The ‘People’s Music School’ moves to Midway

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
‘The People’s Music School’ is now located in the Midway.
After 45 years in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood of Minneapolis, the West Bank School of Music (WBSM) moved in July 2015 to 655 Fairview Ave.
“The feedback from students and instructors has been incredibly positive,” remarked Amy Reise. “The organization has engaged new students from the neighborhood and the building, including siblings of St. Paul Ballet students; individuals who train at the Elements studio; and members of the Living Word munity-oriented businesses located in the former Banta Corp. paper warehouse that is owned by Living Word Church.
Transforming lives
The mission of West Bank School of Music is to transform lives and the community through innovative music education and inspiring performances.
PHOTO RIGHT: West Bank School of Music student Lorna W. takes a lesson from accordion instructor Dan Turpening. (Photo submitted)
Founded in 1970, WBSM was created by musician/composer Warren Park to expand music education beyond traditional classical training styles. Informally nicknamed, “The People’s Music School,” WBSM was the first music school in Minneapolis to specialize in music education in popular and roots music styles, including blues, jazz, folk, Rock n’ Roll, country, and world music.
Over the past 45 years, more than 20,000 students of all ages have received affordable, innovative music education from instructors who, in addition to teaching for WBMS, are professional musicians, recording artists, and composers.
Music classes develop the brain
West Bank School of Music offers private lessons, classes, workshops, ensembles, summer youth band camps, and community concerts. Families and students of all ages and backgrounds are attracted to West Bank School of Music’s affordable music instruction that offers a disciplined, yet casual style and focus on teaching students based on their interests.
“Music education is beneficial for people of all ages, and it is never too late to learn a new instrument or resume lessons,” urged Reise.
She added, “Musical training helps develop the brain areas involved in language and reasoning; promotes spacial intelligence (the ability to perceive the world accurately and form mental pictures of things); promotes creative thinking and problem solving, and encourages empathy.”
PHOTO RIGHT: Lila Ammons is a vocal instructor at the West Bank School of Music. (Photo submitted)
West Bank School of Music has taught private lessons to students as old as four and as young as 82. Music instruction is offered seven days a week, during the daytime and evenings. Lesson times are arranged with instructors.
For further information about West Bank School of Music instructors and instrument offerings, visit wbsm.org or call 612-333-6651. Lesson rates are affordable, and there are discounts and scholarships available.

Article appeared in the December 2015 Monitor Saint Paul.

R.E.A.D. offers students arts, engineering, and design training

After-school and summer programs help kids build skills in areas they’re interested while keeping them off the streets

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
R.E.A.D. After School and Summer Youth Development Center and the JL Griffis School is the newest addition to the youth programs housed at 655 S. Fairview.
Founder Jerry Griffis is excited about how the organizations will be able to network together.
The after school youth center is one of six community-oriented businesses located in the former Banta Corp. paper warehouse that is owned by Living Word Church.
“My goal is to partner with some of my building-mates to make that facility one of the premiere after school and summer learning facilities for the kids in St. Paul,” said Griffis.
A safe place
Griffis started R.E.A.D. four years ago and serves as its executive director.
“After a tragedy in my life I saw a need to start an out of school program, one that would keep youth safe and would give them hope,” explained Griffis.
The 24 x 24 square foot performing arts stage in the center is named after his late son Detrick Devon Griffis, a victim of teenage suicide.
“That really put the fire under me to do things for kids,” explained Griffis.
Not all kids will be hockey, basketball or baseball players, he pointed out. Instead, they may find their passion in art.
R.E.A.D. stands for Robotic, Engineering, Arts & Design, and the programs there reflect a range of interests.
“I realized that kids have more time out of school than in school,” explained Griffis. “I wanted to provide a safe place for them to be encouraged—and maybe they will realize that our programs can lead them on a career path.”
He knows what kids are going through
For the past 22 years, Griffis worked in the automotive industry, the only Afro-American service manager for GM in the Twin Cities. He manages the White Bear Lake Superstore Service Department.
The only child of a single mom in the city, Griffis knows what it is like when a single parent who works two jobs doesn’t have much time to spend with a child. Griffis didn’t get out to hunt or fish like kids in the country might. And he didn’t do that as an adult either. Instead, he spent his time honing photography, videography, and audio engineering skills. He has begun several magazines, including I Am Magazine for the gospel music industry and Silence the Violence. In 1989, he built a studio and has since been the executive producer of seven records.
He has taken these various interests and combined them into an organization that gives kids not just something to do in their free time, but also skills they can use in careers.
“I know what they’re going through,” explained Griffis. “So I wanted to provide a safe place for kids.”
The mission at R.E.A.D is to challenge the community of learners to reach global standards through unique and engaging experiences and opportunities in a safe and nurturing environment.
When a child says, “‘Thank you, Mr. Griffis, I really learned a lot,’ that’s something that touches your heart,” remarked Griffis.
Programs expanding
In 2011, R.E.A.D. began operating in three rooms at the Urban League of Minneapolis. They turned rooms that were being used for storage in space for the arts, with a recording studio in one room, videography and photography in another, and audio engineering in the third.
PHOTO LEFT: Sixth to eighth grade students from St. Peter Clever School at Lexington and I94 are thrilled to get a completion certificate and Target gift card after a semester attending R.E.A.D. programs. (Photo submitted)
When Urban League needed the rooms back last year, R.E.A.D. went mobile and began operating its programs at its partner schools, which include Urban League Academy (grades 6-12), Friendship Academy Charter School (grades 6-8), and St. Peter Clever School (grades 6-8).
Now that it has found a 3,000-square-foot home at 655 S. Fairview, R.E.A.D. it is once again operating out of its own location. And with the increase in space, it can expand its programs.
Through R.E.A.D., students discover interests and talents, as well as a strong desire to achieve something higher than themselves and greater than the violence of the streets.
“We want them to find purpose, cultivate change and develop leadership,” said Griffis.
A large performing arts stage may be used for theater, choreography, dance and more. Griffis’ hope is that students learn not only to express themselves, but the solid speaking skills and the confidence to be in front of an audience. There are also two studios, one for post production and one with 24-channels.
Griffis pointed out that the Studio 158A classroom music education system takes a new approach to music education. The blended learning model merges the best music education pedagogy, a proprietary curriculum, and distance learning technology.
“Unlike customary classroom education programs that focus on band, orchestra, and chorus, Studio 158A embraces non-traditional instruments and distributive technology,” said Griffis.
They pull in a wide audience of teachers, students, and parents with a passion for playing music individually and in groups.
“Our curriculum integrates professional development to empower music educators to master the latest concepts and methods in the teaching of music,” he added.
An office equipped with a heat press will enable students to learn entrepreneurial skills and start their own business making greeting cards, t-shirts, hoodies and more.
Automotive and aviation training offered
JL Griffis Twin Cities School also offers automotive and aviation training. Classes begin at the 655 S. Fairview location and then move to a building on County Road D in Maplewood.
The 12-week automotive detailing training program teaches auto service, detailing, and customer service.
Griffis pointed out that there is a shortage of automotive technicians as many of the current workers retire. “They make a good living, earning $55-$70,000 a year. These are jobs you can get with no college degree. You need to read, type and listen,” said Griffis.
“These are things I don’t think a lot of our community knows about, and I want to introduce them to.”
Fishing and golf tournaments
R.E.A.D. hosts two events annually, a fishing tournament the Saturday before Father’s Day, and a golf tournament in August. The events pull in various sponsors who get to mentor kids for a day.
PHOTO RIGHT: In 2015, R.E.A.D. hosted its first Father’s Day Fishing Tournament the Saturday before Father’s Day. It’s an meaningful event for R.E.A.D. founder Jerry Griffis (center, back row), who grew up without a father to celebrate with on Father’s Day. He’s glad to be a part of making memories for other kids without fathers. (Photo submitted)
The fishing tournament is especially close to Griffis’ heart. His father died when he was seven, so Griffis doesn’t have his own father’s day memories. He’s glad to help create those for other kids without fathers. Last year he manned the barbecue grill. “It was just a wonderful time,” said Griffis.
He is also excited to assist with Toys for Tots this year, and will help distribute toys to families they come in contact with.
Learn more at http://jlgtcs.org.

Article appeared in the December 2015 Monitor Saint Paul.

Spirit Tae Kwon Do emphasizes courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit in Fairview Ave. location

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
Spirit Tae Kwon Do (TKD) at 655 Fairview offers lessons in traditional and Olympic-style Tae Kwon Do. “Our mission statement is to share the beauty of Tae Kwon Do while strengthening the practitioner with the five tenets observed in the art,” explained co-owner Agnes Espino.
Spirit TKD‘s main focus is on courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.
Agnes’ husband, Spirit TKD instructor, Joe Espino, is a firm believer that to be a well-rounded martial artist, one must master oneself first.
Agnes added, “Our lessons are based on uplifting the practitioner to gain confidence, self-awareness and a sense of community involvement.”
PHOTO LEFT: Spirit Taekwondo is a member of USA Taekwondo Association. Students attend, compete and support local and national tournaments. Spirit Taekwondo houses local grand champions and National Olympians. (Photo submitted)
This emphasis on strong moral values is what sets Spirit Tae Kwon Do apart.
“The views of Spirit Tae Kwon Do towards martial arts is not based on physical capability alone,” pointed out Agnes. “It is not based on the financial status of an individual. It is, however, based on the practitioner’s attitude on adapting the art in their everyday life.”
Strong family bonds
Spirit Tae Kwon Do offers a variety of classes for adults and children age five and up. Siblings and parents are encouraged to take family classes together.
In fact, that’s how the Espino family became involved in Tae Kwon Do. Joe, Agnes and their two daughters began training together at USA Tae Kwon Do in Farmington, Minn. in 2005.
Born and raised in Chicago, Joe had always enjoyed martial and combative arts, including Kung Fu, boxing, kickboxing and Tae Kwon Do.
Upon seeing the benefits of what Tae Kwon Do had to offer, Joe decided to become a practitioner. He found that it helped him in growing closer to his family, friends and community.
He studied under Master Luong Pham and Master Hoang Danh. In 2010, as a Master instructor, Joe open Spirit Tae Kwon Do in St. Paul on Grand Ave.
“Spirit Tae Kwon Do strongly believes in strong family bonds and a nourishment of one’s spirit,” said Agnes.
Spirit TKD families are supportive of each other, welcoming towards newcomers and understand the importance of community involvement.
Master Joe works with people from all walks of life. He enjoys helping families become closer to each other. He also works with individuals that have autism and social anxiety, finding activities and hosting focus sessions for children with special needs.
Adults and kids experience physical benefits, such as increased strength, stamina, energy, flexibility, balance and faster reflexes; as well as the mental benefits of improved concentration, reduced stress levels and increased levels of relaxation throughout the day.
Becoming role models
“Tae Kwon Do can give the practitioner confidence, motivation and initiative. The practitioner exercises their body physically, their mind mentally and their soul spiritually. Tae Kwon Do opens up new outlooks on life,” said Agnes. “They make friends, achieve goals and ultimately become role models through the art of Tae Kwon Do.”
Spirit Tae Kwon Do is a member of USA Tae Kwon Do Association. Students attend, compete and support local and national tournaments. Spirit Tae Kwon Do houses local grand champions and National Olympians. Spirit Tae Kwon Do provides after school programs and lessons to St. Paul public schools and St. Paul area private schools.
Spirit Tae Kwon Do also offers other packages such as Tae Kwon Do-style birthday parties, fundraisers, holidays and social events, demonstrations and private lessons.
Interested individuals can call 651-428-6170. Or, stop by for a free class. For more information, browse www.istkd.com or visit one of their two Facebook pages: Spirit Tae Kwon Do St. Paul and Spirit Tae Kwon Do School.

Copyright © Monitor Saint Paul

Non-profit encourages African American children and parents to connect with culture to build self-confidence needed for academic success

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN

When children feel strongly connected to their culture, they do better in school, pointed out Gevonee Ford, whose 18-year-old non-profit provides a range of holistic services for children and families with the goal of connecting them to their African heritage and building towards academic success.

The Network for the Development of Children of African Descent (NdCAD) at 655 Fairview Ave. is a place where the African spirit is nurtured and renewed.

It is a place where African people come together to learn of and from themselves.

It is a place where people come to learn from their elders and children.

It is a place where they affirm their global family.

Children select free, cultural books to keep during the NdCAD Saturday Book Giving Program that runs every Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. (Photo submitted)

Family education center
The family education center in the Midway neighborhood offers a variety of literacy programs with a cultural component that leads to academic success and lifelong learning, according to Ford.

Ford pointed out that research has shown that if children believe that they can learn, and if they understand the connection between literacy and culture, they will do better in school.
In 2012, Ford and NdCAD were recognized as a White House Champion of Change. The organization has also received the MLK Drum Majors of Service Award.

The vision for NdCAD emerged out of grassroots community organizing effort that took place from 1995 to 1997. Cultural Beginnings, a project of the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Child Care Resource and Referral Network, identified the need for building and strengthening connections within the black community. NdCAD was created to address the need for networking and community building.

Children participate in NdCAD’s annual summer literacy and cultural enrichment camp where children build reading skills and cultural awareness/knowledge. For example, children learn how African/African Americans have contributed to society and the world through science and technological invention,s as well as other intellectual and cultural contributions. (Photo submitted)

Founder Gevonee Ford remains the executive director, and has overseen the organization first in South Minneapolis, then North Minneapolis, and now the Como Midway. NdCAD was the first tenant in 2006 in the former paper warehouse owned by Living Word Church where Ford is a member.

“At each stage of NdCAD’s development,” Ford said, “the community has been involved in helping us to heal, learn and grow.”

The most important message NdCAD wants to share is that each person involved is “a part of a community that values and cares for them, and has expectations for them,” said Ford.

Since its inception, NdCAD has asked: “How do we heal, repair and strengthen the village so that the village can raise every child?”

Ford strongly believes that “each of us as community members have an opportunity to educate and develop our young people.”

Supporters include the Greater Twin Cities United Way, Saint Paul Children’s Collaborative, Ramsey County Workforce Solutions and St. Paul Promise Neighborhood, as well as individual donors. “Generous support from individuals and groups like these help make it possible for us to positively impact the lives of children and families,” said Ford.

Sankofa Reading Program
NdCAD offers a nine-week after-school program for struggling readers. The holistic approach of the Sankofa Reading Program “helps children make connections between knowledge of self and literacy,” said Ford.

The approach is working. Participants have been going up 2-5 reading levels.

Kindergarten to third graders participate in the Sankofa Reading Program offered at the NdCAD Educational Center in the Midway neighborhood. (Photo submitted)

“Most importantly, there is increased confidence in their ability to learn which translates into better school performance,” remarked Ford.

Last year, the program served 180 students throughout the metro area.

Parent power
Concurrently with each Sankofa session is a nine- or four-week Parent Power program. The program “helps parents make literacy and cultural identity connections,” said Ford. The group also talks about how parents can work with teachers and schools.

Parent Power is built on the principle that parents are a child’s first, primary, and life-long teacher. Everything parents do at home to advance literacy has long-term effects on preparing children for success in school and life.

Through Parent Power, participants begin to challenge self-doubt and begin to think critically about how they view themselves through the eyes of others; they recognize how their self-concept impacts how they parent and teach their children. Participants also begin to deconstruct myths about themselves, African people, and their community, making invisible systems of oppression visible. Together, parents gain a deeper understanding of their innate power to bring about change in themselves, schools, and community.

Sankofa and Parent Power participants celebrate their achievements during a graduation. The community is invited to attend these events. Call 651.209.3355 for more information (Photo submitted)

Parent Power graduates stay in frequent contact with each other through NdCAD Nia Gatherings, which include monthly activities for parents and children. Through the gatherings, families build community together, parent-to-parent and family-to-family.

Uhuru Youth Scholars
The Uhuru Youth Scholars Program offers high school students two full semesters of exploratory research experience, as well as the opportunity to earn high school and college credits.
Last year, the group focused on how the media and colonization impact how African American youth view themselves.

Students first design the project, conduct research, analyze results and present solutions. Learning these helpful skills translate into improved academic performance, and also provide students with skills for college.

“The idea is for them to take on the identity of scholars and researchers,” observed Ford.
Last year, students held focus groups in beauty salons, set up interviews with adults and youth and conducted research at several high schools.

Educator workshops
In addition to teaching, NdCAD never forgets that it is a learning organization. What it learns, it then shares with others.

NdCAD offers professional workshops for educators and others, with the goal of broadening the impact of what it has learned to increase children’s success.

Free books
Each Saturday, noon-2pm, NdCAD gives away new and gently used children’s books that focus on African culture, such as President Barack Obama’s, “Of Thee I Sing.”

Since 2001, they have put a half million books into the homes of children.

Many assume that all children have books in their homes, but that isn’t always true, pointed out Ford. Books are expensive.

“There’s nothing like when a child can pick a book, write his or her name in that book and say, ‘This is my book,’” remarked Ford. “It sends a profound message on the value the community places on children.”

Anyone who would like to donate books may drop them off at the NdCAD office between 10am-7pm Monday to Wednesday, 10am-5pm on Thursday and Friday, and noon-2pm on Saturday.

This story appeared in the November 2015 Monitor.

St. Paul Ballet offers ‘unplugged’ experience

Three-in-one organization offers pre-professional dance training, dance classes for community members and professional dance company

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN

The vision of St. Paul Ballet (SPB) is to lift the human spirit through the art of ballet.
SPB is a company of professional dancers, a pre-professional training program and a place for all members of the community to take dance classes.

SPB utilizes an artist-led organizational model for ballet companies. Now in its ninth year, this artist-led model gives Company dancers opportunities within the infrastructure of SPB to broaden their voice and build their careers in the arts. (Photo submitted)

It was established in 2002 when the St. Anthony School of Dance merged with the St. Anthony Performing Arts Guild located in the historic Grand Ave. “studios above the hardware store” where ballet has been taught for well over 60 years. In 2012, SPB was restructured under an artist-led business model. In 2014, SPB added the studios at 655 Fairview Ave. to more than double space for classes and rehearsals, according to St. Paul Ballet Executive Director Lori Gleason.

The 655 Fairview Ave. location also enables SPB to address socio-economic constraints and lack of cultural exposure to the arts by broadening its reach.

“I first walked into the Grand Ave. studio of the Andahazy School of Classical Ballet in 1978 (our current Grand location), and have stayed involved ever since serving in various ways including as a managing director, a student, a dancer, a parent and a board member,” said Gleason.

One of SPB’s board members was a foster child and credits the classes given to her by the Andahazy’s many years ago with giving her the passion and tools to create a successful, happy and fulfilling life. Now she would like to see others benefit from the same.

“Parents of young children tell us the dance classroom offers their children a place to experiment and be themselves without a right or wrong way to do things,” said Gleason. “It also is completely ‘unplugged’—no phones, television, video or other distractions.”

Benefits of ballet
Ballet is often the basis for many genres of dance. “Besides the obvious benefit of exercise it develops coordination, balance, self-confidence and more,” said Gleason.

Children learn to follow instructions, work in groups and perform before an audience. They gain a sense of their bodies and how to control them in motion.

“We have live accompaniment in all ballet and modern classes which is a must for training,” said Gleason.

Many of the SPB students are top academic students, and credit the focus and demands of ballet for their tenacity and capacity to take on difficult work.

“Ballet classes can also be a stress reliever. The concerns of the day drop away because it is nearly impossible to think of anything but the class,” remarked Gleason. “The exercise of the body reduces stress as the mind is consumed with the art.

“And who wouldn’t want to exercise to beautiful live music?”

Dance classes for professionals and community
SPB offers two programs that attract students of all ages, all levels of dance experience and body types.

More than 100 students participate in the pre-professional program that runs for a school year. There are six levels of training in the progressive ballet curriculum that builds the foundation for college-level programs, conservatory or a professional dance career.

St. Paul Ballet is a company of professional dancers, a pre-professional training program and a place for all members of the community to take dance classes. SPB offers classes at two studio locations in St. Paul, one on Grand Ave. and one at 655 Fairview. (Photo submitted)

The drop-in program serves another 200 students of all ages through classes in music and movement for ages 4-6, beginning ballet for ages 7-11 and beginning and open ballet classes for teens and adults.

The unique “Take Back the Tutu” initiative promotes the ballet dancer as athlete and celebrates the unique body types of individuals. “You don’t have to look just one way to wear the tutu,” observed Gleason. Free, public, monthly conversations are led by health professionals on topics about healthy bodies and dance.

The school has the advantage of a close affiliation with the SPB Company members, and advanced students have opportunities to perform in productions with the professional dancers.

The School of SPB holds a residency for Great River School (1326 Energy Park Dr.), including two, 12-week sessions in fall and spring with on-site classes culminating in a performance of student work and SPB Company excerpts.

Professional company works full-time
The St. Paul Ballet Company is experiencing a rebirth under Artistic Director Zoé Emilie Henrot, with the guidance of Artistic Advisor Christina Onusko.

“I believe any story can be told through dance, but only successfully if the eyes are present to complete the puzzle. The beauty of dance truly lies in the details. That’s real artistry,” said St. Paul Ballet Company dancer Nicole Brown. (Photo submitted)

The Company includes ten professional dancers, plus four apprentices. They perform a repertoire of classical and contemporary works, ranging from story ballets to works by local and national choreographers that explore new directions for ballet.

St. Paul Ballet recently performed at The O’Shaughnessy for the first time with its new Company, and the organization was happy to read the following review in the Star Tribune: “The October performance  ‘hit all the right marks, weaving an enchanting tale with a sense of wonder.’”
“It is quite rewarding after all of the hard work over the last three years to revive the organization,” Gleason observed.

SPB utilizes an artist-led organizational model for ballet companies. Now in its ninth year, this artist-led model gives Company dancers opportunities within the infrastructure of SPB to broaden their voice and build their careers in the arts.

“One of our apprentices to the company was told as a child that she would never be a dancer. At SPB she has been able to pursue her dreams and has excelled,” remarked Gleason.

The Company dancers rehearse and perform for audiences four times a year; participate in outreach activities such as Ballet Tuesdays; take professional classes and rehearse during the day, Monday to Friday for five hours, September to May; and work 3-6 hours a week on their administrative duties. Some of the dancers also teach classes in the school several times a week. All Company classes and rehearsals take place at 655 Fairview.

Holiday show planned
The third holiday production of “Clara’s Dream,” an abbreviated version of the classic “Nutcracker” created and premiered in 2013, will be performed at the Janet Wallace Mainstage Theater at Macalester College Dec. 17-20. This year’s extended run will feature enhanced costumes and new backdrops from scenic designer Anne Henly, funded by an Arts Activities grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council. Tickets are on sale now at spballet.org.

This story appeared in the November 2015 Monitor.

Element Boxing and Fitness is for everyone

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
Photos by and © CAROLINE YANG (website: www.carolineyang.com)

Element Boxing and Fitness at 655 Fairview is a fitness center for everyone, including those who want to box professionally and those who simply desire a place to workout.

One of the biggest benefits of boxing is discipline. “It’s only the disciplined individuals that pull through and achieve success,” observed owner and professional boxer Dalton Outlaw.
He knows from personal experience.

Boxing as his outlet
Outlaw grew up in St. Paul’s Frogtown neighborhood. At age 8, he started boxing at a neighborhood boxing gym within walking distance from his home.

“Boxing quickly became my outlet as I grow up in an economically challenged community that didn’t offer much guidance or many positive male role models,” said Outlaw. “The local gym kept me busy and out of trouble. This time spent as a youth in the boxing gym eventually le d me to other sports such as football, where I eventually received a scholarship to Concordia Saint Paul.”

After earning his degree, Outlaw was hired full-time by a corporation, but quickly realized he wasn’t going to find fulfillment in a career selling and servicing products he didn’t believe in.
He decided to go into business for himself.

As he closely watched the local boxing gyms he was involved in, Outlaw knew there was a need for a boxing gym, but he also knew he needed to do something different than they had in order to survive. And so he opened a gym in 2011 where people focus on exercise and health along with boxing.

Although the gym initially opened in a 1,200-square-foot basement on Prior Ave., it quickly grew into a state-of-the-art facility, one that breaks the stereotype of boxing gyms being in smelly basements with leaking pipes.

The move to 655 Fairview Ave. in 2013 provided the business with 8,500 square feet of open space, making it the largest boxing gym in St. Paul.

Delivery and respect
Element Boxing has over 1,400 square feet of field turf, a full competition boxing ring, and 22 heavy bags for punching and kicking, as well as professional strength training equipment for all levels.
“I think that our delivery and respect for the art of boxing sets us apart from not just other boxing gyms, but other health and sports clubs everywhere,” remarked Outlaw.

“We teach our classes and programs as certified experienced professionals. We have a large open space and clean atmosphere with lots of professional training equipment.”

Outlaw pointed out that roughly 90 percent of students come for the workouts, not because they want to be professional boxers.

Classes are structured and entertaining. Some members drive from outside of the Metro to experience classes, and a group of St. Paul police officers regularly train there.

The physical benefits of boxing are becoming healthier, stronger, and faster and achieving weight loss.

“We finish all workouts by yelling as loud as we can, at the top of our lungs, ‘hard work dedication,’” said Outlaw.

Outlaw partners with multiple independent trainers who use the space for their own fitness businesses, helping others achieve their dream of owning their own businesses.

“From that day I came over here, I have continued to pursue and promote more businesses and organizations that have similar missions to join me and the others here,” said Outlaw. “My role at 655 Fairview has been to continue promoting and developing this millennial community center with collaborative organizations that offer a variety of disciplines to help adults and children achieve developmental goals.”

Partnering with at-risk youth
Element works to be accessible to local families, in part thanks to the foundation he started, The Exercise and Health Foundation, that offers free and reduced programs and scholarships to qualifying youth.

The foundation works with the St. Paul Police Department and Ramsey County to offer programs that help troubled youth develop into productive young adults.

One teenager sticks out to Outlaw.

He was at-risk youth from a low-income family who joined the program through a referral program with the Ramsey County juvenile justice system.

“Through some resources and partnerships, I was able to get this kid into my gym and allow him the chance to have boxing be a part of and something he can call his own,” said Outlaw. “After a month in the gym and life away from the streets, he came up to me and said, ‘If I wasn’t at this gym, there’s only other one other place I could imagine I would be and that in jail.’

“This kid is still at my gym, has since joined my competitive boxing time and is developing more and more every day.”

Outlaw encourages people to stop by and visit the gym. “This is a community facility that is fit for everyone,” he said.

This story appeared in the November edition of the Monitor.

From paper warehouse to a community hub

Living Word Church transforms warehouse into home for diverse businesses and organizations aimed at families
 
By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN

An old paper warehouse in the heart of the Midway is being transformed into a hub of community-oriented businesses.

The vision of Living Word Church and World Outreach Ministries is in the beginning stages, but church members, community residents, and business owners are excited by what’s happening at the old Banta Corp. building at 655 Fairview Ave. N.

The 329,000-square-foot facility currently houses the 400-member church (with its door off N. Prior Ave.) in 50,000 square feet, with plenty of room left over for community-oriented organizations. The six organizations currently housed there in 60,000 square feet include Network for the Development of Children of African Descent (see page 10), Spirit Taekwondo, Element Boxing and Fitness (see page 8), West Bank Music School, St. Paul Ballet (see page 9) and R.E.A.D After School & Summer Development Center.

The vision of senior pastor Lesley Ford, Jr. and his wife, lead assistant pastor Rosella Ford, is a place in the city where the church can reach out and touch people within the community.

“Eventually, it will be the City of Hope, having anything that anyone in the city could need,” explained Living Word Church Administrative Assistant Sharon Ford, who is the pastors’ daughter. They envision a place that serves the community from birth to death.

“The space at 655 Fairview is rapidly becoming a model; a space for community building and communities,” remarked Network for the Development of Children of African Descent Executive Director Gevonee Ford, who is the son of Lesley and Rosella and the first tenant of the building.

Over the past three years, he’s watched additional organizations move in and bring their own energy and traffic. “They’re really connected to the community,” he remarked, “and it’s the community building community.” Gevonee is particularly excited to see adults modeling community building for children.

“I love the fact that all these businesses not only work toward the betterment of the individual, but also our surrounding communities,” observed Agnes Espino of Spirit Taekwondo. “Our businesses are in full support of each other while remaining independent.”

“We all serve young people in different ways to supplement their academic education and give them creative and physical enrichment,” remarked Lori Gleason of St. Paul Ballet.

“The synergy that I see and feel within my own business and other organizations here is one of those unexplainable beauties,” said Dalton Outlaw of Element Boxing and Fitness. “It’s everything that you would want from a community facility run by community people.”

Church moved in 2006
Living Word Church purchased the block-long facility in 2005 and moved in the next year.

The church had outgrown its home once again.

It had started in 1983 with seven people meeting in a backyard. As it grew, it went from a community center to a small church facility at 205 Otis, and then later into the gymnasium next door. When they outgrew that, they sold that property and the parking lot across the street to purchase the large Banta paper warehouse.

Two other tenants include Murphy Warehouse and Plush Pumpkins.

The church’s Crocheting for a Cause group meets each Wednesday from 12:30-2:30pm. Members crochet blankets for vets, sew caps for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and give blankets to the Episcopal Home down the street. You can find out more at http://lwcwom.com.

This story appeared in the November 2015 edition of the St. Paul Monitor.

Becketwood Cooperative good for residents and the neighborhood

Members share what they love most about living in a cooperative

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN
All photos were submitted


Peg Hanson values privacy and community, and she finds both at Becketwood Cooperative at 4300 W. River Pkwy. S.

Twenty-six-year Becketwood resident Peg Hanson (left) appreciates the sense of community coupled with privacy that she finds at Becketwood.

As one of the longest-residing residents at Becketwood, Hanson appreciates not having to call a plumber if the sink gets clogged or worry about other home maintenance items.

She was drawn to the idea of the housing cooperative when plans for Becketwood were being developed. A Longfellow resident since 1947, Hanson was on the original wait list for Becketwood but didn’t move in until January 1989 after her first husband passed away.

She appreciates the sense of community at Becketwood and believes that is more apt to happen at a cooperative than in a condo building.

Stimulating environment
“Becketwood has a stimulating environment,” Hanson remarked. There are many activities and programs to participate in. She’s served on the board of directors for a number of years, and is currently volunteering in several behind-the-scenes activities. She regularly attends the Tai Chi classes offered at Becketwood.

“I tell people: Don’t wait too long,” advised Hanson. “So often people say I am not ready for those places yet. Yes, there are a lot of us who have lived here a long time and, yes, we are old. But I think being part of a community, and the interaction it entails, helps keep us better both mentally and physically.”

Members Bob and Elaine Kirk (left) and John and Jacqueline Teisberg (right) enjoy a pub crawl.

Bob Kirk and his wife moved across the river from Highland Park to Becketwood two years ago, drawn in part by the location on 12 acres near the river. “E. River Pkwy. is the most beautiful walking/running/biking path in the Twin Cities,” Kirk observed. Plus, “we have the biggest flock of wild turkeys in the Twin Cities.”

He knew a significant number of people living at Becketwood, and, like Hanson, had watched the facility be built in the early 1980s.

Financially, it was not important to for them to be a coop, Kirk pointed out, but he appreciates the spirit of cooperation.

Becketwood Cooperative members participate in a tasting at the Du Nord Spirits room in Longfellow.

He and his wife serve on the Food, Excursion, Safety, Shop, and Art Committees. They have organized four pub crawls, and a cider making party. They play recorded piano music in the Wellington Room every afternoon. And every Apr. 1, they have a satirical publication with items that wouldn’t be allowed in the regular newsletter.

“The Becketwood mission has been to provide a well-maintained, financially stable housing in a beautifully wooded setting, creating a vibrant, supportive, cooperative community,” stated Manager Mark D. Dickinson. “That mission continues as members actively govern the cooperative and participate in so many facets of community life.”

Becketwood encourages members to participate in all aspects of the community activities from serving on committees to helping with gardening on the grounds, according to Dickinson. There are approximately 275 members, and there are about 175 who participate on committees, and many are on multiple committees.

“Members encourage each to participate—with so many committees, it is easy to find a niche or interest,” he added.

About 25% of Becketwood members come from the surrounding neighborhoods in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

“If you do not want to take care of maintenance of your house and yard anymore; if you are tired of snowplowing in the winter and lawn-care in the summer; but still wish to have some equity in your living place to leave to your descendants and to have some say in how your living place operates, co-op living is for you,” said board president Lily Ng, who moved to Becketwood from Ohio five years ago.

Sense of community sets it apart
Ng remarked that the members at Becketwood set it apart.

“The members are uniformly friendly. Neighbors volunteer to help each other, whether to provide rides to various appointments or to do pet-sitting, plant-sitting when neighbors are away, etc. We take care of each other and provide support systems for each other,” said Ng.

“The high level of participation of the members in the running of Becketwood and the respect shown to each others’ opinion is what I appreciate most about Becketwood.”

A dream realized
Ground broke for Becketwood Cooperative in 1984 after years of planning. A board of 10 women looking to create a new kind of housing was inspired by the success of 7500 York (a cooperative in Edina for senior citizens developed by Ebenezer Society).

Supported by the Episcopal Church Home, they purchased what was formerly the Sheltering Arms Orphanage. The orphanage, begun in 1882 by Sister Annette Relf, was given 140 acres along the river in March 1900 from the estate of Richard Martin. Later that year, Sheltering Arms sold some of its property to the U.S. government for the lock and dam for $1,450. Two years later, they sold 28 acres to the city for the construction of the River Rd.

The Sheltering Arms building was constructed in 1910. Over the years more land was sold off, some in 1923 for the construction of the Michael Dowling School for physically challenged children, and 13 acres in 1956 for Breck School.

The last 12 and a half acres was sold to the Episcopal Church Home in 1982 for $950,000.
In 1986, construction was completed on the distinctive Becketwood buildings, and the first active, independent members age 55+ moved in. The original orphanage chapel continues to serve residents, and the original gate is a walking path entrance of W. River Pkwy.

In 1993, Becketwood became a financially independent facility run by its own nine-member Board of Directors.

“This type of housing co-op provides ample opportunities for every member to have a say and to participate in the operation of the co-op. That’s what works for me,” stated Ng.

Cooperatively owned senior housing provides full apartment and townhouse living, controlled by the seniors themselves. All financial benefits accrue to the senior owners, including return of equity upon resale. Tax deductibility of mortgage interest and real estate taxes, identical to single-family homeownership, applies to cooperative ownership. Senior cooperatives typically include substantial community spaces.

Good for the neighborhood
Hanson believes that the neighborhood benefits from the cooperative, as well.
In addition to a large amount of open land around the buildings, she said they try to be good neighbors.

Becketwood Cooperative members Jacqueline Teisberg and Bob Benjamin weed the garden

.
Becketwood regularly welcomes neighbors into its gardens and grounds. Annually in July, the cooperative hosts an outdoor band concert. “It’s such fun to see the little kids rolling down our little hill,” observed Hanson. In October, Minnehaha Academy students parade through the dining room, dressed in costumes inspired by a particular book they’ve read.

On National Night Out members walk to nearby street parties to hand out balloons, and there is a Little Library for all to use.

Through a new partnership with Dowling School, members provide one-on-one tutoring.

Neighbors are invited to the annual concert in July. At right is Peg Hanson.

“A lot of our individual member volunteers in neighborhood schools and colleges (e.g. Minnehaha Academy, Dowling School),” pointed out Ng. Some volunteer at cultural and charitable centers and programs such as the Minnesota Institute of Arts, the History Center, local Meals-on-Wheels, and American Swedish Institute.

“If you enjoy a sense of community with others and thrive in active participation in cultural and artistic programs, Becketwood is the place for you,” said Ng.

This story appeared in the October edition of the Longfellow/Nokomis Messenger.

Neighbors concerned about city plans for Riverview Rd. and 54th

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN

Yardville Precinct residents in Morris Park don’t trust the city to do what it says, and they made that clear during a neighborhood meeting on Sept. 30.

Thirty-year neighborhood resident Tim McGee pointed out that several years ago they were told that single family bungalows were going to be built on the lots along Riverview Rd. and 54th that MnDOT had purchased and leveled to widen Hiawatha Ave. He added that the former residents had been evicted and forced out of their homes by MnDOT. Now the city has purchased a few adjacent lots, and the development has morphed into high density.

Tim McGee addresses his concerns at the meeting. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)

He insisted that the city should build single family houses to replace what used to be there.


“We have people who can’t sell their houses right now because of what was built behind them,” added his wife, Pam McGee. “We don’t trust anyone anymore.”

Mindee Anton attended development meetings ten years ago and noted that she almost didn’t attend this meeting because she didn’t think it would make a difference. “The city did what they wanted,” she commented regarding the past.

Minneapolis Council Member Andrew Johnson, who is serving his first term, sought to reassure residents. “Know that your feedback absolutely matters here,” he said.

Johnson hosted the meeting on Sept. 30 in cooperation with the Nokomis East Neighborhood Association.

“We want to have your input on what is important to you,” Johnson said. “That will directly shape the requests for proposals.”

In response to a question, he stated that notices for this meeting were mailed to everyone within one block of the site, and everyone at the meeting confirmed via a show of hands that they lived within a few blocks of the development site.

Unique space
The Yardville Precinct is unique in that there is an open, public space running along the back yards of Riverview Rd. and Hiawatha Lane. The city maintains an easement, but the underlying owner is the Minnesota Dept. of Revenue.

The Nokomis East Light Rail Transit Station Area Plan adopted in 2007 encourages development in the area as single-family, two-family and two-to-three-story multi-family. It suggests that residential uses could be at a higher density because of the existing green space behind the lots, but stressed that the green space should remain a private space intended for adjacent residents, not for use by the general public.

Resident Andy Rinder stated that he would be fine with four stories as long as there were multiple entrances and good pedestrian flow.

When asked what details would help new development fit into the surrounding neighborhood, attendees listed: green space, owner occupancy, low density, underground parking, and multi-income. They also suggested that there be a grocery store or coffee shop.

“We don’t want something that is out of place in our neighborhood,” said T. McGee.

It will be a long process
Jimmy Lloyd, who is leading this project, pointed out that after the city receives proposals from developers, each will be evaluated based on the objectives set by the city and residents. After the proposals are ranked, the city may ask a developer to tweak their project to meet more of the criteria.
The city will not be returning to residents with the proposals.

Jimmy Lloyd (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)

“This is a long process,” explained Lloyd, “between the wants and needs of the city, the neighborhood, and what is cost effective for the developer.”

He asked residents to be flexible, stating, “Don’t let the perfect get in the way of the good.”
After listening to resident comments, Lloyd said that what he heard is that they don’t want massive structures like they’ve seen already, they don’t want the view to be blocked, they want different housing styles, and they want it to more accurately fit into the neighborhood.

Concerns in the neighborhood
Residents also expressed concerns about current parking along Riverview Dr., pointing out that people park for free there to avoid paying the parking fees at the dog park across Hiawatha Ave.
“It used to be a real calm, quiet neighborhood. Now we can’t get through,” said Ileen Johnson.

Council member Johnson responded that he would request that the road crew take a look at the parking situation and make a recommendation the next week. He said he would also ask the fire department to drive by to evaluate whether they could get a rig through the road when cars are parked on both sides.

Some residents are frustrated that there is no bus stop at the senior building along 54th near Riverview Rd.

Anton noted that there are no streetlights along Minnehaha to the lightrail station.

Another resident pointed out that the Blue Line stops for two hours a night, which affects how people who work nights can use the lightrail line for commuting to work. After midnight, the train only goes through once an hour.

Consider catering to younger professionals
Attendees were also asked to share their ideas on how the city can best leverage the benefit of the nearby lightrail station at the Veterans Hospital.

P. McGree isn’t sure that the city understands who lightrail uses are. “This is what the city doesn’t get. Everyone who uses the lightrail still has two cars,” she said. Because of this, any development done in the area needs to provide enough parking.

Anton suggested that development cater to young professionals who work downtown and want to commute via the lightrail, and want such amenities as solar panels.

“Whoever comes up with the best design for the community is who we will be going with,” promised Johnson. “Know that is my commitment to you.”

Why were children kept out of new Triangle Park playground all summer?

Funding, contracts, and weather, made the entire process complicated says the project manager

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN

Rain has delayed work this fall on the concrete and asphalt trails, as well as the playground surfacing, at Triangle Park. According to MPRB Commissioner Steffanie Musich, weather delays may prohibit this project’s completion this fall. Temporary fill options and ways of curing the pour-in-place surfaces under play equipment are being explored. If not completed this fall, remaining work will be done in 2016 when ground conditions and temperatures meet material requirements. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)

The new playground at 54th St. and Bloomington Ave. looks ready to play on, but the construction fence is still up.

Although the playground equipment is installed, work on the walkways and resilient surfacing has been delayed, according to project manager Adam Arvidson.

The exact date when the park will open is still unknown and depends on the weather.
The autumn rains have prevented the contractor from getting proper soil compaction for installing walks and playground surfacing. Because of cool temperatures, it now looks like the playground may not open until next spring. The pour-in-place surface needs temperature to be above 50 degrees for 24 hours.

A complicated process
The entire project became more complicated last fall when the five bids submitted for the new playground came in 30 percent higher than expected.

“We felt that the high bids might be due to the time of year and the scarcity of construction materials at that time,” explained Arvidson. Minneapolis Parks and Recreation rebid the project in February and added trails and the main beach work at Nokomis to gain some economy of scale.

Neighbors have questioned why the playground equipment has been sitting there since June but children haven’t been able to play there. The answer is that MPRB bid the equipment and surfacing separately, racing to meet grant fund deadlines. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)

“The February bids were good, with two bidders below our estimate. Unfortunately, neither of these two were able to achieve civil rights approval from the city of Minneapolis,” said Arvidson.

“Our only option then, in light of the impending grant funding deadline was to do what we could through other purchasing methods.” MPRB bought the play equipment and let some of the work through per-approved contracts, but those mechanisms have expenditure limits, and they could not do everything through that method.

And so, bids were solicited a third time for Triangle Park, this time without the play equipment and a few other smaller items.

The time lag between these two construction contracts is the reason for the hiatus this summer. The playground equipment was installed by the June 30, 2015 deadline. Then the Park Board began another months-long process to bid work, receive civil rights review and board approval, execute contracts, and begin work with all due diligence in place.

“Would we love for this to move more quickly? Yes,” said Arvidson. “But all these mechanisms are in place to protect the taxpayer and ensure fair, equitable, and transparent expenditures of the community’s dollars.”

Grant funds come with deadlines
MPRB received two Metropolitan Council grants that paid for all the improvements in Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park, including the planning effort and work at the Sandcastle Terrace. However, this money came with non-negotiable deadlines, and if they weren’t met it meant MPRB would lose the money.

The first of these expired on June 30, 2015, and the second will expire on June 30, 2016.

“Our original plan was to complete the 54th St. playground and accessibility improvements at the main beach using the first grant,” explained Arvidson. “When it became clear due to the volatile bidding climate that we would not be able to contract for the entire project in time to meet the June 30, 2015, deadline, we had to get creative.”

The original estimate for the Triangle Park playground itself was $420,000, including a drinking fountain, restroom enclosure, and walkways through the playground. This estimate did not include the Triangle Walk that runs between Edgewater and 54th.

The total of the contracts to install the playground is $637,409, but that includes the Triangle Walk.
This is much more than expected and, is about equivalent to the lowest bids last October.
Arvidson admitted this was a disappointment.

“In an effort to get closer to our project estimate we rebid the project twice, split it in two, hurried like crazy to meet funding deadlines, and ended up (financially speaking) back where we started,” he observed. “In hindsight, this seems like a mistake, but had we last October approved a bid 30% higher than our estimate, I expect that would have come under scrutiny, as well.”

The good news
 
Because MPRB could not spend all of the first grant on Triangle Park, it was able to complete other work in the Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park, including:
• An expanded main beach, with new beach chairs, accessible paving for the playground, an accessible path to the water’s edge, relocation of the boat/bike rental facility to the north end of the beach (the infrastructure was put in place and the booth itself will move for next season), and a new sand and water wheelchair made available for beach patrons with lower mobility
• Pathway fixes throughout the park, including repaving of some of the worst sections
• New canoe/kayak racks and a dock at the north end of the lake
• Purchase of additional site furniture such as picnic tables and drinking fountains that will be installed beginning next year (this includes a new drinking fountain at the main beach)
• Reconstruction of the Triangle Walkway between Edgewater and 54th St., including an accessible ramp down from Edgewater. This was one of the absolute worst stretches of pathway in the park.

“In all, a concerted effort by several MPRB staff from various divisions allowed us to spend all of the first grant on items that will benefit park users,” said Arvidson. “Though we had quite a few curve balls throughout the past year, we succeeded in not leaving any grant money on the table.”

Upcoming improvements
Next up will be significant trail work at the southern intersection of Cedar Ave. and Lake Nokomis Pkwy.

“This area was a very high priority for most participants in the master planning process,” pointed out Arvidson, who led that process last year.

MPRB will be creating larger pedestrian ramps, wider crosswalks, and easier trail circulation from the pedestrian and bike trails to the crossing. It is also likely (although somewhat dependent on the cost of bids) that a new trail will be built along Cedar between that southern crossing and the bridge, and from the bridge northward to the northern intersection of Cedar and Lake Nokomis Parkway.
“This segment of trail will allow a full circumnavigation of the larger basin of Lake Nokomis without a roadway crossing,” said Arvidson. “We are also looking at a few other substandard trail segments around the lake for rehabilitation if the budget allows.”

Community has been understanding
While he’s been receiving several emails and calls from residents each week inquiring about why the Triangle Park playground is half-done, Arvidson said the community has been very patient and understanding.

“People seem to get the reality, even if they don’t love it,” said Arvidson. “As project manager, I hate that it has taken this playground so long to open. I want to thank community members for their patience.”

Newly hired Como Community Council Executive Director 15-year neighborhood resident

Michael Kuchta is excited to tap into energy in a neighborhood where people care

by Tesha M. Christensen

Fifteen-year Como resident Michael Kuchta stepped into the role of District 10 Como Community Council Executive Director in on Oct. 5, 2015.

After a month long application period, the District 10 Executive Committee examined each application submitted and conducted interviews. “We were immediately impressed by the experience and qualifications of Michael Kuchta,” stated Council Chair Ryan Flynn. “Michael has experience with multiple nonprofit organizations in various roles. He brings a deep understanding of community based organizing, communications, and project management. 

“He has worked extensively with volunteers and community members to accomplish organizational goals, and we are thrilled to have him as a part of District 10.”

A GREAT FOUNDATION TO START WITH

Kuchta grew up in Chicago, but moved to the Twin Cities area 16 years ago because it is where his wife, Katie, is from. The couple is on their second house in the neighborhood, slowly doing all the things you need to do to update an almost 70-year-old house.

“It’s a great location, it’s safe, it’s friendly, it’s human-scale,” observed Kuchta.

As they walk their dog, the Kuchtas have realized how often people are out in the neighborhood.

“You get to meet people, know people, see people taking care of their gardens, see kids playing, see people working on their houses,” he pointed out.

“People care about this neighborhood. They have expectations about the quality of life you can have here,” said Kuchta. “And that’s a great foundation to start with if you’re a district council. I think there’s an energy here that we can be part of.”

Although he’s lived in the neighborhood for 15 years, Kuchta acknowledges that there is much he has yet to learn about Como.

HE OWES IT ALL TO HIS BICYCLE

Bicycling got Kuchta involved in community action projects.

He is an avid cyclist who bikes a lot in the summer, commutes to work when he can, and even rides in the winter as long as the roads are clear.

“I was pretty active as St. Paul developed its new city bicycle plan, and I really hope we can build that out, because I think it’s a great way to connect neighborhoods and make neighborhoods much more people-centered,” stated Kuchta.

He serves on the Citizens Advisory Committee for the St. Paul Grand Round project.

“I really want to see the Grand Round develop, so we can have safe, efficient bike paths, and pedestrian paths, and bike lanes for people of all abilities,” he noted. “The Grand Round runs right through our neighborhood along Wheelock, through Como Park, then along Como Ave. past the Fairgrounds. So that could be a huge asset to the neighborhood if we can get it done.”

CONSTRUCTIVE NOT OBSTRUCTIONIST

Kuchta forsees two sets of challenges for the District 10 Community Council.

The first is at the city level, managing the ongoing budget problems the city of St. Paul always faces. Kuchta pointed out that the city’s finances impact city services and property taxes, which impact the quality of life in the city and its neighborhoods, and who wants to live in Como or who can afford to live here.

“That also limits the ability of the city and neighborhood groups and institutions and businesses to do things – sometimes relatively minor things that can make a big difference,” said Kuchta.

The second challenge is how the neighborhood reacts to change.

“Things are pretty decent in Como, so there’s a tendency to be skeptical of change,” remarked Kuchta. “But I think there’s a big difference if you perceive change happening to you, or if you are part of making change happen.”

“That’s where I think a strong district council and good community organizing can make a difference.”

Kuchta seeks ways to be constructive, not obstructionist -- finding common goals and solutions rather than merely riling people up.

As an overwhelmingly residential neighborhood, the area is always balancing the positive and negative effects of the two huge institutions (the fairgrounds and Como Park) located within its borders.

“Keeping that balance takes a lot of energy and effort,” Kuchta observed.

Because of its layout, Como doesn’t have a neighborhood business district like others do, such as St. Anthony. Instead, businesses in Como tend to be on the edges of the neighborhood, or scattered in various places.

“Even though we have a nice neighborhood where it’s relatively easy to walk or bike, we don’t have that central gathering spot or spots that can unify a neighborhood or add a level of cohesion to a neighborhood,” said Kuchta.

“Are there ways to create that – and what role can the district council play?”

LISTENING AND EXPLAIN COMPLEX ISSUES

Kuchta believes he was selected as the Como Community Council Executive Director because the job requires communication skills, administrative skills, and community organizing skills -- and he’s got all three.

Kuchta earned his bachelor of arts in journalism from Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism in Evanston, Ill. He worked in daily newspapers for 15 years, and was the editor of a business trade magazine for 5 years. Most recently, he has done communications work for labor unions in St. Paul, producing the twice-monthly St. Paul Union Advocate.

In addition to honing the typical journalism and administrative skills, Kuchta also fine-tuned the ability to listen.

This translates into the skill of being able to understand complex issues and then explain those issues in a way that people who are not experts can understand.

“Plus I’m pretty good at connecting dots, and seeing where there might be common ground that isn’t always obvious,” remarked Kuchta.

Kuchta earned his master’s degree in Advocacy and Political Leadership from the University of Minnesota - Duluth, and now teaches in the graduate-level program at Metropolitan State University.

His labor union background has taught him the ability to organize and connect people, while advocating for better outcomes.

Kuchta has spent more than a decade serving on various boards, including Our Savior’s Community Services which provides emergency shelter and advanced housing services for more than 125 homeless adults, plus adult education and citizenship classes for 400 immigrants.

He co-founded the Twin Cities Labor Chorus in 2009 and serves as its treasurer.

In the winter, when he’s not biking, he’s skating, cross-country skiing, and listening to a lot of hockey games.

This story appeared in the October 2015 St. Paul Monitor.

Minneapolis discovers golf course pumping groundwater out because Lake Hiawatha is at higher elevation than course

Data leaves MPRB with more questions and puts golf course improvements on hold

by Tesha M. Christensen

The hundreds of local residents who packed inside the Lake Nokomis Community Center on Tuesday night, Sept. 15, 2015 expected to be sharing their opinions on three concepts for the Hiawatha Golf Course.

Instead, they learned that everything at the golf course is currently on hold.

On Friday, the city of Minneapolis shared information with the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board (MPRB) from a preliminary study that shows groundwater issues at the golf course.

It suggests that 273.6 million gallons of groundwater are being pumped from the golf course each year.

This is not water from a rainstorm or water running into the course from the city’s stormwater system. Nor is it water coming from Minnehaha Creek on the south side. Instead, this is shallow groundwater that exists on the site, always sitting just beneath the ground surface.

“The volume of groundwater being pumped from this site to enable a game to be played is shocking, and will take time to process and understand,” stated MPRB District 5 Commissioner Steffanie Musich.

“No doubt like many of you, I am still struggling to understand what this means for the course and this project as a whole.”

MPRB has been working to improve the golf course with plans to complete the project in 2016. Part of the work will be paid for by $1.2 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds following the storm damage in the summer of 2014 that was the worst at the course since 1987.

The back nine holes at the golf course have been closed since the flooding, and will remain so as the MPRB doesn’t want to jeopardize its FEMA funding by doing any work there, said Assistant Superintendent of Planning Michael Schroeder.

WATER MAY LIMIT USE AT SITE

While MPRB had considered canceling the Sept. 15 public meeting, they chose to share this new information with attendees and answer questions as staff was able, according to Schroeder

Initial data shows that the infiltration rate at one of the five ponds at the Hiawatha Golf Course is 1.16 cubic foot per second (CFS). While Schroder acknowledged that 1 cubic foot per second seems small, it becomes concerning when you add up how much that is per minute, per hour, per day or per year.

A dimensional analysis of this figure suggests that 273.6 million gallons of groundwater are being pumped off the course each year to make it playable. The pumps run constantly.

“That’s the number that concerns us,” said Schroeder.

He pointed out that amounts to 15-16 inches covering the entire 640-acre Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park.

Additionally, the study shows that the ponds are 4 feet lower than the water level of Lake Hiawatha.

The elevation of Lake Hiawatha is 812.2 feet, the fairways are at 810 feet and the ponds are at 808 feet.

MPRB does not yet know whether the water levels would even out if they stopped pumping the groundwater from the ponds, but that is a question they are looking for an answer to, said Schroeder.

The golf course currently has a permit from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to pump 38.5 million gallons of groundwater to use to irrigate the golf course, which is far below how much is being pumped.

At nearby Lake Nokomis, the elevation level of the lake is higher than that of the ponds. When it rains, the ponds fill and then overflow into the lake, according to Musich.

They had assumed the same thing was happening at Lake Hiawatha.

“While the park planning process from the public view can seem unnecessarily cumbersome and long, ensuring that our planning process includes due diligence to validate assumptions uncovers issues and stumbling blocks early, allowing for a successful project in the long run for generations of Minneapolitans to come,” said Musich.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH

When asked by attendees at the Sept. 15 meeting why this information was just discovered, Schroeder explained that part of its planning process for the Hiawatha Golf Course is involving the city of Minneapolis and the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. Each entity has been compiling information and completing studies. MPRB received information from the city last Friday that came from a consultant hired by the city.

This initial data, collected as part of a report expected to be presented to the Park Board and city in November, suggests that the groundwater volume is greater than previously understood and may pose limitations for how the golf course land can be used in the future.

“The future park and rec uses of this site are unknown, but I can assure you, this land will remain parkland even if golf is no longer a viable use of this space,” promised Musich.

It’s no longer just about how MPRB can accommodate golf, said Schroder.

However, he assured the crowd that MPRB is still committed finding a way to accommodate golf as the primary activity at this site, as well as bettering the water ecology, addressing the trash coming in the city’s stormwater culvert on the north side, and including non-golf activities.

“We are trying to look at this in a very holistic way,” stated Schroeder, one that doesn’t waste millions of taxpayer dollars when the course floods again.

Several residents stressed that golfers won’t be interested in using Hiawatha unless it is an 18-hole course. Schroeder acknowledged that the city recognizes the viewpoint of golfers.

He added that by simply reconfiguring the golf course, MPRB can deal with many of the water and trash issues, which earned a round of clapping from the crowd.

Schroder also pointed out that 15% of the city’s population, or 60,000 people, golf, and the MPRB sees the value of this recreational use for residents.

“We’re trying to find a solution - as crazy as it might seem - to keep everybody happy,” said Schroeder.

GOLF USAGE GOING BACK UP

According to MPRB Director of Golf Keith Kainy, golf usage in Minneapolis has been rebounding since a nationwide low during the recession of 2008/09. He also pointed out that what astounds him is Hiawatha is one of the few golf courses he knows of that didn’t take a drop in rounds during the recession.

Schroeder did note that the MPRB is making changes to ensure that its golf courses, including Meadowbrook farther upstream, are self-sustaining in the future. While 15 years ago, the city’s golf courses made $1,845,849, in 2013, they lost over half a million dollars, according to a report prepared last year by Golf Convergence for the Park Board.

GOLF COURSE USEFUL FOR FLOODWATER STORAGE

Lake Hiawatha, originally called Rice Lake, was formerly a wetland. It was dredged in the 1920s to create a lake and the golf course was built with the fill material.

Attendees at the Tuesday night meeting recalled swimming in the lake as children when it was 35 feet deep, compared to the 8-9-feet-deep it is now.

One resident suggested that the creek is adding too sediment to the lake, and he advocated for blocking the lake off from Minneahaha Creek.

“You disconnect the creek from the lake and you get a more polluted lake,” said Minnehaha Watershed District Board Vice President Brian Shekleton. He explained that if the pollution entering the lake from the city’s stormwater culvert had no way to leave the lake, it would get more concentrated.

Another resident suggested that the outflow be increased to allow more water to flow out of the lake.

Skekleton observed that this will result in basements flooding downstream, which is why the Watershed District was created 50 years ago to prevent.

“The golf course is a better place for flood waters to be stored than neighborhood streets,” said Schroeder.

Lisa Cerney, director of surface water and sewers for the Public Works Department in Minneapolis, stressed that “the groundwater is not new water to this system. It is existing water there already.”

Skekleton remarked that they may be able to increase the storage capacity of the creek during storms by remeandering it. This is what is being done upstream in Hopkins and St. Louis Park. By putting the creek back where it was in the 1920s and 30s, they are slowing the speed of the water to prevent sediment build-up and increasing the capacity to hold water from storms.Through various measures upstream, they will reduce stormwater run-off by one-third.

CAN TRASH FROM STREETS BE PREVENTED?

Some at the meeting pushed for a solution to the trash problem around the city’s stormwater culvert on the north side, and asked that the MPRB allow neighborhood resident Sean McConnaughy to implement a short-term solution this fall.

The stormwater culvert there drains the area south from Lake Street.

Schroeder responded that he have an answer to that question.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

MPRB will continue to solicit comments from community members about what they’d like to see at the golf course. Comment online at minneapolisparks.org/currentprojects.

After more data is collected, MPRB will hold another community meeting to share information. Schroeder expects that to be within the next 2 to 3 months.

Following that, MPRB will proceed with concept plans once more, and will know whether the timeline for work in 2016 is still feasible.

This story appeared in the October 2015 Messenger.