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Spring Quarterly 2012

Restore & Renew:

The House & Garden Issue

green spaces back to beautiful. get your apartment, home, and Discover all thats good to help Spring has sprung in Seward!

Ask the Expert! Why it Pays to Invest in your Home Garage Sale Days! More Recycling Options Seward Commons Update Dog Park News

Its all here! Its what makes Seward a neighborhood thats ripe for growing just about everything!

Photography: Jennifer Larsen

Garage Sales Days

Published by The Seward Neighborhood Group Minneapolis, MN 55406

In 1982, a small group of Seward residents organized the first Seward Garage Sales Days. Thirty years later, this annual event continues to grow and improve. 2012 Garage Sales Days will be Friday and Saturday May 18th and 19th.

Theyre Back!

Volume 1, Issue 2 2011

Although the basic goals of Garage Sales Days have remained the same over the decades recycling unwanted items and having a good time socializing and shopping technology is improving the event. SNG is planning to bring back the interactive garage sale map, which made its debut last year. The SNG website and a (coming soon) smartphone application will also be tools for tech-savvy shoppers. The registration fee of $15 puts your sale on the map and gives you the opportunity to list special items on the interactive map. You will also receive an official Garage Sales Day sign and additional copies of the sales map. To register your sale, visit sng.org or contact Kerry Cashman, kerry@sng.org or 612-338-6205, ext. 119. Registration deadline is May 8th!

The Seward Profile, a quarterly publication of the Seward Neighborhood Group (SNG), strives to keep neighborhood residents, businesses, property owners and organizations informed of what's happening in Seward and assist SNG in building and sustaining a strong, diverse, and vibrant community. As a typical Seward endeavor, the Profile relies on volunteers to plan each issue, create copy, sell ads, and prepare the printed edition for mailing. We welcome your suggestions and would welcome your time and energy even more.

Recycling Program

To get involved, contact us at profile@sng.org or Seward Profile, 2323 E. Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, 55406.

Last March part of Seward was selected as an area for improved recycling collection. Residents in the Seward Two-Sort recycling pilot got a simpler sorting of recyclables and received new recycling carts. Residents in the pilot area will receive large, new 90 gallon recycling carts in which ALL recyclables can be mixed together for collection. The results were outstanding: an increase of 30% compared with the previous multi-sort system the first significant increase in recycling collections in the last twenty years.

Improvement Update

Upcoming Issues and Deadlines:

If you or someone you know would like a written translation of the Profile Quarterly, please contact profile@sng.org or call 612-338-6205, ext 119.
Editors: Adam, Diann, Bruce Design: Marne e-mail:profile@SNG.org

Fall Issue 2012 Festivals & More! Copy and Ad Deadline: August 10 In Homes and Businesses: August 30-31

Summer Issue 2012 The Great Outdoors Copy and Ad Deadline: May 9 In Homes and Businesses: May 29-30

Since the Seward pilot has done so well the City is intending to transition the two-sort pilot into a single stream pilot this coming March 2012. Residents in the pilot area will receive large new 90 gallon recycling carts and in which ALL recyclables can be mixed together for collection. The pilot will include new data analysis and publicity for residents. Seward residents interested in helping make the new Seward Single-Sort pilot a success should contact Mike Trdan at mnmichaelrecycle@gmail.com.

Futsal Anyone?

For information on everything Seward, find us at www.sng.org

Printer: PrintCraft

The Matthews Park Youth Soccer Training and Futsal Play is designed for children ages 8-11 who have completed sessions of Fundamentals or U11 soccer programs. Volunteer coaches will help your child develop general and position-specific skills through fast-paced drills and skill-building exercises. The majority of the session time will be devoted to supervised futsal play. Coaches will reinforce soccer rules and etiquette throughout the trainings and encourage the young athletes to play with confidence and have fun. This program will meet in the Matthews Park Gymnasium. Some Saturdays may be cancelled due to schedule conflicts. Cost $5.00, Saturdays April 21- May 19, 2012. 9:15-10:30 am.

Home Sweet Home!

Why it Pays to Invest in your Home

by Doug Wise

The arrival of spring is the perfect time to start tackling home improvement projects. This year, in particular, is a good time to do those projects for a number of reasons:

You have probably heard the saying, The three most important factors in determining a home's value are location, location and location. If you are lucky enough to own a home in the Seward neighborhood, you have scored on all three. Seward neighborhood has a lot going for it: well defined boundaries creating a sense of intimacy; vibrant local businesses; Seward Montessori School and Matthews Park, acting as a community center. Seward has often been described as a small town surrounded by the city. It is a great place to put down roots and invest in the future.

The Seward Neighborhood Group is offering a unique service to homeowners interested in improving their homes. Doug Wise, SNG's Housing Coordinator is available to provide assistance in planning your project, as well as help in obtaining financing, hiring contractors and providing advice during construction. Doug can be reached at (612) 338-6205, ext. 102 or doug@sng.org.

Fixing up costs less than trading up. While the price on a new house may be very attractive right now, you will also receive less for your current house, and it may take longer to sell. In addition, the transaction costs for selling your existing house and purchasing a new one (closing costs and realtors commission) could easily exceed 10% of the sale price of your current home. With the construction industry still in a slump, many contractors are eager for your business and willing to offer very competitive bids. Prices on materials have come down from their highs a few years ago. Prices on framing lumber, plywood and drywall are down, and prices on most other materials are about the same or down slightly. By including energy improvements in your project, you can also lower your heating and electric costs. Right now by participating in the Community Energy Services program, Seward homeowners can receive a home energy audit and materials valued up to $400 for only $30. By adding recommended insulation, weather sealing and/or a new furnace, homeowners can receive utility company rebates and a $150 rebate from the SNG Environment Committee. Financing is still very affordable. Mortgage rates are at historic lows and financial institutions are still offering attractive rates on home equity loans and refinancing. Homeowners in the Seward neighborhood are able to take advantage of special loan programs available through a partnership between the Seward Neighborhood Group and the Center for Energy and Environment at an interest rate of 3.99%. Well thought out improvement projects still add value. While you will not get back 100% of your investment immediately, if you plan to keep your house for at least five to ten years, you will more than earn back your investment, plus you get to enjoy the results.

Photography: Wendy Epstein

Aaron Hays

Photographer 3

Growing Lots

Grows into its Next Chapter

At the end of its second season, last fall, Growing Lots acquired a more permanent home. Meyer and Seward resident Michael Pursell, who joins Growing Lots this spring as farm manager, will develop the site, located just around the corner from Fun City Dogs on 22nd Street near Snelling. Theyll continue to work the plot at 24th and Minnehaha, provided by Coastal Seafoods.

SNG Home

New grant funding will permit several elements to aid operations and boost production capacity, including a High Tunnel (unheated Greenhouse), cooler, and a covered harvest processing station. Other improvements include expanded composting, and a rainwater catchment system attached to a series of ponds that will add beauty, a rain-fed water source, and habitat to the site.

For more information on the loan programs or general home improvement advice, contact Doug Wise, SNG's Housing Coordinator, at (612) 338-6205, ext. 102 or doug@sng.org.

The SNG Revolving Loan Program provides loans up to $12,000 to income eligible homeowners for exterior, energy, mechanical electrical and code improvements at 3.99%. The Interest Subsidy Grant Program reduces the interest rate on Minnesota Fix-up Fund loans from 5.99% to 3.99% on loans up to $20,000 for up to 15 years. The Minnesota Fix-up Fund can be used for most types of home improvement projects including interior remodeling and additions. The Emergency Deferred Loan Program provides deferred loans to owner-occupants of properties in the Seward neighborhood who face emergency home repairs and are unable to obtain funds to repair the problem. Loans will be made to cover the cost of correcting the problem up to a maximum of $5,000. For homeowners unable to make monthly payments, the loans will be repaid when the house is sold.

The Seward Neighborhood Group is offering the following home improvement loan programs to Seward homeowners with household incomes less than 115% of the metro median income, currently $96,500:

Improvement Loan Programs

Farmer Stefans work on Hungry Turtle Farm, a new organic/permaculture farm project located in western Wisconsin, promises to expand and diversify offerings to CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) subscribers. Subscribers can expect to see a number of foods that dont grow well in urban environmentssuch as melons, winter squash, and cornshowing up in their weekly shares. Sewards farmers also plan more community interaction through volunteer work days, classes, other educational offerings, and community parties.

Farmer Mike, who takes over from Jake Schultz, says hes thrilled to be working with Farmer Stefan. The two initially met as AmeriCorps volunteers, doing community gardening outside of Portland, Oregon. Pursell has gone on to write about food, study sustainable agriculture policy, and become actively involved in Sewards Hub of Heaven Community Garden, along with wife, Kristi Achor Pursell.

Photography (top & below): Jennifer Larsen

Growing Lots Urban Farm takes several leaps forward this season. The unique urban agriculture endeavora collaboration between farmer Stefan Meyer and Redesign, Inc., the Seward-based community development corporation transforms under-utilized, non-traditional parcels of land (to date this has meant paved parking lots), into verdant and bountiful growing spaces that feed and nourish the surrounding community.

Intergenerational & Cross-Cultural!

Potluck Picnic -

Mark Your Calendars Kick off summer at a Intergenerational and Cross-Cultural Potluck Picnic on Saturday, June 16, 4 to 7 pm. Fun and games for the entire family. Who knows what might happen? A paper chase through Seward ... community singing...outlandish games. Certainly a chance to sample a wide range of picnic treats and to get to know your neighbors.

The afternoon will include a chance for dogs (and owners) to socialize, learn about the off-leash facility, pick up tips for dog and owner etiquette in the park from Pretty Good Dog, and enjoy doggy games organized by Ellie Barnett-Cashman and Ruby Utter Woletz. This event is being co-sponsored by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation System and the Seward Neighborhood Group. Coffee and treats (for pets and their owners) provided.
Discover all that is Seward at www.sng.org

Sounds like the title of a Learn-to-Read book, doesn't it? But it's not. All neighborhood dogs and their owners are invited to an open-park party at the Off-Leash Dog Park at 925 Franklin Terrace, just east of Riverside Park, on Sunday, April 29th from 1 to 3 pm. Dogs will not need off-leash permits to attend, although they will need an up-to-date Minneapolis license.

Get your bark on!

Dog Park Party:

Energy Rebates -

For more information on the energy rebate program or general home improvement advice, contact Doug Wise, SNG's Housing Coordinator, at (612) 338-6205, ext. 102 or doug@sng.org. Got a nose for news? Have a yen to explore the nooks and crannies of our vibrant neighborhood? Interested in building your resume? Or just interested in having fun working together on a community building endeavor? The PROFILE needs you!

The Seward Environmental Committee is offering a special $150 rebate to members of the Seward community who are participating in the Minnesota Energy Challenge. All who completed energy-saving improvements based on a home energy audit are eligible! This rebate is in addition to the rebates available from CenterPoint Energy.

Still Available!

We Want YOU!

The SNG Profile needs you!

If you're intrigued by the possibility of joining the Profile crew, you're invited to attend the planning meeting for the Summer edition on Tuesday, April 3, 7 p.m. at the SNG office (2323 E. Franklin). Tto get involved, contact profile@sng.org or call SNG at 612-338-6205, ext. 119.

After three issues, the small band of volunteers has gotten the nuts and bolts of the production and delivery worked out. But help is needed in all areas of the publication from putting together stories, through graphic design to connecting with enough advertisers to fully fund the publication. The time commitment can be as small as an hour or two each quarter.

To celebrate turning 40, Seward Co-op Grocery & Deli is producing a commemorative book chronicling its history. Local authors Patricia Cumbie and Kari Cornell tell the story of the co-op from its early days as a small storefront operation, to its current chapter in the 25,600 square foot green building that opened in 2009. Much of the material came from interviews the two did with co-op founders, farmers, current staff, and members. Cumbie, who focused on the first two decades, says she especially enjoyed delving into the tumultuous 1970s, the era of the Twin Cities co-op wars. Archival photos will be supplemented by stunning original images from local photographer Chris Bohnhoff, whose work graces the pages of Sprout!the bi-monthly members publication. The book will also feature favorite co-op recipes, and trace the deep origins of the cooperative movement. Tom Vogel, marketing and membership manager, says that the volume, due out this fall, will be a valuable resource for Seward Co-op members, new and old, and anyone interested in the cooperative movement. The timing couldnt be better. Not only is 2012 the co-ops 40th. The United Nations has designated 2012 International Year of Cooperatives.

Seward Co-ops 40th Anniversary Book

Photograhy: Janelle

Eager to learn about Sewards history? Keep an eye out for two books and a third (see page 5).

Coming Up Two Neighborhood

History

Books

in which a reasonably intelligent but somewhat less than handy homeowner seeks good advice that may be useful to others. This issue's expert is friendly and helpful Julia Vanatta from Welna II Hardware.

Ask the Expert ...

In December 2011, SNGs history committee was awarded a publications and research grant. This funding, provided by the State of Minnesota through the Minnesota Historical Society from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, will help experienced neighborhood writers, researchers, and book production experts assemble a book-length neighborhood history manuscript. The team builds on efforts by chair Dick Westby and dedicated history committee members, who have gathered materials for over 30 years. Now, a good share of whats been archived will become widely accessible through stories and photos compiled in a bookand new online resources. Taking a topical approach, the book will cover a rich array of subjects, including: early history; housing, education, and transportation; work and commerce; sports and leisure; entertainment and the arts; social and political activism; churches, immigration, and social services. Viewing the project as a collective endeavor, the team will soon post job descriptions on the Seward Neighbors Forum. Community members are also encouraged to share personal or family anecdotes, photographs, records, clippingsand suggest other contacts. Writer Bob Haddow (bhaddow55@yahoo.com) is currently seeking photos and information on music and visual arts in Seward. For more information about the project, Bobs and other team members needs, contact Clem Engen clemengen@cs.com or Bruce Johansen bruce.johansen@gmail.com
Archival Photography: Courtesy of Tom Vogel

Seward History Book Project Is Awarded Grant

My dingy living room would benefit greatly from a new coat of paint, but my budget means I'll need to do it myself. What do I need to know?

The first step is to decide on color and woodwork treatment. Dramatic color changes will probably require a primer coat. One of Julia's favorite tips on choosing colors is to take home the paint swatches and find a sheet of fairly thick white paper. Cut a circle out of the middle of the paper and lay it over the paint swatch. It's a good way to see how intense a color will be. You can also put the swatch of a contrasting trim color side by side with the primary color and isolate them with the white paper peep-hole to get a better idea of how colors will actually look.

Family Photograph: Courtesy of John Trulen

Other things to remember about paint: use latex paint over latex paint; a high gloss paint will highlight wall damage; chose a washable finish for kitchens, bathrooms and children's rooms. Julia notes that a good paint store can produce any color of paint you choose, regardless of the manufacturer, through cross formulation. So you can buy your paint where you want to spend your money. When choosing equipment, buying the best brushes you can afford should be a priority. Quality tools play a big part in doing a good job. You'll need a sash (angled) brush, a regular brush, and a paint roller and roller pan. Once you have paint and equipment, make sure the walls are clean. Do all wall repairs first. It's also a good time to caulk around windows on external walls. Take care of the woodwork first. Then go around the room painting over all repairs right before starting to paint. (Expect to paint two coats, regardless of what the paint company has advertised.) Julia suggests keeping a damp rag and a bucket of water handy while painting so that you can deal with drips right away. When you're finished painting, clean your brushes immediately. A fork and plastic kitchen scrubber do a good job getting paint out of the bristles. Then wrap the wet brush in a paper towel to help it retain its shape. Thanks, Julia!

Saving Milwaukee Avenue in the 1970s

Milwaukee Avenue has long been one of Sewards treasures, so its hard to imagine that it, and much of the neighborhood, nearly disappeared under the guise of urban renewal. Now, architect and long-time resident Bob Roscoe is set to publish These Houses Told Us Stories, a first-hand account of how he and others organized to save and refurbish Milwaukee Avenue. Both Roscoe and contributor Jeri Reilly were on staff of the Seward West Project Area Committee when demolition plans were put in motion in the 1970s. It is unlikely Milwaukee Avenue would have earned historic district designation had it not been for their research and actions. The street was recognized as first home for many Scandinavian and East European immigrant workers, and as an unorthodox 19th-century planned residential development. Once it was designated, Roscoe and Reilly devised a plan to convert the obsolete two block-long street into the landscaped pedestrian walkway it is today. The 250+- page book will contain over 60 photographs, numerous planning maps and architectural drawings. Most significantly, says Roscoe, this book offers a unique glimpse into how determined citizens saved their neighborhood in a decade which changed history. For more, like Saving Milwaukee Avenue in the 1970s on Facebook. Discover all that is Seward at www.sng.org

Seward Commons Project

Full Steam Ahead!

Sewards western edge will soon undergo a dramatic transformation. Several key pieces of Seward Commons, a mixed-use, housing-focused, transit-oriented development project, are falling into place. Seward Redesign serves as master developer of the 3.8 acre site, formerly known as Bystrom Bros., located just southeast of the Franklin LRT Station.

This portion of Seward Commons is a collaboration between Touchstone Mental Health and nonprofit developers Project for Pride in Living (PPL), and Seward Redesign. It will be built on the southern edge of the site at Snelling Avenue and East 24th Street.

Touchstone currently operates other assisted living facilities, one of which is in Seward. Its staff spent much of the past two-and-a-half years reviewing research and identifying environmental factors that can contribute to longer lasting control of brain illness. This information was shared with architect Jeffrey Schonecke at UrbanWorks Architecture, who used it to design the apartments and wellness center. Jennifer Baumgartner, Touchstones development director, says, Whats really nice about the project are some of the community components. Baumgartner has been meeting with SNGs community coordinator, Kerry Cashman, to discuss ways of integrating the neighborhood into Touchstones horticulture therapy and training program. The two are also talking about ways of involving clients in Sewards arts festival and Kings Fair activities. Baumgartner notes that Touchstone has been part of Seward for over 30 years, so Rising Cedar is really an expansion of our current presence. She says theres a great deal of excitement around helping to green the space of Seward Commons by working with neighborhood artists and Growing Lots urban farmers. We are just glad that we get to be part of an active, vibrant community.

Seward residents, says Baumgartner, should be proud that their neighborhood will be the anchor site of programs that can be replicated nationwide. Touchstone plans to raise $2 million to add furnishings and special features, and to subsidize programming during the first two years.

Phase II of Seward Commons, which will provide 60 units of affordable housing to seniors, is a partnership between Redesign and Common Bond Communities. The project has received a commitment of over $9 million from a federal HUD program and has commitments for additional funding to correct environmental contamination at the site. According to Redesign board president Tom Burke, the prospects for raising additional funding for the second phase are very good and construction should begin in 2013. Like Touchstone, Common Bond has proven to be a good community partner through its management of other housing developments with services, including Seward Towers. Brian Miller, Redesigns executive director, told Finance & Commerce that housing, in a mix of prices and density, will be the main element of Seward Commons, but that the transit-oriented component will be obvious. A regional bike path and parkway will be outside the Commons back door, and the Franklin Avenue LRT station is less than a block away. People wont even have to cross the street to get to the train, Miller said. Commercial and retail elements are also expected to be part of the mix.

Board president Burke notes that, this is a long-term development site that will influence surrounding properties for years to come. Carrier cautions, We will need to be patient, as this project will unfold over a number of years. Periods of busy construction likely may be followed by more quiet periods, as we seek to continue to attract the right occupants for the site. As part of its mission to support local entrepreneurs, Miller emphasizes that Redesign has been leasing and managing space at Seward Commons to a variety of companies and nonprofits. Its served as ad hoc incubator space for small profit and nonprofit startups, including Free Geek, Growing Lots, Sisters Camelot, the Seward Bike/ Walk Center (SPOKES), and Fun City Dogs.

Carol Carrier, Redesigns board vice president, says, We hope to have a development that integrates well into the Seward Community. This means, for example, that the Bike Walk Center will be used by many residents of Seward. It means that the connection to walkers and bikers and the LRT Station is well defined, well-lit and safe. We hope to use Seward Commons to beautify this end of Seward, as a great bookend for the neighborhood.

As the projects five phases proceed, attention is being given to green space and streetscapes that will aid in managing storm water collection and infiltration, and make the area more attractive. Enhancing safety for pedestrians and bicyclists is another priority. To that end, realignment and repaving of streets will occur.

Conceptual Illustrations: Courtesy of PPL Touchstone Urbanworks Architecture

Phase I of the project, Touchstone Rising Cedar, will feature a Health and Wellness Center dedicated to supporting the holistic needs of adults living with mental illness. This first-of-its kind facility in the U.S. will offer an array of services and support for those with medical and mental health challenges. Also on-site will be 40 apartments, around-the-clock staff support, and offices. The project promises to bring a minimum of 25 new jobs, plus 40 existing jobs from its office move, to Seward. Rising Cedar is now fully funded and will begin construction late this spring.

It will be someplace to learn how to bike, learn bike mechanics, learn how to bike in the winter, and work on your bike during open shop hours. It will work to make Seward a better place to bike and a better place to walk. It will be open to everyone but our plan is to concentrate on helping the East African community in Seward and surrounding neighborhoods become active bikers. The center will be one block north of Coastal Seafood by the LRT bike trail. The center will be a program of the Seward Neighborhood Group

Coming this Summer: A COMMUNITY BIKE/WALK CENTER!

Mar
March 10

SOUTHSIDE HOUSING FAIR

To start we need your help. We need people to donate repairable bikes to use in the program. If you have a bike or bikes taking up valuable storage space in your garage, basement or storeroom, we'll take if off your hands. To donate a bike, contact Sheldon Mains at SMains@visi.com or 612-618-7149. He'll even pick up the bike from anyplace within 2 miles of Seward Neighborhood!

March 11

10 am - 3 pm South High, 3131 19th Ave. South

March 13

2 pm - 4 pm Faith Mennonite Church 2720 East 22nd Street

BENEFIT CONCERT FOR SEWARD-LONGFELLOW RESTORATIVE JUSTICE

Apr
Discover all that is Seward at

May
May 8
SNG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

www.sng.org

May 18 0 19

E-mail kerry@sng.org or call 612-338-6205, ext. 119.

GARAGE SALE DAYS DEADLINE TO REGISTER!

7 pm, Matthews Park

April 9

SEWARD GARAGE SALE DAYS!

7 pm, Matthews Park May 23

The whole neighborhood!

SNG CRIME AND SAFETY COMMITTEE

7 pm, Matthews Center April 10

SNG BOARD OF DIRECTORS MTG

SNG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

SNG COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Calendar

March 24

This year, Matthews Park will be offering Baseball and Softball for youth, ages 5 - 15 years. Please call Sarah at 612-370-4797 for more information.

March 15

7 pm, Matthews Center

7 pm, Matthews Center

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE FACILIATATOR TRAINING

April 20 - 22

SPRING SPORTS SIGN-UPS

March 28
Seward Neighborhood Group 2323 E. Franklin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55406

9 am - 4 pm Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church Register at www.afors.org or call 612-331-1099

SNG BOARD OF DIRECTORS MTG

SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES CONFERENCE

7 pm, Matthews Center March 31

COMMUNITY GARDEN RESOURCE FAIR

April 25

Please contact Michele Braley at 612-338-6205 x 108 or michele@sng.org for more information about the next facilitator training 7 pm, Matthews Center
DOG PARK PARTY

Seward Longfellow Restorative Justice Partnership provides a Community alternative to court for youth committing misdemeanor offenses in the 55406 zip code. We need people who have a stake in Seward or Greater Longfellow neighborhoods to volunteer at the conferences as trained facilitators.

June 16

COMMUNITY POTLUCK PICNIC

SAVE THE DATE!!

Jun

SNG BOARD OF DIRECTORS MTG

9 am - 4:30 pm Neighborhood House 179 Robie Street, St. Paul www.gardenmatters.org

1 pm - 3 pm Off-Leash Dog Park 935 Franklin Terrace

April 29