The Union Park District Council has invited interested community members to their joint Parks and Rec/Land Use meeting on Tuesday, December 13 regarding a proposal by Summit Avenue homeowners to install solar panels at their home at 2279 Summit, extending on to Mississippi River Boulevard right-of-way parkland (the parkland had, until recently, been thought to be part of the Summit parcel and had been maintained by the homeowners).
There are six panels, each ten feet tall and four feet wide.
The homeowners applied for a diversion of the parkland, which the St. Paul Parks Commission denied on November 9, 2011 due to precedent and visual impact on the parkway. The homeowners are appealing, citing the history of maintaining the land and concerns that the panels, if built entirely on their property, would have to be 10-12 feet taller to maintain efficiency.
The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the lower level conference room at the Merriam Park Community Center (at 2000 St. Anthony).
SARPA just learned of the issue tonight and has not taken a board position.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Holiday Lights Contest!
Announcing - The Summit Holiday Lights Contest!
Please put your nominations for your favorite holiday lights on Summit in comments below or on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Summit-Avenue-Residential-Preservation-Association-SARPA).
The sooner the better, we'll be judging just before Christmas!
Win fabulous prizes, fame, or something!
Please put your nominations for your favorite holiday lights on Summit in comments below or on our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Summit-Avenue-Residential-Preservation-Association-SARPA).
The sooner the better, we'll be judging just before Christmas!
Win fabulous prizes, fame, or something!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Holiday Greens
Big Thanks to Emerald Acres Tree Farm for again donating cheery holiday boughs to fill the planters over Ayd Mill Road!
And even more thanks to SARPA board members (and board emeriti) Carolyn Will, Mary Lynch, Alison Enestvedt and Mary Michels for placing the boughs on a cold winter afternoon!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Member Event at the German House!
Join us for "Kaffeestube" — a traditional German breakfast for just $6! This Saturday, November 16, at 10am at the German Haus, 301 Summit. Look for the SARPA table!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Remembering Judy
On September 5, 2011, Ramsey Hill lost a founding mother. Judy McLaughlin, one of the great heroes of Ramsey Hill, passed on to party once again with other notable neighborhood pioneers and activists—Mike Hoffman, MaryAnn O’Brien, Pam Gru, Rick Raiter, Jim Czarniecki, Tom Segar, , and her husband, Mike and son, William.
Judy and Mike McLaughlin, with toddler, David, purchased the derelict mansion at 275 Summit Avenue for a vision and a song in the early seventies. Long active in politics on the state and federal level, the McLaughlins recognized the need for hospitality venue that could host political events, especially those with DFL ties, as well as young couples celebrating their wedding day. This was a bold move. Summit Avenue was tarnished—the old families were fleeing to suburban split-levels, the once stately homes were deteriorating into boarding houses, pleasure seeking johns were cruising the side streets in search of cheap thrills, and gun shots in the night were not uncommon as buyers argued with dealers.
Fortunately Ramsey Hill homes had good bones and young, urban pioneers (yuppies as they became known across the nation), had the chutzpah, if not the cash to recognize real value in behind the crumbling brick and flaking paint. It was a time when it was easy to meet the neighbors—everyone had to take a break from the plaster dust and toxic fumes. You didn’t have to walk far to find neighbors working at the same pace you were. Judy was a walker, for several years behind a stroller, and a talker and she knew who the real housewives of Ramsey Hill were long before there was reality TV.
Not incidentally, those strolls and informal sidewalk get-togethers also prompted the formation of the Ramsey Hill Association (RHA) -- and more formal way to promote the unparalleled qualities of owning a distinctive address. The house tour was originally conceived to encourage prospective homebuyers to consider the possibilities inherent in historic properties. The Progressive Dinner was an opportunity to meet new neighbors after a long Minnesota winter indoors and to share renovation horror stories and advice on where to find the best wood stripper, historic wallpaper, and cheap labor.
Swapping tales about the fate of neighborhood properties—which ones had enthusiastic new owners and which ones the city had slated for demolition and suburban style redevelopment probably prompted Judy’s passionate efforts to establish the Historic Hill District through the state legislative process. Was it fortuitous that Judy was an insider at the capital—Speaker Fred Norton’s Chief of Staff?
From this early start, Judy became an active force in the neighborhood, in leadership positions on the RHA Board, as well as behind the scenes. She first manned walkie-talkies as part of the two person crime watch teams patrolling the neighborhood in the early years searching out evil-doers and activity at the after-hours joints and then built on those skills by supervising the House Tour Sanitation Coordinating Committee. Judy was always ready to step up and volunteer for anything that would make her neighborhood a better place.
By the nineties, Ramsey Hill had turned around and the painted ladies on the streets were now homes—not working girls. Former yuppies would exclaim that there was no way they could afford to buy a home in Ramsey Hill today—it had been completely transformed into one of the premier residential locations in the Twin Cities. BUT, there was still just one more eyesore that needed attention—that awful patch of dirt and straw at the top of Ramsey Hill. Judy vowed that she’d see that piece of city-owned property renewed if it was the last thing she’d ever do.
Despite numerous capital improvement proposals, STAR grant requests, golf tournaments (the upscale equivalent of bake sales) and just about anything else to generate interest in park improvements, it was to no avail. There never was a plan that RHA, the U Club, neighbors and the city could agree on and “those people” thought that Ramsey Hill was wealthy and didn’t warrant public help, and besides, it was good enough for the croquet squad!
About the turn of this new century, 100 years after the city had purchased and sat on the property, the Ramsey Hill Association agreed to assume leadership for renovating the park in a manner worthy of placement of the historic St. Gaudens New York Life Eagle.
Judy was involved in all aspects of the transformation—from design detail to construction management to assuring that the inscriptions on the hundreds of pavers were spelled correctly. Ultimately, though, it was Judy’s long and wide range of political friendships and her well-honed persuasion skills that brought the cash to complete the job on the project that never seems to end. With her passing, one last brick will be added to the paver carpet.
In recent weeks, too many people to mention have shared Judy stories. The constant theme has been, “She encouraged me to get involved!” And she did. Whether participation in neighborhood activities, through traditional political action, or simply by voicing thoughtful concern, Judy’s influence has been vast and truly memorable.
At the Oakland Cemetery graveside service, Mayor Chris Coleman, state it best when he noted that Judy McLaughlin was taking her rightful place among the City’s movers and shakers—Alexander Ramsey, Henry Sibley, Amherst Wilder and Harriet Bishop. There was little in Saint Paul’s recent history that wasn’t touched by Judy’s hand. We’ll miss her!
(guest posy by Denise Beigbeder)
Sunday, October 30, 2011
September 2011 Minutes
Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association
September MEETING MINUTES
Board Meeting: Sept. 17, 2011 7:11 p.m.
Meeting Location: Bethany Gladhill’s home at 1348 Summit Avenue
Recorded by: Carolyn Will, Secretary
Present: Bethany Gladhill, Kit Natz, Carolyn Will, Elizabeth Paper, Harry Walsh, Mary Lynch, Ed Boher and the other new member Brian Millberg.
Absent: KD Athow
1. Called to order at 7:14 p.m. President called the meeting to order.
2. Approval of July Minutes.
3. President’s Report:
Old Business:
A. Ayd Mill Planters:
• Mary Lynch has volunteered to clear out the Ayd Mill planters & plant mums. The members questioned whether we could organize volunteer effort to water.
• Request was made for Emerald Acres to donate a variety of evergreen boughs for the winter foliage. Secretary Will agreed to make arrangements.
B. House of Hope Garden fence:
• Elizabeth Paper raised the issue of a house near Dale Ave. which has a chain link fence. Bethany said it was grandfathered in before Summit Ave. became a historic district.
• House of Hope Fence: E. Paper said she personally does mind the fence and does not like how the letter from SARPA to the Amy Spong’s office has reflected on SARPA in the media.
• Question: Has Councilor Melvin Carter offered to pay a portion? Secretary Will offered to ask M.Carter if he is going to pay a portion. President Gladhill said she was in communication with Councilor Carter’s office and would follow-up.
• Ed Bohr has suggested SARPA offer to pay a portion of putting up an appropriate surround fence the fence.
• Member Bohr motions that we approach House of Hope and the City Council to offer to raise the funds to share in the cost of installing a portion of a historically suitable surround fence. Member Lynch seconded. Five: Yea. Two: Nay. One Abstained.
C. Olson House Architectural tour: October 9th from 2-5 pm.
David Heide Architecture firm will host and cover cost of appetizers.
SARPA is selling tickets for $10 on Brown Paper tickets. Cash or check at the door.
Paper Booties: Kit Nantz will ask Ramsey Hill for their leftover paper booties.
Beer: Summit liquor has denied
Bethany suggests we serve nonalcoholic beverages – sparking water, lemonade & coffee. Mary Lynch offered her large coffee urn & serving dishes.
Mary Lynch has offered to approach Skinner’s pizza, or Golden Fig to serve 200 guests. Purchasing supplies at Target or Cosco will be the back-up.
Volunteers: We need board members to work the event.
• Members Will, Nantz, Walsh, Gladhill & Lynch will do set up. Bill Lynch will take photos.
• Pres. Gladhill suggests if this goes well that SARPA select a house each year to hold a tour as a fundraiser.
4. New Business:
• Pres. Gladhill suggested that we encourage a SARPA membership gathering at one of the November German Haus breakfast. Board members agreed that this would be a nice event.
• Member Lynch household offered to host the Christmas gathering for SARPA. Winners will be selected by SARPA members. Bethany suggests we post photos of holiday lights along Summit Avenue on FB page and encourage public to vote. On the night of the SARPA party, take a ride along Summit Ave to look at lights and vote on best display.
• Idea of potential award introduced: Solicit entries in Summit longevity – either family ownership or individual ownership.
• Member Walsh moves that SARPA offer an honorary membership to SARPA for David & Amber McLaughlin in memory of their mother, Judy, and all her good efforts to establish Summit Avenue as a Historic Preservation District. Motion seconded and passed unanimously.
• Suggestion was made to give Bill Lynch photo assignments of events along Summit Ave. when events are scheduled – Heide house tour, UST homecoming, Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, etc. Board members agreed this would be a good way to highlight Summit’s community aspects.
5. Membership report:
a. Member Natz asked everyone on the board to renew their membership. He mentioned that several board members need to make payments which were taken care of at this point.
b. Pres. Gladhill asked if members would distribute membership flyers, SARPA registration forms and envelopes for up two blocks. Bethany will distribute current membership list so we don’t duplicate.
6. WSNAC: Congratulations to Rachel Westermeyer. Housing moratorium passed at the city council. Liquor license is next issue.
7. Next Board Meeting: Monday, October 17 at 7 pm
8. Treasurer’s report. Submitted. Ending August 30th, was $12,217.25
9. Meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm.
September MEETING MINUTES
Board Meeting: Sept. 17, 2011 7:11 p.m.
Meeting Location: Bethany Gladhill’s home at 1348 Summit Avenue
Recorded by: Carolyn Will, Secretary
Present: Bethany Gladhill, Kit Natz, Carolyn Will, Elizabeth Paper, Harry Walsh, Mary Lynch, Ed Boher and the other new member Brian Millberg.
Absent: KD Athow
1. Called to order at 7:14 p.m. President called the meeting to order.
2. Approval of July Minutes.
3. President’s Report:
Old Business:
A. Ayd Mill Planters:
• Mary Lynch has volunteered to clear out the Ayd Mill planters & plant mums. The members questioned whether we could organize volunteer effort to water.
• Request was made for Emerald Acres to donate a variety of evergreen boughs for the winter foliage. Secretary Will agreed to make arrangements.
B. House of Hope Garden fence:
• Elizabeth Paper raised the issue of a house near Dale Ave. which has a chain link fence. Bethany said it was grandfathered in before Summit Ave. became a historic district.
• House of Hope Fence: E. Paper said she personally does mind the fence and does not like how the letter from SARPA to the Amy Spong’s office has reflected on SARPA in the media.
• Question: Has Councilor Melvin Carter offered to pay a portion? Secretary Will offered to ask M.Carter if he is going to pay a portion. President Gladhill said she was in communication with Councilor Carter’s office and would follow-up.
• Ed Bohr has suggested SARPA offer to pay a portion of putting up an appropriate surround fence the fence.
• Member Bohr motions that we approach House of Hope and the City Council to offer to raise the funds to share in the cost of installing a portion of a historically suitable surround fence. Member Lynch seconded. Five: Yea. Two: Nay. One Abstained.
C. Olson House Architectural tour: October 9th from 2-5 pm.
David Heide Architecture firm will host and cover cost of appetizers.
SARPA is selling tickets for $10 on Brown Paper tickets. Cash or check at the door.
Paper Booties: Kit Nantz will ask Ramsey Hill for their leftover paper booties.
Beer: Summit liquor has denied
Bethany suggests we serve nonalcoholic beverages – sparking water, lemonade & coffee. Mary Lynch offered her large coffee urn & serving dishes.
Mary Lynch has offered to approach Skinner’s pizza, or Golden Fig to serve 200 guests. Purchasing supplies at Target or Cosco will be the back-up.
Volunteers: We need board members to work the event.
• Members Will, Nantz, Walsh, Gladhill & Lynch will do set up. Bill Lynch will take photos.
• Pres. Gladhill suggests if this goes well that SARPA select a house each year to hold a tour as a fundraiser.
4. New Business:
• Pres. Gladhill suggested that we encourage a SARPA membership gathering at one of the November German Haus breakfast. Board members agreed that this would be a nice event.
• Member Lynch household offered to host the Christmas gathering for SARPA. Winners will be selected by SARPA members. Bethany suggests we post photos of holiday lights along Summit Avenue on FB page and encourage public to vote. On the night of the SARPA party, take a ride along Summit Ave to look at lights and vote on best display.
• Idea of potential award introduced: Solicit entries in Summit longevity – either family ownership or individual ownership.
• Member Walsh moves that SARPA offer an honorary membership to SARPA for David & Amber McLaughlin in memory of their mother, Judy, and all her good efforts to establish Summit Avenue as a Historic Preservation District. Motion seconded and passed unanimously.
• Suggestion was made to give Bill Lynch photo assignments of events along Summit Ave. when events are scheduled – Heide house tour, UST homecoming, Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, etc. Board members agreed this would be a good way to highlight Summit’s community aspects.
5. Membership report:
a. Member Natz asked everyone on the board to renew their membership. He mentioned that several board members need to make payments which were taken care of at this point.
b. Pres. Gladhill asked if members would distribute membership flyers, SARPA registration forms and envelopes for up two blocks. Bethany will distribute current membership list so we don’t duplicate.
6. WSNAC: Congratulations to Rachel Westermeyer. Housing moratorium passed at the city council. Liquor license is next issue.
7. Next Board Meeting: Monday, October 17 at 7 pm
8. Treasurer’s report. Submitted. Ending August 30th, was $12,217.25
9. Meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Marathon 2011
Some great photos that remind us why the Twin Cities Marathon is considered one of the most beautiful in the country, and why it ends on Summit!
(photo credit Patrick Rhone)
Monday, October 10, 2011
Cathedral Heritage Foundation Lecture: Architectural features tell stories of medieval life
The Cathedral Heritage Foundation invites the public to a lecture which takes apart features of cathedrals in the Middle Ages to illustrate the impact of Christian philosophy on Western culture. William Cook, Ph.D., Cornell University, will present “Like Dante, Like Thomas Aquinas: The Cathedral as synthesis of western culture,” Thursday, October 20 at 7 p.m.
The lecture will begin in Hayden Hall, located on the lower level of the Cathedral, at the corner of Summit Avenue and John Ireland Boulevard. Free parking is available in the parking lot on the south side of the Cathedral as well as ample street parking.
Professor Cook will primarily highlight examples of our European cathedrals which have helped shape western culture. He will also take those in attendance on a walking tour of our more “modern” Cathedral to point out features. “Gazing toward the dome of the Cathedral of Saint Paul, we find mosaics of the four cardinal virtues--prudence, justice, temperance, fortitude. Since these virtues are first grouped together by Plato and we find them in a cathedral, Saint Paul's continues the tradition of synthesis that I will illuminate as I take those present on a 'tour' of some of the salient features of medieval cathedrals,” writes Cook.
For more information, visit www.cathedralsaintpaul.org or call the Welcome Center at 651-228-1766. To view photos of the Cathedral of Saint Paul’s interior and exterior go to http://www.cathedralsaintpaul.org/album
The lecture will begin in Hayden Hall, located on the lower level of the Cathedral, at the corner of Summit Avenue and John Ireland Boulevard. Free parking is available in the parking lot on the south side of the Cathedral as well as ample street parking.
Professor Cook will primarily highlight examples of our European cathedrals which have helped shape western culture. He will also take those in attendance on a walking tour of our more “modern” Cathedral to point out features. “Gazing toward the dome of the Cathedral of Saint Paul, we find mosaics of the four cardinal virtues--prudence, justice, temperance, fortitude. Since these virtues are first grouped together by Plato and we find them in a cathedral, Saint Paul's continues the tradition of synthesis that I will illuminate as I take those present on a 'tour' of some of the salient features of medieval cathedrals,” writes Cook.
For more information, visit www.cathedralsaintpaul.org or call the Welcome Center at 651-228-1766. To view photos of the Cathedral of Saint Paul’s interior and exterior go to http://www.cathedralsaintpaul.org/album
Sunday, September 25, 2011
SARPA Fundraiser at 977 Summit
“Sneak Peek” at Newly Renovated 977 Summit —
An Exclusive SARPA Fundraiser
Sunday, October 9 • 2-5pm
The Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association (SARPA) invites you to a “Sneak Peek” of Summit Avenue’s most talked-about recent renovations!
Come explore the transformation of this gracious Summit Avenue Mediterranean villa built in 1924. After years of neglect and deterioration, new owners have undertaken a complete renovation of the interior, exterior, and site. Take a peek behind the scenes at this nearly completed project before the owners move in. The project deftly balances a respect for the historic integrity of the house with updates for modern living and luxe conveniences. The two units stylistically are very different—one is strikingly modern while the other is more traditional. The contrasting designs reflect the multi-generational owners’ tastes and illustrate approaches to living in an old house. In addition to the extensive renovation, which includes three new kitchens and seven new bathrooms, feel free to explore other features such as a new tennis court, swimming pool, and four-car carriage house. The project also boasts state of the art geothermal systems and other energy efficiency measures. It is designed for LEED® Gold Certification.
This exclusive “Sneak Peek” opens the home to SARPA guests just before the owners finally move into the home after over two years of continuous renovations. The project has faced extensive challenges, including a massive rebuild of the base structure and stucco work after early demolition found that the internal gutter system had failed, and that the wood framing had rotted. As many original elements of the home were kept as possible, while others items, such as roof tiles and leaded glass windows, were painstakingly replicated.
The event is a fundraiser for SARPA’s educational outreach — including the winter free lecture series. Tickets are just $10, and available online via http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/197104, through the 24/7 Ticket Hotline at 1-800-838-3006, or cash or check at the door, if any remain. Light refreshments will be served.
Very special thanks to the event sponsors, David Heide Design, and to the two generations of Olson families moving in!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Renewal Time!
It’s time to renew your annual membership! It’s been a great year for the Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association, with a lot of new initiatives that we could not have taken on without the support of people like you.
We’ve continued our ongoing work with historic preservation and land use along Summit, including serving a key role on the West Summit Neighborhood Advisory Committee regarding the steady expansion of the University of St. Thomas. We’ve also advised in land use issues, trying to find the right balance between historic preservation and a changing community.
Most of all, though, we’ve listened to what you want. You told us you wanted:
• Better communication — so we beefed up the blog, added a Facebook page, and re-instated a periodic print newsletter. We’re looking at a listserv, a brochure, and other mechanisms.
• Education — so we started a popular lecture series, which we’ll bring back this winter. We also held a traffic forum, and will continue to work on that issue, We’re also thinking about book groups and publications!
• Gardens — so we’ve continued keeping up the Ayd Mill planters and the Monument gardens, as well as holding our popular Garden Stroll.
• Social Activities — so we held a members’ event, the Annual Meeting, and a garage sale. There are even more events lined up for this next year!
We’ve got even more ideas for next year, but as a volunteer organization that relies on its membership, we can’t do it without you! Please renew your membership today by sending your $30 household dues to:
SARPA
PO Box 40351
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Looking forward to seeing you at SARPA events this fall,
Bethany Gladhill
President
We’ve continued our ongoing work with historic preservation and land use along Summit, including serving a key role on the West Summit Neighborhood Advisory Committee regarding the steady expansion of the University of St. Thomas. We’ve also advised in land use issues, trying to find the right balance between historic preservation and a changing community.
Most of all, though, we’ve listened to what you want. You told us you wanted:
• Better communication — so we beefed up the blog, added a Facebook page, and re-instated a periodic print newsletter. We’re looking at a listserv, a brochure, and other mechanisms.
• Education — so we started a popular lecture series, which we’ll bring back this winter. We also held a traffic forum, and will continue to work on that issue, We’re also thinking about book groups and publications!
• Gardens — so we’ve continued keeping up the Ayd Mill planters and the Monument gardens, as well as holding our popular Garden Stroll.
• Social Activities — so we held a members’ event, the Annual Meeting, and a garage sale. There are even more events lined up for this next year!
We’ve got even more ideas for next year, but as a volunteer organization that relies on its membership, we can’t do it without you! Please renew your membership today by sending your $30 household dues to:
SARPA
PO Box 40351
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Looking forward to seeing you at SARPA events this fall,
Bethany Gladhill
President
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Great Summit Garage Sale
We've been kind of flying under the radar with the Great Summit Garage Sale, but we hope you can participate!
This Saturday, August 20, sell off some stuff you don't need anymore! Garage sale, porch sale, lemonade stand, whatever you like.
We're getting some ads, and it's the same day as the Macalester-Groveland sale, so hopefully there will be a lot of people attending!
This Saturday, August 20, sell off some stuff you don't need anymore! Garage sale, porch sale, lemonade stand, whatever you like.
We're getting some ads, and it's the same day as the Macalester-Groveland sale, so hopefully there will be a lot of people attending!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Dittenhofer House Fire
Here are some pictures of the fire at 705 Summit, courtesy of the St. Paul Fire Department. Looks like restoration work is beginning already!
SARPA's Position on the House of Hope Church Garden
Many local residents have contacted us with regards to the front yard garden at the House of Hope Church — and particularly its fencing. Please note that, since the church chose not to contact SARPA directly regarding their plans, we were not able to be directly involved with the process, which might have saved everyone a lot of headaches. Regardless, here is the SARPA board's official position, as taken in June 2011, which is in favor of the garden but not the fence:
13 July, 2011
Amy Spong
Heritage Preservation Specialist
City of Saint Paul
25 Fourth Street West, Suite 1400
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Dear Amy,
I am writing this letter to clarify SARPA’s position on the new front-yard garden at House of Hope Church, located at 797 Summit Avenue.
House of Hope never formally or informally solicited SARPA’s position on the garden. However, one of our members brought it to our attention following an article on the garden in the Pioneer Press. SARPA never took a formal position on the garden, but in an exchange of emails regarding the plan, board members were generally personally in favor of the garden. Reasons cited were its innovative use, its addition to the diverse gardens of Summit, and most of all, the fact that it was reversible and non-invasive. Some members contacted the church directly to indicate their support, and the garden was part of the year’s Garden Stroll.
Board members, however, were completely unaware of the corral-style fence, which took us by surprise. We feel that no one knew that the fence was part of the plan, and find it extremely historically inappropriate.
At our June board meeting, the SARPA board unanimously passed the following:
That:
• Although we are in favor of the front-yard garden located at House of Hope,
• We are unanimously opposed to the corral-style fence surrounding the garden. We believe it historically inappropriate, and strongly doubt that it would be allowed in any other (private or public) front yard along Summit Avenue.
• We request that the HPC reverse its approval of the fence, and that its is immediately removed.
• We request that any fence put in its place undergoes thorough HPC design review, and that it is historically appropriate. Suggestions include wrought iron (or similar), or appropriate wood pickets, perhaps with plant screenings.
• If, for whatever reason, an approved historic fence is not possible, we request that the garden is either unfenced or relocated.
We appreciate the working relationship that SARPA has with the city’s HPC, and hope that this relationship and communication only improves!
Sincerely,
Bethany Gladhill
SARPA President
13 July, 2011
Amy Spong
Heritage Preservation Specialist
City of Saint Paul
25 Fourth Street West, Suite 1400
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Dear Amy,
I am writing this letter to clarify SARPA’s position on the new front-yard garden at House of Hope Church, located at 797 Summit Avenue.
House of Hope never formally or informally solicited SARPA’s position on the garden. However, one of our members brought it to our attention following an article on the garden in the Pioneer Press. SARPA never took a formal position on the garden, but in an exchange of emails regarding the plan, board members were generally personally in favor of the garden. Reasons cited were its innovative use, its addition to the diverse gardens of Summit, and most of all, the fact that it was reversible and non-invasive. Some members contacted the church directly to indicate their support, and the garden was part of the year’s Garden Stroll.
Board members, however, were completely unaware of the corral-style fence, which took us by surprise. We feel that no one knew that the fence was part of the plan, and find it extremely historically inappropriate.
At our June board meeting, the SARPA board unanimously passed the following:
That:
• Although we are in favor of the front-yard garden located at House of Hope,
• We are unanimously opposed to the corral-style fence surrounding the garden. We believe it historically inappropriate, and strongly doubt that it would be allowed in any other (private or public) front yard along Summit Avenue.
• We request that the HPC reverse its approval of the fence, and that its is immediately removed.
• We request that any fence put in its place undergoes thorough HPC design review, and that it is historically appropriate. Suggestions include wrought iron (or similar), or appropriate wood pickets, perhaps with plant screenings.
• If, for whatever reason, an approved historic fence is not possible, we request that the garden is either unfenced or relocated.
We appreciate the working relationship that SARPA has with the city’s HPC, and hope that this relationship and communication only improves!
Sincerely,
Bethany Gladhill
SARPA President
Sunday, June 26, 2011
SARPA on the news
The Garden Guy on Channel 9 news talks about SARPA's Stroll:
Stroll coverage
Tickets are available the day of the stroll--that's today!--so if you were waiting to see what the weather was going to do, you can buy your tickets now.
Stroll & Tea today 1 PM to 5 PM.
Stroll coverage
Tickets are available the day of the stroll--that's today!--so if you were waiting to see what the weather was going to do, you can buy your tickets now.
Stroll & Tea today 1 PM to 5 PM.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Quick Updates
Great Annual Meeting tonight! Welcome to the board, Ed Bohrer and Brian Millberg, and we were thrilled to re-elect Elisabeth Paper!
Please come to the Garden Stroll on Sunday — the weather is supposed to be great, the gardens are magnificent, and the tea looks delicious! Follow us on Facebook for sneak peeks!
Please come to the Garden Stroll on Sunday — the weather is supposed to be great, the gardens are magnificent, and the tea looks delicious! Follow us on Facebook for sneak peeks!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Garden Countdown
Did you know that the Summit Garden Stroll is Sunday, June 26? We're doing a countdown to the Stroll over on our Facebook page, where you can get a daily sneak preview of the gardens on this year's tour. "Like" is and they'll show up in your news feed daily!
Meanwhile, here's the menu for the tea, just to get your mouth watering:
Catered by the Golden Fig
Tickets to the Stroll $10 and the Tea $12
Menu:
Tomato Basil Tea Sandwich (Made with local hydroponically grown tomatoes and Dehn Garden Basil)
Cucumber Dill Tea Sandwich with Lemon Dill Butter (made with local hydroponic cucumbers and Dehn's Garden Dill)
Endive with seasonal salad on each leaf (either asparagus with an herbed vinaigrette, or spring peas and radishes depending on what’s seasonal at the time.)
Freshly Baked Lemon Scone with selection of toppers-Devonshire cream, local strawberry preserves and local honey.
Espresso Chocolate Chip and Lemon Shortbread cookies
Macaroons with a dollop of fresh lemon curd in the center
Baby Brownies
Milk and Dark foil wrapped chocolates from local chocolatiers
Tea inspired trail mix- Almonds, Door County dried cherries, pistachios and rose petals Skewered Blackberries with fresh lemon zest and Lavender Lemon Syrup
Fresh Lavender Lemonade
A selection of tea in bags and iced tea from local tea blender Mindy Kelley.
There will also be a selection of fresh citrus wedges, sugar cubes and local honey to serve with the tea.
Tickets available at SARPA.org or at Johnson & Sons Florist at 1738 Grand Ave.; Kowalski's Markets at all eight locations including Grand Ave., Woodbury and White Bear Lake; and Frattallone's Ace Hardware Stores at two locations: 650 & 1676 Grand Ave.
Meanwhile, here's the menu for the tea, just to get your mouth watering:
Catered by the Golden Fig
Tickets to the Stroll $10 and the Tea $12
Menu:
Tomato Basil Tea Sandwich (Made with local hydroponically grown tomatoes and Dehn Garden Basil)
Cucumber Dill Tea Sandwich with Lemon Dill Butter (made with local hydroponic cucumbers and Dehn's Garden Dill)
Endive with seasonal salad on each leaf (either asparagus with an herbed vinaigrette, or spring peas and radishes depending on what’s seasonal at the time.)
Freshly Baked Lemon Scone with selection of toppers-Devonshire cream, local strawberry preserves and local honey.
Espresso Chocolate Chip and Lemon Shortbread cookies
Macaroons with a dollop of fresh lemon curd in the center
Baby Brownies
Milk and Dark foil wrapped chocolates from local chocolatiers
Tea inspired trail mix- Almonds, Door County dried cherries, pistachios and rose petals Skewered Blackberries with fresh lemon zest and Lavender Lemon Syrup
Fresh Lavender Lemonade
A selection of tea in bags and iced tea from local tea blender Mindy Kelley.
There will also be a selection of fresh citrus wedges, sugar cubes and local honey to serve with the tea.
Tickets available at SARPA.org or at Johnson & Sons Florist at 1738 Grand Ave.; Kowalski's Markets at all eight locations including Grand Ave., Woodbury and White Bear Lake; and Frattallone's Ace Hardware Stores at two locations: 650 & 1676 Grand Ave.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Volunteer with SARPA for Summer Gardening!
One of SARPA's main projects is the public gardens on Summit, specifically the planters on the Ayd Mill Road overpass and the Monument garden at the river. Can you help us take care of them?
We'll be planting the Ayd Mill planters on Thursday, June 2, starting between 9/9:30 am. Master gardener Marge Hols will again be coordinating the plantings, so not only will you help us out, but you'll learn a lot. Many hands make light work; just show up if you would like to help.
We also need people to help water the planters this summer (it costs us close to $2,000 if we want the city to do it). There are 7 planters, and each needs 2 gallons twice a week. Can you sign up for one week this summer?
We'll likely need help with the Monument Garden as well, but that's not set yet.
Email us at hello@SARPA.org if you can help out, or just leave a comment below and we'll get in touch with you!
We'll be planting the Ayd Mill planters on Thursday, June 2, starting between 9/9:30 am. Master gardener Marge Hols will again be coordinating the plantings, so not only will you help us out, but you'll learn a lot. Many hands make light work; just show up if you would like to help.
We also need people to help water the planters this summer (it costs us close to $2,000 if we want the city to do it). There are 7 planters, and each needs 2 gallons twice a week. Can you sign up for one week this summer?
We'll likely need help with the Monument Garden as well, but that's not set yet.
Email us at hello@SARPA.org if you can help out, or just leave a comment below and we'll get in touch with you!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Annual Meeting Set for Monday, June 20
Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association
ANNUAL MEETING
Monday, June 20 • 7:00pm
At the home of Mary and Chip Michels
1731 Summit Avenue
• Come hear about SARPA activities: historic preservation and land use, lectures, Summit parks and public gardens, the Garden Stroll and Tea, gift card fundraiser, traffic issues, upcoming Garage Sale Day, and more!
• Enjoy delicious desserts!
• Meet and socialize your neighbors!
• Renew your SARPA membership, or join for the new fiscal year. Just $30 per household, good through June, 2012.
No need to RSVP. Questions? Call SARPA President Bethany Gladhill at 651.227.1839, or email us at hello@sarpa.org.
ANNUAL MEETING
Monday, June 20 • 7:00pm
At the home of Mary and Chip Michels
1731 Summit Avenue
• Come hear about SARPA activities: historic preservation and land use, lectures, Summit parks and public gardens, the Garden Stroll and Tea, gift card fundraiser, traffic issues, upcoming Garage Sale Day, and more!
• Enjoy delicious desserts!
• Meet and socialize your neighbors!
• Renew your SARPA membership, or join for the new fiscal year. Just $30 per household, good through June, 2012.
No need to RSVP. Questions? Call SARPA President Bethany Gladhill at 651.227.1839, or email us at hello@sarpa.org.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Our Friends at Laura Jeffreys Academy
You have one more day (tomorrow, Saturday May 14) to check out their plant sale and spring fundraiser!
Then come back on Monday night for the SARPA traffic meeting in their gymnasium; they are donating the space for this important community meeting.
1850 Summit, just east of Snelling on the south side of the street.
Then come back on Monday night for the SARPA traffic meeting in their gymnasium; they are donating the space for this important community meeting.
1850 Summit, just east of Snelling on the south side of the street.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Garden Stroll Coming!
Here's the press release on the Garden Stroll:
Contact: Carolyn Will 612-414-9661
Email: carolyn.will@comcast.net
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2011
(St. Paul, Minn) The Summit Avenue Garden Stroll is back and better than ever. Sunday, June 26th from 1-5 p.m., ticketholders are invited to enjoy one of our country’s most magnificent stretches of urban green spaces as well as walk into the back yards of select Summit Avenue mansions to see their magnificent gardens.
Ten homeowners along Saint Paul’s historical Summit Avenue will open their gardens for the public to enjoy. Tickets costs $10 for the Summit Avenue Garden Stroll, plus an additional $10 for the informal Garden Stroll Tea open throughout the afternoon, from 1-5 p.m. on the rose garden terrace of Mount Zion Temple, 1300 Summit Avenue. A master gardener will be at the tea to answer questions.
Tickets may be purchased at the following places of business:
Johnson & Sons Florist, 1738 Grand Ave.
Kowalski’s Markets at all eight locations including Grand Ave., Woodbury and White Bear Lake
Frattallone’s Ace Hardware Stores at two locations: 650 & 1676 Grand Av.
SARPA will donate ten percent of its proceeds from this event to Second Harvest Food Bank.
The Summit Avenue Garden Stroll & Tea will be held rain or shine. More details will be available at www.sarpa.org. The Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association sponsors the Stroll and Tea and is proud to announce that Summit Avenue has been recognized in 2008 as the “Nation’s Best Intact Street from Victorian Era,” by the American Planning Association.
We still need gardens, and volunteers! Let us know if you are willing to help!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Summit Traffic Meeting
Summit Avenue Traffic Public Hearing
(Saint Paul, MN) May 3, 2011 - The Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association (SARPA) will hold a public hearing on traffic issues on Summit Avenue Monday, May 16th from 6:00 p.m – 8:00 p.m., in the gymnasium at the Laura Jeffries Academy, 1550 Summit Avenue, at the corner of Snelling and Summit.
“We all like to get outside and walk Summit Avenue in the warm season, but our beautiful Victorian Boulevard has become a speedway for everyone it seems from beer trucks to taxis and motorcycles,” said Bethany Gladhill, SARPA President. “We’d like to hear from area residents if this issue is concerning to them and what ideas they might have for resolving the problem.”
Local city councilors and law enforcement officers have also been invited to listen in at the public hearing.
Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association's mission is to preserve the historic, residential, and urban park character of Summit Avenue through advocacy, communication, and education.
(Saint Paul, MN) May 3, 2011 - The Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association (SARPA) will hold a public hearing on traffic issues on Summit Avenue Monday, May 16th from 6:00 p.m – 8:00 p.m., in the gymnasium at the Laura Jeffries Academy, 1550 Summit Avenue, at the corner of Snelling and Summit.
“We all like to get outside and walk Summit Avenue in the warm season, but our beautiful Victorian Boulevard has become a speedway for everyone it seems from beer trucks to taxis and motorcycles,” said Bethany Gladhill, SARPA President. “We’d like to hear from area residents if this issue is concerning to them and what ideas they might have for resolving the problem.”
Local city councilors and law enforcement officers have also been invited to listen in at the public hearing.
Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association's mission is to preserve the historic, residential, and urban park character of Summit Avenue through advocacy, communication, and education.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Happy Earth Day!
Did you know that SARPA is involved with many of the public gardens on Summit, including planting the urns over Ayd Mill Road, planting the Memorial by the river, and donating funds to Lookout Park? Our bi-annual Garden Stroll, this year on June 26, is our big fundraiser that provides money for these efforts.
Why not do a little sprucing up of the street on your own today and pick up some trash, or even plant some early spring pansies on your boulevard?
Why not do a little sprucing up of the street on your own today and pick up some trash, or even plant some early spring pansies on your boulevard?
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
House Hunting
Looking for a place on Summit? There's a lot on the market right now in all styles and price ranges:
235 Summit Avenue - 699,900
251 Summit Avenue - $847,000
302 Summit Avenue #F - $269,900
302 Summit Avenue - $269,900
322 Summit Avenue - $1,339,000
324 Summit Avenue #1 - $1,099,000
324 Summit Avenue #2 - $1,049,000
332 Summit Avenue - $1,589,900
415 Summit Avenue #2 - $385,000
456 Summit Avenue #202- $169,900
476 Summit Avenue - $1,290,000
490 Summit Avenue - $1,250,000
505 Summit Avenue - $1,250,000
516 Summit Avenue - $1,595,000
579 Summit Avenue #104 - $116,980
604 Summit Avenue #604- $179,000
665 Summit Avenue - $650,000
670 Summit Avenue - $899,900
676 Summit Avenue #201 - $420,000
701 Summit Avenue - $679,000
834 Summit Avenue #3 - $399,900
965 Summit Avenue - $1,950,000
976 Summit Avenue - $1,695,000
1082 Summit Avenue - $925,000
1307 Summit Avenue - $1,150,000
1896 Summit Avenue - $845,000
235 Summit Avenue - 699,900
251 Summit Avenue - $847,000
302 Summit Avenue #F - $269,900
302 Summit Avenue - $269,900
322 Summit Avenue - $1,339,000
324 Summit Avenue #1 - $1,099,000
324 Summit Avenue #2 - $1,049,000
332 Summit Avenue - $1,589,900
415 Summit Avenue #2 - $385,000
456 Summit Avenue #202- $169,900
476 Summit Avenue - $1,290,000
490 Summit Avenue - $1,250,000
505 Summit Avenue - $1,250,000
516 Summit Avenue - $1,595,000
579 Summit Avenue #104 - $116,980
604 Summit Avenue #604- $179,000
665 Summit Avenue - $650,000
670 Summit Avenue - $899,900
676 Summit Avenue #201 - $420,000
701 Summit Avenue - $679,000
834 Summit Avenue #3 - $399,900
965 Summit Avenue - $1,950,000
976 Summit Avenue - $1,695,000
1082 Summit Avenue - $925,000
1307 Summit Avenue - $1,150,000
1896 Summit Avenue - $845,000
Monday, April 18, 2011
March Meeting Minutes
Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association
MEETING MINUTES
Board Meeting: March 28, 2011 7:08 p.m.
Meeting Location: Rachel Westmeyer’s home at 1935 Summit Avenue
Recorded by: Carolyn Will, Secretary
Present: Bethany Gladhill, K.D. Athow, Mary Lynch, Carolyn Will, Rachel Westmeyer, Harry Walsh, Francis Luikart, Elizabeth Paper
Absent: Jim Groskopf, Alison Enestvedt, Mary Michaels, Kit Natz
1. Called to order at 7:10 p.m. President called the meeting to order.
2. Minutes approved: KD moves and Mary seconds. Passes unanimously.
3. Treasurer’s report.
a. Deposited a few more membership dues.
b. With the news that M&I has been sold, the account will remain at Associated Bank until a new Treasurer assumes the position and does additional research.
c. Bethany showed a device called a “square,” which can be used to swipe credit cards when it’s connected to a iphone or ipad. This could be used for events such as the Garden Stroll.
d. Web hosting costs approx. $35/month and Mary said she would investigate less expensive options.
4. WSNAC:
a. Rachel W. said the community dinners have been well-received.
• WASNAC meeting Tuesday, March 8th at 6:30 p.m. Mpls attorney Louis Smith presented his final thoughts on ways to rebuild community around UST. We are over the tipping point on rental. The records show 51% of the residents are renters in Union Park neighborhood.
• UST Geography Department engaged a student to research the nonhomesteading numbers and mark the change over the past several years. The research showed that in 2002, the surrounding neighborhood had 10.6% non-homesteaded. In 2009 to the number doubled to 21% nonhomesteaders.
• According to Louis, the nonhomesteading tipping point is 31%... that’s when the neighborhood starts to go into decline.
• Findings: UST is committed to addressing student behavior, and working on relationship with the neighborhood.
• Conclusion: UST does not see the nonhomesteading issue as a crisis, but it does a pose a problem for their relationship with the neighborhood.
• UST looking for grants to help bring more UST professors back into the neighborhood. Suggestion: Offer down payment assistance, ie. $7,500 for UST employees, $5,000 for others. Goal: Give 80 grants in 10 years.
• Audacious Goals: Get back below the tipping point in Merriam Park where it is has been 50% rental for the past 7 or 8 years. Mr. Louis suggested that it get below 30%. “re-convert’ 100 parcels to homestead in ten years. Organize landlords and offer training to students on behavior! Promote student rental training.
5. President’s Report: Membership committee.
a. Sunday, April 17 Renewing and New Membership Meeting 4-6 pm social meeting to follow at 6 p.m. Call out for members to bring a new potential new member.
b. Discussion on reasons to join SARPA will be highlighted in the upcoming newsletter.
6. Garden Stroll & Tea: Scheduled for Sunday, June 26 , 1-5 p.m.
a. Vendor options:
Chow Girls from NE Mpls: Menu submitted. $586 per 100.
Would need refrigeration.
B. Location for Tea: Temple of Aaron, Look Out Park, Macalester Alumni House.
A. Governor’s Mansion: Requested a FACT Sheet detailing what it involves for them.
Bethany would like to see gardens that have a unique feature.
Gardens that are on our working list:
573 Summit (neighbor to Kit Natz)
955 Summit (formal garden front and back) Sherry Wilsey
1941 Summit: Rain Garden
1490 Summit: Backyard poultry & front yard landscaped with all native plants,
B. Sonja Mason said Cass Gilbert Society would like to participate this year. Bethany will request that the CG group identify a CG home on Summit which could be featured on the stroll. As well as supply us with a few volunteers.
C. Mary will ask her neighbors who did organic gardening…
D. Check out the house across the Meltzer’s…
E. Tickets $10/ $10
F. Expert: YES Jeff Gillman, U of M Professor of Horticulture could be considered.
G. KD moves that we name Second Harvest as our charity, donating 10% of our proceeds and the motion passed unanimously.
H. Set date for Garden committee meeting: Monday,April 4 , 7 p.m. @ 1583 Summit Ave.
New Business
b. Traffic meeting: Amy Spong, city’s STAR preservation officer, said the city will be replacing the guard rail over Ayd Mill Road, adding wrought iron and lanterns.
c. Vehicular traffic at William Mitchell.
I. The city has proposed bumpouts. SARPA board members sighted the many hazards associated with bumpouts. See white paper attached.
II. Mary Lynch suggests we ask the city to put a police officer at the intersection to monitor and ticket those motorists not yielding to pedestrians.
III. KD raised the issued of the parking along Summit and making it difficult to see around the cars when attempting to pull out from a side street. She suggested more “no parking” signs, reminding motorists of law that no parking allowed within 15 feet of intersection and 30 feet from stop sign.
IV. Elizabeth would like the SARPA position to reflect that we are concerned about many intersections along Summit Ave. Dale & Snelling are both extremely hazardous intersections.
V. Bethany moved that her white paper be submitted to the city on behalf of SARPA’s position on the proposed bumpouts as solution to the William Mitchell student safety issue.
7. Garage Sale: Mary Lynch will explore setting up a Summit Ave. Garage Sale.
8. Donations: Elizabeth would like to see SARPA donate money to help Ramsey Hill organization pay for the lighting of Nathan Hale Park on the holiday/winter lighting.
KD Moves and Mary seconds that SARPA donate $300 to Ramsey Hill Association for holiday lighting for 2011-12. The motion carried unanimously.
9. Annual Meeting: June 20th
10. KD volunteered to be Treasurer following Alison’s term ends.
11. Old Business.
a. New book coming out told from Coco Irvine, sister to Olivia Irvine Dodge, who grew up at 1006 Summit, which is now used as the Governor’s Mansion.
b. 100 birthday cards went out to homeowners.
12. Next board meet will be Sunday, April 17 from 4-6 Social. SARPA will provide beverages/wine and Meeting to follow at 6 p.m. Kit’s home: 591 Summit Avenue
13. Meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
MEETING MINUTES
Board Meeting: March 28, 2011 7:08 p.m.
Meeting Location: Rachel Westmeyer’s home at 1935 Summit Avenue
Recorded by: Carolyn Will, Secretary
Present: Bethany Gladhill, K.D. Athow, Mary Lynch, Carolyn Will, Rachel Westmeyer, Harry Walsh, Francis Luikart, Elizabeth Paper
Absent: Jim Groskopf, Alison Enestvedt, Mary Michaels, Kit Natz
1. Called to order at 7:10 p.m. President called the meeting to order.
2. Minutes approved: KD moves and Mary seconds. Passes unanimously.
3. Treasurer’s report.
a. Deposited a few more membership dues.
b. With the news that M&I has been sold, the account will remain at Associated Bank until a new Treasurer assumes the position and does additional research.
c. Bethany showed a device called a “square,” which can be used to swipe credit cards when it’s connected to a iphone or ipad. This could be used for events such as the Garden Stroll.
d. Web hosting costs approx. $35/month and Mary said she would investigate less expensive options.
4. WSNAC:
a. Rachel W. said the community dinners have been well-received.
• WASNAC meeting Tuesday, March 8th at 6:30 p.m. Mpls attorney Louis Smith presented his final thoughts on ways to rebuild community around UST. We are over the tipping point on rental. The records show 51% of the residents are renters in Union Park neighborhood.
• UST Geography Department engaged a student to research the nonhomesteading numbers and mark the change over the past several years. The research showed that in 2002, the surrounding neighborhood had 10.6% non-homesteaded. In 2009 to the number doubled to 21% nonhomesteaders.
• According to Louis, the nonhomesteading tipping point is 31%... that’s when the neighborhood starts to go into decline.
• Findings: UST is committed to addressing student behavior, and working on relationship with the neighborhood.
• Conclusion: UST does not see the nonhomesteading issue as a crisis, but it does a pose a problem for their relationship with the neighborhood.
• UST looking for grants to help bring more UST professors back into the neighborhood. Suggestion: Offer down payment assistance, ie. $7,500 for UST employees, $5,000 for others. Goal: Give 80 grants in 10 years.
• Audacious Goals: Get back below the tipping point in Merriam Park where it is has been 50% rental for the past 7 or 8 years. Mr. Louis suggested that it get below 30%. “re-convert’ 100 parcels to homestead in ten years. Organize landlords and offer training to students on behavior! Promote student rental training.
5. President’s Report: Membership committee.
a. Sunday, April 17 Renewing and New Membership Meeting 4-6 pm social meeting to follow at 6 p.m. Call out for members to bring a new potential new member.
b. Discussion on reasons to join SARPA will be highlighted in the upcoming newsletter.
6. Garden Stroll & Tea: Scheduled for Sunday, June 26 , 1-5 p.m.
a. Vendor options:
Chow Girls from NE Mpls: Menu submitted. $586 per 100.
Would need refrigeration.
B. Location for Tea: Temple of Aaron, Look Out Park, Macalester Alumni House.
A. Governor’s Mansion: Requested a FACT Sheet detailing what it involves for them.
Bethany would like to see gardens that have a unique feature.
Gardens that are on our working list:
573 Summit (neighbor to Kit Natz)
955 Summit (formal garden front and back) Sherry Wilsey
1941 Summit: Rain Garden
1490 Summit: Backyard poultry & front yard landscaped with all native plants,
B. Sonja Mason said Cass Gilbert Society would like to participate this year. Bethany will request that the CG group identify a CG home on Summit which could be featured on the stroll. As well as supply us with a few volunteers.
C. Mary will ask her neighbors who did organic gardening…
D. Check out the house across the Meltzer’s…
E. Tickets $10/ $10
F. Expert: YES Jeff Gillman, U of M Professor of Horticulture could be considered.
G. KD moves that we name Second Harvest as our charity, donating 10% of our proceeds and the motion passed unanimously.
H. Set date for Garden committee meeting: Monday,April 4 , 7 p.m. @ 1583 Summit Ave.
New Business
b. Traffic meeting: Amy Spong, city’s STAR preservation officer, said the city will be replacing the guard rail over Ayd Mill Road, adding wrought iron and lanterns.
c. Vehicular traffic at William Mitchell.
I. The city has proposed bumpouts. SARPA board members sighted the many hazards associated with bumpouts. See white paper attached.
II. Mary Lynch suggests we ask the city to put a police officer at the intersection to monitor and ticket those motorists not yielding to pedestrians.
III. KD raised the issued of the parking along Summit and making it difficult to see around the cars when attempting to pull out from a side street. She suggested more “no parking” signs, reminding motorists of law that no parking allowed within 15 feet of intersection and 30 feet from stop sign.
IV. Elizabeth would like the SARPA position to reflect that we are concerned about many intersections along Summit Ave. Dale & Snelling are both extremely hazardous intersections.
V. Bethany moved that her white paper be submitted to the city on behalf of SARPA’s position on the proposed bumpouts as solution to the William Mitchell student safety issue.
7. Garage Sale: Mary Lynch will explore setting up a Summit Ave. Garage Sale.
8. Donations: Elizabeth would like to see SARPA donate money to help Ramsey Hill organization pay for the lighting of Nathan Hale Park on the holiday/winter lighting.
KD Moves and Mary seconds that SARPA donate $300 to Ramsey Hill Association for holiday lighting for 2011-12. The motion carried unanimously.
9. Annual Meeting: June 20th
10. KD volunteered to be Treasurer following Alison’s term ends.
11. Old Business.
a. New book coming out told from Coco Irvine, sister to Olivia Irvine Dodge, who grew up at 1006 Summit, which is now used as the Governor’s Mansion.
b. 100 birthday cards went out to homeowners.
12. Next board meet will be Sunday, April 17 from 4-6 Social. SARPA will provide beverages/wine and Meeting to follow at 6 p.m. Kit’s home: 591 Summit Avenue
13. Meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Member Event this Sunday!
Come to a casual social event to meet other SARPA members, and stay for the board meeting if you like!
(if you're not a member yet, come anyway, you can join at the meeting!)
MEMBER'S RECEPTION
This Sunday, April 17 • 4-6pm
at the home of Kit and Marilyn Natz
591 Summit Avenue
RSVP: to Kit at 651-503-9870 or Darylnatz@aol.com
(if you're not a member yet, come anyway, you can join at the meeting!)
MEMBER'S RECEPTION
This Sunday, April 17 • 4-6pm
at the home of Kit and Marilyn Natz
591 Summit Avenue
RSVP: to Kit at 651-503-9870 or Darylnatz@aol.com
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
SARPA's Position on Summit Avenue Infrastructure Changes
SARPA Whitepaper on Proposed Street Infrastructure Changes Along Summit
Approved by the board on 28 March, 2011
SARPA (the Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association) is dedicated to the preservation of the historic, residential, and urban park character of Summit Avenue. SARPA was commissioned in 1986 by Mayor George Latimer and the St. Paul City Council to preserve the residential quality of Summit Avenue for future generations. As such, our main concerns are: 1) the preservation of the historic nature of Summit Avenue, and 2) the needs of the street’s residents. Our views towards proposed infrastructure changes are generally seen through those lenses. We also realize that Summit Avenue is part of four different community council districts, with SARPA as the only organization that focuses on Summit itself. Thus:
1) SARPA in general tends to oppose any changes to the configuration of Summit Avenue. The current layout generally demonstrates the historic patterns of development of the street and contributes to the urban park character of the Avenue.
2) Any changes proposed should be consistently addressed along Summit, and not confined to one area, unless reasonable cause can be demonstrated for the restriction (for example, any issues concerned with the medians would not be applicable for the parts of Summit that have no median).
3) Any changes proposed should address, as part of their rationale, a discussion of the impact on and relationship to Summit’s preservation. For example, the center medians on Summit are part of its historic character, and a traditional means of “traffic calming.” Other methods, such as speed humps, diagonal parking, and bump-outs, do not have a historic precedent in this area.
4) Any changes proposed should clearly state the problem or issue (safety, parking, etc.), and give demonstrable evidence of how the issue will be resolved through the measure.
5) Any changes proposed should first and foremost benefit the residents and other stakeholders of the street, should not put an undue burden (financial, access, etc.) on them, and should not result in any detriments to them (eg: loss of parking, etc.)
6) The Summit Avenue roadway is shared by a variety of vehicles, including cars but also including bicycles and runners/walkers when the street is closed for events. Certain traffic calming methods would make the street much more dangerous for these users; for example, bump-outs would push the bicycle lane farther into the main traffic flow, which would be dangerous.
7) In general, traffic calming methods such as bump-outs, chicanes, diverters, traffic circles, etc., are designed only to be effective on low-volume, local streets. While we would all appreciate slower auto speeds and more walkability on Summit, we remain unconvinced that it is an appropriate street for new traffic calming initiatives.
If residents or neighborhood groups are interested in effecting infrastructure changes along Summit Avenue, we encourage them to discuss these issues in advance with SARPA. We are also concerned with traffic and safety on Summit, and want the street to be better for all of us.
Approved by the board on 28 March, 2011
SARPA (the Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association) is dedicated to the preservation of the historic, residential, and urban park character of Summit Avenue. SARPA was commissioned in 1986 by Mayor George Latimer and the St. Paul City Council to preserve the residential quality of Summit Avenue for future generations. As such, our main concerns are: 1) the preservation of the historic nature of Summit Avenue, and 2) the needs of the street’s residents. Our views towards proposed infrastructure changes are generally seen through those lenses. We also realize that Summit Avenue is part of four different community council districts, with SARPA as the only organization that focuses on Summit itself. Thus:
1) SARPA in general tends to oppose any changes to the configuration of Summit Avenue. The current layout generally demonstrates the historic patterns of development of the street and contributes to the urban park character of the Avenue.
2) Any changes proposed should be consistently addressed along Summit, and not confined to one area, unless reasonable cause can be demonstrated for the restriction (for example, any issues concerned with the medians would not be applicable for the parts of Summit that have no median).
3) Any changes proposed should address, as part of their rationale, a discussion of the impact on and relationship to Summit’s preservation. For example, the center medians on Summit are part of its historic character, and a traditional means of “traffic calming.” Other methods, such as speed humps, diagonal parking, and bump-outs, do not have a historic precedent in this area.
4) Any changes proposed should clearly state the problem or issue (safety, parking, etc.), and give demonstrable evidence of how the issue will be resolved through the measure.
5) Any changes proposed should first and foremost benefit the residents and other stakeholders of the street, should not put an undue burden (financial, access, etc.) on them, and should not result in any detriments to them (eg: loss of parking, etc.)
6) The Summit Avenue roadway is shared by a variety of vehicles, including cars but also including bicycles and runners/walkers when the street is closed for events. Certain traffic calming methods would make the street much more dangerous for these users; for example, bump-outs would push the bicycle lane farther into the main traffic flow, which would be dangerous.
7) In general, traffic calming methods such as bump-outs, chicanes, diverters, traffic circles, etc., are designed only to be effective on low-volume, local streets. While we would all appreciate slower auto speeds and more walkability on Summit, we remain unconvinced that it is an appropriate street for new traffic calming initiatives.
If residents or neighborhood groups are interested in effecting infrastructure changes along Summit Avenue, we encourage them to discuss these issues in advance with SARPA. We are also concerned with traffic and safety on Summit, and want the street to be better for all of us.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
February Meeting Minutes
Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association
MEETING MINUTES
Board Meeting: February 28, 2011 7:15 p.m.
Meeting Location: Rachel Westmeyer’s home at 1935 Summit Avenue
Recorded by: Carolyn Will, Secretary
Present: Bethany Gladhill, Harry Walsh, Carolyn Will, , Francis Luikart,, Rachel Westmeyer, Kit Natz
Absent: Jim Groskopf, ,Elizabeth Paper , Alison Enestvedt, Mary Michaels, K.D. Athow
1. Called to order at 7:17 p.m. President called the meeting to order.
2. Minutes approved: Kit moves and Rachel and Francis second
3. Treasurer’s report. None submitted.
4. President’s Report: Membership committee.
a. Kit Natz submitted SARPA Resident list. This includes the ability to track membership dues. Membership runs June to June.
b. Homeowners application w. mailing addresses Bethany used this the last newsletter mailing. Will be made available to Christian.
c. A “Call Out” for new members will be posted in the Summit Newsletter and Ramsey Hill publication and the summer issue of “The Illuminator. “
d. Christian will host April membership gathering at his house. SARPA will pay for wine and members are asked to bring appetizers.
e. Sunday, April 17 Renewing and New Membership Meeting 4-6 pm social meeting to follow at 6 p.m. Call out for members to bring a new potential new member.
f. Discussion on reasons to join SARPA: receive bi-monthly newsletters, Garden Stroll, Member Social activities, Community works/beautification projects, education/advocacy, and lecture series.
g. Current members said they would like to see more land-use permits along Summit.
5. February Newsletter: Will be moved to a March Newsletter
6. WSNAC:
a. Rachel W. said the community dinners have been well-received.
• Liquor use permit: WASNAC voted to accept the enabling legislation for the Private College Council, not just UST. Now we wait to see if it passes through the legislature.
• Doug Hennes reviewed the events and catering services they do have on campus. Liquor is done under the catering services.
• UST Doug Hennes and Rachel hosted the third community-building dinner. The event was held on Chinese New Year. Those in attendance included two landlords, students, and residents. Discussion included forming a landlord association to help get all landlords to be more compliant.
• Next WASNAC meeting Tuesday, March 8th at 6:30 p.m. in Murray-Herrick Hall, next to the library. Mpls attorney Louis Smith will present his final thoughts on ways to rebuild community around UST. We are over the tipping point on rental. The records show 51% of the residents are renters in Union Park neighborhood.
Old Business.
7. Garden Stroll. Scheduled for Sunday, June 26
A. Governor’s Mansion: needs description of the event before they can approve their participation.
B. College Club: Booked for another event. Need to schedule 1-2 years in advance.
C. Other suggestions for tea locations: Look Out Park, Temple of Aaron.
D. Call out to Garden Stroll volunteers – Bethany will send database w. email list.
E. Rachel’s neighbor has put in rain garden.
F. Bethany would like to see gardens that a unique feature. We will attempt to have a committee meeting in late March.
New Business
a. Harry moved that SARPA moves to invite Governor Mark Dayton to become an honorary member of SARPA.
b. SARPA will also invite presidents of UST and Macalester to become members.
c. Natural Playscape. Macalester-Groveland was looking for an open area and liked the idea of putting in next to Laura Jeffries School and Mac International House. The land is currently owned by Macalester.
I. Ideas that would be included- community garden, natural playscape, community composting site.
d. William Mitchell proposed bump-outs between Victoria and Milton.
I. Members raised issues of losing more parking spaces at both ends of the block. Students have been having a difficult time crossing safely.
II. Historic Preservation Commissioner Amy Spong has declined the request.
e. Traffic issues: Bethany proposed pulling together a neighborhood meeting to discuss traffic along Summit. Suggestion was made to put the meeting at Laura Jeffries School gymnasium. Carolyn will follow up on this. Bethany will make a call out for traffic meeting in the next newsletter.
8. Next board meet will be Monday, March 28 at 7 p.m. Meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.
Meeting location at Mary’s home: 1731 Summit Ave.
MEETING MINUTES
Board Meeting: February 28, 2011 7:15 p.m.
Meeting Location: Rachel Westmeyer’s home at 1935 Summit Avenue
Recorded by: Carolyn Will, Secretary
Present: Bethany Gladhill, Harry Walsh, Carolyn Will, , Francis Luikart,, Rachel Westmeyer, Kit Natz
Absent: Jim Groskopf, ,Elizabeth Paper , Alison Enestvedt, Mary Michaels, K.D. Athow
1. Called to order at 7:17 p.m. President called the meeting to order.
2. Minutes approved: Kit moves and Rachel and Francis second
3. Treasurer’s report. None submitted.
4. President’s Report: Membership committee.
a. Kit Natz submitted SARPA Resident list. This includes the ability to track membership dues. Membership runs June to June.
b. Homeowners application w. mailing addresses Bethany used this the last newsletter mailing. Will be made available to Christian.
c. A “Call Out” for new members will be posted in the Summit Newsletter and Ramsey Hill publication and the summer issue of “The Illuminator. “
d. Christian will host April membership gathering at his house. SARPA will pay for wine and members are asked to bring appetizers.
e. Sunday, April 17 Renewing and New Membership Meeting 4-6 pm social meeting to follow at 6 p.m. Call out for members to bring a new potential new member.
f. Discussion on reasons to join SARPA: receive bi-monthly newsletters, Garden Stroll, Member Social activities, Community works/beautification projects, education/advocacy, and lecture series.
g. Current members said they would like to see more land-use permits along Summit.
5. February Newsletter: Will be moved to a March Newsletter
6. WSNAC:
a. Rachel W. said the community dinners have been well-received.
• Liquor use permit: WASNAC voted to accept the enabling legislation for the Private College Council, not just UST. Now we wait to see if it passes through the legislature.
• Doug Hennes reviewed the events and catering services they do have on campus. Liquor is done under the catering services.
• UST Doug Hennes and Rachel hosted the third community-building dinner. The event was held on Chinese New Year. Those in attendance included two landlords, students, and residents. Discussion included forming a landlord association to help get all landlords to be more compliant.
• Next WASNAC meeting Tuesday, March 8th at 6:30 p.m. in Murray-Herrick Hall, next to the library. Mpls attorney Louis Smith will present his final thoughts on ways to rebuild community around UST. We are over the tipping point on rental. The records show 51% of the residents are renters in Union Park neighborhood.
Old Business.
7. Garden Stroll. Scheduled for Sunday, June 26
A. Governor’s Mansion: needs description of the event before they can approve their participation.
B. College Club: Booked for another event. Need to schedule 1-2 years in advance.
C. Other suggestions for tea locations: Look Out Park, Temple of Aaron.
D. Call out to Garden Stroll volunteers – Bethany will send database w. email list.
E. Rachel’s neighbor has put in rain garden.
F. Bethany would like to see gardens that a unique feature. We will attempt to have a committee meeting in late March.
New Business
a. Harry moved that SARPA moves to invite Governor Mark Dayton to become an honorary member of SARPA.
b. SARPA will also invite presidents of UST and Macalester to become members.
c. Natural Playscape. Macalester-Groveland was looking for an open area and liked the idea of putting in next to Laura Jeffries School and Mac International House. The land is currently owned by Macalester.
I. Ideas that would be included- community garden, natural playscape, community composting site.
d. William Mitchell proposed bump-outs between Victoria and Milton.
I. Members raised issues of losing more parking spaces at both ends of the block. Students have been having a difficult time crossing safely.
II. Historic Preservation Commissioner Amy Spong has declined the request.
e. Traffic issues: Bethany proposed pulling together a neighborhood meeting to discuss traffic along Summit. Suggestion was made to put the meeting at Laura Jeffries School gymnasium. Carolyn will follow up on this. Bethany will make a call out for traffic meeting in the next newsletter.
8. Next board meet will be Monday, March 28 at 7 p.m. Meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.
Meeting location at Mary’s home: 1731 Summit Ave.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
January Meeting Minutes
Summit Avenue Residential Preservation Association
MEETING MINUTES
Board Meeting: January 24, 2011 7:08 p.m.
Meeting Location: Mary Michael's home
Recorded by Carolyn Will, Secretary
Present: Alison Enestvedt, Bethany Gladhill, Harry Walsh, Carolyn Will, Mary Michael, Francis Luikart, K.D. Athow. Rachel Westmeyer, Kit Natz
Absent: Jim Groskopf, Elizabeth Paper
1. Called to order at 7:11 p.m. President called the meeting to order.
2. Rachel moves and Bethany seconds minutes as distributed. Approved.
3. Treasurer’s report. Submitted by Alison.
a. Ancor. Web site hosting $140.00
b. Bethany makes motion to move account from Associated Bank to M&I Highland Office. KD seconds. Carries unanimously.
c. Mary Michaels suggests we foster a relationship with M&I to get a community sponsorship.
d. Francis Luikart volunteers to be the second signature for bank deposits over $500.
e. SARPA Membership dues deposited $520.00.
f. Money Market $12,696 .
g. Total assets: $15,899.03
4. President’s Report: Membership committee.
a. Kit Natz volunteered to Chair Membership committee. This includes tracking membership dues. Membership runs Fall to Fall.
b. Christian will create electronic database & send out thank you cards to members who renewed.
c. Homeowners application w. mailing addresses Bethany used this the last newsletter mailing. Will be made available to Christian.
d. We would like to include new members in the February newsletter.
e. Christian offered to host a membership gathering at his house.
5. February Newsletter: items to include
Talking House: Suggestion that SARPA feature the Governor’s Mansion.
Mary M. will visit Helen Murphy to gather best features.
Garden Stroll. Calling for gardeners to feature.
Summary of the lectures.
Call for membership & list of new members.
House Birthdays. 100 years: 370, 996, 1079, 1106, 1209, 1490, 1504, 1683, 1825, 1912, 1950.
**Colormation was recommended as a vendor.
6. WSNAC:
a. Rachel W. said the community dinners have been well-received.
· UST/WSNAC have hosted two to date, Oct. 14th & Dec. 2nd.
· Feb. 3, 6-8 p.m. is the next scheduled community dinner. UST hosts dinner. UST invites 5 and WSNAC invites 5. Neighbors & faculty have a chance to ask questions of Doug Hennes and two landlords, who will be the host speakers.
b. UST proposed tennis courts have not been decided. Two spaces are still up for consideration: an area near Selby & Cleveland, and the green space near River Bvd.
c. A community consultant hired and paid for by WSNAC, Louis Smith, an attorney, to rebuild a neighborhood between the residents and UST community. Summary of his report is on the WSNAC website. Rachel W. will forward to the SARPA board.
d. Rachel W. had recommended a book to Doug Hennes used by George Washington University to rebuild community around their campus.
e. Major concerns are building in anticipation of the Student Center opening and the summer receptions that will likely be scheduled in the third floor reception hall.
f. SARPA needs one more representative on WSNAC. The board is accepting volunteers. The meetings are normally the second Tuesday of the month.
g. WSNAC Liquor License information for UST, Feb. 1st at 6:30 p.m. in 155 Murray-Herrick Hall.
h. Bethany made a motion that SARPA votes against granting UST a liquor license for the first year with the suggestion that we re-visit the permit issue in one year.
7. Old Business.
a. House Birthday cards: Tom Blank
b. Florence Judge Memorial Tabled to next meeting.
8. Garden Stroll. Scheduled for Sunday, June 26
a. Tea locations: Make it known that the tea is “come as you are.”
b. Kit Natz neighbor at 573may want to participate.
c. Christian suggested we look at Bloomin’ St. Paul for category suggestions.
d. 10 gardens will be selected in clusters of 2 to 3.
e. Sell water & bottled lemonade.
f. Establish a HUB. Recommendations: College Club (first choice), Temple (second) University Club (third)
g. Price: $10 gardens, $10 tea
h. KD and Carolyn co-chair.
i. A SARPA representative will contacting the following businesses with a request to sell garden stroll tickets: Frattalones. Johnsons & Sons Florists. Kowalski’s. Café Amore, Brown Paper tickets on SARPA site.
j. Set Garden Stroll committee meeting.
k. Photographers suggested for hire to take event photos: Ken Olson, Anne Brandrud.
9. Next board meet will be Monday, February 28 at 7 p.m. Meeting adjourned at 8:56 p.m.
Meeting location at Rachel’s home: 1935 Summit Ave. Park on Howell or back of house.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Vote!
Summit Avenue has helped land Saint Paul a nomination as one of the National Trust's Dozen Distinctive Destinations! Help us win by creating an account and voting every day!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Cathedral of Saint Paul Receives Preservation Grant!
Without a concerted effort, our state’s historic and cultural treasures are in danger of being lost to time. The Minnesota Historical Society awarded a Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grant in the amount of $4,341 to the Cathedral Heritage Foundation. The Cathedral Heritage Foundation is a community-based charitable organization dedicated to the preservation of the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the fostering of its cultural programs. Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grants are made possible by the Minnesota Legislature from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund created with passage of the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment to the Minnesota Constitution in November 2008. The grants are awarded to support projects of enduring value for the cause of history and historic preservation across the state.
“Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future” is a project of enduring value because it will renovate, restore and develop the archives of the Cathedral of Saint Paul. The project includes bringing the archive’s equipment up to required archival standards with the purchase of a new computer, archival software, supplies and equipment. As work has begun, Cathedral archivists have re-discovered interesting artifacts. A sampling of these will be on display during Cathedral Family & Community Day, Sunday, March 6th from 1-4:30 p.m.
“Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future” is a project of enduring value because it will renovate, restore and develop the archives of the Cathedral of Saint Paul. The project includes bringing the archive’s equipment up to required archival standards with the purchase of a new computer, archival software, supplies and equipment. As work has begun, Cathedral archivists have re-discovered interesting artifacts. A sampling of these will be on display during Cathedral Family & Community Day, Sunday, March 6th from 1-4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Moon Glow Pedestrian Parade
A new event with the Saint Paul Winter Carnival this year is the Moon Glow Pedestrian Parade. Starting at Summit Park (at the very east end of Summit, just past the Cathedral), this illuminated procession will continue to the State Capital. The organizers claim there will be tethered hot air balloons, plus free hot chocolate, and it's a great way to view the beautiful eastern end of Summit.
Friday, January 28, 2011
starting at 5:30pm
Friday, January 28, 2011
starting at 5:30pm
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Welcome, New Resident!
It's great to see so much activity at 1006 Summit! When are you going to join SARPA, Governor Dayton?
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