Community chats Community Connects Transgender visibility about Golf Course makes a web of public event stretches across during focus sessions art in Longfellow Lake St. into St. Paul PAGE 5 PAGE 8 PAGE 10

December 2018 Vol. 36 No. 10 www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com 21,000 Circulation • Min Hi Line linear park becoming a reality in Longfellow After years of talking about a protected path for biking and walking, coalition delighted to see first sections going in

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN Standing in front of Longfellow House next to Minnehaha Falls Regional Park, one can see it is a straight shot up the train tracks to the Mid- town Greenway and then down- town Minneapolis. “It is an inspiring view. No great leap of imagination is re- quired to envision how wonder- ful it will be to have a protected wide path for recreation—biking, walking, gardens—that connects Minnehaha Falls Park to the Mid- town Greenway in that rail corri- dor,” remarked Cora Peterson. A few years ago, she band- ed together with other South Minneapolis residents to dream about a path that would do just that. The Min Hi Line Coali- The General Mills grain elevators at 3716 Dight Ave. have been identified A pilot project identified early on is near the General Mills grain elevators at tion aims for a protected, pur- as a pilot of the Min Hi Line. The site was recently sold to Hayes Har- 3716 Dight Ave. This graphic illustrates what the linear path could look like pose-built, multi-use path for low Development,who is also working on a development at 46th St. and in the area. (Graphic courtesy of the Minnesota Design Center) walking, biking, and other mod- Minnehaha Ave. (Photo submitted by the Min Hi Line Coalition) erately paced people-powered transit, as well as park space in the wider areas of the corridor, pointed out. Hi Line corridor at one of the in- First section being installed They also pursued en- explained Peterson, who grew up “The development of the tersections that cross it to get an In the fall of 2016, Peterson and gagement with the Midtown in Nokomis. There are opportu- Min Hi Line is the next step to idea of the substantial space the co-founder Nathan Van Wylen Greenway Coalition, acknowl- nities for gardens, playground ensure that Minneapolis and rail bed comprises. began collecting letters of sup- edging the group’s vast experi- equipment, and art installations the Twin Cities continue to lead “Our goal is that Minneap- port for the Min Hi Line from ence in developing and main- along the rail bed. in quality of life nationally,” olis and Hennepin County pre- neighborhood associations and taining a successful city path. The The line will help green the said Peterson. serve the full boundaries of the local organizations such as Squir- Midtown Greenway is a 5.5-mile urban landscape and provide She encourages people to current corridor for the Min Hi rel Haus Arts. social connectedness, Peterson take a look up and down the Min Line linear park,” Peterson stated. Continued on page 9 Standish-Ericsson boy battles rare polio-like illness Four-year-old Orville's right arm is paralyzed and both legs affected by Acute Flaccid Myelitis; benefit set Dec. 16

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN Photo left: Standish-Ericsson resi- ville went out for the mail when inflammation in Orville’s spi- Pressing on after a life- dent Orville Young refers to his they got home. nal cord that showed up on an changing event takes a village, paralyzed right arm as his “wonky That’s when Elaine noticed MRI, although it wasn’t offi- and Standish-Ericsson residents arm.” Orville has therapy appoint- that his right hand was just cially confirmed by the CDC Elaine and Michael Young are so ments at Gillette Children Specialty hanging there. until November. grateful for theirs. Healthcare in St. Paul four times a “Buddy, can you raise your None of the treatments they In the aftermath of their week, and is likely to have surgery arm?” she asked him. tried in the hospital worked. young son’s paralysis and hos- in January to move a nerve to help He couldn’t. “They sent us home with pitalization, the family has been stimulate movement in his paralyzed Elaine moved fast, and with- a kid who couldn’t walk,” re- amazed at how supportive and arm. A youth art show benefit to pay in minutes they were in the car, called Elaine. giving people have been, despite for medical bills is being planned heading to the only hospital the the family only having lived in for Dec. 16, 3-6 p.m., at the Public recent transplant to Minnesota Orville and AFM Minnesota for a few years. Functionary, 1400 12th Ave. NE, knew in the area, the Masonic Back home, Orville’s family no- “Thanks to everyone for ev- Minneapolis. (Photo by Tesha M. Children’s Hospital. ticed the stark difference between erything,” stated Elaine. “Having Christensen) Elaine says she already knew what he used to be able to do people drop off meals and stuff what this was—Acute Flaccid and what he could do now. has been so helpful.” Myelitis (AFM), a rare, polio-like His right arm wasn’t work- treating it with over-the-counter condition caused when enterovi- ing. Everything but the hand Suddenly paralyzed medications. When it still hadn’t ruses invade the nervous system was paralyzed. The summer began like any Audrey seemed the sickest, and gone away by Friday, she began and target the spinal cord. His right leg was extremely other, and the Youngs kept busy three-year-old Orville just had a debating whether or not to bring She had been pregnant with weak. He tripped and fell a lot. with friends and outings. runny nose and a cough. Then him in before she flew out of Orville in 2014 when there were His right trunk muscles were On July 4, 2018, all four on Tues., July 10, Orville started town for a visit with family in several cases in California that hit weak so getting up was hard. members in the family were sick running a fever of 101 degrees. Northern California that week- the news, and she’d read up on it. Because Orville’s entire spine with a cold, but Elaine didn’t His mom wondered if it was a end. They had spent the morning By July 13, the doctors also urinary tract infection and began playing at the neighbors, and Or- suspected AFM because of the think much of it. Six-year-old Continued on page 7 Metro Work Center finding new ways to connect with community By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN The Metro Work Center (MWC) is a community-based day program for adults with developmental disabilities. Located on the third floor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church at 2730 E. 31st St., the program is in its 50th year of providing services—and is looking for more ways to connect with the surrounding neighborhood. Executive director Julie Washington explained, “We’re a non-profit agency licensed for up to 57 adult participants; most participants who come to us are involved in our em- ployment options. We have a Executive director Julie Washington of the Metro Work Center. MWC pro- regular crew that goes to Al- vides job opportunities, life skill development, and community integration exander’s Import Auto Repair for adults with developmental disabilities. On the left is a metal project down the street and provides made by MWC participants and artists through the Community Connects cleaning services. There are sev- Program (see the article on page 8). (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) eral teams that are paid to help neighborhood residents with seasonal raking, mowing, and professionals and two program college student studying psy- snow removal. We’re looking coordinators. We have a direct chology or special education to partner with more neighbor- support professional position would gain relevant experience. hood businesses and home- available, but it’s been hard to We could also use committed owners, who believe in our fill. The Minnesota Department community volunteers, willing mission of community inclu- of Human Services (DHS) im- to go on vocational or recre- sion for people of all abilities.” plemented a 7% cut to funding ational trips into the commu- Like many community pro- to critical services this summer. nity with us. For instance, we grams, MWC began as a con- An estimated 32,000 people used to help shelf books at the MWC participant Rickeem (right) said, “I like hanging out with my friends gregational effort. In 1965, with developmental disabilities East Lake Library, but we just here.” He works two days per week at a South Minneapolis nursing home, helping Holy Trinity started an arts and rely on that funding, as well as don’t have enough staff or vol- to set the tables at mealtime. The person-centered programming at MWC is de- crafts program for teenagers 300 provider organizations like unteers to take a group there signed to meet the individual needs of participants. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) who, at the time, were labeled ours that provide those services right now.” “mentally retarded” and not al- state-wide. We operate on a To learn more about sup- lowed to attend public school. very tight budget.” porting MWC by hiring a crew, Three years later, the congre- She continued, “The po- becoming a volunteer, or to gation recognized the needs sition we have would be ideal make a donation, contact Julie of the broader community for someone interested in a ca- Washington at jwashington@ and formalized the program reer working with people with metroworkcenter.org or call BUY LOCAL as a day activity center with developmental disabilities. A 612-729-7381. paid staff. By the 1970’s, pub- lic schools had changed their language—and their model for accepting students with spe- cial needs. MWC began serv- ing adults instead of teens, and their emphasis shifted to in- house vocational training. Washington started as a direct support professional at MWC 15 years ago while she was still a college student. “At the state and federal level, there’s a big push for com- munity inclusion right now, which we're already provid- ing,” Washington said. “In the last 50 years, we’ve seen a shift from institutionalizing people with developmental disabili- ties to having full access to the benefits of community life. MWC works on a combined model of work, social involve- ment, leisure, and recreation.” She elaborated, “As part of our leisure and recreational programming, we take a per- son-centered approach and make weekly trips into the community. We enjoy walk- ing to the many businesses in the neighborhood and, when weather permits, traveling to places such as Como Zoo, museums, parks, and baseball games.” Like all direct service orga- nizations in Minnesota, MWC is facing a critical funding and staffing shortage. Washington, as already noted, is the exec- utive director, but most days, she wears several other “hats.” She also serves as CEO, CFO, HR director, and direct support professional when needed. She explained, “We cur- rently have ten direct support

Page 2 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Letters to the Editor the phrase “affordable” is different totally and completely different cost the mfederal inimum wage cannot take well beyond the expected “life ‘Affordable housing?’ depending on your viewpoint, the standards. “In 2016, 577,196 Min- afford the local fair-market rent for of a building” to pay for construct- truth is that “affordable housing,” nesotans, including 175,079 chil- a two-bedroom apartment anywhere ing it. Really? as a phrase, is kind of defined by the dren under age 18, still had family in the United States.” As a side note, the average To the editor: U.S. Government. incomes below the official poverty The truth is that the cost of STUDIO apartment in the Twin Thank you for the infor- According to the U.S. Depart- threshold in 2016 (about $24,300 these new housing projects, in the Cities metro area was last noted mative article in the November ment of Housing and Urban De- for a family of four, or $608 per millions of dollars and designed to as $945/mo. and the average 2018 issue regarding the pro- velopment, “Families who pay more month for housing).” meet increasing demand for hous- ONE BEDROOM clocked in at posed new housing project on than 30 percent of their income The government also says, “An ing in the inner city, cannot be $1028/mo, TWO BEDROOM 46th St. and Minnehaha Ave. for housing are considered cost estimated 12 million renter and built as low-income housing unless at $1250. And, of the 141,518 However, to describe this struc- burdened and may have difficulty homeowner households now pay we as taxpayers are willing to give apartments available in the ture as ”affordable housing” is affording necessities such as food, more than 50 percent of their an- substantial tax money to develop- metro, average vacancy rates in misleading and inaccurate. clothing, transportation, and medi- nual incomes for housing. A family ers to build them. At a low-income any one month is only about 2% $900 - $1,200 per month cal care.” with one full-time worker earning rental payment, it would often of apartment stock. may be affordable for some peo- Under that definition, it is ple, but it will undoubtedly dis- generally accepted that 30% or less place the current residents of that than the median household income corner, who are paying $450 - would be considered “affordable ‘2040’ plan will forever alter neighborhoods $650 per month. housing.” In Minnesota, the medi- To the Editor: hired a public relations firm for To Sean Sweeney of Hayes an household income is $65,599 Next time you see a purple $80,000 to “re-frame the narra- Harlow Development: when (based on 2016 figures). In Min- lawn sign with a sketch of two tive” as they put it. The PR folks talking to the citizens of our com- neapolis, the figure is even higher houses squished between five came up with imaginative new munity, be honest in your descrip- at $73,231. Under the Minnesota apartment buildings realize that phrases like “multi-generational tion of your proposed new build- figure 30% would equal $1625 a it accurately illustrates the sweep- and life-cycle housing” and other ing. The current residents who are month for housing for the average ing residential rezoning goal tactics to sell this deal. living there now will likely be out family in Minnesota, and in Min- of Minneapolis, known as the But their spiffed-up words on the street, competing for the neapolis, $1830 a month. Falling “2040” plan. It will forever alter do not change how the land- increasingly hard to find truly af- under those figures would then clas- the physical landscape of our The 2040 plan for Minneapolis scape, livability, and parking in fordable housing. sify as “affordable housing.” neighborhoods. includes increasing the density of residential areas will be affected Robbie Becker Keep in mind that most devel- Put simply, Mayor Jacob housing within the city's neighbor- if they are victorious in rebuild- opers are NOT calling their proj- Frey, 12th Ward Council Mem- hoods. (Photo provided) ing our neighborhoods with Editor’s Note: Although we agree ects “low-income.” That would be completely with your sentiment that ber Andrew Johnson, and other up to four-story buildings. And council members want hundreds, Triplexes could be built just using excuses that multi-unit if not thousands, of single-fami- about anywhere else in Minne- construction still requires a will- ly owner-occupied Minneapolis apolis. ing seller (who’s moving away) homes to be bulldozed and re- I asked the planner if this and a speculator/developer/ placed by apartment buildings. meant that four-story apartment buyer (who probably won’t ever I didn’t totally believe this, buildings could be built any- live here) does nothing to help even after reading as much as I where and everywhere on 28th those who want to preserve their could about the plan until I at- Ave. from 37th St. to the airport blocks. tended a meeting at Hiawatha and she said “yes.” She later City Hall officials need to re- Park in October, where a city added that there would be no re- alize that people who live here planner described the scheme in quirements for off-street parking. think there’s nothing evil or detail. Additionally, homeowners, old-fashioned about wanting to Here’s their goal—four story absentee landlords speculators, live in residential, owner-occu- apartment buildings would be and flippers would be allowed pied, single-family homes on lots encouraged and permitted to be and encouraged to split up ex- less than half the size of those in built everywhere on thorough- isting homes into multiple unit the suburbs. We’re preservation- fares like 28th Ave. or Blooming- dwellings. Again, no off-street ists and minimalists who live a ton Ave.; two-and-one-half-story parking would be required. green lifestyle by nature. buildings would be encouraged In short, current protective Spread the word and politely and permitted on the next block single-family residential zoning let 12th ward Council Member over like 29th or 15th avenues. ordinances would be repealed Andrew Johnson 612-673-2212, and replaced. The city pitches 11th Ward Council Member Jere- phrases like “...regulatory policy my Schroeder 612-673-2211, and should allow for more creation Mayor Jacob Frey 612-673-2100 of supply...” which euphemis- know how you feel. Remember, tically means more apartment these are good people but don’t buildings. buy excuses that their votes are Speculators and developers only preliminary and can be would have all the rights. Home- fixed later. All mistakes start owners would have next to none. somewhere. The mayor and city council Wes Skoglund Messenger

125 First Ave. NW, PO Box 168 Minneapolis MN 55369 651-645-7045 Publishers: the Messenger. Letters to the editor and news releases for publication can be sent via e-mail Calvin deRuyter, Tim Nelson at [email protected]. Be sure to send copy in the body of the e-mail, and please Managing Editor: mark whether the copy is a letter, a news release Calvin deRuyter, [email protected] for publication, or perhaps just your thoughts on the last issue. Don’t forget to write! Advertising: Denis Woulfe (651-917-4183); The Longfellow/Nokomis Messenger is [email protected] a monthly community publication in the Longfellow and Nokomis areas of Minneapolis, Production: owned and operated by deRuyter-Nelson Tim Nelson Publications, Inc. All correspondence should be sent to the Messenger, 125 First Ave. NW, PO Contributing Writers: Box 168, Minneapolis, MN 55369. To contact Tesha M. Christensen, Jan Willms, Jill Boogren, the editor, call Calvin at 651-917-4182. To reach the advertising department, call Denis at Matthew Davis, Margie O’Loughlin, 651-917-4183. Stephanie Fox All rights reserved. The contents of the Now, communicate with the Longfellow/ Messenger cannot be reproduced without Nokomis Messenger electronically! express written permission of the publisher. Now it’s easier than ever to keep in touch with Copyright ©2018. www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • December 2018 Page 3 Want to celebrate the New Year presentations, or try education- with your kids but don’t want the al activities. Environmentally fo- late bedtime hassle? cused nonprofits or local busi- The Night Before New Year’s NENA (Nokomis East Neighborhood Association) nesses interested in exhibitor Eve party is planned on Sun., opportunities can contact Pro- Dec. 30, 5:30-7:30pm, at Lake 4313 E. 54th St. gram and Communication Man- Nokomis Community Center, ager Lauren Hazenson at 612- 2401 E. Minnehaha Pkwy. It is a Night Before New Year’s Eve 2018 set for Dec. 30 724-5652 or lauren.hazenson@ family-oriented event chock full nokomiseast.org. of activities, including a “mid- night” countdown at 7:15pm. Upcoming meetings and events: Volunteer The only cost of the event is a 12/5/18, 6:30pm: NENA Housing, Commercial, and Streetscape Committee, NENA Office, Love Nokomis East? Want to suggested $10 donation per fam- 4313 E. 54th St. meet more neighbors? Volunteer! ily. Enjoy a kid-friendly dinner, 12/1218, 6:30pm: NENA Green Initiatives Committee, NENA Office Meet your neighbors and carnival games, music, and danc- 12/20/18, 7pm: NENA Board Meeting, NENA Office shape the future of the neighbor- ing, marshmallow roasting over a 12/30/18, 7:30pm: Night Before New Year’s Eve, Lake Nokomis Community Center, hood in just a few hours. NENA bonfire, face painting, and much 2401 E. Minnehaha Pkwy. needs a variety of volunteer posi- more! New to this year, NENA tions, including community pho- will be holding a food drive Web: www.nokomiseast.org • Facebook: www.facebook.com/Nokomiseast tographers, newsletter volunteers, for the Minnehaha Food Shelf. Twitter: twitter.com/NokomisEast • Email: [email protected] • Phone: 612-724-5652 and community outreach volun- Please bring non-perishable teers. Some volunteer positions foods, toiletries, household, or can be modified to fit your avail- baby items to donate. Annual State of the East community. NENA and our for our lakes and streams by ability or schedule. Nokomis East needs volun- Neighborhood meeting 2019 guest speakers will discuss plans making some simple adjustments Interested? Want to learn teers for the Night Before New to continue fostering a vibrant, to your habits. more? Contact Lauren Ha- Year’s Eve. This event is fun for The Nokomis East Neighbor- active Nokomis East in 2019. NENA, Standish-Ericsson hood Association State of our zenson at lauren.hazenson@ everyone who attends, includ- Neighborhood Association, and nokomiseast.org or 612-724- ing the volunteers, and it can- Neighborhood community gath- Save the date Longfellow Community Coun- ering is planned for Tuesday 5652. not happen without volunteer The South Minneapolis Green cil have teamed up to present the night, Jan. 15, 6-8pm, at Mor- support. Volunteers working the Fair is being planned for Sat., South Minneapolis Green Fair, ris Park Recreation Center, 5531 Sign up for NENA News event, in addition to being part Apr. 13, 12-4pm, at Roosevelt an expansion of the popular 39th Ave. S. Get your neighborhood news de- of the fun, will get a free pizza High School, 4029 28th Ave. S. Nokomis Green Fair introduced Come to hear from NENA, livered to your inbox every other dinner. Opportunities for fami- Commit to environmental earlier this year. It will be an op- our business community, elect- Wednesday. Sign up today at lies, groups, and young adult vol- sustainability as a part of your portunity to discover sustainable ed officials, and other commu- www.nokomiseast.org. Once you unteers are available. Sign up to New Year’s Resolution! Cut your lifestyle options in a relaxed, nity leaders. This neighborhood sign up, you’ll receive updates on volunteer at http://bit.ly/NBNYE carbon footprint, reduce your judgment-free, and interactive conversation will address several news and happenings for your or call 612-724-5652. impact on landfills, keep local environment. Meet a variety of topics relevant to the Nokomis neighborhood. plants and animals thriving, care exhibitors, attend informative

On Oct. 27, Transition Longfel- mate preparedness. Should we low received national attention expand or become even more as a runner-up for the Com- laser focused? How can we munity Impact Award given Transition Longfellow partner with others in the com- by Transition U.S. to groups munity to increase our impact? that have made a difference By LESLIE MACKENZIE “And most importantly, in their local community. The we’ve developed a wonderful grassroots, neighbor-led group volunteer base over the years provides education and social and our Facebook page is a activities for people in South Transition Longfellow receives national recognition phenomenal resource, but we Minneapolis and beyond who them at little or no cost. Over the preparedness email series in 2018 most important to us,” said need to expand our organizing are concerned about sustain- years, the group has: • Worked with the neighborhood Leslie MacKenzie. and communications team so ability, food resilience, clean • Installed 183 raised bed veg- association to host a Low Energy She said the group is tak- we can continue to deliver in- energy, climate change, and etable gardens in the homes Fair in 2016 ing time this fall and winter to teresting programs and prevent emergency preparedness. of neighbors and provided • Built Little Free Libraries, rocket engage community members burn-out of our long-term vol- Transition Longfellow co- food-growing and food storage stoves, and solar cookers in visioning what Transition unteers. A couple of hours of founder and organizer, Leslie education and resources • Made insulated curtains, sun- Longfellow could be mov- volunteer help every month— MacKenzie, received the Grass- • Hosted 77 movies and potluck screen, candles, kombucha ing forward. “We have people or with a specific project—goes roots Leadership Award. meals, providing neighbors with • And more come to our activities from an incredibly long way with a That wasn’t the only recog- a chance to learn together and all over the Twin Cities, from group like ours.” nition the group received this get to know one another Visioning its future—engaging the suburbs, from Duluth … If you would like to be part year. In the spring, Transition of the visioning conversation, • Organized field trips, game new volunteer leaders we had a group come to visit Longfellow was nominated for nights, knitting and mending cir- us from Washington, D.C.! visit the group’s website (www. a health department award for cles, and book groups “National recognition is nice, Should we change our name to transitionlongfellow.org) to sign its work on climate prepared- • Brought energy, climate and since we’ve been doing so reflect our broader reach? up for one of the listening ses- ness in 2017. health speakers to the commu- much for so many years, but “We have recently focused sions. If you would like to learn With a budget of about nity our focus is really on helping on three areas: food resilience, more about volunteering, contact $1,000 a year, the group delivers • Produced a weekly emergency our local community to be community building, and cli- Leslie through the website. 4-6 activities a month, most of more resilient. That’s what’s 2019 Minneapolis & St. Paul Home Tour wants your home, or your neighbor’s Who do you know, who’s both tour enjoy feedback and find it’s 50 homes. It is not necessary to community spirited and blessed also a great promotion for their have remodeled the whole house. with a home they like to show neighborhoods.” The tour is a celebration off? The 2019 Minneapolis & Contractors often help staff of city living that encourages Saint Paul Home Tour is already the homes, and homeowners ask homeowners to improve exist- looking for homeowners and family, friends, and neighbors to ing homes and to complement home improvement profession- help host. “Good support makes the neighborhood flavor if they als to feature on the late-April it fun. It’s a great incentive to fin- build new. tour of “Real Homes. Real Peo- ish up the last few little projects,” For more information, call ple. Real Ideas.” Ashmore said. “It’s particularly Tour Coordinator Margo Ash- Homes can be recently re- attractive for homeowners and more at 612-867-4874 or email modeled, expanded, or simply visitors when there are two or [email protected]. There is well-preserved examples of their more homes close together on an online submission form or architectural eras. Nominations/ tour, so use your winter gath- downloadable options at www. applications are due Jan. 20, erings to encourage a cluster of MSPHomeTour.com. 2019 and early submissions are homes and folks to help hold encouraged. It’s the Tour’s 32nd them open.” year; it will be held Apr. 27-28, Contractors and other ven- 2019. dors may nominate and appear “Visitors are looking for at homes they have worked on. home improvement ideas,” said Energy efficient and historical- Tour coordinator Margo Ash- ly-sensitive remodels get special more. “Homeowners on the notice among the approximately

Page 4 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Community chats about Hiawatha Golf Course during focus sessions By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN Nov. 13 at Hiawatha Golf Course Community members shared that focused on “golf” and “Afri- their thoughts about the Hi- can American history” at Minne- awatha Golf Course during infor- apolis golf courses. mal focus sessions in November. A fifth session on Indigenous The Minneapolis Park and history is being planned with Recreation Board (MPRB) held help from those communities. two of five focus session meet- As the Hiawatha Golf ings on Nov. 8 at the Nokomis Course Community Adviso- Recreation Center. ry Committee (CAC) moves “The sessions are a tool for through its planning process, park board staff and the design committee meetings will be team to listen to the commu- interspersed with community nity’s conversations surround- focus sessions. ing specific themes,” explained Another series of focus MPRB Design Project Manager sessions is expected in late Tyler Pederson. January/early February 2019, “Nov. 8 night’s focus on and a third set in late Febru- ‘environment’ and ‘neighbors’ ary/early March. was very successful. The team By the CAC’s seventh meet- heard many great comments ing in April, it is expected to from the community and com- have a draft master plan and ments from folks we had not final CAC recommendations yet heard from.” that will go out to the commu- There were four tables of nity for a 45-day review peri- between six to eight commu- od. The planning committee nity members. Each table was will then hold a public hearing asked to record their comments on the plan, and the board of and conversations on sheets of commissioners will vote on the paper and on large maps. Community Advisory Committee member Sean Connaughty (second from left) chats with community members issue in July 2019. Some comments revolved during informal focus sessions on neighborhood and environment at the Nokomis Recreation Center on Nov. 8. around watershed issues. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) Visioning “The city, park board, and At the same time, the com- Minnehaha Creek Watershed munity advisory committee is want residents to see the prob- derstand how they can be sep- (all 180 square miles),” stated mate and a bigger area than working to create a vision to lems as individual areas; how- arated when the whole water- Joan Soholt in an email fol- just the golf course. guide their work at Hiawatha ever, we do not and cannot un- shed drains into Lake Hiawatha lowing the focus session. She Safety, art, changing the Golf Course. is a CAC member who is also fence, creating a trail around At the October 2018 meet- part of the Nokomis/Hiawatha the entire lake, and wetland ing, CAC members reviewed Water Sustainability group. restoration were also among the vision statement devel- Fellow group member Monica the topics discussed. oped in 2015 for the larger McNaughton also pushed for Nokomis-Hiawatha Master a comprehensive study that More focus sessions planned Plan. (The golf course wasn’t incorporates the changing cli- Two more sessions were held on included in the master plan- ning process for the regional park at the time.) The vision of the Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park Master Plan is to main- tain Nokomis-Hiawatha’s sta- tus as a premier regional park by enhancing the existing well- loved amenities and adding se- lect new features. The park will continue to offer a range of The environment and neighborhood were topics during informal focus ses- recreation activities located pri- sions on neighborhood and environment at the Nokomis Recreation Center marily within three identified on Nov. 8. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) focus areas, rather than scatter- ing active uses throughout the park. The remaining parkland will be used for more natural A focus session about the history of African American golfers at Hiawatha amenities, passive recreation, Golf Course was held on Nov. 13. (Photo courtesy of the Minneapolis Parks and trail use. and Recreation Board) Guy Michaelson of Berger Partnership pointed out that the landscape is steeped in leg- acy, it’s cherished and historic, it’s a treasured destination, and it’s gathering place. In addition to enhanc- ing the human experience, there’s also the opportunity to strengthen ecology, and the two can thrive together, en- couraged Michaelson. He be- lieves there are innovative ways to solve the stormwater prob- lem while creating a cool park experience and building “in- fun-structure.” Michaelson suggested that CAC members welcome ab- surdity because along the way those are the ideas that are memorable and create special places. Ultimately, he stated that the lens to look through for this project is the Grand Rounds legacy of ecology, equi- ty, recreation, and experience. Community members may contribute to the visioning pro- cess at https://form.jotform. com/composidore/lake-hi- awatha-visioning. www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • December 2018 Page 5 They/Them Project shows and tells transgender life stories By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN someone asked which pronouns Photographer and activist you use? Every person answered, Brent Dundore has been work- ‘Please, ask!’” Using the pro- ing on the They/Them Project for nouns a person prefers is a sign the past two years, and he doesn’t of respect. see the project ending any time Dundore is an accom- soon. So far, he has interviewed plished photographer with a and photographed 33 gender celebrity and commercial port- non-conforming individuals, giv- folio, and an impressive cor- ing them a platform to be seen porate client and publications and heard. list. He currently runs BD Por- “This project has meant a traits Studio (BDPortraits.com) lot to me,” Dundore said, “be- in the Powderhorn neighbor- cause it’s given me the chance to hood. His activist photography educate myself and others about credentials include starting the gender diversity. When it comes “Marry Us Campaign,” “Broad- down to it, this project is often way Legacy,” celebrating black seen through the photographs— Broadway artists, the “Why but if people aren’t listening to I Ride Project” in support the interviews, they aren’t get- of the AIDS fundraising bike ting what they can from the rides, “My Voice Seen,” and the project. If you look at the imag- Xochi de la Luna (left) and Brent Dundore (right) co-hosted a gender discussion at Peace Coffee, in support of “They/Them Project.” es and they mean anything to the They/Them Project on exhibit there through Dec. 5. On the wall behind them are portraits from the project. Who is Dundore trying to you, they will mean much more (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) reach with his current project? when you hear the participants “Anyone willing to listen,” he tell their own stories.” said. “Go to the website,” he reit- Some of those stories are not a man. Those of us who are trans, he/him. “This project got start- our own individual outlooks on erated, “everything is there.” what you would expect. There is we want to live in a world where ed because I wanted to challenge life. I asked each project partici- The ongoing podcast can be Emma, age eleven at the time of there aren’t so many assumptions my own ignorance on gender, pant, ‘Could you imagine a situ- seen and heard at TheyThemProj- her interview. Emma prefers she/ made about who we are because and to better understand people ation in which you’d be upset if ect.org. her and they/them pronouns, of our gender.” who are gender non-conform- though she presents herself as a Dundore, who identifies as ing,” he said. Sporting a t-shirt boy. When Dundore asked her, cisgender, gay and bisexual, and that read, “Pronouns matter,” he “Do you feel more like a boy a husband, uses the pronouns explained, “We’re all people with when you wear a suit or other boy’s clothes?” She answered, “No, I feel more like me.” Language is fluid, and subject to change. For instance, the The They/Them Project word queer was once used by homophobes to negatively de- is currently on exhibit at Peace scribe a gay man or woman. The term later was reclaimed by Coffee (3262 Minnehaha Ave.). The images will be on view there the gay community and became a synonym of the LGBT fight until Dec. 5. towards equality. On Nov. 1, Dundore and From the 2017 Associated Press Stylebook, considered project participant Xochi de la the textbook for correct grammar and usage of the English Luna co-hosted a community dis- language: they/them/their is acceptable in limited cases as a cussion about gender attended singular or gender-neutral pronoun when alternative wording by a couple of dozen people. Em- is overly awkward or clumsy. ma’s sentiments were repeated by others from the project in atten- Cisgender means to align with the socially acceptable gen- dance, as well as those in the au- der norm. dience not part of the project. Transgender is an umbrella term for people whose gender Xochi identifies as a-gender identity does not match the one assigned their physical sex at and uses the pronouns they/them. birth. Generally, it refers to anyone whose behavior or identity Xochi said, “I felt like I was living falls outside of stereotypical expectations of gender. Transgen- in a box when I was growing up der people may identify as straight, gay, bisexual, or in some as a boy. I just never was attached to the idea of what it meant to be other way.

Diverse community members came together to talk about what gender identity and gender expression mean to them. Upcoming gender discussions will take place at the Minneapolis Jewish Community Center and Lutheran Social Services’ Center for Changing Lives. Check www.brentdundore.com for details. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin)

Page 6 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Local boy battles rare illness Continued from page 1 had been inflamed, both of his arms and legs were weak at first, but some movement came back within the first two weeks as the inflammation went down. Later, they realized that his left leg had also been affected, and he can’t stand on his tiptoes or heels. He often catches his foot and trips when he’s moving fast. Four months out, his stamina is still low, and he tires quickly. At home, mother Elaine (left) and father Michael hook four-year-old Or- Orville, who turned four a ville Young up to an electrical stimulator while he plays video games. He month after he got sick, had been gets the stimulation twice a day for 15 minutes at a time. (Photo by Tesha pretty independent. Now he has M. Christensen) trouble dressing or feeding him- self. He is right-handed, so open- will be able to tap into a larg- neapolis. (https://theaweso- ing doors is difficult. Pulling up er network of people, includ- meartshow.wixsite.com/orville- his pants is really hard. ing polio survivors, to make theawesome) Orville’s right bicep and del- sure Orville has a community This will be a celebration toid are completely flaccid and of people who understand the of art and community with live have not contracted even once challenges he faces. bluegrass music from No Man’s since he got sick. Elaine has Michael doesn’t think his String Band, face painting from begun noticing that his right arm son understands yet how perma- homeschooler Jesica Gibson of is smaller than the other. nent the paralysis is. Painted Imagination, and a si- His right hip remains weak. One of the hardest things for lent auction and raffle featur- If he jumps off something and him and Elaine was a few weeks ing art, handmade goods, tick- lands a certain way, it’s likely that out from Orville’s hospitaliza- ets, passes, and gift baskets. his right leg will buckle. tion when they realized how lit- Admission is a suggested tle control they have over this ill- $5. Proceeds will go towards ‘It’s just a cold’ Orville Young, age four, goes to therapy at Gillette Children Specialty ness. “We can’t protect him from Orville’s medical bills. Healthcare in St. Paul four times a week. “The hope is that he can regain has new meaning it,” Michael stated. “We can’t The event is being orga- function,” remarked his mother, Elaine. “But even then he’ll probably never promise him that we can make nized by South Minneapolis Life after Orville’s illness has regain 100 percent.” (Photo submitted by Elaine E. Eller Young) it better.” resident Jenna Bergendahl, taken on a new routine. They Elaine has found support in who is part of the homeschool juggle Orville’s various ap- a Facebook group populated by group, Little Urban Explorers, pointments with research and families from around the world that the Youngs are also mem- have been grateful for meals who are dealing with this po- bers of. and babysitting from friends lio-like illness. “I think part of being in and family. “There are cases from 30 community with each other is “I have a 9-5 job spending years ago,” Elaine pointed out. helping each other, and I love time on the phone,” acknowl- “This isn’t a new thing. The new the idea of the homeschool edged Elaine, who is a stay-at- thing is the numbers. It’s hap- community coming togeth- home mom who homeschools pening in larger amounts.” er for each other in this way,” their children. “I keep my ringer To help spread awareness stated Bergendahl. on now.” and work on solutions, the She’s also “constantly para- Youngs and other Minnesota She has been delighted by noid,” she admitted. families met with Senator Amy the response of homeschool- “The term, ‘It’s just a cold’ Klobuchar and staff from the ers and community members means a whole lot more to me Minnesota Department of Health who have donated items to be now,” agreed Michael. in October. in the silent auction and raf- Orville refers to his right arm fle, as well as those who have as his “wonky arm.” His parents About AFM opted to be part of the youth said he’s pretty good about main- art show. Overall, the Youngs feel lucky In addition to individu- taining a positive spirit about his that Orville’s case was mild as it many appointments although he al submissions, courageous has been. Others can’t walk. heARTS at 2235 E. 38th St. is does get tired of it all sometimes. Most people affected by involved. Orville goes to therapy AFM are children under the “I hope this will be a pow- at Gillette Children Specialty age of 10. While the polio vac- erful experience for the kids— Healthcare in St. Paul four times cine guards against poliovirus not only to have their art treat- a week. He rides a functional (a type of enterovirus), there ed with the kind of respect electrical stimulation bike and is no vaccine for the strain of uses a robotic exoskeleton arm. enterovirus that Orville con- usually reserved for adult, pro- He’s started therapy in a pool tracted. Symptoms may include fessional artists—but also to and picked out a fun swim cap facial-muscle weakness, issues know that they made a dona- and bathrobe to use. They play moving the eyes or droopy eye- tion to a local family with their games and try different things, lids, issues in swallowing, or submission and to see a little but there isn’t a set protocol for slurred speech. It can also lead bit of that impact at the show,” this and no guarantee that it will A Go Fund Me page has also been set up for the family to help purchase a to paralysis, respiratory issues, remarked Bergendahl. help, according to Elaine. child-size functional electrical stimulation bike for Orville to use at home. and death. “I know many parents are At home, he is hooked up to Right now he’s just able to ride the one at Gillette once a week. More at There have been two cases of looking for ways to engage an electrical stimulator twice a https://www.gofundme.com/fes-bike-for-orville. (Photo submitted by Elaine AFM in Minnesota in July, and their kids in the community, day for 15 minutes at a time. E. Eller Young) another seven from the end of and helping them see them- He’s about to get a brace on September/beginning of October. selves as people who contrib- his left leg to use for long walks The kids have nothing in com- ute, share, and lend what they to help keep him from falling “But even then he’ll probably positivity, and tells others, “I’m can to others. I think that this never regain 100 percent.” a buff guy.” They started nick- mon, did not come in contact so much. with each other, and come from event will be a very hands-on, While they work with oc- When paralysis like this hap- naming him “Lefty” to pay at- tangible way for young people pens at such a young age, the arm all over the state, observed Elaine. cupational and physical thera- tention to his strong left arm, to see what’s possible when we doesn’t grow as it should, and but Orville batted back, “No, Parents are advised to keep a pists, Elaine and Michael are also come together for each other. some of the kids affected have call me Righty.” watchful eye for AFM symptoms meeting with specialists who It’s also going to be a lot of undergone amputations. The couple acknowledges and bring a child to the doctor have successfully treated this type fun!” Elaine said she was glad Or- that they have a fine line to walk immediately if they experience of paralysis with a nerve transfer. A Go Fund Me page has ville’s doctor was straightforward between pushing Orville to re- any limb weakness, facial droop- For instance, they take a cough- also been set up for the family with them and didn’t sugarcoat gain function and accepting him ing, and trouble swallowing or ing muscle and move it to the speaking. to help purchase a child-size arm and then work to rewire the things. “But I also decided he was for who he is now and letting going to be wrong. I was going him just be a kid. More at www.myelitis.org. functional electrical stimula- brain. The Youngs anticipate a tion bike for Orville to use at surgery in January at either Phila- to do everything in my power to “We can’t forget the other make him wrong,” she stated. parts of him,” said Michael, who Benefit for Orville planned home. Right now he’s just able delphia Shriners or in California. to ride the one at Gillette once It will take 6-12 months after sur- is a special educator at Groves A benefit youth art show for a week. Learn more at www. gery to know how effective it is. A fine line to walk Academy. “I want him to be body Orville the Awesome is being gofundme.com/fes-bike-for-or- “The hope is that he can re- positive and pro-disability.” planned for Sun., Dec. 16, Michael and Elaine are happy ville. As of Messenger press time gain function,” remarked Elaine. that Orville has a lot of body They are glad that they 3-6pm at the Public Function- ary, 1400 12th Ave. NE, Min- they had raised $15,147. www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • December 2018 Page 7 Community Connects makes a web of public art in Longfellow By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN Community Connects is the name of an innovative partnership between metal artists Sara Han- son and Jessica Bergman Tank, programs participants at Metro Work Center—along with their direct care professionals—and the Longfellow neighborhood. Since 2013, these many sets of hands have worked together to make cast metal sculptures for exhibit and use in public places. This year, Community Con- nects partnered with four very dif- ferent enterprises: Alexander’s Im- port Auto Repair, Minnehaha Lake Wine & Spirits, Moon Palace Books, and the Third Precinct Police De- partment. All four partner sites are Sara Hanson (left) and Jessica Bergman Tank (right) are the creators of within walking distance of Metro Community Connects. They’ve made cast iron and aluminum sculptures in Work Center (MWC) (see the article partnership with Metro Work Center since 2013, and the finished sculp- on page 2), which is housed in Holy tures can be visited throughout the Longfellow neighborhood. The func- Trinity Lutheran Church. tional art table shown here is a permanent installation at the East Lake Proximity was a factor in Library. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) choosing the partner sites. MWC participants are developmentally disabled, and some also have mo- bility issues. This piece made for Alexander’s Import Auto Repair used on-site textures Hanson and Bergman Tank representative of an auto repair shop: castors, gears, and tools. (Photo pro- are both independent community vided by Community Connects) artists. When they work together, they call themselves Metal in the Void. Their art making uses the cast metal process to bring people to- gether, and to affect change in peo- ple’s lives and environments. Com- munity Connections was conceived as a way to integrate MWC partici- pants into the surrounding neigh- borhood, and to give them a great art-making experience too. Beginning in August, the whole crew of community artists spent several days at each of the Minnehaha Lake Wine & Spirits is currently exhibiting all of this year’s partner sites. They worked together sculptures in their front window at 2613 E. Lake St. (Photo provided by to press patterns and textures into Community Connects) clay, or to mold clay objects by hand. Techniques for manipulating clay are adaptable to different levels an appropriation form the Arts and of fine and gross motor skills and Cultural Heritage Fund. cognitive abilities. Hanson has a workshop on Bergman Tank explained, wheels (a portable foundry) and a The process of creating art promotes daily living skills, problem-solving, “Metal casting involves work- studio in SE Minneapolis; she can team building, community integration, self-empowerment and, last but ing at very high temperatures, so be reached at sarahansonwow@ not least, it’s fun. (Photo provided by Community Connects) most of the melting and pouring gmail.com. was done in-studio. We did do a Bergman Tank is the found- demonstration pour at MWC with ry director and volunteer coor- one of our portable furnaces, so dinator for the Chicago Fire Arts everyone could see what the pro- Center in South Minneapolis, cess was. This type of art-making and also has a portable furnace Members of the Police Department is very process focused; it’s not she can bring to arts and com- Community Engagement Team just about what the finished prod- munity activities. She can be joined community artists in final- uct looks like.” reached at jessbergmantank@ izing the piece that will hang in The finished sculptures have gmail.com. the Third Precinct building. (Photo been hanging in the front window provided by Community Connects) of Minnehaha Lake Wine & Spirits since early October and will stay up through the end of the year. MWC participants will then bring each of them home to the four partner sites where they’ll be on permanent display. Hanson said, “It’s important that the MWC par- ticipants be able to see their work when they walk through the neigh- borhood. That experience brings a sense of pride and professionalism that is part of community connec- tion. Past projects have been done with Longfellow Family Dental, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Gandhi Mahal Restaurant, and the East Lake Library. Consider taking a walk through the neighborhood to see how many of the sculptures you can find. Community art projects like this (and the connections that they build) are part of what hold a community together. Commu- nity Connects is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board, and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to

Page 8 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com to Hayes Harlow Develop- Min Hi Line ment, who is also working on Continued from page 1 a development at 46th St. and Minnehaha Ave. long path along a former railroad corridor in south Minneapolis Extension over river with bicycling and walking trails Recently, the Min High Line that opened in three phases since Coalition has banded with the 2000 thanks to the grassroots ad- Midtown Greenway Coalition to vocacy of the coalition. support extending the Greenway The section between Hi- over the Short Line bridge to St. awatha Ave. and the river opened Paul. in 2006, and the Martin Olav “The bridge is also the rail Sabo Bridge was erected in 2007 outlet for the Min Hi Line corri- so that users could avoid the dor, and a future in which that dangerous at-grade intersection bridge connects Greenway bike at 28th and Hiawatha. and pedestrian traffic over the Currently, the first section Mississippi would mean vast of Min Hi Line pathway is being transportation and economic installed by the city just south impact at a regional level,” re- of the Sabo Bridge between the marked Peterson. Greenway and Lake St. “It is very exciting to see Creating an attractive corridor the aspiration for the complete Peterson is a returned resident Min Hi Line begin to be realized of Minneapolis. While she lived through trail installations at the elsewhere, she said she benefit- north and south ends of the cor- ed from creative, modern parks ridor,” commented Peterson. developments that have trans- The next section of the linear formed various inner-city neigh- park slated for completion is on borhoods such as the Atlanta the south end. It will be part of Beltline and the New Your City The Capp development at 46th High Line. and Minnehaha Ave. being built Like the Min Hi Line, the At- by Oppidan Development in the lanta Beltline sit in an at-grade old railway bed from Nawadaha corridor. Construction on the Blvd. north to 46th St. Atlanta Beltline’s East Side trail “It’s an idea whose time began 2011, through an area of has finally come with the Oppi- Atlanta that feels similar to the dan development because they Min Hi Line corridor neighbor- choose to orientate their devel- hoods, Peterson pointed out. opment to the line,” remarked The Atlanta Beltline had an Peterson. initial projected return on in- Another early pilot project is vestment of $3.5 for each $1 of near the General Mills grain el- public/private investment. The evators at 3716 Dight Ave. “His- project has already doubled that torically, General Mills has been return, reaching $7 to $1—and a strong supporter of the park the entire 22-mile Beltline loop system in Minneapolis, and so around the city of Atlanta will this seemed like a promising op- not be completed for another de- The Min Hi Line is a piece that would connect to the Greenway and a larger network around the Twin Cities. Or- portunity. Council member An- cade. ganizers support extending the Midtown Greenway over the Short Line Bridge to St. Paul. (Graphic courtesy of the drew Johnson was instrumental “We hope the city of Minne- Min Hi Line Coalition) in facilitating meetings between apolis and Hennepin County will General Mills and possible com- work with developers, like Oppi- munity-oriented developers that dan, who see the value and want development along with other been identified by the Minneap- topic is essential to guide the were interested in purchasing to be a part of developing the building in the corridor,” stated olis Parks and Recreation Board Min Hi Line corridor’s equitable the site,” observed Min Hi Line Min Hi Line, and work in part- Peterson. as needing parks. “Installing a development—to help elected co-founder Van Wylen. nership with those developers to She observed that most of park and path in the old railway officials and developers under- The site was recently sold find ways to finance the park’s the Min Hi Line corridor has bed will preserve public green stand the corridor’s highest and space in the corridor even as the best use for Minneapolis resi- corridor becomes attractive to dents,” remarked Peterson. “Most private, for-profit development,” important is that interested res- said Peterson. idents consistently bring up the Min Hi Line with elected officials Submit photos and stories at Minneapolis, Hennepin Coun- New housing and commercial ty, and Minneapolis Parks and buildings are already popping up Recreation.” along the Min Hi Line as the cor- Landscape architecture de- ridor’s historic freight rail traffic sign students mocked up some gives way to new uses that serve Min Hi Line visuals, which East Nokomis, Longfellow, and can be viewed on the group’s Seward neighborhoods. There are Facebook page. “We want more currently three businesses that visual arts work like that to pro- are still using the CP Rail freight pel the Min Hi Line image for- line (Archer Daniels Midland, ward,” said Peterson. Leder Brothers Metal and General Peterson encourages resi- Mills), which has put the Min Hi dents to follow www.facebook. Line at a simmer until they are com/minhiline, and link photos no longer active. and stories about the corridor to “Civic engagement on this the Min Hi Line Facebook page.

Currently, the first section of Min Hi Line pathway is being installed by the city just south of the bridge between the Greenway and Lake St. “It is very exciting to see the aspiration for the complete Min Hi Line begin to be real- ized through trail installations at the north and south ends of the corridor,” commented Min High Line Coalition co-founder Cora Peterson, who grew up in the Nokomis neighborhood. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • December 2018 Page 9 Transgender visibility event The Messenger staff would like to wish everyone a stretches across Lake St. into St. Paul joyous holiday season and peace filled new year.

Protesters gathered along Lake St. from Chicago Ave. and into St. Paul, in a demonstration of solidarity with the local transgender, intersex, and gender-expansive community. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin)

By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN identity. Many of the protest signs they were assigned at birth. An On Oct. 28, local transgen- declared, “We won’t be erased.” unknown number of Ameri- der community members and 1.4 million Americans cans are intersex, or were born allies came together for a visibil- identifying as transgender, or with any of several variations ity event. People of all ages lined a gender other than the one in sex characteristics including the south side curb of Lake St., chromosomes, gonads, sex hor- starting at Chicago Ave. heading mones, or genitals outside of east well into St. Paul. They stood what is typically seen as male or sat, shoulder to shoulder, and and female. did not obstruct traffic or side- One participant said, “The walk use. event was hugely significant, Minneapolis City Coun- I feel, for its visibility. Often, cil members Phillipe Cun- transgender people are forced ningham and Andrea Jenkins, to hide who they are or are who are both transgender, ad- scared of what will happen if dressed the crowd in front of the they’re out or outed. For them Third Precinct Police Station at to be that visible, and to be so Minnehaha Ave and E. Lake St. well loved and supported, was Trained marshals from the Min- tremendous.” nesota Women’s March provided critical support along the protest route. The event was in response to the Oct. 25 Department of Justice statement that workplace discrim- Neighborhood Churches Welcome You! ination against transgender peo- ple does not violate federal law. The event, which was pulled to- Bethlehem Covenant Church Spirit Garage - The church with the St. Peder’s Evangelical Lutheran On Oct. 21, the New York Times gether in two days, received praise 3141 43rd Ave. S. • 612-721-5768 really big door 4600 E. 42nd St. • 612-722-8000 published a memo in which for its accessibility. There was no www.bethlehemcov.org Worship: 10:30 AM Sundays www.stpeders.org the Department of Health and march to coordinate; people just Rev. Matthew Kennedy Christmas Eve service @ 4 PM Julie A. Ebbesen, Pastor Handicapped Accessible Garage Band Christmas Show: December 9 am Kids and Youth Faith Formation Human Services discussed plans showed up along the route to sit or Contemporary Worship – 8:45am 16 at 4 & 7 PM 10 am Coffee & Fellowship to revoke Title IX civil rights pro- stand for one hour. (Photo by Mar- gie O’Loughlin) Sunday school – 10:00am The Hook & Ladder Theater & Lounge 10:30 am Adult Faith Formation tections on the basis of gender Traditional Worship – 11:00am 3010 Minnehaha Ave. • 612-827-1074 Worship for Advent and Christmas Espanol – 1:30pm www.spiritgarage.org Sundays, 9 am Worship (childcare available) Kids Pageant – Dec. 16 at 10:30am “From Darkness to Light” Advent poetry Sunday, Dec. 2 Advent Holy Communion, Dec. 23 & Dec. 30 – one service at 10:30am and writing evening Gift Sunday Candlelight Christmas Eve Services – December 5, 7-9 PM at Squirrel Haus Sunday, Dec. 9 Worship, Sunday school Family Dentistry 4:30pm & 10:00pm pageant Arts Pastor: Holly Johnson Sunday, Dec. 16 Song Service, singing Epworth United Methodist Music: John Kerns and bands around tree Joan Jakubas, D.D.S. 3207 37th Ave. • 612-722-0232 Sunday, Dec. 23 Fourth Sunday of Advent www.epworthmpls.org St. Albert the Great Catholic Worship Jenna Swenson, D.D.S. Pastor Steven Reiser E. 29th St. at 32nd Ave. S. • Christmas Eve: 2:00 and 5:00 Festival • General Dentisty Sunday Worship: 10:30 am 612-724-3643 Worship (Childcare Provided) www.saintalbertthegreat.org 3:15 Danish Service • Cosmetic Bonding (Wheelchair Accessible) Fr. Joe Gillespie, O.P. Sunday, Dec. 30 Worship • Whitening Upcoming: Sunday Mass: 9:30 am (Childcare available) Holy Communion is celebrated on the first December 2 - Advent Workshop Saturday Mass: 5 pm Sunday of the month. • Crown and Bridge Work December 9 - Brunch Bunch @ Epworth M,T, Th, F: Rosary at 8 am, Daily Mass (Handicap acc., Braille, Large Print) December 10 - UMW Christmas Potluck 8:15 am New Patients Welcome! December 12 - Beer & Bible @ Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, Trinity Lutheran Church Merlin’s Rest of Minnehaha Falls Our name has changed, First Fridays from 9 am to noon December 16 - Christmas Caroling (Handicapped accessible) 5212 41st Ave. S. • 612-724-3691 our providers have not. December 24 - Candlelight Christmas Eve www.trinityfalls.org Service 7 p.m. Pastor Matt Oxendale Sunday Worship 10:30 am 612-721-3012 Minnehaha Communion Lutheran Sunday School/kids & adults 9:15 am 4101 37th Ave. S. • 612-722-9527 Christmas Eve Services: 4 & 10 pm Comprehensive, Gentle Dentistry with Above and Beyond Service www.minnehahacommunion.com AA Sun & Tues 7:00 pm www.MinnehahaFallsFamilyDental.com Pastors Dan and Sally Ankerfelt Sunday Worship – 9:45 am Formerly Jakubas Dental Sunday School – 9:45 am PROJECT OF NEIGHBORHOOD CHURCHES Serving you since 1988 Children’s Christmas Program – 12/16 Minnehaha Food Shelf, at 9:45 am Serving People Tuesday, 10:30 am - 3 pm 4554 Minnehaha Ave. S. Longest Night Service – 12/23 at 4:00 pm Mpls., MN 55406 (for those grieving during the holidays) Call us at 612-721-6231 Christmas Eve Service -12/24 at 4:00 pm Minnehaha United Methodist • 3701 E. 50th St. Most Insurance Accepted • Ample Parking (Wheelchair Accessible)

Page 10 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com In Our Community

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ebration from 7-9pm on Thur., ists. The Mission Room will also ers). Many more favorites will Join Nokomis Healthy A rocking Christmas Dec. 20. Wisdom Dances is host- be available as a facility to host also be available like Guava Pas- Seniors on Fri., Dec. 7, from ing the event at Lake Nokomis community meetings, local orga- telitos, Empanadas, Croquetas, 1-3pm, for a free Diabetes Sup- scheduled Dec. 16 Presbyterian Church, 1640 E. nizational fundraisers, and spe- Chicharron. port Group at Nokomis Library, Are you ready to rock Christmas? 46th St. cial events. Initial hours of the restaurant 5100-34th Ave. S. Call NHS at Spirit Garage, a Christian faith Move with the cycle of the FPAC has grown without any will be Sun.-Thur., 4-9pm and Fri.- 612-729-5499 for more informa- community that uses the power seasons and be carried by a public (city, county, state, or fed- Sat., 4-11pm. You can check them tion. of music to build communities, dancing circle. This celebration eral) funding and has relied on out online at GuavasCubaCafe. Get your blood pressure will sponsor “A Garage Band is based in Laura Shannon’s re- ticket purchases, individual dona- com. checked, socialize with your Xmas 10: Rockstar of Bethlehem” search on traditional women’s tions, and beverage sales. The neighbors, and enjoy a treat at The Hook and Ladder Theater ritual dances from the Balkans success has been largely achieved and coffee at Nokomis Healthy and Lounge, 3010 Minnehaha as a living wisdom tradition. Mu- with local volunteers instead of a Tour of Norway Seniors’ “Nurse is In” drop-in Ave., on Sun., Dec. 16. This free sical accompaniment by guitar- paid staff. free Blood Pressure Clinic every holiday concert will rock out to ist and bouzoukist Greg Herriges planned May 2019 Thursday from 9:30-11:30am at the funky and bluesy styling of will be featured. Longfellow resident and auth- Nokomis Healthy Seniors inside your favorite Christmas season No experience or partner is Quiet Hours planned or Eric Dregni is organizing a Bethel Lutheran Church. No res- tunes with two shows at 4pm necessary. Newcomers and all tour to Norway from May 13-23, ervations required. and 7pm. genders are welcome. If possible, at the Healing Hub 2019. Among Dregni’s 16 books, The Women’s Art Group This year’s special guest is please wear white, but do not Spend quiet time in the Com- two are on Norwegian history meets every Wednesday, 10am- Humbird, a unique folks singer hesitate to come as you are. munity Healing Hub, a place for and culture. Eric lived in Norway 12pm, at Bethel Church. Bring who has toured and amazed the calm and quiet in an overwhelm- for a year as a Fulbright fellow. your art or craft projects to work nation with her lilting voice. The ing world. All are welcome to the His Norway tour is open to the on while socializing. Free. concert will be fun for all ages, Remembrance Hub at Minnehaha Communion public and features nine nights On Tues., Dec. 11 at 1-3pm hipsters to families and everyone Lutheran, 4101 37th Ave. S. including Oslo, Bergen, Dombas, there will be a free Low Vision in between, and you can lend service set Dec. 23 Upon entering the room two nights at a fjord hotel and Support Group meeting at your voice and sing along. Free Minnehaha Communion Luth­ there is no talking or noise mak- Trondheim to celebrate Syttende Nokomis Square Co-op, 5015- refreshments and fresh baked eran Church, 4101 37th Ave. S., ing, and people are asked to set Mai, Norwegian National 35th Ave. S. cookies will be available. will be holding a “Longest Night” electronic devices aside. Seekers Constitution Day. For more infor- service of remembrance, reflec- coming into this space will expe- mation contact Eric at dregni@ tion and prayer for those coping rience: csp.edu. Advent Procession Telling Our Stories to with grief and loss this holiday – Soft, ambient lighting (a fire- season. Whether it is old grief or place once it’s cooler outside) scheduled Dec. 2 meet Nov. 30, Dec. 28 new grief, the loss of a person or – Calming music Free program slated Mount Olive Music and Fine Arts “Elder Voices Telling Our Stories” pet, all are welcome on Dec. 23, – Light aromatherapy presents its annual Advent Pro- will meet Nov. 30 and Dec. 28, at 4pm. – Allowed use of sensory items at St. Peder's cession Service at 4pm on Sun., 10am-11:30am, at Turtle Bread (weighted blankets, neck scarves, Dr. Judith James will present Dec. 2. The church is located Company (4205-34th Ave.). fidget items) “What Can I Do!! if someone at 3045 Chicago Ave. S. Mount They will be telling their stor- Advent activities – Tea and water will be available I love is addicted?” James, an Olive Cantorei is under the di- ies respecting their retirement The time can be used to educator and Licensed Alcohol rection of Director and Organ- journeys. Additional topics will planned at Epworth meditate, read (refrain reading and Drug Counselor, will present ist David Cherwien. This event is include Open Enrollment for Epworth UMC, 3207 37th Ave. from an electronic device), write, information on how the brain free and open to the public. Medicare experiences and take- S., welcomes you to get into the draw, pray, or just sitting in si- functions in chemically depend- Mark the season with a sol- aways from the mid-term elec- spirit of Advent with your fam- lence. There is no talking or noise ent people, what to do with your emn procession and a series of tions as it relates to Social Security, ily and enjoy fellowship, food, making during this time. This is addiction fatigue, and how to lessons and carols for Advent, Medicare, Medicaid, drug prices fun, and crafts galore to kick off a time meant for those that can remain compassionate and caring and enter this season of hope in and more the Advent season! Enjoy a free sit quietly for a bit of time, be- toward your loved one as you care the darkest time of the year. Can- taco lunch, Christmas crafts and cause of this the opportunity is for yourself. The program will dles, incense and beautiful music participate in our service project best suited for individuals at least be sponsored on Mon., Nov. 26, all invite the listener to engage in NA group meets making blankets for Harriet Tub- ten years of age. 6-7:30pm at St. Peder's Lutheran this profound liturgical season. man on Sun., Dec. 2, 12:30-3pm. Come and go as you like. Church, 4600 E. 42nd St. The This is the third event in twice weekly They will be collecting dona- Stay for 5 minutes or the whole event is free to the public. the 2018-19 Mount Olive Music A Narcotics Anonymous group tions of canned food for the Food 2 hours. The Community Heal- and Fine Arts season. For further meets every Wednesday at Shelf, and warm adult socks, as ing Hub will host this every information on this event, and on 7:30pm, and every Friday even- well as adult and children’s mittens Monday from 4-6pm until Dec. Cabin Fever the Music and Fine Arts program, ing at 7pm at Faith Evangelical alike to decorate their Mitten Tree. 17. There is no cost associated, please contact Dr. Cherwien at the Lutheran, 3430 E. 51st St. and we will request that seekers continues at Epworth church office at 612-827-5919, Everyone is welcome to attend. complete a short survey after by email at cantor@mountoli- Local art center to their experience so we can better On Wednesdays through Dec. 19, vechurch.org, or online at www. serve the community. Epworth UMC (3207 37th Ave. mountolivechurch.org. Dregni to present expand in 2019 A host will be available if S.) offers indoor play space for assistance or additional support kids 0-5 years old from 9:30- The Firehouse Performing is desired. 11:30am. Large and small motor Music Wednesdays free talk Dec. 8 Arts Center (FPAC) and the activities, crafts, and a healthy Longfellow resident and author, Hook & Ladder Theater at 3010 snack are provided free of charge. scheduled in Dec. Eric Dregni will give a free talk Minnehaha Ave. will expand Cuban restaurant Kids must bring a caring adult about Norwegian culture at Norway operations by opening a perfor- with them to watch them as they Hook & Ladder Theater & House, 913 E. Franklin Ave., on mance space named “The Mis- opens in Nokomis play. Coffee and conversation for Lounge, 3010 Minnehaha Ave., Sat., Dec. 8, 2-3pm. It has been sion Room” in 2019. adults. Cabin Fever ends in mid- has scheduled performances for ten years since the publication of Recently celebrating two- Machado Food Concepts LLC, March. its popular Free Music Wednes- his book, “In Cod We Trust: Living years of non-profit operations, the owners of the Twin Cities Pa- days series. Doors open and the Norwegian Dream.” He will The Hook & Ladder has present- ella catering company, is planning happy hour for these free 21+ share slides and stories from win- ed more than 4,000 local, region- to open its first brick and mortar Nokomis seniors plan performances starts at 6pm, ter in Norway and read selections al, and national performing art- restaurant, Guavas Cuba Cafe. The with music at 7pm. The residen- from his book. You can go online ists across their various indoor/ restaurant will focus on Cuban Cui- upcoming events cies feature a variety of genres of at www.norwayhouse.org/calendar/ outdoor stages, and has already sine and will be located at 5605 music, all presented in a comfort- Chicago Ave. S. It will have beer Nokomis Healthy Seniors (NHS) able lounge setting. in-cod-we-trust for more informa- paid out nearly $500,000 in artist would like to invite the public tion on the event and Dregni. performance fees. and wine and initially be open only Dec. 5 features The Dang for dinner in its sit down restaurant. to the following programs and Ol’ Tri’ole (sponsored by Bent Scheduled to open in March events. Unless otherwise noted, 2019, The Mission Room will be With a Daily Brunch menu slated Paddle Brewing). The Dang Ol’ for a later date. events are held at Nokomis Tri’ole is a six-person bohemian Winter Solstice an intimate and accessible (100- Healthy Seniors, 4120 17th Ave. guest) community, performance, Chef Frank Machado will folk group. Having played to- focus on Cuban Cuisine, featur- S., in the Bethel Evangelical gether seven years, members have Celebration planned and gallery space designed to Church building. All events are serve local visual, literary, spo- ing some rice bowls topped with honed their skills to demonstrate Welcome the return of light with traditional Cuban stews, a simply free, open to all, and no reserva- fluency at their respective instru- the collective joy of music and ken word, singer-songwriter, and tions are required unless noted multi-media performance art- grilled section, as well as sand- dance at a Winter Solstice Cel- wiches and fritas (Cuban burg- otherwise. Continued on page 12 www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • December 2018 Page 11 37th Ave. S., and branches out apolis Community Education Healthy Seniors at 612-729- gram, or noteworthy news to us In Our Community from there. Please RSVP online for our annual Holiday Party 5799 or email us at info@ for consideration. Submit your Continued from page 11 at epworthmpls.org/event/christ- for Seniors on Tues., Dec. 18 LShealthyseniors.org for more item by email to editorial@der- mas-caroling-2018 so we know at 10:30am at Holy Trinity Lu- information on activities, servi- uyternelson.com. The deadline ments through complex melo- when we should expect you. You theran Church, 2730 E. 31st ces or volunteer opportunities. for the next issue is Mon., Dec. dies, dense compositions, impro- can join them throughout the St. Enjoy live music, lunch, 10 for the Dec. 26 issue. visational soloing and dynamic caroling as well – they’ll keep and door prizes! The event presentation. Whether presenting people updated where they are will be held in the basement Submit your news their more complicated pieces through texts! gymnasium, and doors will If you are an organization locat- or playing easy-going tunes, The Afterward, they will return open around 10am. The event Due to scheduling ed in the Longfellow Nokomis Dang Ol’ Tri’ole exhibits a highly for fellowship back at Epworth will last until noon or later. Messenger delivery area, you can conflict, delivery for next entertaining stage presence that for chili (vegetarian too!), snacks, All seniors who reside in submit your event, special pro- issue begins Dec. 26. mixes musicianship with humor. and warm drinks! greater Longfellow and Seward Dec. 12 will find Becky Ka- neighborhoods are welcome pell & The Fat 6 on stage (spon- to attend this free event (how- sored by Insight Brewing). “This Gamblers Anonymous ever, a suggested donation of late-bloomer Minneapolis coun- $2 is appreciated). Pre-regis- try crooner fell in with esteemed meets Wednesdays tration is not required. Call local twang vets Paul Bergen Longfellow/Seward Healthy and Erik Koskinen to craft her Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays from 6-7pm in Seniors at 612-729-5799 for debut album ‘That Certain Ache.’ more information. Her smoky but tender voice re- the Hope Room at Living Table Church, 3805 E. 40th St. Anyone A free monthly Diabetes calls Jeannie C. Riley while her Support Group for adults will songwriting has a Lucinda Wil- with a desire to stop gambling is welcome. be held on Wed., Dec. 12 from liams-like balance of down-and- 1–2:30pm at Trinity Apartments, out grit and hopeful beauty.” — 2800 E. 31st St. Anyone with Chris Riemenschneider, Minneap- Gorge Master Plan Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes is invit- olis Star Tribune ed to attend. Dec. 19 will feature the gets closer to ending The last “Rock Art” class Big George Jackson Blues Band (applying paint or polish on (sponsored by Able Seedhouse Thank you to all the communi- river stones) will be held on & Brewery). Vocalist/harmoni- ty members working together Mon., Dec. 5 at Trinity Apart- ca player Big George Jackson is to help develop the Mississip- ments, 2800 E. 31st St. Classes known as the “authentic big man pi Gorge Regional Park Master are $4/each, supplies included. of the blues.” He sings with a dis- Plan, a project that will create a Registration is required by call- tinctive bass-rich voice that only new long-term plan for all riv- ing 612-729-5799. a six-foot, six-inch gentle giant erfront parkland in Minneapo- Additionally, we’re look- could be blessed with. Add his lis between Bridge 9 (Dinky- ing for “Friendly Visitor” vol- fat harmonica playing, dead-on town Greenway bridge) and unteers and volunteer drivers phrasing, commanding stage Minnehaha Regional Park. to help seniors live independ- presence, and instant audience An open house with infor- ently. Call Longfellow/Seward rapport and it easy to understand mation on proposed plan ele- why the audience howls when he ments and park improvements delivers his music. will travel throughout Minneapo- And, on Dec. 28 Scottie lis on Fri., Nov. 30. There will be Miller will perform (sponsored by an open house from 5-6:30pm at Fair State Brewing Cooperative). the Longfellow Recreation Cen- Minneapolis based singer-song- ter, 3435 36th Ave. S. writer-pianist Miller recently Other open houses that released his tenth CD “Stay Above day include 8:30-10am at MPRB Water.” Miller was inducted into Headquarters; 12-1:30 pm at the the MN Blues Hall of Fame in University of Minnesota, Ralph 2017 and received an award for Rapson Hall Lobby; and 3-4 pm Best Self-Produced CD. Miller has at Coyle Community Center garnered international recogni- Community Room. tion as touring keyboardist for The final Community Advi- three-time Grammy-nominated sory Committee (CAC) meeting singer Ruthie Foster and is fea- is scheduled Mon., Dec. 10, 5:30- tured on her Blues Music Award 8:30pm at Minneapolis Park and winning CD “Live At Antone’s.” Recreation Board headquarters, 2117 W. River Rd. Anyone inter- ested in Mississippi Gorge Re- LGBTQ support group gional Park is welcome to attend. meets Saturdays Design Concepts Survey An updated survey showing A support group for LGBTQ adults revised planning concepts for living with mental illness meets focal areas within Mississippi weekly on Saturdays, 1-2:30pm, Gorge Regional Park is available at Living Table United Church online. The survey focuses on the of Christ, 3805 E. 40th St. This following areas: free support group is sponsored • Bohemian Flats by NAMI Minnesota (National • East River Flats Alliance on Mental Illness) and • Franklin Flats led by trained facilitators who are • Longfellow Beach/Minneapolis also in recovery. For information Boathouse Area call David at 612-920-3925 or call • Oak Savanna next to 36th St. 651-645-2948. • Riverside Park and Annie Young Meadow AA and NA meets The concepts incorporate feedback from the CAC, the Proj- Every Monday night there is an ect Advisory Committee (PAC), AA meeting at 7pm at Minnehaha public listening sessions, open Communion Lutheran Church house events, and emails from (4101 37th Ave. S.), and every interested community members. Tuesday and Wednesday night MPRB staff is eager to receive there is an AA meeting at 7:30pm. comments from the public on On Thursday night, there is an these park area concepts, along NA meeting at 7:30pm. All are with ideas for suggested chan- welcome to attend. ges. Go to www.surveymonkey. com/r/Gorge_draft_frameworks to take the survey, which has been Christmas Caroling extended to Mon., Dec. 10. Join in as we bring Christmas cheer to friends and neighbors at homes and residential facilities L/S Healthy Seniors by Christmas caroling on Sun., Dec. 16, 4-6:30pm. All voices December Events are needed! Everyone meets at Join Longfellow/Seward Epworth United Methodist, 3207 Healthy Seniors and Minne-

Page 12 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Team works to understand groundwater problem around Lake Nokomis Nokomis Area Groundwater and Surface Water Evaluation team discusses study results with residents

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN Kenny Blumenfield with the Depart- Why are there higher levels ment of Natural Resources climatol- of groundwater and standing ogy office chats with attendees at an water in previously dry areas open house on Oct. 24 regarding the of South Minneapolis, such increase in precipitation the depart- as Solomon Park and Lake ment has been tracking in Minne- Nokomis Park? sota over the past few years. There The Nokomis Area Ground- have been more storms with high- water and Surface Water Evalua- er rainfall levels, as well. (Photo by tion team is studying that prob- Tesha M. Christensen) lem and held an open house on Oct. 24 at the Lynnhurst Recre- ation Center. record in the Minnehaha Creek A primary goal of the net- watershed, this weather infor- work is to better understand mation allowed MCWD to op- water level trends and support erate the dam in a way that did water supply planning, according not result in any flooding on to members. Lake Minnetonka or Minnehaha The team is working to an- Creek. swer these questions: “It’s been a really helpful • Are surface water and ground- tool,” said Schaufler. water levels near Lake Nokomis rising, particularly south and Wells will help gather data west of the lake? The team is working to identify • To what extent do groundwater where data gaps exist, pointed levels interact with surface water out Schaufler. levels in this area? This summer, two new ob- • What are potential impacts to servation wells were installed public and private infrastructure at Solomon Park and Lake from rising water levels? Nokomis Park. These wells were • If groundwater and/or surface installed at the base of the water water levels are rising, why and table near the existing shallow what can be done about it? water table wells. As presented at the open Together, the new basal water house, the work of the techni- table wells and existing shallow cal team has included installing water table wells will provide in- new shallow groundwater wells, formation about the vertical flow reviewing groundwater elevation water levels around Nokomis of groundwater in the Nokomis data from existing monitoring would spike during rainfall area. In all, there are four observa- wells, understanding soil charac- events and snowmelt but drop, tion wells near Solomon Park and teristics and geology underlying during the winter. This has not Nokomis Park. the area, summarizing precipita- been happening the past 4-5 Two deeper bedrock aquifer tion data, modeling groundwa- years because of an increase in wells will be installed soon. The ter recharge rates, looking at the precipitation outside the growing six wells together will provide Lake Nokomis water levels, and season when the ground is not additional information about reviewing the operation of the frozen. This has led to increasing groundwater levels and move- Nokomis weir. groundwater recharge rates be- ment in the area, including ver- The team is first working cause plants are not growing and tical movement of groundwater. to understand the problem and taking up water. This year marked what solutions are. “Then we will the all-time snowiest start to a What’s next? prioritize which projects we will year (Jan. 1 - July 1, 2018). start with,” remarked Minneapo- Winter lake drops are like- The technical team will continue lis Surface Water and Sewers Ka- ly very important in controlling to map infrastructure impacts to trina Kessler. groundwater elevations in the determine if they are connected For the city of Minneapolis, area, pointed out a Barr Engi- to potential water level changes. this also means learning what neering document. It’s like a The team will also review water other projects are being done in giant seasonal drawdown well to elevation information on existing an area and working flood miti- remove built-up storage. sewer maps and measured water Scott Pearson of the Department of Natural Resources Ecological and Water levels from the city of Minneap- gation in too. Resources Department talks with attendees at the open house on Oct. 24 The annual precipitation in In south Minneapolis, this 2013-2016 was above average, olis’ water utility holes to gain a regarding groundwater and surface water around Lake Nokomis. (Photo by better understanding of ground- might mean enlarging the un- Tesha M. Christensen) and 2014 had the wettest Jan. 1 dersized system at Sibley Field or to June 30 ever on record. June water levels. working more stormwater storage 2014 was the wettest month ever Partners will explore whether at the Hiawatha Golf Course. trict consistent with an approved vation at the end of November. on record, and 2016 was the additional wells are needed to de- “It’s all about working with operating plan. Rainfall prompted the re- wettest year ever on record. Aug. termine if changes to existing in- partners and taking advantage of The outlet elevation of opening of the Lake Nokomis 2016 to July 2017 was the wettest frastructure might alleviate prob- opportunities,” said Kessler. the weir has always been set at weir on Sept. 25, when the lake 12-month period ever on record. lems and to estimate associated 815.10’, and cannot be changed. level measured 815.98’ and water With that, groundwater re- costs. Then they will develop a Yes, the water is higher When Lake Nokomis’ water level once again flowed out of the lake. charge rates have increased 3-4 holistic plan that includes addi- drops below 815.10’, it is due to inches per year in the past four tional funding, if necessary, and A cluster of properties southwest work to keep residents and elected of Lake Nokomis is dealing with factors other than the operation Is there a bedrock dam? years when compared to the last of the weir. 25 years. Average recharge in officials informed of progress. basement flooding while anoth- One theory being evaluated by The Nokomis Area Ground- er group near Solomon Park is Following a wet start to the the team is the idea of a bedrock 1988-2011 was 10.1 to 12.0 inch- year, August 2018 was very dry. es per year compared to the aver- water and Surface Water Evalua- faced with flooded backyards. dam that might be causing a tion team began meeting in Jan- These homes have base- Subsequently, the water level on backup of groundwater. age recharge in 2012-2016 at 14.1 Lake Nokomis dropped below to 16.0 inches per year. uary 2018. ments that are located 10-30 There is a rise in bedrock Participating agencies in- feet above the Lake Nokomis the weir’s outlet elevation some- east of Lakes Hiawatha and Wetter years may be the new time around Aug. 11, meaning normal. Right now, the problem clude the Minnesota Department water level, which suggests that Nokomis, but before Minnehaha of Natural Resources, the city groundwater levels are likely water could no longer flow from Falls, that could be acting like may be more visible around Lake Lake Nokomis to Minnehaha Nokomis because of the shallow of Minneapolis, the Minneap- the issue, rather than the Lake a dam to the groundwater and olis Park and Recreation Board, Nokomis water level, according Creek. It remained below the causing it to rise higher than it water table. Team members are outlet through mid-September. asking whether there are other the Minnehaha Creek Watershed to team members. would otherwise. District, and Hennepin County. A weir that controls water Before 2018, the last time the Where the water table is parts of south Minneapolis where water level on Lake Nokomis similar issues are occurring. Other agencies are coordinating entering Minnehaha Creek has only a few feet below the ground with the team include the Min- existed at the outlet of Lake dropped below the outlet eleva- surface, small (but long-term) In 2014, the Minnehaha tion was on Nov. 28, 2017. Creek Watershed District began nesota Department of Transpor- Nokomis since 1931. The weir changes in the water-table eleva- tation, the Metropolitan Airports is a dam-like structure that pre- In 2018, due to dry weath- tion can have dramatic effects, ac- partnering with the Nation- er, water flowed out of the lake al Weather Service to anticipate Commission, the city of Richfield, vents polluted stormwater and cording to Barr Engineering. and the U.S. Geological Survey. zebra mussels from entering via the weir for only 53 days. In rain events in order to more comparison, from mid-March to proactively manage the Gray’s To view technical data, tech- Lake Nokomis from Minnehaha Record precipitation nical team meeting notes, and Creek. The Minneapolis Park and the end of December 2017, the Bay Dam at the headwaters of weir was open for 121 days and Coupled with the possibility of Minnehaha Creek, pointed out presentations, visit www.ci.min- Recreation Board operates the a bedrock dam are a few years neapolis.mn.us/publicworks/ weir in coordination with the water flowed out of the lake until MCWD employee Tiffany Schau- it dropped below the outlet ele- of record-breaking precipitation fler. In 2016, the wettest year on stormwater/nokomisgroundwater. Minnehaha Creek Watershed Dis- in the Twin Cities. Historically, www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • December 2018 Page 13 Swing out Old Year 2018 at Hook and Ladder Theater & Lounge Hook and Ladder Theater & Lounge is filling the month of December with exciting shows. Here is a selection of entertain- ment venues that have not yet sold out at press time. (These are in addition to the free concerts in Dec. that you can read about under “Music Wednesdays sched- uled in Dec.” in the Briefs on page 11.) Unless noted otherwise, all performances are 21+. On Fri., Nov. 30, the Nick Moss Band featuring Dennis Gru- enling plus Cedric Burnside will perform. Doors open at 7:30pm and tickets are $18 in advance and $22 the day of the show. Summit Brewing & Nobool present The Belfast Cowboys on Sat., Dec. 1, at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10 in advance and $13 the day of the show. On Sun., Dec. 2, 6pm, The Funk & Lardum Aeternum will Hamel on Trial will take the stage for a free performance at 7:30pm on Frogleg will be performing on New Year's Eve, Dec. 31 at Hook and Ladder present Bobby & Bacon’s Holi- Tues., Dec. 4 at Hook and Ladder. (Photo from Internet capture) Theater & Lounge. (Photo from Internet capture) day Jamboree. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 the day of the show (or $12 at the door with Tickets are $12 in advance and Rodriguez will take the day Sun., Koskinen, Dustin Arbuckle & A Holiday Blues Show fea- food shelf donation). $15 the day of the show. The Dec. 7 with a matinee at 3:30pm The Haymakers, Molly Maher, turing Cornbread Harris & Hamell On Trial will take late show at 9:30 will feature (the evening performance is sold and Dusty Heart. Tickets are $12 Friends will perform Thur., Dec. the stage at 7:30pm on Tues., Hoodphellas plus out). Tickets are $20 in advance in advance and $15 the day of 20, 7:30pm. Tickets are reserved Dec. 4. This is a free show. Bigfoot Country for $9 in and $25 the day of the show if the show. seating at $12 each. On Thur., Dec. 6 both Lynn advance and $12 the day of any tickets remain. The Garagey Lil‘ Holiday Then settle in for Frogleg O’Brien (“Rising” Album Re- the show. Indeed Brewing & Jazz 88 Festival 2, The Castaways plus New Years Eve plus The Peo- lease) plus Annie Mack will take Paul Cebar Tomorrow will present Jazz Indeed: Dave • The Sex Rays • Black Widows ple Brothers Band on Mon., the stage at 7:30pm. This per- Sound plus Jon Rodine & Karr & Friends on Tues., Dec. 11. • Trash Street • Dose & Dinks • Dec. 31 for a New Years Eve formance is reserved seating for Friends will perform Sat., Dec. Doors and beer samples open Fret Rattles • Burlesque Danc- blowout. Doors open at 8pm $20, and presented by Sociable 8, at 8pm. Tickets are $15 in at 6pm with music starting at 7. ers • Dr. Bob’s Puppet Show and music begins at 8:30pm. Cider Werks. advance and $20 the day of This is a free show. will capture the evening Fri., Tickets are $22 in advance and The Church of Cash Holi- the show. On Thur., Dec. 13, 7:30pm, Dec. 14, 7:30pm. Tickets are $25 the day of the show and day Show will happen on Fri., The All I Want For Christmas settle in for the Radio Heartland $12 in advance and $15 the ticket includes champagne Dec. 7 (early show), at 7pm. Is Whiskey Tour featuring Dan 10th Anniversary Party with Erik day of the show. toast plus snacks at midnight. Classifieds Want ads must be received by the Messenger by December 10 for the December 26 issue. Call 651-645-7045 for more information. Messenger Your classified ad will also be automatically placed on the Messenger’s website at www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Messenger Want Ads are $1 per Lynn - 651-489-9053 OR lynns@ word with a $10 minimum. Send PAINTING bistream.net WINDOW CLEANING your remittance along with your Bill’s Painting. 38 years experi- Larry’s Window Washing - You ad to Messenger Classifieds, PO Box ence. Painting, wallpaper, staining SERVICES will see the difference. Inside and NEXT DEADLINE: 168, Osseo, MN 55369. Want ads and texturing. Fully insured. Free Concrete work: Steps, sidewalks, out. 651-635-9228. 12-18 December 10 must be mailed to the Messenger estimates. Attention to details. patios, driveways. Licensed, bond- before Dec. 10 for the Dec. 26 Call Bill 612-790-1266. 12-18 ed, insured. Call Tom Seemon, NEXT PUBLICATION: issue. Ad copy can be e-mailed Painter Jim since 1982. Small 612-721-2530. 12-18 WOODWORKING to denis∂@deruyternelson.com. painting jobs, wallpaper removal. Old house parts replicated + new December 26 Call 651-917-4183 for more infor- 612-202-5514. 12-18 STORAGE design: Balusters, spindles, col- mation. Your classified ad will MPLS Storage located in the umns, column bases, newel posts, (late delivery start also be automatically placed on PET SERVICES Longfellow neighborhood has porch posts, finials, table legs and due to holiday the Messenger’s website at www. John’s Dog Walking - Daily dog units for rent at low rates. Locally all other turned items. Can do one scheduling conflict) LongfellowNokomisMessenger walks, boarding and in home owned and family operated. 1/2 or 1000. Other woodworking too. .com pet visits. 15 years experience, block from Lake and Hiawatha. The Turning Point Woodworks Insured and Bonded. 612-825- 612-333-7525. B-18 Inc. Ph: 612-940-7591. Email: trg- HANDYMAN 9019. www.facebook.com/ [email protected] 2-19 Dr. House does it all: From a johnpetservice. 12-18 TILING leaky faucet to a new addition. I River Birch Bark Dog Services. Tiling by James, quality work, can save you money on electrical Training, Behavior, Consulting. reasonable rates, free estimates STUMP and plumbing. Call John at 651- Riverbirchbark.com 651-605- and references. Contact James 231-5652. B-18 5804. 3-19 at [email protected] GRINDING or [email protected]. SEEKING APARTMENT Telephone 612-799-8265. B-18 612-724-6045 Support local businesses! Single working woman looking for one or one-plus bedroom apartment. Flexible move date, including January or February!

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Page 14 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Keeping the Mississippi River Gorge healthy takes many hands River Gorge Stewards wrap up another successful season of 24 volunteer and educational events in 2018

By ELLIE ROGERS says Flett. In our local river bluff woods, He also pointed out that the trails and prairies, it’s easy to lose Longfellow Community Coun- yourself listening to birds or en- cil was one of the founders of joying blooming wildflowers. It’s the program, and remains a par- also easy to forget that this natural ticularly important partner and area would not be what it is today funder in 2018. without hands-on help from hun- Additional funders and dreds of River Gorge Stewards partners for FMR’s youth pro- volunteers and strong community grams, volunteer events and partnerships. habitat restoration activities in Tim Turner lives just a short the Minneapolis River Gorge walk to the Mississippi River Gorge. during 2018 included: Min- On a hike last fall, he ventured into neapolis Park and Recreation the beautiful oak savanna just off Board, Longfellow Community the trail at E. 36th St. and W. River Council, Xcel Energy, National Pkwy. where he ran into a small Fish and Wildlife Foundation group pulling up seedlings. and the US Forest Service, Min- Naturalist and volunteer-lead nesota Natural Resources and Kate Clayton of Friends of the Mis- Environmental Trust Fund, sissippi River (FMR) explained that Andeavor Foundation, RBC they were removing volunteer trees Wealth Management, Seagate, to make way for bur oaks as part HB Fuller Company, 3M Foun- of the long-term restoration of this dation, Hardenburgh Founda- special place. She also noted that Undaunted by the rain, Gorge Stewards circle up as Alex Roth, FMR ecologist, lays out the plan for planting natives tion, Langwater Foundation and before volunteers and community at the oak savanna this fall. (Photo submitted) Great Lakes Brewing Company. groups decided to form the River Gorge Stewards to take care of it, 58 volunteers of all ages picking up riverfront as well. Combining ed- pulling invasives and prepping a this rare savanna—home to over a litter and trash, despite the event ucation and action, eight groups planting site or checking on newly hundred bird species and a favor- being postponed due to the late learned about the river gorge and planted shrubs and natives, mak- ite respite for many locals—was an snow and late spring. how invasive plants affect the river ing sure they have enough water impenetrable thicket of spiky buck- Next came a series of public before heading out for a day of between rains. thorn bushes. volunteer outings focused on the stewardship service. Turner says highlights of Turner decided to join the ef- continued restoration of the oak sa- As for Turner, after participat- his first year with the team in- fort. “As a frequent hiker,” he says, vanna as well as the riverfront sand ing at several public events, he be- clude “finally learning the “I thought it would be a perfect way flats near Lake St. Together, indi- came the newest member of the names of plants that I have to ‘pay for’ the privilege.” viduals, families and small groups River Gorge Leadership Team, a passed many times and working Since then, he’s had plenty of pulled invasive species like garlic group of 15 dedicated volunteers, on projects with folks who care company. In 2018, FMR held 24 mustard and buckthorn and then mostly from surrounding commu- about the environment.” volunteer and educational events in returned to plant native shrubs and nities. Adam Flett, Stewardship and the Minneapolis River Gorge with wildflowers in their place. Team members are trained Education Program Director at over 400 attendees. Local groups like Anderson in species identification, tool use FMR, says they can’t thank their The annual oak savanna Earth United’s 5th graders and girl scout and more to support and contin- volunteers, partners, and funders Day cleanup was the biggest, with troops help maintain our local ue the river gorge restoration work enough. “This is a favorite spot for beyond the scheduled volunteer many people, and we’re lucky we’ve events. They put in extra hours got so many dedicated supporters,” 㘀㔀㘀㄀㄀⸀㈀㘀⸀㤀㜀㠀㈀㤀⸀㔀⸀㜀㘀㘀㄀ 㠀㠀 ∠ 眀眀眀眀眀⸀⸀戀戀甀甀挀挀欀欀ⴀ戀ⴀ戀爀漀爀漀猀⸀猀挀⸀漀挀洀漀洀 圀攀 搀攀猀椀最渀 ☀ 戀甀椀氀搀 椀渀 礀漀甀爀 渀攀椀最栀戀漀爀栀漀漀搀 䬀椀琀挀栀攀渀猀Ⰰ 䈀愀琀栀猀Ⰰ 䄀搀搀椀琀椀漀渀猀 刀攀猀琀漀爀愀琀椀漀渀猀 䴀一 氀椀挀攀渀猀攀 ⌀㐀㔀㤀㌀

A volunteer pulls garlic mustard be- fore it can take over the woodland near the sand flats. Invasive plants like garlic mustard can overrun or push out native plants that birds, At the River Gorge Stewards Earth Day cleanup, a local Girl Scouts troop butterflies and other pollinators rely taught volunteers and passersby on W. River Pkwy. about invasive species in on for habitat in our local Mississip- our local River Gorge park. (Photo submitted) pi River flyway. (Photo submitted)

www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • December 2018 Page 15 Who doesn’t want a Brighter Baby? Longfellow resident, educator and businesswoman, publishes a book on using music to help in a baby’s development

By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN book.com. With its November rhymes, and moving to music. Longfellow resident Emily publication date, it’s right on Teachers may also include Ireland has just published time for the holidays. For par- infant massage and sign lan- “Brighter Baby: Build Your Ba- ents or caregivers who don’t guage. “So many daily activities by’s Brain Power and Strength- think they have what it takes can be enhanced with music, en Your Bond.” The book in- to introduce music to their lit- and with better eye contact,” troduces readers to 60+ musi- tle one, Ireland said, “The most Ireland said. “The activities we cal activities that a parent or important voice to your baby is teach will improve the quali- caregiver to do with the baby your own.” As infants develop ty of the time you spend with in their life. “Brighter Baby” and grow, there are classes of your young child throughout is designed to help adults re- all kinds for them to enjoy at the day.” member and relive the music Ireland’s Brighter Minds Music For a complete schedule of of their childhood, while pro- studio. Registration is open for group music lessons for chil- viding tips on how to turn winter session, and group class- dren 0-5 years, and individual those songs and rhymes into es are offered at Minnehaha piano, guitar, voice, and ukule- activities they can use through- United Methodist Church (3701 le lessons for ages 6-100, visit out the day. E. 50th St.). The Babies Class, www.brightermindsmusic.com. Ireland has an MA in music for six weeks-18 months, teach- An experienced educator education, sixteen years ex- es activities that help develop and presenter, Ireland is avail- perience teaching early child- listening skills and provide a able to speak at schools, and hood music, and is the founder foundation for fun and interac- for ECFE and other parenting and director of Brighter Minds tion through music. groups about “Brighter Baby,” Music studio, 3701 E. 50th St. Activities in the Toddler and the value of early child- She explained, “The activities in Class (16 months - 3 ½ years) hood music education. She can this book are ones that we use include bouncing and rock- be reached at 612-743-0942, or in our early childhood music ing songs, wiggle and peek-a- by emailing Emily@brighter- classes. With each activity, I ex- boo games, singing, nursery mindsmusic.com. plain the benefits to baby’s de- velopment as seen through five different lenses: music develop- ment, cognitive development, social-emotional development, physical development, language and literacy development. My goal is to give parents and care- givers a great resource for bond- ing with their babies, while also giving them the tools to make music together.” Having a baby is one of the biggest game changers in a per- son’s life. Ireland and her hus- band, PR consultant Michael Emily Ireland, author of “Brighter Baby: Build Your Baby’s Brain Power and Walsh, are the parents of two el- Strengthen your Bond.” In addition to Ireland’s early childhood music ex- ementary school-aged children. pertise, the book has benefited from her husband Michael’s publicity efforts, When their first child was born and their daughter Rose’s illustrations. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) six years ago, Ireland fell into se- rious post-partum depression. “It took me completely by surprise,” having infant massage time in com, and at local, independent she said. “My husband and I were the morning. In the afternoon, bookstores soon. Copies of delighted with our new daugh- they played games together the book can also be ordered ter, and I generally have a very with a scarf or a ball, accompa- through www.brighterbaby- sunny disposition. It was a diffi- nied by singing. Ireland began cult time for our family. I had my coming out of her depression music school up and running, but and realized that if she had I couldn’t manage the workload. benefited from having the In the zone of post-partum de- many early childhood music pression and sleep deprivation, I resources she had at hand— thought I’d better start practicing other parents and caregivers what I preached.” would too. Ireland and her daughter The book “Brighter Baby” developed a daily routine of will be available on amazon.

Page 16 December 2018 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com