Albuquerque Downtown Neighborhoods Association

Please note that tonight’s monthly DNA board meeting is more of a “social” meeting and will be at the Slate Street Cafe’s Wine loft at 6:45 (not at Lew Wallace Elementary). Any and all are welcome to join.

Downtown Neighborhoods Association

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Monthly Meeting

November 7, 2018

            The November 2018 meeting of the Downtown Neighborhoods Association was held in the library of Lew Wallace School, pursuant to prior approval.

            Board chair Holly Siebert called the meeting to order at 6:45. Eight board members were present: Jim Clark, Asra Elliott, Melanie Lewis, J.J. Mancini, David McCain, Holly Siebert, Rick Miera and Rowan Wymark. Three board members were absent. Eight other neighbors and guest speakers also attended.

            The agenda was approved. The October 3 minutes were approved. There was no treasurer’s report since the treasurer’s position is vacant. David McCain is recorded as a check signer with the Bank of Albuquerque.

ELECTION OF TREASURER

            Jim Clark had previously volunteered to serve as Treasurer. Rowan Wymark moved and J. J. Mancini seconded a motion to elect Jim to the position. The motion passed unanimously.

TIDY HQ

            J. J. Mancini updated the board on progress with website hosting and the other services provided by Tidy HQ. He would like to have twenty minutes at a future DNA meeting to conduct training for the board.

MEETING DATES

            Holly Siebert proposed that we not meet on January 2, 2019 since several board members may be out of town. After some discussion, there was a consensus to vote at the December 5, 2018 meeting whether to meet on January 2 or January 9 or to not meet at all in January 2019.

            The December meeting is traditionally a short business meeting combined with a holiday party. J. J. Mancini will look into “kid-friendly” venues for the December meeting.

ANNUAL MEETING

            Holly Siebert reminded the board that the Winter 2019 DNA newsletter should announce the March 6 annual meeting. Rick Miera said that the First Bilingual Baptist Church (8^th and Fruit) might be a good location.

COMMITTEES AND ANNOUCEMENTS

            Darrell Dady (468-7364, ddady@bernco.gov) is a Neighborhood Coordination Specialist with Bernalillo County. He discussed the DNA history book, written by Chan Graham. The book is at the printers now. Half the printing costs are covered by the County grant and half by DNA matching funds. Darrel asked about DNA’s experience working with the County. Jim Clark asked if a PDF of the book could be posted on the County website.

            Rowan Wymark said the Winter 2019 newsletter is in process.

            Rick Miera described this year’s Halloween event on Forrester and 8^th streets. He said that approximately 1300 to 1500 books were distributed to children at his house.

            DNA had previously budgeted $1000 to buy candy for residents of 8^th or Forrester who cannot afford candy for 1500 children. This year Rick spent $864.56 for that purpose. David McCain moved and Jim Clark seconded a motion to reimburse Rick for that amount. The motion passed.

            Asra Elliott discussed the nominating process for the 2019 annual meeting. J. J. Mancini said he intends to nominate his wife, Sara Mancini, now that Sara no longer works for the City Office of Neighborhood Coordination.

            Rowan Wymark said she has “Slow Down Albuquerque” signs on her porch so anyone can take one.

            Melanie Lewis discussed the Downtown Community School Collaborative, a joint effort by Lew Wallace, Longfellow and Eugene Field elementary schools. She announced that the group’s next meeting would be held at the Johnny Tapia Center at Wells Park (5^th and Mountain) on Tuesday, November 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The group is looking for partners. The three schools have declining enrollments and APS might consider closing one or more.

            Jeremy Weidner (492-6156, jweidner505@gmail.com) is the minister at the First Bilingual Baptist Church (8^th and Fruit). He attended with a group from the church. Jeremy asked board members what they consider DNA’s accomplishments: responses included the biannual tours and the enactment of the historic overlay zones. There was a discussion that included homelessness, the condition of neighborhood sidewalks and the image of “downtown”, a term that only refers to Central Avenue bars for many people in Albuquerque. Jeremy encouraged people to contact the church if someone in the neighborhood has suffered a fire or other emergency.

            The meeting was adjourned at 8:35.

Respectfully submitted,

David McCain

Secretary

Downtown Neighborhoods Association

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Monthly Meeting

October 3, 2018

            The October 2018 meeting of the Downtown Neighborhoods Association was held in the library of Lew Wallace School, pursuant to prior approval.

            Board chair Holly Siebert called the meeting to order at 6:55. Eight board members were present: Noelle Baroody, Jim Clark, Asra Elliott, Daniel Gutierrez, Melanie Lewis, J.J. Mancini, David McCain and Holly Siebert. Two board members were absent. Five other neighbors and guest speakers also attended.

            The agenda was approved. The September 5 minutes were approved. There was no treasurer’s report since the treasurer’s position is vacant. David McCain is recorded as a check signer with the Bank of Albuquerque.

BOARD ELECTION

            Former board member Rowan Wymark volunteered to rejoin the board. David McCain moved and Jim Clark seconded a motion to nominate Rowan for a term expiring in 2020. The nomination was approved unanimously. David McCain said that after Rowan’s election, the board now has eleven members, eight with terms expiring in March 2020 and three with terms expiring in March 2019.

POLICE REPORT

            APD Sergeant Stuart Vigil (stuartvigil@msn.com) described the Community Resource Officers based at the Alvarado Transit Center. The unit currently has eight officers patrolling an area roughly bounded by Iron, Mountain Road, 8^th Street and the railroad tracks. They are mostly on foot or on bicycles. The vacant APD substation at Central and Rio Grande Blvd may be staffed.

DNA HISTORY BOOK

            Chan Graham described his latest DNA book. He has gotten four printing quotes. He prefers the quote from A Good Sign: 500 books at $8.96 for a total of $4479.99. At the September 2018 DNA meeting, the board approved up to $2500 for printing. Combined with the $2500 County grant, there is a maximum of $5000 available for printing. Chan will work with A Good Sign to produce the book.           There was a discussion of marketing. Chan said that he would not be much involved with promoting and delivering this book.

DNA COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT AND WEBSITE

            Improvements to the DNA website have been discussed for a long time. J.J. Mancini has been researching alternatives. He stressed that he is proposing not just a different host for the website but also a way to integrate DNA’s contact list, membership, dues, communication and event registration. J.J. gave a thorough presentation on Tidy HQ, the company he is proposing. J.J. described several Tidy HQ payment options and proposed that DNA commit to one year at $39 per month, a total of $468. Noelle Baroody moved and Rowan Wymark seconded a motion to approve the expenditure. The motion passed 8-0.

            Rowan Wymark reported on the Community Policing Council.

            The meeting was adjourned at 8:35.

Respectfully submitted,

David McCain

Secretary

You’re Invited To “Coffee With A Cop” Hosted by Southeast Area Command

The Southeast Area Command invites you to join police officers in our community at “Coffee with a Cop” this Thursday, September 27, from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at Loyola’s Restaurant, 4500 Central SE, and share concerns, ask questions and enjoy a cup of joe! To learn more, e-mail: lkuehn@cabq.gov

International District Festival Showcases Diverse Neighborhoods

The Albuquerque International Festival is coming up Saturday, Sept. 29, from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the New Mexico Veteran’s Memorial Park, 1100 Louisiana SE, and you’re invited to join in the fun! This annual event showcases the diversity of the neighborhoods within the International District and invites the public to learn more, too. There will be a petting zoo, face painting, carnival games, local food trucks, and much more. To learn more, e-mail: jgeist@comcast.net

APD Seeks Input on Updating Mission and Vision for the Department

The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) is in the process of updating its mission and vision statements, and wants your input. What would you like to see in your police department? Participate in a focus group or take a short survey at:  http://www.cabq.gov/police/news/abq-police-updating-mission-vision-statements-2018.

Focus group dates, times and locations are below. Please attend only ONE session so that as many people as possible have opportunities to provide input.

• Tuesday, Sept. 25 at 6:00 p.m., Don Newton Taylor Ranch Community Center
• Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 6:00 p.m., Alamosa Community Center
• Saturday, Sept. 29 at 10:00 a.m., North Domingo Baca Multigenerational Center

If you need interpreting services, for questions or to learn more, e-mail: csylvan@cabq.gov

Free Community Training Offers Tips for Recognizing Mental Illness

On Tuesday, September 25 at the Johnny Tapia Wells Park Community Center, the Family and Community Services Department will offer free training for the community on how to spot symptoms of mental illness in those close to you, and how you might be able to help. To RSVP for this very useful training, e-mail: yellowribbonnewmexico@gmail.com

Neighborhood Meetings Around Town

• Palomas Park, Tuesday, Sept. 25 at 6:30 p.m. No location given. E-mail: wmarsh7@comcast.net for more information.
• Historic Old Town Property Owners, Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 3:30 p.m., Old Town Substation. E-mail: historicoldtown@gmail.com for more information.
• Cielito Lindo, Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 6:30 p.m., Mitchell Elementary School Cafeteria. E-mail: khattler@aol.com for more information.
• Heritage Hills, Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 7:00 p.m., Dennis Chávez Elementary School. E-mail: Christy_burton@hotmail.com for more information.
• International District Healthy Communities Coalition, Thursday, Sept. 27 at 9:00, Highland Baptist Church. E-mail: ecardiel@bernco.gov for more information.
• District 6 Coalition, Thursday, Sept. 27 at 6:00 p.m., Christ United Methodist Church. E-mail: ginafornm@gmail.com for more information.
• Nob Hill Annual Meeting, Thursday, Sept. 27 at 6:30 p.m., Monte Vista Christian Church. E-mail: ross@unm.edu for more information.
• District 8 Coalition, Thursday, Sept. 27 at 7:00 p.m., Holiday Park Community Center. E-mail: dhc@zianet.com for more information.
• Vineyard Estates, Thursday, Sept. 27 at 7:00 p.m., North Domingo Baca Multigenerational Center. E-mail: djesmeek@comcast.net for more information.

Syringe Pick-Up Safety Tips and Resources for your Neighborhood

Many neighborhood groups have expressed interest in cleaning up their local parks, particularly picking up discarded syringes and needles that seem to be a problem everywhere. But it’s important to do it safely. Learn more about safe needle disposal at: http://www.cabq.gov/environmentalhealth/sharps-disposal

TEDxABQ Highlighting Innovation in our City

TEDxABQ is coming to our city Friday, Sept. 28 and Saturday, Sept. 29 at the National Hispanic Cultural Center! This non-profit organization has brought together New Mexico innovators who inspire with their big ideas! Imagine Albuquerque will present six speakers on civic innovation on Friday, and The Main Event on Saturday features 13 homegrown ideas from artists, scientists, activists and others. To learn more about TEDxABQ, visit: https://tedxabq.com/

New Mexico Steam Locomotive and Railroad Historical Society Hosting Free Train Event This Saturday

The Santa Fe #2926, one of the largest steam locomotives ever built, will be on display Saturday, September 29, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., at 1833 8^th St. NW. The community is invited to come out and see this beautiful train restored to its former operating glory, enjoy free hot dogs and soda, and check out some cool model trains. Visit: www.2926.com to learn more.

Want to Learn about Bees and Blooms While Drinking a Brew?

Join in the fun with the September Science Café, hosted by the ABQ BioPark Conservation Committee, this Thursday, Sept. 27 at 7:00 p.m. at High and Dry Brewing, and get the scoop on pollinating flowers, bumblebees and enjoy some locally brewed beer as well. To learn more about this fun and FREE event, visit: https://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark/events/september-science-cafe-bees-blooms-and-brews

Family Outreach Empowerment Groups Offer Support for Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers

Did you know that MCH Family Outreach offers free family empowerment group events every 3^rd Tuesday of the month? From 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Explora Children’s Museum, 1701 Mountain Rd. NW, there is food, childcare, and guest speakers who share information on benefits, SNAP, Medicaid, legal issues, housing, schooling, familyadvocacy, and much more. To learn more about this terrific community resource, visit: www.mch.org or call 505-255-8740.

Won’t You Be My Neighbor on National Good Neighbor Day?

Friday, September 28 is National Good Neighbor Day! Why not challenge yourself to do something nice for a neighbor, like take their trash bins to and from the curb, help them pull weeds, or even just introduce yourself to a new neighbor! Share your stories or post pictures of you being a Good Neighbor on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or other social media with the hashtags #goodneighborabq, #goodneighborday and #abqneighborhoods and be part of this nationwide community outreach initiative!

Grow Neighborhood Involvement with an Elevator Pitch?

One great way to show passion for your neighborhood and grow involvement is talking about your neighborhood association, and the ONC offers resources on how to develop an “elevator pitch” you can use when talking to people in your neighborhood. You can use this elevator pitch when you’re out walking your dog, when you see people in your area doing yardwork, or at any local community event. To learn how to develop an elevator pitch for your neighborhood, visit: http://www.cabq.gov/office-of-neighborhood-coordination/news/growing-neighborhood-involvement-with-an-elevator-pitch

The Office of Neighborhood Coordination Staff

Phone: 505-768-3334

Email: onc@cabq.gov

Website: www.cabq.gov/neighborhoods

Bernalillo County Commissioner Steven Michael Quezada invites everyone to the Annual Route 66 West Fest Community Event powered by Think Big, which is scheduled for Saturday, September 22^nd at the Alamosa Community Center from 10:00am to 4:00pm.   

Bernalillo County to Honor Unclaimed and Indigent Residents with
Memorial Burial Ceremony

Bernalillo County – The county, in conjunction with Daniels Family Funeral Services, will honor Bernalillo County unclaimed and indigent residents with a public memorial burial ceremony later this month.

To find out if a deceased person is on the unclaimed/indigent list, go to http://www.bernco.gov/Unclaimed_Indigent_Cremation_Program and click on this year’s ceremony under ‘Memorial Lists’ or click on the Search Unclaimed Decedents tab.

To obtain the cremains of one of the deceased persons in the program, call (505) 468-7777 by 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 21, 2018 for information and to make arrangements. There is a fee to cover the county’s cost of cremation.

The Bernalillo County General Services Division administers the Unclaimed/Indigent Cremation Program for deceased persons who have passed away within the geographical boundaries of Bernalillo County.

The county contracts with Daniels Family Funeral Services to cremate and store the cremains of unclaimed/indigent persons for two years and then the cremains are made available for burial.

The community memorial service will be held on Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018, 8:30 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery, 700 Yale SE. All are welcome to attend.

It is the mission of the Bernalillo County General Services Division to provide a deserved, lawful, proper and dignified manner of disposition for those decedent residents who are indigent or go unclaimed upon death, and to handle every case accurately and lawfully with the utmost attention. Bernalillo County respects each individual in the community and will treat all with maximum regard and dignity.

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Two-Day Career Fair Offers Excellent Job-Hunting Resources for the Community

Do you know someone who is seeking a job and could use a little help in getting hired? This two-day Career Event is open to the public and offers a wealth of career resources in both English and Spanish! Tuesday, September 11 will offer 20-minute workshops on interview success and tips to enhance your job application, and there will be opportunities to get a complimentary haircut! Friday, September 14 offers real-life opportunities to meet potential employers, apply for jobs, and have face-to-face interviews! To register for this free event, e-mail: ecodeveventRSVP@bernco.gov or in person at the South Valley Multipurpose Community Center, 2008 Larrazolo SW. For more general information, visit:www.bernco.gov/jobfair

Carousel at BioPark Closed Today for Maintenance

The carousel at the ABQ BioPark is closed today, Monday, September 10, for regular maintenance. If you were planning a jaunt over there, make a note that the carousel should be open again tomorrow!

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District 2 Newsletter – Click Here

I would like to invite you, your family and friends to our Coffee with a Cop Event.

Date:  October 3, 2018

Time:  12:00 – 2:00 PM

Location:  Albuquerque Museum – 2000 Mountain Rd NW

Please come meet your Valley Area Command officers to express concerns, ask questions or just chat and share your appreciation.

Thank you.

Laura J. Trujillo

Crime Prevention Specialist

Valley Area Command

505-761-8805

ljtrujillo@cabq.gov