The Tenney-Lapham Corporation (TLC) was set up by the Tenney-Lapham Neighborhood Association (TLNA) in 1979 to act as a tax-exempt 501-c-3 entity to accept grant moneys from the city and other organizations, as well as tax-deductible donations from individuals, for neighborhood improvement projects. TLC has its own board of directors, appointed by the TLNA board. Most recently, TLC has undertaken to replace the aging neighborhood welcome sign, using matching grants from TLNA and the city’s Community Enhancement Program (CEP).
TLC’s other ongoing responsibilities include maintenance of the banners and bike racks in the East Johnson business district. These improvements, along with the old-fashioned street lamps, were installed in 1997 with money from the city’s Community Development Block Grant program. The maintenance costs are shared equally by TLNA and the East Johnson Business Association (EJBA). No city money is involved. (The city takes care of the street lamps.)
Since their installation, we have had two bike rakes stolen and one run over by a delivery truck. The latter one was restored by the infringing company. One of the stolen bike racks (up-rooted with chains and a truck, apparently, in front of the Caribou Bar) was found nearby and moved to a more high-use location. The second (in front of Zimmerman’s Plumbing—now Artists’ Supply) disappeared and was not reported missing until it was too late to track down.
The banners have not faired any better or worse. They have weathered very well during their five-year warranty, but two have been stolen: one in May 1999, the other in December 2002. Two of the other banners recently had their bottom sleeve seams unravel. The damaged banners were repaired, and the missing banners have been replaced.
This update article is partly intended to remind everybody in the neighborhood that these are extra amenities which the neighborhood has worked hard to plan and pay for. When they get damaged or stolen, we’re the ones who pay for them, not the city, or anyone else. If you see any problems with the banners, bike racks, or welcome sign, please report it to TLC by calling Rob Latousek (255-6769).
Thanks for helping to take care
of our neighborhood.
-Rob Latousek
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Summer 2003 Table of Contents