Public Hearing on Neighborhood Stabilization Program on February 15

When:	Tuesday, February 15 1:30 p.m.
Where:	City Hall, Room 317 350 S 5th St
Contact:	Cherie Shoquist Foreclosure Recovery Coordinator (612) 673-5078 cherie.shoquist@ci.minneapolis.mn.us
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/foreclosure/nsp.asp

NOTICE: Neighborhood Stabilization Program 3 (NSP3)

Minneapolis will submit applications for $600,000 to Minnesota Housing Finance Agency and for $2,671,275 to HUD in Neighborhood Stabilization Program 3 (NSP3) funds under HERA, as amended, and the Recovery Act, as amended, and an additional allocation of funds provided by the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (Dodd-Frank Act). The approximately $3.3 million will be primarily used to rehabilitate foreclosed and vacant properties for single family home ownership or affordable rental (2- 4 unit buildings) in neighborhoods highly impacted by foreclosure. For more information, visit the Neighborhood Stabilization Program 3 (NSP3) web page at: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/foreclosure/NSP_3.asp

The public comment period for Minneapolis NSP3 is February 1 – February 15, 2011.

The Community Development Committee of the Minneapolis City Council will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, February 15, 2011, at 1:30 p.m. in Room 317, City Hall, 350 S 5th St, to receive public comments on an amendment to the 2010 Department of Housing & Urban Development Consolidated Plan relating to an application for Neighborhood Stabilization Program 3 funding.

Additionally, a Public Information Meeting will be held Wednesday, February 9, 2011, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Glover-Sudduth Center, 2100 Plymouth Avenue North, Minneapolis.

For sign language interpreting services or other ADA, Title II access accommodations, call (612) 673-2626 TTY or (612) 673-3220.

Please submit comments to Cherie Shoquist, Foreclosure Recovery Coordinator, at (612) 673-5078, or cherie.shoquist@ci.minneapolis.mn.us

PLEASE NOTE: YOU MAY WISH TO DISREGARD THIS MESSAGE IF YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD IS NOT HIGHLY IMPACTED BY FORECLOSURE. HUD requires funds to be targeted strategically in areas of greatest need as determined by HUD. Jordan, Hawthorne, Folwell and potentially Bryant, Central, Phillips East, Midtown Phillips, Phillips West, Ventura Village, Audubon Park, Holland, Logan Park and Windom Park have been identified as areas of greatest need for NSP3 funds. Target areas must meet HUD NSP3 criteria and have eligible vacant and foreclosed properties available to meet the HUD requirement for impact in the area.

Approximately $30 million in NSP1 and NSP2 funds are being targeted more broadly in all Minneapolis neighborhoods highly impacted by foreclosures. Please see the NSP web page for more information: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/foreclosure/nsp.asp

Thank you.

Cherie Shoquist, Foreclosure Recovery Coordinator
City of Minneapolis Community Planning & Economic Development
105 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 200
Minneapolis, MN 55401
cherie.shoquist@ci.minneapolis.mn.us

Phone: (612) 673-5078
Fax: (612) 673-5212

City of Minneapolis hiring 3-1-1 Customer Service Agents

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/jobs/

Application Dates

Exam #20772 Open Wednesday, January 26, 2011 & Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Salary Range

Step 1 $17.14
Step 2 $18.71
Step 3 $19.42
Step 4 $20.11
Step 5 $20.85
Step 6 $21.65
Step 7 $23.64

Position Information

The Customer Service Agent I will receive and process all non-emergency calls for service; including government services, city services and all Blue Page number calls from residents, businesses and visitors inquiring about services, report problems or check on the status of issues. The hours of the Call Center are to 6:45 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, with shifts available.

Job Duties
(Including, but not limited to the following)

• Answer the City's 3-1-1 line and provide service.
• Provide callers with employee telephone numbers, transferring them to other extensions for assistance when necessary.
• Answer questions callers have regarding City services, providing directions to City facilities, hours of operation, etc.
• Deal directly with the public over the phone in giving out general information, answering questions and gathering facts and pertinent information regarding various City Services, problems and complaints.
• Provide general information and telephone numbers for various City, County, State and Federal offices and other agencies.
• Answer employee questions about internal functions and procedures and provide solutions to problems. May refer more complex questions to appropriate staff.
• Relay calls of an emergency nature to 9-1-1 emergency communication personnel.
• Enter information obtained from callers onto a computerized intake form and electronically forward requests to appropriate City departments for response and resolution.
• Provide information regarding City programs and services, special events and other City sponsored activities.
• Maintain various records, books and ledgers.
• Monitor office supply inventory and initiate requisitions.
• Perform activities related to processing customer requests, i.e., searching courthouse records for property ownership verification, collecting registration fees, answering and updating calls for service, answering questions from field personnel via telephone and computer terminal, etc.
• Maintain and update the inter-departmental City telephone directory.
• Determine priority of calls based on the nature of the event and which agency should respond to the call.

Required Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Required Experience

Two (2) years of high-volume telephone traffic, which has included experience in customer service and/or with work order management software.

Equivalency

An equivalent combination of education and highly related experience in a similar environment may be considered.

Background Check

The City has determined that a thorough Police Department background check / investigation, criminal background check, and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be further considered for the position.

Drug & Alcohol Testing

All job applicants must pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test once a conditional offer of employment has been made. Applicants will be required to sign a notification and consent form prior to undergoing drug and alcohol testing. Applicants who do not consent to undergo drug and alcohol testing will not be required to do so and the City will withdraw the conditional job offer resulting in the job applicant no longer being considered for the position.

Other Qualifications

• Excellent customer service skills.
• Knowledge of practices and procedures of computerized data entry and retrieval.
• Working knowledge of computers and computer applications.
• Knowledge of office practices and procedures and standard office equipment.
• Knowledge of the functions and services of various City departments.
• Proficient at keyboarding and the ability to analyze situations to determine what services or information is being requested in order to enter the correct information into the required software to get an appropriate answer or enter the service request.
• Ability to analyze information in the City ¿knowledge base¿ software.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with the general public under high volume conditions while remaining courteous and tactful.
• Good listening skills along with the ability to learn quickly and apply.
• Ability to solve problems.
• Good reading/comprehension skills.
• Bi-lingual skills a plus (Spanish, Somali or Hmong).

Selection Process

The City of Minneapolis reserves the right to limit the number of candidates in the exam process. The examination will consist of a computer-based multi-tasking test 100%. Candidates must achieve a passing score of 70% in order to continue in the selection process. It is to your advantage to be as complete and thorough in your application as possible.

Applications Accepted

Dates:1/26/11 & 2/9/11

Contact: Call (612) 673-2282 for an application or apply on-line at www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/jobs/.

Email Address:Daniel.villarreal@ci.minneapolis.mn.us

List Expiration

ELIGIBLE LIST WILL EXPIRE 6 MONTHS AFTER POSTING.

AA/EOE

The City of Minneapolis is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

2011 Winter Walkoff starts February 1

url:	http://bikewalkweek.org/winterwalkoff

Twin Cities Bike Walk Week is hosting the 2011 Winter Walkoff, beginning next Tuesday, February 1st. Folks are encouraged to walk, at least once a day, for the entire month of February. Registered winter walkers will receive discounts from local businesses that are supporting winter walking in the Twin Cities. Register for the Winter Walkoff at: www.bikewalkweek.org/winterwalkoff.

Minneapolis property owners are also being encouraged to take advantage of warmer weather to clear sidewalks of ice and snow. Sidewalks should be cleaned to their full width and down to the bare pavement. Minneapolis ordinance requires sidewalks to be cleared within 24 hours for houses and duplexes and four daytime hours for apartment and commercial buildings. Help get the word out by sharing this snow shoveling flyer (pdf), lending a hand to neighbors, and reporting sidewalks which are not cleared.

Neighborhoods, USA Awards Application Deadline Approaching

url:	http://www.nusa.org/awardapplications.htm

The deadline for receipt of applications for Neighborhoods, USA's awards is fast approaching. Applications must be postmarked by February 15, 2011 in order to be eligible for consideration.

Neighborhoods, USA will be presenting awards in the following categories:

• Neighborhood of the Year Award
• Best Neighborhood Program Award
• Neighborhood Newsletter Competition
• Who's Who in America's Neighborhoods

For more information on the awards and to obtain applications visit http://www.nusa.org/awardapplications.htm.

Please verify, prior to submitting, that each application includes the application fee (if applicable). Applications should be mailed to:

Robert Gibbons, Awards Program Chair
2011 Neighborhood Newsletter Competition
1950 E. Washington Ave., #1
Madison, WI 53704-5278

Announcement of awards will be made during the 2011 NUSA Conference to be held May 25-28, 2010 in Anchorage, Alaska.

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For additional information or questions regarding Neighborhoods, USA awards please contact Robert Gibbons via email at Robert.gibbons1@charter.net or by phone at 608-244-0582.

Minneapolis resident survey phone calls begin Monday, Jan. 31

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ news/20110126ResidentSurvey.asp

Beginning Monday, Jan. 31 and continuing through February, the City of Minneapolis will survey its residents to get their perspectives about the quality of services the City provides. Approximately 1,100 residents will complete the telephone survey, which is being conducted by the National Research Center, Inc., an independent research firm. People contacted to complete the survey will be selected randomly, with the goal of reaching a diverse cross-section of Minneapolis residents.

If you are contacted to participate in the survey, please take the few minutes necessary to provide your honest opinions about how we’re doing in Minneapolis. For most people, the survey will take about 20 minutes. The City of Minneapolis is eager to use the results to help create a Minneapolis with the best quality of life for everyone. Please pick up the phone and participate.

Results from the survey are used in the business planning efforts of City departments. The survey will be translated for people who prefer to take it in Spanish, Hmong, Somali, Laotian, Oromo or Vietnamese.

The City has conducted similar surveys in 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2008; it’s part of Minneapolis’ ongoing effort to improve services and involve people in their local government. More information and past survey results are available on the City’s website.

Public Invited to Help Shape Peavey Plaza Revitalization on February 1

When;	Tuesday, February 1 6:00 – 7:00 p.m
Where:	Orchestra Hall 1111 Nicollet Mall
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/ 20110125PeavyPlaza.asp

The City of Minneapolis is hosting an open house where the public can give input on shaping the revitalization of Peavey Plaza. oslund.and.associates, the landscape architecture firm chosen for the project, will lead the visioning session. At this session, the public will be asked what they like about the Plaza and what they would like to see in a revitalized Peavey Plaza. The information will be gathered and used in the design phase.

The event will take place Tuesday, Feb. 1, from 6-7 p.m. at Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, in Minneapolis. The public can also give input via an online survey beginning Friday, Jan. 28 or by sending an email to peaveyplaza@oaala.com. The link to the online survey can also be found on the Oslund homepage or on Oslund’s Facebook page.

The first phase of the project involves gathering information about the plaza and programming activities as well as input from users and stakeholders. Oslund will then develop concepts for the redevelopment of the Plaza that provide maximum improvement in design quality. Design ideas will be showcased at an event early spring with final design concepts presented in the summer. The second phase includes final design work and construction. The groundbreaking is planned for spring 2012 with a grand opening scheduled for summer 2013.

Oslund’s team includes Charles Birnbaum of The Cultural Landscape Foundation, M.P. Friedberg, original designer of the plaza, Dan Euser Waterarchitecture and Shuler & Shook Lighting Design. The team’s portfolios of additional projects include the World Trade Center Memorial in New York, Mellon Square Park in Pittsburgh and Battery Park City in New York.

The Minneapolis City Council approved the selection of oslund.and.associates as the landscape architect for the revitalization of Peavey Plaza in November 2010. The firm was selected for the quality of its design for projects such as Gold Medal Park and Target Plaza in Minneapolis as well as its ability to lead projects involving extensive public participation, such as the new I-35W bridge project in Minneapolis.

The City and the Minnesota Orchestra are collaborating in the revitalization of Peavey Plaza, which is adjacent to Orchestra Hall, in conjunction with the Orchestra’s $45 million renovation of Orchestra Hall. The Peavey revitalization will include maximum improvements in Peavey Plaza’s function and usability, while respecting the Plaza’s original intent.

Information on the project can be found at www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/peavey_plaza.asp or contact Beth Grosen, (612) 673-5002 or by email at beth.grosen@ci.minneapolis.mn.us.

Transform a vacant lot into a community garden

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/ 20110118CommunityGardens.asp

With seed catalogues arriving in the mail and flower and garden shows around the corner, now is a good time to look into establishing a community garden. The City of Minneapolis has 13 vacant lots available for qualifying groups to lease for community gardens. These City-owned lots were selected because they are not appropriate for development. This means that they will remain available for years of gardening even as the economy changes and redevelopment picks up.

The Community Garden Pilot Program began in 2010 with 18 lots to help make Minneapolis more beautiful, provide healthy food and build community. Five of the lots are already leased to community groups. The City of Minneapolis supports community gardens in its commitment to promoting access to good nutrition, improving the ecological footprint of the city, encouraging active and healthy living and providing spaces for human interaction, food production and beauty in our daily lives. In addition to these lots, Minneapolis already has about 100 community gardens throughout the city.

Lots are available first-come, first-served to qualifying groups. Experienced community garden groups may be eligible for three- to five-year leases, while groups gardening for the first time will start with one-year leases. A qualifying group will be a not-for-profit or a group with a not-for-profit sponsor. The garden will need to have liability insurance. Applicants should be ready to discuss the layout of the community garden, how it will be managed and how it will engage and benefit the community.

The Community Garden Pilot Program is part of Homegrown Minneapolis. Homegrown Minneapolis is an initiative of the City of Minneapolis to help grow, sell, distribute and eat more healthy, locally grown foods within the city and the surrounding region. A community garden program is one of nine Homegrown Minneapolis recommendations adopted by the City Council.

For more information on the Homegrown Minneapolis Community Gardens Pilot Program, visit www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/dhfs/homegrown-home.asp or call (612) 673-2597.

The Lake Hiawatha Heart Warmer on February 12

When:	Saturday, February 12th 12:00 noon – 3:00 p.m.
Where:	Lake Hiawatha Park 2701 E. 44th St
Information:	jessica.LHHW@gmail.com
url:	http://www.standish-ericsson.org/top.html

Free Horse & Sleigh Rides

Free Hotdogs & Tofu dogs

Free Hot Cider, Coffee, & Cookies

• Ice skating games & prizes
• Raffle drawings throughout the event
• Kids DJ with Games & Prizes
• Live Music & Dance
• Bonfire with marshmallows for toasting
• Face Painting & Arts and Crafts
• Ice Golf

This completely free event is made possible through contributions by local, independently owned businesses in the Standish-Ericsson, Longfellow, and Nokomis community. Keep our neighborhoods strong and vibrant by supporting local businesses with your patronization.

Support your community, shop locally.

Hosted by Lake Hiawatha Recreation Council
2701 E. 44th Street, Minneapolis

How to Start Your Own Community 365 workshop on February 2

When:	Wednesday, February 2 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Where:	Vine Arts Gallery 2637 27th Ave S
url:	http://www.vineartscenter.com/
Suggested Donation:	$10/person

Powderhorn365 will be hosting a seminar at the Vine Arts Gallery on how to start and maintain a community photography project. A 365 project would be perfect for your neighborhood, school, nonprofit, workplace, circle of friends...the sky is the limit! Space is limited, so please pre-register at the gallery or email info@powderhorn365.com for more information.

Midwinter Mixer on February 18

When:	Friday, February 18 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Where:	3000 East Calhoun Parkway
url:	http://www.eastcalhoun.org/events/midwinter-mixer-1

The ECCO Board invites East Calhoun residents to embrace the outdoors at the Midwinter Mixer.

Festivities under the full Moon!

Bring your cross-country skis and ski around Lake of the Isles on the groomed trails from the City of Lakes Loppet. 

Or bring boots, snow shoes or sleds for winter activities on the lake.

Cookies, hot cocoa and kid’s games provided.

Check our website for updates in case of severe weather.

For more information visit http://www.eastcalhoun.org/events/midwinter-mixer-1

Experience fairy tale magic at the Cinderella Ball on February 5

When:	Saturday, February 5 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Where:	Columbia Manor 3300 Central Ave NE
url:	http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=52&prid=1441
Cost:	$8 per child
Contact:	Angela Schneider Temporary Writer & Multimedia Reporter 612-230-6410 aschneider@minenapolisparks.org Heidi Miller Recreation Supervisor 612-370-4927 hmiller@minneapolisparks.org

Put on your prettiest princess dress and enjoy a night where fairy tales come to life at the annual Cinderella Ball on Saturday, Feb. 5, at Columbia Manor, 3300 Central Ave. NE. Whether you come by foot, car or pumpkin carriage, be sure to arrive when the clock strikes six, as festivities are from 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Guests can wear royal ball attire and pose for pictures with Cinderella, Snow White, Prince Charming and a fairy godmother. Kiss a toad or create your own royal prince or princess crown.

This is a parent/child event for children ages two through six; please limit two adults with each family. Space is limited, so register early. Registrations will be taken until Jan. 28, or until event is full. Cost is $8 per child.

3rd Annual President's Day Walk on February 19

When:	Saturday, February 19 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Starts at:	Firefighters Hall & Museum 664 22nd Ave NE

From George Washington to Barack Obama, we Love our presidents in Northeast!

Northeast Minneapolis is celebrating Presidents's Day in an exciting way!

Northeast has always had a special connection to Presidents' Day because of the many streets named after our presidents. Join your neighbors for the two-mile "We Love Our Presidents" Walk and Celebration.

We start at 10:00 a.m. at the Firefighters Hall & Museum, 664 22nd Ave NE, hike along 22nd Ave to Windom Park, 2251 Hayes St NE, for a warm up stop and hot cocoa and continue on to Northeast Middle School. Learn presidential and Northeast trivia along the walk. The celebration conludes at Northeast with fun activities and a chili lunch. The program is free but donations are accepted. A free shuttle will bring walkers back to the Firefighters Museum after the program.

For further information, call (612) 668-1515.

4th Annual Art Sled Rally on January 30

Art Sled Workshop:	Saturday, January 29 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where:	Powderhorn Park Community Center gym 3400 15th Ave S
Art Sled Rally	Sunday, January 30 2:00 p.m.
Where:	Powderhorn Park 3400 15th Ave S
url:	workshop: http://www.artsledrally.com/workshops/ rally: http://www.artsledrally.com/

PRESENTED BY SOUTH SIXTEENTH HIGH JINKS

Your double-decked, winged, jumping and fire breathing sleds hit the slopes of Powderhorn Park!

What?
Watch the antics of outrageous never-tried-before art sleds*, or drop in yourself with a contraption of your own. Each sled and its creator will take to a decorated hill accompanied by throngs of spectators. Live music, a warming tent, hot chocolate and coffee will round out the afternoon’s activities.

How?
There will be one more Art Sled Workshop at Powderhorn Park Community Center’s gym, on Saturday, January 29, from 11am to 4pm,. If you have one, bring a plastic or wooden sled to use as a base.

Of course, feel free to design and build a sled on your own, and show up with your contraption on the decorated northwestern slopes of Powderhorn Park, Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 2pm. Use cardboard, wood, steel, fabric… anything goes on ice. Check our gallery if you need some inspiration.

Why?
Sledding is one of the cheapest, easiest, and liveliest of winter activities. It’s unpredictable and thrilling to watch, and the geography and spirited character of our neighborhood makes something like an “Art Sled Rally” entirely possible.

Who?
This project is presented by artists and neighborhood residents in collaboration with Powderhorn Park, the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, and the Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association.

*Art Sled: any contraption built to slide down a snowy slope in the most fashionable, ridiculous or artistic way. Outrigger sleds, monster sleds, rocket sleds, tandem sleds, sleds from the High Veldt, leopard-skinned or snake-linked sleds, sleds that fly, hop, or go uphill, and sleds that do a few other things.

2nd annual "Love Loring" event on February 11

When:	Friday, February 11 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Where:	Woman's Club of Minneapolis 410 Oak Grove St Parking is available adjacent to and across the street from the club
Cost:	Advance Tickets Required $50 Call CLPC to purchase (612) 874-9002
url:	www.loringpark.org

A Community Social Event

• heavy hors d'oeuvres
• desserts
• cash bar
• silent auction
• Music by Local Artists

Citizens for a Loring Park Community (CLPC) is a 501(c)(3) organization. A portion of your ticket is tax deductible.

The Mission of CLPC is to cultivate continuing leadership and help a diverse neighborhood realize a more harmonious, thriving, and beautiful community.

South Minneapolis Housing Fair on February 26

When:	Saturday, February 26 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where:	South High School 3131 S 19th Ave
url:	http://www.housingfair.org/

The South Minneapolis Housing Fair, in its 17th year, will be held Saturday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at South High School. This event, sponsored in part by several NRP neighborhood organizations, serves as a great way to meet reputable contractors for even the smallest of jobs. Helpful workshops are offered, too. For a list of last year’s participating contractors and new Fair information as it develops, visit www.housingfair.org.

CARAG Chilly Chili Fest on February 27

When:	Sunday, February 27 12:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Where:	Bryant Square Park Rec Center 3101 Bryant Ave S
url:	http://www.carag.org/calendar/calendar.htm

Hot chili, door prizes, food drive, & fun for all.

Bummed out by all the snow and cold weather? Get over to Bryant Square Park on Sunday for a bowl of good, hot chili! For only $3 you get a bowl of chili, fixings, a cookie, and a beverage. Proceeds from the event go to Joyce Uptown Food Shelf, which is located in CARAG.

• Fabulous door prizes from area businesses
• Food & fun for all ages
• Info about CARAG events & activities
• Food drive (bring non-perishable food items)

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Camden Winterfest & Chili Cook-Off on February 5

When:	Saturday, February 5 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where:	Bohanon Park 4917 Bryant Ave N
url:	http://www.lindbohanon.org/
Contact:	Amy at (612) 588-7641 or check out http://www.lindbohanon.org/ for info and Chili Cook-Off application.

Camden Winterfest and Chili Cook-off! is right around the corner! Mark your calendars for some more winter fun!

Gifts for the first 10 chili entries!

Fill out the Chili Entry Form and email us by January 31st at lindbohanonna@aol.com

Prizes for the top two winners!

Fun for the whole family!

• Snowball launchers
• Free skating
• Snow golf
• Chili judging
• Hot dogs
• smores
• music
• prizes

All this wintry fun $5 for attendees 16 and older.

(Yes, that is a Snow Kone maker in the background!)

NRP Policy Board Meeting on January 24

When:	Monday, January 24 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Where:	Hennepin County Government Center 300 South 6th Street Room C-2350
url:	http://www.nrp.org/R2/AboutNRP/PB/ PBAgenda2011/PBA20110124.html

The agenda and supporting materials for the Monday, January 24th meeting of the NRP Policy Board are now available on the NRP website. A link to the page is provided below for your convenience. The NRP Policy Board meets once a month from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in Room C-2350 of the Hennepin County Government Center, 300 South 6th Street.

http://www.nrp.org/R2/AboutNRP/PB/PBAgenda2011/PBA20110124.html

Planning Meeting for 2011 Sustainable Communities Conference on January 26

When:	Wednesday, January 26 6:30 – 8:30pm
Where:	First Universalist Church 3400 Dupont Ave S (they have a parking lot and are close to bus lines)
url:	http://tinyurl.com/69xlpel

Please join us for our fun and interactive planning meeting next Wednesday, or if you can’t make it, please fill out our quick survey, or give me a call at 612-250-0389 to offer your thoughts.

Meet with other volunteers from neighborhoods, congregations and schools to plan our April 8 & 9 Conference to link local green teams with their peers to share project resources. We will have snacks and refreshments.

6:30	Introductions - Everyone will share the kinds of community projects they are working on.
7:00	Review our draft conference agenda and suggesting speakers and workshop topics Fri April 8 Local Government Sustainability Workshop Draft Agenda Sat April 9 - Neighborhood Sustainability Conference Draft Agenda
7:30	Break into small groups to plan next steps Events Planning and Logistics Team - Angie Daus PR/Communications Team- Vanessa Schoenecker Outreach / Peer Learning Communities Team – Cynthia Chapan Data base team - Lynn Gitellis Speaker’s Bureau Team – Nicole Lynsky

THANKS so much for helping our 2011 conference to be a great success!

Questions? Please call

Sean Gosiewski, Program Director
Alliance for Sustainability
612-331-1099
cell 612-250-389
sean@afors.org

14th Annual Phillips West Winter Social on January 20

When:	Thursday, January 20 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Where:	Lutheran Social Service Center for Changing Lives 2400 Park Ave (enter West side of building) Parking lot on Oakland Avenue)
url:	http://midtownphillips.info/phillips-west-annual-winter-social-jan-20th

Join hundreds of your friends and neighbors for a free dinner of cultural foods, door prizes, entertainment and a fun-filled evening!

Neighborhood resources and networking opportunities will be available.

If you have questions or need a free Shuttle ride to the event, please call the Phillips West office to reserve at 879-5383.

This event is ADA Compliant.

East Phillips Park Cultural and Community Center Open House and Ribbon Cutting on January 22

When:	Saturday, January 22 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Where:	East Phillips Park Community Center 2307 17th Ave S
Contact:	Brad Pass East Phillips Park Community Design Team (612) 916-8478 bpass@usinternet.com Lonnie Nichols Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (612) 230-6471 lnichols@minneapolisparks.org
Download the flyer:	http://dl.dropbox.com/u/2685570/image001.jpg

This event celebrates six years of creative and determined effort by neighborhood organizations, residents and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, with City, County and State support. This new energy efficient community center and gymnasium will now be opening its doors to serve people of all cultures.

Saturday, January 22, 2011 Schedule:
1 to 4 PM	Open House, Entertainment, Snacks and Programming Information
2 PM	Building Dedication, Project Acknowledgements and Ribbon Cutting

McKinley Community CSA accepting shareholders for the 2011 season

url:	http://mckinleycommunity.csasignup.com/members
contact:	mckinleycommunitycsa@yahoo.com (612) 276–1541
Sign-up:	http://mckinleycommunity.csasignup.com/members

McKinley Community CSA
The McKinley Community CSA is an urban agriculture initiative of the McKinley Neighborhood in North Minneapolis. We are neighbors improving the well-being of our community by growing food where we live.

Growing Practices
We grow our crops without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. We actively seek to improve the biodiversity of our soil and crop land. Go Life!

Pay in Installments
You are welcome to pay for your share in installments. Choose Pay by Check or Other Payment at check out or make a Down Payment now and pay by check or money order for the remaining installments.

Sign-up at http://mckinleycommunity.csasignup.com/members

Starting mid June and ending at the beginning of October you will receive a three-quarter bushel box of seasonal vegetables once a week for an anticipated 17 week season.

Produce you may find in your share includes: Carrots, Potatoes, Lettuce, Onions, Peppers, Turnips, Peas, Swiss Chard, Brussel Sprouts, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Squash, Herbs and Melons. This is just a sampling of the potential harvest, last year McKinley Community CSA grew 32 different crops in over 120 different varieties! Our 2010 shareholders expressed an appreciation for the regular inclusion of familiar vegetables such as carrots and lettuce and enthusiasm for new introductions to their tables, such as lemon cucumbers, pea shoots and kohlrabi. There is no guarantee of share size, length of season or the success of any particular crop. An important feature of being a CSA member is the assumption of shared risk with the grower. It is the community-minded act of shared risk that makes small-scale diversified farming a viable enterprise for so many farmers. Thank you for your participation and trust. We will work hard to ensure a successful harvest.

A limited number of Work-Shares are available; 10 hours of work a month equals a full share of the harvest. Please contact us directly if you are interested in this exchange

Northside Healthy Eating Project Community Gathering on January 13

When:	Thursday, January 13, 2011 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Light Meal from 6:00 to 6:30
Where:	Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center (UROC) 2001 Plymouth Ave N
Who:	Free and Open to the Public
url:	http://mckinleycommunity.com/news-and-events/

On Thursday January 13th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm The Northside Healthy Eating Project, NHEP, will host a community gathering at UROC, University of Minnesota Urban Outreach and Engagement Center. The purpose of this meeting to talk with our neighbors about North Minneapolis food resources and to hear, from each other,what our visions for a strong, vibrant, community led, food system in North Minneapolis are.

Feedback from this gathering will be used to set the agenda for future gatherings and help the NHEP set its priorities for the future. Participants will also be able to connect with individual coalition members and each other around food issues.

There will be space available to promote your, food related, North Minneapolis business, organization, group, or event. Please limit yourselves to a flier or brochure, we cannot accommodate large displays.

Please feel free to forward this email or the attached flier to other Northside residents or groups. We hope to see you on January13th.

About the Northside Healthy Eating Project:
The Northside Healthy Eating Project is supported by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota as part of Prevention Minnesota, Blue Cross’ long-term health improvement initiative that is working to tackle the root causes of preventable heart disease and cancer. The Northside Healthy Eating Project is committed to increasing healthy eating in North Minneapolis through a multifaceted approach focused on improving access and availability to fresh produce. The NHEP has had the participation of more than 30 organizations and individuals in developing strategies to meet this goal.

To find out more about this event and RSVP contact:

Mustafa Sundiata
612-767-9174
mustafa@northpointinc.org

Second public meeting scheduled for Nice Ride’s North Side expansion on January 19

When:	Wednesday, January 19 6:00 p.m.
Where:	Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center (UROC) 2001 Plymouth Ave N
url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/ 20110111NiceRideNorthSide.asp

Second public meeting scheduled for Nice Ride’s North Side expansion

Nice Ride Minnesota, the sponsor of the successful bicycle sharing program that began in Minneapolis this past summer, is expanding into north Minneapolis in 2011 and will hold a second community meeting to reach out to north Minneapolis residents. The meeting will be held Wednesday, Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center (UROC), 2001 Plymouth Ave. N. in North Minneapolis.

Nice Ride’s first community meeting in north Minneapolis was held in October 2010. This second meeting is being held to provide feedback on suggestions residents made at the first meeting. Nice Ride will also report outcomes from a series of six focus group meetings held in November and early December 2010.

Nice Ride Minnesota installed three bicycle sharing stations in north Minneapolis between September and November 2010. Nice Ride has committed to installing eight additional stations this spring as part of its expansion program. Community members who attend the second community meeting will have an opportunity comment on the site location plans.

“Nice Ride on the North Side” is sponsored by the Minneapolis Department of Health and Family Support. It is made possible by funding from the Department of Health and Human Services as part of the Communities Putting Prevention to Work Initiative of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Minnesotans and visitors took more than 100,000 rides on Nice Ride bikes since the program launched in June 2010.

Nice Ride

City offers low-cost radon test kits

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20110107RadonKits.asp

January is Radon Action Month. Radon is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that occurs naturally in Minnesota soils and can enter homes primarily through cracks and openings in basement or foundation floors and walls. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and more than 21,000 deaths are attributed to radon each year.

Radon detection kits are available for purchase for $9 each, at the City of Minneapolis Development Review, 250 S. 4th St., Room 300. The Minneapolis Development Review’s hours of operation are: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) recommends that all homes in Minnesota be tested for radon. State health officials recommend that homes be tested two to five years for radon gas. Testing your home is the only way to know if it has an elevated level of radon, which can cause lung cancer. MDH estimates that one in three existing Minnesota homes have radon levels that pose a large health risk over many years of exposure.

Radon exposure, however, is largely preventable. First, test your home to see if you have radon. Testing is easy, inexpensive, and only takes three to seven days. If the level of radon in your home is above 4 pico Curies per Liter (PiC/L), property owners should consider verification testing and mitigation to reduce or eliminate radon from indoor air.

For more information on testing, mitigation and the new radon-resistant new construction measures, visit www.health.state.mn.us/radon or call the Minnesota Department of Health Indoor Air Unit at 651-201-4601 or 1-800-798-9050. Anyone interested in mitigating his or her home for radon should consult MDH’s list of certified radon mitigation contractors.

14th Annual Prospect Park Fire & Ice Festival on February 12

When:	Saturday evening, February 12th 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Where:	Luxton Park Neighborhood Community Center and Ice Rink 112 Williams Ave SE
url:	http://www.pperr.org/events/fire-ice.html

Our tradition is to have a safely monitored bonfire; we are enforcing the limit on flame height along with the Minneapolis fire marshal and the Park Police, who are invited to attend.

It has become a tradition in the neighborhood for many of us to save our X-mas trees for this event. In talking with SKB Environmental, they initially indicated that they would take any excess trees as part of their yard waste collection service as a courtesy to the community, if the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board won't do it. We will recycle them into planting mulch. However, we may add some branches or small trees to the "recreational fire" within reason.

• Bonfire
• Ice Skating
• Horse-drawn Hayrides!
• Music
• Book exchange / sale
• Food
• Hot Drinks
• Good Cheer

Sponsored by: Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board-Luxton Park, PPERRIA, CACA, Pratt Council, Luxton Park Council.

Fire and Ice Festival

Nonprofits Assistance Fund offers Financial Management Network meetings in 2011

When:	Fourth Wednesday of every month 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m.
Where:	Nonprofits Assistance Fund Conference Room 2801 21st Avenue South, Suite 240 Minneapolis, MN 55407
url:	http://www.nonprofitsassistancefund.org/pages/network

Nonprofits thrive when they have healthy professional networks. Join us for the Financial Management Network in our conference room (Suite 240) on the 4th Wednesday of every month. Our discussion runs from noon until 1:00pm - although you are welcome to stay later to continue to network or explore specific questions.

The gatherings are free, and open to anyone with an interest in the topic at hand. RSVP is not required. Just bring your lunch, your business cards, and your ideas.

2011 Financial Management Network Schedule:January 26: Working with Board Finance Committee and Treasurers

February 23: Money Saving Ideas: Share and Share Alike

March 23: Managing Restricted Funds

April 27: In-Kind Contributions: Practical Ideas

May 25: Making the Most of Audits and Management Letters

June 22: Social Enterprises and UBIT

July 27: Preparing Grant Budgets

August 24: Reserve Policies: What's Right for You?

September 28: Annual Budget Planning

October 26: Lines of Credit, Loans, and Mortgages

November 16: Internal Controls

No network lunch in December

Nonprofits Assistance Fund and MNCN Financial Workshops in 2011

When:	See times for workshops below.
Where:	Workshops are held at: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits 2314 University Avenue West, Suite 20 St. Paul, MN 55114
url:	Nonprofits Assistance Fund Minnesota Council of Nonprofits

Hosted by the MN Council of Nonprofits and Nonprofits Assistance Fund. Workshops generally cost between $45 and $65 each. Please check registration links for more details.

Fundamentals of Budgeting
Date: January 11, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:30 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Fundamentals of Financial Management
Date: February 8, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:30 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Calculating True Program Cost
Date: March 8, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Financial Reporting for the Board
Date: March 29, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Financial Analysis and Benchmarking
Date: April 12, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Nonprofit Budgeting: Leading the Budget Process
Date: May 10, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Financial Leadership for Executive Directors
Date: June 28, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Financial Planning in Uncertain Times
Date: July 26, 2011
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm CST
Click here for more info and registration.

Fundamentals of Financial Management Workshop on February 8

When:	Tuesday, February 8, 2011 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where:	Minnesota Council of Nonprofits 2314 University Avenue West, Suite 20 St. Paul, MN 55114
Cost:	$45 for MCN members $65 for nonmembers
Registration:	1. Register online at MNCN 2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517. 3. Register by mail - download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.
url:	http://tinyurl.com/27pmo32

Hosted by the MN Council of Nonprofits and Nonprofits Assistance Fund

Budgets are the foundation of nonprofit finance and are vital to your organization’s strategic planning and management. This workshop will prepare you to craft a budget for your program or organization using a clear 10-step process. We will walk through a realistic budgeting scenario and discuss the basics of managing cash flow, giving you practical tools to develop and monitor effective budgets.

Take this workshop in conjunction with Fundamentals of Nonprofit Finance for a comprehensive overview of nonprofit financial management.

Part of Nonprofits Assistance Fund’s Fundamental Skills series, helping those new to nonprofit finance gain the basic operating skills and confidence needed to achieve mission goals. Perfect for those new to the nonprofit sector, or for board members, program managers, administrative staff, or executive directors looking for a financial refresher. This training will be led by Michael Anderson.

Fundamentals of Budgeting Workshop on January 11

When:	Tuesday, January 11, 2011 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where:	Minnesota Council of Nonprofits 2314 University Avenue West, Suite 20 St. Paul, MN 55114
Cost:	$45 for MCN members $65 for nonmembers
Registration:	1. Register online at MNCN 2. Register by fax - download and complete the registration form, include credit card information and fax the form to 651-642-1517. 3. Register by mail - download and complete the registration form, include payment and mail to: Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; 2314 University Ave. W, Suite 20; St. Paul, MN; 55114-1802.
url:	http://tinyurl.com/27pmo32

Hosted by the MN Council of Nonprofits and Nonprofits Assistance Fund

Budgets are the foundation of nonprofit finance and are vital to your organization’s strategic planning and management. This workshop will prepare you to craft a budget for your program or organization using a clear 10-step process. We will walk through a realistic budgeting scenario and discuss the basics of managing cash flow, giving you practical tools to develop and monitor effective budgets.

Take this workshop in conjunction with Fundamentals of Nonprofit Finance for a comprehensive overview of nonprofit financial management.

Part of Nonprofits Assistance Fund’s Fundamental Skills series, helping those new to nonprofit finance gain the basic operating skills and confidence needed to achieve mission goals. Perfect for those new to the nonprofit sector, or for board members, program managers, administrative staff, or executive directors looking for a financial refresher. This training will be led by Michael Anderson.