Now that the weather has changed and gotten colder, people are starting to warm up their vehicles. The Duluth Police Department would like to remind citizens not to leave their cars and trucks running unattended and un-secure. City ordinance restricts leaving your keys in an unattended vehicle under City Code 33-91, but if you choose to warm your car up or leave it running, at a minimum, roll up the windows and lock the doors.
Auto theft is often a crime of opportunity and citizens can help prevent auto theft by not giving a thief the opportunity to steal their car. Also, do not leave vehicles running and un-secure when going into the store. It only takes a person a few seconds to get into a running, unlocked car and drive away.
Incident: On 11/14/2006 Duluth Police received a report of a vehicle stolen from outside of a person’s home in the East Hillside during the evening hours. The vehicle was running, unattended and unlocked. Duluth Police later recovered this vehicle in West Duluth after a diligent citizen observed suspicious juvenile entering vehicles and contacted 911. Duluth Police Officers arrested the juvenile male and the investigation revealed he had stolen the above vehicle and also entered six other vehicles. Charges are being requested from the St. Louis County Attorney’s Office, Juvenile Division.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Citizenship-Not to be Taken for Granted
By Sandy Robinson
In order to become a naturalized citizen of the United States, a person must first have status as a Permanent Resident. Permanent Resident status is achieved through a sponsor, who is either a US citizen or a Permanent Resident, filing a petition, which, if approved, allows a resident of a foreign country to apply for a visa to enter the US.
Once residing in the US for a determined number of years, a Permanent Resident can apply for US citizenship. An application with a fee is sent to the appropriate Federal office and processed. After acceptance of the application, the Permanent Resident is called in for fingerprinting and a photograph is taken. After processing of fingerprints, the Permanent Resident is given an appointment for an interview and must also demonstrate the ability to speak, read and write English and pass a civics test.
This requirement can be modified for persons over the age of 55 who have resided in the US as Permanent Residents for more then 15 years. If everything goes smoothly, the whole process can take about 6 months.
On Friday, November 3, 2006, 30 people representing the diversity that is enriching Northern Minnesota entered Court Room 1 of the United States District Court in the Federal Building at the Duluth Civic Center. With friends and family packing the courtroom, people representing more than 10 foreign countries took the oath of allegiance and became naturalized US citizens. Each new US citizen is given a certificate of citizenship, a US flag and voter's registration information. The group included local television personality, Barbara Reyelts and Hillside residents Paul Robinson and his son, Sean Robinson
In order to become a naturalized citizen of the United States, a person must first have status as a Permanent Resident. Permanent Resident status is achieved through a sponsor, who is either a US citizen or a Permanent Resident, filing a petition, which, if approved, allows a resident of a foreign country to apply for a visa to enter the US.
Once residing in the US for a determined number of years, a Permanent Resident can apply for US citizenship. An application with a fee is sent to the appropriate Federal office and processed. After acceptance of the application, the Permanent Resident is called in for fingerprinting and a photograph is taken. After processing of fingerprints, the Permanent Resident is given an appointment for an interview and must also demonstrate the ability to speak, read and write English and pass a civics test.
This requirement can be modified for persons over the age of 55 who have resided in the US as Permanent Residents for more then 15 years. If everything goes smoothly, the whole process can take about 6 months.
On Friday, November 3, 2006, 30 people representing the diversity that is enriching Northern Minnesota entered Court Room 1 of the United States District Court in the Federal Building at the Duluth Civic Center. With friends and family packing the courtroom, people representing more than 10 foreign countries took the oath of allegiance and became naturalized US citizens. Each new US citizen is given a certificate of citizenship, a US flag and voter's registration information. The group included local television personality, Barbara Reyelts and Hillside residents Paul Robinson and his son, Sean Robinson
Hillside father and son receive citizenship
Hillside father and son, Paul and Sean Robinson received Untied States Citizenship status on Fri, Nov. 3 in Duluth. The Robinsons immigrated to Duluth from Jamaica in 1998.
Paul works seasonally for the City of Duluth and performs with a local reggae band. He is married to Sandra Robinson.
Sean is a 2004 Duluth Central High School graduate and the first Clayton, Jackson, McGhie Scholarship recipient. He also received a scholarship from the Alan Page Education foundation. He is a sophomore at UMD majoring in mechanical engineering and is employed at Miller Dwan Hospital.
For a related story see Citizenship-Not to be Taken for Granted.
Paul works seasonally for the City of Duluth and performs with a local reggae band. He is married to Sandra Robinson.
Sean is a 2004 Duluth Central High School graduate and the first Clayton, Jackson, McGhie Scholarship recipient. He also received a scholarship from the Alan Page Education foundation. He is a sophomore at UMD majoring in mechanical engineering and is employed at Miller Dwan Hospital.
For a related story see Citizenship-Not to be Taken for Granted.
Free Medicare D Counseling
Free Medicare D Counseling
Offered by the Area Agency On Aging, Senior Linkage Line
It’s Time to Consider Your Options for Medicare Part D. The Annual Enrollment Period opens on November 15th and runs through December 31st for plans that go into effect on 1 January 2007. Now is the time to review your current needs to determine whether your plan is still working for you.
At Rainbow and Lincoln Park Centers volunteer counselors will utilize tools at www.Medicare.gov to help participants determine which prescription drug plan best meets their needs. Anyone who feels that a Medicare D plan will meet their needs can enroll during the appointment, or enroll at a later time. Anyone can use this web site to do individual research using the "Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder". At each community center site there will also be computers available for those who want to do the Medicare Part D program search independently without the assistance of a volunteer counselor.
Volunteer Counselors will help participants identify the best possible options for their individual circumstances. People using the computer to assess their options need to have a list of their prescription drugs and dosage instructions, or bring their prescription bottles with them to the computer lab.
At Rainbow Center, the lab will be reserved for Medicare Part D counseling on Mondays from 9 AM to 1 PM weekly through December 18. Appointments can be made for any Monday by calling 727-8147 Ext. 0 and talking to the volunteer receptionist.
At Lincoln Park Center the computer lab will be reserved for Medicare D counseling on Tuesdays from 11 AM to 3 PM weekly through December 19. Appointments can be made for any Tuesday by calling 722-4107 Ext. 0 and talking to the volunteer receptionist. Walk-ins can be accepted at each center between appointments.
Offered by the Area Agency On Aging, Senior Linkage Line
It’s Time to Consider Your Options for Medicare Part D. The Annual Enrollment Period opens on November 15th and runs through December 31st for plans that go into effect on 1 January 2007. Now is the time to review your current needs to determine whether your plan is still working for you.
At Rainbow and Lincoln Park Centers volunteer counselors will utilize tools at www.Medicare.gov to help participants determine which prescription drug plan best meets their needs. Anyone who feels that a Medicare D plan will meet their needs can enroll during the appointment, or enroll at a later time. Anyone can use this web site to do individual research using the "Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Finder". At each community center site there will also be computers available for those who want to do the Medicare Part D program search independently without the assistance of a volunteer counselor.
Volunteer Counselors will help participants identify the best possible options for their individual circumstances. People using the computer to assess their options need to have a list of their prescription drugs and dosage instructions, or bring their prescription bottles with them to the computer lab.
At Rainbow Center, the lab will be reserved for Medicare Part D counseling on Mondays from 9 AM to 1 PM weekly through December 18. Appointments can be made for any Monday by calling 727-8147 Ext. 0 and talking to the volunteer receptionist.
At Lincoln Park Center the computer lab will be reserved for Medicare D counseling on Tuesdays from 11 AM to 3 PM weekly through December 19. Appointments can be made for any Tuesday by calling 722-4107 Ext. 0 and talking to the volunteer receptionist. Walk-ins can be accepted at each center between appointments.
Awards given at LISC Lucnheon
Duluth’s Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) awarded two groups and one individual at the annual LISC Celebration Luncheon on Nov. 1
Rick Ball, executive director of the Duluth Housing Redevelopment Authority (HRA), accepted the first award on behalf of his governmental agency which develops and administers public housing.
Bruce Wyman, Executive Director of the Hillside Business Association, accepted an award on behalf of his organization, and was joined at the podium by HBA board members Henry Banks, Tammy Gosline, Gene McKeever and Claudie Washington. HBA was recognized for its role in saving the Fourth Street Market and helping it come under ownership by minority community members, for promoting the Fourth Street Redevelopment Plan, and for its advocacy on behalf of the Village Place Apartments and Chester Creek Bridge. HBA focuses on economic development, crime prevention and safety, storefront renovation and business retention efforts, and also participates in the At Home in Duluth initiative.
Scott Vesterstein, representing the private sector, received a Building Better Neighborhoods award for his work in At Home in Duluth neighborhoods and affordable housing initiatives through LISC-supported partnerships.
Also recognized at the luncheon for her service was outgoing LISC Local Advisory Board member Marti Buscaglia, publisher for the Duluth News-Tribune
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Native Pride marches up the Hillside to dispell myth of Columbus
Captions: Left to right are: Jon Perrin, Savannah Howes, Ronny Powell, Alesia Buffalo, and Courtney Cochran.
Jackie Fairbanks, a 6th grader at Woodland Middle School walked beside her father, John Fairbanks. She said, “We aren’t really celebrating the truth.” She thinks Native Americans are treated differently when the truth is not taught.
Last month on Columbus Day while the city hall, and downtown Post Office stood quiet because employees had this legal holiday off, a chant could be heard: “Say it loud! Say it proud! Native pride marching up the Hillside!” The chant was shouted by Native American youth.
It was Mon., Oct. 9. A group of teenagers named Native Youth Agenda led over 144 people on a one-mile march from the library on the corner of Fifth Avenue West and Superior Street to the Washington Center on North Lake Street and Third Street West.
Jackie Fairbanks, a 6th grader at Woodland Middle School walked beside her father, John Fairbanks. She held a sign that said, “Myths of Columbus: He found and discovered America; He is a national hero.” She said she was walking because it was good for native people to get together, “We aren’t really celebrating the truth,” she said of Columbus Day. “We are sort of living a lie.” She also said that when most of America celebrates Columbus Day, “They treat us differently.”
Jon Perrin, a 9th grader at Denfeld, High School said, “We just believe that Columbus did not actually find land. He traveled and discovered (America) and killed natives.
Dana Megenupch said she participated in the march “…to support my people.” She went on to say, “(They) tired to banish us. We need to make people realize that we were here first and to stop trying to demolish us. It will never be done.” As the crowd walked by the Washington Center on Fourth Street she called out to some teenage boys across the street telling them they ought to join their people.
Once inside the Washington Center a large crowd gathered to prepare for a meal. Duluth Mayor Herb Bergson spoke to the group. “This is the last time the City of Duluth will allow a day off for Columbus Day,” he said. Bergson said he was raised to celebrate Columbus Day, but while in college he learned the truth about Columbus. We raised our two sons to know the truth he said, “The man was a slave trader and a butcher, and we can not honor murderers.” He said the whites and black in the room were there to show their support.
After Bergson’s speech the crowd listened to the Lake Vermillion Singers. Bill Howes, a leader with Native Youth Agenda said it was an honor song for “Every single person who lost their life fighting for something they believed in.”
Before the meal, Virgil Sohm said a prayer in his native tongue. The youth served the elders before they themselves could eat.
Bill Howes was one of the adults working with the youth. His wife Edye Howes is the coordinator of Native Youth Agenda and they have a daughter, Savannah, age 13, in Native Youth Agenda. (They also have a daughter Che, age 5) He said the young people choose this issue a couple of years ago and the youth had set a goal of having 250 people show up. By time the event ended with a meal there were 250 people.
Howes said, “It is about the youth standing up and doing something that they thought was important.” He went on to say, “The goal is more than just the march. It is to keep spreading the message. Ultimately, it is important to learn the truth. There are all kinds of events we need to look at from multiple perspectives, not just one person who gets to write the textbook
Rachel Kincaid works with youth every day. She is the executive director of Lifehouse. She said it was good for the youth to learn how to lead an event like they did for the Myth of Columbus Day. “It allows them to know their own strength and power to change things,” she said.
The Buzz
Captions: Judy Phifer above and Chad Behling at left.
Program of Promise which assists youth age 16 - 20 with education and training has moved to 222 E. Superior St. Judy Phifer is the executive director.
Rockbochs, Inc moved to 202 E. Superior St. in February 2006. Chad Behling is the owner. He does technology consulting to businesses. Clients include a natural disaster communication company and Maurice’s.
Rev. Warren Schulz will be the interim pastor at First Lutheran Church at 1100 E. Superior St. He will start on Nov. 15 and serve until a permanent senior pastor is found which will be approximately one year.
Former Senior Pastor Rick Lund is now serving an ELCA church in Madison, Wis.
Duluth First Oriental Grocery store moved at the end of September. They are in the old Dogbooties.com location. The new address is 801 E. First St. They now have parking and air conditioning
Precious Lord’s Ministry will be opening up at 101 W. Fourth St. Jackie Palm, her family and friends are remodeling the old store to open a ministry to people involved in drugs, crime and prostitution. Palm said, “There is something better than what you are doing. You can have a positive life and higher self-esteem.” She said this ministry would provide them with people who care.
Needed donations at this time for Precious Lord’s Ministry includes a piano and design work. The ministry hopes to open in November. For more information phone 218-428-9268.
Rockbochs, Inc moved to 202 E. Superior St. in February 2006. Chad Behling is the owner. He does technology consulting to businesses. Clients include a natural disaster communication company and Maurice’s.
Rev. Warren Schulz will be the interim pastor at First Lutheran Church at 1100 E. Superior St. He will start on Nov. 15 and serve until a permanent senior pastor is found which will be approximately one year.
Former Senior Pastor Rick Lund is now serving an ELCA church in Madison, Wis.
Duluth First Oriental Grocery store moved at the end of September. They are in the old Dogbooties.com location. The new address is 801 E. First St. They now have parking and air conditioning
Precious Lord’s Ministry will be opening up at 101 W. Fourth St. Jackie Palm, her family and friends are remodeling the old store to open a ministry to people involved in drugs, crime and prostitution. Palm said, “There is something better than what you are doing. You can have a positive life and higher self-esteem.” She said this ministry would provide them with people who care.
Needed donations at this time for Precious Lord’s Ministry includes a piano and design work. The ministry hopes to open in November. For more information phone 218-428-9268.
Have a digital camera? Send photos of garbage violations to sbenning@ci.duluth.mn.us or phone Sarah Benning, solid waste administrator at 218-730-5151
George Garnett to speak at Central Hillside Community Club, Tues., Nov. 14
George Garnett, Executive Director of Neighborhood Housing Services of Duluth, will speak at the next police-sponsored community meeting on Tue., Nov. 14, at 7:00 p.m. at the Central Hillside Community Club building. George will speak on NHS’s efforts in the Lincoln Park neighborhood to fight crime and improve housing and vacant lots through code enforcement. George will speak about joint efforts between residents, neighborhood agencies, and city departments, including block club anti-crime efforts
George Garnett, Executive Director of Neighborhood Housing Services of Duluth, will speak at the next police-sponsored community meeting on Tue., Nov. 14, at 7:00 p.m. at the Central Hillside Community Club building. George will speak on NHS’s efforts in the Lincoln Park neighborhood to fight crime and improve housing and vacant lots through code enforcement. George will speak about joint efforts between residents, neighborhood agencies, and city departments, including block club anti-crime efforts
Our Hillside needs more ownership by people of color
I’ll put it plainly: our Duluth Hillside doesn’t contain enough businesses owned by those that contribute to these richly diverse neighborhoods, namely people of color.
How sad it is to say goodbye to a business with great potential in the Duluth Hillside, “Diamonds in the Rough” and owner, Melissa Grimes. Your September article points out cause for sadness very well: strained economics and a lost connectedness for our neighbors of color.
Ownership, whether a business, home or possession, a way of life, education, an idea, heritage, or talent, (the list is endless), is part of what makes us who we are. And I’m not leaving out passion, in this case defined as commitment, enthusiasm, zeal, or drive. This passion led a woman of color, Melissa Grimes, to open a business in Duluth for which there is a market and need.
Duluth, more specifically our Hillside, has people of passion, people responding to potential and possibilities. Passion and dreams are just as real and legitimate as the need for food, and likewise the need for connectedness and ownership.
I believe in possibilities. I may not have the same talents, passions (or dreams) as my neighbor, but I believe that possibilities abound for those wanting to live out their talent, their passion: this includes any person of color.
Sorely lacking are the tools to accomplish this: money, education, and not the least of which are support and encouragement from the community at large.
A small business, a locally owned business, is vital to any community of any size or cultural character. We tell our young people that they can be whatever they want to be. Yet do we really show them a way, help them follow through on a dream, a passion?
Deyona and Jamar Kirk have responded. Their ownership of Ma and Pop’s Fourth Street Market makes my case. Your September article does well to applaud their labor to meet a need. I wholeheartedly support them as the community does -- with my patronage as well as my words.
So, with sadness we say goodbye to Melissa Grimes, and with hope we extend a heartfelt welcome to Deyona and Jamar. And we thank all of these people for modeling a belief in possibilities.
I look forward to reading more about neighbors like Melissa, Deyona, and Jamar in the Hillsider. All are to be respected and emulated, and dare we expect that they mentor other “possibilities” to live out a “passion”?
The fact is: we can all “give back to the community”, to quote Melissa, in so many supportive ways. We can start with a challenging K-12 education and on through institutions of higher learning.
The real challenge is to aid in discovering and promoting possibilities, passions and assist in making these live, most particularly for people of color.
Sincerely, Sarah L Chambers
I’ll put it plainly: our Duluth Hillside doesn’t contain enough businesses owned by those that contribute to these richly diverse neighborhoods, namely people of color.
How sad it is to say goodbye to a business with great potential in the Duluth Hillside, “Diamonds in the Rough” and owner, Melissa Grimes. Your September article points out cause for sadness very well: strained economics and a lost connectedness for our neighbors of color.
Ownership, whether a business, home or possession, a way of life, education, an idea, heritage, or talent, (the list is endless), is part of what makes us who we are. And I’m not leaving out passion, in this case defined as commitment, enthusiasm, zeal, or drive. This passion led a woman of color, Melissa Grimes, to open a business in Duluth for which there is a market and need.
Duluth, more specifically our Hillside, has people of passion, people responding to potential and possibilities. Passion and dreams are just as real and legitimate as the need for food, and likewise the need for connectedness and ownership.
I believe in possibilities. I may not have the same talents, passions (or dreams) as my neighbor, but I believe that possibilities abound for those wanting to live out their talent, their passion: this includes any person of color.
Sorely lacking are the tools to accomplish this: money, education, and not the least of which are support and encouragement from the community at large.
A small business, a locally owned business, is vital to any community of any size or cultural character. We tell our young people that they can be whatever they want to be. Yet do we really show them a way, help them follow through on a dream, a passion?
Deyona and Jamar Kirk have responded. Their ownership of Ma and Pop’s Fourth Street Market makes my case. Your September article does well to applaud their labor to meet a need. I wholeheartedly support them as the community does -- with my patronage as well as my words.
So, with sadness we say goodbye to Melissa Grimes, and with hope we extend a heartfelt welcome to Deyona and Jamar. And we thank all of these people for modeling a belief in possibilities.
I look forward to reading more about neighbors like Melissa, Deyona, and Jamar in the Hillsider. All are to be respected and emulated, and dare we expect that they mentor other “possibilities” to live out a “passion”?
The fact is: we can all “give back to the community”, to quote Melissa, in so many supportive ways. We can start with a challenging K-12 education and on through institutions of higher learning.
The real challenge is to aid in discovering and promoting possibilities, passions and assist in making these live, most particularly for people of color.
Sincerely, Sarah L Chambers
Caption: Jill Isola Johnson, LHB Interior Designer and Sharon Murphy, general manger of Whole Foods Co-op.Whole Foods Co-op attains LEED (Green) certification
Whole Foods Co-op not only stocks its shelves with healthy, organic food, its building is good for people and the environment also.
Whole Foods Co-op attained certification by the United States Green Building Councils’ Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) It is the first LEED certified building in Duluth, an the third LEED certified building in the state of Minnesota.
Mayor Bergson spoke at the press conference Wed., Oct. 18, The event was held in the community classroom, which is in the basement of the Whole Foods Co-op. “You could have built in a lot of other places and you could have saved a lot of money,” he told the staff and board of the Whole Foods Co-op about their decision to build a “green building.”
The mayor spoke of other green building ideas planned in Duluth which include buildings at the University of Minnesota, Duluth and the DECC. “All of those projects could make us the leader in ecology. I’m proud to be the mayor of an ecomunicpality,” he said.
A certain number of points had to be attained for certification. Points could be gained from these attributes: reusing the site of a former business versus building new, using salvaged materials and equipment versus discarding them, choosing new materials that are long lasting and regional, using galvanized and stainless steel inside and outside, which is long-lasting and requires minimal maintenance, using recycled fiber cement board, rather than strictly plywood, using sheet flooring and countertops made of linoleum, which is made of natural raw materials, using cabinets made of wheat board ,a and annually renewable agricultural material, and using recycled ceramic tile.
After the presentation of the LEED seal (or certificate) the Hillsider toured the Co-op with manager Sharon Murphy and Common Ground representative Jodi Slick. Highlights of this tour included: beams of wood in the entrance were taken from the bottom of the harbor at Ashland, Wisc., flooring which was made of recycled rubber tires, windows which reflect light off the top of the produce cases, counter tops made from pressed sunflower seeds, linoleum which is made of linseed oil, solar panels, tables in the eating room made of old money, special refrigerated case (with no doors which suck the cold air out when opened and can be stocked in the back), and a retaining wall for the hill. The Co-op shares its parking lot with another co-op, the Members Cooperative Credit Union.The offices of the Co-op are in the basement. It includes bike racks for employees to hang up their bikes, a shower and a copier in it own separate room to reduce VOC (Volatile Organic Chemicals.)
Caption:
Debbie Isabell Nelson at her office at NHS
Isabell Nelson will implement neighborhood revitalziation plans and community outreach at NHS
Debbie Isabell Nelson has been hired as Neighborhood Coordinator at Neighborhood Housing of Duluth, 224 E. 4th St. Debbie will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of neighborhood revitalization plans and community outreach.
Debbie has lived in Duluth all her life. She grew up in Lincoln Park and is a 29 year resident of Morgan Park. Forty years ago, at age 13, she was the president of a Harrison Community Club’s teen board, so community activism has always been an important part of her life.
Debbie will work with neighborhood groups to help communities identify what is needed to revitalize. She said actual residents of communities are best suited to help identify what changes are needed in a community, but often don’t know where to start. Other organizations are helpful in star up of revitalization. Nelson said, “I believe in renovating. Duluth’s housing stock is beautiful. We need to maintain the history of the neighborhood.” Nelson has also volunteered on the Duluth Comprehensive plan.
In some neighborhoods form letters are sent out to residents and landlords of problem properties. Nelson is hoping that this action can be used in other neighborhoods also.
Nelson is working with the community clubs to spur residents and send a message to the city that community policing needs to be fully funded. (See previous entry in the blog.)
Nelson owned and operated Debbie’s Day Care in Morgan Park from 1983 to 2003. She cared for over 170 children during her tenure, while raising her two sons as a single parent. She is a 1970 graduate of Denfield High School.
Earlier this year members of the Morgan Park Community Club nominated her for the Duluth Hall of Fame award. Even though she didn’t receive the award, she was honored by the nomination. Here are two excerpted paragraphs from the nomination letter.
Anyone who knows Debbie and has spent any time around her knows some of her history—taking on and beating the city about her sewage floods, being a catalyst in the city’s decision to move ahead with the MP sewer project AND to keep it funded with CDBG dollars.—her leadership in bringing together diverse groups in pursuit of consensus for the Beautification Project, her creativity in getting all of the age groups in Morgan Park, the seniors, the family people and the youth (especially the youth) involved in this project. Add to that the building of bridges and encouraging cooperation between the homeowners, landlords and renters, and her enthusiasm comes shining through.
The other thing that comes through so very clearly is her ability to visualize and conceptualize what the future should look like, and probably MOST importantly the ability to communicate that vision to the people around her, as well as making them believe in that vision and wanting to make the changes it will take.
Nelson’s family includes her husband Carl, two sons and daughter-in-laws - Peter & Diane and Joshua & Maureen, 3 step kids - Kate, Eric & Scott, along with 4 grandchildren, Ali, Lydia, AJ and Karou, with one more due in October. Visit the Neighborhood Housing Services website at www.nhsduluth.org or phone them at 218-727-8604.
Citizen Action for Community Policing
As a group of concerned citizens from across the City we have decided to send a loud, clear, broadbased message to our Administration that we believe in the power of Community Policing, and we want to see it fully funded and fully staffed. You can help!
Please mark your calendar: to do the following on these dates - November 1, 2 & 3: Write a letter to the editor, send an email, or make a phone call to the contacts below. Tell them why you believe in the power of Community Policing to help combat crime in our neighborhoods. On Monday November 6 at 7:00: Attend the City Council meeting to voice your support. City Hall room 330. On Tuesday, November 14 at 6:30: Attend the CIty Wide Meeting on Crime at Holy Family Parish,2430 W 3rd St..
Send Emails to:council@ci.duluth.mn.us - Your email will go to the Mayor & Councilors. City Clerk's Phone the city clerk’s office at 730-5740, or send individual messages to Councilors using first initial, last name & ci.duluth.mn.us EX: ggilbert@ci.duluth.mn.us Also contact mayor and the acting police of chief- hbergson@ci.duluth.mn.us Mayor Herb Bergson 730-5230 and thanson@ci.duluth.mn.us Acting Police Chief Tim Hanson
Letters to Mayor & Council: Letters will be copied & distributed
Duluth City Council, 330 City Hall
411 West 1st Street
Duluth, MN 55802
Letters to the Editor - DNT More info below
letters@duluthnews.com
Thanks for your help!!
Debbie Isabell Nelson Mona Cheslak
NHS Duluth (h) 724-1193
727-8604 ext 12
Cell: 260-8045
On behalf of Community Leaders from across our City!
If everyone of us does one thing...and encourages those in our neighborhoods to do one thing.... We can make a huge impact on the whole City of Duluth!!
Send letter to Duluth News Tribune welcomes letters from readers. Send us your views:424 W. First St.Duluth, MN 55802 Fax: 218-720-4120E-mail: letters@duluthnews.comPlease include your name, address and phone number so we may contact you to verify your letter. Only your name and city will be published. Letters should be 300 words or less and exclusive to the News Tribune. We also will consider exclusive Local View columns of up to 750 words. The columns must reflect greater knowledge of the subject than letters. We edit letters and columns for newspaper style, space, accuracy and civility. To allow a variety of letter writers to appear, no individual may be published more than once every 30 days.
As a group of concerned citizens from across the City we have decided to send a loud, clear, broadbased message to our Administration that we believe in the power of Community Policing, and we want to see it fully funded and fully staffed. You can help!
Please mark your calendar: to do the following on these dates - November 1, 2 & 3: Write a letter to the editor, send an email, or make a phone call to the contacts below. Tell them why you believe in the power of Community Policing to help combat crime in our neighborhoods. On Monday November 6 at 7:00: Attend the City Council meeting to voice your support. City Hall room 330. On Tuesday, November 14 at 6:30: Attend the CIty Wide Meeting on Crime at Holy Family Parish,2430 W 3rd St..
Send Emails to:council@ci.duluth.mn.us - Your email will go to the Mayor & Councilors. City Clerk's Phone the city clerk’s office at 730-5740, or send individual messages to Councilors using first initial, last name & ci.duluth.mn.us EX: ggilbert@ci.duluth.mn.us Also contact mayor and the acting police of chief- hbergson@ci.duluth.mn.us Mayor Herb Bergson 730-5230 and thanson@ci.duluth.mn.us Acting Police Chief Tim Hanson
Letters to Mayor & Council: Letters will be copied & distributed
Duluth City Council, 330 City Hall
411 West 1st Street
Duluth, MN 55802
Letters to the Editor - DNT More info below
letters@duluthnews.com
Thanks for your help!!
Debbie Isabell Nelson Mona Cheslak
NHS Duluth (h) 724-1193
727-8604 ext 12
Cell: 260-8045
On behalf of Community Leaders from across our City!
If everyone of us does one thing...and encourages those in our neighborhoods to do one thing.... We can make a huge impact on the whole City of Duluth!!
Send letter to Duluth News Tribune welcomes letters from readers. Send us your views:424 W. First St.Duluth, MN 55802 Fax: 218-720-4120E-mail: letters@duluthnews.comPlease include your name, address and phone number so we may contact you to verify your letter. Only your name and city will be published. Letters should be 300 words or less and exclusive to the News Tribune. We also will consider exclusive Local View columns of up to 750 words. The columns must reflect greater knowledge of the subject than letters. We edit letters and columns for newspaper style, space, accuracy and civility. To allow a variety of letter writers to appear, no individual may be published more than once every 30 days.
Abondoned property expert shares some solutions with Duluth
No one person really knows how many abandoned properties are in Duluth. Joe Schilling guesses that there are about 2,000 abandoned and vacant properties in Duluth. “The good news,” he said, “Is that they are scattered. What is really great is that you are talking about this issue now.” Schilling is a Professor in Practice at Virginia Tech’s Metropolitan Institute and Director of Research and Policy for the National Vacant Properties Campaign.
If governmental departments share information with each other, Duluth has a good chance of stopping the spread of vacant and abandoned properties into whole blocks. “It is really critical to get the information. Information is power,” said Schilling.
Schilling spoke to a group of concerned Duluth residents at the Central Hillside Community Center on Wed., Sept. 27. He and Dan Kildee, also of the National Vacant Properties Campaign, had spent the day before touring Duluth with Ben Small and Kim Crawford of CHUM Gabriel Project, an initiative to work on issues of poverty.
Schilling and Kildee met with Duluth LISC (Local Initiative Support Corporation), the City of Duluth, St. Louis County, Churches United in Ministry, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Duluth, Northern Communities Land Trust, and other nonprofit partners and neighborhood residents to develop effective solutions to the problems of property abandonment. Kildee is the treasurer of Genesee County (Michigan). Flint is a city in Genesee County, which lost 80,000 people. There are blocks of abandoned houses. Duluth does not have a situation as bad.
Schilling said that Duluth was on the cusp of turning worse or getting better. He felt that Duluth had the ingredients to turn the abandoned housing situation around and was in a better position than some of the other cities he has worked with. Those cities include: Philadelphia, Pa, Flint, Mich., San Diego, Calif., and Tucson, Ariz. and Louisville, Ky.
Schilling listed five essential ingredients needed to fight the spread of abandoned property: community catalysts and urban pioneers, leadership and vision, variety of strategies and tolls, systematic program management and convergence and coming together. He told the group of about 15 community members at the meeting, “Congratulations! You guys are doing wonderful work.” He went on to say, “We’ve been really impressed.”
Schilling showed the group a slide show, which explained the continuum from green to brown of vacant properties. Brownfield’s are industrial areas, which have been abandoned due to environmental pollution. Greyfields are business districts, like shopping malls, which have been abandoned.
The broken window theory is one of the main reasons why communities want to prevent abandoned property. Once an area is known as abandoned, windows become broken and it becomes a haven for crime and drugs, fire and a public hazard.
If communities have a policy in place to deal with abandoned property, then when a vacant property pops up, the staff of a city or governmental department knows how to deal with it. Sometimes different departments may be aware that a building is abandoned, but there is no communicating between the departments. For example, the water department may be aware that no water has been used, the city assessor’s office knows that the taxes haven’t been paid in years, and the police or fire department have been dealing with the building, but no one agency has taken the initiative to do anything about it because they are not sharing information together.
Some cities have started ecology and housing courts. For example, two days a week judges who are used to dealing with abandoned and vacant properties listen to cases. The fees from the civil penalties are paid to the city, which can in turn use them to fund prevention programs.
Action steps Schilling suggested included: adopting and administrating a rental inspection, registration of vacant property ordinance, creating a vacant property coordinator, education and training on how to be a better landlord, and reform of existing building and zoning codes.” You don’t need to go to St. Paul,” he said, referring that cities in Minnesota have the power to enact their own codes.
An effective method in some towns has been a “shaming sign.” A huge sign is posted on the vacant property listing the owner of the property and the code violations. Sometimes the press is called as the sign is being posted. Schilling said the shaming signs have been effective. Within few days of the signs’ posting, the violations have been remedied. There are other ways of shaming people. He talked of a doctor who owned abandoned properties, people stood on the sidewalk in front of his practice and said, “Dr. Jones is a slumlord here is a photo of his property.”
In a separate interview, Pam Kramer, Senior Program Director of Duluth LISC said, “What I am excited about is the opportunity to work together on a comprehensive approach. I was very impressed with the level of commitment (by governmental officials) to work on the issue of blighted property and vacant land.
(Duluth LISC secured $15,000 in federal Department of Housing and Urban Development funds from national LISC to provide technical assistance to address this issue. In addition to this technical assistance visit, a series of “virtual brown bag” training sessions and other consultation will be provided. The National Vacant Properties Campaign is a collaboration of four leading national organizations: Smart Growth America, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, the International City/County Management Association, and the Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech.)
Caption: Teens have fun at the Encounter
Teenagers and Skateboards are welcome at Encoutner in downtown Duluth
Five years ago Youth for Christ’s youth pastor’s network sat down, thought and dreamed about a youth center that could reach thousands of young people. For the first time since that meeting, the Encounter vision is complete! Every potential program and ministry we said we wanted to have to effectively reach teenagers is now in place at the Encounter. For these reasons and more, we are excited about the upcoming season here.
The Skate Park is open this fall five days a week. It’s the only indoor skate park in the area with a large variety of ramps, rails, stairs and boxes. Skaters from all backgrounds and abilities have the opportunity to improve their skills, learn new tricks, or try the sport for the very first time in a fun, safe and active environment.
Skate Church is a free night of skating, dinner, and a message aimed at the skateboarding youth. A new addition to the Encounter’s skate program is the traveling skate park. We have a complete portable skate park that we can move from location to location. The traveling skate park and indoor skate park create a year round skate ministry bringing truth and hope to this group of young people.
The Red Room as one of the last pieces of the Encounter’s ministry puzzle provides us with yet another tool to reach a completely different sub-culture of young people. The Red Room is unique in that it is one of our areas only music venues that caters to young people. We have many local bands that have begun to perform at the Red Room & love it. Open mic, a pool table and coffee bar are also available for some extra fun. The Red Room is quickly becoming the place to be for music lovers!
In addition, the Red Room will be home to our popular Girls Night. Thursday nights from 6-9 p.m., girls of all ages are invited to come and participate in activities just for girls. Such as - hanging out, long talks, baking, nature walks, movie nights, open mic nights, and of course-manicures!
One of the programs we are most excited about this year is the return of junior and senior high school open gym nights. On Friday and Saturday evenings youth are welcome to come and join in on a variety of gym sports. Basketball, volleyball, dodge ball, and floor hockey are just some of the activities. Sunday night in the gym will host a complementary program to our very popular skate church. “Half Time” will run every Sunday night from 4-8 p.m.. It will be a free night of sports, food and of course a great message for the participants.
Here are some additional ministries at the Encounter’s this year:
Drama Night- every Tuesday night those with or without dramatic experience are welcome to learn the skill of improvisation comedy.
Night Life - our college age program will meet on Thursday nights this year. Anyone 18 and over is encouraged to participate in this evening, complete with at least one themed athletic activity.
The pool hall and the coffee bar will also be open for the entirety of the evening. Most importantly, there will be a young adult Bible study time and discussion during the night each week.
Snowboard in the City- This is a new program that will start this winter at the Encounter. Snow-boarders of all ages will be able to snowboard at a variety of places in the city, including riding the hill right outside of the Encounter.
Youth Church – A once a month opportunity for youth to gather together to praise God together with others their own age. They will have experience a worship setting geared specifically to them. Also, there will be a message of hope that is sure to inspire.
Noon Ball- Noon basketball returns as a time for area guys to come and play some ball.
Quest- Two discipleship programs which originated at the Encounter Many youth from around the area are visiting the Encounter daily, because whatever the interest is, we definitely have a program to explore and grow that interest. Moreover, there are many welcoming staff members who are building lasting mentorships and friendships with our youth every day.
We are successful in part to the overwhelming support we receive from the community. Thank you for your continuing encouragement as we continue to uplift the next generation.
Rev. Robert C. Franck to be installed as Senior Pastor at Mr. Olive Lutheran Church on Nov. 12
Rev. Robert C. Franck will be installed as the Senior Pastor of Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 2012 East Superior Street, on Sunday, November 12, at 4:00 p.m. The Rev. Donald Fondow, the District President of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Minnesota-North District, will be preaching and presiding at the service. Other local LCMS clergy will also be participating. Members of the surrounding community are cordially invited to attend.
Pastor Franck has served Mount Olive and local colleges and universities for the past 11 ½ years as Associate and Campus Pastor, a position that is being phased out while LCMS campus ministry in Duluth is being restructured. The Senior Pastor position will include a 10% commitment to campus ministry. Other support for campus ministry is being investigated.
Rev. Franck is married to Gayle, and they have seven children ages 2-17. He graduated from Valparaiso University in Indiana with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, and graduated from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1991. Prior to moving to Duluth, he served a congregation in northwest Arkansas for four years.
The Hillside's Hidden Streams: Brewery Creek
A story told to and recorded by Nancy Nelson
I am Brewery Creek. I’ve lived on Duluth’s hillside for thousands of years, a lot longer than any of you folks have been here. I’ve carried lots of water down the hill to Lake Superior, and I’ve seen lots of changes over the years.
My territory includes a little more than a square mile. My western branch starts up by Central Entrance, in a little wetland behind Taco John’s. I flow past the Marshall School, where my smaller eastern branch joins in. After I cross under Rice Lake Road by the MNDOT office the real fun begins as I race down the steepest part of the hill. The street you call Sixth Avenue East used to be my ravine. These days I disappear from view near the UDAC building, but you can see me again at the lakeshore just below Sir Ben’s.
I had this place pretty much to myself for a long time, flowing free all the way from the heights to Lake Superior. Then around 150 years ago people started cutting down trees, making streets, and putting up buildings all over the hillside.
For a while these folks found me useful. Back in about 1859 Duluth’s first brewery was built on my western bank between Seventh and Eighth Avenue East, just above what is now the “freeway.” The brewery used my water for making beer, so folks started calling me Brewery Creek.
About 20 years later, there was a big rain storm, and I had to move a lot of water down the hill really fast. I was just doing my job, but I got a little carried away and washed out a piece of the hill under the brewery. Part of the building fell down and lots of beer got spilled. Mr. Fink, who ran the brewery, wasn’t very happy about it, so he decided to build a new place down on the lakeshore. He sold that building a few years later to two men – Mr. Fitger and Mr. Anneke. I hear they still make beer there, although they don’t use my water anymore.
Back in those days nobody had cars. Most things were moved around in carriages that were pulled by horses and mules. It was pretty hard for them to cross me, so bridges were built on some of the streets. As I remember it, there was a bridge on East Sixth Street and another one on East Tenth Street. I didn’t mind the bridges because I could still see the daylight and talk to all the critters that came to visit me. But from East Fifth Street on down the hill to Superior Street, the engineers decided to cover me up completely so they could just build streets and not worry about bridges. They put me in big brick and concrete tunnels and covered the tunnels with dirt. Goodbye daylight!
It got even worse when people started driving cars. They got annoyed when they couldn’t cross me at the streets that didn’t have bridges. I was in the way of progress, so the engineers kept working. During the early 1900s they built more tunnels, which got longer and longer. Piece by piece, they put me in the tunnels and covered me up. By the end of the 1920s I was in the dark most of the way from Tenth Street to the lake. Eventually the folks living in the hillside forgot all about me because they couldn’t see me. Some folks even built houses and gas stations right on top of me!Well, even though you don’t see me any more, I still do my job of carrying water to Lake Superior.
I have more stories to tell, like all the fun I had in 1972 when three big storms came through the hillside. But I hear there’s some rain coming, so I’d better get back to work now. I’ll tell you more next time!
Nettleton Awarded for High Academic Performance
Nettleton Magnet Elementary School was recognized with the prestigious Minnesota’s Future Award for high academic performance by the Minnesota Business Partnership.
Nettleton was the only school chosen for this award in the state of Minnesota. The Minnesota Business Partnership is a nonprofit group of 100 CEO’s leading the state’s largest employers.
Nettleton’s Principal, Stephanie Heilig; Assistant Principal, Kathi Kusch Marshall; and a group of dedicated staff members traveled to Minneapolis to the Minnesota Business Partnership Annual Dinner to accept this important award. The event was attended by many noteworthy Minnesota business leaders, community leaders, local Minneapolis/St. Paul media, and Governor Pawlenty.
The percentage of Nettleton 3rd and 5th graders performing at or above grade level in reading and math from 2003 through 2005 was comparable to the statewide average. Nettleton focuses on reading.
With the help of a “Reading First” grant implemented in partnership with the University of Minnesota, Nettleton teachers learned and embedded effective reading practices into all subjects. Rather than rely on remediation to help struggling readers, Nettleton increased academic rigor and expectations, then provided additional support during and after school for students. “In many ways, we follow the pattern of successful businesses: We know our market, we base or decisions upon the latest research and best practices,” said Nettleton Principal Stephanie Heilig
Nettleton Magnet Elementary School was recognized with the prestigious Minnesota’s Future Award for high academic performance by the Minnesota Business Partnership.
Nettleton was the only school chosen for this award in the state of Minnesota. The Minnesota Business Partnership is a nonprofit group of 100 CEO’s leading the state’s largest employers.
Nettleton’s Principal, Stephanie Heilig; Assistant Principal, Kathi Kusch Marshall; and a group of dedicated staff members traveled to Minneapolis to the Minnesota Business Partnership Annual Dinner to accept this important award. The event was attended by many noteworthy Minnesota business leaders, community leaders, local Minneapolis/St. Paul media, and Governor Pawlenty.
The percentage of Nettleton 3rd and 5th graders performing at or above grade level in reading and math from 2003 through 2005 was comparable to the statewide average. Nettleton focuses on reading.
With the help of a “Reading First” grant implemented in partnership with the University of Minnesota, Nettleton teachers learned and embedded effective reading practices into all subjects. Rather than rely on remediation to help struggling readers, Nettleton increased academic rigor and expectations, then provided additional support during and after school for students. “In many ways, we follow the pattern of successful businesses: We know our market, we base or decisions upon the latest research and best practices,” said Nettleton Principal Stephanie Heilig
Neighborhood involvement helps solve crime
Photo captions: Stg. Dan Boese and Information Technician Phyllis Manurich
The best way to curtail crime is to be aware of your surroundings. Keep your doors locked, both vehicle doors and outside home doors. And if something makes you feel uncomfortable, phone 911. You have the right to feel at ease in your own home.
This was the advice given to neighbors who attended and East Hillside Neighborhood meeting with the police in September.
One resident of the neighborhood said, “I feel odd calling 911.” Sgt. Dan Boese said, “It is a quality of life issue. If you don’t feel comfortable in your home…call.” He went on to say that the police can sometimes piece events together to solve or curtail crime when the public phones about suspicious activity.
This meeting took place at the Grant Recreation Center, 901 E. Eleventh Street on Tues., Sept. 26. Fourteen community members visited with four police officers and Information Technician, Phyllis Marnuich. The officers included: Lt. Mike Tusken, Sgt. Dan Boese, Sgt. Steve Stracek and Officer Jeremy Graves.
In the past couple of months residents’ homes have been robbed while they were at home with their doors unlocked. Also, if your car is unlocked it is so much easier to steal something out of the car, or search around inside the car for an extra key.
Community members visited with the police and talked about what they could do to ensure cooperation between residents whether they are homeowners or renters. One landlord was present. He spoke of his concern of keeping good tenants.
Central Hillside Police to help with Block Clubs
Lt. Gordon Ramsay talking to neighbors at the Central Hillside Community Center.
Lt. Gordon Ramsay told a group of about 50 neighbors at the Central Hillside Community Center that police and residents will now meet monthly for the next few months. The purpose of the meeting was to see how the police and residents can work together on crime and safety issues in the neighborhood.
Ramsay will also work to implement block clubs. Neighbors would meet with the police to identify problems in their specific blocks. Each block might have unique issues. Junk cars might be an issue for one block, while a gang of rough kids would be an issue for a different block. Police would literally walk around the neighborhood with the residents to identify these concerns.
The block clubs give a formal identity. “It gives a block a little more power with city government,” said Ramsay. Other issues of concern might be lighting, streets, and parking. Block clubs would go beyond just dealing with crime after the fact. It would be taking a proactive stance.
Ramsey told the Central Hillside group that the burglar who was responsible for approximately 30 to 40 robberies this summer, many of them while residents were home, had been arrested and was now in jail.
Central Hillside is constantly fighting an image that it is dangerous, but it is not said Ramsey. He said it is more densely populated and therefore there are more calls of disturbances of the peace. Nationwide robberies were high this summer; Duluth was no different.
As far as personal safety goes, the Central Hillside is no more dangerous than other neighorhood as densely populated. Most violent crime is between people who know each other.
According to Ramsey, James Redd, owner of the Hip Hop Candy Shop, 105 W. 4th St., where shots were fired in October, has closed up his shop and left town. Ramsey said Redd was charged with drug sales and there is a warrant out for his arrest.” We were pleased to see him go, but we would like to find him . . .(and serve the warrant,)” said Ramsay.
“Don’t ever hesitate to call 911,” said Ramsay. “We’d rather find out it is a neighbor house-sitting. …(than something more serious.)” Ramsey said phone calls of suspicious activity are how the police solve crimes, which was the case in catching the burglar responsible for 30 to 40 incidents this summer.
The police are trying to work more closely with the building inspection department and landlords to prevent nuisance properties. Police are working with landlords to help them learn to how do background checks. This is available free of charge through St. Louis County.
Ramsay said a small group is causing problems for the majority of people. Between 5,000 and 10,000 people live in the Central Hillside; and 20,000 work in the Central Hillside. “Our problem people are the same 50 people.” He said that Central Hillside cops get to know these people so well that they know their full names, social security numbers and birth date. The problem is the judicial system puts these people back out on the streets making a revolving door. Criminals are cited and arrested but the consequences are not serious enough to prevent people from committing the crime again. Neighbors who show up at sentences and read victim impact statements are helping to put criminals behind bars.
Next month George Garnett of Neighborhood Housing Services will speak about what the Lincoln Park Neighborhood is doing to crack down on abandoned houses, illegal garbage dumping, and crime and drug activity.Hopefully the Central Hillside neighborhood can learn from Lincoln Park.
Lt. Gordon Ramsay talking to neighbors at the Central Hillside Community Center.
A Central Hillside resident asks a question.
Lt. Gordon Ramsay told a group of about 50 neighbors at the Central Hillside Community Center that police and residents will now meet monthly for the next few months. The purpose of the meeting was to see how the police and residents can work together on crime and safety issues in the neighborhood.
Ramsay will also work to implement block clubs. Neighbors would meet with the police to identify problems in their specific blocks. Each block might have unique issues. Junk cars might be an issue for one block, while a gang of rough kids would be an issue for a different block. Police would literally walk around the neighborhood with the residents to identify these concerns.
The block clubs give a formal identity. “It gives a block a little more power with city government,” said Ramsay. Other issues of concern might be lighting, streets, and parking. Block clubs would go beyond just dealing with crime after the fact. It would be taking a proactive stance.
Ramsey told the Central Hillside group that the burglar who was responsible for approximately 30 to 40 robberies this summer, many of them while residents were home, had been arrested and was now in jail.
Central Hillside is constantly fighting an image that it is dangerous, but it is not said Ramsey. He said it is more densely populated and therefore there are more calls of disturbances of the peace. Nationwide robberies were high this summer; Duluth was no different.
As far as personal safety goes, the Central Hillside is no more dangerous than other neighorhood as densely populated. Most violent crime is between people who know each other.
According to Ramsey, James Redd, owner of the Hip Hop Candy Shop, 105 W. 4th St., where shots were fired in October, has closed up his shop and left town. Ramsey said Redd was charged with drug sales and there is a warrant out for his arrest.” We were pleased to see him go, but we would like to find him . . .(and serve the warrant,)” said Ramsay.
“Don’t ever hesitate to call 911,” said Ramsay. “We’d rather find out it is a neighbor house-sitting. …(than something more serious.)” Ramsey said phone calls of suspicious activity are how the police solve crimes, which was the case in catching the burglar responsible for 30 to 40 incidents this summer.
The police are trying to work more closely with the building inspection department and landlords to prevent nuisance properties. Police are working with landlords to help them learn to how do background checks. This is available free of charge through St. Louis County.
Ramsay said a small group is causing problems for the majority of people. Between 5,000 and 10,000 people live in the Central Hillside; and 20,000 work in the Central Hillside. “Our problem people are the same 50 people.” He said that Central Hillside cops get to know these people so well that they know their full names, social security numbers and birth date. The problem is the judicial system puts these people back out on the streets making a revolving door. Criminals are cited and arrested but the consequences are not serious enough to prevent people from committing the crime again. Neighbors who show up at sentences and read victim impact statements are helping to put criminals behind bars.
Next month George Garnett of Neighborhood Housing Services will speak about what the Lincoln Park Neighborhood is doing to crack down on abandoned houses, illegal garbage dumping, and crime and drug activity.Hopefully the Central Hillside neighborhood can learn from Lincoln Park.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Common Cents: The Money Class is a series of four classes that will meet on the following Tuesdays: November 7, 14, 21, 28 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at Community Action Duluth -19 North 21 Avenue West. Pizza and child care will be provided. The class is free, however the class size is limited. To register for the class, call 726-1665.
Community Action Duluth offers classes designed to help people get out of debt, improve their credit, save money for the future, get ready for homeownership, learn the basics of investing, avoid predatory lending and become financially smart.
Community Action Duluth offers classes designed to help people get out of debt, improve their credit, save money for the future, get ready for homeownership, learn the basics of investing, avoid predatory lending and become financially smart.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
With your help, Hillsider makes progress
On behalf of The Hillsider Board of Directors, I am pleased to report that we continue to make progress in our service to the community through the newspaper you are holding. We are not "out of the woods" yet, but our position has become stronger with each of the three issues that Editor Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff has produced since June.
First, the board wishes to commend Naomi for her hard work, patience, sense of humor and flexibility. Naomi has done a great job. Her gifts as a photographer and writer are evident everywhere in this and previous issues. Naomi has done much to establish and build relationships within the community -- and she is always on the move finding stories and photos, meeting with advertisers, and connecting with the heartbeart of the Hillside.
Naomi has also been persistent in her efforts to develop her graphic design skills and master the complexities of desktop publishing software. One of the reasons we are only running a 12-page issue this month is to reduce some of the stress on Naomi as she takes larger responsibility for graphic design and layout. When you have a chance please give Naomi a word of encouragement and thanks.
Second, the board thanks the many advertisers in our neighborhoods who have been supporting The Hillsider with their business. A number of these advertisers have shown their trust in us by making advance payments on their ads, allowing us to print The Hillsider. We are deeply appreciative of that trust and working very hard to deepen that trust.
The financial position of The Hillsider is steadily improving thanks to the confidence and support of our advertisers. As this improved position translates into a growing operating reserve fund, we will be able to expand coverage of the community, increase our size, and explore the possibility of adding color.
Right now, one of our bigger challenge is translating our advertising sales into cash flow in order to build our bank account. Moving to a monthly publication schedule means that there is a shorter billing and payment cycle (which I handle).
I have a "day job" with a nonprofit organization and I know firsthand the challenges of paying the bills in as timely a manner as possible. It is from this position that I appreciate the challenges our advertisers face in the area of cash flow.
With this said, Advertiser Friends, whatever you can do during the next few months to keep your Hillsider accounts current will help us better serve our community. Thanks!
Another thing advertisers can do to help us is to provide "press ready" advertising in the proper size. Naomi will communicate with you about this. Providing advertising in this manner will really help this lean organization. It is worth noting that we have only one (under)paid part-time position (Naomi), five volunteer board members (all working full-time in some capacity), and a modest number of contributors/helpers.
By the way, we continue to need additional board members and volunteers -- growth in these areas will have a major influence on the Hillsider’s direction. Please contact Naomi or any board member to join with our efforts.
Third, the board wants to thank our readers. The last two issues have each had a couple of letters to the editor -- and this reflects that the paper is both being read as well as sparking reflection and conversation. To the best of my knowledge, this is the most letters to the editor in two consecutive Hillsiders that we have ever had. Feel free to send letters to the editor to The Hillsider. This is your paper and your forum for learning about and speaking about what is important to you in our neighborhoods. Letters are a priority to print!
Finally, a word of thanks to PrintCorp which prints The Hillsider each month. PrintCorp has been a great business to work with, helping us identify and address technical aspects of the printing process. We deeply appreciate their patience, flexibility and helpfulness.
On behalf of the Hillsider Board of Directors,
--David Clanaugh, Hillsider Treasurer
On behalf of The Hillsider Board of Directors, I am pleased to report that we continue to make progress in our service to the community through the newspaper you are holding. We are not "out of the woods" yet, but our position has become stronger with each of the three issues that Editor Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff has produced since June.
First, the board wishes to commend Naomi for her hard work, patience, sense of humor and flexibility. Naomi has done a great job. Her gifts as a photographer and writer are evident everywhere in this and previous issues. Naomi has done much to establish and build relationships within the community -- and she is always on the move finding stories and photos, meeting with advertisers, and connecting with the heartbeart of the Hillside.
Naomi has also been persistent in her efforts to develop her graphic design skills and master the complexities of desktop publishing software. One of the reasons we are only running a 12-page issue this month is to reduce some of the stress on Naomi as she takes larger responsibility for graphic design and layout. When you have a chance please give Naomi a word of encouragement and thanks.
Second, the board thanks the many advertisers in our neighborhoods who have been supporting The Hillsider with their business. A number of these advertisers have shown their trust in us by making advance payments on their ads, allowing us to print The Hillsider. We are deeply appreciative of that trust and working very hard to deepen that trust.
The financial position of The Hillsider is steadily improving thanks to the confidence and support of our advertisers. As this improved position translates into a growing operating reserve fund, we will be able to expand coverage of the community, increase our size, and explore the possibility of adding color.
Right now, one of our bigger challenge is translating our advertising sales into cash flow in order to build our bank account. Moving to a monthly publication schedule means that there is a shorter billing and payment cycle (which I handle).
I have a "day job" with a nonprofit organization and I know firsthand the challenges of paying the bills in as timely a manner as possible. It is from this position that I appreciate the challenges our advertisers face in the area of cash flow.
With this said, Advertiser Friends, whatever you can do during the next few months to keep your Hillsider accounts current will help us better serve our community. Thanks!
Another thing advertisers can do to help us is to provide "press ready" advertising in the proper size. Naomi will communicate with you about this. Providing advertising in this manner will really help this lean organization. It is worth noting that we have only one (under)paid part-time position (Naomi), five volunteer board members (all working full-time in some capacity), and a modest number of contributors/helpers.
By the way, we continue to need additional board members and volunteers -- growth in these areas will have a major influence on the Hillsider’s direction. Please contact Naomi or any board member to join with our efforts.
Third, the board wants to thank our readers. The last two issues have each had a couple of letters to the editor -- and this reflects that the paper is both being read as well as sparking reflection and conversation. To the best of my knowledge, this is the most letters to the editor in two consecutive Hillsiders that we have ever had. Feel free to send letters to the editor to The Hillsider. This is your paper and your forum for learning about and speaking about what is important to you in our neighborhoods. Letters are a priority to print!
Finally, a word of thanks to PrintCorp which prints The Hillsider each month. PrintCorp has been a great business to work with, helping us identify and address technical aspects of the printing process. We deeply appreciate their patience, flexibility and helpfulness.
On behalf of the Hillsider Board of Directors,
--David Clanaugh, Hillsider Treasurer
Monday, October 09, 2006
Photo Caption: Tim Weber and Jacquelyn Schneider in the living room of their East Hillside, three-bedroom home.
“New Baby, New Home:” Couple Purchases First Home
Submitted by LISC
Tim Weber and Jacquelyn Schneider are excited about owning their own home. “It has always been our dream to own our own home, especially since we will soon have a new baby,” said Jacquelyn. “It’s also great not to have to continue to pay high rent every month,” added Tim.
Tim heard about the “Hillside Homeownership Incentive Program” (HHIP) at St. Luke’s where he works. Through this program, he and Jacquelyn received a $2,000 grant to help them with downpayment and closing costs. “Without this grant, it would have taken us many more years to save enough money to buy a home,” said Jacquelyn.
Tim and Jacqueline participated in the Hillside Homeownership Incentive Program, an employer-assisted program of the “At Home in Duluth” partnership. Because of the generosity of seven Duluth employers, owning a home in the Central Hillside, East Hillside or Endion neighborhoods has become a reality for their employees.
HHIP is a partnership among local employers, Duluth Local Initiatives Support Corporation (Duluth LISC), Neighborhood Housing Services of Duluth (NHS Duluth), and the Greater Minnesota Housing Fund (GMHF). Current employers are Miller-Dwan Medical Center, North Shore Bank of Commerce, Northland Foundation, SMDC Health System, St. Luke’s, U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo Bank.
To date, 108 families have become homeowners in the Central and East Hillside neighborhoods.
Here’s how the program works:
Employees interested in purchasing a home in the Hillside neighborhood contact NHS Duluth at 727-8604 to discuss participating in the Hillside Homeownership Incentive Program. NHS verifies that grant funds are available, and HHIP participants are required to complete the NHS homebuyer education course. NHS also links them to money management education and other sources of purchase and rehabilitation funding.
There are no income limits for the employer-funded $2,000 grant. In addition to the $2,000 grant, families may qualify (based on income and family size) for an additional $2,000 in funds provided by Duluth LISC and GMHF.
“We learned a lot during the homebuyer course,” said Tim. “Kris Monson [who teaches the class at NHS] shared many good ideas about how to find a home, what to look for, and what to watch out for,” added Jacquelyn.
There is a similar program for employees who wish to live in the Lincoln Park neighborhood: Homeownership Program for Employees in Lincoln Park. The process is the same: interested employees contact NHS at 727-8604.
The “At Home in Duluth” partnership continues to look for employers who understand the value of providing this homeownership benefit to their employees who would like to live in the Hillside and be near their work site. Employer contributions to Duluth LISC are tax deductible, charitable donations, and contributions are matched by national LISC. For further information, interested employers should contact Duluth LISC at 727-7761.
Initiated by Duluth LISC in 1998, “At Home in Duluth” is a 20-member partnership that works to revitalize Duluth’s core older neighborhoods, including Central and East Hillside. Through “At Home,” older deteriorated housing is being upgraded; families are assisted to become homeowners; new homes are constructed on vacant, infill lots; commercial corridors are revitalized; and streets and parks are improved.
Note: This is the second in a series of articles about the “At Home in Duluth” partners and what they are doing to continue to improve the quality of life in the Hillside neighborhoods.
______________________________________________________________________________
Grant Community School Collaborative News
We are wishing returning students, families, teachers and staff a warm welcome back to school. We are also very happy to see so many new faces this year. Together we can make the Grant Language and Arts Magnet School an even more creative place for students, parents and neighbors to learn and grow together.
Upcoming Community Events and Classes
As a note to our neighbors, we’d like to let you know we have after school programming that is open to all who live in the East Hillside community- we have activities for adults, youth and for families. We welcome parents, grandparents, and neighbors to volunteer in any of our youth and family programs as well. Please do not hesitate to call us at 733-2016 if you would like to become involved in the Grant Community School Collaborative programs.
Youth Programs:
“Terrific Tuesdays” and “Thurzday Thrillz” after school enrichment classes are for elementary aged youth in the East Hillside neighborhood (youth do not have to be currently attending Grant Language and Arts Magnet School). We have a variety of classes which meet 3:30-5:30 p.m. beginning Tuesday, October, 10th 2006. Children can choose from a slate of classes in the arts, games, dance, outdoor adventures, science, cultural activities and more. If you are interested please contact our office, ask for Kathy Bogen or Jess Blake for more information. Our number is 733-2016.
Grant Extended Day Program
(Before and After School Care)
The YWCA before and after school program in Rm 201 still has some openings. This program is free to families who qualify for free/reduced lunch. For all other family’s the fee is $60/month for am care and $100/month for PM care, $160 for both. We accept Child Care Assistance and can scholarship your co-pay. We welcome all children who are enrolled at Grant. You may sign in as early as 7 a.m. and stay as late as 6 PM. Pick up registration materials and look at our monthly calendar of activities in Room 201. We serve a healthy tasty snack every day and expect the students to bring in their homework. We will keep your child supervised, safe and having fun! If you have questions please call Susan at the YWCA 722-7425.
Family Programs:
We are in the process of planning lots of community events to showcase the many talents of our youth, to celebrate the wonderful diversity of our community and to meet the needs of our community.
Family Event Schedule for Fall Semester 2006-2007 at Grant Language & Arts Magnet School:
Thursday, October 5th, 5:30-7:45 Family Health & Fitness Fair - Healthy eating and
outdoor recreational games (indoors in case of rain)
October 12th, 6:00-8:00 Hispanic Cultural Family Night- Hispanic dinner and
Paraguayan Music and Puppets
Thursday, October 19th, 5:30-7:00 Baroque Music Festival- Dinner, childrens’ activities and a musical performance featuring the Chatham Baroque
Thursday, November 30th 5:30-8:00 Grant School “Steps to the Future” Powwow –
Feast, Dancing, Career Fair
Thursday, December 14th 5:30-7:30 “Enda Semestah Fiesta” Cultural foods, student
exhibits and performances, Latin dancing.
While donations are always appreciated, there is no charge for these events.
For more information, call the Grant Community School Collaborative at 733-2016
Girl Power! Program at the YWCA of Duluth
Girls ages 9 – 15 are welcome to attend our “just for girls” Girl Power! Program. This free program allows girls to participate in non-traditional recreation, self-esteem building activities, community service and explore new careers/vocations. We do things girls love to do! We will pick you up after school Monday, Wednesday and Friday and can in most cases drive you home at 6:00 PM. You choose which days of the week work best for your schedule, all three or maybe just one. Bring your homework and dress for the weather. We usually swim once a week so have a suit and towel handy! Registration materials are available in the main office. Call Susan at the YWCA 722-7425 so we know when you will be with us!
We are wishing returning students, families, teachers and staff a warm welcome back to school. We are also very happy to see so many new faces this year. Together we can make the Grant Language and Arts Magnet School an even more creative place for students, parents and neighbors to learn and grow together.
Upcoming Community Events and Classes
As a note to our neighbors, we’d like to let you know we have after school programming that is open to all who live in the East Hillside community- we have activities for adults, youth and for families. We welcome parents, grandparents, and neighbors to volunteer in any of our youth and family programs as well. Please do not hesitate to call us at 733-2016 if you would like to become involved in the Grant Community School Collaborative programs.
Youth Programs:
“Terrific Tuesdays” and “Thurzday Thrillz” after school enrichment classes are for elementary aged youth in the East Hillside neighborhood (youth do not have to be currently attending Grant Language and Arts Magnet School). We have a variety of classes which meet 3:30-5:30 p.m. beginning Tuesday, October, 10th 2006. Children can choose from a slate of classes in the arts, games, dance, outdoor adventures, science, cultural activities and more. If you are interested please contact our office, ask for Kathy Bogen or Jess Blake for more information. Our number is 733-2016.
Grant Extended Day Program
(Before and After School Care)
The YWCA before and after school program in Rm 201 still has some openings. This program is free to families who qualify for free/reduced lunch. For all other family’s the fee is $60/month for am care and $100/month for PM care, $160 for both. We accept Child Care Assistance and can scholarship your co-pay. We welcome all children who are enrolled at Grant. You may sign in as early as 7 a.m. and stay as late as 6 PM. Pick up registration materials and look at our monthly calendar of activities in Room 201. We serve a healthy tasty snack every day and expect the students to bring in their homework. We will keep your child supervised, safe and having fun! If you have questions please call Susan at the YWCA 722-7425.
Family Programs:
We are in the process of planning lots of community events to showcase the many talents of our youth, to celebrate the wonderful diversity of our community and to meet the needs of our community.
Family Event Schedule for Fall Semester 2006-2007 at Grant Language & Arts Magnet School:
Thursday, October 5th, 5:30-7:45 Family Health & Fitness Fair - Healthy eating and
outdoor recreational games (indoors in case of rain)
October 12th, 6:00-8:00 Hispanic Cultural Family Night- Hispanic dinner and
Paraguayan Music and Puppets
Thursday, October 19th, 5:30-7:00 Baroque Music Festival- Dinner, childrens’ activities and a musical performance featuring the Chatham Baroque
Thursday, November 30th 5:30-8:00 Grant School “Steps to the Future” Powwow –
Feast, Dancing, Career Fair
Thursday, December 14th 5:30-7:30 “Enda Semestah Fiesta” Cultural foods, student
exhibits and performances, Latin dancing.
While donations are always appreciated, there is no charge for these events.
For more information, call the Grant Community School Collaborative at 733-2016
Girl Power! Program at the YWCA of Duluth
Girls ages 9 – 15 are welcome to attend our “just for girls” Girl Power! Program. This free program allows girls to participate in non-traditional recreation, self-esteem building activities, community service and explore new careers/vocations. We do things girls love to do! We will pick you up after school Monday, Wednesday and Friday and can in most cases drive you home at 6:00 PM. You choose which days of the week work best for your schedule, all three or maybe just one. Bring your homework and dress for the weather. We usually swim once a week so have a suit and towel handy! Registration materials are available in the main office. Call Susan at the YWCA 722-7425 so we know when you will be with us!
Gloria Dei Radio Ministry is 64 Years Old
By Britt Carlson
“I gave myself a title: Radio Ministry Coordinator, RMC,” says Doug Maguire, the man who is in charge of broadcasting the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church service over WDSM 710 AM radio each Sunday from 10-11am. This title is apt for both the man and the ministry he speaks of.
A live radio broadcast of the Gloria Dei Sunday service has been a part of the church for 64 years this March and is the longest running church broadcast in the state of Minnesota. The first broadcast was March 12, 1943. The reason for beginning the broadcast is much the same as its goal today: to spread God’s word, especially to folks who can’t leave their home. The AM frequency used to broadcast the weekly service travels farther than FM radio and so Maguire suspects that there are listeners as far north as the Gunflint Trail and east into central Wisconsin.
Though no one knows for sure how many listeners there are each week, Maguire is constantly surprised by the number of people who he meets that listen to the service. “Oh, you’re the one who puts the Gloria Dei service on the air! I’ve listened to that before,” people will tell him.
The broadcast is sent over the phone line as it has been for years. The phone line limits the sound quality, Maguire explained, but many improvements have been made over the years in technical equipment. Members are constantly supporting the ministry. “There are members of our church who will anonymously donate toward equipment they have never heard of. The members here support the church in incredible ways.”
With the help of church members and radio listeners, Gloria Dei is constantly updating its sound system for broadcast. The sound quality of the choir, band, and instrumental and vocal soloists is high because of this commitment and Maguire’s knowledge.
Maguire is a Gloria Dei Lutheran Church member and long-time volunteer. Radio Ministry Coordinator seems like a fitting title for the man who commits every Sunday to the broadcast. He’s been in charge of the broadcast for 15 years now. “I like all the dials and gadgets. And I like giving back to the community. That’s what it is for me—community service.”
There are others who put weekly efforts into the broadcast. Maguire has two volunteers who help him and he hopes to get new people involved. “I never thought I would do this every Sunday for 15 years,” he says with a chuckle.
Whether Maguire is the man behind the “dials and gadgets” or it is someone else, the answer to the Beatle’s question “Will you still need me? Will you still feed me, when I’m sixty-four?” is yes at Gloria Dei.
Central Hillside residents meet to brainstorm for ideas to improve the neighborhood
Caption:
Wanda Sayer and Myrna Raisnen write down ideas during a brainstorm session for Central Hillside.
By Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff
hillsider@sundogpress.com
Residents of the Central Hillside neighborhood gathered to brainstorm for ideas to make the area a nicer place to live and do business on Thurs., Sept. 14. Mike Fisher and Heidi Bringman, consultants with LHB Corp. led the group in three exercises. People sat at round tables and shared ideas. In the first exercise people wrote down what they thought were problems. The group was then treated to a supper. The next step was to complete and exercise with “idea Cards” in which people drew a picture or wrote down in words what would be a good, important or exciting idea for Central Hillside. Twenty-four ideas cards were used. Some of the ideas include: drawings of street-lights, better traffic controls, addition of fencing, a neighborhood watch, street improvements, a mini-bus transportation system, improving the acoustics in the Washington Center, beautifying or adding green space, creating gardens, encouraging walking and biking, a youth center, leveling of the hill of the Park and Rec area. The third and final exercise of the night was to define an area of focus. People were asked to circle or pinpoint on a map the exact area they would like to see the ideas implemented. Before people left for the night, people were giving a sticker and asked if they woke up in the morning with $1million to spend in the Central Hillside, which area of focus would they spend the money. Lighting the Hillside received the most stickers. Bringman said, “A lot of people were pretty clever in their ideas.” A unique idea she heard was to have a training program with a volunteer from University of Minnesota or the University of Wisconsin to help with simple landscape ideas to apply to our own homes. Another idea was to have a training process for landlords to make sure rental properties are up to code. LHB Corp was hired as the consultant for the “At Home in Duluth,” which is a collaboration of the City of Duluth, Duluth LISC, and Neighborhood Housing Services. Bringman said that the Duluth Neighborhood Revitalization planning is off to a great start. She urges residents to come hear what Central Hillside neighbors think and share ideas for future revitalization efforts.
The next meeting is scheduled for:
Thursday, November 2nd at the Central Hillside Community Center, 6pm.
Caption:
Wanda Sayer and Myrna Raisnen write down ideas during a brainstorm session for Central Hillside.
By Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff
hillsider@sundogpress.com
Residents of the Central Hillside neighborhood gathered to brainstorm for ideas to make the area a nicer place to live and do business on Thurs., Sept. 14. Mike Fisher and Heidi Bringman, consultants with LHB Corp. led the group in three exercises. People sat at round tables and shared ideas. In the first exercise people wrote down what they thought were problems. The group was then treated to a supper. The next step was to complete and exercise with “idea Cards” in which people drew a picture or wrote down in words what would be a good, important or exciting idea for Central Hillside. Twenty-four ideas cards were used. Some of the ideas include: drawings of street-lights, better traffic controls, addition of fencing, a neighborhood watch, street improvements, a mini-bus transportation system, improving the acoustics in the Washington Center, beautifying or adding green space, creating gardens, encouraging walking and biking, a youth center, leveling of the hill of the Park and Rec area. The third and final exercise of the night was to define an area of focus. People were asked to circle or pinpoint on a map the exact area they would like to see the ideas implemented. Before people left for the night, people were giving a sticker and asked if they woke up in the morning with $1million to spend in the Central Hillside, which area of focus would they spend the money. Lighting the Hillside received the most stickers. Bringman said, “A lot of people were pretty clever in their ideas.” A unique idea she heard was to have a training program with a volunteer from University of Minnesota or the University of Wisconsin to help with simple landscape ideas to apply to our own homes. Another idea was to have a training process for landlords to make sure rental properties are up to code. LHB Corp was hired as the consultant for the “At Home in Duluth,” which is a collaboration of the City of Duluth, Duluth LISC, and Neighborhood Housing Services. Bringman said that the Duluth Neighborhood Revitalization planning is off to a great start. She urges residents to come hear what Central Hillside neighbors think and share ideas for future revitalization efforts.
The next meeting is scheduled for:
Thursday, November 2nd at the Central Hillside Community Center, 6pm.
Scott Neustel will lead HBA through challenge of new projects for funding
Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff
hillsider@sundopress.com
Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff
hillsider@sundopress.com
Caption:Scott Neustel, president of the Hillside Business Association, poses at his business the Ski Hut, 1032 E. 4th St. His father started the business 51 years ago. (Photo by Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff)
Scott Neustel, 2006- 2007 president of the Hillside Business Association (HBA), became an active member of the HBA after he saw what a difference street lamps along 4th Street made to the atmosphere of the neighborhood. Before the new streetlights were added a few years ago, the big picture windows of his business, Ski Hut, 1032 E. 4th St., were vandalized about twice a year. “I was so impressed with that project,” Neustel said, “I became more motivated.”
The Hillside Business Association encourages and facilitates additions and improvements along the 4th Street corridor and the Hillside neighborhood in general. Neustel said, “I believe in small business. You can’t run small business out of malls.” He said the 4th Street corridor lends itself to small businesses, which are specialized businesses with stand-alone structures. If the neighborhood is clean and safe, people will want to shop at these businesses.
“If the 4th Street corridor were to deteriorate, crime rates would go up and property values would lower.” He says a vibrant neighborhood is the key to prevention of crime. Whatever the HBA can do to add to the quality of life for the residents of the Hillside neighborhoods comes back to benefit the businesses and customers of the businesses.
Currently the HBA receives funding from charitable gaming run through the Twin’s Bar. Neustel said, “As of January the charitable gambling contract is up. Our income source will be from other projects. That will be a big challenge.” Neustel said the HBA does have some projects “in the works,” but declined to say what they are until deals are firm.
One new project the HBA uses for funding is the ownership of the building, which houses Ma and Pop’s 4th Street Market. The new owners of the market, Deyona and Jamar Kirk, pay rent to the HBA. There are also two apartments over the grocery store and the lower level of the building has two commercial spots. Neustel said it would be ideal if a catering service could rent part of the lower level to compliment the grocery store. An old house will be demolished to make room for parking.
“It’s easy to do business on 4th street right now,” said Neustel. It is the only two-way street above Superior Street. If people take ownership there will be less and less vandalism. One of the ways to take ownership is by removing graffiti right away. The HBA now has material to help people remove graffiti.
The HBA also has a financial interest in the Village Place Apartments on 5th Street. They have a 33 percent partnership with VP Development (Scott Vesterstein and Paul Vesterstein.) The HBA is authorized under the state of Minnesota as a community development corporation. Another project the HBA has completed is the remodeling of storefronts on the 500 block of East 4th Street and the bridgework over Chester Creek at 14th Avenue. The membership flyer says of the future, “Many more things need to be done: further improve traffic flow and parking, eliminate the graffiti and garbage, curb the growing gang related activity in the area, develop a bike path, create a desirable place for people to come to shop and live.
Membership in the HBA is $15 for individual residents and $50 for business. Meeting are held the third Wednesdays of the month at 12 noon at the Village Place Apartments. Serving on the board are: Tammy Gosline, Claudie Washington, Melissa Taylor, Mary Bjorklund, Jeff Fifield, Henry Banks, Michele Lebeau and Rod Raymond.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
The League of Women Voters Duluth along with Minnesota Citizens Federation Northeast, CHUM, and Community Action Duluth will co-sponsor the following local forums:
St. Louis County Commission, District 1
October 5, 7:00 PM, Court House, County Board Chamber, Second Floor
Duluth, MN
Candidates for County Commission are Dennis Fink and Frank Jewell.
State Legislature: Senate Districts 6 and 7; House Districts 7A and 6B
October 12, 7:00 PM, Duluth City Hall, City Council Chambers, third floor.
Senate District 6 candidates are Tom Bakk and Jennifer Havlick; Senate District 7 candidates are Yvonne Prettner Solon and Steve Khalar; House District 7A candidates are Tom Huntley and Becky Hall; House District 6B candidates are Mary Murphy and Dale Brodin.
These forums will be taped and broadcast on PACT TV. Please call the station for broadcast times (218-723-3686).
The League of Women Voters, Minnesota Citizens Federation Northeast, CHUM, and Community Action Duluth are nonpartisan organization that neither support nor opposes political parties and candidates. The purpose of these forums is to provide voters with objective information on the views held by candidates running for office so that they can make informed choices on election day.
Visit the website
http://www.lwvmn.org/LocalLeagues/Duluth/index.htm
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Duluth Police Department
Press Release
Party Patrols net 40 violators over the weekend
Over the weekend on Friday and Saturday nights, Duluth police responded to disturbing party
calls in the neighborhoods surrounding the colleges. Annually, police are inundated with party
calls and disturbances directly related to college students moving into the community for the start of college. Neighborhoods surrounding the colleges have told the Department disturbing parties are a priority problem effecting quality of life.
As a result, police responded to 20 complaints of parties and disturbances between the hours of
9pm and 3am on both Friday and Saturday nights. The following charges were the result of
police investigations into the complaints: 32 were cited for underage consumption, 3 were cited
for disorderly conduct, 5 requests for charges for Gross Misdemeanor sales to underage persons
and 2 people were taken to the Duluth Detoxification Center.
The enforcement activity was made possible by a Community Crime Prevention Grant awarded to the Duluth Police Department by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. The grant allowed the Department to hire police officers on overtime bolstering the number of officers responding to the party calls.
Press Release
Party Patrols net 40 violators over the weekend
Over the weekend on Friday and Saturday nights, Duluth police responded to disturbing party
calls in the neighborhoods surrounding the colleges. Annually, police are inundated with party
calls and disturbances directly related to college students moving into the community for the start of college. Neighborhoods surrounding the colleges have told the Department disturbing parties are a priority problem effecting quality of life.
As a result, police responded to 20 complaints of parties and disturbances between the hours of
9pm and 3am on both Friday and Saturday nights. The following charges were the result of
police investigations into the complaints: 32 were cited for underage consumption, 3 were cited
for disorderly conduct, 5 requests for charges for Gross Misdemeanor sales to underage persons
and 2 people were taken to the Duluth Detoxification Center.
The enforcement activity was made possible by a Community Crime Prevention Grant awarded to the Duluth Police Department by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. The grant allowed the Department to hire police officers on overtime bolstering the number of officers responding to the party calls.
Volunteers Needed To Help Low-income Families File Tax Returns
Volunteers are needed for next tax season to help low-income families file tax returns. Training is provided and the free tax clinic operated by Community Action Duluth will be open on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings during from January – April 2007.
Volunteers will help low-income workers fill out federal and state income tax returns. “We are looking for at least 25 volunteers who are interested in helping people, networking with other professionals and making a difference in their own community,” said Angie Miller, assets program manager at Community Action Duluth. Volunteers receive extensive tax training and are assisted at all times by experienced tax preparers and a reviewer. Last year our site prepared over 500 tax returns for low-income people. For one hour of a volunteer’s time, a low-income household received an average of $1300 in tax refunds. Our site emphasizes asset building by offering benefit screening, free credit reports and information on programs such as matched savings accounts. We need volunteers to prepare taxes, however just as important are the other volunteers who assist during the tax clinic with screening and greeting our customers. This is a rewarding and fun way for people to get involved in the community by volunteering just 4 hours a week during tax season.
Individuals interested in serving as volunteer tax preparers or assistants at Community Action Duluth should call Angie Miller at 726-1665 extension 13 for position descriptions and applications. Interested people can also email angie@communityactionduluth.org
Volunteers are needed for next tax season to help low-income families file tax returns. Training is provided and the free tax clinic operated by Community Action Duluth will be open on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings during from January – April 2007.
Volunteers will help low-income workers fill out federal and state income tax returns. “We are looking for at least 25 volunteers who are interested in helping people, networking with other professionals and making a difference in their own community,” said Angie Miller, assets program manager at Community Action Duluth. Volunteers receive extensive tax training and are assisted at all times by experienced tax preparers and a reviewer. Last year our site prepared over 500 tax returns for low-income people. For one hour of a volunteer’s time, a low-income household received an average of $1300 in tax refunds. Our site emphasizes asset building by offering benefit screening, free credit reports and information on programs such as matched savings accounts. We need volunteers to prepare taxes, however just as important are the other volunteers who assist during the tax clinic with screening and greeting our customers. This is a rewarding and fun way for people to get involved in the community by volunteering just 4 hours a week during tax season.
Individuals interested in serving as volunteer tax preparers or assistants at Community Action Duluth should call Angie Miller at 726-1665 extension 13 for position descriptions and applications. Interested people can also email angie@communityactionduluth.org
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Copeland Computer Learning Center offers free internet, computer use and individualized classes
Captions: Chu Vang stands beside Miranda Peterson, age 16, a resident of the new Harbor Highlands neighborhood. Miranda is playing a game named, “Age of Mythology.” Nick Sutcliffe and Matthew Benson. (Photo by Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff)
This summer when Chu Vang arrived at work at the Copeland Computer Learning Center, 1112 N. Lake Ave., several kids anxiously awaited the opening of the computer lab. “We’ve been very busy this summer,” Vang, the Copeland Computer Center Coordinator, said. One hundred seventy-one children and adults are registered to use the room. This fall the computer lab will be open for adults only from 10:00 a.m to 3 p.m. From 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. children will be allowed to use the computers.
There are eight computers at the Copeland Computer Learning Center. All are connected to the Internet. Children like to use the Internet to play games and visit websites like Barbie.com and the Cartoon Network. Vang said that there are also programs for math, reading and typing for young children. Juniors and seniors in high school like to use a program that helps them practice for the ACT and SAT, college prep tests. Some adults use the resume program.
A rotor detects any illegal sites and certain words are blocked from the Internet at Copeland. Vang is always in the office to give oversight.
This summer children from the Harbor Highlands, next door, walked over to the Copeland Community Center. A ban also brought children in from West Duluth, East Duluth and the Procter area. Some parents dropped their children off as well.
Besides using the open lab, the public can take free personalized computer courses with Vang. “There are no set times for these courses.” Vang works with your individual schedule. He teaches Computers 101, History of Computers, Microsoft Office Suite and Website Design. Vang said two women recently told him they learn more from his classes than from courses they paid to take.
Individuals can also receive assistance building a personal computer.
HOPE VI clients are eligible for more services such as leasing a computer while they are looking for a job or setting up a home business. HOPE VI clients can also receive free Internet access in their home for six months. Free diagnosis of computer problems is another service for HOPE VI clients.
The computer lab takes donations of old computers.
Computer Learning Center Hours
Fall, starting Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. adults only; 3:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. children’s programs. For transportation please phone 218-279-2543 Ext. 101. To speak to the computer coordinator phone 218-279-2555.
http://www.copelandcc.org/
Captions: Chu Vang stands beside Miranda Peterson, age 16, a resident of the new Harbor Highlands neighborhood. Miranda is playing a game named, “Age of Mythology.” Nick Sutcliffe and Matthew Benson. (Photo by Naomi Yaeger-Bischoff)
This summer when Chu Vang arrived at work at the Copeland Computer Learning Center, 1112 N. Lake Ave., several kids anxiously awaited the opening of the computer lab. “We’ve been very busy this summer,” Vang, the Copeland Computer Center Coordinator, said. One hundred seventy-one children and adults are registered to use the room. This fall the computer lab will be open for adults only from 10:00 a.m to 3 p.m. From 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. children will be allowed to use the computers.
There are eight computers at the Copeland Computer Learning Center. All are connected to the Internet. Children like to use the Internet to play games and visit websites like Barbie.com and the Cartoon Network. Vang said that there are also programs for math, reading and typing for young children. Juniors and seniors in high school like to use a program that helps them practice for the ACT and SAT, college prep tests. Some adults use the resume program.
A rotor detects any illegal sites and certain words are blocked from the Internet at Copeland. Vang is always in the office to give oversight.
This summer children from the Harbor Highlands, next door, walked over to the Copeland Community Center. A ban also brought children in from West Duluth, East Duluth and the Procter area. Some parents dropped their children off as well.
Besides using the open lab, the public can take free personalized computer courses with Vang. “There are no set times for these courses.” Vang works with your individual schedule. He teaches Computers 101, History of Computers, Microsoft Office Suite and Website Design. Vang said two women recently told him they learn more from his classes than from courses they paid to take.
Individuals can also receive assistance building a personal computer.
HOPE VI clients are eligible for more services such as leasing a computer while they are looking for a job or setting up a home business. HOPE VI clients can also receive free Internet access in their home for six months. Free diagnosis of computer problems is another service for HOPE VI clients.
The computer lab takes donations of old computers.
Computer Learning Center Hours
Fall, starting Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. adults only; 3:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. children’s programs. For transportation please phone 218-279-2543 Ext. 101. To speak to the computer coordinator phone 218-279-2555.
http://www.copelandcc.org/
Quality Living in the HillsideAt Home in Duluth, program makes the Hillside a great place to live
By Robert Vokes
Everyone wants to live in a neighborhood that contributes to their quality of life. And everyone wants to live and raise a family in a safe neighborhood that includes access to shopping, schools, parks, and good transportation.
Thanks to the hard work by many residents and community organizations, which are helping shape projects that complement the neighborhood’s fabric and diversity, Central and East Hillside are becoming great places to live. But this didn’t just happen.
For the past eight years, the “At Home in Duluth” partners have been diligently working in three areas: housing, economic development, and community development. The “strategic partners” include resident-led groups (e.g., At Home in the East Hillside Implementation Committee, Central Hillside At Home Implementation Committee) and organizations such as Neighborhood Housing Services of Duluth, Hillside Business Association, the City of Duluth, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of Duluth (Duluth HRA), and the Duluth Local Initiatives Support Corporation (Duluth LISC), which initiated the “At Home in Duluth” partnership. Other partners include Center City Housing Corp., Northern Communities Land Trust, Women’s Community Development Organization, and the Women in Construction Company and Training Program.
The accomplishments of the partners have been significant. Just to list a few:
· Older, deteriorated housing is being upgraded, low- and moderate-income families assisted into homeownership, and new homes constructed on vacant lots, removing formerly blighted housing;
· The “At Home” Hillside Homeownership Incentive Program, an employer-assisted homeownership program funded by seven employers, has assisted 87 families through downpayment and closing cost assistance to purchase homes in the Central and East Hillside;
· The “At Home” Storefront Enhancement Pilot Program provides funding to upgrade the appearance of individual businesses to attract new customers and businesses to the neighborhood;
· Duluth HRA, Duluth LISC, and a private developer secured a $20 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Harbor Highlands (formerly Harbor View) neighborhood; and
· “At Home” plans have lead to development of affordable and mixed-income units such as Alicia’s Place, Village Place, the Lake Superior Condominiums, and the New San Marco Apartments.
According to long-time East Hillside resident Mona Cheslak, who has been with the “At Home” initiative since the very beginning, “We residents really appreciate the emotional support, time commitment, expertise, and funding that the ‘At Home’ partners provide. Although there is still much to be done, we could not have accomplished what we did without our partners.”
Robert W. H. Vokes---Development/External Affairs Officer
Note: This is the first of a series of articles about the “At Home in Duluth” partnership and what they are doing to continue to improve the quality of life in the Hillside neighborhoods.
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