Hawthorne Business

Business Committee Meeting: September 19th

2008-09-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

Join us on Friday, September 19th at 8:30 AM at US Bank, 1030 W. Broadway, for a special session of the Hawthorne Business Committee we'd love to update you on several special issues coming up including: Our upcoming annual dinner of the Hawthorne Neighborhood Councilon September 25th at Farview Park that's open to you and your employees.

We'd like to talk with you about the open positions on our board of directors, where we're looking for skilled leaders with an interest in helping to transform our neighborhood into a great place to live, work, learn and play. We could really use your help identifying great people to represent our business community.

We also have updates on the reimbursements for the Step Up Achieve program for the interns many of you hosted, and other news.
If you have the time available this Friday morning we'd love to see you.

And if you can't make it, but are still interested in learning more, please let us know by calling (612) 529-6033 or e-mailing our committee chair, Jim Wentzell at JOWSR@aol.com and he'll be happy to share more with you.

Hawthorne Business Committee Meeting: August 22nd

2008-08-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

As a reminder, due to the August holiday weekend, this month's Hawthorne Business Committee Meeting is this Friday, August 22nd at 8:30 AM at US Bank, 1030 W. Broadway and we look forward to seeing you there.

On the agenda:

Facade Improvement Update. Hawthorne has money available to help you improve your business facade! Find out how.

The new Hawthorne Business Social Hour. We'll soon be convening special gatherings for Hawthorne businesses and professionals, and we'd like your input.

Meet Our New Executive Director. Laban Ohito will be present to meet you and hear your interests and concerns for business growth and development in the Hawthorne neighborhood!

Board Positions available on the Hawthorne Neighborhood Council: Next month's Hawthorne Annual Meeting also includes our board of director elections, and a seat is available for a Hawthorne business representative. Find out how you can get involved to help take the Hawthorne Neighborhood in a great direction.

2009 Strategies: Where have we been, and where would we like to go?

Northside Chess Tournament Followup: What happened, and what's next?

Step-Up Achieve Review: We'll hear about the results from this year's Step-Up Achieve partners and their youth interns, and what's next.

Additional business.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Hawthorne Business Profile: An Interview With Taylor Sound

2008-07-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

One of the great businesses in the Hawthorne neighborhood is Taylor Sound, located at 2921 N. 2nd Street.

Owned and run by T. Perry Bowers, Taylor Sound helps new and established musicians and artists from across the Twin Cities follow their dreams and add to the amazing creative capital of our community. We had a chance to talk with T. Perry Bowers, the vision behind Taylor Sound:

How long have you been in the Hawthorne Neighborhood?

I have been here since October 2000.

What made you go into this line of business?

I started in the recording field with some equipment in a rehearsal space in St. Paul. I started recording bands for $3 per hour. After a while I hooked up with Mirror Image Studios in Uptown, Minneapolis. There, I was charging about $20 per hour doing hip-hop and rock bands. After a year or so, I found my own space in SE Minneapolis. I had 6 rehearsal spaces and my recording studio. I soon found the need for my own building. This is when I found 2921 N 2nd St. There was such a demand for rehearsal space during that time, I knew I could fill it up.

What are some the unique services you offer that sets you apart?

Most rehearsal space facilities just offer rehearsal space for bands. I offer production space for vocal artists, duplications, daily rehearsals, a recording studio, video production, vocal booths and a network for musicians.

What can we look forward to in the coming months ahead from Taylor Sound?

We are releasing a complitation CD with 16 songs from some of the artists here at Taylor Sound. We will have a CD release party at a location to be determined.

What's been the most rewarding part of your business?

I like to connect to musicians. Musicians have a great connection to creativity and energy. I like to see bands and artists succeed. When they have good shows and make great music, it gives me a sense of satisfaction. Hopefully, I can be a small part in these insprirational people's careers. I hope to provide a solid place where musicians can come to create.

Do you have any advice for people interested in starting a business in Hawthorne?

If someone is intending to start a business, Hawthorne is a great location. The proximity to downtown is very convenient. You get the benefits of downtown, hopefully without the great costs of being directly downtown. Also, there is a facade improvement program that anyone who wants to buy a building here may be interested in.

You can visit Taylor Sound at: http://www.taylor-sound.com/ to learn more!

Business Committee This Friday!

2008-07-21T08:21:00.001-07:00

The July Hawthorne Business Committee meeting is July 25th at US Bank, 1030 W. Broadway at 8:30 AM. Doughnuts and coffee provided!

Already we are planning on discussing:

Facade Improvement. If you've been thinking of improving and updating your storefront, we have free funds for you! Learn how to make the changes you've wanted to your exterior through a matching grant of up to $10,000 for $20,000 of facade improvements.

Hawthorne Marketing Program: Hear the latest updates on our marketing efforts to energize Hawthorne businesses! We have world-class businesses as well as many new start-ups in Hawthorne. This is a chance to learn what we're doing to help you succeed.

Northside Chess Match: Find out about the great Northside Live Chess Match ( http://northsidechess.blogspot.com ) that is part of our strategy to connect residents to businesses and the city.

Businesses in Hawthorne

2008-06-30T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hawthorne Business Committee Meeting This Week

2008-06-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

Help us make a difference!
Join Us At The Hawthorne Business Committee: Friday, June 27th at 8:30 AM
US Bank, 1030 W Broadway Ave, Minneapolis

Hawthorne has many unique advantages and opportunities for business owners. This committee is chance to network with other businesses about exciting news and opportunities that can help you grow and succeed in our neighborhood.

It’s free and refreshments are served! We’ll be done by 9:30 AM.

American Chemical Announces New Intern From Step-Up Achieve!

2008-06-23T08:20:00.000-07:00

American Chemical, Inc., participating in STEP-UP Achieve Program for the 3rd year, welcomes Lee Chang as their new summer intern.

Lee, a student at Patrick Henry High School in Minneapolis, will be updating our PDF files for their new web sites.

This project is part of American Chemical’s launch of their new website www.glueitgreen.com and newly designed website www.glueit.com.

Online Tools For Getting Organized!

2008-05-30T12:03:00.000-07:00

Getting organized is a key to success and there are many tools to help you out there. What follows are some of the more interesting ones you may have overlooked.

Obviously, don't try to use them all, but pick one or two that appeal to you. If they don’t work, you can always choose another, but it’s important that you focus on the doing, not on the tools.

Google Calendar. Along with Gmail and Google Reader, this is a favorite Google application for many people — it allows you to keep your life organized easily, intuitively, with no hassle or slow speed problems.

Backpack. This is a good list-maker, perfect for to-do lists and other lists, using a simple and clean interface you can access from anywhere: home, work or on the go.

PocketMod. Super portable planning, it’s a sheet of paper, very cheap and easy to organize with . You can choose the parts you want, such as a calendar, notes, to-do lists, reference sheets, daily planner, and more.

Remember the Milk. Does lists and tasks very well, including repetitive tasks. It has a plug-in for Google Calendar for one-stop organizing.

Task Toy. Simple web-based to-do list manager.

TiddlyWiki. This wiki puts your contexts on the left side (e.g. @desk, @home, @writing, @inbox) and each opens a list of next actions for its location.

Vitalist.com. A popular online application that is easy, and free.

If you like this article, we'll include more in the future!

Bike Rack Funding For Your Business

2008-04-01T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hawthorne Businesses!

The City of Minneapolis has received a grant from Transit for Livable Communities through the Non-Motorized Transportation Pilot (NTP) Program to install bike racks throughout the city.

Part of this funding has been set aside to help local businesses install bike racks in front of their establishments.

This grant will help supplement the city's annual bike rack appropriation, allowing for considerably more bike racks to be installed in 2008.

If you have a business that is interested in this opportunity please have them call 612-673-2129 or e-mail Donald Plaum Donald.Pflaum@ci.minneapolis.mn.us directly.

A site visit will be scheduled and city staff will help the business owner determine number, style, and location of the bike rack.

The business owner is responsible for 50% of the cost of the rack plus 50% of the cost of installation. The grant will pay for the other 50% of the expenses.

Businesses need to respond back by May 1, 2008 to ensure that they will have a rack installed in 2008 as part of this program.

The Northwest Hennepin County Job Fair

2008-04-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, April 9, 2008, over 50 metro area employers will be participating in The Northwest Hennepin County Job Fair.

Each employer will have a booth where you can talk to a company representative about current job openings, and pick up information on their company.

Some companies will have you complete applications or interview for a position right at the job fair!

Workshops include:
Working Together
Achieving Success
See our ad in
Effective Recruitment Advertising...For Less!
See our ad in

For more information call:
Hennepin County Human Services Department (612) 348-8953

WE WANT TO HELP YOU FIND THE JOB THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU!

SPONSORS:
This event is jointly sponsored by Hennepin County Human Services & Public Health Department, the City of Minneapolis Employment and Training Program, the Star Tribune and The Employment News in cooperation with the following Employment Service Providers:

American Indian OIC
Center for Asian & Pacific Islanders
CLUES
East Side Neighborhood Service, Inc.
Employment Action Centers-Division of Resource, Inc.
Goodwill Easter Seals
Hennepin County W.E.R.C.
HIRED
Hmong American Partnership
Jewish Vocational Service
Lifetrack Resources
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota
Minnesota Workforce Centers-Hennepin County
Minneapolis Urban League
Pillsbury United Communities
Project for Pride In Living
Connections to Work
RISE,Inc
St.Stephen’s Human Services.

This event will also feature several Community Resource Agency exhibitors. Each resource agency booth will provide valuable information about their programs and services.

Staff will be available to answer your questions about child care, crisis counseling, employment and training, family resources, financial counseling, health care, housing, transportation and much more!

You can reach Hennepin Tech by using Metro Transit bus route 721 from Brookdale. Use route 5 from downtown to Brookdale.

The Northwest Hennepin County Job Fair
Wednesday April 9, 2008 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Hennepin Technical College North Campus
9000 Brooklyn Boulevard
Brooklyn Park, MN 55445

Create a good impression!
Wear appropriate business attire!
Bring your resume!

Companies will be hiring for careers in Accounting, Clerical, Construction, Customer Service, Health Care, Management, Manufacturing, Retail, Sales, Security and many more.

[Spotlight] ABC Transfer

2008-04-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

One of the many businesses in Hawthorne is ABC Transfer, located at 50 31st Avenue N. in Minneapolis. You can reach them at (612) 331-2709 and speak with their friendly staff who will happily work with you to meet all of your transfer needs, whether for big projects or small!

Business Committee Meeting This Friday, March 28th!

2008-03-26T09:50:00.000-07:00

Help us make a difference!

Join Us At The Hawthorne Business Committee: Friday, March 28th at 8:30 AM!

The meeting is held every month at Johnny A’s, 200 West Broadway Avenue in Minneapolis.

Hawthorne has many unique advantages and opportunities for business owners!

This committee is chance to network with other businesses about exciting news and opportunities that can help you grow and succeed in our neighborhood. It’s free and refreshments are served!

We’ll be done by 9:30 AM.

Coming up this month on March 28th:

Facade Improvement! If you’ve been thinking of improving and updating yourstorefront, we have free funds for you! The West Broadway Business Area Coalition is having a special briefing on how we will help businesses like yours access the money and support to improve your business façade. You don’t wantto miss this. Your input will make a difference!

Hawthorne Marketing Program: Hear how MAP For Nonprofits will assist upcoming efforts to market businesses and economicopportunities in the Hawthorne neighborhood. This is your chance to ask how we can help you.

Hawthorne Business Survey Update: Georgianna Yantos and the Hawthorne Business Committee will provide an update on the new business survey for Hawthorne that will help us all connect and build a thriving, vibrant communitytogether.

Juxtaposition Great Idea Exchange: The Juxtaposition arts non-profit recently requested $500 to help fund the Great Idea Exchange. We will provide you anupdate on the board decision and what this means for Hawthorne businesses.

You can also help us set the agenda for our next meeting on April 25th!

We hope to see you this month!

For more information you can call Jim Wentzell @ 612 329 6883 or email Jowsr@aol.com

February 2008 Business Committee Minutes

2008-03-04T13:11:00.000-08:00

HAWTHORNE AREA COMMUNITY COUNCIL BUSINESS COMMITTEE
02/29/08 Johnny A’s

Attending: Jim Wentzell & Mindy Isaacs (Co Chair), Georgianna Yantos, Dennis Werneke (Secretary), Bryan Thao Worra, HACC, Leroy Smithrud, Susan Casserly-Kosel, Guest: Satoko Muratake with Juxtaposition

The Meeting was called to order@ 8:39 am by Jim Wentzell

Bryan and Dennis reviewed the StepUp Achieve program.

MSC The minutes for January were approved.

There was an approval of the agenda with the addition of discussion on the “Great Idea Exchange” by Juxtaposition.

MSC Letter of intent to restart the Hawthorne Marketing Task Force and work with the North side Marketing Task Force.

MSC To Support the Juxtaposition “Great Idea Exchange” program March 27th, 2008 and that the Hawthorne Business Committee approves a donation of $100 from the NRP Business Marketing Funds.

Other notes:
Bryan Thao Worra will work with Georgianna Yantos on the questionnaire for the Hawthorne Business Directory.

Johnny A meeting with the City Council was postponed till 4/9/08.

Next meeting –March 28th, 2008 at Johnnie A’s

Meeting adjourned

Hawthorne Businesses Have A Chance To Step Up!

2008-03-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

Applications are now being distributed for the Minneapolis STEP-UP Program for kids aged 14 to 21!

If you’re a business interested in helping this program and participating, there is still time to apply and give Minneapolis youth an outstanding opportunity at your workplace.

STEP-UP is a paid, summer jobs program for Minneapolis youth. There are two versions:

STEP-UP for 14-15-year-olds, operated by the Minneapolis Employment and Training Program, teaches students good work habits and provides them with wages and an opportunity to contribute to a local community based organization.

STEP-UP for 16-21-year-olds, operated by Achieve!Minneapolis, provides youth with paid positions with local employers and teaches them the skills they need to succeed on the job. Many Hawthorne businesses already participate!

For more information, call (612) 455-1530 or visit www.achieveminneapolis.org/programs/stepup.html

January 2008 Business Committee Meeting Minutes

2008-02-25T11:32:00.000-08:00

HAWTHORNE AREA COMMUNITY COUNCIL BUSINESS COMMITTEE
01/25/08 Johnny A’s

Attending: Jim Wentzell & Mindy Isaacs (Co Chair), Georgianna Yantos, Dennis Werneke (Secretary), Bryan Thao Worra, HACC, Leroy Smithrud, Gail Thompson, Johnny Alexander (host), Mahamoud Karem, and Mostafa Abdel Kerim of the Wafana's building a new meat market and deli on Lyndale).

The Meeting was called to order@ 8:35 am by Jim Wentzell

MSC The minutes for November were approved.

There was an approval of the agenda with the addition of discussion of a new meat market and deli on Lyndale and a discussion from Johnny Alexander.

MSC with one abstention by Georgianna Yantos, (who needs for information.) To send a letter of support to the HACC committee for the approval of a meat and deli market to be located in the Wafana’s Building on Lyndale Avenue. The new owners have agreed that they will not sell any tobacco products at their new establishment and plan to have outside cameras for added security.

It was also recommended that the new owners discuss their business intentions with the Crime and Safety and Housing committees for their approval. Bryan Thao Worra to draft final letter to HACC

MSC for the business committee to send a letter of support for the continuation of Johnny Alexander DBA Johnny A’s 200 Club located on North 2nd Street and Broadway Avenue. Johnny Alexander has been very pro business and has hosted the Hawthorne Business Committee monthly meeting over the last five years. This letter of support should be sent to City Council Diane Hofstede office. The letter should be sent a prior to his hearing February 20th with the City Council Regulatory Services meeting. Bryan Thao Worra to draft final letter to HACC

MSC to approve the WBBAC to act as the facilitator of the Hawthorne façade improvement program with MCCD for business located in the Hawthorne neighborhood.

MSC for the HACC Business Committee to review the Marketing Plan and to move forward to develop a program for Hawthorne and work with the North Side Marketing Task Force.

Other business:
The Hawthorne business committee has give approval for Bryan Thao Worra and Jim Wentzell to put together a Marketing Survey for business located in the Hawthorne neighborhood. Bryan and Jim have agreed to prepare this and e mail it to the committee members, prior to our next committee meeting February 29th.

MSC for Leroy Smithrud a long member of our business committee has requested a letter of support for his continuation of multi family zoning of his four plex located at 2400 Dupont Ave North. Bryan Thao Worra to draft final letter to HACC

MSC with one abstention, to reimburse Dennis Werneke with American Chemical Inc. for his hiring two students last summer for the StepUp Achieve Program Total Reimbursement would be $877 which would be have the wages paid.

Hawthorne Business Committee Meeting: February 28th

2008-02-25T11:30:00.003-08:00

The Hawthorne Business Committee is meeting this Friday at 8:30 AM at Johnny A's at 200 W. Broadway!
Among the topics on this month's agenda:
-Step-Up Achieve! Update
-Facade Improvement Program Update
-Marketing Discussion & update
-Juxtaposition Railroad Bridge Update
-Johnny A’s Support update
-Hawthorne Business Directory update

We hope to see you there!

Hawthorne Business Committee January 25th

2008-01-24T09:49:00.001-08:00

As a reminder, tomorrow is the monthly Hawthorne Business Committee meeting between local businesses of the Hawthorne Neighborhood at 8:30 AM at Johnny A’s on 200 West Broadway. This is a free meeting open to the public to discuss great opportunities for business owners and community stakeholders, and new developments affecting North Minneapolis.

On this month's agenda:

 Introductions and Call To Order
 Approval of Agenda
 Approval of Minutes
 Facade Grant Review & Support for contractor
 Suggestions & plans for the year
 To review past marketing & follow thru
 Discuss plans to improve attendance at meetings
 New Business

We hope to see you there!

November Hawthorne Business Committee Minutes

2007-12-03T09:02:00.001-08:00

HAWTHORNE AREA COMMUNITY COUNCIL BUSINESS COMMITTEE
11/30/07 Johnny A’s

Attending: Jim Wentzell (Co Chair), Georgianna Yantos, Dennis Werneke (Secretary), Grover Jones, WBBAC & NEON
Bryan Thao Worra, HACC, Sherm Malkerson, Valeng Cha, HACC, Mike Christenson, CPED, Erik Hansen, CPED, Leroy Smithrud,

Meeting was called to order@ 8:37 am by Jim Wentzell

MSC The minutes for September and October were approved with some minor changes.

StepUp Achieve program
Jim Wentzell and Valeng Cha gave an update on the StepUp Achieve program.
The same motion that we approved last April was approved again with some slight changes that the “Student intern work 10 to 40 hours per week” Valeng will reintroduce this motion to the HACC board for approval for 2008.

In further discussion, Jim Wentzell recommended that he thought that HACC board should pay for ½ the tuition for the two student interns that Dennis Werneke of American Chemical Inc took on this last summer, because he was of the understanding that because this Business board and HACC board approved original motion last April and May. Unfortunately, HACC did not follow through with the original plan to implement the plan before the program started.
MSC “A motion of recommendation for the HACC board try to locate some NRP funds to pay up to $2000 to American Chemical Inc. for sponsoring two student interns this last summer.” Dennis Werneke with American Chemical Inc. said that any reimbursement should be less than $1500. Dennis Werneke abstained from the vote of this motion.

Mike Christenson with CPED gave an updated as to the progress on what is happening in North Minneapolis.

Coloplast, Inc will be building a $45,000,000 corporate headquarters at approximately 1600 West River Road.
The city of Minneapolis will be supplying some “Claw Back” TIF money for hiring North Minneapolis students in the future.

Penn & Lowry development is moving along fine and the Aldi’s will be opening in the beginning of February.
There is a need for some sort of banking service at this intersection.

Penn & Broadway is looking better and that there are some development and improvements underway.

Penn & Plymouth, we will soon be seeing some development by the U of M.

Mike suggested that Hawthorne could help coordinate getting this good new out to the Hawthorne Huddle at a future meeting.
Erik Hanson and Mike Christensen could put on a power point presentation as to what positive changes have happened in North Minneapolis.

Mike’s 3 big things (wish list) he would like to see happen in the near future.

1 Communicate with the community after a deal is done not before. This can be partially achieved by the Huddle.
2 Put together a community process to address the housing issues with all the boarded up homes on North 4th Street, just north of Broadway.
3 Put together a panel or task force on the reuse of the Broadway and Washington Avenue intersections.

Erik Hansen mentioned that it looks like Master Development will put on a second floor where Irv’s Bar is (after the roof signage lease expires in the spring ) and develop that corner. And that they will then move into this property and that “Way to Grow” will be moving into their existing space.

Next meeting –January 25th, 2008 at Johnnie A’s

Meeting adjourned @ 10:00 am

October Hawthorne Business Committee Minutes

2007-12-03T09:01:00.000-08:00

HAWTHORNE AREA COMMUNITY COUNCIL BUSINESS COMMITTEE
10/26/07 Johnny A’s

Attending: Jim Wentzell (Co Chair), Georgianna Yantos, Dennis Werneke (Secretary),
Bryan Thao Worra, HACC, Sherm Malkerson, Valeng Cha, HACC, Tom Laughton, CPED, Erik Hansen, CPED, Leroy Smithrud,
Gail Thompson, Grover Jones NEON

Meeting was called to order@ 8:30 am by Jim Wentzell

The minutes of September Meeting were labeled until our next meeting scheduled for November 30th.

NEON update by Grover Jones

Grover gave the following update on NEON programs; currently they have done 7 outreach marketing and new business training classes this year. The training classes consist of pro bono legal and accounting services, and discussing the metro loan program.
The program works with the U of M Emerge Outreach Program, Score Programs, and Empowerment Zone initiatives.
Grover is very busy but can be reached at 612-277-1126.

North side development by Erik Hansen

Here are some of the Highlights for 2008;
-1101 Building is up and running
-Penn Lowry new businesses should be open spring 2008
-Set the foundation for the YWCA and AINDC in the 800 West Broadway Bldg.
-West Broadway Alive implementation programs to start next year
-Hawthorne Plaza redesign
-City wide façade improvement program
-Lowry Ave redo will be between Queen and Girard Ave.
-There is a 2% business improvement loan program up to $150,000 city to cover half of it.
Erik can be reached at 612 672-5022

North Side JOBS Park update by Sherm Malkerson

Master Development has until the end of the year to put together plans for their site at Plymouth and North 2nd Street.
If nothing is done then the city will put the parcel of land back on the auction block.
Coloplast is looking at expanding into maybe the Reliance Recycling site on North 2nd Street. Of course Reliance needs a spot that they can move too.

Valeng Cha and Bryan Thao Worra gave the following update

The business committee will need to put together a work plan for 2008 such as a business survey, StepUp/ Achieve Program ( underway) and the Façade (NRP) improvement program.

Tom Leighton with CPED update.

The West Broadway Alive is in a 45 day review period and that sometime after Dec 1st they will go before the City Council for input and implementation approval. So far the feedback from those involved has been very positive.

Another comment was made that they would like to get some business help to approach Broadway Resource Recovery to remove the fence facing Broadway and do some landscaping as they originally promised for the south side of their building.

Next meeting –November 30th 2007 at Johnnie A’s

Meeting adjourned @ 9:30 am

September Hawthorne Business Committee Minutes

2007-12-03T08:58:00.000-08:00

HAWTHORNE AREA COMMUNITY COUNCIL BUSINESS COMMITTEE
9/28/07 Johnny A’s

Attending: Jim Wentzell (Co Chair), Georgianna Yantos, Dennis Werneke (Secretary),
Bryan Thao Worra, HACC, Mindy Isaacs (Co Chair)

Meeting was called to order@ 8:36 am by Jim Wentzell

MSC Approval of the August minutes with some minor spelling errors.

WBBAC update by Jim Wentzell

The WBBAC has a job opening for an Executive Director and hope to interview and hire by November 15th.
The new office for the WBBAC will be at 1505 West Broadway and NEON will share space with WBBAC.
Jim Wentzell also stated that WBBAC is working on collaboration more with NEON.

Other items

On October 13 their will be a 3rd Ward summit at “City View School” for the Northside.

Jim also mentioned about sending a letter out regarding the cleaning of the street signs and poles in the neighborhood.

Bryan would like for our business group to have a business & community meeting in mid January. Maybe have a cocktail after hours get together to discuss business issues in the area. Some of his ideas were to have a one page survey on their 3 top issues, find out who owns what property and who rents space, type of business, perhaps put together a tax seminar or discuss building improvements.

Bryan also mentioned that the HACC site has an area for Business Blogs.

Next meeting –October 26th, 2007 at Johnnie A’s

Meeting adjourned @ 9:05 am

Step-Up Applications Now Available

2007-11-26T11:38:00.000-08:00

Applications are now being distributed for the Minneapolis STEP-UP Program
for kids aged 14 to 21.

STEP-UP is a paid, summer jobs program for Minneapolis youth. STEP-UP for 14-15-year-olds, operated by the Minneapolis Employment and Training Program, teaches students good work habits and provides them with wages and an opportunity to contribute to a local community based organization.

STEP-UP for 16-21-year-olds, operated by Achieve!Minneapolis, provides youth with paid positions with local employers and teaches them the skills they need to succeed on the job.

STEP-UP for 14-15 year olds
A nine-week, paid summer jobs program for low-income Minneapolis youth.
Participants:
· Work 30 hours a week from mid-June to mid-August.
· Earn $6 per hour at a job such as a landscaper, tutor, childcare
worker, computer intern, clerical assistant, peer educator, camp counselor or maintenance worker.
· Earn high school credit by attending C.L.A.S.S.
· Take part in a business mentoring program or spend a week, for
free, at a multi-cultural camp called Camp Sunrise.
· Learn new skills on the job.
· Provide valuable services at a local public or non-profit agency.
How to apply:
· The application deadline for STEP-UP for 14-15 year olds is Jan.
11, 2008.

Download an application here:
http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/metp/docs/stepup_app_14.pdf

Applications are also available at:
Achieve! Career and College Centers in the MPLS public high schools; The South Workforce Center at 777 E. Lake St.; or The North Workforce Center at 1200 Plymouth Ave. N.

Complete every section of the application and return it to:
Achieve! Career and College Centers in the Minneapolis public high schools;
The South Workforce Center at 777 E. Lake St.;
The North Workforce Center at 1200 Plymouth Ave. N.; OR mail it to: Attn: STEP-UP Program, Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development, 777 East Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN 55407

For more information call Xuong Tran at 612-673-6231 or Anne Fischer at 612-673-6221.

Step Up For 16-21 Year Olds
A six- to 10-week paid summer jobs program for Minneapolis youth.

Participants:
· Work full-time or part-time (20-40 hours per week) from mid-June
through August.
· Earn $7 to more than $10 per hour in a field that interests you:
business, health care, creative arts and many other areas.
· Explore career interests and gain job skills in a professional
setting.
· Make future connections at top Minneapolis employers.
How to apply:
· The application deadline for STEP-UP for 16-21 year olds is Jan.
11, 2008.
· Applications are available for download at:
http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/metp/docs/stepup_app_16.pdf and at http://www.achieveminneapolis.org/programs/stepUp.html
· Visit an Achieve! Career & College Center in a Minneapolis public
high school to pick up an application.
· Call Achieve!Minneapolis to request an application by mail at
(612) 455-1563.
· Complete every section of the application and return it to an
Achieve! Career and College Center in a MPLS public high school, or mail it to: Achieve!Minneapolis/STEP-UP, 111 Third Avenue S. Suite 5, Minneapolis, MN 55401

For more information call or email Jennifer Petersen at Achieve!
Minneapolis at 612-455-1563.

Request For Comment For Great Streets RFP

2007-11-26T08:34:00.000-08:00

Recognizing that healthy neighborhood business districts are an important component of the high quality of life we enjoy in Minneapolis, the City is pleased to announce the new Great Streets Façade Improvement Program.

Great Streets focuses on areas of the City that have been identified in The Minneapolis Plan and other land use policy documents as places where the City supports commercial activity and development.

These areas include 11 commercial corridors, 45 neighborhood commercial nodes, 5 downtown neighborhood business districts, and 7 Hiawatha LRT station areas. The Great Streets façade improvement matching grant program seeks to (1) stimulate visible investment, (2) create healthy and attractive neighborhood business districts, (3) enhance the sense of place, and (4) provide a tool for assisting the administrative organizations in developing collaborative relationships with businesses in their service area.

Individual not-for-profit organizations will implement and administer the façade improvement grant program in their communities, on behalf of the City of Minneapolis. The organizations selected through this RFP process will provide matching grants to businesses and commercial property owners as reimbursement for exterior storefront improvements.

Façade improvement program funding is through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process.

The draft RFP is available for interested party review at http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/facade_home.asp. Please provide comments by December 31, 2007 to Rebecca Brown at rebecca.brown@ci.minneapolis.mn.us

Journey Towards A New North

2007-10-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

Saturday, November 10th at the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board Headquarters (2117 West River Road):

The Northside Marketing Task Force is inviting you to celebrate the positive side of North Minneapolis as they unveil the area's NEW image and marketing plan!

From 3:00-5:00 PM, including the election of the new Northside Markting Taskforce Board. Appetizers and food provided, it's an excellent opportunity to celebrate with neighbors and friends!

Facade Improvement Funds Available

2007-10-09T17:49:00.000-07:00

The Hawthorne Area Community Council (HACC), a Minnesota non-profit corporation, has approximately $120,000 in Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) funds through the City of Minneapolis (City) to fund and administer a revolving commercial facade improvement program. The program provides funds to finance commercial facade improvements to properties located in the Hawthorne neighborhood.

If you're a Hawthorne area based business, you can download the application here : http://www.hawthornecommunity.org/facaderfp07.doc

It's a great opportunity! The deadline is 5:00PM, November 1st, 2007.

Emerge Hiring Fair for Aldi's: 10/10-10/12

2007-10-08T08:34:00.002-07:00

EMERGE announces a hiring fair for the New Aldi Foods located at Penn & Lowry Aves:

Applications and pre-screenings for ALDIFoods positions will be conducted by Emerge Workforce staff on the following dates/times:

October 10, 2007 1:00 p.m.

October 11, 2007 9:00 a.m.

October 11, 2007 1:00 p.m

October 12, 2007 9:00 a.m.

October 12, 2007 1:00 p.m.

EMERGE Headquarters: 1101 West Broadway • Minneapolis, MN 55411

Positions Include:Cashiers • Shift Managers • Managers • Manager Trainees/Assistant Store Managers

Must bring a government-issued picture ID & Social Security Card

Hawthorne Business Committee Meeting: 9/28

2007-09-11T15:54:00.000-07:00

The next meeting of the Hawthorne Business Committee is scheduled for Friday, 9/28 at Johnny A's at 200 E Broadway in Minneapolis.

For more information about the agenda, contact Mindy Isaacs at misaacs@scrappy.com or Jim Wentzell at jowsr@aol.com or call the Hawthorne Area Community Council (612) 529-6033.

The Hawthorne Business Committee meets on the last Fridays of every month except when it falls on public holidays.

Request for Proposals for Great Streets Neighborhood Business District Program

2007-08-24T08:19:00.000-07:00

Recognizing that healthy neighborhood business districts are an important component of the high quality of life we enjoy in Minneapolis, the City is seeking proposals through the Great Streets Neighborhood Business District program for activities that strengthen the economic vitality of neighborhood business districts located on commercial corridors, commercial nodes, downtown business districts and Hiawatha LRT station areas.

A copy of the request for proposals is available online at:
http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/docs/GSRFP_supportactivity_aug07.doc.

Proposals are due no later than 4:00 pm on October 8, 2007.

City assistance will be prioritized for areas with demonstrated need and for activities supported with funding from business, non-profit, foundation and/or neighborhood partners. Priority will also be given to activities and programs that are consistent with recent planning efforts or recent or pending infrastructure investments.

The Great Streets program (http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cped/great_streets_home.asp) focuses on areas of the City that have been identified in The Minneapolis Plan and other land use policy documents as places where the City supports commercial activity and development. These areas are: eleven designated Commercial Corridors, 45 designated Neighborhood Commercial Nodes, five downtown neighborhood business districts defined as eligible by City Council, and seven Hiawatha LRT station areas.

In addition to resources provided through this RFP, City assistance is available for business loans and real estate development gap financing loans. A Great Streets façade improvement matching grant program will be available in the fall of 2007.

Kristin Guild, AICP
Principal Project Coordinator
City of Minneapolis
Community Planning and Economic Development
105 Fifth Avenue South - Room 600
Minneapolis, MN 55401
kristin.guild@ci.minneapolis.mn.us
phone: 612-673-5168
fax: 612-673-5113

Welcome To Hawthorne Business!

2007-02-06T11:21:00.000-08:00

The purpose of this blog is to keep you informed and up to date about exciting issues and opportunities regarding the business community in the Hawthorne Area Neighborhood and North Minneapolis.