Minnehaha Academy

Golfers push back Nokomis Playground is Belle's Tool Box, and rally to save imaginative fun creative play space, Hiawatha Golf Course for youngsters opening soon PAGE 3 PAGE 10 PAGE 16

September 2017 Vol. 35 No. 7 www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com 21,000 Circulation • By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN Minnehaha Academy President Minnehaha Academy is Donna Harris greeted each person working to rise together follow- Minnehaha Academy: #TogetherWeRise who walked from the Upper Cam- ing a devastating gas explosion at pus down to the Lower Campus the Upper School (3100 W. River during the Unity Walk on Aug. 15. Pkwy.) on Aug. 2 that killed two An explosion destroyed a section of the school and killed two, Over 1,000 people wore the school’s staff members and destroyed the color red and attended the Unity oldest section of the school facili- but school proves its community is strong and resilient Walk. (Photo by Tesha M. Chris- ty built in 1913. tensen) Nearly 1,000 people wearing the Minnehaha school color red needed,” stated Harris. attended a Unity Walk on Aug. 15. The walk started at the Upper Moving forward School and ended at the Lower School with a ceremonial raising Wenschlag was out of town of the flag back to full mast. in Chicago when he received “Two weeks ago we were the news of the explosion. He dealt a blow,” remarked hopped on the next flight and Minnehaha Academy Board was back at Minnehaha Acade- Chair David Anderson. “Together my by 2pm, but found there was we will rise.” little he could do except pray Executive Director of Insti- for those unaccounted for as the tutional Advancement Sara Ja- authorities were managing the cobson noted, “It’s important scene of the blast. for current students and alums Master Mechanical workers to come together to comfort each had been moving a gas main at other, but also to celebrate the the campus, and those inside community that we have. The were given just a few minutes no- Unity Walk enabled us to thank tice before the structure explod- the first responders, demonstrate ed. our commitment to each other in The explosion rocked and this tragedy, and most important- set ablaze the center of the upper ly, begin to look forward to what school at 10:23am, causing a par- God has for Minnehaha Academy tial collapse of two floors over a in the future.” sub-basement. After the fire was it, as well. we will rise in unity, with a re- school announced that classes- extinguished, an intensive op- #TogetherWeRise “We chose #TogetherWeRise newed sense of purpose, hope, for its high school students eration began to find the miss- as a hashtag for this experience and commitment to our mis- would be held at 1345 Mendota ing. By the end of the first day, The school has begun tagging because we are a caring com- sion.” Heights Rd. in Mendota Heights Minnehaha knew it had lost 17- its own social media posts with munity, and we know that to- While the start of the in the former Sanford-Brown year receptionist Ruth Berg, as the hashtag #TogetherWeRise gether we will become stronger, school year will be different, College building. The school well as alum and staff member and encouraging others to use we will grow, we will rise up to Upper Campus Principal Jason has signed a two-year lease at John Carlson. Nine were injured be a greater school and to show Wenschlag has been assuring the site which is eight miles and transported to the hospi- the community what we can do students, “We’re going to be south of the Minnehaha cam- tal with fractures, cuts and head together,” explained Jacobson. ok.” pus, and hopes to be back in wounds, including assistant boy’s Minnehaha Academy Pres- “It’s going to be a great a permanent location as soon soccer coach Bryan Duffey. ident Donna Harris observed, year. It’s going to bring us to- as possible. "The process for Since that first day, Principal “Together is the pivotal and gether,” said Wenschlag. “We’re assessing the structural sound- Wenschlag has been very busy, transformative word. I am con- going to rally around this. We’re ness of our Upper School and working long days and moving fident we will rise from the dev- going to be sure to carry on the conducting rebuilding analyses forward on short nights of sleep. astating blow we have sustained same traditions and experiences with a partially destroyed struc- “We have kids and teach- as a community because our our kids expect.” ture is complex, so it is prudent ers, but we’re basically starting shared experience of pain and On Wed., Aug. 23, the and beneficial for Minnehaha a school,” observed Wenschlag. loss has drawn us closer togeth- school announced that class- to have a longer time window er. So with God’s help, I believe es for its high school students at the Mendota Heights site if Continued on page 15

After two weeks with the flag at half-mast, it was brought back to full-mast during a special ceremony on Tues., Aug. 15 at the Lower The Unity Walk gave Minnehaha Academy the opportunity to come together Campus as the Minnehaha Acade- and thank first responders who arrived within minutes of the explosion that Members of the Minnehaha Academy pep band, old and new, played during my sought to move forward togeth- rocked the campus, destroyed the center section of the school and killed two the Unity Walk on Aug. 15, just two weeks after an explosion damaged the er from a devastating gas explosion. staff members on Aug. 2. Here President Donna Harris thanks members of Upper Campus and killed two staff members. (Photo by Tesha M. Chris- (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) the Minneapolis Police Department. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) tensen) Well-known Minnesota chef plans to open restaurant in The Capp Development near 46th and Hiawatha will also include grocery store, other retail, and 150 apartments

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN James Beard Award nominee chef Erick Harcey plans to open a new restaurant next year in The CAPP building, a mixed-use project near 46th and Hiawatha that will include a grocery store. The restaurant at 3939 46th St. E. will be part of a five-story mixed-use development proposed by Excelsior-based Oppi- dan Investment Company. Con- struction is anticipated to begin The new restaurant with outdoor seating will be in a 4,000-foot, one-story in 2018. building (on left) near the railroad tracks and future Min Hi Line trail. (Il- “I’m thrilled to have the op- lustrations courtesy of Oppidan) portunity to develop a restau- James Beard Award nominee chef Erick Harcey plans to open a new restaurant in the Longfellow neighbor- Harcey’s deep Swedish roots Johnson of Oppidan. rant next year in The CAPP building near Hiawatha and 46th, part of a hood,” Harcey said in a press re- are at the source of his cooking, A grocer has not yet been se- multi-use development that will include 150 apartments and a grocery store. lease. “My team and I are looking according to his website. “He has lected. (Illustrations courtesy of Oppidan) forward to bringing an approach- never quite recreated, in later life, “Now that we are approved, able space to the area and a desti- the joy of coming home from we’re going to the market to see at the upper floors of the corner nonresidential uses. Bicycle park- nation for all.” school in Cambridge, MN, and who can best meet/achieve the spe- of the building facing 46th St and ing facilities provided between smell, before he even opened the cific land-use requirements of Min- Snelling Ave, additional consider- the building and 46th St. will be Name, concept still unknown door, that his mother was bak- neapolis,” said Johnson. ation shall be given to ensure the oriented parallel to the building. The new 4,000-foot, one-sto- ing potato dill bread. And it was Challenge ahead for the proj- corner of the building is an attrac- Oppidan was directed to explore ry restaurant building with out- several long talks near the end of ect include funding for the public tive focal point with visual interest. relocating the bike parking to a door seating will be located on his Swedish grandfather’s life that improvements, including the new Also, to be consistent with the zon- location that is not between the the northwest slice of the prop- gave him the ultimate vision for city street, Min Hi Line trail proj- ing code, the exterior appearance of building and a street, as well as op- erty, between the extension of Upton 43. But Chef Harcey is just ect, and relocating the Xcel power the face brick and thin brick clad- tions for installing discontinuous Snelling Ave. and the railroad as influenced by Marco Pierre poles. ding on the insulated precast wall curbing to allow the on-site reten- tracks. The five-story building White’s White Heat, and the in- The city approved a variance panels will match, and the types of tion and infiltration of stormwater with the grocery store will be to satiable inventiveness of Ferran to increase the maximum allowed metal panel used will be limited to in landscaped areas. the east, replacing the current Adría.” gross floor area for commercial use two, one of which will be an accent The planning commission structure that houses Creative When he’s not in the kitch- from 20,000 square feet to 47,280 material. also gave a deadline for the proj- Kidstuff’s corporate offices. en or planning a new restaurant, square feet, subject to a few con- At least 32 bicycle parking ect: all site improvements shall Harcey might be found coaching ditions. Staff recommended that spaces must be provided for the be completed by July 17, 2019. Harcey has not yet picked a one of his four son’s baseball a principal entrance, accessible to name for his new restaurant, and teams or trying to get a fat wall- the public during the open hours other details, including concept eye to bite the end of his line. of operation, be prominently lo- and menu, are still in the works. cated at the corner of 46th St and The new restaurant in No grocery store named yet Snelling Ave., and at least one com- Longfellow near Minnehaha mercial tenant space in addition to Park comes at a time of flux for Both the restaurant building and BUY LOCAL the five-story structure with a gro- the grocery store face 46th St. Harcey, who has recently stopped The city also requires that ar- serving the “Perfect Burger” at his cery store, 150 apartments and pe- destrian-friendly town center were chitectural elements, such as win- Victory 44 restaurant in North dows, shall be incorporated on the Minneapolis and shuttered the reviewed by the city’s planning commission on July 17. north, east and west building eleva- Upton 43 and Dirty Bird take-out tions to prevent blank, uninterrupt- in Linden Hills. The Upton 43, “We received project approv- als from the Minneapolis planning ed walls exceeding 25 feet in width known for its modern spin on as required by section 530.120 of Nordic food, will be reopening commission about a month ago and are very excited, but still have the zoning code. On the west eleva- at a smaller location in the North tion of the elevator/stair tower and Loop. some big challenges,” said Drew

Page 2 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Golfers rally to save the Hiawatha Golf Course Following Park Board decision to close course, supporters come together to push back

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN “We don’t want a beautiful recreational asset turned into a stormwater pond,” Jerry Mullin told a group of about 100 Hi- awatha Golf Course supporters on Tues., Aug. 15. going to bring half a million peo- Mullin, an environmental ple here,” said Shroyer. “This is a consultant who used to work success, and we’re not going to for Baar Engineering, has lived give it up.” across the street from the golf Andrea Fahrenkrug’s hus- course for 20 years. He and other band grew up playing the course speakers at a rally in support of at Hiawatha. She understands Hiawatha Golf Course charged that some people don’t like to that the Minneapolis Parks and play golf and don’t use the course. Recreation Board process hasn’t “That’s fine,” she said. “You don’t been fair since the beginning, have to want a golf course. We and they want to have more of want a golf course.” She believes a say in what happens at the that diversity in the activities of- course. A group of about 100 Hiawatha Golf Course supporters gathered on Tues., “There are 6,800 acres of park fered within the park system is Following a flood in 2014, Aug. 15, in response to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board decision land in Minneapolis,” said Bobby important. the Minneapolis Park and Rec- on Aug. 9 to shut down the course. They encourage residents to browse their Warfield. “What are we going to Bobbie Warfield agreed. reation Board (MPRB) learned site, SaveHiawatha18.com for more information and to get involved in sav- get by having another restaurant in “There are 6,800 acres of park that the course is pumping far ing the course. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) Minneapolis? But this is the only land in Minneapolis,” he pointed more water off the property than golf course in south Minneapolis.” out. “What are we going to get by allowed by a Department of Nat- lieve if they flood this golf course how you can build a pavilion on a (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) having another restaurant in Min- ural Resources permit. The park all the houses down there are at swamp,” Kelly commented. neapolis? But this is the only golf board began holding meetings in risk for flooding,” said Kelly, who Mayoral candidate Neki- Levy-Pound said that she course in south Minneapolis.” 2015 to update residents on what was at home during the 1987 ma Levy-Pound told the crowd didn’t understand how the park Course supporters encour- was happening at the course and flood when the water came up to she believes this situation is an- board is moving ahead with clos- aged people to browse SaveHi- to begin envisioning what else Longfellow Ave. other example of the Park Board ing the course before it has a solid awatha18.com for more informa- the land could be used for if it Kelly also played golf at Hi- not listening to the people. “Un- plan for redevelopment or the tion on how to get involved in wasn’t a golf course. awatha as a teenager when she fortunately, they have too much funds to pay for it. saving the golf course. On Aug. 9, the park board was a member of the Roosevelt unchecked power,” Levy-Pound Levy-Pound questioned, approved reducing the pumping High School team. “I think it said. “The November elections “How can golf be a dying sport MPRB’S next steps from 242 million gallons to 94 should stay,” she stated. Kelly are coming up, and they’re very at Hiawatha Golf Course if this Earlier in August, the MPRB di- million gallons by a 6-3 vote. doesn’t support the park board important because we have the course is used by so many?” She rected staff to organize a pro- The course is expected to remain idea of putting in parking lots and chance to change park board lead- pointed to the youth that use the cess of amending the Nokomis open through the 2019 season. a pavilion. “I don’t understand ers.” course, as well as all the people Hiawatha Regional Park Master who showed up for the rally. Plan to accommodate changes to Supporters push for advocacy “I believe that because of the the Hiawatha Golf Course prop- Kathryn Kelly grew up near the power of your advocacy, it will re- erty following the decision to re- golf course, and her mom still remain open,” Levy-Pound said. duce pumping there. sides in the neighborhood. “I be- Several other candidates for MPRB will be forming a office within the city spoke to the Community Advisory Committee crowd, including Charlie Casser- (CAC) to determine if some form ly, at-large park board candidate; of traditional golf can remain on Bob Fine, who is running for the the property. District 6 Park Board seat in the The process to determine southwest section of the city; Bill the future usage of the course is Shroyer, District 5 Park Board can- estimated to take between nine didate; and Andrea Fahrenkrug, and 12 months, according to a District 5 Park Board candidate. press release. The process to pre- Shroyer is a 17-year Park pare plans and obtain permits Board employee in the forestry will take another 12 months or and maintenance department. more. During that time, MPRB “They’re going to dredge the Mis- will work with the DNR to con- Jerry Mullin, an environmental consultant who used to work for Baar Engi- sissippi, and they can’t dredge this neering, has lived across the street from the golf course for 20 years. He and tinue current pumping levels so lake?” he asked. Shroyer thinks that Hiawatha Golf Course will other speakers at a rally in support of Hiawatha Golf Course charged that the user numbers generated for the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board process hasn’t been fair since remain open as an 18-hole golf the site if it were redeveloped are course until at least the end of the beginning, and they want to have more of a say in what happens at the fake. “I know the food forest isn’t course. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) 2019. 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 Mayoral candidate Nekima Levy-Pound told the crowd she believes this situation is another example of the Park Nokomis Messenger electronically! express written permission of the publisher. Copyright ©2017. Board not listening to the people. “Unfortunately, they have too much unchecked power,” Levy-Pound said. “The Now it’s easier than ever to keep in touch with November elections are coming up, and they’re very important because we have the chance to change park board leaders.” (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • September 2017 Page 3 This year’s Monarch Festival will for the Board. Completed nom- occur on Sat., Sept. 9 from 10am ination forms are due on Sept. to 4pm. The Festival celebrates 13. the monarch butterfly’s amazing NENA (Nokomis East Neighborhood Association) The NENA Board of Direc- 2300 mile migration from Min- tors will review all applications nesota to Mexico with music, 4313 54th St. E. and appoint a new Board mem- food, dance, hands-on art, native ber at its Sept. 28 meeting. This plant sales, and plenty of op- is a replacement appointment portunities to get up-close with Monarch Festival - Festival de la Monarca 2017 serving from Sept. 2017 to Apr. monarch butterflies—learn about 2018. The appointed Board their habitats, and what you can member may run to be elected do to make a difference. NENA upcoming meetings and events: to the seat at the April Annual Festival participants can lis- 09/06/17: NENA Housing, Commercial and Streetscape Committee, NENA Office, 6:30pm Meeting and serve a full two- ten to music from Salsa Del Soul 09/08/17: NENA Board Meeting, NENA Office, 7pm year term. and other acts, try out the new 09/09/17: Minneapolis Monarch Festival, 49th St. and Woodlawn Blvd., 10am Visit www.nokomiseast.org Animation Station, make their 09/13/17: NENA Green Initiatives Committee, NENA Office, 6:30pm for more information and an ap- own art print, get up-close with plication. monarch caterpillars, tag and re- • Web: www.nokomiseast.org • Facebook: www.facebook.com/Nokomiseast lease a monarch butterfly, play • Twitter: twitter.com/NokomisEast • Email: [email protected] • Phone: (612) 724-5652 City Academy games and much more. The City Academy educational Visit the Minneapolis Mon- The Festival will be held ation Board. teers, Minnesota Conservation series, offered through the City arch Festival website at www. just east of the Lake Nokomis Corps, Master Water Stewards, of Minneapolis Neighborhood monarchfestival.org for the full Community Center in the area Monarch Mile installed and project partners Metro and Community Relations De- line-up of up Monarch Festival surrounded by E. Minnehaha The Monarch Mile, NENA’s new Blooms. This popular cost-share partment, is being offered again music, food, art, activities, and Pkwy., Woodlawn Blvd., and E. pollinator pathway connecting program will be expanded next this year to residents interested native plant sale information. Nokomis Pkwy. The festival is the Nokomis Naturescape and year. Interested residents who in knowing more about how the These activities are all free and cohosted by the Nokomis East Gateway Garden, was planted live on E. 50th St. in Nokomis city government works. open to the public. No registra- Neighborhood Association and on August 1 by local volun- East can contact Program and The five-week series includes tion is required. the Minneapolis Park and Recre- Communication Manager Lau- topics on general government, ren Hazenson to be added to public safety, public works, plan- the 2018 Monarch Mile garden ning and development, and fire list. operations. Participants will If this project or similar en- learn the latest in firefighting vironmental programs interest techniques, the latest technology you, and you would like to be from 311, police procedures how part of leading similar efforts, future developments are planned come to the next Green Initia- and constructed, how taxes are tives Committee meeting on levied and budgets approved and Wed., Sept. 13, 6:30-8pm at the about City Boards and Commis- NENA Office, 4313 E. 54th St. sions. The City Academy is free to the public. Accepting applicants for The City Academy will be Morris Park NENA Board Seat held every Wednesday from Sept. 20 until Oct. 18. NENA is seeking applicants for Registration is open until the vacant Board seat from the Sept. 7. To register, please visit Morris Park neighborhood. the Minneapolis City Academy The Morris Park neighborhood webpage. is bordered by 54th St. on the north, Highway 55 on the east, Sign up for NENA News 34th Ave. on the west, and the southern boundary of the City Get your neighborhood news de- of Minneapolis. livered to your inbox every other If you live (homeowner Wednesday. Sign up today at and renters) in the Morris Park www.nokomiseast.org. Once you neighborhood, you can nomi- sign up, you’ll receive updates on nate yourself (most common); news and happenings for your or any NENA member can nom- neighborhood. The 2017 Monarch Festival will be held on Sat. Sept. 9, 10am-4pm, just east of the Lake Nokomis Community inate a Morris Park neighbor- Center in the area surrounded by E. Minnehaha Pkwy., Woodlawn Blvd., and E. Nokomis Pkwy. (File photo) hood resident as an applicant

Transition Longfellow is an and neighbors and share a meal all-volunteer group of Longfel- together. This month’s movie is low/South Minneapolis neigh- “Real Value,” a documentary on bors who create opportunities Transition Longfellow how business can be used to cre- for neighbors to get to know one ate value beyond profit, with pro- another while also learning how fessor of psychology and behav- they can reduce their energy use By LESLIE MACKENZIE ioral economics Dan Ariely, ex- and waste, grow their own food, plaining the science behind our and prepare for extreme weather perception of value. The film of- ahead. Visit www.transitionlong- Are you prepared if a natural disaster strikes your home? fers inspiration for business own- fellow.org to learn more. ers, entrepreneurs, and customers Preparedness Book Group that examines the real-life im- teaches residents how to be pre- Movie Night is scheduled for who want to better understand meets Wed., Sept. 6, 6:30pm, pacts of a changing climate here pared for emergencies, natural Fri., Sept. 15, 6:30pm potluck, what happens when a business at Moon Palace Books, 3260 in the Twin Cities. The topic is disasters and weather extremes, 7:15pm movie, at Minnehaha puts people, planet, and profit on Minnehaha Ave., and Wed., “Protecting Yourself from In- staying safe until emergency ser- Communion Lutheran, 4101 equal footing. Sept 20, 6:30pm, at Lake Cof- sect and Water-borne Diseases.” vices can arrive. 37th Ave. S. Meet new friends fee House, 3223 E. Lake St. The Speakers Jenna Bjork, Trisha group is reading “Making Home: Robinson, and Lisa Strong, all Adapting Our Homes and Lives from the Minnesota Health De- to Settle in Place” by Sharon partment, will provide informa- Astyk, chapters 11 and 12 on pre- tion about new tick (including paring for greater resilience in Borrelia miyamotoi, discovered the face of a changing climate. first in Minnesota) and mosqui- Astyk suggests that the future will to-borne (West Nile Virus, James- look less like the Mad Max fanta- town Canyon virus and Powassan sies of film and more like friends virus), and water-related illnesses and family members losing their (like Naegleria fowleri). homes and coming to live with A wrap-up session is planned us (think Katrina). How do we for Sat., Oct. 14, in which infor- prepare and welcome them? No mation and ideas gathered at all need to read the chapter in ad- of the informational workshops vance; the group reads out loud. will be reviewed by communi- When Climate Change ty members to begin creating a Comes Home Speaker Series community preparedness plan. continues on Thurs., Sept. 21, See the Transition Longfel- 6:30-8:30pm, at Longfellow low website (www.transition- Park Building, 3435 36th Ave. longfellow.org) as information S. This is the last informational becomes available on Ready workshop in the speaker series Camp, a 4.5-hour training that

Page 4 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com ‘Tales of Block E’ is a subject dear to local author’s heart By JAN WILLMS Longfellow resident and author Wil- Characters come to life in liam E. Burleson holds his recent- Longfellow author William E. ly published book “Tales of Block Burleson’s recently published E: Stories from 1979 on the Most book “Tales of Block E: Stories Notorious Block in Minneapolis.” from 1979 on the Most Notori- (Photo by Jan Willms) ous Block in Minneapolis.” Burleson has put three short stories into the book, and what results is a rich and insightful the colleges. Writing is fingers on description of the area in Min- the keyboard, a physical activity, neapolis that Burleson said was and everything else is secondary.” called “The Hennepin Stretch.” Burleson said that if anyone Block E was between 7th and 6th at a writing conference tells how streets, and Hennepin and First to write a book, you should not avenues. He describes various listen to them. “There is no one businesses that were prominent way,” he claimed. “There are peo- in that neighborhood, such as ple called pantsers, who write Moby Dick’s, Shinders and the by the seat of their pants. They Venice Café. And the characters sit down and just start writing, who inhabit that section of Min- and they write to the end. Then neapolis, although fictional, are there are plotters, who lay it all drawn from people who were fa- out. One of my favorite authors, miliar to Burleson as he grew up Richard Russo, spends six to ten around Block E. months writing an outline, ends Burleson, who wrote quite up with the outline being 80 a bit while studying architecture pages long. Then he fleshes it out at the University of Minnesota, and has his story.” left writing behind as he pursued “When I write short stories, a career. But 15 years ago, he re- I often pants it out. I have a situ- turned to writing and will soon ation in mind, but the ending is publish his 18th short story. He the hard part.” has written a book about the things and do things that surprise Burleson works for the state unique struggles of the bi-sexu- you and become their own be- in communications and does his al community, and he has two Book event scheduled for Sept. 15 ings. You have to honor it. They personal writing on weekends novel manuscripts, one called A book event for William E. Burleson, author of “Tales of Block E: are living, breathing people; if and evenings at favorite coffee “Avenue,” also about Block E, Stories from 1979 on the Most Notorious Block in Minneapolis” they are not, something is wrong, shops. He said he loves his day and “Ahnwee Days,” about a and Peter Koeleman, author of “Eagles of Longfellow,” will be and they are flat. They have com- job, which also involves writing. small town that has seen better held Sept. 15 from 4-7pm at Dunn Brothers Coffee, 4648 E. Lake plex motives and desires; they “They have to pay me, but if I days and a mayor who tries to St., and Corazon Gifts, 4646 E. Lake. succeed sometimes, and some- could write all day long, I would save it. Both local authors will be on hand to answer questions and times not—just like us. That’s the be doing it. I would spend my He has written numerous fic- talk about their books. Coffee will be served at Dunn Brothers goal,” he continued, “to get the day drinking coffee and sitting at tion and non-fiction pieces for along with some snacks, and wine will be available at Corazon. reader to care about the charac- the Fire Roast, Riverview Café or literary journals and magazines. Reading and questions will start at 5:30pm. Books will be avail- ters and all the sub-stories, little Lake Coffee House. I have to be But his youth spent on Block able for purchase, and there will be an opportunity to interact ambitions and quirks they have. out, and have to have chaos and E has been a special subject with the authors. All have to be present, or they are music.” for him. “I liked writing about not rounded human beings.” He said Minneapolis is an Block E; I had so much intersec- According to Burleson, non- incredible place for writers, with tion with it when I was young- college,” he recalled. rattle my fingers on a keyboard, fiction is easier to sell. “There is a the Loft offering workshops and er,” Burleson said. He grew up “I belonged on Block E at and I still have to be able to form glut of fiction out there, and the bringing in well-known authors on 24th and 3rd Ave., where his that time. I don’t want to roman- a sentence. But with nonfiction, world is full of writers. It’s a dif- and different groups of writers family served as caretakers of a ticize it because that is easy to the interest is in the topic. For fic- ficult marketplace,” he said. With forming a community. He is cur- small museum that still exists do. It wasn’t a good place, but it tion, I have nothing more than that in mind, he said that today rently working with other writers by the Minneapolis Art Institute. had a lot of flavor.” the words. It has to live or die on can be a most difficult time and on an anthology of Lake St. “We lived on the grounds, and “It is a community. That’s the words.” also a most wonderful time to be “I have two writing groups I played in the parking lot,” he what I saw when I lived there,” “I had no idea. I love it, but a writer. now, and we read each other’s noted. Then his family moved to he said. it is so much more challenging. “It is so much easier to write work and see the blind spots and a farm for five years until they re- After writing several success- Every sentence needs to be pol- with computers and structural- talk. Writing can be a community turned to Minneapolis, on 18th ful nonfiction pieces, Burleson ished to the finest buff I can get ly easier to do. But there is a lot project.” and LaSalle. said he thought fiction would it. Every twist of a phrase is im- more out there, which makes it a Reflecting back on Tales of “I was an extremely poor be easy. “I was having so much portant.” lot harder to get published. And Block E, Burleson said that what kid,” Burleson said. “I had a fun writing nonfiction, I thought Burleson said that being big publishers don’t work with he hopes readers get from his single mother who worked in a surely everyone would want to a writer makes one a god of his new writers much anymore.” book is that this was a desperate nursing home kitchen.” When read my fiction,” he explained. own universe. However, the char- He said being a writer comes block, a poor block, and a lot Burleson got a job working at “No, they didn’t. So it took me a acters in a story have free will. through blood, sweat, and tears. of unattractive things happened the World Theater for minimum while to get going on that.” “You may create a character, but “You just keep trying,” he stated. there. “But,” he said, “people wage, he was proud to have it. “Fiction and nonfiction are you are surprised at the direc- “You try your luck with contests, were trying to get ahead. They “Most of the people I knew never completely different,” he con- tion that character takes you in. online magazines, and online fic- were trying to get a better life for had jobs, and nobody went to tinued. “For both, I still need to It happens all the time. They say tion websites through some of themselves.” Off-Leash Area to open new performance space in east Nokomis The SAGE and Ivey Award- win- Having experienced their The Off-Leash Art Box will In its 18 years, OLA has cre- Showcase, an annual mini-fes- ning Off-Leash Area is launch- own challenges in finding afford- fill a gap in the Minneapolis ated 25 original evening-length tival of independent mid-career ing an exciting new adventure as able spaces, Jennifer Ilse and Paul community as an affordable 75- performance works, many short- Minnesota-based performance they announced the opening of Herwig, Off-Leash Area Artistic seat flexible performance venue form works, taught classes in In- makers. a brand new performance venue Directors, decided to take matters with professional technical verted Dance, workshops in Per- Off-Leash Area believes this in South Minneapolis: The Off- into their own hands and pur- support. It is an intimate space formance & Scenic Design, been new space will be a peak achieve- Leash Art Box. chased a property. where local audiences can see commissioned by the Walker Art ment after 18 years of commit- Construction is underway at Small performance venues the most vital work by the area’s Center, the O'Shaughnessy, and ment and contributions. The Art 4200 54th St. E., and plans for in Minneapolis have rapidly dis- most exciting contemporary and collaborated with an ever grow- Box also represents a major op- the Art Box grand opening are set appeared due to gentrification. independent performance making community of the Twin Cit- portunity for raising the profile for the weekend of Oct. 28-29. In the past year alone four small ers, as well as a sorely needed ies’ most exciting performance of the organization, and for the The Art Box will be Off- venues closed as the owners sold affordable space for rehearsals, makers. Artistic Directors to take on a sig- Leash Area’s home base for its these properties for commercial workshops, and classes. OLA has four performance nificant new leadership role in productions, classes, workshops, development. This inspired the Off-Leash Area was found- programs: presenting its Main- the community by giving back, and other programming, and will decision to purchase the Art Box ed in Minneapolis in 1999 and stage Productions in Minneapolis mentoring, and paying it for- serve the broader community by rather than lease a building. creates original interdisciplinary venues, Micro-stage Productions ward. providing an affordable and pro- “By owning our own build- performance work. Named after in their own home/studio Our For more information or fessionally equipped small venue ing we own our destiny, and we the public parks where dogs run Garage, the Neighborhood Ga- to support and participate in for the many independent dance wish to share the power of that untethered, OLA’s creative ap- rage Tour which brings perfor- Off-Leash Art Box rehab activi- and theater makers in the Twin self-sufficiency with our commu- proach is likewise playful, crosses mance work directly into neigh- ties, visit their website at www. Cities. nity,” stated the Artistic Directors. boundaries, and takes risks. borhoods, and The Right Here offleasharea.org. www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • September 2017 Page 5 Solar panels supplying 10.9% of energy used at Nokomis Beach Installation funded by Xcel Energy, part of public/private partnership to add solar projects to five Minneapolis parks

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN The new solar power installation at Nokomis Beach is up and running, and will soon supply an estimated 10.9% of total annual energy consumed at the beach. Plus, it created more shade. An 18-panel array was mounted atop a large shade structure near Sandcastle restaurant. Sandcastle re- mained open during the construction, which began this spring and ended in August. The panels were connected to Xcel’s equipment and began generating electricity for Lake Nokomis Park on Aug. 17. First solar installation paid for by Xcel grant The 7.4kW solar installation is estimated to provide 9,578- 10,321 kWh per year. The Titan 410W Mono PV Modules with reflectors were manufactured by TenKsolar in Bloomington. Installation was done by Sundial Solar and Merit Electric under the direc- tion of Graybar Electric. The construction cost (not An 18-panel array was mounted atop a large shade structure near Sandcastle restaurant. The panels were connected to Xcel’s equipment and began gener- including design and other re- ating electricity for Lake Nokomis Park on Aug. 17. The construction cost—not including design and other related design and administration costs— lated design and administra- was approximately $180,000. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) tion costs) was approximately $180,000. renewable energy use.” small roof-mounted solar sys- print. Our carbon footprint power makes no noise, creates “Renewable energy infra- tem in 2018, but it will not be is the total amount of green- no emissions, has no moving “The project is the result structure helps to reduce the funded by Xcel RDF grant due house-gas emissions from fos- parts, uses no water or other parks’ carbon footprint, and to timing and funding con- sil fuel,” pointed out Johnson. fuels and requires very little of a great partnership.” with the significant costs asso- straints. “When we reduce our car- maintenance. ciated with implementation, I Annually, the combined bon footprint, it reduces the Using solar energy not – Benjamin Johnson of am thankful that we received projects produce roughly amount of natural resources we only saves on electrical costs in the Minneapolis Park and such a generous grant from 280,000 kilowatt hours, off- consume.” the short term but may also be Xcel Energy to build out some set 400,000 pounds of carbon, Solar power reduces the a good long-term investment. Recreation Board (MPRB) sites within the system,” stated and reduce MPRB electricity need to expand the electrical Energy prices are rising while District 5 Parks Commissioner bills by roughly $28,000. grid, which saves everyone the cost of a solar installation Steffanie Musich. The projects also include costs on utility bills, as well as is dropping. “The project is the result interpretive and educational natural resources needed for This project supports local of a great partnership,” said Nokomis site one of five programming opportunities expanding the electrical grid solar production. Benjamin Johnson of the Min- about sustainable solar energy for increased demand. All of the solar installa- neapolis Park and Recreation Solar panels have also been installed at Webber Natural for both children and adults in Solar energy is a ‘clean’ tions used solar modules that Board (MPRB). “It was primar- Minneapolis parks. energy source in comparison were reviewed by the Depart- ily funded by Xcel Energy’s Re- Swimming Pool (on pump house roof); East Phillips A mounted educational to other types of energy gen- ment of Commerce and desig- newable Development Fund, sign will be installed onsite eration. Photovoltaic solar nated as Made In Minnesota. but the Minneapolis Park and Community and Cultural Cen- ter (roof); and Rev. Dr. Martin at Lake Nokomis this fall. The Recreation Board has also pro- sign will provide information vided $150,000 in funding as a Luther King, Jr. Park (roof of the multipurpose room). about solar energy and specif- match to the RDF grant.” ics about the Nokomis solar MPRB applied for an Xcel Project locations were se- lected based on solar orienta- installation. Also, small signs Energy Renewable Develop- containing a QR code that can ment Fund grant in 2013, and tion (to maximize sunlight ex- posure), public visibility and be scanned to view a video learned in 2014 that it was about the projects will be in- among 20 out of 67 applicants distribution across the Minne- apolis park system, according stalled on nearby picnic tables. to receive funding. “Providing demonstration The $969,741 grant helped to Johnson. Roof capacity and roof longevity were major fac- projects using solar energy fund five projects. The largest, makes solar production visible at Parade Ice Garden, has 374 tors in determining the location for the major installation to the community. This sup- solar panels in 21 sections, ports a culture around promot- which generates roughly 15% at Parade Ice Garden. The original plan to in- ing renewable energy and sus- of the building’s annual elec- tainability,” remarked Johnson. trical consumption. Each solar stall solar panels at the Lake Calhoun Refectory (Tin Fish) panel is paired with a reflector Solar benefits panel to maximize energy den- was scraped because the build- sity. ing needed extensive structur- These solar projects not only “It’s great to partner with al modifications to support a benefit park users but city resi- the Minneapolis Park Board solar system. The new North- dents in general. on their energy efficiency work east Athletic Field Recreation “Each solar installation and their first-ever solar instal- Center is expected to receive a reduces our carbon foot- lation at Parade Ice Garden,” said Lee Gabler, Xcel Energy Senior Director of Customer Strategy and Solutions. “This solar array is another example of public and private partners, working together, to promote

Page 6 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Share the River Gorge paddle and social draws a nice crowd By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN The Longfellow Communi- ty Council (LCC) served up their annual Share the River Gorge Canoe Paddle and Ice Cream So- cial on July 26 at W. River Pkwy. and 35th St. This year’s event was a gift to the neighborhood, as it is every year. Free Dilly Bars were provided by the East Lake Dairy Queen. Gorge Stewards from the Friends of the Mississippi River led hikers on interpretive tours of the nearby Prairie Oak Savan- na. This area is under continual restoration by FMR volunteers to keep invasive species at bay. Ned Phillips of the LCC River Gorge Committee said, “We’re glad so many people came out tonight.” The River Gorge Committee, open to anyone interested in protecting and advancing the cause of the River Gorge, always welcomes new members. The committee meets on the third Wednesday of each month from 6-7:30pm at Lake Hiawatha Recreation Center, Wilderness Inquiry brought four of their historical Voyageur canoes to the Share the River Gorge event. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) 2701 E. 44th St. A sign that stretched out 34th St. steps, Wilderness In- ing natural features of the River to talk about invasive carp, For more information on along the parkway said, “ Want quiry offered free rides all night Gorge, which are part of what mussels, and river water quality. the Mississippi River National to find your summer bliss? Take a in their 24-foot-long, 10-person makes the Mississippi Nation- The annual Share the Gorge Park and Recreation Area, visit ride upon the Miss.” Voyageur canoes. Canoeists of al River and Recreation Area so Canoe Paddle and Ice Cream the National Park Service rang- On the sand flats below the all ages could enjoy the amaz- special. Social was hosted by the River ers at the St. Anthony Falls Vis- National Park Service rang- Gorge Committee of the Long- itor Center. ers were down on the sand flats fellow Community Council.

Volunteer Ann Beane (right) explained to a Longfellow family that more than 40 species of mussels inhabit the Mis- sissippi River. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin)

www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • September 2017 Page 7 Ninth annual LoLa Art Crawl scheduled Sept. 16-17 The League of Longfellow Artists (LoLa) invites the public to In this year’s crawl, 103 artists will be showcasing their work visit with and buy directly from artists and makers in this South at 63 sites, including artists’ own homes, unique independent Minneapolis neighborhood by the river known for its classic bun- shops, cafés, and bistros. Directories with maps are available at galows and natural beauty, during the 9th annual LoLa Art Crawl LoLaArtCrawl.com/media, at businesses throughout the Longfel- on the weekend of Sept. 16–17, 10am to 5pm both days. low neighborhood in September, and from participating artists

Jean Bushey, Site 60–4524 35th Ave. S. Beadwork is my medium of choice. I learned to do fine bead Jinjer Markley, Site 13—3129 31st knotting while working at Hedstrom Ave. S. In 2016, Jinjer Markley de- Jewelers on 27th and Lake almost cided to weave the creative thread Presley Martin, Site 13—3129 31st Rebecca Wicklund, Site 24—3347 forty years ago. I still have beads I that has run through her life into an Ave. S. Presley Martin’s “The Foam 42nd Ave. S. I’m a jewelry artist, bought from dealers at that time. illustration career. She is starting out Project” takes a close look at foam and I’ve participated in the LOLA Art Crawl since its inception. It’s My love of the tiniest of beads and with a bang—the LOLA art crawl from the Mississippi River. Through Lisa Arnold, Site 47—Fireroast been so wonderful to have the pe- sewing skills drew me to bead weav- follows two solo shows, one at River- sculpture, ceramics, and photography Cafe, 3800 37th Ave. S. I’m Lisa rennial support of the Longfellow ing. Being part of LoLa and being view Cafe, and one at ArtPlayce in this common material is presented in Arnold, xola arts. I’m a mosaicist neighborhood—and a fun way to able to welcome neighbors into my St. Paul. The drawings and paint- new, unexpected ways. and teaching artist, specializing in get to know more people in the com- home where I can display my work ings from her recent Instagram proj- stained glass and glass beads. I’ve munity. I’ll be located at Flourish is a wonderful opportunity for me. ect: 100 Days of Colorful Flowers lived in Longfellow for 20 years. Pilates again this year with my sis- will be in her studio for the LOLA I’ve been a LOLA artist from the ter, Beth Wicklund, who creates let- art crawl. Besides drawing, Jinjer beginning. The best part of LOLA terpress cards. loves the magic of making things by hand and will have a selection of her is talking to new people, seeing old handmade felt chickens at the crawl. friends, and getting the chance to www.jinjermarkley.com make connections with both artists and art lovers.

Megan Moore, Site 8—3712 E. 29th St. Original oil and watercolor Karen Grimm, Site 51—3845 paintings, giclée prints, cards, calendars, books. Megan has been showing Mary Ila Duntemann, Site 17— 36th Ave. S. Karen’s ReKreations her work in the LoLa Art Crawl since 2010. You may have seen her work as 3231 36th Ave. S. Handmade glass specializes in creating beautiful and Julie Meyer, Site 20—3212 43rd public art along the Midtown Greenway on electrical boxes. practical treasures out of found and Ave. S. With a desire for quality beads! www.maryiladuntemann.com commonly discarded items. This functional items and a passion for year focusing on home decor, gifts, creating, Julie Meyer Handbags offer foraged preserves, and garden art! you an everyday bag showing off your individuality. Locally sourced cow- hide and leather bags made in Long- fellow and sold worldwide.

Page 8 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Ninth annual LoLa Art Crawl scheduled Sept. 16-17 during the crawl. pitched in to support LoLa with their sponsorships. The self-guided tour is free and spread out over two days to Part of the fun of the LoLa Art Crawl is meeting artists in a low- allow visitors to enjoy and shop for locally created fine art and key setting and talking with them about their work. crafts at their own pace, with opportunities for food and refresh- More information about the LoLa art crawl and artists is avail- ment at our independent cafés and bistros, many of which have able at LoLaArtCrawl.com.

Cherie Rinehart-Burke, Site 38— 4729 Isabel Ave. I’ve worked to hone my painting with a focus on Kathy Jensen, Site 45—Riverview oil, acrylic and watercolor pencils. Café, 3753 42nd Ave. S. Crayzikat Blake Nellis, Site 9—Forage Modern Workshop, 4023 E. Lake St. I am Making jewelry is incredibly satis- Jewelry works to stand out in the sea a fine art photographer specializing in portraits and weddings (and taking fying and fun too. I love scouring Gwen Partin, Site 14—3154 33rd of jewelry artists by offering interest- photos of my new baby girl!) I love candid moments and working with the thrift stores and garage sales which Ave. S. My drawings, prints, and ing, unique, affordable pieces. Exam- human form. enable me to create wonderful mo- paintings are explorations of pat- ples include eye-catching necklaces saic bird baths, birdhouses, mirrors tern, texture, color and the juxtapo- and earrings made from hardware and picture frames. sition of these in shape and space. store parts and sterling silver earrings The work is mainly abstract but in a variety of shapes that allow you references textile design and things to change the beads for a different seen in nature. In my daily draw- look. This is the fourth year Jensen’s ing practice I call My Daily Papers, jewelry has been featured in LoLa. I complete at least one drawing or painting a day. My prints are mono- types, a painterly way of printmak- ing where I use an etching press. I use rollers and brushes to apply ink to a plexiglass plate and often make hand cut paper stencils that become part of the finished work.

Ann Opatz, Site 38—4729 Isa- bel Ave. Mittens and slippers made from recycled wool and fabric nap- kins and pillowcases.

Bob Schmitt, Site 62—Laughing Waters Studio, 3718 E. Minnehaha Pkwy. Chinese calligraphy and painting. Zen one-stroke paintings. Origi- nals, prints, cards, scrolls. A Chinese brush with a Minnesota spirit. Daily drawing for $50 gift card. Walk the meditation garden.

We Are Now Taking Ads for the 2018 Longfellow Business Directory! Deadline is September 29

Don’t miss out on the 2018 Longfellow Business Directory, which only comes out every two years. A joint project of the Longfellow Business Association (LBA) and the Longfellow Nokomis Messenger, the Directory is a great resource for Longfellow residents and businesses alike, and is delivered door-to-door in the neighborhood. Businesses are listed by category, and can purchase display ads which will be seen repeatedly over the next two years of the Directory’s shelf life. Prime advertising spots are sold on a first come, first served basis. LBA members receive a discount on their ad placements with their membership.

For more information call Denis Woulfe at 651-917-4183 or email [email protected]

www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • September 2017 Page 9 Newly designed Nokomis Playground is imaginative fun for kids By STEPHANIE FOX After a year and a half of public hearings, planning and construction, the children’s playground next to the Lake Nokomis Community Center had its official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony July 28. Kids, from toddlers and up, came with their parents to try out the newly designed playground equipment. The party included free snacks and glitter tattoos from Kristine Thesing from Funtime Funktions. Park Board Commissioner Stephanie Musich and Minne- apolis Park Board project manager Beth Pfeifer were there to officially cut the ribbon and open the new area, handing out pieces of the official ribbon for the kids to take home as sou- venirs. One-year-old Calvin Hawthorne Slides, climbing poles, and other play equipment were built on a topography inspired by the natural world. (Photo by The original playground of St. Paul, part of the Free Forest Stephanie Fox) was designed and opened to School group, bangs a tree stump the public in 1935. During the like a drum, one of the many kids Older kids can take advantage excitement,” she said. had been surveyed last autumn next 82 years, the area has seen enjoying the nature play area that of the new full-sized swings and Luke Schmidt and his at the Monarch Festival and had many changes and had been was originally planned as a tem- a high slide, with concrete pil- daughter Maddie came to try made their preferences for what updated several times. porary pop-up area. The natural lars (suitable for climbing) sur- out the turtle swing, an original they wanted to see in the new The Park Board had sur- play area wasn’t included in the rounding the area. from before the restoration and the park, known. veyed about 250 residents, Nokomis master plan, but since it Workers had finished the one of Maggie’s favorites. They “I voted for the turtle,” mostly in the Nokomis and Hi- was so well-loved, planners didn’t installation only the day before, awatha neighborhoods, both want to remove it, according to proj- with the new wood chips and Continued on page 13 online and at events like Sep- ect manager Beth Pfeifer. (Photo by newly sewn grass protected, for tember’s Monarch Festival and Tesha M. Christensen) the time being, by temporary at preschools and PTA meet- fences. But, fences didn’t stop ings, to see what was needed. the chin-up bars, and sand dig- kids from climbing on the rock- The results showed that neigh- gers are still there, with a few et ship or the abstract tree. Even bors were looking for new and rehabilitated pieces that no lon- before the official opening, kids imaginative modern style play- ger conformed to current safe- were already swinging on the ground pieces, but wanted to ty standards. But now, new and swings or balancing on the bal- keep some of the more popular imaginative pieces and newly ance boards. (and classic) pieces. built areas have been created Musich said that play- So, along with the new for kids of different age-groups, grounds like this one are a vital “The park board has made signif- 21st-century playground design, from babies to pre-teens. Some part of the park community. icant investments in our neigh- members of the public insist- of the pieces are accessible to “So many kids in the urban borhood, and we couldn’t be more ed that some of the oldest and children with disabilities. environment don’t have the thrilled,” said Nokomis East Neigh- most popular pieces be reincor- There are two baby swings opportunities to interact with borhood Association Board President porated and remain at the park. and a set of smaller swings and nature on a tactile basis. That’s Mike Ferrin. (Photo by Tesha M. The old-style metal slides, slides for the younger children. why so many people shared the Christensen)

Parks Commissioner Steffanie Musich is most excited by the natural play area Four-year-old Faye Saybolt goes down the big slide at the Nokomis Com- to the south of the new playground equipment. It is the first like it in Minne- munity Center playground, a feature that residents recall having been there apolis and will provide an example of how to do this elsewhere. “So many kids in the past and asked for again, according to project manager Beth Pfeifer. in an urban environment don’t have the opportunity to get comfortable with “It’s amazing,” said Faye’s mother, Jennifer Saybolt, who lives near the lake. nature in a tactile way.” (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen) (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)

Page 10 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com In Our Community

Send us your news! When you submit your press release it will be considered for both the newspaper as well as the Messenger Facebook page Messenger (Facebook.com/LongfellowNokomisMessenger). You can also go to our website, LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com and enter the information in the online Event Calendar.

to be a resident of the apartments vided with a confidential, non- Lake Hiawatha clean to attend. Monarch Mile installed on E. 50th St. judgmental environment where Longfellow/Seward Healthy they can support each other and up great success Seniors is looking for “Friendly share resources. Teens are invited It was a great day to be out clean- Visitor” volunteers and volun- to meet other teens who under- ing Lake Hiawatha and the sur- teer drivers to help seniors live stand what it’s like to be adopted. rounding neighborhood Aug. independently. Call Longfellow/ The teen group is not a drop-off 19. 160 people collected 1,233 Seward Healthy Seniors at 612- group—parent(s) must attend the pounds of trash from the lake, 729-5799 or email info@ parent support group. For more shoreline and nearby streets— lshealthyseniors.org for more info and to RSVP, contact Ginny that’s more than one-half ton of information on activities, servi- Blade at 651-646-5082 or email trash! ces, or volunteer opportunities. [email protected] (parents); Minnehaha Creek Watershed or contact Christina Romo at District thanks everyone who 651-644-3036, ext. 17, or chris- participated and invites them NA group meets [email protected] (teens). to attend their next 50th anniversary events: The Prairie Seed every Friday night Collection in Minnetrista on Sat., A Narcotics Anonymous group Danish Center plans Sept. 23 and the Coldwater Spring meets every Friday evening at 7pm Nature Hike on Sat., Sept. 30. at Faith Evangelical Lutheran, seasonal breakfasts 3430 E. 51st St. All are welcome The Danish American Center, to attend. 3030 W. River Pkwy., has an- Epworth rummage nounced the dates for their 2017- 2018 Aebleskiver Breakfasts. sale set Sept. 29-30 Red Cross Blood Mark your calendars for Epworth United Methodist Sept. 17, Oct. 15, Nov. 19 (with Church, 3207 37th Ave. S., will Drive set Sept. 10 Art Fair), Jan. 21, Feb. 11 (Valen- hold its annual fall rummage sale Faith Ev. Lutheran Church, 3430 tine’s Day Brunch), Mar. 18, Apr. on Fri. and Sat., Sept. 29-30, from E.51st St., will host an American Annika Johnson (left) helped grandmother Patricia Lyall (right) install 15, and May 13 (Mother’s Day 9am-3pm each day. Come and Red Cross Blood Bank on Sun., native plants in Lyall’s boulevard garden. Theirs was one of 17 new polli- Brunch). explore what unusual and per- Sept. 10, from 9:30am-2:30pm, nator gardens funded by grants from Nokomis East Neighborhood Associ- Cost for regular “all you can haps needed items you might in the lower level of the church in ation, creating the newly designated “Monarch Mile” along East 50th St. eat and drink” breakfasts is $10 find! conjunction with the 8th Annual For more information or to apply for a grant for next year, contact lauren. per adult and $5 for children ages NEBA Block Party. If you would [email protected]. (Photo by Margie O'Loughlin) 5-12. Younger children are free. The like to donate blood, you can sign menu includes aebleskiver, scram- Special outreach up on the American Red Cross bled eggs, sausage, juice, and coffee. there are several development 9am–3pm. The sale will be locat- (Brunches have a different cost and website at www.redcrossblood. projects that were recently acted ed in the Hiawatha Community event set Sept. 10 org and enter the Sponsor Code: menu). Every breakfast runs from upon: School Gym at 4201 42nd Ave. 9:30am-12:30pm and no reserva- Minnehaha Communion Luth “Faith Ev” or call the church • 46th and Snelling: The mixed- S. This school and community eran Church (4101-37th Ave. office at 612-729-5463. Or, if you tions are required. For more infor- use development proposal event raises funds to support the mation, call 612-729-3800. S.) invites the community to a haven’t registered, you can drop (which includes 146 market rate fifth-grade student trip to Camp special outreach event on Sun., in on the day of the blood drive. apartments, a grocery store, and Audubon next spring. Invite your Sept. 10, 11am. The group will restaurant) was approved by friends, family, and neighbors to Trylon schedules new make items to help reduce anx- the Planning Commission. The join us for some fun days of bar- iety: weighted neck “snakes” and Monarch Festival developers are now working on gain hunting. grand opening silent fabric “fidgets.” Participants financing and selecting a grocery can make one item for themselves scheduled Sept. 9 tenant. (See more detailed story After a one-time construction and one for MCLC’s new Healing This year’s Monarch Festival will on page 2.) Gamblers Anonymous delay in July, the Trylon work is Hub sensory library. Enjoy an ice occur on Sat., Sept. 9, from 10am • 44th and Snelling: The City moving ahead. August screenings cream sundae while you create to 4pm. The Festival celebrates Council granted exclusive devel- meets Wednesdays were postponed to September these fun items which will make the monarch butterfly's amaz- opment rights for the Snelling and scheduled on a week-by- a big difference in the lives of Gamblers Anonymous meets week basis. They will soon re- ing 2,300 mile migration from Yards site, where 203 units of Wednesdays from 6-7pm in others. People of all ages and Minnesota to Mexico with music, affordable senior and workforce lease their fall program guide for backgrounds are welcome! the Hope Room at Living Table the Oct./Nov. months. food, dance, hands-on art, na- housing are being proposed. A Church, 3805 E. 40th St. Anyone tive plant sales and plenty of op- joint venture between Lupe De- The new Trylon Cinema with a desire to stop gambling is re-opens the weekend of Fri., portunities to get up close with velopment Partners, Ecumen and welcome. September Events at monarch butterflies. You can The Wall Cos. wants to build two Sept. 22 with Charlie Chaplin’s learn about monarch habitats, buildings—one with 100 work- masterwork, “The Great Dictator” LS Healthy Seniors (1940) on 35mm, preceded by and what you can do to make a force apartments and another Annual Rummage Longfellow/Seward Healthy Se- difference. with 103 senior units. the short film “The Immigrant” niors’ monthly Senior Social/ The Festival will be held just east • 41st and Hiawatha: 78 units of Sale slated Sept. 30 (1917), accompanied by The Poor Health Talk will be held on Tues., of the Lake Nokomis Community affordable workforce housing, as Nobodys. The music is orchestrat- Sept. 19 at 10:30am at Holy Trin- Center in the area bounded by part of a historic renovation, are Minnehaha Communion Luth ed with cello, accordion, acoustic ity Lutheran Church, 2730 E. 31st E. Minnehaha Pkwy., Woodlawn effectively complete, and tenants eran Church, 4101 37th Ave. and electric guitars, piano, upright St. The presentation is entitled Blvd., and E. Nokomis Pkwy. are moving into the Millworks S., will sponsor their Annual bass, mandolin, banjo, and vocals. “What Does the Future Hold for Lofts. Rummage Sale on Sat., Sept. 30, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Af- • 38th and Hiawatha: The pro- 9am–1pm. Bag time starts at fordable Care Act?” AA and NA meets posed multiple mixed-use build- noon. Lunch is served with the NAMIWalks is slated Tai Chi Easy exercise classes ings, public plaza, and additional best sloppy joes and homemade Every Monday night there is an public parking surrounding the bars available for purchase. Stop in Minnehaha Park will resume starting Sept. 11. The AA meeting at 7pm at Minnehaha light rail station hit a delay head- by and check out what they offer. More than 4,500 people from classes will be held on Mondays Communion Lutheran Church ing to Planning Commission. around the state are expected from 10:30–11:30am at Holy (4101 37th Ave. S.), and every Most likely the first phase of the to join in NAMIWalks Minne- Trinity Lutheran Church, and Tuesday and Wednesday night project will be in front of the Adoption support sota on Sat., Sept. 23 at 1pm, at cost $5/class (discounts available there is an AA meeting at 7:30pm. Commission on Sept. 18. Minnehaha Park. NAMIWalks for lower income seniors). On Thursday night, there is an group meets Sept. 12 is a 5K walk to raise awareness A monthly Diabetes Support NA meeting at 7:30pm. All are The Adoption Support Network about mental illnesses and cel- Group for adults will be held welcome to attend. Wed., Sept. 13 from 6:30–8pm at Hiawatha-Howe holds monthly support groups at ebrate hope. There will be live Hiawatha School Park Recreation plans rummage sale Minnehaha Communion Luther- music, picnics, speakers, resource Center, 4305 E. 42nd St. Major construction an Church (4101 37th Ave. S.), tables, a kid’s tent, a tree of hope, A Low Vision Support Group The 2017 Hiawatha-Howe Com for parents with adopted teens. a t-shirt contest and more. will be held Tues., Sept. 12 at projects update munity School Rummage Sale Next meeting will be held on The walk supports the efforts 1:30pm at Trinity Apartments, is planned for Fri., Sept. 15, Tues., Sept. 12, 6:30pm. of NAMI Minnesota (National 2800 E. 31st St. You do not need Council Member Andrew John- 4–5:30pm and Sat., Sept. 16, Adoptive parents are pro- son announced recently that Continued on page 12 www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • September 2017 Page 11 Exhibit by Gordon non-fiction and do-it-your- In Our Community NEBA Block Party planned Sept. 10 self books. And, we never have Continued from page 11 enough picture books—kids (and Coons opens Sept. 9 their parents) are avid custom- Alliance on Mental Illness) to An exhibit of works by Native ers! No one reads text books, so provide education, support, and American artist Gordon Coons of please keep them at home. advocacy for children and adults Ojibwe and Ottawa Heritage will Beginning Sept. 15, please with mental illnesses and their take place Sept. 9-30 at the Vine put donations on the red cart lo- families. Arts Center, 2637 27th Ave. S. cated near the parking lot doors. Over 100,000 individual The opening reception is planned The Friends appreciate every- walkers and supporters partici- for Sat., Sept. 9, 5-9pm, where one who helps us support Library pated in NAMIWalks in more Gordon will talk about his works programs; you make East Lake the than 80 cities across America with a guided tour. The exhibit wonderful community resource it last year. For registration, includ- includes paintings, hand-pulled is! The Fall Sale will be held Fri., The 8th Annual Block Party will be held on Sun., Sept. 10, from 11am- ing forming or joining a walk prints plus creations utilizing Oct. 13, 12-5pm, and 9am-5pm 3pm at 34th Ave. S. and E. 51st St. in McDonald’s Liquor and Oxen- team, call 651-645-2948 or go to Duck Tape. on Sat., Oct. 14. dale’s Market’ parking lots and on the front lawn of Faith Ev. Lutheran namihelps.org and click on the Gordon will be exhibiting Church. There will be many vendors with a variety of wares to sell and NAMIWalks logo. the Ojibwe Woodland Art Style, created from the combination give away. Also at the Block Party will be two bounce houses, a dunk Faith Book Club of Ojibwe petroglyphs (draw- tank, games for children, an antique car show, and blood drive. Food for Greenway Glow ings or carvings on rocks) and sale will also be a part of the festivities. Come for fellowship, food, and meets Sept. 2 fun for the whole family. (File provided) images from birch bark scrolls. The Faith Ev. Lutheran Book raises $18,000 The images can also be identified Club meets the first Saturday of as X-ray Vision. The inspiration garden, and sharing pictures and with Minneapolis-based Good- The Midtown Greenway Coali- every month from 10-11am at for these images relies on Ojibwe stories you bring of pesky Japa- Space Murals, are seeking 10-13 the church, 3430 E. 51st St. The tion would like to thank all the clans and stories. The artist usual- nese beetles and sluggish toma- artists to propose art projects for riders, runners, artists, sponsors, book being discussed Sept. 2 ly paints images with a heavy toes. The location will a mem- a coordinated Lake St. public art- will be “The Love Song of Miss volunteers and festival goers who black outline and paints what ber’s beautiful garden! work series. The artists chosen helped raise more than $18,000 Queenie Hennessy” by Rachel is felt or perceived inside ani- Bring a folding chair (if will engage residents, visitors, Joyce. for the Midtown Greenway at mals (or people). What is painted you care to), and something and businesses on Lake St. from their July 29 Greenway Glow. inside the animal or person rep- to share—a dish using your Dec. 2017 through Aug. 2018. In addition to the 1,000+ resents a kind of spirit, a source own or locally grown produce Artists of all genres, including Author scheduled to people enjoying the arts festival, of powers. is the theme. Ice water and tea new/emerging artists, are invited over 150 VIP riders and runners will be provided. Please bring a to apply to be a part of this pro- speak Sept. 28 joined! Folks got the chance to plate/utensils as they are trying ject. Download the instructions at enjoy poetry readings, glowing Living Table plans to achieve a close to zero waste www.lakestreetcouncil.org/assets/ Lake Nokomis Lutheran gateways, flamenco dancers, event without making a lot of uploads/Programs/Lake_Street_ Church, 5011 31st Ave. S., wel- a ukulele army, a Bronze Age Big Basement Sale trash. Public_Artwork_RFP_-_English__ comes the community to a furnace, mobile music, ghost Thur., Sept. 28, 7pm, discus- Living Table United Church of Directions/map to the pot- Spanish.pdf. photography, and more. luck will be available at 6pm at sion of Minneapolis author Christ, 3805 E. 40th St., will hold Kao Kalia Yang’s latest book, their Big Basement Sale on Sat., the front door of the Epworth United Methodist Church, Books needed for “Song Poet.” In addition, Yang Home Store converts Oct. 7, 8am-3pm. Church mem- will talk about her Hmong bers say they have been saving up 3207 37th Ave. S. See them at LongfellowGardenClubMail@ Fall Book Sale family and the struggles they to Castle showroom the good stuff for a whole year experienced when immigrating just for this event! Refreshments gmail.com or go to www.facebook. Got books? The Friends of East Three years after acquiring The com/LongfellowGardenClub. to the United States. will also be available for sale, and Lake Library (2727 E. Lake St.) Yang (www.kaokaliayang. Natural Built Home Store (4020 there will be a $2 Bag Sale the last are working on this Fall’s sale Minnehaha Ave.), Castle Build- com) is a Hmong American hour, 2-3pm. and are looking for donations. writer, activist, teacher and ing & Remodeling has complet- Lake St. Council This means you have an easy ed the integration of the store’s public speaker. She was born place to drop off a few stacks in Thailand’s Ban Vinai Refugee eco-friendly products and pro- Christ Church gets sends Call For Artists now gathering dust in the hall- cesses into its project standards Camp and now is an American The Lake Street Council and Visit way, stairway, and porch. citizen. She is a graduate of and has therefore decided to con- $130,000 grant Lake Street, with the support of Wondering what to bring? vert the store into a fourth Cas- Carleton College and Columbia Christ Church Lutheran, 3244 the McKnight Foundation and Fiction, biography, and his- University’s School of the Arts. tle showroom. The transition in Twin Cities LISC and working tory are popular, as are current signage and hours will take place 34th Ave. S., has been awarded on Sept. 1 and will allow Castle a $130,000 grant towards the to focus on its wider goals and restoration of the church’s court- allow Castle to serve the South yard. Christ Church Lutheran’s Minneapolis and Longfellow main structures date back to neighborhood with better prox- 1949 and 1962 and were de- Neighborhood Churches Welcome You! imity. signed separately by renowned Castle Building & Remodeling father-and-son architects Eliel Bethlehem Covenant Church Living Table United Church St. Albert the Great Catholic will continue to offer eco-friend- and Eero Saarinen. 3141 43rd Ave. S. • 612-721-5768 of Christ E. 29th St. at 32nd Ave. S. • ly remodeling, inclusive of all The award comes as part of www.bethlehemcov.org 3805 40th St. E. • 612-729-7556 612-724-3643 the products from The Natural an unprecedented $14 million Pastor Matt Kennedy www.livingtable.org www.saintalbertthegreat.org Children especially welcome Built Home Store, in remodeling National Fund for Sacred Places Pastor Rachael Keefe Fr. Joe Gillespie, O.P. Handicapped Accessible Sunday Mass: 9:30 am (Childcare available) projects. However, Castle will no announced by Partners for Sacred Sunday Worship 10:00 am on Sept. 3 Contemporary Worship – 9:00am Saturday Mass: 5 pm longer offer material-only sales, Places and the National Trust for (NOTE: worship times change to Historic Preservation to assist aging Traditional Worship – 10:30am 10:30 am beginning Sept. 10) M,T, Th, F: Rosary at 8 am, Daily Mass flooring install-only services, or Espanol – 1:30pm churches across the country that are Open and Affirming 8:15 am countertop-only replacements. Sept. 10 - Gathering Sunday Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, in need of repair and restoration. Wheelchair accessible This change will allow Castle to Worship 10:30am First Fridays from 9 am to noon The National Fund for We also invite you to join us for: focus on the continued growth of Block party to follow: 11:30-1 Big Basement Sale (Handicapped accessible) Sacred Places is a collaboration design/build remodeling services, Fall worship schedule starting Sept. 17 October 7, 8AM to 3PM that builds on Partners for Sacred which centers on kitchen and Contemporary Worship – 8:45am (We have been saving the good stuff all St. Peder’s Evangelical Lutheran bath remodeling. The widespread Places’ decades of work help- Traditional Worship – 11:00am year for this event) 4600 E. 42nd St. • 612-722-8000 availability of eco-friendly building churches use best steward- Espanol – 1:30pm www.stpeders.org ing materials at most retailers has ship practices with their historic Minnehaha Communion Lutheran Julie A. Ebbesen, Pastor made it tough to compete on this facilities to strengthen, serve and Epworth United Methodist 4101 37th Ave. S. • 612-722-9527 Sundays: 9 am Worship (childcare available) specialization alone. celebrate their communities for 3207 37th Ave. • 612-722-0232 www.minnehahacommunion.com 10 am Coffee & Fellowship the common good. The National www.epworthumcmpls.org Pastors Dan and Sally Ankerfelt Faith Formation begins again Sept 24: Trust for Historic Preservation Pastor Steven Reiser Sunday Worship – 9:45 am 9 am Children/Youth Faith Formation Coffee and Crafts is the nation’s leading preserva- Sunday Worship: 10:30 am (Wheelchair Accessible) 10:30 am Adult Faith Formation tion organization with 60 years Fall Rummage Sale September 29-30, September 10: Sunday school registration/ (Handicap acc., Braille) group meets Sept. 16 of advocacy and grant-making to 9:00-3:00 each day special music/congregation-wide service Join us for a day of service on Sept. 10! preserve America’s diverse history. (Childcare Provided) project/ice cream social following A Coffee and Crafts group will The Fund was launched with two (Wheelchair Accessible) worship. Trinity Lutheran Church meet at Faith Ev. Lutheran Church, grants totaling nearly $14 mil- September 17: 1st day of Sunday school of Minnehaha Falls 3430 E. 51st St., on Sat., Sept. 16, lion from the Indiana-based Lilly Jesus In The City Fellowship classes pre-K – high school. 5212 41st Ave. S. • 612-724-3691 from 9-11am. This is open to Endowment Inc. 3249-30th Av. S. • 612-730-3390 Adoption Support Group meeting date: www.trinityfalls.org everyone. Crafts for this first ses- www.JesusInTheCityFellowship.org 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, September 12th Pastor Matt Oxendale sion will be BooBoo Bunnies, A Pastor Michael Pilla Sunday Worship 10 am (thru 9/3) Ring Pincushion, Beaded Serving Garden Club Fall Sunday 10 am Coffee and Fellowship Spirit Garage Fall Schedule (beg 9/10) 10:30 am Utensils, and Sugar Scrubs. A $5 Sunday 10:30 a.m. Praise and Worship 3010 Minnehaha Ave. • 612-827-1074 Sunday School/kids & adults 9:15 am donation is suggested but not Potluck set Sept. 13 Monday, 6:30 pm Bible Study - Book of John www.spiritgarage.org AA Sun & Tues 7:00 pm required. If you would are inter- Sept. 3 picnic at church. All are welcome. Worship: Sundays, 10:30am ested in attending or would like The Longfellow Garden Club Fall Handicapped Accessible The Hook & Ladder Theater & Lounge more information call 612-729- Potluck will be held Wed., Sept. 5463 and let us know how many 13, 6:30pm. It's a time to spend PROJECTS OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD CHURCHES INCLUDE: Minnehaha Food Shelf, will be attending. a late summer evening outdoors Serving People Tuesday, 10:30 am - 3 pm • Call us at 612-721-6231 • Minnehaha United Methodist 3701 E. 50th St. talking—and eating—all things

Page 12 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Family-owned barbershop continues a 52-year tradition By STEPHANIE FOX to visit, but he doesn’t cut hair, In early August 1965, bar- preferring the leisure life. ber Ed Martin Sr. first opened the Most important to Ed Jr. is doors on his brand new barber- his connection to the commu- shop. His sign announced that nity. “You get to know your cus- ‘Mug and Brush Hair,’ located tomer base. We’ve been cutting near the corner of 34th Ave. and hair for generations of customers. 50th St. in the East Nokomis We watch people grow up. We get neighborhood, was opened for invited to graduations and wed- business. The shop is still there. dings. This is like family.” It was a different time. The The crew—three men, in- President, LBJ, had just an- cluding Ed, and four women— nounced a program called tend to stay. One of younger hair Medicare. There was no Big Mac cutters is in her 40s, and another (you’d have to wait two years). has been there 40 years, longer Gasoline cost 33¢ a gallon and than Ed Jr. has been managing the Dow Jones was going gang- the place. busters, with 39 record closes, But the landscape is chang- ending the year at 969.26. ing, he said. “When my dad As far as the barber business opened up Mug and Brush, there was concerned, buzz cuts and were 7,000 independently owned flattops were still popular, and barber shops in Minnesota. Now, sales of Brylcreem were strong. it’s down to a couple of thousand. But, there was a popular new Back then, every corner had a bar- look, influenced by the Beatles bershop. “Now, it’s hard to find and the British Invasion. Some ones that aren’t corporate cut-rate fashionable men were starting to places. With the economy, small grow their hair longer, even over shops are going by the wayside.” their ears. Sideburns were be- Mug and Brush Hair Design owner Ed Martin Jr. cuts the hair of longtime customer Tom Theis. Mug and Brush Mug and Brush Hair Design, coming the rage. has been serving customers for 52 years. (Photo by Stephanie Fox) however, is thriving. Enter the Martin had just gotten out of front door, and the place seems the military. He’d been called up was illegal for barbers to cut “Then in the 1980s, tanning the business name, although like a tiny one-room operation. during the 1961 Berlin Crisis and hair on Mondays, but you could was big, so we opened on Sun- Martin Jr. is not sure when that But head up the stairs or into the was sent to a base in Georgia to if you were a beauty shop. So, days for tanning,” he said. actually happened. back of the shop, and you’ll find prepare to be deployed. But, the dad brought in hairdressers and Somewhere along the line Today, the shop is one of the five rooms on three floors, with crisis ended quickly, and he never opened six days a week.” the word Design was added to few family-owned barbershops barber chairs for cuts and bonnet had to go to war with the Rus- left in the Twin Cities. Ed Mar- hair dryers for women who have sians. Instead, he started cutting tin, Jr. runs it now that his father weekly wash and set appoint- his fellow soldier’s hair, finding is retired. Craig Martin, Ed Jr.’s ments. The customer base is 50 that he was good at it. When he uncle, works there too. It is one percent male and 50 percent fe- got back to civilian life, he took of a group of family-owned busi- male. “During a regular day, we a job at Honeywell. But, he start- ness near that corner, but it’s part can get from 25 to 75 custom- ed thinking about barbering as a of a dying tradition. ers,” Martin said. “I can put in 11 profession. After a stint at barber Ed Jr. predicts that there will hours a day. Everyone is always school, the Mug and Brush Hair soon be fewer barber shops and booked up.” was born. more beauty shops—they have As far as family-owned While many of the shop’s different licenses and different businesses, the neighborhood customers came from the neigh- rules—and in 15 or so years, the around Mug and Brush may be borhood and the local military licenses will combine. “Barber different than many in the Twin base, celebrities showed up, too. shops are falling out of favor, and Cities. There are two other long- Martin would get calls from the fewer people are going into that time family-owned stores on the White House when Vice Presi- business,” he said. corner with Mug and Brush. Mc- dent Hubert Humphrey was ex- The barber life was a natural Donald’s Liquor and Wine has pected in town. Humphrey’s kids for the son. “I remember coming been around for about 70 years, would also come for haircuts. into the shop when I was a kid and the Nokomis Shoe Shop has Part of the shop’s early suc- to visit my dad. I never thought been part of the neighborhood cess came because of changing of doing anything else,” he said. for 86 years. hairstyles and Martin Sr.’s busi- In 1989, at age 19, Ed Jr. attend- As the youngest business ness acumen. “There was a turned Moler Barber School and then at 52 years, Martin said, “We’re ing point in hairstyle,” said his joined his father at Mug and going to be here a long time, son and now-owner Ed Martin Jr. Mug and Brush second generation owner Ed Martin Jr. of Mug and Brush Brush. Ed Sr., now 77-years old, too.” “A lot of old-time barbers refused Hair Design runs the front desk in addition to cutting hair. Mug and Brush retired in 2010. He still comes in to cut long hair. At the time, it celebrated its 52nd anniversary in August. (Photo by Stephanie Fox) them to say, ‘Hey, this is cool,’ Nokomis playground he said. Continued from page 10 Much of the park is what DesRoches calls ‘abstract nature.’ “We’re replicating themes said Maddie. “I voted for shady from nature, with natural con- seats,” said her dad. cepts and forms, hills and to- “People like the way the old pography,” he said. playground was spread out,” One section features real said Pfeifer. “They also loved sticks and logs, with natural the nature play area, which was topography and grading. “It’s a originally meant to be tempo- key part of the play area,” Des- rary. We worked with the forest- Roches said and hopes it will ry department for that, and all spark imaginative play. the materials for that are from “I like to offer kids op- the park.” portunities for free play,” he Nokomis Playground is said. “Kids can play tag or play also the new home of the Wil- on the rocket ship. This play- low Thicket, a natural dome ground represents what the structure, moved from the Lake community wanted. People Harriet Rose Garden and in- wanted a big slide, and people stalled at the center of the play- wanted it to be inspired by na- ground. ture. So, we built that. The kids The money for the project, seem to like it.” $300,000, had been approved by the city in 2015, paid for with net debt bonds. The Park SEND US YOUR Board hired designer Chris Des- Roches, who specializes in chil- STORY IDEAS! dren’s playgrounds. He said that when he designs equipment, Call (651) 917-4182 or he tries to see the playground email editorial@ Past customers of Mug and Brush Hair Design include Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey, as well as his kids. through kid’s eyes. He wants (Photo by Stephanie Fox) deruyternelson.com www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • September 2017 Page 13 Agriculture area and athletic fields design added to Nokomis-Hiawatha master plan

On July 19, Minneapolis those projects. for the official designation of Athletic Fields concept features Park and Recreation Board Currently, there are no any areas where harvesting may a large open space to ac- (MPRB) Commissioners ap- funds allocated toward the take place, so this amendment commodate one Australian proved two amendments to Urban Agriculture Area or new designates that area along the football field or three adult the Nokomis-Hiawatha Master Nokomis Athletic Field con- east side of Lake Hiawatha. soccer fields or any va- Plan. cept, but now that the plans riety of smaller field ar- One amendment creates a are in place the projects will Nokomis Athletic Fields rangements for ultimate designated Urban Agriculture happen as soon as funding be- concept design Frisbee, flag football, Area on the east side of Lake comes available. or youth soccer. There Hiawatha. Another amendment No final decision was made on are six improved soft- approved a design concept for Lake Hiawatha Park the Nokomis Athletic Fields ball diamonds around during the master planning the Nokomis Athletic Fields, Urban Agriculture Area the edges of the field located on the northwest side process in 2014-15 to allow where the outfields do of Lake Nokomis. In the Master Plan, the eastern time for a final determina- not overlap. The main The Nokomis-Hiawatha portion of Lake Hiawatha was tion regarding a renovation idea was to create broad Master Plan was approved by shown as a mix of open lawn of nearby Bossen Field Park. flexibility in field ar- MPRB Commissioners on area and naturalized habitat Now Bossen’s renovation is rangement and striping, March 4, 2015. The Master areas. Recently, the community nearly complete, primarily as while ensuring that the Plan is a written and graphic has expressed interest in hav- a softball complex with asso- very largest of pos- document that sets a 25-year ing the ability to harvest from ciated community amenities, sible fields could be vision for Lake Hiawatha, Lake fruit trees in this area. so MPRB staff moved forward accommodated Nokomis, and the surround- Any harvesting in parks with a concept for Nokomis without ing parkland. Both the Urban will require an ordinance that provides increased open over- Agriculture Area and Nokomis change, which MPRB Com- space for a variety of field lapping Athletic Field design concept missioners will consider at sports and fewer softball dia- softball were not included in the Mas- an upcoming Board meeting. monds. infields. ter Plan, so amendments are The Urban Agriculture Activi- required to move forward with ty Plan, adopted in 2014, calls The approved Nokomis Classifieds Want ads must be received by the Messenger by September 18 for the September 28 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 home. 25 years exp. State Courts, and 42nd St. Open to build out. word with a $10 minimum. Microsoft. Woman-owned. www. PAINTING 2nd floor office space available. STORAGE Send your remittance along with harmonypc.us 651-605-5804. 10-17 Bill's Painting. 38 years experi- Call Jim between 8 a.m. 2 p.m. MPLS Storage located in the your ad to Messenger Classifieds, ence. Painting, wallpaper, staining 612-729-2316 or email: KRZ@ Longfellow neighborhood has 125 1st Ave. NW, PO Box 168, EMPLOYMENT and texturing. Fully insured. Free NELSONELECTRICINC.COM. B-1 units for rent at low rates. Locally Minneapolis, MN 55369. Want ads Volunteer & Earn Money! - estimates. Attention to details. owned and family operated. 1/2 must be mailed to the Messenger Seniors Corps is looking for vol- Call Bill 612-790-1266. 9-17 SERVICES block from Lake and Hiawatha. before Sept. 18 for the Sept. 28 unteers to assist seniors in your Painter Jim. 35 years experience. Concrete work: Steps, sidewalks, 612-333-7525. B-17 issue. Ad copy can be e-mailed community. Volunteers receive a Small painting jobs wanted. 612- patios, driveways. Licensed, bond- to [email protected]. stipend, mileage reimbursement 202-5514. 9-17 ed, insured. Call Tom Seemon, Call 651-917-4183 for more infor- & other benefits. Contact Kate 612-721-2530. 11-17 NEXT DEADLINE mation. Your classified ad will Lecher 651.310.9447 or kate.lech- PETS Housecleaning - Reasonable September 18 also be automatically placed on [email protected] 12-17 John's Dog Walking - Daily dog rates. Call for an estimate. Evie the Messenger’s website at www. walks, boarding and in home pet 612-558-1967. 9-17 NEXT ISSUE LongfellowNokomisMessenger HANDYMAN visits. 15 years experience, Insured .com Dr. House does it all: From a and Bonded. 612-825-9019. www. September 28 leaky faucet to a new addition. I facebook.com/johnpetservice. 9-17 COMPUTER REPAIR/ can save you money on electrical SERVICE and plumbing. Call John at 651- RENTALS Harmony PC computer repair, ser- 231-5652. B-17 Office or therapy space for rent: vice, instruction. Service in your On bus route. Easy access to light rail. Located at Minnehaha Ave S.

Page 14 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com Lake + Minnehaha Open Streets was a beautiful day Photos by MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN

This year’s Lake + Minnehaha Open Streets event appeared to go off without a hitch. The Minnehaha Scoop did a brisk day of business in A pleasant day without heat warnings; good crowds in attendance; and a welcome re- their newly opened store front at 3352 Minnehaha Ave. turn of the newly upgraded and repurposed Minnehaha Ave. to the event route. Open Streets Minneapolis brings together community groups and local businesses to tempo- SEE MORE OPEN STREETS PHOTOS AT: rarily close major thoroughfares to car traffic, and opens them up for people walking, www.longfellownokomismessenger.com/lake-minneha- biking, skating, and playing. This community event is in its sixth year and is co-spon- ha-open-street sored by the City of Minneapolis.

㘀㔀㄀⸀㘀㤀㠀⸀㔀㘀㄀㠀眀眀眀⸀戀甀挀欀ⴀ戀爀漀猀⸀挀漀洀㘀㄀㈀⸀㜀㈀㤀⸀㜀㘀㠀 ∠ 眀眀眀⸀戀甀挀欀ⴀ戀爀漀猀⸀挀漀洀 ing on Aug. 14 as scheduled. Ad- Minnehaha Academy ministrative staff who were housed Continued from page 1 at the Upper School will be located in temporary offices outside the 圀攀搀攀猀椀最渀 ☀ 戀甀椀氀搀 They have to find a building to Lower/Middle School. All faculty hold classes in, set up food service, were welcomed back to work on 椀渀礀漀甀爀渀攀椀最栀戀漀爀栀漀漀搀 arrange for furniture and more. Aug. 15. Classes at the Upper Academy 䬀椀琀挀栀攀渀猀Ⰰ 䈀愀琀栀猀Ⰰ 䄀搀搀椀琀椀漀渀猀 will start two weeks late on Tues., How to help 刀攀猀琀漀爀愀琀椀漀渀猀 Sept. 5. With some juggling of the The school has received many of- 䴀一氀椀挀攀渀猀攀 ⌀㐀㔀㤀㌀ schedule, including the removal of fers of support from Minneapolis the week-long Cultural Field Expe- and St. Paul, where 79% of their rience, the 360 upper-class students students come from. To some the at Minnehaha will end their school school is saying, “We don’t know year at the same time as the Lower how you can help now, but we’ll and Middle students in June. know later,” said Wenschlag. Meanwhile, the school has A letter from President Donna continued to move forward as it Harris outlined three ways to help can. Athletic teams started practic- Minnehaha: “1. Pray. Continue to pray for everyone who was involved in the incident, for the families of John Carlson and Ruth Berg, for our leadership team as we make deci- sions, for our staff, faculty, and students, and for the future rebuilding of the Upper School. A fence surrounding Minnehaha’s “2. Help. Let us know your exper- Upper Campus keeps people out of tise. Sign up to let us know how the property as the investigation you can be of service during this is underway. (Photo by Tesha M. time. https://goo.gl/forms/PY- Christensen) D7EE4uE9yOKvmf2. “3. Give. In the rebuilding pro- at Minnehaha. cess, we will make an even better “It is one of those jewels in Minnehaha. Your gifts will sup- plain sight,” said the Bryn Mawr port the school in this transition resident. and cover expenses beyond our As he looked around at the insurance coverage. www.minneha- crowd gathered for the Unity Walk, haacademy.net/giving/givenow.” Bauer commented, “This is a reflec- Neighbors have offered their tion of Minnehaha—Minnehaha help and their support, and several before and Minnehaha today.” local businesses donated food and Bauer added, “I’m incredibly coffee. “We are grateful to be in a hopeful for what the future looks caring Minnehaha community, but like as they continue to unravel what happened—but also as they also in a caring Longfellow com- continue to move forward as a munity,” said Jacobson. community of faith—that all the pieces will come together.” Strong and resilient community “We are fortunate to have a Before the Aug. 15 Unity Walk, strong, resilient community and a Richard Bauer didn’t truly under- faithful God,” said Jacobson. stand what it was about Minnehaha “We believe that the school Academy that connected its past will become even greater through and present students, parents, this experience, and we move for- and teachers. But after the walk, ward knowing that our school is so Bauer realized how tightly knit the much more than a building—it’s a Minnehaha Academy family is. His community. Students and families wife’s maternal grandfather served come to Minnehaha because of the on the school board, and the fol- tremendous academic experience lowing generations have attended delivered by our amazing faculty. school there, including Bauer’s two That doesn’t change.” children. One is currently a senior www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com • Messenger • September 2017 Page 15 Belle’s Tool Box, creative play space, opening soon By MARGIE O’LOUGHLIN thing we really need to get away There has been a steady hum from. There’s so much joy in of construction on the southwest giving new life to used products. corner of 42nd Ave. and 34th The accent tiles in the bathroom St. for several months now. The came from Junket; the sink and bright blue concrete block build- other mechanicals came from ing, an automobile garage since the Habitat for Humanity Re- 1955, has been completely repur- Store and Better Futures. The posed. Local sign painter Forrest plantings mostly came from Wozniak recently painted the Mother Earth Gardens and new business name on the exte- Minnehaha Nursery, who pro- rior: Belle’s Tool Box, but pass- vided valuable advice.” ers-by might still be wondering With a lifetime of experi- what it means? ence in the fields of early child- Belle’s Tool Box co-owner hood education, teen parent Lucy Elliot said. “I’ve dreamed education, and regional histo- of creating a ‘children’s project ry, Elliot dreamed of finding a space’ for young children and way to pull all of her interests their grown-ups for decades. I re- together. “In each of those ca- cently retired from my job as a pacities,” Elliot said, “I found history educator, and I’m aware myself always lugging boxes of that time is ticking. This play, stuff around. I love process-ori- build, and fix-it enterprise is a ented stuff, 3-D stuff, re-pur- nod to my Mom and other fine posed stuff. Part of my dream women; my Mom’s name was was to have a space where all of Bonnie, but her nickname was this learning stuff could stay put Bonnie Belle.” and be used.” Elliot said that Belle’s Tool It appears that Elliot’s Box will be opening in mid-Sep- Lucy Elliot, co-owner of Belle’s Tool Box, on the southwest corner of 42nd Ave. and 34th St. Elliot is stepping into a dream has come true. tember. “We hope to grow organ- phase of her life that she dreamed of for decades: opening a creative play, build and fix-it space for young children “We have this wonderful ically and, as of now, we don’t and their grown-ups. (Photo by Margie O’Loughlin) spot on the corner, a tiny square have a website. If you want to of the universe where we can do find out the exact days and times We’re not a non-profit, and we’re than thirty years. They moved But here, we were starting from so much good,” she said. “Peo- that we’ll be here, just give a not trying to get rich either. Our to Longfellow 3-½ years ago to scratch. I read the neighborhood ple in the neighborhood have holler over the fence. We plan hope is that the donations will be close to their daughter, son- newspapers, and I chose contrac- really been supportive, dropping to have staggered hours like a li- cover utilities and taxes. Everyone in-law, and two grandchildren. tors who advertised in them. I off peony plants, and building brary. Parents can choose a time is welcome—just not all at the Daughter Jenni Cantine is Elliot’s ended up having great experienc- materials for the kids; a woman that’s convenient, and drop in for same time. We have seven coat partner in creating and operating es with all of the people I hired, handed a box of quilting and an hour or so to play with their hooks for children in the entry Belle’s Tool Box. in particular builder David Graf- sewing materials over the fence child or children. The 25’ x 25’ way, and five for adults. If a fami- “Our relocation made start- funder, who was able to translate the other day. Our neighbors, interior space is too small to stay ly comes for a visit and the main ing a new business more chal- my ideas into reality.” and the neighborhood business- much longer than that.” area is too busy, the gazebo and lenging,” Elliot said. If we’d Elliot said, “I pretty much es too, have been patient during “We want to start small,” the learning gardens will be fun still been in Elgin, we would designed everything on site. our long construction. This has Elliot added, “and just see how to play in too.” have been able to draw on the Much of the wood that’s vis- been a labor of love for us, and things develop. We’ll be asking Elliot and her husband Mark interests and experience of our ible has been reclaimed. I see we will continue to welcome for a donation of $3-5 per visit. lived in Elgin, Illinois for more longtime friends and neighbors. planned obsolescence as some- help and ideas along the way.”

Page 16 September 2017 • Messenger • www.LongfellowNokomisMessenger.com