choose from the following list…
    • Snap a selfie and share with hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Share a social media post with my2020census.gov/ and hashtags #WeCountMN #Census2020 #ArmatageTakesTheCensus
    • Reach out to a neighbor (or two!) about completing the Census using #socialdistancing. (This is a perfect chance to check in remotely).
  3. Visit armatage.org/2020census and enter your info for a chance to win one of four $50 gift cards to local businesses.

Thanks to support from the State of MN and the Minneapolis Foundation! All Minneapolis residents are eligible to participate.

COVID-19 Resources & Links

Do you need to…

  • Learn about all the new small business, nonprofit and individual emergency loan programs available,
  • Access Hennepin County assistance,
  • Find free food or meals,
  • Request help around your home (esp. if you’re a senior or have a disability),
  • Get more ideas to keep kids busy during the day,
  • Check the details of our extended #StayHomeMN order?

We couldn’t find these links all in one place so we’ve gathered these and MANY more at https://armatage.org/covid19 and update it daily. Thank you to everyone who has shared this resource with their block’s e-list or on social media. Please email additions to anacoordinator@armatage.org.


Transportation Action Plan Open House Today

Check out the draft Transportation Action Plan website to read the draft plan and provide feedback. The interactive website includes opportunities to provide your input on specific strategies and actions during the public comment period, which is extended until May 22.

Attend the Online Open House TODAY, Monday, April 13, from 4:30-5:30pm on the Minneapolis Facebook page to hear about your plan, give input, and interact in real time.


Updated Comprehensive District Design Plans

Minneapolis Public Schools has released its final draft for the Comprehensive District Design. The updated plans outline changes to community school boundaries, magnet programs like Armatage Montessori, school pathways, special education, and more.

Community members can view the plans at https://www.cdd.mpls.k12.mn.us/ in advance of the School Board’s scheduled vote on May 12. If you would like to submit a  comment on the plans, please visit https://board.mpls.k12.mn.us/public_comment for detailed instructions. Voicemails will be played during virtual board meetings.


Last Chance to Comment on the SW Parks Master Plan

The comment period for the Southwest Service Area Master Plan ends on April 25, 2020. With park buildings now closed, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw to view and comment on the plans.

https://www.nrpa.org/contentassets/e8a6e296777f473f9859cc482e5e7d7b/covid19-urban-parks-1000.jpg

Park Event and Facility Closures through August 31

ICYMI, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board made the difficult decision to cancel all park/neighborhood events and close recreation centers, restrooms, pools and beaches through August 31. Parks, trails, athletic fields and courts, parkways, dog parks, and golf courses will remain open.  Read the full list of what’s open, closed and canceled here.

The ANA is working on ways to support the neighborhood this summer without our usual events.  In the months to come, [lease stay safe while enjoying parks and trails with these tips from the MPRB:

  • Stay six feet apart – if you are able to, please move aside for families with young kids, seniors, and people with disabilities.
  • No group sports, play dates, or activities
  • Don’t drive across the city or metro to visit popular parks
  • Use parks in moderation
  • Don’t visit parks or trails if you feel sick or have symptoms like a fever, runny nose and/or sore throat

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/

December 12, 2019 eNews

December 17, 2019 Agenda

  • Welcome & Introductions
  • Park Update
  • Chili Cook-off and Fire & Ice event
  • ANA 2020 Planning
  • Staffing Contracts
    • Coordinator
    • Accountant
  • President’s Report
  • Minutes – approved via email
  • Treasurer Report – financials emailed
  • Committee Updates:
    • Mini Grants 2020 Round
  • Adjourned


Snow is falling today! Your neighbors, people pushing strollers or using wheelchairs, and the many people in Minneapolis who walk thank you for keeping our sidewalks safe and accessible!

In Minneapolis, we are required to clear sidewalks after the end of a snowfall within:

  • 24 hours for homes and duplexes
  • Four daytime hours for apartment and commercial buildings (daytime hours begin at 8 am)

Get all your snow removal questions answered here and pick up free sand at the Public Works building at 6036 Harriet Ave S.

Supplies Needed for the Crisis Nursery

While the ANA didn’t host a Tree lighting event this year, the annual neighborhood-sponsored holiday lights are up in Armatage Park along the east side of the building.

You can still drop off new, unopened formula, diapers, pull-ups, children’s toiletries, new with tags clothing and more to benefit the Greater Twin Cities Crisis Nursery now through December 20. Check out the Crisis Nursery’s full donation wish list here and look for a donation bin in the lobby of the Armatage Rec Center.

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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.


Cold Weather Resources

Resources are available for Minnesotans who struggle to afford their heating bills. The Cold Weather Rule, which went into effect last month, helps protect people from having their heat shut off when they need it the most. There are also energy assistance programs to help renters and homeowners pay for heating costs and furnace repairs.

More information about the Cold Weather Rule is available here, and you can read more about the Energy Assistance Program here. Please share this information with family, friends, and neighbors.


The City of Minneapolis is now accepting applications for the Minneapolis 4d Affordable Housing Incentive Program, which helps property owners obtain property tax reductions for agreeing to keep a portion of rental units affordable for 10 years.

Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis with a final deadline of January 8, 2020. Property owners are encouraged to apply early. Learn more about the 4d Affordable Housing Incentive Program here.


Take MnDOT’s 35W@94 Outreach Survey

Take the community engagement survey to let MnDOT know how their team is doing on community engagement for the 35W@94 project and how they can improve for 2020. Thanks in advance for your feedback!

For translated surveys in Spanish, Somali or, Hmong, visit the project website.

New Hennepin County Deconstruction Incentives

Planning some home remodeling? Hennepin County will begin offering deconstruction incentives for both homeowners and developers to reduce the amount of reusable or recyclable building materials in our waste stream.

The deconstruction incentive program will provide up to $5,000 per project for the complete removal or major renovation of residential properties, offsetting some of the costs associated with utilizing deconstruction techniques versus traditional demolition. To be eligible, structures must be built before 1950 and the area to be renovated must be at least 250 square feet.  Much more info is to come, but read the preliminary details on the county’s website here.

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.

October 3, 2019 eNews

Sign Up for Armatage Litter Be Gone Clean-up

Saturday, October 5
9:00-11:00am
Meet at Book Club (5411 Penn Ave S)

Join the Armatage Green Team to help clean up our neighborhood streets and sidewalks as part of the citywide Litter Be Gone events! This is a perfect volunteer opportunity for children, teens and adults. Plus all volunteers will get 50% off food thanks to the generous folks at Book Club Restaurant after the event!

Learn more and sign up at https://forms.gle/2JR9BvkLATXobqrw9  Huge thanks to Book Club for their support!  In case of heavy rain we’ll push to October 12.

Funding for Neighborhood Organizations Expires in 2020

We need your help! Funding for neighborhood organizations is set to expire in 2020 and Minneapolis City Council is planning to vote soon on whether or not to continue funding neighborhood organizations, who provide many services to their communities including summer festivals, rain garden grants, micro grants, security rebates and more.

If you find value in these or other services provided by your neighborhood organization and would like funding to continue, please let City Council know with the sample letter at armatage.org/n2020

Vision Zero Plan – Comment through October 16

Traffic deaths and severe injuries are unacceptable. Together, we can make our streets safe for everyone. The draft Minneapolis Vision Zero Action Plan outlines steps the City will take in the next 3 years to make progress towards our goal to eliminate traffic deaths and severe injuries on our streets. Learn more and share your thoughts at www.visionzerompls.com.

The City is accepting comments on the draft Vision Zero Action Plan through October 16. You can share feedback online or join us for an open house:

Comprehensive District Design Survey

MPS invites anyone who has students enrolled at MPS schools to complete a survey that focuses on the student placement process. The deadline to complete the survey is October 7th. Click here to take the enrollment survey.

Stay tuned as there will be other opportunities to engage in conversations about the Comprehensive District Design process this fall. Broader input on Comprehensive Design elements will become available in October and throughout the school year.


Last Southwest Parks Master Plan Meeting

At its final meeting, the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) will finalize recommendations for each park (including Armatage Park, the Washburn Tot Lot and the 58th & Oliver Triangle). All meetings are open to community members. For more information on the project, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/sw

Community Advisory Committee Meeting #16 – Final Recommendations
Monday, Oct. 7, 5:30 – 8:30 pm (note the longer duration than previous meetings)
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center, 4055 Nicollet Ave S
Light dinner and passive children’s activities provided.

Change Matters – Sleep Matters

The Wedge and Linden Hills Co-ops have chosen My Very Own Bed as their October Change Matters partner. Change Matters is a register round-up program that promotes the work of local non-profits and invites shoppers to provide critical funding by rounding up their purchases.

My Very Own Bed provides new beds and linens to children in our community who would otherwise be sleeping on the floor or sharing a bed with a parent or sibling. We focus on beds for kids because of the amazing power of sleep to help kids thrive. Healthy sleep helps children fight off illness, enhances growth, improves self-regulation and stress control, and aids learning. We also believe that all children deserve at least a small, comfortable place to call their own.

In October, shoppers at the Wedge Co-op, Wedge Table, and Linden Hills Co-op will be asked to round up their purchases to support My Very Own Bed. Each $200 raised will provide front-door delivery of a new bed and dream kit (new, twin-sized sheets, blanket, mattress pad, pillow, and stuffed animal) to another child. The stores will also collect these dream kit items.

Questions? Reach out to info@myveryownbed.org.