Thousands of Census jobs available in metro area

url:	Thousands of Census jobs available in metro area

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Between now and next spring, the U.S. Census Bureau will hire thousands of people in the Twin Cities metro area. 

The positions are good paying, temporary jobs that range from $11.50 to $20.00 per hour plus mileage for the field positions of Recruiting Assistants, Crew Leaders, Crew Leader Assistants and Census Takers. The pay for Census Clerks range from $7.50 to $12.75 per hour depending on location. There may be some opportunities for advancement.

Positions are available in many communities throughout the metro area. The Minneapolis Census office is looking to hire people in all neighborhoods throughout the city who have diverse backgrounds and/or the ability to speak multiple languages. The U.S. Census Bureau encourages interested persons to apply for these jobs by calling the Toll Free Jobs Line at 1-866-861-2010.

To be considered for these positions, applicants must pass a 30-minute test that focuses on critical reading, math, and clerical skills. Census leaders are encouraging people to sign up early to take the practice exam and to take it more than once.

Free test prep classes will be held every Saturday from 10 a.m. – noon at the Redeemer Missionary Baptist located at 116 E. 32nd St. For more information, call 612-823-1081.

An additional one-time test prep class has also been scheduled on Jan. 13 from 1 – 3 p.m. at Eastside Neighborhood Services – 1700 2nd St NE.

For those who can’t attend a test prep class, practice tests are available on the U.S. Census Web site.

Celebrate a family-friendly New Year’s Eve at Wirth Park

What:	New Year’s Eve Party
When:	Thursday, Dec. 31 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Where:	Theodore Wirth Recreational Area 1301 Theodore Wirth Parkway
url:	http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=52&prid=1132
contact:	Janell Wojtowicz Communication Specialist 612-230-6414 jwojtowicz@minneapolisparks.org

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Ring out the old year at the Theodore Wirth Winter Recreation Area’s New Year’s Eve Party from 5-9 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 31.

With plenty of snow and cold temperatures, the Wirth Winter Recreation Area is the perfect place for outdoor winter fun, so make plans for an evening of cross country skiing, tubing and snowboarding. Free desserts, coffee, hot chocolate and cider will be available at the Fireplace Room at Wirth Chalet, located at 1301 Theodore Wirth Parkway.

The evening features free tubing and snowboarding for youth under age 18. Adults can rent tubes for $8 (save $4) and snowboards for $10 (save $3). Equipment is available for rent, including board, boots, bindings and helmet at a discounted package rate of $6 (save $11).

A free one-hour snowboarding clinic is available for the entire family beginning at 6:30 p.m. Space is limited, so reservations are required; call 763-522-4584 to reserve a spot. Those renting equipment for the clinic need to arrive prior to 5:30 p.m. for fitting.

Representatives will be in attendance to give a brief introduction to the programming offered at the Wirth Winter Recreation Area. Also learn about the Fireplace Room at Wirth Chalet, which features full service catering.

About Snowboarding – Located behind the Wirth Chalet, the park features snowmaking capability and lighted hills. There are rails and boxes for all skill levels and even a kiddy snowboard park for beginners young and not so young.

About Cross Country Skiing – Wirth has 25 kilometers of trails. Depending upon conditions, trails are groomed for both classical style and skate skiing. There are a range of trails, from beginner to advanced. The Back-9 section includes a 2+ kilometer lighted loop with snowmaking capabilities.

About Tubing – The tubing hill at Wirth Winter Recreation Area features lighted, groomed lanes and a tow rope. For more information on the Wirth Winter Recreation Area, visit theodorewirth.org.

NENA’s 10th-annual Night Before New Year’s Eve Party on Wednesday, December 30

What:	NENA’s 10th-annual Night Before New Year’s Eve Party
When:	Wednesday, December 30 5:00 – 8:0 p.m.
Where:	Nokomis Community Center 2401 East Minnehaha Parkway Extra parking is available in the overflow lot East of the Center, and below the center along Nokomis Parkway (overflow parking map)
url:	http://www.nokomiseast.org/hood/hoodies/NBNYEP10.html

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NENA and the Nokomis Community Center/Minneapolis Parks and Recreation are proud to once again co-sponsor this annual community party. The entire event is free, but donations are appreciated. Families throughout the Twin Cities area and out-of-town guests are welcome.

Highlights include hayrides behind the beautiful white Percheron Horses, marshmallow roasting at the bonfire, the legendary fish pond, games with prizes (basketball shoot, bowling, golf, cup stacking and more), crafts, fortune telling, live music, and a strolling magician. The ever-popular DJs from KidsDance will be back, spinning tunes with dance contests and prizes for kids of all ages. Refreshments include hotdogs with all the fixings including Laura's Famous Chilidog chili, chips, cookies, draft root beer and hot chocolate. Father Time will make an appearance to help ring in the New Year with the traditional countdown complete with noisemakers.

• Hay Rides
• Bonfire
• Food
• Live Music
• KidsDance DJ & Dance Contests
• Prizes
• Carnival Games
• Face Painting
• Fortune Teller
• Balloon Magician
• Crafts

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2009 Schedule of Activities

Bonfire and Marshmallows	5:00-8:00 p.m.
Crafts and Games	5:00-7:50 p.m.
Southwest High School Jazz Combo	5:00-6:00 p.m.
Hayrides	5:30-7:30 p.m
Facepainting Fortune Telling Storytelling (tentative)	5:30-7:30 p.m.
Strolling Magician	6:00-7:30 p.m.
KidsDance	6:00-7:50 p.m.
“Count Down to the New Year!”	7:50-8:00 p.m.

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The success of the NBNYE Party is dependent on a large volunteer team. Volunteer areas include:

• Greeting
• Games in the gym
• Food prep and service
• Crafts area
• Outside activities (bonfire and hayride)
• Setup (Dec. 30 in the afternoon)
• Cleanup

Teresa Thomas-Carroll, a long-time NBNYE attendee and volunteer says this of her experience, “Volunteering for NBNYE is an easy and fun way to support the Nokomis East Neighborhood. The commitment is as little as one hour, which I can easily handle, and it leaves me with the rest of the time to enjoy the event with my family. I like having a role as a volunteer because it helps me meet even more people in our wonderful neighborhood.”

If you can help with setup or for a 1-1/2 hour shift during the event, please call the NENA office at (612) 724-5652 or send Rita an email at rulrich@nokomiseast.org. Please indicate any preferences in terms of area assignment and time of shift. We will get back to you with details of your assignment.

Minneapolis Fast Facts

CPED has recently released its update to "Minneapolis Fast Facts" which presents the latest annual statistics on city population, housing inventory, jobs and personal income. You can view the document here:

http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/docs/Minneapolis_Fast_Facts.pdf

Robert Cooper
Senior NRP/Citizen Participation Specialist
City of Minneapolis, Finance Department
Development Finance Division
105 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 200
Minneapolis, MN 55401

(612) 673-5239
(612) 673-5212 (fax)

Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival takes flight Jan 9

What:	Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival
When:	Saturday, January 9   Noon – 4:00 p.m.
Where:	North end of Lake Harriet near the Bandshell,  located at 4135 W Lake Harriet Pkwy
url:	http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=52&prid=1121
Contact:	Kirk Marshall  Public Information Intern  612-230-6410  kmarshall@minneapolisparks.org  or:  Janell Wojtowicz  Communication Specialist  612-230-6414  jwojtowicz@minneapolisparks.org

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Winter fun with strings attached – for kite flying and ice fishing

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board will hold the ninth annual Lake Harriet Winter Kite Festival on Saturday, Jan 9; from noon to 4 p.m. Kites of all shapes, sizes, colors and themes will fly over frozen Lake Harriet. But there’s more fun to be had on the ice – and even underneath it! Other fun family activities at the festival include ice fishing, horse-drawn wagon rides, snowshoeing, a kid’s medallion hunt and a marshmallow roast.

Festival sponsors include the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the Minnesota Kite Society, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the East Harriet Farmstead Neighborhood Association, People for Parks and the Linden Hills Neighborhood Council.

Minnesota Kite Society experts will demonstrate their skills maneuvering spectacular kites throughout the day, and offer their expertise to kite flying enthusiasts and to those who are new to the pastime. Bring your own kite, or buy an inexpensive one at the lake.

The DNR Ice Fishing Expo will teach kids ice fishing skills and safety tips; the DNR will provide all the equipment needed to participate.

The festival will take place on the north end of Lake Harriet near the Bandshell, located at 4135 W. Lake Harriet Parkway; admission is free. In case of extreme weather or poor ice conditions, the event will be re-scheduled for Jan. 16. More information is available at www.minneapolisparks.org or call the Winter Kite Festival Hotline, 612-370-4948.

2010 Minneapolis & Saint Paul Home Tour wants your home!

The 2010 Minneapolis & Saint Paul Home Tour is looking for homeowners and home improvement professionals who would like to put their homes on the Tour. Nomination/applications are due Thursday, January 21, 2010, and early submissions are encouraged. The Tour, in its 23rd year, will be held Saturday and Sunday, April 24 and 25, 2010.

Past participating homeowners have said they “liked the incentive” to get their home improvement projects done in time for the tour, though it is not necessary to have remodeled the whole house. “It was nice to get all the compliments from strangers to reinforce what I’d heard from friends and family,” said one homeowner.

“Contractors often help staff the homes, and homeowners ask their families and friends to contribute a few hours,” said Margo Ashmore, Tour coordinator. “A good support network hosting the home makes it fun. Talk it up at winter gatherings. Community leaders also should start now, identifying individuals or clusters of well-kept and remodeled homes to ask to participate.”

Contractors and other vendors may nominate homes they have worked on, and are encouraged to call for more information. Green, energy efficient, and historically-sensitive remodels and expansions get special notice. Minneapolis Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) manages the tour as a celebration of city living that encourages homeowners to improve existing homes. Many organizations and businesses sponsor the tour.

For more information, call Tour Coordinator Margo Ashmore at 612-673-5103 or email her at link@nrp.org. The application can be downloaded from www.MSPHomeTour.com under “nominate.”

Non-profit organizations may also be interested in a new opportunity: The Tour will offer four workshops in the hour prior to the tour on topics of green building, historic preservation/renovation, planning a whole-house rehab, hiring professionals, or others you may suggest. For more information on the opportunity to present a workshop, write to Margo Ashmore at link@nrp.org.

Beltrami Neighborhood Council seeks NRP Consultant

Request for Proposals Beltrami Neighborhood Council

NRP Consultant

The Beltrami Neighborhood Council, the governing board of the Beltrami Neighborhood in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is in search of a contract consultant that will work with the Council to finish all administrative and close out work on the Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) Phase I and to initiate, setup, and execute programming on NRP Phase II for the neighborhood.

Contractual Duties

Phase I

• Evaluate NRP Phase I as it currently stands.
• Recommend spending changes, shifts in funding and other necessities to full expend all Phase I dollars or transfer them to Phase II projects.
• Complete and finalize all Phase I outstanding contacts. Ensure the closure of all contracts.
• Initiate any new contracts and/or work, as decided on by the Council, as seen fit to expend all remaining Phase I funds.

Phase II

• Gather all necessary input and facilitate all necessary community involved to write the Beltrami Neighborhood NRP Phase II plan.
• Assist the board in the evaluation and merit of all proposals to decide on the most appropriate activities to be carried out with Phase II funding.
• Ensure all processes are in place to carry out the approved Phase II plan.

Deliverables

• Closeout and completion of all Phase I contracts.
• Any and all final written reports to the City of Minneapolis regard Phase I.
   – Initial final report already submitted.
• Completed and submitted written plan for NRP Phase II funding to the City of Minneapolis.
• Processes setup and documented for the spending of all Phase II funding.

Working Relationships
The contractor will work directly with the Beltrami Neighborhood Council and will report to the Council. Any and all decisions will be made by the Council at monthly meetings (1st Monday of each month). The Council will expect that all relevant information is provided by the contractor and that their advice in the in the best interests of the Neighborhood as a whole. The Chairperson and Secretary of the Board will be the contact persons for questions and guidance when the Board is in between meetings.

Evaluations of proposals
The proposals for this contractual position will be base upon the following criteria:

1. (50%) Minneapolis NRP experience. Including working with other neighborhood organizations in finalizing Phase I dollars and completing plans for Phase II funding.
2. (30%) Proposed timeline to completion of duties. The Board is looking to have all tasks completed and authorization to start spending NRP Phase II funding by June 1, 2010 if not sooner.
3. (20%) Costs.

Submission of Proposals
If you are interested in submitting a proposal to work as a consultant, in contract with the Beltrami Neighborhood Council, for the purposed described above, please mail you complete proposal to:

Beltrami Neighborhood Council
NRP Consultant Search
PO Box18297
Minneapolis, MN 55418

All proposals must be received by December 30, 2009. The Council will be interviewing and making hiring decisions during the month of January, 2010 with final approval of the hiring decision done by the full Council at their regular February 1, 2010 meeting.

Questions can be directed to Daniel DuHamel, Secretary / Treasurer, (djduhamel@comcast.net).

Recreating an Early Twin Cities Christmas on December 10

What:	Recreating an Early Twin Cities Christmas By James Neagbour
Description:	Historic Preservation Seminar Series  Co-Sponsored By Lowry Hill East Neighborhood Association and   The Minneapolis Historic Homeowners Association
Where:	Jefferson Auditorium  Jefferson Community School   1200 W 26th St, Minneapolis
When:	Thursday, Dec 10, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
How Much:	$3.00
Contact:	For more information, call the LHENA office at 612-377-5023.
url:	www.thewedge.org  www.histhome.org

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Many people today wish to experience or recreate an early Christmas. They crave those bygone days of a simpler life, a more memorable time, an old-fashioned Christmas in the Twin Cities. We will look at the celebration of Christmas in the metropolitan area from 1850 to 1940. The comparing of old traditions, decorations, gifts and even the preparation of the Christmas dinner, with those of today, may surprise you. You will learn how to capture an old fashioned Twin Cities Christmas and recreate it for yourself. One-hour slide presentation.

Upcoming meeting of the Neighborhood and Community Engagement Commission (NCEC) on December 15

When:	Tuesday, December 15, 2009   5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Where:	North Regional Library  1315 Lowry Ave North  Minneapolis, MN 55411

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December meeting materials are available at www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ncr/NCEC_Meetings.asp

Commission meetings are open to the public. If you would like to learn more about the commission, visit www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/ncr/NCEC_Home.asp

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Jennifer Lastoka
Community Engagement Coordinator
City of Minneapolis

NRP Policy Board Report November 2009

• Approved Lyndale Neighborhood Phase I and Phase II plan modification reallocating $335,989.78 of original NRP funds and $430,740.91 of program income to Phase II strategies and closing out most of the neighborhood’s NRP Phase I.
• Adopted 2010 NRP Administrative Budget
• Received and filed the Nov. 19 Policy Board neighborhood rep election results

NRP Policy Board Report October 2009

• Approved waiver of NRP Phase II threshold requirements for Lind Bohanon Neighborhood, allowing Lind Bohanon to proceed to Phase II Participation Agreement with $141,200 in uncontracted Phase I funds for Lyndale Corridor Streetscape on hold until the street is repaved.
• Approved St. Anthony West NRP Phase II Neighborhood Action Plan at $224,642
• Received status report on Directors and Officers insurance.

“By the People” Starts Video Series on Neighborhood Revitalization History

Over the last twenty years, Minneapolis residents have been planning for their neighborhoods and carrying out projects through the NRP. By the People: The Neighborhood Revitalization Program is a multi-episode look back at those twenty years created for community television in Minneapolis.

The first episode, called The Neighborhood Action Plan, looks at the process neighborhoods go though to develop their neighborhood plans. This episode plays every Friday night at 6:30 p.m. on MTN Channel 17, which is available to cable subscribers in Minneapolis. It is also available for viewing at www.mtn.org. Find it directly at http://tinyurl.com/y8m7m88.

Upcoming episodes will look at NRP projects in areas like housing, economic development, and community building. Look for these over the next few months.

These programs feature video collected over the last 18 years for the 106 episodes of the Minneapolis Neighborhood News. This cable TV program, a collaboration between NRP and MTN, has reported on neighborhood NRP efforts with interviews and video from the meetings and events neighbors have held to build and carry out their NRP plans.

An archive of Minneapolis Neighborhood News shows was set up on the MTN web site. You can find a link to it on the mtn.org page, or visit http://tinyurl.com/yzg8zzt.

Directors & Officers Insurance Update

In October, NRP was informed that the carrier of our D&O (Directors and Officers) insurance would no longer be providing this type of coverage to NRP and its neighborhood organizations.

In 1997 the NRP Office was asked, by a number of neighborhood association leaders, to help address a growing problem: obtaining insurance to help protect officers and members of the board from the legal costs associated with defending themselves or their organization from lawsuits. Securing Directors and Officers (D & O) Insurance was becoming increasingly difficult and expensive. NRP was able to find an underwriter, negotiate coverage limits and terms, and get a premium significantly lower than could be obtained by individual neighborhood organizations.

Neighborhoods were allowed to “opt in” to coverage under the Master Certificate and NRP’s Central Office incorporated the premium payment into its regular budget.

Forty five (45) neighborhoods signed on for the first offering and the program has been offered, under different carriers, for the past 12 years. Several years ago the insurance program was successfully expanded to include employee liability coverage. In 2009, the NRP Policy Board and 70 neighborhood associations were enrolled at an average premium of $693.

With only one claim (in 2009) in 12 years, neighborhood organizations have been excellent risks. This year NRP has been informed that our current carrier will no longer be offering coverage to NRP. Since the current policy covers neighborhoods through March 30, 2010 the search for a new carrier had to begin immediately. NRP is using a variety of brokers and agents to identify potential carriers and every effort will be made to secure an insurance package similar to the one NRP currently offers. An informational session was held for all neighborhoods on October 29 and 65 neighborhood organizations filled out questionnaires describing their organizations, personnel structure, and activities to help potential underwriters to assess the opportunity to provide this coverage.

Self-insurance with a reinsurance policy to help with claim costs is also being considered. NRP Director Bob Miller has indicated that “securing coverage at a reasonable level and cost will be a difficult task” but he is “cautiously optimistic” that a new program will be in place by March.

The major reason for the insurance program is to protect neighborhood organization board members, officers and employees against the legal costs that are incurred for frivolous and inappropriate lawsuits and legal actions. State law limits damages that may be assessed but the costs of defense are not limited by statute.

Live MSP Looking for Your Suggestions

Over the past six months, the website livemsp.org has had more than 26,000 visits from people looking for information about Minneapolis and Saint Paul neighborhoods, housing purchase and renovation programs, and city living. Visitors are digging into the content, viewing nearly 120,000 pages, with almost a third returning for additional visits.

Live MSP program director Mary Kay Bailey notes, “As Live MSP continues to evolve, we want to make sure that the website is on target for consumers. We are looking for user feedback and suggestions to continually improve the content, organize the site, and make it the go-to resource for people interested in MSP city life.”

Bailey is looking for ideas from neighborhood organizations for how to improve the website and other Live MSP outreach efforts. “It’s the individual neighborhoods that make up our cities, they are a selling point, and I want to make sure that Live MSP is helping them best meet their own promotional and marketing goals. I actively post information about neighborhood programs and businesses on the Live MSP Facebook page and Twitter Feed to get more people exposed to them.” Bailey encourages neighborhoods to send any announcements to her so that she can help spread the word. Mary Kay Bailey is at info@livemsp.org or 651-315-1478.

Introducing the NRP Policy Board Neighborhood Reps

Neighborhood representatives and alternates were elected to the NRP Policy Board Nov. 19. They are:

For the “Revitalization” neighborhoods:

DeWayne Townsend (rep) is a chemist, current treasurer of the Longfellow Community Council, has been active in the area for 39 years, and has served often on the LCC board and many committees.

Gordon Kepner (alt) is retired, has been active in the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood for 25 years, served as NRP committee chair, and been a board member of the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood organization for 8 years.

For the “Redirection” neighborhoods:

Carol Ann Pass (rep) is a retired college professor and property manager, has been on the NRP Policy Board for the last six years (4 as Redirection Representative), been very active in the Phillips neighborhood, helped start EPIC, and served as EPIC Chair.

Tom Bissen (alt) is a bank manager from the Whittier neighborhood. He served on the Whittier Alliance Board for 11 years (7 as treasurer), was treasurer of the Old St. Anthony business association for 6 years and has previously served on the NRP Policy Board.

For the “Protection” neighborhoods:

Jeffrey Strand (rep) is an administrative supervisor for Hennepin County, chaired the Shingle Creek Neighborhood Association board from 1997-2006, and served on the NRP Policy board for 8 years.

Nick Kakos (alt) is a Certified Public Accountant living in the East Calhoun neighborhood who has served on the NRP Policy Board for 13 years, and is active in church and veterans’ groups.

At Large:

Debbie Evans (rep) is a marketing and promotions manager, served on the Linden Hills Neighborhood Council for 13 years (many as co-chair, 12 as newsletter editor), been volunteer coordinator of numerous community projects and served on the NRP Policy Board for the past six years.

Wizard Marks (alt) is retired and a non-fiction writer living in the Central neighborhood, served on her neighborhood board for 7 years, and notes that she is college educated AND from a poverty background, which gives her a unique perspective on revitalization of inner city neighborhoods.

Neighborhoods Can Help the US Census Effort

In 2010, America embarks on the huge task of counting all its residents. The results may dramatically affect how government money for social services is allocated, and may confirm or challenge what many of us suspect, about demographic shifts in our geographic areas.

“The Census has contacted us with an opportunity for neighborhood residents to get involved,” NRP Director Bob Miller said. “This time, it's for pay: More than a thousand people will be needed citywide, to work in or near their own neighborhoods to help identify addresses and help people get counted. These are temporary, but decent-paying opportunities.”

Between January and March, recruiting, testing, hiring and training will take place so that enumerators can start work. April 1 is Census Day, and after that day there is much follow-up work to be done. “We will be helping the Census administrators get in contact with neighborhood organizations and hope that they will help reach potential workers. There will also be a need to help identify possible recruiting and training sites in various parts of the city,” Miller said. “I sincerely hope that neighborhoods will give this important effort their attention.”

Winter Biking Tips from the City of Minneapolis Bicycle Program

url:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles/
Subscribe to  Bicycling E-Mail Updates:	http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/bicycles/bicycling-esubscribe.asp

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In Minneapolis, many bicyclists embrace the winter months by continuing to ride. If you are already biking, or considering winter biking, here are some tips for dealing with the snow, cold temperatures, and motorists:

• Travel slowly when snow and ice are present. Riding a bike on a street can be challenging, particularly when ice has formed or snow has become lumpy and compacted by vehicles. Ride in bare patches of pavement or non-compacted snow when possible. Take turns and curves at a slower speed, and allow longer distances for braking. Be sure to plan ahead for extra travel time. And remember that cyclists have the right to ride in a general traffic lane, which may be necessary if bike lanes have not been cleared.
• Ride defensively around motorists. Cyclists are less visible in the winter (with fewer cyclists riding and less daylight), and roads are more narrow (when curb-to-curb plowing has not occurred). Always be prepared for motorists to make a mistake. Follow traffic laws and be as considerate as possible. Educate yourself and your friends (motorists and bicyclists alike!) on traffic laws and safety.
• Take the off-street trails. Since Minneapolis has so many miles of trails (84 miles and counting!), urbanites from across the country often suffer from “trail envy.” To top it all off, the Park Board and Public Works Department have policies of clearing snow from off-street trails soon after the end of a snowfall (read more about how the Midtown Greenway and Hiawatha Light Rail Trail are plowed). In most cases, this occurs in less than 24 hours. If you have the choice, leave the grime and compacted snow of the streets behind and head for the trails!
• Stay visible. Riding in the winter months means more darkness. Brighten your ride by using headlights, taillights, and reflective clothing and gear. Legally, cyclists are required to ride with a white, front headlight and rear, red reflector at night.
• Use an old bike in good working condition. Salt and sand can wreak havoc on your treasured bicycle, resulting in rust and breakdowns. Use an older but functional bicycle in the winter months. Two elements of a well functioning winter bike include effective brakes and a well greased chain (wet lube is ideal for snowy conditions). Wider tires with good traction are also essential. Add a pair of fenders to your bicycle to keep street muck from landing on your clothing. The Midtown Bike Center has a bike washing facility which can be used to clean off your bike for $3.
• Dress in layers. Just like other winter sports, bicycling can heat up your body rapidly. Apply layers to your torso and legs, and be prepared to strip them away as your body warms. A good rule of thumb is that you should feel chilly when you step outdoors – if you’re cozy before you start riding, you’ll likely be boiling when you stop.
• Cover your extremities. All of us have experienced the extremes of a sweating torso and numb ears or toes. Don’t ignore your head, neck, hands, and feet when you bike. Comfortable stocking caps, scarves, socks, and gloves (which allow dexterity) should be considered. And goggles don’t just look cool; they’re great eye protection from the cold wind and road grit.
• Use 311. If you see a bicycle-related problem which involves plowing, shoveling, signing, or another traffic concern, call 311. The City relies on the public to flag problems. If you live outside of Minneapolis, call 612-673-3000. A Minneapolis bikeway maintenance responsibility list is available for more direct call routing.
• Use transit. When the going gets tough, give yourself a warm break by using the bus or train. All Metro Transit buses and trains are equipped with bicycle racks. Bike commuters are also eligible to sign up for Metro Transit’s Guaranteed Ride Home program, which provides free transit rides or cab fare reimbursement for emergencies (like a snow or ice storm).
• Look for more information. We’re hardly the final say on winter bicycling. Any winter cyclist on Minneapolis streets probably has some good ideas, so go ahead and ask around. If you want to read on, visit www.icebike.org.
• Embrace winter. Our identity is shaped by our weather. Snow and cold temperatures add diversity and beauty to Minneapolis. Riding a bicycle in the winter can be exhilarating and practical. It keeps you in good health, it’s good for the environment, it’s cheap, and at times, it’s even the fastest mode of travel.

Happy Riding,

City of Minneapolis Bicycle Program

Milwaukee Avenue Walking Tour on Saturday, December 5

What:	Milwaukee Avenue Walking Tour
When:	Saturday, December 5 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Where:	gather at Second Moon (23rd Ave & Franklin) at 1:00 p.m.

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Discover the gem of Seward along this historic avenue with the Seward Neighborhood Group's History Committee and local resident and architect Bob Mack.

Franklin Frolic on Saturday, December 5

What:	Franklin Frolic
When:	Saturday, December 5 Noon - 5 p.m.
Where:	all along Franklin Ave. E.

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From noon to 5:00 p.m. businesses all along Franklin Avenue East will be having sales and special holiday deals. Sip cocoa or cider and nibble a cookie as you wander down the avenue, enjoying the holiday decoration displays that businesses have created as part of the “Light Up the Avenue” contest.

At 5:00 p.m. gather in Triangle Park (26th Ave & Franklin) to light up the park! Enjoy roasted chestnuts, refreshments, a performance by the U of M Fire Dancers, interactive art by Minneapolis Art on Wheels, and music by the Brass Messengers.

An event brochure with the full listing of activities is available at neighborhood businesses and at Seward Redesign, 2619 E Franklin Ave. The Franklin Frolic is sponsored in part by the Seward Co-op Grocery and Deli (2823 E Franklin) and brought to you by the Seward Civic and Commerce Association (SCCA).

Bryn Mawr's Saturnalia on December 12

What:	Bryn Mawr's Saturnalia
When:	Saturday, December 12  4:00 to 10:00 p.m.
Where:	Cedar Lake Road from Laurel Ave West to Russell Ave S

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Saturnalia has been a great event in the past, with hundreds of neighbors joining the fun. We hope you’ll take time off from your holiday preparations, gather your family and friends, and come and enjoy Saturnalia together in Downtown Bryn Mawr.

These events are free and open to the public, and are brought to you by the Bryn Mawr Neighborhood Business Association. Volunteers are needed (for short shifts) - watch your e-mail for a notice or call Patty Wycoff to volunteer (612-377-4565).

This annual Bryn Mawr tradition will be just one afternoon, so don’t miss out! The schedule will be (all times approximate):

4:00 to 5:00 p.m.

• Drum Corp will rock Cedar Lake Road.
• Caroling to raise funds for St. Anne’s Women’s Shelter in North Minneapolis (bring some spare change to donate for this great effort!) Walk-on singers are welcome, or call Mindy at 377-0866 for more details.

4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

• s’mores, cider, and hot cocoa (while supplies last)

4:00 to 5:30 p.m.

• Santa drops in to visit with the children.

4:45 to 6:00 p.m.

• Horse-drawn hay rides to view the neighborhood holiday lights (departing every 15-20 minutes)

5:00 to 6:30 p.m.

• Face painting in Cuppa Java.

8:00 to 10:00 p.m.

• Party hearty at Cuppa Java (adults only), featuring live music. Drinks may be purchased on site, and you are welcome to bring your own bottle.

Holiday on Forty Fourth on December 4

What:	Holiday on 44th Holday Party  Most activities are FREE!!  44th Ave N will be closed between Logan and Upton Avenues from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m..
When:	Friday, December 4  6:00 – 9:00 p.m.  (Craft show open until 9:30 p.m.)
Where:	44th Ave N from Thomas to Morgan
url:	http://victoryneighborhood.org/holidayon44th09.pdf

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Along the Avenue:

• PHHS Marching Band Sponsored by Matt Massman
• Clowns, Horse-Drawn Hay Wagon and Covered Wagon

In the businesses on 44th:

• Food Collection for NorthPoint Food Shelf
• Toy Collection for Toys for Tots distribution at Jenny Lind School on December 12.

44th Ave N and Thomas:

• Loring School
  

  Multipurpose Room Papa’s Restaurant and Deli:  Pizza by the Slice–$2, Coffee–$1, Bottled Soda–$1.50 Camden Music School Singers–Caroling  Sponsored by Cleveland Neighborhood Association

  Gym 6:00 – 9:00 Face Painters 6:15 pm The Great Brodini – Magic Show  Sponsored by Monica Colberg 7:00 pm Slither and Slime – Three Rivers Parks  Sponsored by Victory Neighborhood Association 8:00 pm The Great Brodini – Magic Show  Sponsored by Monica Colberg

• Outside, Near 44th and Thomas Ice Carving / Raffle by Rob Graham  Sponsored by Webber Camden Neighborhood Association Marshmallow Roasting

44th Ave. N. and Russell

• House at 2321 44th Ave No. Cookie Decorating  Sponsored by Faith Baptist Church

44th Ave N and Penn

• On the street: U of MN Juggling Club  Sponsored by VitaLifeRx Pony Rides  Sponsored by Webber Park
• The Warren: An Artist’s Habitat 6:00 – 9:00 pm Open House Free Hot Cider and Coffee Fire Pit Toy and Food collection site
• Workhouse Theater “The Night Before Christmas” Performed every 45 minutes at The Warren  Sponsored by Victory Neighborhood Association
• Parsons Preferred Dental Ice Carving / Raffle by Terry Reis  Sponsored by Otogawa-Anschel Design Build Roasted Chestnuts in the parking lot
• Mighty Stitch Free Coffee and Cider Coupons for Alterations Toy and Food collection site
• Housing Resource Center Free Hot Cocoa & Cookies Home Improvement/Loan Info Build a Birdhouse with the MPRB  Sponsored by GMHC Toy and Food collection site
• Emily’s F & M Café 4:00 – 8:00 pm Spaghetti with lots of homemade meat sauce, tossed salad/Garlic bread $9.95
• Jackie Ann’s Caroling by Girl Scouts
• Domino’s Holiday on 44th Special
• Steamworks Coffee and Tea Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 pm Limited Menu – Coffee, Cider with topping bar, Hot Chocolate, Cookies Father Christmas Fire Pit Caroling
• Victory 44 Holiday on 44th Special
• Doorway Over $500 in Prizes, 1/2 hour massage given away every 12 minutes, chair massages, aromatherapy gifts, Glow in the Dark necklaces, gift certificates up to 50% off.

44th Ave N. and Morgan

• Patrick Henry High School Gym 6:00–9:30 pm Art & Craft Show 6:00–9:00 pm Patrick Henry Booster Club Silent Auction 6:30–7:30 pm St. Mary’s Balalaika Orchestra 7:45–8:45 pm Mooncoin Ceili Dancers 6:00–9:00 pm Make & Take Gingerbread Houses   Sponsored by Lind Bohanon Neighborhood Association 6:30–8:30 pm Girl Scouts Make & Take Crafts 6:00–9:00 pm Face Painters
• Gym Lobby 6:00 – 9:00 pm Community Tables Student Concession Stand
• Outside, Near Morgan Ave. Door Wood Carving Demo / Raffle by Terry Faith  Sponsored by Folwell Neighborhood Association
• Outside, on corner of 44th & Morgan Marshmallow Roasting

STEP-UP program seeks Minneapolis youth for 2010 summer jobs

url:	STEP-UP program seeks Minneapolis youth for 2010 summer jobs

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The Minneapolis STEP-UP program that teaches students good work habits and places youth in paid internships at businesses, schools and government agencies throughout the city is now seeking applications. Minneapolis youth, ages 14 -21, who would like to participate in the 2010 STEP-UP summer jobs program should submit an application now through Jan. 29, 2010.

Youth, ages 14 and 15, are offered a first job experience and matched with positions at non-profits. Youth ages 16-21 are matched with jobs in private businesses, government and education. Youth interested in the STEP-UP program will need to complete a competitive application process and attend a work readiness training session to be considered for a summer position.

Applications are also available at the Minneapolis North and South Workforce Centers, Minneapolis Public schools, many non-profit organizations and the Franklin, North Regional and Central libraries. For questions about the program or for help completing the application, contact Tammy Dickinson at 612-673-5041 or tammy.dickinson@ci.minneapolis.mn.us.

Census jobs available in Minnesota

url:	Census jobs available in Minnesota

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Between now and next spring, the U.S. Census Bureau will hire thousands of people throughout the Kansas City Region which includes the six states of Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Arkansas. This strong economic shot in the arm is like having a factory open up in each of the region’s states. Up to a total of 35,000 people will be on staff during peak times.

The positions are good paying, temporary jobs that range from $11.50 to $20.00 per hour plus mileage for the field positions of Recruiting Assistants, Crew Leaders, Crew Leader Assistants and Census Takers. The pay for Census Clerks range from $7.50 to $12.75 per hour depending on location. There may be some opportunities for advancement.

Positions are available in many communities throughout the state. Those hired will work out of Census offices located in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Bemidji, Duluth, Edina, Rochester, and Shakopee.

The U.S. Census Bureau encourages interested persons to apply for these jobs by calling the Toll Free Jobs Line at 1-866-861-2010.

Free Workshop for Struggling Homeowners on December 5

What:	Presentation about Foreclosure  The event is free. Drop by anytime (open house).  No registration or RSVP is required.
When:	Saturday, December 5  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m  9:30 and 11:30 a.m – Hmong  10:00 a.m.– English  10:30 a.m. – Vietnamese  11:00 a.m. – English with Khmer & Chinese  Noon – English with Laotian & Korean
Where:	South High School  3131 19th Ave S (entrance 1)

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Ask questions and get free advice – confidentially – from mortgage lending and non-profit housing counselors. Attend an open-house event to learn about what happens during foreclosure and what helps and assistance may be available. Counselors & translators will be available in Hmong, Vietnamese, Laotian, Chinese, Korean, Khmer and other Asian Languages.

For more information, or to learn about other upcoming workshops, feel free to visit the Minnesota Home Ownership Center’s website www.hocmn.org. The Center works with a network of community-based organizations that offer free, confidential advice about mortgages and foreclosure.