The Hillside Chronicles

1551 Hillside Avenue N. Update ~ Did She Yell "Timber"?

2011-11-10T18:44:00.001-06:00

You'll read it here first! So, of course there was a flurry of e-mails today about the condition of 1551 Hillside Avenue N., and the hideous refrigerator sitting on the front porch. Well, I learned this evening that city takes abandoned refrigerators, with the doors still attached, very seriously. In response to the 311 report, a city inspector came to the property. I am told by one who witnessed the event that it was around mid-afternoon. Once the inspector completed her report, she tipped the refrigerator over on its side so that children would not be able to open the doors and...ahhh...get trapped inside it, suffocate, and die.

I'm just wondering if she yelled "Timber" when the pushed the thing over...or was more like tipping the cow???

November 2011 JACC Board of Directors Exec. Elections: Lynn is In Again

2011-11-09T23:16:00.001-06:00

Walking into the lower level of Parkway United is pleasant experience. It is a typical Methodist-style church with loads of wood, stain glass and brick in the formal worshiping area with meeting spaces in the nooks branched off from a common hallway. With choir practicing in the background, it almost felt as if the angelic voices, with the accompanying piano, beckoned attendants to the room next to theirs, where new members of the Jordan Area Community Council met to discuss the neighborhood's business. At times, the singing almost drowned out the sounds the board members discussions, as they sat in a football shaped in the library converted into the JACC meeting space. Oh, but it was ADA complainant...yes, ADA compliant!!!

As I sat, I was passed a note pad with some notes detailing the vote for the executive offices:

Chair – LynnRiskedal

Vice-Chair - Megan Goodmundson
Treasurer –Dennis L. Wagner
Secretary –Dave Haddy
Member-at-Large– Andrea Jackson

And so it was...the forth version of the JACC Executive Committee since 2009 was formed and posed to make decisions...without objection or opposition. Next, the board introduced the newly hired staff...another major move by this very decisive board.

The Healing Process for JACC is Almost Complete:

One sign is the ability of the organization to responsibly hire qualified staff to assist in carrying out the organization mission.

Sandy 'Ci Moua – Administrativecoordinator (assigned to housing committee). Sandy is a native to Minneapolis but was raisedin Frogtown in St. Paul. She stated she does work with “CommunityAction Against Racism,” and wants JACC to have the strength it had at the time fromthe ‘60s.

TonyaJackson – Outreach coordinator (assigned to safety committee; startingblock clubs). Tonya use to be a Jordan Neighborhoodresident and former police officer of nine years. Need she say more about her qualifications for the position?? I think not.

The board has designated Amy Blenker, Megan Goodmundson, and Lynn Riskedal as the ones to provide guidance and supervision to the new staff. Any questions or concerns can be sent to: staff@jordanmpls.org

Next JACC-related Post:

The JACC House Drama; What can JACC do with NRP funds that hasn't already been done; The money in the bank isn't from a "Monopoly" game; Partners and Partnerships; the new Hennepin County HUB; Tax forfeiture properties; and properties to be acquired...(it's a boy...buy the blue $h!^).

1551 Hillside Avenue N. Update ~ Isn't "Free - Works - Just Dirty" Tempting?

2011-11-09T22:10:00.000-06:00

I just have no idea what on Earth the good people at Bank of America could have been thinking when, presumably the contractor, sought approval for the refrigerator giveaway idea. Maybe it was something like this...

[Conversation picks up]

Contractor: What would you like for me to work on first.

Bank of America: We need a handrail.

Contractor: We can take care of that...anything else?

Bank of America: Yes, you need to get rid of the old refrigerator. Can you take care of that issue for us?

Contractor: Yes, of course. What we will do is just give it away to someone in the neighborhood.

Bank of America: Fine. Just make sure that you disclose its condition.

Contractor: Sure, we will make it clear that it is an "As Is" situation.

Bank of America: Great, thank you. Anything else we need to know?

Contractor: Not really, we'll just put it in front of the house and make sure people know that they can just take it.

Bank of America: That will work.

[End of conversation.]

Really?? You just left the refrigerator on the walkway with the doors attached, hoping that someone would want to take it home and clean it. Seriously?? That was your plan?

All you did was dumped it out the front door on your own property. "Free -- Works -- Just Dirty" sure is tempting...to tip it like a sleeping cow...

The Boards Come Off at 1551 Hillside Because of a New York Mellon

2011-11-02T21:54:00.000-05:00

November 2011

Four years and seven (or so) boards ago, 1551 Hillside Avenue North was considered by neighbors to be a somewhat resolved "problem property" (just search this blog for examples and stories). After all, the neighbors chased away the drug dealers, squatters, and prostitutes. We tolerated the inattentive renter who shouted profanities at her grand children, over occupied the property in likely violation of her section 8 contract and ultimately allowed the residing children to burn down the back of the house. The lack of any meaningful action by the ill-equipped landlord resulted in the property being vandalized and place for dumping. Once the boards came, there was peace...

... and so it was for approximately four years until this week when, without any notice or indication that action was to take place, workers arrived on the property with tools in hand. They were approached by a neighbor and after some friendly conversation, it was discovered that their mission was two fold under the authority of "bank orders." First, to remove the plywood adorning the exterior doors and windows in order to allow for access to the structure so it could be sold. Second, to build a handrail. Yes, a handrail (see the photo).

This triggered a flurry of Facebook and e-mail responses from neighbors and some responses from the city. It was not lost on many that the former owner defaulted on the responsibility of caring for the property...and either gave it back to the bank voluntarily or through the foreclosure process. Geez, thanks.

By simply looking up the address on the Internet, one can confirm that indeed a bank now owns the property and ... [clutching my pearls] .. paid the taxes:

Property ID No.:

16-029-24-24-0092 NON - HOMESTEAD

Property Address:

1551 HILLSIDE AVE MINNEAPOLIS

Owner Name:

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON

Taxpayer Name and Address:

BANK OF AMERICA N A

400 COUNTRYWIDE WAY

SIMI VALLEY CA 93065

There was little indication that the bank paid the outstanding assessments or pulled any of the needed permits per the...uh... May 2010 assessment:

1551 Hillside is condemned, therefore, the property cannot be sold until a code compliance permit has been pulled and an inspection is completed. The inspection will identify all of the things that must be fixed to bring the property up to code prior to occupancy. This permit has not been pulled yet. Regulatory Services contacted the realtor and informed her that this is a necessary step prior to sale. The property has since been pulled from the market.

Bam! Instant justice to the block!

After several rounds of electronic communication, some very concrete ideas were float around, including demands that the building be demolish. So, the city when back in October 2011 and re-inspected the property and rendered this very complex and hearty assessment:

I entered and photographed 1551 Hillside today. I do not feel this house is a Demo candidate. The only major items to be repaired are the roof, windows, and furnace is sitting in the kitchen. I placed the photos into the e-file data base.

Hmmm...that doesn't sound very comprehensive...but hey, its an e-mail...ahhhh...so, the only major items are the roof and windows...isn't that what all the houses in tornado alley have to fix before the winter!?!!? That's not just sort of major...that's MAJOR. By the way, it's Minnesota...you have to have a working furnace...not in the kitchen. Yeah, I would sat that's "major" too. Did I mention there are no permits for the repairs.

But no fear, the structure is now secured by this fancy sign that is sure to ward off all those people that rendered the property boarded in the first place:

I think that sign says call Angela Larson of Tangletown Reality. Well, that is interesting...

...looks like she calls herself the "Condo Queen" ~ (http://www.angelalarson.com/condo_queen.cfm)

Check out the website: http://www.angelalarson.com/

And the brag page: http://www.angelalarson.com/our_team.cfm

Well, I haven't found the page where she talks about developing dilapidated homes in north Minneapolis and turning them into affordable homesteaded properties...nope, just a long story about condos...which this house is not.

You know what the bank needs to do???

Gift this house to the City!!!

The "Haunted Hillside" Autumn Celebration was Spooktacular

2011-10-30T12:11:00.000-05:00

Whether you like the elaborate decorations or the clever costumes, the always jubilant "Haunted Hillside" autumn celebration is the sort of event that bring character to the neighborhood...literally and figuratively. If you're interested in seeing the candid pictures, look for them to pop-up on Facebook. Until then, here are few teasers:

Hmmm...working too hard in the new garden

at the Irving Triangle???

My favorite...Eight-Bit "You"

Me ... after a JACC Meeting

The Goodies!!!

Photo Journal: 1511 22nd Avenue North COMES DOWN!!!

2011-10-21T16:30:00.000-05:00

Jordan Neighborhood Community Council's Annual Meeting 2011: Part One ~ Elections

2011-10-21T15:28:00.001-05:00

As required by the Jordan Area Community Council (JACC) bylaws, the organization of our Jordan neighbors and friends held its annual general meeting and elections on October 20, 2011. Consistent with JACC tradition, the meeting was held in the basement of a religious institution (Parkway United Church). As one enters the assembly room as I did, it was immediately notable that planning was done with care and consideration, including a Halloween themed rice crispy treates.

The young ones loved

the "Skull and Dog Bone" treats

I noticed that the meeting was in an ADA compliant building and was accessible to anybody requiring alternative means for gaining entry to the meeting hall [if you're scratching your head in wonderment as to how that little fact found its way into this recap of the meeting, just read the latest batch of grievance with JACC].

As I took my seat, JACC Safety Committee Chair Todd Heinz approaced Sen. Linda Higgins with a small plastic bucket full of numbers...yes, this meeting included a drawing for such door prizes as tools from Northend Hardware, the Goddess of Glass and Pizza Town.

And the winner is...

The action items were simple ~ electing community members to the JACC Board and the NRP electorate. The JACC Nominations Committee this year consisted of Dave Haddy, Todd Heinz and Megan Goodmundson. Dave Haddy was the Master of Ceremonies and announced there were 12 open seats on the board...and...7 candidates.

After a round of introductions, Kip Browne (former JACC Chair, Vice-Chair, Nominations Committee Chair, and current Clean Sweep committee member) moved to suspend the rules, and vote by acclamation to seat all 7 candidates. Eric Johnson (former JACC Vice-Chair and JACC Clean Sweep committee chair) seconded the motion. With no opposition to the motion or action, the voice vote overwhelming passed. The following individuals were elected by the community to post of "Director" on the Jordan Area Community Council:

Megan Goodmundson

Kathleen Gulley

Andrea Jackson

Claudia Perez

Polly Peterson

Lynn Riskedal

Dennis Wagner

As for the NRP Electorate position, Megan Goodmundson moved that Polly Peterson be elected to the post. Todd Heinz seconded the motion. There were no other nominations and no opposition. Polly was unanimously elected.

The JACC Annual Meeting

from a toddler's perspective

Photo Credit -- the 2-yr. old!

Next, the JACC Board of Directors will meet and elect its executive leadership at the November meeting (as instructed in the bylaws).

After the elections, Minnesota Sen. Linda Higgins and Rep. Bobby Jo Champion spoke to the community and answered questions (summary to follow).

Around 8:15 p.m., the meeting adjourned ...

General Protest at the Government Plaza

2011-10-08T09:41:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, there was a general call to protest at the Government Center Plaza. The protest addressed just about every issue: the two wars, bank bailouts, over-burdensome student loans, etc. People stated to gather around 7:30 am. A small crowd had accumulated by mid-morning. By 5:00 pm, there was a full-fledged protest:

One of the things that I noticed was that the protesters were of a wide range of backgrounds. Here are more photos of the protesters on the street corner:

Interesting reference to "V for Vendetta"

Hopefully, they saw the movie and know what not to do...

While some folks sat in passive support of the protest, others energetically composed protest signs. In fact, there was a sign that a lot of lawyers could agree with:

If there was any question of the effect the economy has on our country for those in the more educated working class, this sign captured it: "I'm a law student with over $80,000 in loans..." Then I saw another one...

Yes, this is a middle class protest given the theme: "Students are People Not Customers." Oh, and I would be remiss if I didn't mention the CONSTENT (and annoying) drumming all day long...obviously, some completely disregarded the fact that others actually had to work that day...possibly attempting to earn enough to make ends meet...and pay for the law school student loan...just sayin'.

Let's take a step back and get the full perspective of the protesters:

While these pictures are by no means an extensive view of this protest, it does show one perspective. Indeed, there was another element a part of the protest that legitimized the movement: politicians. The mayor was present, as was former Minnesota Governor Jessie Ventura and Congressman Keith Ellison. I thought it was interesting that another politician ~ Hubert H. Humphrey ~ watched over the event from his stone perch:

Protesters Are Expected At Government Plaza Tomorrow

2011-10-06T23:00:00.000-05:00

To be ahead of the game, to have the current information, or to be "in the know" one should read the paper or watch the news. Or, when walking around downtown Minneapolis, glance down at the sidewalk. Yes, there are times that you have to read the writing on the wall ...but... in the case of the protesters expected to converge at Government Plaza tomorrow, one should read the writing on the ground. See:

It states:

"Bank Bailed Out

We Got Sold Out

Friday Gov't Plaza"

I'll be sure to take my camera with me tomorrow for a traditional Hillside Chronicles Photo Journal. Hey, at least the vandals were courteous and used chalk to create the concrete graffiti...just sayin'.

The Unexpected Message on West Broadway...

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

WARNING: Strong language contained in the photograph below.

I am arriving to a point where it takes a person's behavior to be stranger than "atypical" to surprise me (especially here in North Minneapolis). Then, the unexpected happens and I'm surprised... Three days ago, I ran across this homemade sign prominently posted on a light pole on West Broadway, and I just had to pause:

Handmade sign posted on public property;

thus, fair game for public criticism and discussion

Well, it wasn't but a few days ago that I had a discussion with a fellow Jordan neighbor who said, in so many words, that there really isn't a lot going on in the neighborhood that hasn't already been talked out to its finest point or blogged about on the Internet. Well, here's something different...

On a somewhat related note, I have another friend that says that one should strive to keep life simple...yeah, it's good advice!

Jordan Area Community Council ~ A Meeting of the Community Kind

2011-09-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

The meeting of the local council for the Jordan neighborhood in North Minneapolis (Minnesota) on September 14, 2011, did not resemble that of a scene out of a movie where the director has cast-typed movie stars to play the roles of real people. When one of the neighborhood-elected council members said something profound, there is no roaring or cheering crowd of local residents looking upon them in awe, hanging on the moment. There is no dramatic background music with a full orquestra building to a cresendo. If it were there, it just be a distraction anyway, because none of these things seem to fuel the current local leadership for the Jordan Area Community Council (JACC). It's obvious that the care and compassion of these council members is brought together by geography and circumstances, but not limited in scope of opinion by that bond.

If you recognize the view, then you know it...

Around the board room table, eight members sat thoughtfully...engaged. Speckled in the discussions, action items passed ... like the tide on the North Shore. A conversation on the "Northside Neighborhood Collaborative" rushed into the exchange...the need to designate a representative crested like a fold in the water...the action item then formed "Lynn Riskdale [the current JACC Chair] will be the representative for Jordan." Then, the water rushed back out to the big lake of thought and concern.

And so it happened ... with other action items as well ... no one in gallery to dispute it's legitimacy ... no outside-neighborhood attendees to claim "voices were not listened to" or considered. All to the contrary.

No objections to: JACC sending a letter of support to unfreeze NRP dollars for the project at 30th and James Avenues North; appointing long-time resident Polly Peterson to the NRP Neighborhood elector; the JACC Personnel Committee continuing the screening and hiring process; and writing a letter of support for the ~~2637 Dupoint~~ [2627 and 2729 Newton] Avenue North project by Alliance.

The meeting ended like the setting of the sun over a late summer lake ... outstanding neighborhood business was left to be addressed at another time ... while there was still light, the grievence committee took swift action on three items that sounded frivolous in nature ... it was done. Board members returned to their state of being friends ... neighbors ... concerned citizens.

And that's how another meeting of the community kind happened in Jordan ... one of some 80 neighborhoods in the City of Minneapolis.

The “Second Half” of Hillside Chronicles

2011-08-19T21:11:00.001-05:00

The original idea behind writing the Hillside Chronicles was to document life of the “Hill” people and advocate for the appropriate level of change and services for the collective good of the block, neighborhood, ward and city. Over time, the blog evolved and grew away from some of the main philosophical points that were intended to be made with the real life illustrations. The Hillside Chronicles, engorged with stories from the block, needed to rest. As it did so, the mind took the paths that the blog was always intended to travel. I knew there was no “google maps” or satellite navigation system available to plot out the course of the blog, but I do know that it is time to follow the direction the mind intended to wander.

This is the second half of the Hillside Chronicles…

I Agree with the Coffee/Bike Guys on Washington Avenue...

2011-07-06T18:33:00.002-05:00

...despite the typo.

Long Time Owner of Jordan Business -- The Butter Roll Bakery -- Dies in Unfortunate Car Accident

2011-06-29T08:45:00.001-05:00

The Star Tribune is reporting that Mr. Donald Petros, the owner of the Butter Roll Bakery, was identified yesterday as the individual that died in a car accident in Crystal. This is major loss to the neighborhood...I spoke Mr. Petros countless times when picking up fresh baked goods for the office and home. He cared about the neighborhood...and was well versed in the issues that we faced. Thoughts are going out to his family and the survivors of that accident.

We are very saddened by the loss of a good businessman and neighbor.

Photo Record: Seven More Tags Abated in Less than One Hour

2011-06-26T14:02:00.001-05:00

Last night was not intended to be one of those graffiti abatement binge nights like I have had in the past. No, last night's special outing had different purpose. It was one of those..."this is how you do it" nights in an effort to give more momentum to the graffiti abatement movement and inspire yet another interested party in adopting this clean-up hobby.

So after a pit stop at Club Jager, we set out...to remove some tags...with only 45 minutes to get the job done. Of course, we didn't come close to some the records I have set with Gazabo Jay or the II; but hey, sometimes, it's just about the principle of the matter....

Of the seven pieces of graffiti removed last night, only three were by PaulZee-HC...mainly because community members have removed so much of his vandalism that its not as common on Plymouth and west of West Broadway now-a-days:

One (#40)

Two (#41)

Three (#42)

Four (#43)

Five (#44)

Six (#45)

Seven (#46)

So when I asked my special graffiti abatement partner last night for impressions, the response was priceless: "It is amazingly simple to remove the graffiti...someone just has to take ownership to get it done." True...so true.

Photo Journal: Real Artistic Graffiti in Jordan

2011-06-19T10:01:00.001-05:00

When I was out graffiti abating last week, I was asked if there was some "artistic graffiti" that I liked. Indeed there is... in fact, I like the beautifying type of art that brings to life a structure that would otherwise might be considered ugly...

Surprise!!!

On Top of Ole' West Broadway

2011-06-17T23:02:00.003-05:00

Now you see it...now you don't!!! Yeah, well, the 311 calls are kicking in right now...and that's a big one. Two stories high...white and black spray paint, unknown duration...and it is completely GONE!!! If I had to guess, I would say that it was sand-blasted!!! Yeah, sand-blasting is better than a paint over...

Hard not to feel good about causing some tagging to be removed!!

But then...what is this??? More second-story "Paul Zee" graffiti on West Broadway??

Paul Zee...THAT'S CRIMINAL!!!

Quick Update on "HESH CREW" Graffiti Abatement - #38 & #39

2011-06-17T06:00:00.004-05:00

(Okay, now we will count it..#38)

So here was the test...12 days ago, I was out with Gazabo Jay and we ran across some "HESH CREW" graffiti on a concrete retaining wall. It's difficult to remove this type of graffiti with our equipment, so we reported to 311. Besides, we were interested to see how it would be removed and how long it would take [in comparison to our instant removal plan]. Well, I guess we got answers...a block of white paint and less than 12 days...

...hmm...

Well, don't get me wrong...it's still satisfying to see the graffiti abated in my neighborhood, but there is something far more gratifying from removing the tags instead of painting over them...just sayin'

For example, after checking out the concrete wall, I ran across this..

Good thing I had some abatement materials with me...

THERE!!! That's better!!! (#39)

Oh, keep your eye on this tag...and...

...this one.

This, that and some Hillside Highlights

2011-06-14T14:41:00.005-05:00

With the loss of some troublesome renters on Hillside this month, things have quieted down. I could say that I am sad to see the alledged seamstress of Hillside go, but that would be a lie. She left us, in a whirl of 6 inch glass stilettos, pot smoke and cuss words. On their last night disturbing the peace of our block, one male frequent client/visitor (of the seamstress/lady of the evening), exclaimed, "you may have your block, but the ghetto is just around the corner!" Indeed, we will address what is around the corner too!

We said goodbye to some good neighbors too, you know who you are - we miss you all so much! It has been a bittersweet few weeks.

Aside from the above, here is a few things for us dwellers on the hill to be aware of this week:

FIRST REPORT

Public Information Report

Minneapolis Police Department

CCN: MP-11-164662

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Uploaded: Jun 9, 2011 Date Printed: Jun 14, 2011

Precinct: 04

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Incident Details

Offense1: BURGD

Desc: Burglary Of Dwelling Statute: 609.582 Attempted:

Address: 1513 Hillside AV

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55411

Occurred From: 06/08/2011 22:00 Occurred To: 06/09/2011 14:00

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Public Data:

Officers dispatched to above location on a burglary of dwelling. The listed address is a single family home. Unknown suspect forced open the rear door. The suspect removed several feet of copper pipe from the basement of the house. The victim was given a blue card.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Victim

Role / Role #: V001

Name: P s, Janneth R

Residence: 1513 Hillside AV

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55411

Telephone: C: Race: White

Victim of: BURGD

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

End of report for case MP-11-164662.

SECOND REPORT:

Public Information Report

Minneapolis Police Department

CCN: MP-11-166271

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Report Details

Reported Date: Jun 10, 2011 22:53 Reporting Officer: 005040: Patricia Nelson

Precinct: 04

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Incident Details

Offense1: DISWEA Desc: Discharge Weapon Statute: 393.230 Attempted:

Address: 1529 Hillside AV

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55411

Occurred From: 06/10/2011 22:15

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Public Data

R1 reported hearing several shots from the street near listed address.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reporting Person

Role / Role #: R001

Name: U wn, Julie

MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55411

Telephone: C:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reporting Person

Role / Role #: R002

Name: L rg, John

Telephone: C: -
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

End of report for case

Photo Journal: Add Twenty-Five More Tags Removed with Gazabo Jay's Help to the Twelve from the Other Day (37 Tags!?!)

2011-06-05T05:30:00.009-05:00

See that weird face again?

Yesterday, while I was running some errands with my wife, I told her the sub-stories of my graffiti abatement outing with Gazabo Jay. As I told the story, it just seemed like every corner we turned we saw "Paul-Zee" and/or "Hesh Crew" graffiti. Yes, when I met up with Gazabo Jay later this evening at a grill and bonfire event, we talked-up the idea of venturing out again...

...so we did ...

We started removing graffiti at Knox & Broadway

#10

#11

#12

#13

#14

#15

#16

#17

This one is a 311.

Same as above...just a closer look at the

"Hesh Crew" tag

#18 & #19

#20 & #21

In front of the KFC

was #22

At Hooks one finds #23

At the Cookie Cart was #24

#25

Theories:

1. "Paul Zee" has tagged on Broadway on at least three separate occupations,

2. So far, only the colors Black and Silver are his tagging tendencies,

3. Of the tags removed last night, only one was a non-Hesh Crew/Paul Zee/Paul-Z/PaulZee,

4. "Paul Zee" may be the only single person leaving prolific amounts of graffiti on the nothside, and

5. He preferred "Paul Zee" over "Paul-Z."

Thank You Northside Volunteers!!

2011-06-04T07:30:00.004-05:00

Six of these signs will be posted around the Jordan Neighborhood

Today is the day that 2,000 registered volunteers converge on North Minneapolis (NoMi) to help with the clean up effort after the May 22nd tornado hit the area. Overall, there has been a lot of support for those displaced, and clean up crews large and small have made strides to remove downed trees and debris. Just about every entity connected to NoMi as done its part in its own way. For that, neighbors of the Jordan neighbor say a simple...THANK YOU.

Photo Journal: Twelve More Tags Removed with Gazabo Jay's Help

2011-06-04T05:30:00.003-05:00

Paul-Zee Graffiti Removed at Plymouth & Lyndale

with skyline of downtown Minneapolis in the backdrop

On a trip to Home Depot a few weeks ago, I was introduced to this great graffiti removal product. In short time, I favored its use over the ober "eco-safe" product that was available at Clean Sweep. However, when I went out last night to do some more graffiti clean up, Gazabo Jay taught me several great "tricks-of-the-trade."

More graffiti removed at the corner of Pymouth and Lyndale

In the past 19 years of friendship with Gazabo Jay, we have had a lot of interesting adventures... and ... last night's graffiti abatement run was definitely no exception. In our two hour run, we managed to remove another 12 tags from the areas of Plymouth and Broadway. Post in progress...

Can our Children Raise Themselves?

2011-06-02T13:37:00.003-05:00

Can our Children Raise Themselves? The answer is a straightforward - NO!

Why am I thinking about this? Well, I am also exploring schools for my toddler (no, it is not too early). I have received three consistent answers on finding a school: (1) save for private school; (2) get into the Hopkins School District; and (3) enroll Minneapolis Public Schools, but BE INVOLVED.

I have to admit the school topic forces me to open my eyes and look around my block. The kids here are my sons potential peers and influences. Here, I see the dark forces of history, poverty, and indifference at play. On my block, clear as day, we have a group of children raising themselves. One of these children, about two years old, almost got hit by a car the other day.

Three children under the age of four, spent the morning and late afternoon playing outdoors, unsupervised. The youngest, around 20 months decided to play in the street (in her pajamas). A car came speeding down Hillside Avenue and stopped less than a car length from this "little bitty" child. The driver, got out left his car running and scooped the toddler up. He was visibly shaken. He looked around for a parent. They were no where to be found.

Another neighbor who witnessed the whole incident came running out. Together, they knocked on the door where the child lived. The mother, in her pajamas at 4:30pm, was intoxicated. She took the child back without a thank you and went into her house, the other two children continued to play outside.

So here is me, overworked about schools - when we have a parent on our block not even watching their very young children play outside. Where does that leave us, do I owe society a debt and attempt to be a mentor? I have to work to teach my child to be good, to talk, to read - what is going to happen when he is in a classroom with a child whose mom did not even notice that a car almost hit her? Any thoughts on this?

Two Hour Graffiti Abatement Binge ~ The Graffiti 311 Left Untouched

2011-06-01T06:00:00.003-05:00

This "22" remains despite the repeat reports to 311.

As a Minneapolis resident, I have found the 311 service for reporting graffiti to be very helpful, but there are times that ~ for one reason on another ~ 311 just doesn't get the job done. So, after waiting for a long time for the problem to be corrected, it is sometimes easier to just take care of it one's self. In fact, I have found that small tags are just best handled that way...leaving the larger ones for the city abate.

So, to see the graffiti removed from last night's "doing good binge," including the removal of a lot of "PaulZee" and "Hesh Crew" graffiti, click this link and look for the lounge music inspired video.

Minnesota Lynx to Serve Meals to North Minneapolis Tornado Victims at Shiloh Temple Church

2011-05-31T18:00:00.000-05:00

The following information is from a press release from the Minnesota Lynx:

For Immediate Release

TUESDAY, MAY 31
MINNESOTA LYNX MEDIA ADVISORY & PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

Entire Lynx Roster to Aid in North Minneapolis Tornado
Relief Efforts Tomorrow, Wednesday, June 1
Player and Coaching Staff to Pack Food and Serve Meals to those Affected by Recent Tornadoes
WHAT: Minnesota Lynx Tornado Relief Efforts
WHO: The entire Minnesota Lynx roster, including Seimone Augustus, Lindsay Whalen and Maya Moore.
WHEN: TOMORROW, Wednesday, June 1 -- 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
WHERE: Shiloh Temple Church, 1201 W Broadway Ave Minneapolis, MN 55411
INFO: In support of those affected by the recent North Minneapolis tornadoes, tomorrow, Wednesday, June 1, the entire Lynx roster and coaching staff will pack food and serve meals to those in need at Shiloh Temple Church from 12 - 1 p.m.

Contact Information:

Aaron Seehusen, Minnesota Lynx, (612) 673-1602, seehusen@lynxbasketball.com

http://www.lynxbasketball.com/

Photo Journal: Bye Bye Birdy! ~ Jordan Neighborhood Graffiti Abatement

2011-05-30T00:38:00.000-05:00

Bye bye Birdy!

In an continued effort to get my instant gratification fix from abating graffiti, I headed out again tonight to hit a few spots in the Jordan Neighborhood that needed attention. Below is a bit of my own version of artistic expression . . .

In my opinion, the opposite of graffiti is "clean tagging" ...

temporarily "marking the bushes,"

... and this H.C. stands for Hillside Chronicles.

While it is not clear to me what this says . . .

it is clear that it has to go!!!

This is one of those times where you just want to say:

"Mission Accomplished!"

Graffiti Abatement ~ Cleaning Up the Neighborhood from a Holistic Approach

2011-05-29T14:03:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I was just overwhelmed by the amount of clean up is still need here on the north side (specifically, the Jordan Neighborhood in Minneapolis, MN) after the tornado that devastated the area last week. Downed trees are everywhere...and debris is piling up. So yesterday pitched in ... and ...I cut and cut ... all day, only to drive along street like Oliver and Newton Avenues North and see the endless amount of work that needs to be done.

So, I decided to take a small break from the tree cutting project, and get some instant gratification from old past time...graffiti abatement. After all, there was some graffiti that I just needed to remove that I just hadn't had a chance to get to...so, with the graffiti remover and wire brush in hand, I took to the street with a small crew of friends...

You know, I think I'll have to make a small H.C-style photo journal of the very successful graffiti abatement outing on I figure out how to download the pictures from the new camera....but, for now, the above photos (using the old camera) are illustrative of how I got my quick fix. :-]

The "Great Northside Volunteer Clean-Up" will be on Saturday, June 4, 2011

2011-05-27T18:00:00.003-05:00

City clean-up crews remove a tree blocking the street

in front of Logan Pond (aka "Laughing Duck Pond")

Since the tornado hit North Minneapolis this past Sunday (click here for original photos of the 5.22.11 incident), we have made significant progress in the clean-up effort. In the past few days, the sounds of chain saws seem to run all the way up to the average shut off time of 10:00 p.m. Urban Homeworks volunteers have organized and identified homes needing assistance. In fact, before I was able to returned to the Laughing Duck Pond area of the Jordan Neighborhood, refreshed and ready to chain saw the trees in my friend's backyard (you know there is something great about the chain saw being a tool of revitalization), the good people of Urban Homeworks performed all of the needed work.

So, with this abundance of good will and volunteer hands, there has been a call for one last big push for clean-up:

"Saturday, June 4 will be the official North Side Volunteer Clean-Up Day in north Minneapolis. The announcement was made at an event Friday, May 27 where Mayor R.T. Rybak, Council President Barb Johnson, Council Members Don Samuels and Diane Hofstede, and Senator Al Franken thanked many of the agencies and volunteers who have already given their time to help the residents and businesses of north Minneapolis following the May 22 tornado."

-- Nothside Cleanup Day Announcement
More info at: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20110527TornadoVolunteerDay.asp

"No matter where you live, if you want to help, we want your help, because this city that is filled with heart needs the hands of everyone in the region to help rebuild. The largest volunteer effort we’ve ever seen, the Great Northside Volunteer Clean-Up, is happening on Saturday, June 4. In fact, we’re going to need the help of 2,000 people.

That’s a lot of hands, but all you need to do to lend yours is call Minneapolis 311 and tell us you want to help. But you must call 311 to volunteer: we can’t accept your help if you don’t, so please call today. (311 is staying open this Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. to take your calls. They’ll be closed Monday for the holiday but will reopen on Tuesday.)

We have made progress: so far, over 3,000 volunteers, working alongside crews from the City, utility companies and many other jurisdictions, have cleared 1,700 truckloads of debris. As a result, now all our streets are passable and everyone’s power has been restored. We’re very grateful for everyone's efforts, and we hope that one last, big, volunteer pass on Saturday, June 4 will clear out the last of the debris. Please call 311 today to volunteer."

-- Message from Mayor R.T. Rybak

And so it is...the "Great Northside Volunteer Clean-Up" will be here in 8 days with 2,000 volunteers to its command!

You know, there was some rumoring that the Jordan Area Community Council (JACC) would hold a second "Clean Sweep" in response to the devastating tornado that hit parts of the neighborhood. Hopefully the JACC Board will figure out what their "official" response to the tornado will be by June 4th ... just sayin'.

Updates on the TORNADO in North Minneapolis

2011-05-24T17:57:00.000-05:00

Reports are coming in that the damage caused by the tornado that hit North Minneapolis is somewhere in the amount of $166 Million, two deaths, and several injuries. According to XCEL Energy, 26,000 people lost power as a result of the devastation from the tornado. There are several reports that the Minneapolis Convention Center, which was open to North Minneapolis residents affected by the tornado, is full.

From: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/news/20110523HowPeopleCanHelp.asp

Tornado Recovery: How the Public Can Help

How the public can help: People throughout Minneapolis and the region have been asking how they can help people affected by the tornado. There are several ways to help:

• Donate funds, not goods – The Minneapolis Foundation has established the Minnesota Helps - North Minneapolis Recovery Fund to assist with both short-term and long-term housing and recovery-related needs on the North Side. The Minneapolis Foundation will match donations. To make a donation by credit card, visit http://givemn.razoo.com/story/Northminneapolisrecovery or send checks for the recovery effort to The Minneapolis Foundation, 80 S. 8th St., Suite 800, Minneapolis, MN, 55402. People can also donate to the Red Cross at www.redcrosstc.org. Please do not donate goods at this time.

• In the coming days, volunteers will be needed – There are crews working already in the neighborhoods, but the conditions are not yet safe enough to accommodate volunteers. The City and Urban Homeworks, a local nonprofit, will be making a call to volunteers in the coming days, but at this point it is not safe to bring folks in.

It appears that the preferred place to make donation is the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund (www.redcrosstc.org).

The Minneapolis Police Department issued the following statement:

POLICE ADVISORY
Burglary and Fraud Advisory– 4th Precinct           May 24, 2011

FACTS:

The Minneapolis Police Department 4th Precinct has noted an increase in burglary in the areas hardest hit by the May 22nd tornado.   Two distinct MOs have been reported. In some cases burglars are kicking in doors of damaged homes. There are also reports of burglars backing a truck up to damaged homes and loading it with stolen property. The MPD is asking all residents to be watchful.

The MPD also anticipates an increase in door to door home repair and contracting scams over the next several weeks. Although we have not yet received any complaints, it is typical for scam artists to take advantage of tornados and natural disasters like this.

WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT BURGLARY:
Please be alert to suspicious activity and don’t hesitate to call 911 to report it.
Do not assume that the person taking or loading items from your neighbor’s house is legitimate. When in doubt, call 911.
Alert your neighbors and block club members to the problem and be sure to watch out for each other. Remember, the majority of burglars who are caught in the act are caught because a neighbor reported seeing something suspicious.
If your neighbors’ house is damaged, talk to them about their plans for clean up and repair so you know what to expect in the coming days.
If your home is damaged, secure your personal property and ask your neighbors to keep an eye on your property.

WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT FRAUD:
Be wary of anyone going door to door offering home repair services.
There are a number of fraudulent home repair and contracting schemes. Watch out for the contractor who approaches you with a deal that’s too good to pass up. If someone says that he has materials left over from a job down the street and can give you a great deal, don’t believe him. This is a very common scam that can wind up costing you thousands of dollars.
All persons soliciting goods or services door to door in Minneapolis MUST have a Minneapolis Peddler’s License. Demand to see their license. If they are unable to, call 911
Be especially wary of people using high pressure sales tactics, or who won’t let you take the time to think it over. If he demands that you sign now, just say no.
Always get multiple bids from different contractors before signing any home repair contracts.
Be especially wary of contractors who require cash up front.
Call 911 immediately to report any suspicious people going door to door.

For more information about burglary or fraud prevention techniques, contact your 4th Precinct Crime Prevention Specialist at (612) 673-5704.

Photo Journal: Jordan Neighborhood in North Minneapolis Hit by a TORNADO! -- Part One

2011-05-23T18:23:00.001-05:00

26th and Penn Avenue North

(Jordan Neighborhood)

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55411

North side of the street

...and...

...the south side of the street.

Penn Avenue (SB) towards West Broadway

The debris at the corner of

West Broadway and Penn Avenue North

Downed trees are everywhere!!

These photos were taken on 5.22.2011, mere hours after the tornado.

Judgment Day People Buy A Full Page in the USA Today

2011-05-20T22:20:00.003-05:00

There seems to be a group of people who believe that the world is going to end tomorrow -- Judgment Day. They seems to believe this so strongly that they bought a full page ad in the USA Today to tell everyone.

Let's be frank...it's not going to happen...

More Illegal Dumping at 1522 Hillside Avenue North

2011-05-20T21:53:00.001-05:00

Well, more illegal dumping at 1522 Hillside Avenue...no big surprise given the number of times this has happened.

This time, the dumpers lined up the TVs and monitors in a row...yeah, real slick! It was 311 today...yes, good ole petition to the government for favorable action.

Photo Journal: Chicago has a New Mayor

2011-05-20T21:04:00.001-05:00

Have You Seen Willa?

2011-05-18T17:24:00.001-05:00

This is a short follow-up to yesterday's post about "Willa" the missing dog that is presumed to be on the loose somewhere in the Jordan Neighborhood. If you happen to see a dog that looks like the one in the photos above, please contact Robyn Meyer at 612-356-9321.

Checking in On the Progress at 2026 James Avenue North

2011-05-17T08:44:00.005-05:00

Didn't there use to be a ground floor window in the back?

Since this house was stripped down to the studs, and built back up, Hillside Chronicles has documented the progress Habitat for Humanity has made on this soon to be gem. It now looks like there is new hardy board siding, a nice color pallete overall, and new windows. In the back, there is a newly poured concrete that will, presumably, be the foundation for a garage. Overall, the progress being made is very good.

Ahhh...but alas, we really need to get fix the concrete gang graffiti!!

The Story Behind the Missing Dog Signs in Jordan

2011-05-17T07:18:00.001-05:00

Several "missing dog" signs that have appeared around the Jordan neighborhood. Here's more information about that situation:

From: Robyn Meyer <robyn.k.meyer@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 16 May 2011 21:24:14 -0500
To: <info@jordanmpls.org>
Subject: Missing Dog - Recently Sighted in Jordan Park Neighborhood

Hello,

I am not sure if you can help at all, but I was hoping for your assistance with my missing dog, Willa. Would you be willing to hoping you send out an email alert to the neighborhood regarding my lost dog - you will also see her posted on several flyers in the area. A reward is being offered for information leading to her return.

Willa is a 20 lb. yellow lab mix. She is extremely shy and therefore, the ability for someone to catch her will be hard. If anyone sees her I would prefer they call with the sighting rather than chasing her. She has been missing since April 12th (we are on day 35), but recently spoted [sic] in the following locations:

May 7th and 8th - Jordan Park
May 13th - Jordan Park
May 14th - 26th and Logan

I've attached a flyer and can be reached at 612-356-9321 if anyone in the neighborhood has any information.

Any help you can extend would be great - Willa went missing while I was housesitting [sic] in the Willard-Hay neighborhood. We are from Maple Grove and therefore do not know any residents in the area so it has been difficult to get the word out.

Warm regards,
Robyn Meyer

Photo Journal: JACC Clean Sweep Part Three ~ The Beauty of the Jordan Neighborhood

2011-05-15T12:42:00.003-05:00

JACC Clean Sweep Committee Member Kelly Browne said:

"Because of the hard work of the volunteers

we are all waking up to a cleaner neighborhood."

A garage in the Jordan Neighborhood with a unique color collage.

During the clean sweep, I ran across a garage that contained this message to other Jordan neighbors and visitors: "I will study and get ready and someday my change will come."

A tulip garden that would compete

with some I have seen in Holland.

Lunch was a beautiful sight after a long ride on the trucks...

The love for Minneapolis runs deep for many...

Armadillos in the Jordan Neighborhood...

Photo Journal: JACC Clean Sweep Part Two ~ Doing the Dirty Work

2011-05-15T11:48:00.000-05:00

The Drivers were a key component

to the success of this year's clean-up project.

An extra special "THANK YOU" goes out to these

two gentlemen for their dedication all day long.

These were the trucks used to pick up the garbage ...

we filled two and half, plus collected over 100 tires!!!

JACC Clean Sweep volunteers were underway...

Yes, that is a piano...it was surprisingly heavy...

Some sights were rather unbelievable even with a picture...

After awhile, we started to notice a trend in the garbage...some piles looked as if entire houses were cleaned out. This was probably an unfortunate result of the downturn in the economy in Jordan.

Lifelong Jordan resident and JACC Clean Sweep volunteer

Bill Rannon cleaned up a vacant lot.

Here, it looked as though a entire

bedroom was put out on the curb...

One could see amazing amounts of garbage

out on the curb in the alleys.

We filled our truck with at least 20 mattresses...

Rolls of carpet were everywhere..second to chairs...

There was a great before and after moment at this property...

it was about the time my camera battery went dead...

BEFORE... and ...

AFTER!!

I ran across this sign on a garage...

the message did not seem to be too particularly friendly...

Of course we ran across one of

my neighborhood pet peeves...graffiti...

... but, that's okay...we picked up some of the good

graffiti remover at Home Depot the night before...

At the end of the day...there were a lot of dirty feet!!!

Minneapolis Fifth Ward Council Member Don Samuels

was there wearing the team colors!!

He took extensive notes of neighbors findings

during the JACC Clean Sweep de-brief.

As a bonus to JACC Clean Sweep volunteers,

Jennifer SWIFT offer $30 massages.

Visit www.massage-essential.com to make your appoints.

And now...the Jordan Neighborhood is a just a little bit cleaner because of the JACC Clean Sweep.

Photo Journal: JACC Clean Sweep Part One ~ The Volunteers & Call to Action

2011-05-15T08:41:00.000-05:00

Jordan neighbor Makeda Zulu-Gillespie and JACC Board Member Grant Jansons formed up the "Graffiti Abatement Team." I hope to do a post-abatement report later, but I hear the Team removed over 20 tags in less than two hours...mainly vandalism by "HC Paul-Z." We to go Graffiti Abatement Team!!

Jordan Neighborhood Block Club Captain and JACC Board Member James Kpoto distributed "We Watch, We Call" signs. He headed up one of the Garbage Pick-up Foot Patrol teams that collected massive yellow bags full of garbage on the street.

JACC Clean Sweep Committee Chair Eric Johnson kicked off the event with a call to action to a room full of volunteers. He then explained the neighborhood clean-up plan ... and ...

... explained the garbage pick-up routes to individual volunteers.

After the trucks arrived, the volunteers fanned out

into the neighborhood with green shirts and yellow bags in hand.

JACC Clean Sweep Was Nothing Short of AWESOME!!!!

2011-05-14T18:48:00.001-05:00

Today was the Jordan Neighborhood Clean Sweep sponsored by the Jordan Area Community Council. It was nothing short of AWESOME!!!! Check back for a H.C.-style Photo Journal and an update of the JACC Clean Sweep 2011 Stats. A huge congratulations goes out to JACC Clean Sweep Chair Eric Johnson and the committee for organizing the event.

Jordan Neighborhood Clean Sweep is TODAY!!!!

2011-05-14T08:06:00.000-05:00

Hello Jordan Friends & Neighbors,

This is a friendly reminder that TODAY is Clean Sweep. As a sort of kick-off, last night another Jordan neighbor and I went to Home Depot and picked up some graffiti removal and wire brushes. Well, we wanted to make sure it worked because, well, we did ask for the strongest stuff, and we wanted to be sure it worked (I was the skeptical one). We found some "HC Paul-Z" graffiti (like the graffiti here that was abated) and tried it out (click here for some good stats and tips on graffiti removal). Let me just say that in 3-5 minutes, it was...abated.

So, come on out...let's beautify the Jordan Neighbor...pick up trash and old tires, abate graffiti, meet neighbors and build a community together!!!!

H.C. {that is, Hillside Chronicles}

JACC Board of Directors Meeting of May 11, 2011

2011-05-11T20:08:00.000-05:00

In an extremely well organized and productive meeting of the Jordan Area Community Council (JACC) Board of Directors, there were several low trill action items: 1. the JACC Clean Sweep is this Saturday, 5.14.2011; 2. JACC is working on several social events for the neighborhood in the near future; there is about $50,000 (+ or - a few $) in the bank; 4. representatives from the North YMCA presented on several great events taking place in the neighboord (see photo) opened a dialog to partnering with JACC; 5. JACC discussed "artistic" bike racks; and 6. JACC convined the 2011 JACC Nominations Committee.

The Clouds on Hillside Avenue North Before The Hail Storm

2011-05-10T21:55:00.000-05:00

Today, before the hail storm, my wife and I managed to snap a couple of pictures for some really funky cool clouds in the sky...sometimes, you just have to appreciate the little things...

The "Blackstone + [Five Point Star Symbol]" Gang Graffiti -- I Saw That Last Year

2011-05-10T20:52:00.001-05:00

A concerned neighbor sent me a picture of some "Blackstone + [Five Point Star Symbol] graffiti that he came across today in the Jordan Neighborhood. I actually saw some of this sort of graffiti on Hillside last year, and wrote about it (click here for that post). In the Hillside version, it was put up by some obviously misguided youth, who were confronted by a couple of responsible adults with the black spray cans in hand.

There also was some gang-like graffiti in Cottage Park on the checker 'n chess board. In a related post, a JNS-reader named "Marz" took the position that misguided youth were responsible for the vandalism:

I sincerely doubt this is a sign of 2 gangs competeing for territory. Some 14-17 yr old kids graffitied it w/ a 5-pointer (probably Vice Lord or Blackstone, not Blood. Minneapolis black gangs are like 98% Chicago-based, not coastal-based.) and another kid/kids scratched it out. Maybe they're gangbangers, probably just wannabes. Again, NOT a turf war, a culture thing. This People Nation (red, 5-point) vs. Folk Nation (blue, 6-point) has been going on since the 80s. The young dumbs**ts dads, brothers, uncles, cousins, heck even grandpas claimed _____, so they claim _____, even if they're not involved in any criminal activity themselves. Very similar to Protestants and Catholics trash-talking each other. Trust me, this is a (f'd up) culture thing, not a gang-war invasion on this block. For more information consult your local internet at CHICAGOGANGS.ORG cause knowledge is power! [H.C. Note: All spelling and punctuation is original].

I agree with Marz's speculation that older minors were probably responsibly for the tagging the concerned neighbor found today. Regardless of their age, I retrieved the address and reported it to 311.

As a friendly reminder...please report all graffiti to 311 when you see it (you can click here to report it). If you are interested in more information and the reasons why reporting the graffiti is important, just click here. After all, the city tracks the information and make lots of cool graphs with the data (click here for an example).

Checking in On the Progress at 2026 James Avenue North

2011-05-10T06:35:00.000-05:00

There use to be a lower level window in the back...

Ahhh...but alas, we really need to get fix the concrete gang graffiti!!

First Annual Hillside Avenue Steak Cook-off: Jeff Skrenes WINS Best Dressed and H.C. co-WINS Best Steak!!

2011-05-09T21:57:00.001-05:00

[Post in Progress]

Where the grilling magic happened...

The Co-WINNING Steak

The other co-winner...steaktails.

Minneapolis City Council Member Don Samuels

Plenty of the good stuff on hand...

Three Questions with "Gazabo Jay" ~ 1522 Hillside Avenue North

2011-05-07T16:50:00.001-05:00

In a previous post (click here), I discussed the adventure I had with Gazabo Jay and the Hathrone Hawkman (and the dog) when we went to 1522 Hillside Avenue to check out the status of this vacant/boarded property. In a new series, "It's OKAY with Gazabo JAY," I will attempt to get some understanding of the issues at 1522 Hillside Avenue:

The Chimney

H.C.:

So, what's with the chimney?

Gazabo Jay:

1522 Hillside Ave has many issues, unfortunately we can only see the ones on the outside. First is the condition of the chimney. Quite a few bricks have come away and fallen to the ground. The obvious problem with this is the structural integrity of the stack itself. Next, how much moisture is this allowing entry INTO the house itself? Moisture left unchecked will destroy a house in months.

The Siding

H.C.:

Looks like there are some holes in the siding...is that an issue?

Gazabo Jay:

At first glance the siding appears to be made of asbestos. Someone has deliberately broken some of the siding pieces, and some holes have come about from neglect. IF the siding is in fact asbestos, the broken pieces means the siding has become friable, which means whoever is down wind is being exposed to asbestos. We've all seen the adds for the non-attorney spokesman for "Sokolove" law firm, enough said. The next issue, these holes allow MORE moisture to enter the wall of this house. The last item with broken or eroded siding is it creates an entry for pest like mice, rats, ants, etc.

Gutters & Downspouts

H.C.:

Hey, the gutters look like they are growing a wild garden up there...is that going to create some issues?

Gazabo Jay:

Yes. There are TREES growing out of the gutters, which means they have become filled with debris and no longer drain. If these gutters do not drain, they will fill up, over flow, and deposit the water that we tried to divert away from the house in the first place, right next to the foundation wall. Now, there are down spouts, but if the gutters were clean, it still wouldn't matter, because there are no elbows OR extensions at the bottom. The water would still deposit right next to the foundation wall. The reason we don't like this is because the water will soak into the ground and eventually find its way into the basement, via the foundation, through what is referred to as "capillary action".

H.C.: Yeah, that sounds like a lot of water.

Oh, my the way, Gazabo Jay is for hire. Feel free to send him an email at: jay_colstad@yahoo.com.

Really?? The Nuckleheads Are Stealing from Minneapolis PUBLIC SCHOOL Construction Site -- Lord Have Mercy!

2011-05-07T15:27:00.000-05:00

Come on! The Minneapolis Public Schools makes a huge commitment to the community by relocating its headquarters right here on West Broadway...in the Jordan Neighborhood....a multi-million dollar venture... a multi-million dollar development. It's not just a construction site, it's the center point of where decisions about our children's public education will be made...so, when one steals from this project in process...it's not just steal from a construction company...it's steal from our children's future... Lord have mercy...

CASE SUMMARY:

MPD ACTION ALERT - Case No. 11-120514

Case Year:

2011

Incident Location:

12** Broadway AV W [The Minneapolis Public School Headquarters!]

Date and Time:

4/29/2011 3:30:00 PM - 5/2/2011 8:00:00 AM

Offenses Recorded:

Burglary of Business

Public Information:

Police were called to the above address, which is a construction site, in regards to a break in of a job site trailer belonging to the electrical contractor/victim business. Entry to the site was made by cutting the chain link fence.

What's Wrong with 1522 Hillside Avenue? Well, Let's Ask "Gazabo Jay"

2011-05-05T22:16:00.004-05:00

The Chimney at 1522 Hillside Avenue North

After spending some time at the May Day celebration this past Sunday (click here for my Photo Journal of that event), I made my way back home to meet up with my friend "Gazabo Jay." He stopped over and we ended up watching the HGTV show "Holmes on Homes." My wife commented several times about how Gazabo Jay resembled Mike Holmes, and how -- with all the construction knowledge he shares -- he too could have a show. I jokingly suggested that the name of the show should be "It's OKAY with Gazabo JAY." He liked the title and then, in retort, suggested starting a blog with the title. We shall see if that happens... In the meantime, I thought I could do a feature on this blog called "Let's Ask Gazabo Jay." What I wanted to know was obvious..."What's wrong with 1522 Hillside Avenue?"

So, just as Gazabo Jay and I started to leave, the Hawthorne Hawkman stopped over. I, of course, invited the well known mortgage geek to join us, and we all (including the dog) took off for an adventure at 1522 Hillside Avenue.

I intend to leave some of the detailed findings for my next post where I ask Gazabo Jay specific questions detailing his impressions of the property. However, I hardly consider it to be a spoiler to say that at one point, I noticed a bunch of bricks laying around. I thought it is was odd, so I asked Gazabo Jay, essentially, what's this all about. He only pointed up ... towards the fireplace chimney. Ouch. As you can see from the photo, the chimney is definitely one of the things wrong with the 1522 Hillside Avenue. That's an issue.

Afterwards, we all returned to the house to eat home cooked beef soup that had been simmering all day long. Man, it was good...

Jordan Neighborhood Clean Sweep is May 14, 2011!

2011-05-02T19:36:00.000-05:00

Historic News: Osama Bin Laden Killed

2011-05-01T22:54:00.015-05:00

President Obama announced tonight at 10:30 p.m. that the 9/11 mastermind, the terrorist Osama Bin Laden, has been killed. In making the announcement, President Obama stated "Justice has been done." He added that Bin Laden was killed in Abbottabad, Paskistan. At the direction of the President, U.S. Navy Seals engaged a firefight, killed Bin Laden, and seized his body. CNN reported that no Americans were harmed in the operation. There were images showing hundreds of people celebrating outside of the White House.

So far, the funnest reaction I have heard is the following: [using President Obama voice] "Here's my birth certificate and here's Bin Laden's skull...so America, are we cool?"

Back in North Minneapolis, fireworks could be heard shortly after the President's speech...

Photo Journal: May Day Parade in Minneapolis 2011

2011-05-01T17:13:00.007-05:00

Happy May Day !!!

Photo Journal: Bavarian Style Wood Stacks

2011-05-01T11:50:00.003-05:00

This year, as a part of my continued plan to develop my backyard garden, I want to consider a more permanent firewood shelter. In my most recent trip to the Bavarian Alps this past month, I really took in an interest in the many practical, artistic and traditional styles of stacking fire wood. Here are a few...

This is the side attachment to the garage...with a simple garden.

I like the "off the ground" feature this free standing style provides...

This wood stack really embodies the concept of "order."

For me, there's a serene feeling from seeing precisely stacked wood. It's all the time and energy it took in cutting and stacking. It could be one of many identifiable cultural element in the NoMi experience....

From East to West, Reports of HESH Crew Graffiti on West Broadway

2011-04-30T08:35:00.002-05:00

Photo Contributed by a Neighbor

After the brief reports on this blog of the goofy HESH Crew graffiti that appeared on West Broadway (click here for an example sample) and its abatement (click here and here), a couple of neighbors contacted me to report even more follies of the roaming-and-tagging menace with the same initials as this blog.

Above is a contributed photo by a H.C. (that is Hillside Chronicles) reader and Jordan neighbor. According to him, there are five or so light poles on a two block stretch tagged with the HESH Crew scrawling on Broadway and Polk in North East Minneapolis.

Photo by H-Chronicles

Then, another individual pointed out the "PAULZ" tagging on the corner of West Broadway and Penn Avenue North (the second photo).

Based on the information that has come me so far, I strongly suspect that this individual doesn't live in the area ... that this individual sees the area as a place to play "graffiti artist" and contribute to the degradation of the area, rather than the uplifting of it.

That, as my father would put it, is a sad commentary.

The Skidmarks on Hillside were Caused by a Man Disturbing the Peace

2011-04-28T22:56:00.001-05:00

The Skidmarks

Let me see if I can explain how these tire marks came to be on Hillside Avenue this evening around 9:30 p.m. It all started when my wife and I were peacefully sitting on the couch, winding down the evening by watching a little T.V. I started to doze off, when we started to hear some music "bumpin."

It was strange, but when the person started to honk the car horn, my wife when outside to ask the person to stop before the baby woke up. By the time she was half way down the block, the man was yelling profanity and then got out of his car snf hopped onto of the hood of his car, and yelled even louder. Almost in one swoop, the man removed his shirt.

Wearing only a white sleeveless tank top, checkered shorts, and white tennis shoes, the man became more animated. My wife made an about face move, and started running up the hill. "He has a gun in waistband," she said. The man continued to yell and jump on the hood of the car while up to eight others men started to gather in the lawn of the white duplex.

This is a picture of the car's headlights

Then, as strangely as he appeared, the man jumped into car, and revved up the engine. The tires started to spin...and thick white smoke appeared from the ground. In an instant, the car fled off, leaving...the tire marks you see in the photo above.

The neighbors quickly gathered outside expressing our irritation. The police did show up pretty quickly and took some statement. Our council member and neighbor, Don Samuels went to talk to the tenants to let them know that this is not acceptable behavior (believe it or not, these new neighbors do not get that). They, of course, proclaimed their innocence - "we don't even know that guy."

I have to wonder if the woman on the lease understands that she is responsible for the behavior of her gentleman callers.

Hmmm...Hennepin County Now Owns 1522 Hillside Avenue North, Which Means It's Only a Matter of Time Before It's Demolished

2011-04-28T01:39:00.002-05:00

In the past years, much of my personal time has be dedicated to revitalizing my neighborhood, a community for which I still hold a deep commitment to uplifting ~ even after ridiculous attempts to curb my involvement manifested itself through frivolous law suits, which, of course, FAILED (here is one as an example). Anyway, I specifically focus on my block, or what I have often times referred to as the "wing span" area, which includes 1522 Hillside Avenue North.

Over the past years, I have advocated for razing this building because of its poor structure and lack of ANY investor willing to put forward a PLAN and MONEY to restore it to its former glory (click here for that public statement). Hell, I've even been willing to take the property off of my "should be demolished list" if someone brought forward a credible and do-able plan (click here to refresh your memory of that post).

...but alast, nothing has happened...

Yesterday, while walking the dog, I came cross an illegally dumped refrigerator at 1522 Hillside Avenue, and wrote about it, here. I reported the dumping to 311.

Towards the end of the day, a neighbor contacted me, and provided more information about the dumping. According to this neighbor, the illegal activity happened in the past couple of days. Someone in a truck pulled up, dumped the refrigerator out of the vehicle and drove off. That's frustrating!

The dumped refrigerator

In checking e-mails, I received a rather informative message from 311. Here's what it said:

Dear Resident,

We appreciate your email.

We have reviewed the records for this Hennepin County owned property and determined that Housing Inspections is currently addressing this issue.

If there is anything else we can help you with please contact us. Thank you for emailing the City of Minneapolis.

Looks like some good came of all this mess...I now know that the County owns the building!!! That probably means that it is only a matter of time before the city acquires the property from the county and demolishes it (sigh of relief...).

When the city acquires the property, I'll be sure to get out my "demolishing-goggles" and get ready to be accused of suffering from some faux demolition syndrum or having the wrong head attached to my body ... again.

Illegal DUMPING at 1522 Hillside Avenue...AGAIN (Refrigerator Addition)

2011-04-27T08:28:00.003-05:00

As I walked the dog this morning, I was sadly reminded of the problems and nuisance 1522 Hillside Avenue attracts. Illegal dumping seems to be one the main contributors to the unpleasantness of this boarded/abandoned/vacant property on the block. It wasn't but 8 months ago that someone illegal dumped what appeared to be their bedroom in the backyard (click here for the documented photos of that event).

While it appears that our illegal dumpers gave us the "courtesy" of removing the refrigerator doors, it's hardly worth considering as a mitigating factor in the overall assessment of the situation. After all, the city will pickup old refrigerators as apart of the weekly garbage collection, so one has to wonder if the dumpers -- and their intrusive garbage -- are from outside the city limits.

The truth is, this house needs to be demolished this year. Since the last time that I wrote about this property, absolutely NOTHING has been done to bring it into a habitable condition. Not one investor has come forward to put money on the table to rehab the house or drawn up plans to fix the property. The only thing that has changed...is the addition of the refrigerator to the junk in the backyard. Nice!

Given the fact that the Jordan Neighborhood has 501 vacant properties out of 2,500 + it's time stop seeing revitalization to abandoned/vacant properties such as this monstrosity as extreme, and just raze it!

There will still be 500 other vacant properties...

Finally -- “H.C." Graffiti on West Broadway in North Minneapolis Abated

2011-04-27T07:51:00.002-05:00

About a month ago, I reported on the odd graffiti on West Broadway, tagged with initials "H.C." (click here for that post). The goofy graffiti was "kind of, sort of " abated a few weeks later (click here for the post).

Finally, the "sort of" abatement has been "officially" abated (see above).

...and I say...

There shall be only one "H.C." -- it stands for "Hillside Chronicles" -- the blog-of-the-block.

Yes! The Sign is Up: "Laughing Duck Pond"

2011-04-25T08:03:00.000-05:00

POST IN PROGRESS...(But the photos tell most of the story anyway)

The Story of Irving Avenue Resident-Robber (Oh yeah...Insert Allegedly into that Title)

2011-04-23T05:14:00.003-05:00

Something tells me the Cops didn't use a

magical crystal ball to solve this mystery...

This is just one of those times that fact is stranger than fiction. In fact, you really couldn't make this sort of fiction up without it being considered extreme, or just plain silly...ironically, not factual. But, behold, this is the MPD Action Alert...and yes...you will notice that the incident took place on 26th Avenue and Irving, and the person arrest ed lives on...wait for it...26th Avenue and Irving. Hmmm...is there a resident-robber on 26th and Irving?

I really don't know if this should be categorized as "not well planned" or "stupid criminals." Well, you read the case summary, and come to your own conclusion...

Case Year: 2011 Case No. 107189

Incident Location: 26 AV N Irving AV N
Date and Time: 4/19/2011 10:38:00 PM - 4/19/2011 10:40:00 PM
Offenses Recorded: Robbery of Person - -

Public Information:

The Victim was approached by the 2 Suspects and AP from behind. The AP told the Victim to given them everything he had. The Victim was then hit over the head by the Suspects. The Suspects and AP went through the Victims pockets and stole his wallet and ...

Arrested Parties, if any (name - age / Address AptNo City, State Zip):

JUVENILE - 14

Anthony Mason - 19 / 002627 Irving AV N Minneapolis, MN 44511 [sic]
Taiye Terry - 19 / Unknown
Cedric Banks - 23 / Unknown

A Message to EARTH from HILLSIDE

2011-04-23T04:30:00.005-05:00

Dear EARTH:

Please come join me here this fine morning...

Please, take in the environment....it's okay to listen to the birds chirping or look at the pretty flowers blooming...

...would you like to sit next to the nice stone lion statue?

Peaceful isn't it?

Well, now that I have your attention, I really need you to know that if you're over on Broadway and Emerson doing the sorts of activities that the MPD Action Alert from April 19th indicates, it really takes away from the safe and peaceful environment my family deserves.

And really, don't you think it's a bit much if you have drawn the attention of the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)? Really, I think you may need to re-evaluate your direction in life. Well, you might not have known that the DEA applied for a warrant to get you, but they did...then, the police sent out a notice to everyone in the neighborhood and told us about your alleged criminal activity...and, well, that's I found out.

Soooo....it doesn't seem like that is going well for you. While you are in jail, you don't actually get to sit in garden, hear the bird singing or smell the flowers...it probably isn't very peaceful either...and it likely generates a lot of stress...so...

PLEASE STOP!!!

All the Best,

Hillside

P.S., Here's the case summary:

Case Year: 2011 Case No. 106687

Incident Location: Broadway AV W Emerson AV N

Date and Time: 4/19/2011 10:00:00 AM - 4/19/2011 11:00:00 AM
Offenses Recorded: Narcotics - Warrant -

Public Information:

AP1 Matthews was placed under arrest for Federal Narcotics WT. DEA Agents took custody of Matthews.

Arrested Parties, if any (name - age / Address AptNo City, State Zip):

Earth Matthews - 33 / 002309 Chicago AV S 1 Minneapolis

More “H.C." Graffiti in North Minneapolis Abated...Sort of...

2011-04-16T14:34:00.000-05:00

About two and half weeks ago, I reported on the odd graffiti on West Broadway, tagged with initials "H.C." (click here for that post and here for the other "H.C." related post). That goofy graffiti now seems to have been abated in a...well..."kind of, sort of " way. I guess now, we will see if we can get the abatement abated. Oh, and since my last post, a commenter using the handle "Ray" confirmed this blog's "google research" that the "H.C." stands for "HESH Crew" (so sorry to disappoint you, NoMi Passenger).

BTW, if anyone wishes to share the real identity of anyone associated with "HESH Crew," this blog will gladly give those graffiti "Artists" credit for their work...

ECFE Toy and Book Swap - TODAY 2-4 at Hall Elementry School

2011-04-15T09:00:00.003-05:00

"Building Blocks For Family and School Success."

Hello everyone! What better to do on an overcast day than come to the ECFE Toy and Book Swap. This event will be held at Elizabeth Hall Elementry School (1601 Aldrich Avenue North) from 2 to 4pm -- TODAY (Friday, April 15, 2011)!

All toys and books are .25 cents! Who can beat that price!? Get your garage sale loving self in gear for some savings.

All proceeds go the Minneapolis ECFE Noth PAC. ECFE is a wonderful program for your pre-school aged children.

Mysterious "H.C." Graffiti Removed!

2011-04-14T06:57:00.002-05:00

This is a great way to kick off the spring...it was but just a couple of days ago that I notice a lot of tagging in North Minneapolis (NoMi) by a individual using the name "PaulZee." When I went on a bicycle ride with my son, I took a couple of pictures of the graffiti, and...attempted to procure favorable government action...by submitting my request to 311 for the immediate removal of this vandalism. As you can see from this photo, the "H.C." graffiti that was on a wooden fence overlooking 94 has been abated (click here for the "before" picture). Now that was quick. Thank you graffiti abatement team!!!

It Must Be Spring...

2011-04-11T07:40:00.001-05:00

Well, maybe not with this slightly chilly Minneapolis weather; but, take a rather pleasant drive 73 miles south, where the temperature was 80 degrees yesterday, and you'll definitely get the feeling that spring is here ... Please see Exhibit A as evidence ... a digital photo of the potted daffodils I took yesterday at the "Grandma" and "Grandpa's" house ...

Thank You to my Neighbor for the Early Birthday Present

2011-04-08T18:01:00.001-05:00

Words can hardly articulate the amount of gratitude I feel for the early birthday present I received from my neighbor last night (see left). It literally took my neighbor two years to put this layered cross-stitched pattern together. It is a tribute to my fondness for Buddhist philosophy, manicured landscapes, and the peace we all strive for in North Minneapolis (NoMi).

I am grateful for the energy that went into this present and have found a prominent place in my living room for it to be displayed to all that visit...

Here's Another Shooting Incident...MPD ACTION ALERT - Case No. 11-092505

2011-04-07T07:59:00.000-05:00

Folks, here's something interesting we can glean from this report...it is extremely important to call 911 ABSOLUTELY EVERY SINGLE TIME YOU HEAR GUN SHOTS:

Case Year: 2011 Case No. 092505

Incident Location: 21** 30 AV N

Date and Time: 4/6/2011 8:05:00 PM - 4/6/2011 8:10:00 PM

Offenses Recorded: Assault degree 2 - Discharge weapon -

Public Information:

Officers responded to the above address to investigate a report of shots fired that was initially reported by Shotspotter before being confirmed by residents in the neighborhood who called 911.

Police Seize Yet Another Gun: MPD ACTION ALERT - Case No. 11-090162

2011-04-07T07:58:00.001-05:00

Looks like there was more police action around the corner from Hillside Avenue. Here is the MPD Action Alert:

Case Year: 2011 Case No. 090162

Incident Location: 22** Irving AV N

Date and Time: 4/4/2011 4:59:00 PM - 4/4/2011 5:10:00 PM

Offenses Recorded: Ill poss handgun - -

Public Information: Male booked JDC for illegal possesion of a handgun.

Arrested Parties: JUVENILE - 17

For questions, contact:

Jennifer Waisanen, Crime Prevention Specialist
Minneapolis Police Department, 4th Precinct
(612) 673-5873
jennifer.waisanen@ci.minneapolis.mn.us

Shooter caught this afternoon on Hillside Avenue

2011-04-06T15:07:00.000-05:00

At 11:11am, luck would have it for the Minneapolis Police Department that a shooter was apprehended today. The details are still unknown, but the below photos captures the moment:

Gun Shots on the 16XX Block of Hillside

2011-04-05T23:26:00.002-05:00

Just a few minutes ago, the calmness of the evening was disturbed by two gun shots coming from the direction of the 16XX Block of Hillside. The shots were separated by a longer pause...which leads me to suspect a revolver rather than a semi-automatic pistol.

Three police cars arrived immediately and sat idling with their headlights off in the parked position before driving off in different directions.

We Need Public Art Like "The Entreptreneur" for the Irving Triangle

2011-04-05T22:51:00.000-05:00

Above is a statue in Minneapolis called "The Entrepreneur" by Dean Kermit Allison. I am advocate for some sort of public art or other artistic structure in the Minneapolis Park & Rec. property know as the Irving Triangle, located at the corner of Irving and 22nd Avenue, and I am keeping an eye out for something to fit the area and property. And so, this particular statue intrigued me...to the point that I took a short pause in my busy day today to read the description. A few stuck with me all day...

"As we continue to study this figure of bronze, it becomes obvious that the blindfold has been no impediment to this progress. His instinct has been remarkable. His enemies have not been able to stop him. He has overcome his mistake." I couldn't help but think of the struggles in North Minneapolis (NoMi) for development and revitalization ~ structurally and culturally. Our blindfold seems to be symbolic for the exploitation of perceived weaknesses... we invite others over with open arms, only to have our good deeds go unreturned. But, overall, instinctively we do find those who return our good deeds...and we don't give up on pushing for progress...neither long exhausting community meetings, court battles that test and reveal loyalties, or neighborhood nuisances such as innercity gun fire, prostitution or drug-dealing stop us. We overcome it, because this our home.

The description continued, "The greatest danger is in his own hands. The angle of this chisel is far too aggressive. It seems the rapid removal of such a volume of stone requires a chisel judged by many to be much too direct. Spectators continue to gather and watch with mounting interest...will next stroke be the one that cuts off at the knee?"

Sometimes the strategies we implement for change are successful...and sometimes, we take a hit. If the proposition is too forward, or we move too quickly with our desire for change, it engenders push back and misinterpretation. This had me contemplate the many opinions that were voiced about what we should do with the remnants of 1564 Hillside Avenue. To speak out about the history of this house which was full of strife, and yet doomed to be demolished, was in essence the "chisel judged by many to be much too direct." Still, people were interested, and read on...watching trials unfold with the many twists and turns of unknown direction and resolution...leaving "spectators" to continue to wonder what would the "next stroke" bring...