Hawthorne Voices

Ominous Graffiti on Block of Recent Tragic Shooting

2011-12-27T19:09:00.000-08:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council housing director. Photo by Constance Nompelis.

I wish I could have attended today's press conference, but I already began today calling in sick to work because of a stomach illness. That feeling was intensely compounded upon hearing of the tragic death of three-year-old Terrell Lamont Mayes Jr. Words simply cannot express the sorrow and outrage that we all feel. A baby is dead because someone had a stupid, foolish dispute that they had to settle with a gun. In a year wherein Minneapolis has seen the age of shooting victims get younger and younger, this is about as heartbreaking as it gets.

At the press conference, we were told "the community has a job to do." Even while we mourn, there will surely be hard work ahead for all of us. One small job we can do is to call in graffiti to 311 or remove it ourselves. Send the message to those who would do such a thing that these streets, these homes, this community does not belong to them. This is a good neighborhood and a strong community, and now is when we show what we're made of.

On the same block where this shooting occurred, there is a vacant house with various graffiti that appears to be gang-related. I wish I had seen this before and called it in, but a fellow north Minneapolis resident sent the picture my way. It may be hard to see, but one part of the defacement says "Haywood City." Many Hawthorne residents have quickly speculated that this refers to Haywood Eaton, another youth who was killed by gunfire in Hawthorne several years ago. Another possibility is that it refers to an alias of the infamous Evannor Haymon, who was the scourge of the Hawthorne EcoVillage and sometimes used "Haywood" as a last name.

Gang-related graffiti is troublesome anywhere it rears its ugly head, but on a block where this tragedy occurred, this particular tagging is especially ominous. We've called it in to 311 and asked that priority be given to its removal. As we pick up the pieces after this week's event, let us start by comforting those who grieve and then begin to take back our streets to show that this is not a place where such acts are tolerated in the least.

Hawthorne's Letter to the MPCA Regarding Northern Metals

2011-12-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

December 9, 2011

Re: Northern Metals Application for Major Permit Amendment

Dear Mr. Lynott, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Cc: Governor Mark Dayton, Senator Al Franken, Senator Linda Higgins, Senator Amy Klobuchar, Representative Keith Ellison, Representative Joe Mullery, Representative Bobby Joe Champion, 3rd Ward City Council Member Diane Hofstede

Hawthorne Neighborhood Council is adamantly opposed to the approval of Northern Metals Application for Major Permit Amendment as the more lax regulations they are seeking would have devastating effects on our community.

This organization, and the Hawthorne neighborhood at large, is on track for creating and maintaining healthier and greener lifestyles and practices. The Hawthorne Eco-Village is a testament to these efforts as we continue to encourage residents to build and live “green.” The pollutants and toxic particulates that stand to be released into our air if the amendment to Northern Metals’ current permit is granted can only damage a community that is not in a position to withstand or absorb any further harm. As Minnesota Congressman Keith Ellison stated in a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency in February 2011, “In low-income and diverse communities of color, the benefits of reducing toxic air pollution cannot be overstated as these communities already face higher than average rates of asthma, birth defects, and respiratory disease.” This statement was made in regards to mercury pollution, one of the toxins that Northern Metals currently emits and of which further relaxed standards would allow increased release. Furthermore, Northern Metals would like to be exempted from cleaning their surface areas should there be precipitation or snowfall in excess of one inch on any given day! Taking into consideration the duration and severity of our Minnesota winters, Northern Metals may not have to clean the area surrounding their operation on a regular basis for up to six months out of the year. This is not a reasonable request by any means.

Northern Metals acknowledges that there are some parks in the area (although they fail to make mention of all them). There are several in close proximity as well as two schools, a high rise dwelling for seniors and persons with disabilities, townhomes and single family homes that will undoubtedly be affected by the carcinogens and other harmful byproducts produced by Northern Metals. Residents of the nearby townhomes currently cannot even open the windows in their homes during the summer months due to the dust and the odors from Northern Metals. This situation will only worsen if the application to amend emissions and cleanup guidelines are relaxed. The area in which Northern Metals is located has been designated as a National Bird Fly Way. This fact has also been omitted from Northern Metals application. Further contamination from pollutants like mercury and hexavalent chromium (and the multitude of others detailed in their application) would be detrimental to supporting the wildlife that inhabits this area.

We understand that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will use comments received regarding this matter to determine if there is a need for an Environmental Impact Statement. We demand that this report be done!

The Mississippi River is an amenity that should be used, appreciated, and enjoyed by all residents of Minneapolis and walking and biking trails (especially the Grand Rounds Bike and Walking Path) have been developed for this purpose. Additionally, the Hawthorne neighborhood, along with several other North Minneapolis neighborhoods, has been working diligently to secure funding for a land bridge that would extend from 26th to 28th Avenues North and would connect North Minneapolis residents to the Mississippi River. If we are successful in this quest, this bridge as well as our walking and biking paths would actually abut Northern Metals’ facility and would end up exposing countless individuals to numerous poisons. Their application also does not appear to address the effects that additional emissions would have when considering prevailing winds that could significantly increase the areas potentially subject to contamination by Northern Metals’ increased output of toxins. The very fact that Northern Metals would like to extend their current hours of operation is reason enough for nearby residents to be concerned and angry as this would detract from their quality of life as they deal with additional noise and traffic. When you factor in the knowledge that an even greater amount of deadly chemicals will be released into our community it is beyond the scope of reason.

Economic development and success are very important to the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council, but it cannot come at the expense of our residents’ health. Virtually every plan for the Mississippi River being developed by the City of Minneapolis reflects the residents’ desire to move industry away from the river. The types of non-industrial businesses that we and other organizations are trying to attract to this area also reflect this trend. For example, Coloplast Industries produces medical supplies. How will an increase in toxic emissions affect their sterile standards?

We implore you to take our concerns into consideration as you review Northern Metals Application for Major Permit Amendment and deny their request regardless of the notion that their expected emissions may still fall within guidelines considered acceptable to the EPA.

If you have any questions, or would like additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

JoAnne KeltyBoard Chair

Hawthorne Calls for Strong Environmental Regulations Along Mississippi River

2011-12-09T11:51:00.001-08:00

Post and top photo by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Image from the Northern Metals Environmental Assessment Worksheet.

Northern Metals Recycling has applied for a permit to relax some environmental regulations at their site on Pacific Street and 28th Avenue North in Hawthorne. The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council strongly opposes lessening environmental and health protections in our community. The impact of such changes would be:

*       Additional air emissions

*       Increasing the air emissions limitation

*       Relaxation on emission standards

*       Increasing emissions used to extend outside the hours of Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Weekend & holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

There are many provisions within the above-linked environmental worksheet that give Hawthorne residents serious pause. Among them are:

Northern Metals has proposed to change the requirement to clean all primary roads, entrances,
internal roads, and exits once per day to a requirement to clean these areas “when necessary to
prevent particulate matter from becoming airborne.”

Instead, the Air Emission Permit will still require daily road sweeping and cleaning, but allows for exceptions when the roads are snow- or ice-covered, or if 0.1 inches of liquid precipitation fell in the last 24 hours. (p. 12)

We worry that "when necessary" is far too subjective and that minimal cleaning during periods of snow and ice could lead to pollution concerns for a site adjacent to the Mississippi River.

Also on page twelve of the report, Northern Metals is requesting that a whole host of tests regarding particulate matter be reduced in their frequency or eliminated altogether. We are gravely concerned about such diminished protections and support keeping them in place. The proposal would allow Northern Metals to shred auto hulks and greatly increase their allowed hours of operation.

Section 11 on page 15 of the document references minimal impact on wildlife (due to the industrial area surrounding the site) and the permit amendment would not cause any environmental or land use conflicts. While this may be presently true, it neglects to take into account the proposed redevelopment efforts underway through the Above the Falls master plan and the Mississippi Riverfront Design Initiative. A Farview land bridge would extend to the River with 28th Avenue North as its northern boundary, and would border the plant. Decreased environmental regulations and an increase in potential air and noise pollution are incongruous with the long-term development of the Mississippi River as a true community asset.

The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council is in the process of drafting a formal letter to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and will post it here upon completion. Comments to William Lynott (651-757-2542) must be received by December 14, 2011. From those comments, the MPCA will be taken into consideration when deciding whether to require an Environmental Impact Statement.

Hawthorne demands that such an assessment be done. We urge concerned residents throughout our neighborhood and Minneapolis as a whole to make that same demand of the MPCA. Please contact both Council Member Diane Hofstede and the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council (Jeff Skrenes or Alexandra Jasicki, 612-529-6033) with your concerns as well.

Hawthorne Receives Community Energy Services Award!

2011-11-04T10:57:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Photo and quoted items from the Center for Energy and Environment.

From CEE:

Hawthorne Neighborhood CouncilAwarded a $2,500 Grant!

The HawthorneNeighborhood Council (HNC) was awarded a $2,500 grant from the Center forEnergy and Environment and the McKnight Foundation on Tuesday, October 25^th,for placing 10^th in the participation grant challenge, with 8.26% ofeligible properties completing a home energy visit through Community EnergyServices (CES). HNC Housing DirectorJeff Skrenes was on hand to accept the award. The award was presented at the Community EnergyServices Award Ceremony where partnering neighborhood organizations andvolunteers were awarded over $45,000 in grants for their work with CES.

Since spring of2010, HNC has been a partner in the Community Energy Services program,providing over 40 home visits that have helped homeowners’ save energy andmoney in their homes. CES is stillavailable in Hawthorne and throughout Minneapolis, with now being a great timeto participate and prepare your home for winter. Please visit www.mnces.org for a list of upcoming presentations whereyou can learn how to save energy and money in your home and sign up for thehome energy visit for $30.

Comejoin over 4,000 Minneapolis homeowners already participating. For more information about Community EnergyServices or to view a list of Community Energy Service Award Recipients, visit www.mnces.org orcall (612) 219-7334.

From Jeff Skrenes:

This award was especially meaningful because many of the other recipients were from areas of the city with much higher rates of home ownership. The outreach and organizing efforts from Hawthorne community leaders and staff, and the strong partnership between Hawthorne and CEE, are exemplified in the success of this program.

Furthermore, one of the refrains we heard from our community after the home energy visits was that the basic services were helpful but access to funds that would help with bigger-ticket items like a furnace or boiler was still quite limited. In response to that concern, Hawthorne created a green rehab loan product. Property owners in Hawthorne can apply for up to $4,500 in assistance with home repairs that line up with Minnesota Green Communities guidelines. The assistance is a lien against the property, but has no interest or monthly payment and is forgivable over time. Contact Brenda Yaritz at CEE for more information or to apply.

To the Banks, Broadway, and Back - October 19

2011-10-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director, top photo originally used at www.northbynorthside.com, and reposted at the Twin Cities Daily Planet.

On Wednesday, October 19, Hawthorne leaders and partners will be meeting at the corner of 26th Avenue North and 4th Street North, near the Farview Park sign. We will walk down 26th towards the Mississippi River, and highlight the fact that the bike lanes diverge from sidewalks. The bike lanes take 26th to 2nd Street, then down to 22nd Avenue, and east to the Mississippi trails. The easiest continuous sidewalk route veers south on Washington instead of 2nd, and then across to the River at 22nd. Pedestrian access to the River becomes difficult as a result.

The second picture shows a staircase on the Northeast side of the River. Although we do have trails and a park on the north Minneapolis side, there are no paths or steps inviting people to come to the water's edge. We will discuss ways that the Mississippi is a wonderful amenity to Hawthorne and north Minneapolis, while also brainstorming ways to improve upon river access.

Come and join us at 5:30 on Wednesday!

Celebrate the EcoVillage Garden October 1, 3-6 p.m.

2011-09-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

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

On Saturday, October 1, Hawthorne will celebrate the first year of its community garden in the EcoVillage! The garden was featured on the Minneapolis parade of community gardens in August, and we'll have more of the delicious food, prepared and served fresh. Come and stop by anytime between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. for a great meal!In the videos above and below, EJAM organizer Harriet Oyera takes us on a quick tour of the garden.

The area in front of the garden is free for anyone to come by and take food.
Harriet finds a hot pepper that I claim as my own.
Harriet shows us some of the other vegetables growing in the garden.

Free Trees Still Available at EcoVillage Tree Nursery!

2011-09-28T12:25:00.000-07:00

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

Earlier this summer Hawthorne was able to assist several dozen households throughout NoMi with new trees after the tornado. Some trees are still left from that initial push, and the EcoVillage Tree Nursery has received several more trees as well.

We have:

11 Redmond Linden trees
9 Juniper trees
7 Autumn Brilliance trees
4 Greenspire Linden trees
2 Kentucky Coffeetrees

These are available to any homeowner in north Minneapolis, one per household, and they are all free. As an added bonus, there are some small spruce trees that were left at the site. The summer heat wave did a number on a few trees that might not make it through the winter. So if any talented arborist thinks they might be able to save one of those, we'll let you take a regular tree AND one of the ones in need of some tender, loving care.

Think about that: you get one tree for free already, and then a second tree also free of charge. That's an increase in the value of your acquisition of infinity percent. You won't find a deal like that anywhere else, guaranteed.

To make an appointment to pick up one of these trees, contact the Hawthorne office at 612-529-6033 x204, call me on my cell phone at 952-210-1086, or email me at jskrenes@hawthorneneighborhoodcouncil.org.

Tax Forfeited Properties in Hawthorne

2011-08-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

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

The city of Minneapolis has published a list of properties that the state of Minnesota or Hennepin county have taken through tax forfeiture. They are seeking community input regarding the potential acquisition or disposition of these properties. There are three options people can recommend for these properties:

That the city acquire the property if there is a developer interested in reuse.
That the property be withheld from the public market while a reuse is determined.
That the property be sold on the private market.

The city of Minneapolis is asking for public input on these properties by September 26, 2011. People can go to their respective neighborhood groups with recommendations or contact the city directly.

The letter explaining the process can be found here, and click on this link for a list of all properties citywide. To search for more information on the properties via the city of Minneapolis, click here, and to do the same at Hennepin county's website, click here.

There are twenty such properties in Hawthorne, and 2511 4th St N is pictured above. The other nineteen properties are after the jump...

2421 4th St N

2207 4th St N

2111 6th St N

2230 6th St N


413 26th Ave N

2814 Aldrich Ave N

2922 Aldrich Ave N

2923 Bryant Ave N

2901 Bryant Ave N

2811 Bryant Ave N


2803 Bryant Ave N

2814 Colfax Ave N


2814 Colfax Ave N

2914 Dupont Ave N

2922 Dupont Ave N

3111 Dupont Ave N

3115 Dupont Ave N

917 31st Ave N

902 31st Ave N

429 31st Ave N

2810 Emerson Ave N

2623 Dupont Ave N

Types of Trees Available from Tree Nursery

2011-06-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

Post and photo by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

On Saturday June 18 from 8 a.m. to noon, Hawthorne will have trees available on a first-come, first-served basis. The tree nursery is located at 404 31st Ave N. In order to be eligible for a tree, you have to be a property owner in north Minneapolis, and the tree must be placed within the community. Our preference is to give away trees to people affected by the tornado, but we're going on the honor system. Here are the trees we have available:

Autumn Brilliance - 10
Kentucky Coffeetree - 4
Redmond Linden - 12
Greenspire Linden - 5
Juniper - 7
Sugar Maple - 2
Blue Beech - 1
MN Redbud - 1

One of the Autumn Brilliance, as well as the Sugar Maples and the Blue Beech look to be in rough shape. I believe they're all alive, but those four trees need a home fast. Everything else is in good condition. I look forward to getting people trees on Saturday!

Tree Nursery Giveaway on Saturday June 18, 8 a.m. to Noon!

2011-06-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

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

In response to the huge demand for trees, Hawthorne held off on giving them away through word of mouth. Instead, we are opening the tree nursery this Saturday, June 11, from 8 a.m. to noon for trees on a first-come, first-served basis. The address of the nursery is 404 31st Ave N. There are currently 47 trees still available, but two of them look like they took second place in a Charlie Brown Christmas tree contest. (so they're probably dead, is what I'm getting at here)

A list of which trees are still available will be published shortly, but keep Saturday morning on your calendar, rain or shine!

EcoVillage Tree Nursery - 47 Trees and Counting

2011-06-06T16:26:00.000-07:00

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

For the past few years, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council has distributed free trees throughout north Minneapolis through our tree nursery in the EcoVillage. Late last week we received this year's shipment - a whopping seventy-nine trees! Given the damage in NoMi from the tornado, a decision was made to prioritize trees for those who lost one to the storm.

I announced our new shipment of trees at the Hawthorne Huddle and posted another announcement on the Minneapolis Tornado Watch Facebook page. Word spread like wildfire, and before any standardized method for distributing trees was set up, over thirty trees already found new homes.

In order to try and give people throughout north Minneapolis an equal chance at getting a free tree, we will schedule a time later this week or on the weekend when trees can be picked up on a first-come, first-served basis. The specifics of that announcement will be coming within the next 24 hours.

EcoVillage Home Featured on Minneapolis/St. Paul Home Tour!

2011-04-29T14:24:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Video from the Minneapolis Television Network.

The Hartzell family is one of the newest additions to the Hawthorne neighborhood, having purchased the first LEED-certified home in the EcoVillage last fall. Before they even closed, Mayor Rybak publicly welcomed them to Minneapolis, and now their home is on the Minneapolis/St. Paul Home Tour. Many new homeowners have been profiled in the NoMi blogosphere, to the point where we pretty much tell people that moving into the EcoVillage makes you a sort of local celebrity. That was said BEFORE this video was released.

I'd love to gush even more about what a great place Hawthorne, and the EcoVillage is to own a home, but the Hartzells do a great job of that in the video above. Instead, I'll quickly remind readers that we're building another similar house on the corner of 31st and 6th this summer. And if you buy a house anywhere in the Hawthorne neighborhood, you'll qualify for $5,000 in down payment assistance money through the Hawthorne Advantage program.

So take a look at the EcoVillage, and let us welcome you to the neighborhood!

Get $5,000 in Hawthorne Advantage Down Payment Assistance!

2011-03-29T15:43:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Photo from a Minnesota Public Radio article on the Hawthorne EcoVillage.

The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council recently revamped its down payment assistance program from a percentage of the sales price to a flat $5,000. Any owner-occupant purchasing a home in Hawthorne should inquire to CEE about qualifying for this assistance. The $5,000 is recorded as a lien on the home, although we will go behind virtually any other assistance program. The loan does not accrue interest and it is forgiven after ten years.

As an aside, it takes a while for each site that lists our down payment assistance to be updated, so even the CEE link references the old program. That will change shortly. And a special thanks goes out to a NoMi Realtor extraordinnaire, Constance Nompelis. Connie did several market analysis reports for the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council board and housing committee. These reports helped our neighborhood understand what the market was like in Hawthorne, and how we should construct an assistance program that was an appropriate response to housing conditions here. She provided this service as a volunteer for the community, and we are grateful for her help.

Come and check out home ownership opportunities in Hawthorne! We've got a great community and $5,000 in assistance for you.

A "Dream Home" Finally Worthy of the Nickname

2011-03-29T15:06:00.000-07:00

Before renovation.

Exterior after rehab

Living room/kitchen remodel

Instead of bedrooms like this...

Bedrooms are like this now.

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. First photo contributed by Alissa Luepke Pier, Hawthorne resident and project architect. Photos 2-4 and 6 from Aesthetic Eye Photography. Photo #5 by Jeff Skrenes, originally appearing on North by Northside.

Urban Homeworks continues to impress me. They took something as drab and dreary as a Dream Home - which even without the exterior that so many in NoMi find distasteful, brings about memories of yet another case of mortgage fraud in this community - and turned it into a house that people would be proud to live in. Much of the rehab can be attributed to the vision of local architect Alissa Luepke Pier, who designed the facade improvement and re-oriented the front door to create a more comfortable space.

The development project also reconfigured the second floor by removing one of the bedrooms and making the rest of the rooms a little more spacious. Urban Homeworks staff said that floor looked "too much like a dormitory" before they changed it up. I thought it compared more to a prison, but in all fairness, I've never been incarcerated, so maybe I'm being too negative towards prisons.

One aspect of this house that made it a viable rehab candidate is that it is what's often referred to as a "second generation Dream Home." The first round of Dream Homes were slab-on-grade, no basement, no garage, six bedrooms, and baseboard heat. This one at least had a full basement and a garage, making the other renovations much easier to work with. If anyone wants to see the property, it's at 2515 Irving Avenue North. The house has a family as its proud new occupants as well. If you see them in their yard, make sure to welcome them to NoMi! And thanks, Urban Homeworks!

CEE Expands Programs to Support Energy-Efficient Businesses

2011-03-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

Post and photo by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Housing Director

The Center for Energy and Environment has expanded their programs and they are now able to serve businesses throughout the city of Minneapolis and non-profits statewide. Click here for a matrix of programs.

Free Home Energy Visits Also Generate Funding for Neighborhoods!

2011-03-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Photos originally appeared on the Johnny Northside blog.

Hawthorne board member John Hoff was kind enough to allow me to document his home enegy visit from CEE. These free home visits include tips on how to make your house more energy-efficient, supplies and materials to make that happen, and information on access to more low-interest home rehab loans. In case this hasn't been emphasized enough, the visits and materials are FREE to owner-occupants. The only requirement is that recipients must first attend a workshop (which is ALSO free) put on by the Center for Energy and Environment. Here are the next two workshop dates:

Thursday, March 24, 6:00 pm
North Regional Library (1315 Lowry Ave N)

Thursday, March 31, 6:30 pm
Salvation Army (2727 Central Ave NE)

For more information, or to reserve a spot, contact Kyle Boehm at kboehm@mncee.org or 612-219-7334.

But wait, there's more! CEE and the McKnight Foundation have been generous enough to help fund a friendly cross-neighborhood challenge. There are various levels of awards given out for neighborhood participation. The more people participate, the greater award each neighborhood may be eligible for. So here's how it works for you as a Hawthorne resident: attend a free workshop about energy savings, get free materials that will make your home more energy-efficient, sign up for a free home energy visit where experts can give even more personal tips, AND participating can help fund your neighborhood organization.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up today?

Flier for upcoming workshops
McKnight Outreach Challenge flier

Hawthorne NRP Plan Vote Wednesday, February 9

2011-02-08T17:24:00.000-08:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Photos from HNC websites.

Please join us for a community meeting on Wednesday, February 9th, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Farview Park to vote on Hawthorne’s NRP Phase II plan. Approval of this plan will also reallocate some Phase I funds (mostly to Phase II strategies.) Your opinion and your vote is very important!

Lawmakers say "No" to Neighborhood cuts proposed by Mayor, City Council

2010-12-14T11:58:00.000-08:00

Media release from the Corcoran Neighborhood Organization, image from www.nrp.org. Editorial note: This post is the press release, largely unedited, from before last night's council meeting. Results of that meeting may differ slightly from some claims made below.

Emergency meeting draws 65 including 9 lawmakers, 2 City Council members

Find video and plicy analysis by the University of Minnesota further below

Minneapolis MN - 65 people including neighborhood leaders, 9 state lawmakers, and 2 City Council members from Minneapolis turned out to a meeting at Corcoran Park on Sunday, Dec. 12, despite a weekend snowstorm that buried cars, crippled transit, and collapsed the Metrodome.

The meeting was called to discuss a recent proposal by Mayor R. T. Rybak and the City Council to re-purpose Neighborhood Revitalization funds as "tax relief," a move that would require approval by the Legislature. The City Council voted on the proposal on Monday, Dec. 13, less than one week after the proposal was first made known to the public by an article in the Star Tribune.

Senator Ken Kelash, Chair of the Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) policy board, explained that while past mayors and city councils have tried to take control of Neighborhood funding, "this is the first time we've been ambushed, aand that's what this is--it's an ambush." Representative Joe Mullery called the City's proposal "improper and illegal," adding...

"it's amazing they took an action like this without working with us at all." Representative Karen Clark said she was "appalled" by the City's proposal, and by its "disproportionate impact on low-income communities and people of color." Sen. Scott Dibble, Sen. Patricia Torres Ray, Sen. Linda Higgins, Rep. Jeff Hayden, Rep. Phyllis Khan, and incoming Representative-elect Marion Greene were also on hand, as were Council Members Elizabeth Glidden and Cam Gordon. (Find video of the lawmakers' comments further below.)

When asked if they would consider carrying the proposal in the 2011 Legislative session, none of the state lawmakers said they would be willing to carry the City's current proposal. Council Member Gordon published an opinion piece in the Twin Cities Daily Planet explaining his opposition.

"There are clear winners and losers" in the City's proposal to re-purpose Neighborhood funds as "tax relief," explained Maren McDonnell, president of the Harrison Neighborhood Association. "Neighborhoods with the most poor, people of color, and foreclosures lose, and the affluent neighborhoods win. North Minneapolis is going to lose over $3 million, but the average Northside household will save $14. That's not enough for cab fare." The cuts in Harrison, explained .McDonnell, include "first homebuying programs, rehab ptorgrams, and money for foreclosures." Residents from struggling Southside neighborhoods shared how their neighborhood would lose, too. Find University of Minnesota data and maps showing the impact of the cuts.

In its recent deliberations on the future of neighborhood funding, City leaders asserted that "the capacity to organize at the neighborhood level is a basic city service for which the City will provide funding of approximately $3,000,000 per year to neighborhood organizations." But critics view the latest City proposal as evidence of the intention to transfer dollars and capacity to the City's new Neighborhood and Community Relations Department. "The Mayor and City Council clearly and finally publicly have expressed their desire to eliminate NRP and transfer its resources to the City," wrote NRP Director Bob Miller in a Dec. 9 letter to neighborhood leaders. Sen. Kelash noted that the new City department has 12 staff, an overlap of administration representing "a huge amount of inefficiency."

At the Dec. 12 meeting, Miller explazined that the Neighborhood cuts "would have no impact on (lowering) 2011 property taxes." Rep. Clark clarified, saying, "It would have a delayed impact on property taxes but an immediate impact on neighborhoods."

JoAnne Kelty from the Hawthorne neighborhood explained how Neighborhood funds have leveraged additional resources. "We worked for ten years, fighting crime, calling 9-1-1, and working with housing developers. Neighbors were ready to leave but because of NRP we were able to commit time and resources. We have made a difference. Jimmy Carter (representing Habitat for Humanity) even came out to build houses with us. And all the elected officials came out to claim credit and get their picture taken with the President. Now they are cutting the funding we need to keep the work going."

"I think one thing our legislators made really clear today, is how important they think the work neighborhoods do across Minneapolis [is], and that the City should be looking at all of the options for property tax relief, not just neighborhoods," said Lyndale Neighborhood Association Executive Director Mark Hinds. At the meeting, Hinds presented a recent history of neighborhood funding that showed how neighborhood organizations have already shared in the City's budget cuts.

"Under the Mayor's 2009 City Budget plan," Hinds explained, "the Mayor had recommended $8 million in funding for neighborhood programs, and this amount was reduced to $5.1 million for the 2011 budget. Under the proposal released last week," Hinds continued, "new funding for neighborhoods would be cut to $0 for 2012 and 2013."

The Dec. 12 meeting was organized by the Corcoran Neighborhood Organization on behalf of leaders from the Beltrami, Cedar-Isles-Dean, Central, Como, Cooper, Corcoran, Diamond Lake, Downtown East, Downtown West, Elliot Park, Ericsson, Field, Folwell, Hale, Harrison, Hawthorne, Hiawatha, Holland, Howe, Jordan, Keewaydin, Kenny, King Field, Lind-Bohanon, Linden Hills, Longfellow, Loring Park, Lowry Hill East, Lyndale, Lynnhurst, McKinley, Minnehaha, Marcy-Holmes, Marshall Terrace, Morris Park, Near North, Northeast Park, Northrop, Page, Phillips East, Phillips Midtown, Phillips West, Powderhorn Park, Prospect Park, Regina, St. Anthony West, Seward, Shingle Creek, Standish, Stevens Square-Loring Heights, Tangletown, Waite Park, Webber-Camden, Wenonah, Whittier, Willard-Hay, and Windom Park neighborhoods.

Video footage of the meeting is available at the following links:
Maren McDonnell: "There are clear winners and losers"
Linda Higgins and Karen Clark comments
Ken Kelash comments
Joe Mullery and Scott Dibble comments
Linda Higgins and Elizabeth Glidden comments
Marion Greene comments

At this time, additional clips are being published. Please check this webpage for additional footage.

Find University of Minnesota data and maps showing the impact of the cuts.

PPL Needs EcoVillage Volunteers This Week!

2010-11-03T13:32:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director, photo contributed by PPL.

PPL Building Project-Hawthorne EcoVillage
Support efforts in North Minneapolis to build and renovate affordable housing for those in need in the community in response to the foreclosure crisis. PPL’s Housing Development dept. is renovating a house at 3023 N. 4th St. as part of the Hawthorne EcoVillage project. Volunteers needed! Construction/carpentry experience welcome but not required.

Where: 3023 N. 4th St., Minneapolis
When: Thursday 11/4, 9-5
Friday 11/5, 9-5
Saturday 11/6, 9-1

Construction experience is welcome but not required. Skilled supervision, tools, materials and snacks provided. Volunteers are asked to bring a bag lunch and work gloves.

For more information or to sign up, please contact Julie Huck, PPL Volunteer Mgr., at 612-455-5111 or email Julie Huck.

Agenda for the November Hawthorne Huddle

2010-11-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

October 28, 2010

HAWTHORNE HUDDLE

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2010

To: Friends of the Hawthorne Huddle

At this month’s Hawthorne Huddle, we will learn about local youth development projects that get young people involved in urban farming/gardening, from the planning stages to managing its growth, harvesting and marketing the produce. These programs not only educate youth about the source of our food; more importantly, they provide development opportunities that can open up new avenues for their future. Representatives from local organizations will tell us about the programs they offer to the youth of our community and how we can become involved. Please join in the discussion; we welcome and encourage your input and ideas.

The Hawthorne Huddle will be held from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room at Farview Park, located at 621 29th Avenue North. A continental breakfast will be available at 7:15 a.m.

Sincerely,

Ellen Luger

A G E N D A

WELCOME Ellen Luger

SAFETY UPDATE Representative, Minneapolis Police Department 4th Precinct

MAIN PROGRAM TOPIC: YOUTH PROGRAMS--URBAN FARMING/GARDENING

Panelists:

Amanda Stoelb, West Side Program Director, Youth Farm and Market Project

Marilu Thomas, Executive Director, Redeemer Center for Life

Representative, University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum

ADJOURNMENT

Photos from President Carter's Visit to Hawthorne

2010-10-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council housing director. Group photo above taken by Pat Carney.

More photos from the day of President Carter's visit to Hawthorne after the jump...

All week long people were using Nice Ride bikes to come to the work site.

Photos from Day 1 of Habitat Week

2010-10-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

The first volunteers of the week!

At the beginning of the week, there was only a foundation at 430 30th Ave N.

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council housing director.

A technical, editorial note: Blogger is acting up and only allowing one photo at a time to upload. Posts therefore are coming in more slowly than I'd like due to time constraints with other job duties.

More photos after the jump...

Another house that was just a foundation before the week began.

Linda Higgins and Brian Bushay working on 430 30th.

Photos from the Habitat Week Opening Ceremony

2010-10-21T11:34:00.000-07:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council housing director.

More photos after the jump...

Video Footage from Habitat Week Closing Ceremonies

2010-10-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

Post and videos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council housing director; videos with Jeff Skrenes in them contributed by Habitat staff or volunteers.

With such an extraordinary month, capped off by thousands of volunteers and a visit from President Carter, Hawthorne still has photos and videos to share from the events of the Habitat week. Above are several videos from the final day of work.

Former HNC board chair Peter Teachout asked for a statement of his to be read at one of the final events, and I obliged. Some people have said that the sound quality on that video makes it difficult to hear. In response, I've posted Peter's speech after the jump. Peter said...

A Neighborhood

By Officer Candidate Peter Teachout

What makes a neighborhood? Do residents of an average community really know the answer to this question? A student of the Law asked a famous person one time, “who is my neighbor?” That important person responded with a story. This story took place in a certain time and in a certain country a long time before cars and modern technology. Most people walked from place to place. There were no policemen or emergency medical services to respond to life’s emergencies. Without this modern infrastructure, there were thieves and robbers that liked to waylay travelers that had to walk from one city to the next.

On a certain day a man was traveling between towns by himself. He was a merchant on to the next market to sell his wares. On the way he was robbed, beaten and left for dead. While lying there many people passed by him not caring to see what was wrong with him or if he was still alive. One man stopped and saw that the merchant was lying there bleeding. Being rather wealthy himself, he did not want to stop and help. He was worried about getting robbed himself. So he hurried on his way. Other people passed by and had similar excuses. They were scared, they were too busy, or they had small children and could not put them in danger.

Then a few hours later a man came by who had no high class upbringing. He did not have unlimited resources. He had his own family to protect, but he did not have to neglect them in order to help this poor beaten merchant. He came to the victim and checked to see what he could do to help. He was still alive. The man did what he could to bind the wounds and then he helped him unto his pack mule. He brought the merchant into the next town, paid for his room and gave the inn keeper money to care for the merchant so that he could recover in peace.

In many ways this story is a picture of North Minneapolis. For many years North Minneapolis has been that broken and robbed merchant lying on the side of the road. For many years people have said, oh, “I will never live there!”or, “You live where?” Never dreaming that they should use part of the life that was given to them to benefit those around them. But those of us that have gathered here today are different.

We saw something that was wrong with this picture and we have endeavored to fix it. It has taken some of us longer than others to get involved in the endeavor and impact change. I think I lived in the community for about 4-5 years before I got really serious about getting rid of the bad around me and seeking others that had the same goal. I think it was about the hundredth time my wife said, “But this is not normal. We should not have to live like this!” That I finally buckled down and resolved that I would not rest until that corner I lived on at 6th and 31st was safe for my wife and children.

And now this bubble of civil morality is starting to grow. The successes of Hawthorne and other little communities around North Minneapolis is starting to grow like a vine on a brick wall. They have been small and weak at first but soon North Minneapolis will be a network of strength for generations to come.

When you remember the way things used to be. When you are telling the new residents of these newly remodeled and brand new homes who used to do what, where their house is now, remember those that lived here the longest and suffered the most, much more than I or my family has. Get to know them. Show them respect and reach out to them. Remember that those of us that lived here through it all have not just struggled with an opposing force greater than ourselves. But because of that struggle we have accessed a strength far greater than we could have ever imagined. We have learned how to be neighbors.

Press Coverage from Habitat Week in the EcoVillage

2010-10-14T12:24:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council housing director. Photo by Pat Carney.

After the rousing success of last week, and the spotlight that President Carter's visit has shined on the Hawthorne EcoVillage, I thought I'd try and collect as much of the media coverage we received and put it all in one place so that Hawthorne members, NoMi residents, and others can easily access these terrific stories. I've tried to be as complete as possible, but have excluded some items. For instance, TV stations and newspapers in Duluth, Fargo, and LaCrosse all picked up this story but only published brief blurbs that offer no new material. The same goes for newspapers, TV stations, and websites/blogs in other cities where Habitat and the Carters did work last week. They may have mentioned Minneapolis or the EcoVillage, but only in passing.

NoMi photographer extraordinaire Pat Carney took the above photo, although a similar one may be available on the Habitat website in the near future. Pat also has an excellent photo album of the Carters' visit on his website.

The other media coverage we've received is listed after the jump...

Star Tribune

http://www.startribune.com/local/104425463.html?elr=KArksUUUoDEy3LGDiO7aiU

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/104457523.html?elr=KArks:DCiUHc3E7_V_nDaycUiacyKUbPi87EK_g:D_GD7EaDh_0c:aD:aUr

http://www.startribune.com/local/104267628.html?elr=KArksUUUoDEy3LGDiO7aiU

http://www.startribune.com/local/104249733.html?elr=KArksUUUoDEy3LGDiO7aiU

Pioneer Press

http://www.twincities.com/ci_16237132?IADID=Search-www.twincities.com-www.twincities.com&nclick_check=1

http://www.twincities.com/ci_16272519?IADID=Search-www.twincities.com-www.twincities.com

kstp

http://kstp.com/article/stories/S1777808.shtml?cat=0

wcco

http://wcco.com/politics/jimmy.carter.habitat.2.1948871.html

fox 9

http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/dpp/news/Jimmy-and-Rosalynn-Carter-Work-Project-oct-5-2010

City of Minneapolis

https://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/mayor/news/20101006newsmayor_carterecovillage.asp

Minnpost

http://www.minnpost.com/steveberg/2010/10/04/21997/extreme_makeover_hawthorne_ecovillage_transforms_tough_north_side_patch_awaits_carter_visit_this_week

http://www.minnpost.com/politicalagenda/2010/10/06/22127/jimmy_carter_heads_the_political_star_power_at_twin_cities_habitat_for_humanity_project

Twin Cities Daily Planet

http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/news/2010/10/06/jimmy-carter-visits-hawthorne-ecovillage

http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/news/2010/10/07/hope-back-twin-cities-jimmy-carter-and-big-plans-ahead-habitat-building

http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/news/2010/10/04/one-week-26-twin-cities-homes-jimmy-and-rosalynn-carter-work-project

The Uptake

http://theuptake.org/2010/10/07/jimmy-carter-habitat-for-humanity-build-homes-in-twin-cities/

Kare 11

http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=876035&catid=391

Irving Inquisition

http://www.irvinginquisition.com/2010/10/jimmy-rosalynn-carter-work-project-2010.html

Minnesota Daily

http://www.mndaily.com/2010/10/07/carter-aims-revitalize-n-mpls

If readers have other links that we've missed, please use the comment section or email me at jskrenes@hawthorneneighborhoodcouncil.org.

Sondra Samuels, Keynote Speaker for HNC Annual Dinner

2010-10-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Video by Megan Goodmundson/NoMi Passenger.

At the Hawthorne Neighborhood annual dinner on September 30, 2010, we were honored to have Sondra Samuels as our keynote speaker. Her excellent comments about what it means to live in community with one another were truly appreciated, and we thank Sondra for all she does for north Minneapolis.

Habitat Luncheon with President Carter in the EcoVillage (part 3 of video footage)

2010-10-07T09:58:00.000-07:00

Post and videos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

There will be time to explain in more detail the events of the week, but for now, we want to make the video footage available to everyone. Two things should be pointed out, however. First, President Carter once again praised Hawthorne for being the best neighborhood he's worked in. And second, a slight slip of the tongue by our Mayor needs to be corrected. He accidentally called Valeria, a long-term resident of the EcoVillage "Russian." Valeria is POLISH and darn proud of it. We're grateful for the commitment and hard work of Rybak, but for the sake of Valeria's Polish pride, we have to make that correction here.

President Carter: "We've Never Worked in a Nicer Neighborhood" (part 2 of video footage)

2010-10-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

Post and videos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

There are two things that stand out about these press conference videos. First, President Carter described the view from Farview Park and lauded our historic housing stock, then stated, "We've never worked in a nicer neighborhood than this one." Granted, this could be like a proud parent who tells their child, "I love you all the same," or a rock singer who whispers to his bandmates, "Which city are we in?" before stepping to the mic and declaring Minneapolis to be awesome. Still, Jimmy Carter said that Hawthorne was the nicest neighborhood he's worked in, and we get to brag about that.

Secondly, Carter is not the bragging type. Knowing that the media (and even the community) tends to focus on the star power of an ex-President, he kept on deflecting and asking if there were questions about Habitat or bringing the focus back to our community or Habitat's work. Here's a man we can admire.

Oh, and he said Hawthorne was the best. Did I mention that?

Videos of Habitat Week in Hawthorne! (part 1)

2010-10-07T09:40:00.000-07:00

Post and videos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

This has been a tremendous week for the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council, as we've had the honor of President Jimmy Carter and Vice President Walter Mondale working together on a Habitat project for the very first time in 27 years of Habitat for Humanity housing work done by the President and his wife. Plenty of other media have been doing an excellent job covering the success of the EcoVillage, Hawthorne community members, and the countless volunteers who have descended upon our neighborhood.

Here at the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council, we've been so busy that we haven't had a chance to sift through all the great photos, videos, and stories of the week. As things settle down, we'll be sure to add more content on this blog. In the meantime, here is the first of several video posts. The footage above is from the opening ceremonies at the Mall of America. Senator Franken spoke and we had excellent music from the angelic Ashleigh Still and the always racuous Belfast Cowboys.

Hawthorne Neighborhood Honored by the City!

2010-09-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Videos by Jeff Skrenes except where noted otherwise.

Based on the neighborhood's award-winning success in and around the EcoVillage, and in celebration of Habitat for Humanity's and former President Jimmy Carter's partnership in bringing several new families to our community, the Minneapolis city council recognized the tremendous accomplishments of Hawthorne, PPL, and Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity at today's full council meeting.

Videos are after the jump as well, and the resolution reads...

Resolution of the City of Minneapolis

By Hofstede, Reich, Gordon, Johnson, Samuels, Lilligren, Goodman, Glidden, Schiff, Tuthill, Quincy, Colvin Roy, and Hodges

Honoring the Hawthorne Neighborhood

Whereas, the Hawthorne Neighborhood is an engaged neighborhood within the City of Minneapolis's Third Ward, and has been an active participant in the Carter Work Project which will add to decent, affordable shelter for all people; and

Whereas, the Hawthorne Neighborhood coordinated efforts in the Hawthorne EcoVillage development which represents a shared vision among Hawthorne neighborhood residents and leaders, community agencies and the City to respond proactively to area toughest issues: crime, poverty, rising foreclosure rates and vacant housing, unemployment, and overall resident health; and

Whereas, the Hawthorne Neighborhood residents worked collaboratively with city partners to effectively address an area that was previously plagued with drug dealers, prostitution and other negative activity. The partnerships ultimately resulted in crime reduction, removal, and remediation of 27 or more properties; and

Whereas, the Hawthorne EcoVillage development covered four city blocks and was accomplished by Project for Pride in Living, in partnership with the City of Minneapolis, residents of the Hawthorne Neighborhood, and the Home Depot Foundation; and

Whereas, the residents of the Hawthorne Neighborhood have been engaged and persistent volunteers and leaders in neighborhood opportunities, and

Whereas, it is with great gratitude we celebrate the contributions of the Hawthorne Neighborhood; and all volunteers who contribute to the City's Northside, Third Ward, and the City of Minneapolis,

Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of The City of Minneapolis:

That the City hereby recognizes the Hawthorne Neighborhood and its residents as valuable contributors to the community.

And that the City expresses its sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Hawthorne Neighborhood and its residents for their dedication and commitment to the Northside, Third Ward, and our City.

Passed, September 24, 2010

Contributed video above

MetLife Award Presented for Progress in EcoVillage

2010-09-17T12:28:00.000-07:00

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.

Meet the New Homeowners! (Yes, ALL of Them)

2010-09-14T19:20:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I met some of the folks who will be new homeowners in and around the EcoVillage thanks to Habitat for Humanity. They were amazing people and we'll be blessed to have them in our community. Then, last week, I received paper copies of the neighbors' profiles and stories. Today, I learned they were posted on the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity website.

Halima Abdi, Abdul Wali, and family

For Halima Abdi and Abu Wali, life is about balance. With three energetic young boys and their teenage niece at home, it can be hard for these working parents to find time for their own careers. And for the next few months...(click here for the rest of their story)

Hamza Ahmed, Abdulazize Hamza & family

A room, no larger than a small office, houses four mats, four pillows, and a TV on a stand. Abdulazize, his father Hamza and two younger brothers share these four walls, which hold all of their possessions. “It’s a room to sleep,” Abdulazize says. The family of four, all boys...(click here for the rest of their story)

Drakeima Ingram, Robbie Loyde Jr., and family

Drakeima Ingram moved her family from Chicago to Minneapolis in 1995, hoping to find a better life. Since then, they have been at the mercy of bad landlords, dealing with...(click here for the rest of their story)

Nina Kimmons and family

When Nina heard that she had been selected for a Habitat home, she shouted with joy and then fell silent, stunned by the good news. As she hung up the phone, Nina’s children stared at her in surprise. “Mom,” they asked, “Are you okay?” (click here for the rest of her story)

Melo Lawson and family

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Melo Lawson and her family are an incredible reminder of these powerful words. Since coming to the United States from Togo in 2003, (click here for the rest of their story)

Donjia McDonald

Born and raised in the Twin Cities, Donjia McDonald is a friendly, busy, and proud mother of three. She currently works as an overnight counselor at a group home. She had worked at a bank for four years, but she lost that job when the recession deepened...(click here for the rest of her story)

Kitessa Nigere, Ebise Bayisa, and family

By the time their home in North Minneapolis is ready, Kitessa and Ebise’s family of three will become four. Kitessa and Ebise, both from Ethiopia, are expecting a second child at the end of July. For this young and growing family...(click here for the rest of their story)

Just reading these stories and finding out about the new residents we'll have in Hawthorne gives me goosebumps. I never imagined that we'd be adding this many people to the EcoVillage and surrounding blocks all at once. Now, if you're like me, you're probably wondering, "How do I volunteer during the first week of October for this completely transformative event?" (That IS what you're wondering, right? RIGHT?!)

Well, I'm glad you asked. Click here to sign up for various tasks; we still need plenty of help. Or you can email Andy Barnett or Trista Matacastillo.

Once again, thanks a million to Habitat and President Carter, and to all of our new residents, welcome to the neighborhood!

Video Footage from the EcoVillage Hawthorne Huddle

2010-09-10T09:06:00.000-07:00

Agenda for the September Hawthorne Huddle

2010-09-08T18:10:00.000-07:00

Mike Christenson greets Valeria (aka "The Polish Lady" at the EcoVillage Groundbreaking

Drive by the house at 400 31st Ave N on your way to the Huddle. You'll hardly BELIEVE what it looks like now!

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

HAWTHORNE HUDDLE
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2010

To: Friends of the Hawthorne Huddle

At this month’s Hawthorne Huddle, we’ll hear about the Hawthorne EcoVillage, a commitment to the community that is both ecologically friendly and economically affordable. The EcoVillage development represents a shared vision among neighborhood residents and leaders, community agencies and the City of Minneapolis. The goal of the project is to create and maintain a neighborhood that is a model of sustainability. Our panelists will tell us about this neighborhood-driven project which will preserve existing homes, build new single family homes, include mixed-income living opportunities, and create a healthy and sustainable urban community. Please join in the discussion about this great collaborative project. We welcome and encourage your input and ideas.

The Hawthorne Huddle will be held from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room at Farview Park, located at 621 29th Avenue North. A continental breakfast will be available at 7:15 a.m.

A G E N D A
WELCOME Ellen Luger
SAFETY UPDATE Inspector Mike Martin, Minneapolis Police Department 4th Precinct
IDEATION RECAP Jeff Peterson, General Mills Community Action
MAIN PROGRAM TOPIC: ECO VILLAGE
Introduction: The Honorable R. T. Rybak, Mayor of Minneapolis
Panelists:
Diane Hofstede, Council Member, City of Minneapolis
Bev Scherrer, Chair, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Committee,
Chris Wilson, Director of Real Estate Development, Project for Pride in Living (PPL)
Susan Haigh, President, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity
Andy Barnett, Director, Construction, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity
ADJOURNMENT

Next meeting: Thursday, October 7, 2010

South Hawthornites Raise Concerns

2010-09-08T17:57:00.000-07:00

This dumpster has been left on 2228 4th St N, vacant land owned by Hennepin County.

311 and MnDot have been informed of the broken sound wall.

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

Residents in the southeastern section of Hawthorne have brought up areas of concern along the 2200 block of 4th St N. Sometimes, as shown above with the retaining wall, those problems spill over to 3rd St - or even, technically, several feet beyond.

Drug dealing, dog fighting, and other illicit activities have been reported along this block, with a notable drug arrest reported by a neighbor at 2210 4th St N. This property is owned by Mohammed Moghul, presumably a relative of Bashir Moghul. Mohammed uses a contact address in Roseville that Bashir and other Moghul relatives have used in the past. And the place is at least $8,100 behind on taxes.

In the first picture above, the vacant lot brought back some fond memories. Once again, someone is misusing Hennepin County land. I called this in to 311, Hennepin County Property Services, Commissioner Stenglein's office, and even Veit Disposal. We'll see which one alleviates this nuisance first.

The other incidents described by residents were not occurring during my visit to the area, but the information has been passed on to our councilperson and the 4th Precinct. We watch, we call.

Habitat Spurs Progress in EcoVillage!

2010-08-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

As we gear up towards the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter visit in October, I strolled through the EcoVillage this week. Pictured above is 430 30th Ave N. When I went by one day, it was a normal vacant lot with a Habitat sign and some markers on it. The following day, ground was being broken here, as well as at 416 30th Ave N. I also had the chance to meet two of the families who will be living at 430 30th and 419 30th. They're wonderful people who will be excellent additions to the neighborhood.

Just south of the EcoVillage boundaries is another Habitat rehab at 2917 6th St N.

And while the new LEED home at 400 31st is a PPL project and not Habitat, it's still coming along nicely. The garage, being worked on in the photo below, is likely complete by now.

Mike Christenson of CPED has been fond of saying, "When things are done in the EcoVillage you're not going to belive it." Well, we're only in the infancy of building anew, and the future is already so bright. Here's what I believe: I believe that in several years, we'll put the finishing touches on this project. And when that happens, we'll tell all the newbies about how rough it was here for a while. When that happens, things will have been so good for so long that THEY'LL be the ones who don't believe us.

Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Purchases Office Space!

2010-08-23T11:23:00.000-07:00

Post and photo by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council is now the proud owner of 2944 Emerson Ave N, closing on our long-standing office space in July. With an exciting new beginning also came a bittersweet end; the transaction marked the final works of the Bethel Lutheran Church Dissolution Committee.

Originally, the house was a structure associated with the church building to the north of the site. It was used as the church parsonage from its construction until 1958. For the next thirty years, Bethel Lutheran Church held Sunday school in the building and used it as their church office space. Shortly afterward, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council (then called the Hawthorne Area Community Council) began renting office space from Bethel. As attendance and membership at Bethel Lutheran Church declined, the church was sold to New Bethel Baptist and the lots were divided to create two separate properties.

Prior to closing on the house, HNC first went to the city of Minneapolis for a zoning variance, which was approved. The city's findings and recommendations can be found here.

Hawthorne is grateful for the hard work of our board members, staff, and other colleagues who helped guide us through the zoning and acquisition processes, including the advice from Project for Pride in Living regarding energy-efficient and environmentally friendly ways we can begin to rehab our new home. We are now owners of our own office space at a fraction of our previous rental costs.

In the coming months, HNC will begin the work of improving the property through a new roof and refurbished windows, as well as landscaping and other changes. Hawthorne and NoMi neighbors are encouraged to stop by and see our "new" home!

Wafana's - Going, Going, Gone!

2010-08-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

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

The Wafana's store at 24th and Lyndale once logged over 1,400 911 calls in a 12-month period and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in city resources. At the 3rd Ward CARE meeting this week, I heard the news it was demolished. Already, as shown above, new trees have been planted along the property.

EcoVillage LEED House Ready for Showing!

2010-08-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Image contributed by Banneker Realty.

The first new construction of the Hawthorne EcoVillage is ready for sale! For more information on this exciting new home, which is expected to be LEED-certified upon completion, go to its official website. From there, you can contact our excellent listing agents at Banneker Realty. From all the wonderful neighbors in Hawthorne, welcome to the EcoVillage!

Rehab Begins at 915 22nd Ave N!

2010-08-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

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

Rehab work is in full swing at 915 22nd Ave N, making it impossible for no-accounts to use the spot as a place to come and deal or use drugs. Neighbors are happy to see the progress, and we hope the house will be sold to a good owner-occupant in the near future!

New Arts Opportunities

2010-08-03T18:42:00.000-07:00

FY 2011 grant application deadlines

The Minnesota State Arts Board has posted its schedule of grant application deadlines and advisory panel review meetings for the first part of FY 2011. The board expects to have one grant round in the fall/winter and another in the spring; additional dates will be added to the calendar later this fall. www.arts.state.mn.us/calendar/index.htm

Grant information sessions

Sessions are being offered this month for the upcoming Artist Initiative grant round. Register online if you'd like to attend. www.arts.state.mn.us/calendar/info_sessions.htm

And for the right artists this might be an exceptional opportunity: The Creative Community Leadership Institute @ Intermedia Arts.

A Quick Note About Comment Moderation on this Blog

2010-08-03T09:56:00.000-07:00

This blog is the approved blog of the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council. In posting and commenting here, its contributors are expected to keep that in mind. HNC welcomes spirited debate around important topics to our community, and is committed to approving comments on all sides of an issue.

However, comments that do not fit our mission statement will not be approved. That statement reads: "The Council seeks to improve the quality of life in the Hawthorne Neighborhood through empowering the residents in order that they can address the physical, cultural, social, and economic needs of the community."

A recent anonymous comment has not been approved because it does not fit the above statement.

915 22nd Ave N: Fence It Off, Fix It Up, or Tear It Down!

2010-08-02T09:38:00.000-07:00

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

Earlier in the summer, Hawthorne residents brought drug use problems at 915 22nd Ave N to my attention. We still have not stopped people from sneaking around to the back of the property, shooting up, lurking, and leaving their drug paraphernalia and other litter behind. Every time I've gone to this property, there have been more needles and litter strewn throughout the yard. What makes this an especially difficult problem to address is that it is quite literally impossible to see what's going on from the street or alley. The house is built in such a way that one can stand on the steps to the back/side door and be completely hidden.

The only way to confirm whether someone is back there is to actually go around the corner and check for oneself. This is not a safe activity for the little old ladies running the nearby community garden to engage in. Heck, even for a strapping, corn-fed farmboy such as myself, checking this place out is pretty risky. As much as we respect the fine work done by the MPD, there's also no real way they can consistently monitor this property. Drug use, loitering, lurking, littering and other activities reportedly happen at all hours of the day.

It should be noted that due to the arson and current condition of the building, as well as its odd layout that blocks alley access for 2128 Dupont, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council supports demolition of this structure, and a re-platting of the properties to extend 2128 and 2126 Dupont Ave N to the alley.

Either demolition or rehab will certainly take many months to accomplish, and unless action is taken, the illegal activities will continue unabated. Can we get the current owner of the property to fence it off and limit access in the meantime?

Hawthorne Receives Neighborhood Revitalization Award from MetLife!

2010-07-28T15:01:00.000-07:00

Post and photos (except where noted otherwise) by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

Upon my return from a vacation in Tanzania, the very first work email I opened up gave me this tremendous news. The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council, in conjunction with many of our EcoVillage partners, received a Neighborhood Revitalization award from the MetLife Foundation. There were 720 applicants from across the country this year, and eleven were chosen as recipients. Hawthorne and our partners are proud of and grateful for this honor.

The difficulties and accomplishments in the EcoVillage have been documented by the USA Today, National and local Public Radio, in the Star Tribune, and even some odd ones, like a Japanese television station, and al-Jazeera. But the story of the EcoVillage has been most extensively detailed on a blog belonging to Hawthorne board member John Hoff.

We started with an area besieged by foreclosures and vacancies well before the housing crisis hit. Drug dealing and prostitution were so rampant on the corner of 31st Ave N and 6th St N that many drivers did not even come to a complete stop at the four-way stop sign. But EcoVillage and Hawthorne residents were vigilant, calling 911 incessantly and getting the attention of many at the city of Minneapolis who would be crucial in this fight against blight.

Hawthorne, the Northside Home Fund, and PPL sat down in the HNC office with just about every city department that deals with livability issues. We went house by house, issue by issue, and assigned tasks to various people and departments. As Inspector Mike Martin said, "Everybody did exactly what they were supposed to do. Even the bad guys went away."

There was pushback, as former board chair Peter Teachout had his truck set on fire, and a known drug dealer was suspected of arson at a property he lost to foreclosure. That house, and others, had to be demolished.

We worked at it.

Contributed photo above

And we celebrated, often with Polish sausage from EcoVillage resident Anders Golebiowski.

But our work is not nearly done. We are building our first new LEED-certified home.

President Carter is coming to the EcoVillage in October, and we need plenty of volunteers before then to pave the way. Mike Christenson of CPED said that the turnaround in this neighborhood happened faster than he's ever seen. Hawthorne owes a debt of gratitude to our partners in this venture, as we know that the momentum will keep us on this path to revitalization.

A formal presentation of the award from MetLife is being planned, and will be announced soon on the Hawthorne Voices blog.

Minnesota State Arts Board's Artist Initiative Grants!

2010-07-27T08:24:00.001-07:00

The next application deadline for the Minnesota State Arts Board's Artist Initiative grant program will be Friday, August 27, 2010.

Artist Initiative grants support and assist artists at various stages in their careers. The program encourages artistic development, nurtures artistic creativity, and recognizes the contributions individual artists make to the creative environment of the state of Minnesota.

Several things about the program are different this year:

— Artists, working in any discipline, are eligible to apply

— The grant range has been expanded; artists may request from $2,000 to $10,000

— Projects will need to include a community component

— Applicants will need to apply online, using the Arts Board's Web based forms

Many things about the program are the same as they have been in previous years:

— Artists, at any stages in their careers, may apply

— Grants must be used to fund a specific project that will enhance the applicant's artistic or career development

— Artists will have a one-year period to expend the grant funds.

Visit the Arts Board's Web site for more information about the program and how to apply:

http://www.arts.state.mn.us/grants/artist_initiative.htm

A series of grant information sessions will be held in communities throughout the state, the schedule will be posted during the last week of July.

Agenda for the August Hawthorne Huddle

2010-07-26T11:32:00.001-07:00

Post and photo by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director

The following is an email announcement sent out by Sophie Winter of the General Mills Foundation.

July 29, 2010

HAWTHORNE HUDDLE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5, 2010

To: Friends of the Hawthorne Huddle

As the Hawthorne Huddle looks ahead to its 13th anniversary (birthday!) this November, we’d like to engage the group in brief dialogue on where we’ve been, and where and how we’d like the Huddle to grow in its teen years. On Thursday, August 5th, General Mills Foundation staff will facilitate a 1-hour “reflection and ideation” session to get your thoughts on the Huddle’s biggest accomplishments and opportunities. We hope you can join us with your memories and motivations for future Hawthorne Huddle impact!

The Hawthorne Huddle will be held from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room at Farview Park, located at 621 29th Avenue North. A continental breakfast will be available at 7:15 a.m.

Agenda

Welcome - Ellen Luger, General Mills Foundation

Safety Update - Inspector Mike Martin, Minneapolis Police Department 4th Precinct

Main Program Topic - Looking Back, Looking Ahead, What's Next for the Hawthorne Huddle?

Come and be a part of the neighborhood dialogue in Hawthorne!

Video Footage from the Hard Hat Gala

2010-07-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

Post by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Neighborhood Council Housing Director. Video contributed by Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity.

This spring, Habitat for Humanity came by and shot some footage of the EcoVillage in order to promote the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project at their annual Hard Hat Gala. Folks who saw the video at the gala kept on coming up to me, saying how passionate my acting was in the video. "That's because it wasn't acting," I said.

Interestingly enough, one of the first houses we went to was what the neighborhood has nicknamed "The Brick House," one we are hoping to save and rehab. As we were walking up to the place, I was telling the story about how excited I was in seeing all kinds of mortgage geeky paperwork that would get posted here. (Click here for a picture of that.) Frankly, I had to struggle to keep my composure when I saw the order to raze the building posted.

After shooting the footage, I went into high gear and contacted our partners at the city to ask that the raze order be removed. They complied by the end of that same day, a sign of how committed our partnership with them really is in the EcoVillage. But out of all the footage we shot, the ONE clip I had hoped WOULDN'T be used instead was put RIGHT AT THE BEGINNING OF THE VIDEO. I love the irony of it all.

Habitat House Near Farview Park Nears Completion!

2010-07-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

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

What a difference a few weeks make! When I left for vacation in Tanzania, the exterior of the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity project at 610 29th Ave N was still being worked on, and I hadn't had a chance to see the interior. And now the house looks almost done. Several TCHH board members were volunteering today, practicing what they preach.

Work also started up this week on two of Habitat's rehab projects in and around the EcoVillage in preparation for the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project in October. Hawthorne and Habitat are looking for volunteers to contribute and help coordinate the rehab and new construction leading up to President Carter's visit. More information is on its way on how Hawthorne members, NoMi residents, and anyone who's willing can help.

In the meantime, Hawthorne thanks Habitat for their partnership!

EcoVillage Tree Nursery Open to All of NoMi!

2010-06-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

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

Several weeks ago, the EcoVillage Tree Nursery received a new supply of trees, and I received a fresh supply of Polish sausage for my efforts. The sausage didn't last long at all, but many trees are still there. Pictured above are the first two non-Hawthornites to pick up their trees this summer. Parts of this post originally appeared on the Johnny Northside blog. However, on Hawthorne Voices, we will detail which trees, and how many, are left.

Initially, the trees were reserved for Hawthorne residents only. The reason being that Hawthorne residents and members have been the ones working on the EcoVillage, and some neighborhood funding has been used for this project. So our neighbors should get some benefit from that.

There are still quite a few nice trees left though, and if you want one, here's how it works.

First, in order to qualify, you must be a property owner who lives in north Minneapolis. If demand is high, preference will be given to owner-occupants, but for now any property owner is eligible. Second, and this is important: even though the trees are free, DO NOT JUST GO AND PICK ONE UP. The city of Minneapolis wants to track where these trees go, and if they survive at similar rates to other parts of the city.

So if you want a tree, please call the Hawthorne office at 612-529-6033 or email me at jskrenes@hawthorneneighborhoodcouncil.org to set up a time for a pick-up. The nursery is not secured, so we're going on the honor system here. We'll need to get the address where the tree will be planted, as well as contact information.

Also, as you can see from the photo above, you'll need either a pickup truck or a van/SUV with a window that can be opened. Or a wheelbarrow. I've seen people cart their trees away in those too. But trees are available to any NoMi resident! Come and get 'em!

Pictured above is the Burgundy Belle Maple (click for an image of what a mature one looks like). There are three of those trees currently available.

Below is a Regal Prince Oak. There are three of those left as well. However, two of the three have red ribbons around them. Those weren't there before, so it may be that one of the EcoVillage or other community partners has reserved them. Please do not take trees with a red ribbon until this has been clarified.

Here we have a Greenspire Linden. There are eight Greenspire trees available.

There are fourteen Redmond Linden trees in the nursery, but two are marked with a red ribbon and may therefore be reserved already.

There are four Kentucky Coffeetrees still in the nursery as well.

We have one Accolade Elm left.

And there is one Swamp White Oak still available.

Call the Hawthorne office at 612-529-6033 to set up a time to pick up your new tree!

Community Energy Services: A Bright Idea

2010-06-23T08:20:00.000-07:00

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

Earlier this year, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council and Community Energy Services jointly sponsored two workshops to get residents energy-efficient and environmentally friendly home upgrades. The home visit and materials are valued at $400, and require a $20 co-pay. But the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council has offered to cover the co-pay for the first 150 residents who sign up. There's still plenty of space left for the materials and visits to be completely free to you!

Here's the catch: to qualify, you must be an owner-occupant of the Hawthorne neighborhood, and you must attend a CES workshop. The next workshop is set to take place on Tuesday, June 29th, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (they usually finish earlier) at Farview Park. If you are interested in attending, contact Kyle Boehm at 612-219-7334 or kboehm@mncee.org.

Pictured above are some photos from the home visit done with Hawthorne board member and blogger John Hoff.

Drug Use Issues at 915 22nd Ave N

2010-06-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

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

A Hawthorne resident called me today to inform the neighborhood council about drug use happening at the back door of 915 22nd Ave N. This property, owned by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, is being cleaned out after arson was suspected some time ago. The neighborhood would like to see the structure demolished and have the property lines redrawn at 2126 and 2128 Dupont to create two properties that continue all the way to the alley.

In the meantime, block club members and residents have started up a community garden nearby, with the help of the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council and Urban Homeworks. Block club participants report drug use activity happening at all hours of the day.

Where things become tricky is that the rear doorway where the activity takes place is quite literally impossible to see from the street or the alley. One has to go around the corner just to see the alcove. Naturally, residents are hesitant to do so, worried about who or what they might encounter.

Phone calls have been made to CM Hofstede, Minnesota Housing, and the 4th Precinct. Having virtually no witnesses to the activity makes official reporting problematic. Our goal at this time is to get the cleanup crew to formally report to the MPD that they found upwards of 40-50 needles on the back steps so that there is at least a trail of documentation. Any residents who see signs of illicit activity, even lurking, at this property, are urged to call 911.

Walking Down Memory Lane in Hawthorne

2010-03-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

The Jim Wentzell Special: A Steak and Manhattan on West Broadway!

2010-02-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes. John Hoff and Pat Carney were in attendance as well, taking more and better photos.

Several months ago, while writing about the Delisi's/KMOJ groundbreaking, I made a promise to longtime Hawthorne board member Jim Wentzell. He'd get his steak and Manhattan on West Broadway and he wouldn't have to pay a dime for it. Last night, Hawthorne members, NoMi residents and activists, and plenty of other wonderful people working to revitalize our community made good on that promise.

We gathered at Good Sports Bar and Grill, located in the Hawthorne neighborhood on 2nd and Broadway. As previously mentioned, Good Sports serves both steaks and Manhattans, and does them both amazingly well. Mike Christenson of CPED helped put this together by getting Jim to attend, but we kept the scope of how many people would be there a secret. Actually, it was such a good secret that even Alexandra Jasicki and I were surprised by the turnout. I'm told that the count at one point was 82 people, and it was estimated that 65-70 of them were there for this event.

The attendees were a veritable who's-who of NoMi revitalizers. Hawthorne residents, board members, city officials, neighborhood activists and all three NoMi city council representatives made an appearance. Pictured above is Bob Miller of NRP, Ed Anderson of Cub on Broadway, and Jim, with Mike Christenson in the background. Jim's birthday is about a month away, but with this many people gathered, we had to celebrate that too. With this many passionate people in a room together, we're bound to have differences of opinion, but the only arguments I overheard were among those competing for the honor of picking up the tab for Jim that night.

We can point to all kinds of economic indicators like dollars invested or business occupancy rates, but Jim has always had a beautifully simple way to measure success in NoMi. For years he's said that he'll know we've turned the corner when he can sit down at a good restaurant and have a steak and a Manhattan on Broadway Ave. Plenty of people (myself included) did just that. The Leveys, who own Good Sports, said that their supply of steaks was "raided" by the time we were done. I had a Manhattan perfect, and I didn't have to specify that the steak be perfect; it just came that way.

Also in attendance were Peter Teachout, former Hawthorne board chair (with his four kids in tow) and Kip Browne of Jordan, who brought along his newborn. Val and Mike Levey mentioned their neices, ages 3 and 11, and said they want to run an establishment that they know they can bring their entire family to.

As excited as we all were to thank Jim for his many years of service in NoMi, this event wasn't just about him. This was a chance to show off. Here in NoMi, we're proud of the economic development we're seeing, we're proud of businesses like Good Sports, proud of dedicated volunteers like Jim Wentzell, and proud of the vibrant and supportive community we've got in Hawthorne and throughout north Minneapolis. A heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who contributes to the success in our community!

Remember to Sign Up for Community Energy Services!

2010-02-08T16:27:00.001-08:00

Post and photo by Jeff Skrenes.

Coming up soon, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council will host two workshops for a new residential energy service program with the Center for Energy and Environment. Pictured above is Hawthorne board member and blogger John Hoff, filling out his application form for this program.

John was also kind enough to lend our neighborhood the use of his Johnny Northside pdf support site. Click here and you can view and download an informational flier about the program, an application document, and a flier about the two workshops.

Here's how it works in a nutshell: CEE is providing a customized home energy visit from professionals who can help ascertain what your home may need. Along with this, some materials will be provided to make basic energy savings changes in your home. The visit and the materials have a $400 value, and the forms indicate that there is a $20 copay. However, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council will cover the copays for the first 150 people who sign up. If you're in that group, you get a $400 value PLUS some long-term energy fixes for your home for FREE.

Here's the catch: in order to participate, attendance at one of the two workshops is mandatory: February 17, 6:30-8:30 p.m. and February 20, 10 a.m.-noon, both at Farview Park. Please fill out the form here and get it to Ashley Robertson at CEE (arobertson@mncee.org) to register. We'll see you at one of the workshops!

Good Sports Bar & Grill Has "Soft Opening"

2010-02-05T15:40:00.000-08:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes

Last night, the Good Sports Bar & Grill had its "soft" opening. This is a term we're learning in Hawthorne as more and more exciting new business pop up in what used to be nuisance areas. A soft opening is when a business opens their doors without much fanfare in order to iron out any wrinkles and get a feel for how the day will run. If last night is any indication, Good Sports Bar & Grill will be a huge success.

In the second picture, I'm enjoying a Cuban cigar with Realtor Charmaine Wahlstrom Schodde. I was thinking back to the days when a Cuban cigar was smoked to celebrate a victory against Citimortgage. Except this time around, we were celebrating that a business has been built up instead of a house being torn down. I'm sure that helped make the cigar taste even better.

In the next picture, Alexandra Jasicki, Director of Community Affairs for Hawthorne is talking with Val Levey (in the red), who is one of the co-owners of Good Sports. Val does excellent work in high-end general contracting home rehab. His brother Mike has extensive experience in bar and restaurant management.

When the Levey brothers first came to the neighborhood and to the city with their proposal, they were met with heavy skepticism. People wondered if anything good could ever come from a place that had been the source of so many problems in the neighborhood. Donny Dirk's Zombie Den answered that question already by turning around Stand Up Frank's just down the street. Val and Mike came to just about every Hawthorne community meeting they could for the better part of a year to garner support and take input from the neighborhood. Alexandra worked tirelessly to help the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council reciprocate the Leveys' effort, and we now welcome another new business to West Broadway.

It's also worth noting that West Broadway is the only commercial corridor in the country where development is proceeding without being hindered by the recession.

In the final picture, Hawthorne board member and blogger John Hoff enjoys what we're starting to call "The Jim Wentzell Special." There are all sorts of fancy statistics one could point to as indicators of economic vitality in our neighborhood. But longtime Hawthorne board member Jim Wentzell has for twenty years had a wonderfully simple way to describe economic success: the ability to sit down and enjoy a steak and a Manhattan on West Broadway.

And did I mention the food? That steak cost just $12.99 and it was AMAZING. I like A-1 sauce, but this was so delicious that to use any toppings whatsoever would have been an insult to the chef. Good Sports Bar & Grill, welcome to the neighborhood.

Email and Web technical difficulties

2010-02-03T10:42:00.000-08:00

The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council is experiencing technical difficulties with its website and email accounts. If there are urgent issues, please call the Hawthorne office at 612-529-6033. We hope to have these issues resolved shortly, and we apologize for any inconvenience.

What's Next for Lowry Avenue?

2010-01-27T19:15:00.000-08:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Housing Director

The following announcement comes to us from the city of Minneapolis website. Be warned that what follows was written by someone in government, meaning that it succeeds at being professionally worded, while making the meeting sound boring enough that people might not want to come. At the end of this announcement, I'll try and convince people otherwise:

"2nd Community Meeting Scheduled

Time: Thursday, January 28th, 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Venue: North Regional Library (1315 Lowry Avenue North)

"The Lowry Avenue Strategic Plan: An Update to the Lowry Avenue Corridor Plan is a planning process initiated by the Cleveland, Folwell, Hawthorne, Jordan and McKinley neighborhood associations in northwest Minneapolis. The plan funded by NRP monies and Great Streets grants is being prepared by Cuningham Group, the planning consultant for this project. The City of Minneapolis, CPED- Planning Division, a key partner in this project is the project manager on behalf of these five neighborhoods.

"The objective of this planning process is to update the 2002 Lowry Avenue Corridor Plan by building on the established vision for Lowry Avenue. It will refine that vision and create an implementation strategy for fostering new development and attracting new businesses. The final plan will better define the composition of the three neighborhood nodes described in the 2002 plan; namely: Penn and Lowry; Fremont and Lowry; and, Lyndale and Lowry. The recommendations through this planning process will be drafted in a manner that coordinates implementation strategies for the entire corridor.

"The study area extends from the city limits on the west and the river on the east, and one block north and south of Lowry Avenue for the length of the corridor between the river and the city limits.

"The planning process will include an extensive community participation process including at least two community meetings and several focus group meetings with stakeholders. Tentatively the community meetings are scheduled for Thursday, November 19 and Thursday, January 28 at the North Regional Library."

(End of announcement from the city, begin commentary by Jeff Skrenes)

First, I corrected the announcement at the end of the city's site, that January 21 was listed as the date for the meeting, but it was rescheduled. Second, now that the boring stuff is out of the way, here's why this matters in plain English.

What happens now on Lowry is going to affect not just Hawthorne but much of north Minneapolis for decades to come. The planning meetings like this one are where the city, county, and other partners listen to what we as a community have to say, and then (ideally) put those values into action in a way that reflects what we want and benefits our community. The time to articulate that is NOW. We can hold them to it later, but the document(s) that get drawn up about the community vision are being created at these meetings.

Once again, here's the website where this is announced. Towards the bottom are links to the agendas and summaries of previous Great Streets meetings.

And yes, sometimes we as a community create these collective visions with the expectation that our goals will be implemented. Much of the time, they are. But sometimes the city doesn't quite listen to what we have to say, and we have to remind them of their commitment to uphold our values. Click here for an example of how that played out on West Broadway last year. That's why we need your attendance on Thursday night.

Finally, the announcement referenced three intersections that will be the focus of discussion. I thought I'd put up photos of what those intersections look like right now. Here's Lowry and Lyndale, which includes part of the EcoVillage project:

And here's Lowry and Fremont:

Finally, Lowry and Penn:

Now, if you made it through all of that, you've got no excuse for missing the meeting tomorrow night. That's from 5:30 - 7:30 at the North Library, 1315 Lowry Ave N. You'll see me there for certain.

Hawthorne EcoVillage to Break Ground!

2010-01-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

Post written by Jeff Skrenes

On Thursday January 7, 2010, the Hawthorne EcoVillage will hold a ceremonial groundbreaking on its first new construction! Hawthorne residents realized early on that it would take a "pioneering spirit" to bring people into the neighborhood in light of many of the challenges we faced. Well before "green" became a buzzword in the housing industry, Hawthorne community members decided to build off of that pioneering spirit by setting a goal that the EcoVillage development would be among the first LEED-certified projects in the nation.

With a $500,000 grant from the Home Depot Foundation, cluster status designation from the Northside Home Fund, the help of many partners listed above, and the vision and dedication of our neighborhood, the EcoVillage has already made a significant difference in the community. Valeria Golebiowski, a resident for over 43 years, had struggled with the rampant crime, foreclosures, squatters, and problem properties in the area and at one point was close to selling her home as a result. Thanks to the strides made through this development, her commitment to the neighborhood has redoubled. "If not for the EcoVillage, I'd be leaving," she said.

Come join us on Thursday, January 7, 2:30 p.m. for a brief groundbreaking ceremony at 400 31st Ave N, the site of the first new construction unit of the EcoVillage. We know it's cold, so a reception will follow at Farview Park nearby. A heartfelt thanks goes out to all of our residents and partners for making this day possible!

New Residential Energy Program Coming to Hawthorne!

2009-12-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

Post and photos by Jeff Skrenes

Learn how to reduce your energy use and save money! The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council has teamed up with the Center for Energy and Environment, CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy to offer Hawthorne homeowners Community Energy Services, CES, a full service residential energy program.

The program will not only provide you with information about reducing your energy use by installing low-cost/no-cost measures in your home, but it will also provide you with the tools and financing necessary if you are ready to make larger investments such as insulation, sealing bypasses and installing new windows.

Community Energy Services Provides:

• FREE educational workshops to teach homeowners how to lower their energy use and save money;

• FREE educational workshops to teach homeowners how to lower their energy use and save money;

• Customized home energy visits from qualified professionals who will identify additional ways for residents to save in their homes, including a blower door test. Up to $400 in services and materials for a co-pay of only $20, however the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council will cover the co-pay of the first 150 people to sign up for the program, giving you a $400 value for free;

• Personalized energy use inventory for the last 12 months and feedback for the next 12 months to show the homeowner how these low-cost/no-cost measures resulted in decreased energy use, also allowing participants to compare their energy use to that of their neighbors also participating in the program (confidentially of course);

• Information on financing, incentives, stimulus funding and rebates for those wishing to complete larger projects such as insulation or a furnace replacement.

SAVE THE DATES!
A general informational workshop will be held at Farview Park on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Two other workshops to sign up for these FREE services will be held on Wednesday, February 17th, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, February 20th, 10 a.m. - noon. Call or email Ashley Robertson to reserve your spot TODAY, at 612-335-5869 or arobertson@mncee.org.

By being a part of the Community Energy Services program you will be one of the first people in the state to have access to everything this program has to offer! Invite your friends, neighbors and family, all Hawthorne homeowners are welcome!

Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).

"Hawthorne Voices" Speaks Again!

2009-12-07T10:57:00.000-08:00

Post written by Jeff Skrenes, Hawthorne Housing Director, contributed photo.

The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council is reviving its "Hawthorne Voices" blog! Over the past several months, many Hawthorne-specific issues have appeared on a blog run by one of Hawthorne's board members, John Hoff. While the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council appreciates Mr. Hoff's contributions through his Adventures of Johnny Northside blog, the tone and political content intermingled with entries about or by Hawthorne residents sometimes diluted the message of the neighborhood.

So this blog is starting up again, and here's how it will work for the time being...

Hawthorne Housing Director Jeff Skrenes will manage the blog, including adding or removing content, adjusting the layout of the page, and approving or rejecting comments. If you have content that you would like to see posted on this blog, please email Mr. Skrenes at jskrenes@hawthorneneighborhoodcouncil.org. Other Hawthorne members may also have access to this blog, but for now I will be the only person performing these tasks until others are designated as well.

If submitting a photo, please give credit when possible to the person or entity that took the photo. When this is not possible, or when the person taking the photo wishes to remain anonymous, we will label it as a "contributed photo."

We will make an effort to update the Hawthorne Voices blog at least once a week with the most significant staff activities, neighborhood concerns, and Hawthorne events. More frequent updates may happen as events warrant.

When submitting a comment, please keep the following guidelines in mind:
1. Spam content will be rejected.
2. Racist, sexist, and otherwise derogatory content will be rejected.
3. Due to our tax-exempt status, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council reserves the right to not publish content that endorses a specific political candidate or party.
4. The mission statement of the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council is as follows: "The Council seeks to improve the quality of life in the Hawthorne neighborhood through empowering the residents in order that they can address the physical, cultural, social, and economic needs of the community." HNC encourages the free speech available on the blogosphere but must act in accordance with our mission. We therefore reserve the right to not publish content that either goes against our mission statement or is not germane to it.

Well, this particular post is a bit dry, but necessary to lay some ground rules.

New "Hawthorne Advantage" Buyer Incentive (Plus Details On Other Home Programs)

2009-01-12T19:46:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, January 8, the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council board approved two changes to its housing programs. First and foremost was the exciting "Hawthorne Advantage" program for purchasers of owner-occupied houses in Hawthorne. Here's how it works:

Just for buying a house AND LIVING IN IT in Hawthorne, we'll help you out with 3 percent of the purchase price, up to $4,000. And if you buy a foreclosed or boarded/vacant property, we'll kick in an additional $1,000.

This assistance will stay as a lien against the property for ten years, but has no monthly payments and ZERO interest. From year six through ten, the amount is forgiven at 20 percent a year until it is completely forgiven when you have stayed in our fine neighborhood for ten years.

To apply for these programs, contact Housing Director Jeff Skrenes.

Applying The Numbers

Let's put a real-life example or two into this. If you buy a $120,000 house in Hawthorne from another owner-occupant, you'll qualify for the maximum initial assistance amount of $4,000 (3 percent of sales price)

But let's say you find a $50,000 house that just went through foreclosure. (This may be high for foreclosed homes, but it makes the math easy) You'd quality for the 3 percent down payment help of $1,500 plus an additional $1,000 for turning a foreclosed property back to owner-occupied status. That winds up being 5 percent of the purchase price.

And guess what? You can use the Minneapolis Advantage $10,000 in combination with our assistance. Bearing in mind that both prices and interest rates are near record lows, and seeing all the great stuff we're doing in our neighborhood, we've got to ask: Why WOULDN'T you buy in Hawthorne?

Rehab Loan Program Was Always Here, Nothing New

Our neighborhood also has an excellent loan program at 4 percent interest, repaid over ten years.

But if somebody has an emergency and can't qualify for that, we are still here to help.

Neighbors Taking Care Of Neighbors

On January 8, 2009, Hawthorne introduced an emergency assistance program. If your furnace goes out in the middle of winter and you have trouble getting access to money to address this or another similar emergency, Hawthorne now has a program to help. We will lend you up to $6,000 at zero interest, forgiven in the same way as the down payment program.

Come to Hawthorne! We'll help you get here and we take care of our neighbors.

A Vision Of Hawthorne's Bright, Shining Future

2008-12-16T11:53:00.000-08:00

Draft Image Only

Today an image was forwarded of the exciting proposed project discussed in the previous story, click here or see the story right below.

It should be emphasized this image is only a draft, and the final project might look different. In the picture, the world's largest YWCA is to the right, and the commercial development at 800 West Broadway is to the left.

Word of this project is generating excitement not only in Hawthorne, but in north Minneapolis.

World's Largest YWCA Planned For Hawthorne Neighborhood

2008-12-15T13:17:00.000-08:00

Margo Geffen presented to the Hawthorne Board recently about a plan to build the world's largest YWCA right here in Hawthorne.

Pictured above is Executive Director Laban Ohito and some members of the Hawthorne Board on the historic night this major development was announced. News of the plan has generated considerable excitement in North Minneapolis but the project has actually been quietly in the works for a while.

The plan has three main features: the world's largest YWCA, a commercial building at 800 West Broadway, and a parking ramp. Here is a breakdown of the plan:

1.) World's Largest YWCA

The YWCA entrance, the Police Safety Center entrance, and the ramp entrance are strategically placed to provide safe, direct, welcoming connections. The running track and fitness rooms have views to a green roof and the Minneapolis skyline.

The YWCA building will match the set back of the new proposed 800 West Broadway setback. This will allow the addition of parallel parking to support the mixed use development without narrowing West Broadway. The south-facing pool will activate the street with light via a 2-story glass wall. The facility will reportedly have two pools.

2.) 800 Building Commercial Development

The existing 800 West Broadway building will be renovated for retail and restaurant on the first level with outdoor dining along Aldrich and Broadway. Proposed office space on the second level will enjoy skyline views.

The 800 building's first structural bay will be removed to provide for a 28 foot, 6 inch wide street section with pedestrian and transit oriented streetscape to provide a safe environment.

3.) Parking Ramp
The parking ramp incorporates safety features such as direct connection to the YWCA, and a Police Safety Center adjacent to both pedestrian and vehicular entrances.

All buildings will be designed to promote sustainability and energy efficiency.

4.) Tours Planned

There will be tours to discuss this plan of the Great Neighborhoods! Development Corporation. Tours are planned for January 28, at 2:30, and February 25, between 10 am and 12:15 pm. The tours will start at the GNDC office on Franklin Avenue, go to the YWCA in Midtown, and will end up at the project site. (800 West Broadway Building)

For questions or to be part of the tour, contact Margo Geffen, Director of Real Estate, Great Neighborhoods! Development Corporation, 1113 East Franklin Avenue #202, Minneapolis, MN 55404-2977. (612) 870-7555.

Email for Margo is margogeffen@greatneighborhoodsdc.com

Laban Ohito Gets Married!

2008-12-09T17:36:00.000-08:00

The Executive Director of Hawthorne Neighborhood Council, Laban Ohito, recently married in Manila, Philippines. This blog posting will be updated as more details become available, such as the name of his lovely wife.

Congratulations, Laban.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) application for the NCE Commission

2008-12-01T08:35:00.000-08:00

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is accepting applications from residents for one position on the newly created Neighborhood and Community Engagement Commission.
The role of the commission will be to shape how the City engages its residents and works with neighborhood and community organizations, as well as oversee programming details and funding for neighborhood revitalization work.

The resident who will be appointed by the MPRB on January 2, 2009 will be part of the 16-member commission. Of the remaining members, eight residents will be selected by neighborhood organizations and seven will be appointed by the Mayor and Council Members of Minneapolis.

The application deadline for the MPRB appointed commission position is December 19, 2008. Applicants are required to be Minneapolis residents who do not hold a current election certificate. Current MPRB employees are not eligible. Applications are available at: www.minneapolisparks.org (click on news item)·

612-230-6400
MPRB Customer Service Area,
2117 West River Road, Minneapolis, 55411
MPRB Recreation Centers

Sincerely,
Annie Young
Citywide Park Commissioner

Family Memory/Scrap Book Event at Farview Park: October 11th

2008-10-06T19:49:00.000-07:00

We are still signing up families to participate in next weekends Family Memory/Scrap Book event! This event is by donation and there will be Memory/Scrap Book Making Supplies provided! We still have openings left and we want families to participate in this! LUNCH will also be served. Pizza from Broadway Pizza! And refreshments have been provided from Holiday Stationstores in North Minneapolis.

The details are:
Saturday - October 11th
12:00 - 4:00
Memory/Scrap Book Making event (all of the supplies will be provided, families just bring momentos, photos and their memories!)
Farview Park on 29th and Lyndale Avenue North
For more information or to sign up please contact Brian with All About Family via email: kelley01@visi.com

Thanks!
Sincerely,
All About Family
http://www.allaboutfam.org
kelley01@visi.com

Keynote Speech, Inspector Mike Martin, Commander Of The Fourth Precinct

2008-10-04T15:52:00.001-07:00

Photo By John Hoff

At the September 25 Hawthorne Annual Meeting, Inspector Mike Martin gave the keynote address, which focused on the factors predisposing youth to gang affiliation.

According to Martin, there was a study performed in 1927 by Fredrick Thrasher, and all subsequent studies--often performed at great cost--continue to reiterate with Thrasher learned in the late 1920s. Here are the factors:

1.) Deteriorating neighborhoods.

2.) Inadequate recreation.

3.) Ineffective religion.

4.) Lack of parental control.

5.) Poverty.

Martin discussed each of the factors, touching only lightly on the religion factor. Martin said what's important is "spirituality," a simple sense there are things bigger than yourself which turn you toward moral behavior. He urged residents to try more approaches with kids than simply calling 911 when they are hanging out on corners.

Martin also took questions from the audience, addressing topics like more use of mobile cameras and police/community relations.

Check Out THIS Image!

2008-10-04T13:39:00.000-07:00

Blog Image, click for link

Click here to read a blog entry which expresses approval of Hawthorne taking on CitiMortgage, and contains the funny image you see image above!

One can't help but be reminded of something Chairman Peter Teachout said during his annual report: This year, the Hawthorne Neighborhood took a few baby steps. And a scary giant fled in fear."

MinniAppleseed Is Excited To Work With Hawthorne Neighborhood

2008-10-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

Photo By John Hoff

Members of the "MinniAppleseed" project met with the Housing Committee on October 1, and answered questions. Though many tough and direct questions were asked, ultimately the idea of a "partnership" was embraced by the Housing Committee. The "MinniAppleseed" project concerns construction of a "passive energy" house, like those which have become increasingly common in Europe.

The members of "MinniAppleseed" are excited to work with Hawthorne, as one can see from this blog posting, click here.

Above, a tree in the heart of the Eco Village area. Behind the tree is 415 31st Ave. N., scheduled for demolition in the near future.

League Of Women Voters Assisted With Board Election

2008-10-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Photo By John Hoff

Here's a photo from September 25 of two members of the League of Women Voters, assisting with the Board Election.

Testifying About The Impact Of Phone Book Dumping

2008-10-04T12:29:00.000-07:00

Photo by 612 Authentic

Ed Kohler, pictured to the right, is a popular blogger who often concentrates on urban issues. Click to check out his blog, "The Deets," if you think you can handle it.

(Ed's motto is, "You want The Deets? You can't HANDLE The Deets.")

Ed has done so much research on phone book dumping that he's made himself into something of an expert on this emerging urban issue. Ed came to the Housing Committee Meeting on Wednesday, October 1 to speak briefly about the impact of unwanted phone books, and stated lobbying efforts by the phone book industry were preventing the passage of legislation to prevent unwanted phone books, such as "opt in" instead of "opt out," which is Ed's main thrust on the issue.

Unwanted phone books ("phone book dumping") is now an item on November's agenda of the Housing Committee, so more facts and information will be coming out.

Preparing For The Demolition of 415 31st Ave. N.

2008-10-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

Photos By John Hoff

On Friday, a crew from Bauer Bros Inc. was at 415 31st Ave. N., the well-known property in the Eco Village area which was the subject of the lawsuit--now thankfully settled--with CitiMortgage.

The crew's foreman said little of salvage value was left in the house, with the possible exception of a furnace, which was removed. The foreman showed off a list of many houses in North Minneapolis, all of which were scheduled for the salvage of useful items and materials prior to demolition.

Asked when the demolition of "415" would take place, the foreman looked at his list and said, "Currently, it's scheduled for a week from Monday." That would be October 13!

Hawthorne has waited for this a long time!

The "Blue Tarp House" Goes Down

2008-10-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

Photo By John Hoff

After standing for more than 100 years, the "Blue Tarp House" at 2957 Lyndale Ave. N. went down in a single afternoon. Trucks were steadily hauling away rubble as of yesterday.

The infamous light blue tarp on the roof had become ragged over the years, flapping in the wind and providing little resistance to rain. The property had become a kind of "negative gateway" to Hawthorne, the first thing people saw when they entered from the north on Lyndale Ave.

But now it's gone. If you want proof things really are transforming in Hawthorne, this might be considered one dramatic piece of evidence.

A Year Of Progress: The Speech Of Chair Peter Teachout, September 25, 2008

2008-09-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

Photo By Pam Patrek

Here is the written text of the speech of Chairman Peter Teachout, delivered September 25.

Teachout was dressed in formal attire, of course, but this photo from a Rebuilding Together event is a better likeness of the real Peter we know and love: a man who digs in and gets his hands dirty to improve the neighborhood.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello, I’m Peter Teachout, Chair of the Hawthorne Area Community Council. I haven’t held that position very long, so you’re in luck, that probably means a shorter speech.

I do have a year’s worth of progress to highlight and share with you, but consider for a moment why we are all here. We’re here because this neighborhood is important to us. But, really, isn’t a neighborhood only important because, underlying everything, is the fact that each of us needs a place to feel safe and call home?

So let me tell you about something that happened in my home on Monday.

My daughter, McKenna, is just learning how to walk, and took four whole steps by herself. And the way it happened was I said, “Come to Daddy.” And that didn’t really interest her. But when I held out my cell phone, McKenna was suddenly willing to walk. Actually, she almost ran.

I think our neighborhood is like my daughter who is just starting to walk. Even though there are many in this room who have lived in Hawthorne for decades, in some ways this time is the very beginning of what our neighborhood will become.

We have many empty houses. Who comes to own these houses, who comes to live in them, whether the houses are renovated or pretty much left as they are or knocked down…these next few years will determine the character of our neighborhood for a long time.

The way I look at this community could be the way my daughter looks at walking. We can’t see this neighborhood as full of obstacles. We have to look at Hawthorne as full of opportunity. We have the opportunity to change the neighborhood we live in for the better by capitalizing on our diversity and affordability.

Here in Hawthorne, we take our steps and make our progress through committees. I’m going to tell you about the progress which our four main committees have made.

This year, our Housing Committee has helped Hawthorne establish many new relationships with various city and county departments, the Northside Home Fund, the Housing Preservation Project, and many partner organizations that form the Northside Community Reinvestment Coalition.

Hawthorne is a founding member of the NCRC, which has been engaging banks and financial institutions around the issue of the foreclosure crisis. (Would any Housing Committee members who are here please stand and be recognized?)

You hear about the foreclosure crisis all the time. And it is indeed a crisis as people are in danger of losing their homes. Hawthorne has worked through its partnership with NCRC to prevent foreclosures.

The tireless and passionate work of Housing Director Jeff Skrenes must be credited, here. Jeff is constantly plotting even more ways to reach out to people and prevent foreclosure, and keep people in Hawthorne from losing their property. When you’re talking to Jeff, even casual conversations often turn to in-depth discussion of mortgage issues.

Jeff lives, breathes, eats and sleeps mortgages and our neighborhood has benefited from that kind of focus. National publications like USA TODAY have taken note of Jeff’s work in conjunction with the CitiMortgage lawsuit.

I’ll be saying a bit at the end about that lawsuit. The good news is we sued and we got a settlement and people all over the nation took notice.

I’d like to take a moment to ask Jeff to stand up and be recognized for his heroic efforts on behalf of the Hawthorne neighborhood. Also, Mark Ireland, would you please stand? Mark is the attorney who helped us bring about this victory. (Editor's note: During the actual speech, Teachout made note of the fact Ireland was not present, but acknowledged Ireland along with Skrenes)

I look back on this year and I can hardly believe all this happened in the span of just one year.

In the last year, the Crime and Safety Committee worked with the Police Buy Back Program to help place more police where they are needed. This committee worked to coordinate National Night Out efforts and the Mobile Block Party to help neighbors connect and discuss their concerns for the development of the neighborhood.

All those in the Crime and Safety Committee? Would you please stand and be
recognized?

This year, we helped shut down open air drug markets at certain intersections. We have much work left to do and need help from our city officials. They’ve been helping us and we are very thankful. All those who work for the City of Minneapolis, if you could please stand and be
recognized.

The Crime and Safety Committee is also committed to providing support to community activities and projects like the Hawthorne Clean Sweep. Another innovative project has been the Hawthorne Can-Do Bookaway. This program gives away free books to children and families to nourish and strengthen the young minds in our community.

Bryan Thoa Worra has been a driving force behind this endeavor. Bryan? Could you please stand?

Moving on from the Crime and Safety Committee…and I know it’s hard to move on from that, since these issues are so often on the front burner.

But focusing now on the Environment Committee, this committee continued to do work to promote bike lanes and rainwater gardens and encourage high standards for Hawthorne’s environmental safety for residents. Could the members of the Environmental Committee stand?

This is an extremely active committee. They’re very active with Clean Sweep.

I hope every time I say the words “clean sweep,” people are filled a desire to take charge of cleaning up their block. Clean Sweep is a lot of fun. How often can you take a trophy photo with a blown out tire and some yellow bags of litter?

Of course, one way to be an environmentalist is to use a home that’s already built, instead of going out and building another one. This year, several old and existing homes in our neighborhood were part of the St. Paul and Minneapolis Home Tours, and were promoted as examples of the best in Minneapolis.

Here in Hawthorne, we have houses. We have affordable housing stock everywhere. Tell all your friends. Get them to look around Hawthorne and buy into our neighborhood.

But we have some troublesome properties. Fortunately, this year Hawthorne was able to arrange for the demolition of some of those.

The role of business is essential to our progress. This year, the Hawthorne Business Committee has worked to build connections with the business leaders of the Hawthorne Neighborhood.

We plan to bring more regional and national attention to many of the amazing businesses we have, ranging from the world’s largest lutefisk factory to companies such as Kemps and Diamond Vogel paints and emerging businesses such as Taylor Sound that are working to revitalize our
neighborhood.

The Business Committee has worked hard to establish a new façade improvement program to assist our businesses in providing a great impression for visitors and residents. (Would the member of the Business Committee please stand?)

The Hawthorne Neighborhood Council has continued to support key efforts such as the Hawthorne Huddle with partners like General Mills. We love our partner, General Mills. I have three children and they love their breakfast cereal, and General Mills makes a lot of that stuff. General Mills brings you products like Cheerios, Lucky Charms, Wheaties. When you’re shopping in the store, please remember who our corporate friends are.

Another of our valuable friends is Farview Park. We are enjoying their facilities right now, as we enjoy them many times a year. These facilities help us connect residents and community leaders with each other, where we can discuss issues ranging from education to youth mentoring, to working with the media to the role of the arts and emergency preparedness.

Paul Jaeger has been the force that keeps Farview Park such a useful
resource. Thank you, Paul Jaeger.

While you work and play and enjoy your homes, your Hawthorne Neighborhood Council represents you at key meetings and events, such as the West Broadway Business and Area Coalition—including the West Broadway Alive! Program—and the Northside Marketing Task Force and testimony before the Third Ward CARE meetings and the Minneapolis City Council on key issues ranging from problem properties to the effectiveness of the neighborhood revitalization program.

None of the things I’ve highlighted would have been possible this year, or any other year, without the support of amazing volunteers and community members like those in the audience tonight. Whether this is your first Hawthorne neighborhood event, or your 400th, we need your continued support as we face the challenges ahead.

In closing, I’d like to highlight a challenge we overcome. We filed a lawsuit against CitiMortgage for predatory lending. The lawsuit was unique in the nation. But it was based on established legal precedent about negligent lending.

The suit was recently settled and, as the Star Tribune said on Monday, we made CitiMortgage eat a $200,000 mortgage and we got a piece of property needed for the Eco-Village development for just $18,500, basically the cost of the lot.

I want to point out CitiMortgage has admitted no wrongdoing. But draw your own conclusions about who came out on top.

The Hawthorne Neighborhood took a few baby steps, and a scary giant fled in fear. Can you imagine what our future holds? We could become the place everybody wants to move, and people will wish they had bought property here when prices were so low.

We can do it, working together. This is only the beginning. We are still growing.

It is an honor to be your chair, and to present the highlights of the progress we have made together in the last year.

And now I’d like to introduce Laban Ohito.

A Place To Call "Home" And Feel Safe

2008-09-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

Photos By John Hoff

Chairman Peter Teachout put it this way in his annual report: Neighborhoods are only important because, underlying everything, is the need for people to have a place to call "home" and feel safe.

Recognition For Housing Director Jeff Skrenes And Attorney Mark Ireland (We Settled With CitiMortgage! YEAH!!!!!)

2008-09-27T21:31:00.000-07:00

Photo By John Hoff

During his Annual Report, HNA Chairman Peter Teachout gave special recognition the the efforts of Jeff Skrenes and Mark Ireland (not pictured) for their work on the lawsuit with CitiMortgage. News regarding a settlement of the mortgage hit the StarTribune a few days before the meeting.

As a result of the settlement, the whole annual meeting had a celebratory and historical feeling. Here is a link to an article about the lawsuit in none other than USA TODAY, click here. This action in the courts was on the radar of the nation, a unique lawsuit based on "predatory lending."

What battles will be next for Skrenes and Ireland? Only time will tell.

The Great Hawthorne CanDo Bookaway!

2008-09-27T21:27:00.001-07:00

Photo By John Hoff

Here, Peter Teachout, Jr., age 6, selects a book from the Great Hawthorne CanDo Bookaway! Childcare was provided during the meeting.

More Scenes From The Hawthorne Annual Meeting

2008-09-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

Photos By John Hoff

More scenes from the Annual Meeting.