COMMUNITY FIXTURES

MEET

Anna Tsantir was an artist with a day job, navigating less-than-ideal working conditions when she and her co-founder decided to start a business on the principles of believing in people and the planet. Two Bettys Green Cleaning Co. (3101 Minnehaha Ave.) was born as a space where independent artists could work with dignity, valuing their clients while being valued themselves. They became experts in green cleaning, navigating the challenges of “greenwashing,” and educating others on how they too can clean green, reducing the toxic chemicals that end up in our waterways and environment. “It’s not just about cleaning homes; it’s about making a positive impact on the planet,” she stated. Now in its 19th year, the biggest challenge Two Bettys faced was navigating COVID-19 and laying off 140 people. “It took us five years to fully recover, but we did it,” said Tsantir. “Today, we’re stronger, more diverse, and more efficient, with a 90% staff retention rate.” They focus on residential cleaning and some smaller commercial clients. Women undergoing cancer treatments get free cleaning services. “We’re located near Lake Street and Minnehaha Avenue, an area full of kind people, diverse restaurants, unique shops, and a strong sense of community. It’s a place where people stand up for each other, and that’s something I’m really proud to be a part of.” Tsantir serves as president of the Longfellow Business Association.

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Guy Lender and Dan Swenson have owned Alexander’s Import Auto Repair (2904 E 35th St.) together for 30 years. Lender’s son, William Lender joined them 15 years ago. The three are at the shop on a daily basis and are dedicated to making Alexander’s a good business to work at and to visit. They have been longtime LBA members, valuing how it connects them to the good people in the community. They’ve grown and stayed successful.

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Lori Reese started as union carpenter apprentice after college for a cool summer job, and found that she loved the physical and mental challenge – and the tools. She started Wonderwoman Construction & Electrical (3715 Minnehaha Ave S) in 1987, and incorporated in 2002. She believes that dollars spent locally stay local, and then you’re not supporting billionaries who don’t care about you. Reese choose to locate her business in Longfellow just 10 minutes from her Prospect Park home, and co-owns the building they are in as well as their nearby warehouse. Computers and cell phones have changed how they do business over the years, and they’re always refining their work as they see more people come back into the trades. She loves laughing with her wife, and hanging with their kids and grandkids. She finds time to workout daily, listen to music as much as possible, play with their dogs and cats, and hang out at their cabin as often as she can. She volunteers as the LBA treasurer.