MetLife Award Presented for Progress in EcoVillage

Post, photos, and video by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director.

The MetLife Foundation yesterday awarded Project for Pride in Living and the Minneapolis Police Department for their work in conjunction with the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council and many other partners in the EcoVillage.  Out of 720 applicants from across 48 states, we were one of only eleven recipients this year.  Steve Cramer of PPL said in his remarks that they had trouble putting together a design for the press release because there are so many partners that we weren't sure how to fit them all on one page.

Many of them are pictured here.

 After the presentation, the first new construction of the EcoVillage, 400 31st Avenue North, was ready for its open house...(more pictures after the jump)

RT Rybak with "The Polish Lady," longtime resident Valeria Golebiowski

Chief Dolan and Inspector Martin receiving the MetLife award.

 The hard work and dedication of Inspector Martin (as well as Lieutenants Limback and Hiemerl and countless others at the 4th Precinct) were crucial to the success of the EcoVillage.  Martin had hoped to avoid the limelight, but Dolan insisted that he be recognized.  "That's an order," Dolan said.

CM Hofstede congratulating Valeria and a prospective new owner.

Of course there was delicious food.

 And a few photos from the inside of the EcoVillage house:

Caveat Emptor:  Prospective buyers should be aware that press conferences touting the amazing success stories right in front of your house may be a frequent occurrence.

We've been saying this a lot in Hawthorne lately, but thanks again to our dedicated residents and partners for contributing to this amazing success story.