Livestream Concert Series, Keep Music Live, Produced at Crooners Supper Club for At-home Audiences Begins April 3

April 2 update (via a MinnPost article):

Crooners, which until yesterday morning planned to launch a monthlong streaming concert series, “Keep Music Alive,” this Friday, has put that on hold. After Gov. Tim Walz announced his stay-at-home order, which took effect Saturday, musicians started contacting Crooners saying they wanted to postpone.

Crooners and its partners – the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Jazz88 and Jazz Central Studios –agreed to delay the shows. Meanwhile, artists will be paid. Jazz Fest ED Steve Heckler said in a statement, “What we have decided to do is pay all of the artists who agreed to be in the series and who were announced last week, and re-book them for the series when we feel safe to do so.” Payment will be made from a start-up fund that now exceeds over $25,000.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 

Via a March 26 Press Release:

Livestream Concert Series, Keep Music Live, produced at Crooners Supper Club for at-home audiences begins April 3. Twin Cities Jazz Fest, Jazz88 and Jazz Central Studios Partnering with Crooners to support music community sidelined by COVID-19

Crooners Supper Club - in partnership with the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Jazz88 and Jazz Central Studios - is launching a new livestream concert series Keep Music Live, with the near-term goal of giving Twin Cities musicians impacted by COVID-19 policies an opportunity to perform and earn desperately needed income. The series launches on April 3, and, as of April 8, will offer five distinct concerts a week, livestreamed and broadcast for at-home audiences only, Wednesday to Sunday at 7pm (with some variations). SEE PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE BELOW.

A fund administered by the non-profit Twin Cities Jazz Festival will underwrite the free concerts with the help of viewers willing to contribute. Spearheaded by a group of local music supporters led by Mike and Donna Wolsted, the Keep Music Live fund is beginning with a start-up amount of $25,000, to which livestream audiences can contribute in order to make the fund self-sustaining over time.  All artists performing in the series will receive market-rate payments. Excess funds (if any) will go into a trust administered by the Twin Cities Jazz Festival for the support of local musicians in dire need of financial help.  The initiative’s overarching goal is to provide a mechanism during the current period of closures to keep audiences and artists connected, and to provide an income source to numerous top-tier Twin Cities musicians who find themselves completely sidelined by the Coronavirus pandemic.  Donations will be taken on-line at www.twincitiesjazzfestival.com in a fund earmarked for this initiative.

“We put out a call for support to our patrons to get this started, and the response has been amazing,” said Twin Cities Jazz Festival executive director Steve Heckler.  “We are mobilizing and uniting a Twin Cities music scene deeply concerned about the immediate and long-term impact on our local musicians.”

Crooners Supper Club is providing its staff and facilities at no cost to the effort and will derive no income from the livestream performances, as they will be performed without an audience. “We are asking all concert participants to follow our health protocols,” says Crooners owner Mary M. Tjosvold, who owns Mary T. Inc., a health care line of businesses. “Staff and musicians will be screened when they arrive, and we will observe social distancing on stage and off when the shows are produced.”

Jazz88 (KBEM 88.5 FM) is serving as a primary sponsor for Keep Music Live and will broadcast on the radio and livestream most of the concerts on the schedule and will archive all the concerts on the schedule. The shows will also be available for on-demand viewing on a later date, proceeds of which will be directed to the artists involved, with a smaller portion earmarked for the Keep Music Live Trust. 

The concerts will be broadcast and livestreamed at no cost to viewers, After the April 3 launch, the shows will air five nights a week starting Wednesday April 8. The musicians and shows being programmed for Keep Music Live come from Crooners expansive palette of musical styles. “The artists we are programming are among our favorites at the club,” says Crooners music director Andrew Walesch. “They perform with us regularly, are familiar with our operation, and are beloved in town. As we move forward, we are going to add a few national names who have played the club, as long as they can safely make it here. As with our regular programming, we thrive on a mix of styles, sensibilities and generations. That diversity is what we’re striving for with Keep Music Live.”

Leveraging Crooners’ quintessentially Minnesota setting, the shows will be broadcast from the Dunsmore Jazz Room stage, framed by appealing views beyond the stage of the wooded shores of Moore Lake. The 60 to 80-minute-long programs will often include interviews with artists, as well as Q&A’s with artists, bands and cultural leaders in the Twin Cities. Ian Walesch is the series producer.

The Keep Music Live series helps kick off Minnesota Music Month, which is being observed by numerous organizations including The Current which was forced to postpone this year’s Minnesota Music Summit but is actively promoting local bands throughout the month.

photo credit Crooners

PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE*

WEEK 1

Fri Apr 3, at 7pm - "Sibling Revelry" with Jennifer Grimm and Reed Grimm featuring Joe Cruz

Fri Apr 3, at 8:30pm - “Friday Night Jazz” with The Sightless Quartet featuring Cody Steinmann, Graydon Peterson, Joe Strachan and Ben Ehrlich

Sat Apr 4, at 7pm - "Stream Songs" with Maud Hixson and Rick Carlson

Sun Apr 5, at 7pm - "Get Happy!" The Harold Arlen Songbook with a Wizard of Oz Sing-Along with Prudence Johnson and Dan Chouinard

WEEK 2

Wed Apr 8, at 7pm - Pat Donohue and Friends From Along the Way

Thur Apr 9, at 7pm - "Tableaux: Works of Ravel, Debussy and More Get Jazzed" with Laura Caviani, David Milne, Chris Bates and Dave Schmalenberger

Fri Apr 10, at 7pm - "Arne Sings Andy" Arne Fogel interprets the Andy Williams Songbook

Fri Apr 10, at 8:30pm – “Friday Night Jazz” with Adam Harder Nussbaum Quartet, with Adam Nussbaum, Nelson Devereaux, Ted Godbout and Ted Olsen

Sat Apr 11, at 7pm -  “Moonshadow: Michael Monroe Sings Cat Stevens”

Sun Apr 12, at 7pm - “Easter Sunday with Robert Robinson” featuring Sam Reeves  

WEEK 3

Wed Apr 15, at 7pm – “An Evening of Show Tunes” with Tyler Michaels King, Sasha Andreev, Aimee K. Bryant, Evan Tyler Wilson and Suzie Juul with Louis Berg-Arnold on piano

Thur Apr 16, at 7pm - Miss Myra and the Moonshiners

Fri Apr 17 at 7pm – “Mick Sterling Presents an Acoustic Night of Billy Joel”

Fri Apr 17, at 8:30pm – “Friday Night Jazz” with Paul Harper's Shrewd Quartet featuring Paul Harper, Kevin Daley, Charlie Riddle and Dean White

Sat Apr 18, at 7pm - "I Am Women, Hear Me Roar" with Lori Dokken, Patty Peterson, Debbie Duncan, Judi Vinar and Rachel Holder

Sun Apr 19, at 7pm - An exciting headliner to be announced soon 

WEEK 4

Wed Apr 22, at 7pm - "The Music of Patsy Cline" with Joyann Parker

Thur Apr 23, at 7pm - To be announced

Fri Apr 24, at 7pm - The Debbie Duncan Quartet
Fri Apr 24, at 8:30pm – “Friday Night Jazz” with the Steve Kenny Quartet featuring Steve Kenny, Levi Schwartzberg, Ted Olson and Miguel Hurtado

Sat Apr 25, at 7pm – “Songs of Spring” with Andrew Walesch featuring Dave Karr and Special Guests

Sun Apr 26, at 7pm -- To be announced

*Schedule is subject to change

The five-year old Crooners Supper Club is located just north of the Minneapolis border, on Central Avenue (6161 Highway 65) in Fridley. With its definitive no-side-conversations listening policy and retro supper club ambiance, Crooners programs an eclectic mix of jazz, R&B, gospel, soul, funk, folk, roots-rock and country.  In addition to its three distinct concert stages – The MainStage, The Dunsmore Jazz Room and the Lakeside Café (in warmer months) - Crooners recently added a piano lounge in its bar area, Maggie’s, with vest-pocket stage for informal late-night lounge shows. Many shows postponed since the State-mandated shut-down of public assembly businesses on March 17 have been temporarily rescheduled for May. To watch, or for more info visit www.croonersmn.com, www.facebook.com/croonersmn, or call 763-760-0062.

Riverfront Parkway and Road Closures Begin March 27 to Help Trail Users Maintain Social Distancing

Closures on West River Parkway and Main Street SE in effect March 27-April 10

Following Gov. Walz’ Emergency Executive Order 20-20 Directing Minnesotans to Stay at Home, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) President Jono Cowgill and District 1 Commissioner Chris Meyer announced today that sections of West River Parkway and Main Street SE will close to allow more space for trail users to follow social distancing practices to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The riverfront parkway closures will begin by 5 pm Friday, March 27 and remain in place until the end of the Emergency Executive Order on Friday, April 10, 2020 at 5 pm. MPRB Commissioners are working with staff to consider additional parkway closures in the Minneapolis park system during this time.

“I am thrilled we’re able to open road and parkway segments next to our busy central riverfront park, and I look forward to announcing additional parkway closures soon,” explained Jono Cowgill, President of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. “This has been a collaborative effort with the City of Minneapolis in response to the people we serve and their need for social distancing within parks and public spaces.”

Once the closures go into effect:

• Parkway roads will be dedicated to two-way pedestrian traffic.
• Walking paths will be dedicated to two-way pedestrian traffic.
• Bike paths will remain bike paths in their current direction, if applicable.

West River Parkway

West River Parkway will close between Plymouth Avenue N and 11th Avenue S. One lane will remain open to provide access to the Stone Arch Bridge Parking Lot and parking serving 200 2nd St. S. Modifications may occur during the closure.

Map of West River Parkway Closure [PDF]

Main Street SE

Main Street SE will fully close between Hennepin Avenue and 3rd Avenue SE. Merriam Street will also be closed. The eastbound lane of Main Street will close between 3rd and 6th Avenues SE. The southbound lane of 6th Avenue SE will also close between Main Street SE and the Stone Arch Bridge. Modifications may occur during the closure.

Map of Main Street SE Closure [PDF]

Exceptions and Conditions

• Emergency vehicles will be allowed on closed sections of parkways and streets at all times.
• Service, delivery and sanitation vehicles will be allowed on closed sections of parkways and streets as part of their regular operations. Vehicle drivers will be required to move and replace barricades.
• Access to residential buildings and residential parking facilities on closed sections of parkways and streets will be maintained.
• Intermittent construction vehicle access related to the Water Works project will be allowed. Water Works is under construction near Stone Arch Bridge on West River Parkway.

Social Distancing

The Minnesota Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control offer the following guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19:

• Do not use parks if you feel sick or have symptoms, including fever, body aches, coughing, nasal congestion, runny nose and sore throat.
• Cover your cough with your elbow, don’t cough into your hands.
• Wash your hands immediately before and after visiting a park or trail.
• Maintain at least six feet of distance between you and other people that are not a part of your household.

Stay Updated

Visit minneapolisparks.org/coronavirus for parkway closure updates and other MPRB FAQs, including facility closings and activity cancellations. Receive timely email updates by visiting minneapolisparks.org/subscribe, entering your email and selecting the “COVID-19” topic in the “News Updates” section.

Northern Lights.mn Announces Spring Howl: a Virtual Art Experience

Via a March 26 e-announcment from Northern Lights.mn:

Artists Hawona Sullivan Janzen and Kathy McTavish are hard at work preparing for this year's virtual Spring Howl.

Buy your ticket today to experience for an alone / together reading and listening experience in times of sudden change.

How it works: 

• Spring Howl: a virtual art experience will be available to view and hear online from April 4 - 30th from any internet-connected device at any time of day. 
• Tickets are now on sale through April 23rd.   
• Ticket holders will receive a link to access the project within 3-5 days of ticket purchase. 
• The project includes an ever-changing and a static experience

We need a good Howl now more than ever.  Join us online in the month of April to witness this work, and discover something about yourself and our world through verse. 

Spring Howl: a virtual art experience
Available online April 4 - 30 
Last call for tickets on April 23 

FINNOVATION Lab Continues “Force For Good” Mission: Open Applications for Cohort 3 Social Impact Entrepreneurs

Via a March 25 Press Release:

FINNOVATION LAB CONTINUES “FORCE FOR GOOD” MISSION, ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THIRD COHORT OF SOCIAL IMPACT ENTREPRENEURS

Nine individuals will be supported by a $50,000 stipend, workspace, and tailored curriculum to focus on turning their bold ideas into impact businesses

FINNOVATION Lab, the champion of changemakers who believe in solving systemic social problems through the power of business, announced a third cohort of the FINNOVATION Fellowship Program, with applications being accepted April 1-May 15. The goal of the Fellowship Program is to empower social impact leaders in Minnesota and beyond. The nine-month program provides early-stage social entrepreneurs with a $50,000 living stipend, $3,000 health care stipend, dedicated workspace, tailored curriculum, and access to an ecosystem of advisors and mentors.

FINNOVATION Lab is seeking individuals with a tie to Minnesota who have bold ideas for sustainable, systems-level change. The Fellowship Program supports entrepreneurs with a passion for generating lasting social impact through innovative business models, including traditional corporations, benefit corporations, or non-profit enterprises. All areas of impact are welcomed including education, health, environment, hunger, poverty-alleviation, or any field that creates positive change across the region. Applicants should have identified and have a deep understanding of a social or environmental issue they want to solve and be committed to developing an idea for how to tackle the issue through entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs who are already operating their businesses are not a good fit for this program.

For both its first and second cohorts, the Fellowship Program attracted a highly competitive pool of applicants. Individuals who applied for the second cohort, which wraps programming this summer, were diverse across race, gender, and education: 57% identified as people of color, 63% female or non-binary, 18% LGBTQ+, and 38% as the first in their family to attend college. Similar to the second cohort, the pool of applicants for this group will be narrowed down to nine fellows.

“With each new batch of applicants, it gets harder to select a final group of fellows,” said Connie Rutledge, CEO at FINNOVATION Lab. “We’ve seen a lot of incredible ideas to address social problems through unconventional methods, and we’re excited to have the opportunity to foster growth for the leaders behind those ideas."

Curriculum is focused on leadership development, business planning and modeling, and systems-level analysis for social change using design thinking methodology. The Fellowship Program is often the first time participants can focus their energy on diving deeper into exploring the problem and a potential solution — learning, experimenting, and turning their idea into a reality. Alumni of the Fellowship Program have amassed some impressive achievements, including winning the Impact Venture division of the MN Cup, expanding a flagship conference, securing corporate customers, and managing an accelerator program in Greater Minnesota.

“Seeing our fellows turn their innovative ideas into fully operating and impactful businesses is truly inspirational,” said Jacquie Berglund, Founder of FINNOVATION Lab. “With each new cohort of fellows, we are more energized to continue on with our mission of being a force for good.”

Outside of the Fellowship Program, FINNOVATION Lab announced two national partnerships in October 2019 —SKU (Impact SKU) and SEED SPOT — allowing the organization to support purpose-driven businesses at various stages of growth.

The Fellowship Program, which will run mid-September 2020 through mid-June 2021 for this third cohort, is made possible through generous support from the Bush Foundation, known for its commitment to innovation and creative problem solving. Dedicated workspace and business resources are available to fellows in the FINNOVATION Lab space within the FINNEGANS House at 817 5th Ave S. Minneapolis 55404.

More details about FINNOVATION Lab and the Fellowship Program, including application information and eligibility requirements, is available at Finn-Lab.com.

About FINNOVATION Lab

FINNOVATION Lab is an inclusive workspace and community inspiring social change, growth, innovation, and experimentation. From educational programs to unique events, FINN Lab empowers social entrepreneurs to make a positive change in the world through the power of business. For more information, visit Finn-Lab.com.

The Mill City Times Interview: Captain Casidy Anderson, Community Risk Reduction Officer at Minneapolis Fire Department

Article by Becky Fillinger

Emergency response teams can’t work from home. A global pandemic doesn’t keep fires from starting and dedicated municipal workers must respond. Last week’s Central Avenue fire required Minneapolis Fire Department firefighters to work long hours to extinguish the fire. Mayor Jacob Frey calls the MFD "indispensable" in tragedies we see every week and during extraordinary circumstances, like the coronavirus outbreak.

One of the MFD’s dedicated staff is Casidy Anderson, Staff Captain and Community Risk Reduction Officer. We spoke to Captain Anderson about her role in the Minneapolis Fire Department.

Left to right - FMO (driver) Aaron Banks, Captain Sean Churchill-Weekes, Firefighter Milagros Ramos, and Captain Anderson

MCT:  What do your day to day activities consist of?

CA:  The job title “Community Risk Reduction Officer” started replacing “Fire Safety and Prevention Educator” in many fire departments about 15 years ago. The reason for this is because firefighters typically respond to more than just fires – in fact, the number of fires that we respond to has gone down significantly over the years. In addition to fires, firefighters respond to medical calls, hazardous material spills, vehicle accidents, specialized rescues, emergencies in the water (such as lakes and rivers), and much more! For that reason, the typical “fire educator” now educates the public not only on fire safety and fire prevention, but also other topics such as emergency preparedness, slip and fall prevention, evacuation planning, and sometimes basic medical-skill training such as first-aid and CPR. We teach “risk reduction” skills to reduce injury and loss from many types of accidents and disasters.

Much of my job from day to day requires interfacing with the public: classroom visits teaching kids about fire safety and fire prevention, fire station tours for groups of all ages, speaking events and businesses, tabling with information at community events, talking to tenants in multi-unit high-rises, and more.

The umbrella of the job has widened significantly over the years. Not long before I took this position, the job was strictly about teaching young children about fire safety and fire prevention. Fast forward to today - our outreach includes children, adults, businesses, faith communities and more!

With COVID-19, I am now working entirely remotely, trying to reach out to people via newsletter, email, sharing best practices from local and far away communities, dropping activity books off at places for kids and families to access, and other tasks that minimize interacting face-to-face with the public.

I’ve started the process of seeing how firefighters in the stations can read a story book to children via video – either in real time or pre-recorded. I’ll let the Mill City Times know in advance of the storybook scheduling. COVID-19 is definitely challenging us to think outside the box and be creative and innovative with our outreach!

MCT:  Regarding the COVID-19 pandemic – any advice or tips you’d like to offer readers?

CA:  We’ve all heard the basic things many times – the recommendations by the CDC are to stay home as much as possible, wash hands frequently and maintain social-distancing. The CDC and health departments are the experts on this subject, so turn to them for the best information!

I am not shifting over to COVID-19 activities exclusively. I’m still focusing on fire prevention and other risk-reduction outreach; however, I will include updated tips to stay healthy during COVID-19 as part of that outreach. I’ll be taking information from the CDC and Minnesota health departments in that messaging.

That being said, a few people had contacted me wondering what they as a community could do to help – and it’s such a catch-22 because we all want to help, and yet the directive to “stay home” makes it difficult! So, I started looking at what other communities are doing – particularly on the east and west coasts where the virus is a bigger problem. Here is one of the articles I found when researching how neighbors, friends, and families can help each other out during this time. To help vulnerable neighbors, someone suggested having a shared spreadsheet where neighbors/friends/etc. could log what some basic needs are, and then people could take on one of those items and sign up to help. For example, let’s say my elderly neighbor needs house supplies. I could list that need on the spreadsheet, and someone could adopt that need and when they are at the store, pick up a few items for that neighbor, and drop it at their front door. Maybe another neighbor has a vulnerable immune system or an underlying medical issue and cannot leave their home. It’s a start at looking out for one another.

Captain Anderson leading a fire station tour with a group of Head Start families in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood.MCT:  Do you target any special groups or demographics for risk reduction?

CA:  Yes. I am deliberate about reaching out to our immigrant population, people with disabilities, and people in transition - such as those moving from shelters to independent living. For example, imagine living in a country where you’ve never used a modern stove or oven, and moving here where everything is different, including how you cook! Unattended cooking (stepping away from the stovetop when it’s on) is the #1 cause of home fires. Teaching people how to cook safely prevents a lot of fires! Or imagine being deaf or hard-of-hearing and living in a home that does not have appropriate smoke-alarms with strobe lights or alerting devices to wake you when you’re asleep. It’s important that we reach out to people who are at higher risk for fires, and I’m thoughtful about that.

MCT:  Are there any blind spots in the city’s risk focus that warrant additional attention or modification?

CA:  That is something I try to take time to analyze year to year. In general, the top causes of fires and fire-related injury and death have remained consistent for decades (both nationally and locally): #1 cause of fires are unattended cooking – which is 100% preventable by just being more careful in the kitchen. The #1 cause of fire-related death is falling asleep with a cigarette (although in the last few years unsafe heating, such as space heaters left on too long or too close to something, have vied for that #1 spot). That being said, it’s important to look at the data from year to year to see if there are any trends happening that we should focus on to keep people safe.

MCT:  Who is accountable for results in your work?

CA:  It’s a team effort! Although we have a small team of people who are assigned to “community risk reduction” as their primary job – myself and my colleague David Carson, who was just added to this position earlier this year (prior to that it was just me) – we rely on the fire station personnel to help with community events, station tours, and even school visits. The MN State Fire Marshal Office leads the charge to connect all the fire department community risk reduction specialists in the State of Minnesota. We have regular meetings and share ideas and resources.

But people in risk-reduction collaborate across jurisdictional boundaries as well. I’m part of several teams of people whose primary job is prevention and risk reduction. We all collaborate on some level to help and support each other: Minneapolis Police, Health, Regulatory Services, Emergency Management; as well as networks of people from other cities and states.

MCT:  How do you work with neighborhood associations?

CA:  I rely a lot on partnerships with MPD Crime Prevention Specialists to connect with neighborhood associations. They send out fire-related safety information for me as needed. I’m also available to speak at neighborhood association meetings, and have been invited to do that, particularly when there is a pressing fire-related concern in the neighborhood. Minneapolis Communications handles most notices to the neighborhood associations.

MCT:  Do you hold Zoom meetings (or other free videoconferencing) with citizens?

CA:  I have not held Zoom meetings as part of this job. However, with COVID-19 I have attended more Zoom meetings in the last two weeks than I have in my entire 20-year career with MFD! I anticipate holding Zoom meetings as part of my outreach if the directive to social-distance and stay at home continues for a while.

MCT:  Is your department more concerned with risk prevention or mitigation?

CA:  MFD prioritizes both prevention and mitigation. Prevention is incredibly important, because most fires can be prevented by teaching people about the causes of fires, and safer habits that lead to less fires. Although I stated that the #1 cause of fires is unattended cooking, to be specific, the #1 cause is PEOPLE. People cooking carelessly. People leaving the candle burning when they leave the house. People discarding a cigarette, still hot, into a pile of dry brush. If we can teach people to have safer habits, we will reduce fires drastically and we have seen the number of fires drop with these efforts. But mitigation is incredibly important too! The MFD is prepared to respond to every fire, medical, and hazardous emergency that we are called to. We are the biggest fire department in the State of Minnesota, serving the largest population, and our response times are incredibly fast. We want the public to have a toolbox of prevention knowledge and empower them to be safe at home and at work, but when emergencies happen, know that MFD will be there quickly!

MCT:  Thank you Captain Anderson for your time and commitment!

CA:  Thank you for sharing our story. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 

About Becky Fillinger

I’ve been a resident of the Mill District only since July 2019, but have visited the Guthrie, the Farmers Market, restaurants and friends in the area for many years prior to making the leap to Minneapolis. I’ve lived in many places (and climates) in the US and can testify that our cultural events, bicycle and hiking trails, parks and green spaces, museums, diverse neighborhoods and wonderful restaurants put Minnesota and Minneapolis high on my best places list. I’m a member of the Mill City Singers and look forward to our choir practices and performances.

One of my main interests is community - a very broad concept. For me it means bringing people together with common interests to form meaningful relationships. I look forward to reporting on businesses and individuals in our neighborhoods. Feel free to drop me an email at becky_fillinger@hotmail.com with your thoughts and ideas for stories. 

Mpls DID Deploys Hand Washing Stations Throughout Downtown

Via a March 24 Press Release from the Minneapolis Downtown Council:

The Mpls Downtown Improvement District today announced the deployment of hand washing stations throughout the downtown core.

At a time where hand cleanliness is a crucial necessity for the public’s overall health, this initiative placed 10 hand sanitizing stations throughout downtown. The dual-sink units will include water, soap and paper towels.

Locations were placed along Hennepin/1st Avenues, Nicollet, and between 4th and 5th Streets, and locations are subject to change.

“This is a critical time for our community to have accessible handwashing locations,” said Steve Cramer, President & CEO of the Mpls Downtown Improvement District. “The DID identified portable handwashing stations as an important resource during these evolving times. The DID remains committed to doing our part to best support our downtown community as we navigate together.”

“Having publicly-accessible handwashing stations is a policy priority expressed by the Mpls City Council’s resolution during declared emergencies,” said Ben Shardlow, Director of Urban Design for the Mpls Downtown Improvement District. “This initiative is a way we can help provide service to the downtown community.”

The below map shows the locations of the handwashing stations.

About the Mpls Downtown Improvement District

The Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) is a business funded non-profit focused on creating a more vibrant downtown. DID leads and collaborates on programs that make downtown safer, cleaner and greener. DID convenes people across sectors and jurisdictions to work on issues of mutual interest; develop innovative solutions to complex public space challenges/opportunities including strategic activation and seek continuous improvement of ongoing programs including the ambassadors. For more information, visit www.mplsdid.com.

Hennepin County Sheriff's Office Offers Tips on Emotional Well-Being During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Hennepin County Sheriff's Office Offers Tips on Emotional Well-Being During the COVID-19 Outbreak

March 24, 2020 (Minneapolis) – Public health events such as infectious disease outbreaks like COVID-19 can cause emotional distress and anxiety. Feeling anxious, confused, overwhelmed, or powerless is common during an infectious disease outbreak, especially in the face of a virus with which the general public may be unfamiliar. As part of our agency’s strategy to react to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sheriff Hutchinson directed the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office’s TriWellness unit to develop resources to help our employees deal with the stress of this challenging time. He then asked that these resources be shared with the public.   “The COVID-19 outbreak has disrupted life for everyone and caused enormous stress and anxiety,” said Sheriff David P. Hutchinson. “Studies have shown that stress and anxiety can have many negative effects on a person’s overall health, which is why I created the TriWellness unit to help my employees stay mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy. At a time like this, everyone deserves a little help coping with stress, which is why we are sharing these resources with you today.” TriWellness’ Tips for Emotional Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in. Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include: Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones Changes in sleep or eating patterns Difficulty sleeping or concentrating Worsening of chronic health problems Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs Irritability Increased depressive symptoms Increased anxiety symptoms Coping Tips People that are feeling emotional distress related to COVID-19 can take actions to help support themselves and others. Set a limit on media consumption, including social media, local, or national news. Stay active. Make sure to get enough sleep and rest. Stretch, exercise, and make time to unwind. Stay hydrated and avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol. Eat healthy foods when possible. Connect with loved ones and others who may be experiencing stress about the outbreak. Talk about your feelings and enjoy conversation unrelated to the outbreak. Read, listen to a book on tape. Take a bath, shower, or practice meditation. Do something nice for someone else. Practice gratitude and choose a positive mindset. Get accurate health information from reputable sources, including the Centers for Disease Control or the Minnesota Department of Health, or your local healthcare provider. COVID-19 Hotlines: (Health questions: 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903) (Schools and child care questions: 651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504) If you’re experiencing emotional distress related to COVID-19 and you are in Hennepin County, please call Community Outreach for Psychiatric Emergencies (COPE) at 612-596-1223. If a child 17 or under is experiencing problems, please call Child Crisis at 612-348-2233. More information about these services can be found here. If somebody is in immediate physical danger, please call 911. Outside of Hennepin County, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) or your local crisis line. For coping tools and resources, visit the Lifeline website or Vibrant Emotional Health’s Safe Space. There are many things you can do to support your child: Take time to talk with your child or teen about the COVID-19 outbreak. Answer questions and share facts about COVID-19 in a way that your child or teen can understand. Reassure your child or teen that they are safe. Let them know it is okay if they feel upset. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so that they can learn how to cope from you. Limit your family’s exposure to news coverage of the event, including social media. Children may misinterpret what they hear and can be frightened about something they do not understand. Try to keep up with regular routines. If schools are closed, create a schedule for learning activities and relaxing or fun activities. Be a role model.  Take breaks, get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat well. Connect with your friends and family members. For Responders: Responding to COVID-19 can take an emotional toll on you. There are things you can do to reduce secondary traumatic stress (STS) reactions: Acknowledge that STS can impact anyone helping families after a traumatic event. Learn the symptoms including physical (fatigue, illness) and mental (fear, withdrawal, guilt). Allow time for you and your family to recover from responding to the pandemic. Create a menu of personal self-care activities that you enjoy, such as spending time with friends and family, exercising, or reading a book. Take a break from media coverage of COVID-19. Ask for help if you feel overwhelmed or concerned that COVID-19 is affecting your ability to care for your family and patients as you did before the outbreak. Hennepin County Resources Still Open COPE (adults, 18+) (are not conducting visits right now): (612) 596-1223 (phone calls only at this time, no face to face crisis assessments until further notice) Child Crisis (children, 17 years and younger): (612) 348-2233 Withdrawal Management (Detox): (612) 348-4111 Reentry House (Crisis Housing for Adults): (612) 869-2411 Opportunity Center (Food, Mental Health Care, Showers, Lockers, Phones – 7am-4:30pm): (612) 204-8300 St. Steven’s Emergency Homeless Shelters: (612) 874-0311 Mental Health Center (telephone diagnostic assessments, therapy, and psychiatry) (612)596-9438 Mental Wellbeing Virtual Meetings/Support Groups Online AA meetings Love Lines (spiritually specific crisis line): (612) 379-1199 MN Warm Line Peer Connection: (844) 739-6369 Emotions Anonymous (International Online Weekly Meetings) Support Group Central (virtual support groups) For Families COVID-19 Resources for Families Helping Children Cope with Emergencies Just for Kids: A Comic Exploring The New Coronavirus Talking to Children About COVID-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource Checklist to Get Ready Mental Health & Crisis Numbers (24/7, free and confidential) Call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Text HOME to 741-741 for Crisis Text Line Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66-746 for the Disaster Distress Hotline Call 1-800-488-7386, text START to 678-678 or click here to chat with The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ youth) Call 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22-522 to connect with The National Domestic Violence Hotline TXT4LIFE- Crisis text line

Be That Neighbor: The Minneapolis Volunteer Brigade

Article by Claudia Kittock

We are living in very uncertain times. The new normal is not yet defined. We are offering a challenge to each and every one of you. Join us in creating the new normal. Join us in being the neighbor we hope moves in next door. Join us in changing the conversation of the new normal. Let’s make it about what we can be and then let’s all join together to make that new reality happen.

For most of us, our inconveniences are just that, inconvenient. For many of our neighbors, there are life altering changes that can include lack of health care, and an inability to get food. As Paul Wellstone so famously said, "When we all do better, we all do better." How can you help your neighbors do better?

We have set up a Facebook group, the Minneapolis Volunteer Brigade at https://www.facebook.com/groups/MinneapolisVolunteerBrigade/. It will list volunteer opportunities, people willing to volunteer, and community needs including financial support. Money is needed to feed people, but please know this is not a fundraising campaign. There will be many ways to help our neighbors in the months ahead.

Our community has enormous resources and a huge heart. Help! Visit the Facebook group and find what you can do. Spread the word! Make sure your Facebook friends know about this group. Post needs that you know about. Let’s make this moment in our history one when we all stood up. We ARE stronger together!

Join us in the Minneapolis Volunteer Brigade.

The Mill City Times Interview: Dancing Bear Chocolate

Article by Becky Fillinger

Dancing Bear Chocolate is in the final weeks leading up to opening their Northern Chocolate Studio at 4367 N Thomas Avenue in the Victory neighborhood. The coronavirus pandemic has shutdown much of the state.  Small businesses are still attempting to move forward, and in the spirit of supporting our community we will continue to report on how businesses are adapting. We sat down with the owners – practicing good social distancing - Joe Skifter and Steven Howard, to talk about their new space and their dreams for the business.

MCT:  What’s the anticipated opening date for your new space?  You had mentioned in other interviews that it won’t be a traditional retail location. What do you envision for your studio space?

JS:  We hope to be open the week before Easter, with the gelato/ice cream and treat window in operation at that time. We are at the mercy of COVID-19 right now so we will open for business as soon as we can. All construction is on pace to be finished mid-April. New windows and doors have been installed. We’re using all safety precautions to move ahead with our construction and to protect our crew. Currently we are planning on having the store open Thursday and Friday 3PM to 7PM and Saturday 10AM to 4PM. During warmer weather we will add hours of operation for the walk-up gelato window on Sunday and summer holidays.  During December, we plan to be open every day leading up to Christmas. We are planning to close the store for the month of January, reopening in February for Valentine’s Day.

SH: We’ll use the studio for fulfilling our online orders. Our space is wide open – the new windows are very large - with work tables and shelving separating retail from the kitchen. We want our customers and neighbors walking by to see what we are working on. We imagine it as a very interactive space – with demonstrations and classes. You’ll also see orchids in the window – we grow them at home and see them as adding to the beauty of the studio.

Joe Skifter and Steven Howard

MCT:  What’s the history of this building?

JS:  The structure was built in 1929 as a grocery store. In the 1940’s, it was a Spudnut Donut location.  Children would carry out trays of donuts and sell them door to door in the neighborhood. It then became the office of Dr. Vern Steffens, a dentist from the late 60’s till the 90’s. After that a local church ran a maternity assistance clinic at the location, aiding new mothers and babies. It sat vacant for a number of years.  I saw the real estate listing on New Year’s Day 2018 and knew it would be the perfect location for our dream of owning a chocolate shop. 

SH:  Every prior business here took care of the neighborhood – whether it was groceries, dental work or helping moms. We’re going to keep that pattern unbroken. We are actively looking for photos and stories of any of the earlier businesses and services at this location. Please contact us – we’ll share your stories too.

Dancing Bear Chocolate building design

MCT:  Steven, you’ve worked in chocolate in the past. You worked in desserts and pastries at RSVP Cruise Lines, D’Amico Cucina and you were a chocolatier on Nantucket Island. You also opened KoKoa Chocolatier in Tulsa OK, which grew to three locations. Was Dancing Bear Chocolate always in the back of your mind as the Minnesota entrepreneurial business you wanted?  

SH:  Some of my other positions were also very entrepreneurial. KoKoa, a chocolate-themed restaurant in Tulsa OK, started with one location and grew to three. For Dancing Bear, I want this to not just be an entrepreneurial business venture but also be a place for happiness and wonder. I’m envisioning a real Willie Wonka customer experience. It is certainly a goal to open the studio with my husband, Joe.

JS:  We want this to be a center of neighborhood experiences and activities. This is our future and we want to make a connection with every customer. **

MCT:  What is your formal chocolate education? 

SH:  I’m a self-taught chocolatier and executive pastry chef with over 20 years of experience.

MCT: A Yahoo small business article advises chocolate startups to start small and build a demand before investing in a big commercial space or expensive equipment. Have you followed this path?

JS: We are in our 3rd year of operation - we have taken a ‘go slow’ approach to this project. Selling online and through pop-up shops gave us the momentum to move forward with our own retail space and studio. We realize that we do not have unlimited funds and the funds we do have need to used wisely. We own the building which will keep our monthly expenses down.  The cost of the renovation is about double what we originally thought. A grant from the Victory Neighborhood Association has been very helpful in the renovation of our building.

MCT: How do you introduce customers to your products?

JS:  Well, we launched the company in 2018 without a retail location. We did pop-up sales at Chameleon Shoppes at Gaviidae Common and at Open Book. We’ve sold via Etsy.com. We have a strong social media presence with Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. We’ve sold wholesale and also donated product at many charitable events. 

SH: Most recently, we donated chocolate to go along with the meals Emilys F&M provides for people unable to venture out for meals during the coronavirus shutdown.     

MCT:  Empire Chocolates, a chocolate startup, describe their customer as “passionate about the arts - creative and sociable, they enjoy galleries and attend fashion events, they celebrate cultural and artistic icons they admire.” They have certainly drilled down to a specific an understanding of their customer? Who is your customer?

SH:  Our customers are all over the map. We all know that Minneapolis is an incredible foodie town - like Empire we have customers who fit the chocolate aficionado description. Our studio is also across the street from Loring Elementary School and Victory Park. We meet a lot of moms and families! We don’t want to price ourselves out of the market. Our chocolate and pastries will be accessible. Great chocolate does not have to be a luxury item. We meet our customers where they’re at. My main goals with the chocolate is that it taste delicious and create wonder, happiness and love – which can happen at many price points.

MCT:  What is behind the company name?

JS:  The name we chose for the business - Dancing Bear Chocolate – and the names of many of our products, have interesting stories. Steve is a fan of all things related to polar bears. He wanted the name and logo to be a dancing polar bear with a Northern Star. We hope our logo inspires hope, love and kindness. The logo also acknowledges our Minnesota roots. Our creations will often feature bears, hearts and stars. You’ll have to come by and check out our “Kodiak” bar and Bear Paw brownie. We hope to inspire our customers with joy and happiness through our products. Our customer reviews to date have told us that we’re meeting our objectives!

MCT:  What have been your biggest challenges? Have you found a way to overcome them?

JS:  We have had many challenges along the way, especially since taking on our building renovation. We had to re-zone our building from Office-Residential to Commercial-Retail, which was the original zoning for the structure. We had the good fortune of connecting with Zoe Thiel, Manager of the Minneapolis Small Business Team. Zoe has helped us immensely. We could pick up the phone and call her for advice and she always responded quickly. We took every setback in stride and continued to move forward. Failure was not an option and conquering each challenge is an unbelievable feeling of accomplishment. I said in an early conversation with Zoe, about the zoning challenges, that Minneapolis has been an incredible place for me to live, she has never let me down and I believe this is not the time she will.  I’m happy to say that Minneapolis did not let us down.  By the way, Under the Minneapolis 2040 plan, which Dancing Bear Chocolate did not fall under, it will be a lot easier to improve properties as well as to start and operate businesses in Minneapolis.

MCT: Do you handle corporate accounts? Custom orders?

SH:  Yes and Yes. This past holiday season, we received an order for 38 corporate gift baskets. We can incorporate corporate logos on chocolate pieces. Once we are in the studio, our capacity will skyrocket. Our cakes are all custom designed and made to order. 

MCT:  What’s on your wish list for 2020 and beyond?

JS:  We see a full line of Dancing Bear provisions. It could include honey, lemon curd, take and bake scones, sweet and savory crackers, etc. We see cooking classes by area chefs and artisans.

SH:  I feel that we birthed the business two years ago. We’re now growing it and putting it on the right path. Of course, the business will allow us to continue to support the charities important to us. Those are Polar Bears International and Open Arms of Minnesota. We live a few blocks from here. We’ve been blown away by the community outreach to us, even at this point. When we needed to rezone, the number of neighbors stepping forward to help was tremendous. Our goal is a bright, loving future for the business and our greater community.

**During our meeting, Joe Skifter saw a neighbor looking in the new windows. He opened the door to speak to her and give her an update on the business.

Coming Event

MCT:  Anything else you’d like to tell our readers?

DBC:  Follow our social media – come by for a gelato or chocolate in April – we look forward to meeting you!

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  - 

About Becky Fillinger

I’ve been a resident of the Mill District only since July 2019, but have visited the Guthrie, the Farmers Market, restaurants and friends in the area for many years prior to making the leap to Minneapolis. I’ve lived in many places (and climates) in the US and can testify that our cultural events, bicycle and hiking trails, parks and green spaces, museums, diverse neighborhoods and wonderful restaurants put Minnesota and Minneapolis high on my best places list. I’m a member of the Mill City Singers and look forward to our choir practices and performances.

One of my main interests is community - a very broad concept. For me it means bringing people together with common interests to form meaningful relationships. I look forward to reporting on businesses and individuals in our neighborhoods. Feel free to drop me an email at becky_fillinger@hotmail.com with your thoughts and ideas for stories. 

Drop-off sites to Collect Materials for People Supporting COVID-19 Response

Donations needed - please share this message!

Hennepin County has created drop-off locations for items needed to protect people responding to the COVID-19 crisis.

Staff working in quarantine operations, as first responders, in public health, and in clinics and hospitals are running low on supplies that keep them safe and help them continue their work protecting our community.

Priority items needed include:

• Protective face wear – N95 or N100 respirators, PAPRs and surgical masks
• Nitrile gloves
• Tyvek coveralls
• Tyvek foot covers
• Eye protection (wrap arounds or chemical splash)

Drop off site for Sunday, March 22

Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Hennepin County 
Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation
3000 North Second Street
Minneapolis, MN 55441

Drop off sites (starting Monday, March 23)

Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily

Hennepin County 
Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation
3000 North Second Street
Minneapolis, MN 55441

Adult Correctional Facility
1145 Shenandoah Lane North,
Plymouth, MN 55447

Southdale Library
7001 York Ave. South 
Edina, MN 55435

-  -  -  -  -  -

For donation questions contact: 

Michael Tupy

763-614-0503

Michael.Tupy@hennepin.us

West River Parkway Workday Closures Between 13th and 22nd Avenues S March 30-April 3

West River Parkway is scheduled to close between 13th Avenue S and 22nd Avenue S for up to five days beginning Monday, March 30. The closure will begin at 9 am and end at 4 pm each day.

The closure is necessary for construction activities related to the repair of the 10th Avenue Bridge. For more information on that project, please visit the City of Minneapolis 10th Avenue Bridge Repair website.

MSP Film is Open For Business...Online! Featuring Exclusive Online Screenings of Award Winners

A message from MSP Film Society:

WE'RE OPEN FOR BUSINESS - ONLINE!

Though our daily in-house cinema programming is temporarily suspended and the 2020 MSPIFF disrupted for now, we are busy looking for creative ways to bring film viewing opportunities to you, our amazing members and patrons!

In this spirit, we are thrilled to offer you the opportunity to watch two extraordinary new films from the comfort of your rocking-chair, couch, yoga-mat or kitchen table: The 2020 MSPIFF official selection Bacurau, by Brazillian filmmakers Juliano Dornelles and Kleber Mendonça Filho, and 2019 SXSW Audience Award winner Saint Frances, by director Alex Thompson and writer/star Kelly O'Sullivan. 

Neither film will be otherwise available for public rental or sale for several months, but we are partnering with independent distributors Kino Lorber and Oscilloscope Laboratories to bring a brave new alternative cinematic experience to film fans in our community! In collaboration with our industry peers, we’re making a program of films accessible to you now for home viewing. Details for accessing the films is below.

Your financial participation will directly support MSP Film as we reassess, plan for the future, and uphold our commitment to bringing our community together through the very best in international independent cinema. Thank you. We do it for you and couldn't do it without you. 

Enjoy the shows!

Saint Frances

Audience Award Winner:

SXSW, L.A. Outfest

Chicago Critics Film Festival

American Film Festiva

.

Flailing thirty-four-year-old Bridget (Kelly O’Sullivan) finally catches a break when she meets a nice guy and lands a much-needed job nannying six-year-old Frances (played by a scene-stealing Ramona Edith-Williams). But an unwanted pregnancy introduces an unexpected complication.

Bacurau

2020 MSPIFF Official Selection

.

A few years from now... Bacurau, a small village in the Brazilian sertão, mourns the loss of its matriarch, Carmelita, who lived to be 94. Days later, its inhabitants notice that their village has literally vanished from online maps and a UFO-shaped drone is seen flying overhead. There are forces that want to expel them from their homes, and soon, in a genre-bending twist, a band of armed mercenaries led by Udo Kier arrive in town picking off the inhabitants one by one.

FREE MUBI TRIAL WITH MEMBERSHIP!

Did you know that all MSP Film Membership levels include an exclusive trial access to MUBI, a curated independent film streaming service? The higher the Member level, the more free days of streaming independent international cinema! More info.

To get in contact with anyone from the MSP Film Society, please email us at info@mspfilm.org, as there are no staff on-site to answer phones. 

MPRB Parks and Trails Are Open for Your Enjoyment

Via a March 20 e-newsletter from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

Parks and trails are open!

While the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Boards's recreation centers and programming buildings are closed, there's still plenty to do outdoors!

Going outside to take a walk, ride a bike or just sit and breathe fresh air can be helpful during stressful times. If you are out with others or encounter others using the same amenities, please be mindful of social distancing and maintain a safe, appropriate distance.

The Minneapolis park system was planned so that nearly every resident can get to a park in about a 10-minute walk. You're probably familiar with your neighborhood park - did you know Minneapolis has 161 of them, most with paved paths? Regional parks offer opportunities to explore the city's lakes, creeks, river and natural areas: Scroll down to find one near you. 

Pets are welcome - but they must be on a leash.

In early spring, many wildlife species are protecting their young, so keeping dogs leashed is especially important.

Off-leash dogs are welcome at MPRB's seven dog parks - if their owner has a permit. Get details on off-leash dog-park permits and several options for purchasing them.

Signs of spring

While you're out, look for early spring plants emerging. MPRB gardening staff report that: 

Magnolia buds (which resemble pussy willows) are beginning to swell.

Skunk cabbage may soon start to show up near near the Mississippi River in Minnehaha Regional Park.

Snowdrops (also known as galanthus, pictured here) are due for an appearance.

Regional parks, trails and parkways near you

North Minneapolis

• Above the Falls Regional Park - including  Orvin “Ole” Olson Park, West River Parkway
  
  
• Luce Line Trail runs from near Parkers Lake in Plymouth through Theodore Wirth Regional Park to I-394 near Bryn Mawr Meadows Park
  
  
• North Mississippi Regional Park
  
  
• Shingle Creek Trail runs along Shingle Creek from Webber Park west to Brooklyn Center
  
  
• Theodore Wirth Regional Park and Theodore Wirth Parkway 
  
  
• Victory Memorial Drive runs from Theodore Wirth Regional Park to Webber Park
  
  
• West River Parkway runs along the west bank of the Mississippi River from Plymouth Ave. N to Godfrey Parkway

Northeast/Southeast Minneapolis

• Above the Falls Regional Park - including Edgewater Park, Gluek Park, Marshall Terrace Park, Sheridan Memorial Park
  
  
• Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park - including B.F. Nelson Park, Boom Island Park, Father Hennepin Bluff Park, Historic Main Street Park, Nicollet Island Park, Stone Arch Bridge, West River Parkway
  
  
• Northeast Diagonal Trail runs from Hennepin Ave. and Stinson Blvd. to Walnut St. past Gross Golf Club
  
  
• Ridgway Parkway runs from Stinson Blvd. to St. Anthony Blvd. next to Hillside Cemetery
  
  
• St. Anthony Parkway runs from North Mississippi Regional Park to Stinson Parkway 
  
  
• Stinson Parkway runs from St. Anthony Parkway to New Brighton Blvd.

Downtown Minneapolis / U of M

• Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park - including Bluff Street Park, Boom Island Park, First Bridge Park, Mill Ruins Park, Nicollet Island Park, Stone Arch Bridge, West River Parkway 
  
  

• East River Parkway runs along the east bank of the Mississippi River from the University of Minnesota to Eustis Street

• West River Parkway runs along the west bank of the Mississippi River from Plymouth Ave. N to Godfrey Parkway

South Minneapolis

• Minnehaha Creek Park and Minnehaha Parkway along Minnehaha Creek
  
  
• Minnehaha Regional Park
  
  
• Mississippi Gorge Regional Park - including  Bluff Street Park, Bohemian Flats, East River Flats Park, Franklin Terrace Dog Park, Riverside Park, West River Parkway 
  
  
• Nokomis-Hiawatha Regional Park - including Lake Hiawatha Park and Lake Nokomis Park 
•  
• West River Parkway runs along the west bank of the Mississippi River from Plymouth Ave. N to Godfrey Parkway

Southwest Minneapolis

• Minneapolis Chain of Lakes Regional Park - including Beard’s Plaisance, Bde Maka Ska Park, Brownie Lake Park, Cedar Lake Park, Cedar Lake Regional Trail, Dean Parkway, Lake Harriet Park, Lake of the Isles Park, Lyndale Park, William Berry Park, William Berry Parkway 
  
  
• Kenwood Parkway runs from Lake of the Isles Park to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
  
  
• Kings Highway runs east of Lyndale Park and Lakewood Cemetery
  
  
• Minnehaha Creek Park and Minnehaha Parkway along Minnehaha Creek

Stay Informed on MPRB news re: COVID-19

• Visit minneapolisparks.org/coronavirus for updated FAQs and cancellation listings.
  
  
• Subscribe to email updates at minneapolisparks.org/subscribe. Enter your email and select the COVID-19” topic in the “News Updates” section.

Minneapolis Police Precinct 1 Informational Alert

Via a March 19 e-alert from the Minneapolis Police Department, First Precinct:

Business Crime Prevention Alert

The 1st Precinct suggests the following recommendations to help reduce the opportunity for crimes to occur during this emergency declaration.

We are asking all residents of 1st Precinct to report suspicious activity to prevent the potential of burglaries of business by calling 911.

Be aware of your surroundings.

FOR BUSINESSES If your business is closed during the emergency declaration review your security plan, remove any cash and valuables. Remember to make sure your security system is functional, accessible and is armed in the event of an incident. Check all lighting. Update the list of emergency contact if law enforcement personnel need to communicate with you. 

Additional tips below to safeguard your business during a very difficult time. 

• BURGLARY PREVENTION
  • Make sure all outside entrances and inside security doors have deadbolt locks. If you use padlocks, they should be made of steel and kept locked at all times. Remember to remove serial numbers from your locks, to prevent unauthorized keys from being made.
  • All outside or security doors should be metal-lined and secured with metal security crossbars. Pin all exposed hinges to prevent removal. Use shrouds around the deadbolt to prevent prying.
  • Windows should have secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. Consider installing metal grates on all your windows except display windows.
  • Remove all expensive items from window displays at night and make sure you can see easily into your business after closing.
  • Light the inside and outside of your business, especially around doors, windows, skylights, or other entry points. Consider installing covers over exterior lights and power sources to deter tampering.
  • Check the parking lot for good lighting and unobstructed views.
  • Be sure your safe is fireproof and securely anchored. It should be kept in plain view. Leave it open when it’s empty, use it to lock up valuables when you close. Remember to change the combination and all business access codes when an employee leaves your employment.
  • PLEASE REFER TO THIS ALERT FOR FURTHER TIPS

For questions, contact:

Renee Allen, Crime Prevention Specialist
Minneapolis Police Department, First Precinct
renee.allen@minneapolismn.gov
(612) 673-5163

Homelessness: Facts Matter When Talking About Crime & People Experiencing Homelessness

Article by Claudia Kittock

Facts matter. Experience matters. Opinions must be treated as just that, opinions. The recently expressed opinion that “Many of Downtown East’s problems are ‘crimes of opportunity’ and stem from homelessness, substance abuse and mental health issues," is just that, an opinion. Is it based on facts? Is it a helpful narrative, or is it an opinion, masquerading as a fact that will cause real harm to the most vulnerable among us?

If you are someone experiencing homelessness you are more likely to be the victim of crime than to be a perpetrator. Opinion? In December, the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH) concluded homeless individuals are far more likely than the general population to be victims of violent crime. In their latest report, “Vulnerable to Hate: A Survey of Bias-Motivated Violence against People Experiencing Homelessness in 2016-2017,” the NCH documented at least 112 anti-homeless attacks that occurred in the United States in 2016 and 2017, and analyzed 1,769 reported acts of violence committed against homeless individuals from 1999-2017. Of the 1,769 violent acts, 476 victims lost their lives as a result.

NCH studied attacks that occurred in 48 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.

A 16-year-old young man I have known for several years was thrown out of his home for being gay. His parents wanted nothing more to do with him. He slept on the light rail for 4 months with a suitcase that contained all his worldly goods. As difficult as it was to sleep, he fell asleep one night only to find his suitcase had been stolen while he was sleeping. Sixteen, alone, without anything but the clothes on his back. Should I be scared of this young man because he is experiencing homelessness, or should I be horrified at the circumstances that led him to that moment?

A new report by homeless charity Crisis has revealed the shocking level of violence and intimidation homeless people face.

Researchers speaking to people sleeping outside found: 

• More than one in three have been deliberately been hit, kicked, or experienced some other form of violence while homeless.

• Over one in three (34%) have had things thrown at them. 

• Almost one in 10 (9%) have been urinated on while homeless. 

• More than one in 20 (7%) have been the victim of a sexual assault. 

• Almost half (48%) have been intimidated or threatened with violence whilst homeless.

• Six in 10 (59%) have been verbally abused or harassed.

.

People experiencing homelessness are often pulled into the criminal or juvenile justice systems for misdemeanor offenses related to attempts to survive on the streets. They may be prosecuted for things like shoplifting or for publicly engaging in basic life activities like standing or sleeping — activities that would never be an offense when done in one’s home. Unhoused people are often segregated from society; are subjected to laws that make it illegal to be poor or have their property legally stolen; receive a criminal label; refused a place to sleep; denied food, bathrooms, and healthcare; are verbally abused; have their existence denied; and sometimes, are attacked by housed community members with a bias against homelessness. This dehumanization leads to the marginalization of people experiencing homelessness and leaves these groups unprotected.

$2.50 is the difference between a loitering charge or not. I can spend a day in a coffee shop because I can afford to pay for coffee. Someone experiencing homelessness that came into a coffee shop to try to warm up but cannot afford a cup of coffee, can get charged with loitering and then may likely be trespassed from the premise. When I meet some of my homeless friends for coffee, they are afraid to arrive before I do because they are quite certain they will be asked to leave if I am not there to make sure they get a coffee. 

What about the concern that having people experiencing homelessness in your community makes you less safe? In a recent analysis of 11 city-sanctioned homeless villages of tiny homes in Seattle and Portland, Ore., it was found that crime rates went down in five of those neighborhoods, stayed about the same in four and went up only in two. A 2013 randomized controlled trial in a housing-first program in Vancouver, British Columbia, showed that providing market-rate apartments around the city to homeless mentally ill people reduced crime. A Washington Post analysis of research concluded, “On average, researchers have found supportive housing facilities servicing the homeless and other vulnerable populations rarely lead to higher crime rates.”

The irony is that housing for the homeless isn’t the cause of crime; it’s the solution to it. Study after study shows that even those homeless individuals with severe mental illness or suffering from addiction have lower rates of criminal behavior once they have a roof over their head. Building shelters and housing will deter crime and protect lives, not cause crime.

The vast majority of people who have substance abuse, mental or physical health conditions, criminal records, etc. are housed. While there may separately and collectively be things that people experiencing homelessness deal with at a high rate, they are still a small minority of people to struggle with specific conditions. We have compassion for housed people who struggle with addiction and mental health issues. Why not for people who are too poor to afford housing or to access health care?

Have you noticed the language I use - people experiencing homelessness, as opposed to homeless person? It is deliberate and taught to me by people far wiser than I. I would be horrified to be defined by the worse moment of my life. Being homeless tends to be transitory for the vast majority of people. It is a moment in time. Imagine being known as “drunk John" for the rest of your life based on your time of excess drinking in college. We wouldn’t stand for it. It isn’t accurate and it isn’t relevant.

Friends of the Mill District recently began holding a series of Community Conversations throughout the Mill District. The three leaders of this conversation are people who work to provide support for people experiencing homelessness. Lieutenant Grant Snyder, police liaison for people experiencing homelessness, Katie Miller, mental health advocate with the police department, and Joe Kreisman, chair of Align Minneapolis, formerly the Congregations to End Homelessness. Each of these experts about their work, but most of the sessions are question-answer format. We have had two of these conversations in two different condo buildings, and the reviews were glowing. Once the Coronavirus concerns pass, we will resume these conversations. In the meantime, if you are interested in being part of these conversations, contact Claudia Kittock at cjkittock@gmail.com. It is not too early to begin to schedule a conversation in your building.

We need to have fact-based conversations. We need to decide who we want to be as a community. We need to create the neighborhood we want to live in, one filled with kindness and compassion with room enough for all. 

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -  

About Claudia Kittock

Claudia is a resident of the Mill District. In addition to writing for Mill City Times, she is a founding Board Member of Friends of the Mill District. Claudia is the author of Health Through Chaos, mentors young adults at YouthLink, and has served on the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA).

.

Contact: claudia@millcitymedia.org

Community Update from Ward 3 Council Member Steve Fletcher

Editors note: We've reached out to elected officials and community leaders for updates to the new issues facing Downtown Minneapolis residents. We will be publishing these updates and notices until the Coronavirus emergency subsides. Send updates to dave@millcitymedia.org

Friends -

I'm full of gratitude to our community during a challenging time. I'm seeing local businesses taking steps to protect their employees and customers, Minneapolis city staff and leaders stepping up in big and important ways, and lots of individuals offering help to neighbors. Thank you!

The city’s first responsibility is to maintain critical services. Some of the unseen emergency preparedness work that we do day to day will pay dividends this month, as redundancies in our water filtration system and other critical infrastructure ensure that tap water is still freely flowing and safe, garbage is still collected, first responders are available for emergencies, and more.  I’m very proud of our city staff, who are working tirelessly to maintain a high level of service while adapting to pandemic protocols. For more, the city’s website has a page dedicated to COVID response. http://minneapolismn.gov/emergency/coronavirus

Like all employers are advised to do, we’re encouraging city employees who can do their jobs from home to do so. That includes my own Ward 3 office staff, who will be available by phone and e-mail, and continue to do great work supporting Ward 3 constituents.

We’ll also be canceling or postponing all non-essential in-person meetings, and looking for ways to engage more online. More details on this are below.

Today, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey declared a local public health emergency to respond to the threat posed by COVID-19. Under City Ordinances, the mayor is granted additional powers, authorities, and responsibilities upon the declaration of a local emergency.

The mayor’s declaration, which I support, must be voted on by the city council within 72 hours. Mayor Frey has requested that the emergency declaration remain in effect as long as the State of Minnesota peacetime emergency declaration remains in effect. 

Under this declaration, Mayor Frey is closing or limiting access to bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and coffee shops in Minneapolis and will be in close communication with state leadership on the process. Operations will be limited to delivery, takeout, and drive thru orders. The new rule will be effective and enforceable starting at noon tomorrow. This is a tough decision, but the right one, and necessary. 

Consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the city will halt issuance of new permits for any gatherings of 50 or more people. The local emergency declaration will also allow Minneapolis Emergency Management to request and coordinate aid and resources from jurisdictional partners.

Last week, our Public Works director announced that the city would suspend water shutoffs for non-payment for the month ahead. Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy have pledged the same for their utilities. Additionally, USI Wireless and Comcast have opened up their public wi-fi hotspots for free access.

Mayor Frey and Council President Bender have also been in contact with the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office regarding eviction enforcement in Minneapolis.

While we continue to coordinate with private partners and government partners at every level on the healthcare response, we’re simultaneously coordinating to craft an economic response to cushion the blow for small business owners, freelancers, and tipped employees. Here's some valuable information on state #COVID resources for workers and small businesses. Unemployment Insurance will help employees who lose hours or are laid off. Small Business Disaster Loan info will be available there as soon as the federal government releases guidelines. https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/covid/    

In the meantime, anything you can do to orient whatever consumer spending you’re doing toward neighborhood local businesses, know that they’re all in need of our support right now, and will be when we’re on the other side of this, too.

We have some difficult days ahead. Stay healthy, help others where you can, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. My office is here to help, as are many other community resources. Call (612) 673-2203 or e-mail steve.fletcher@minneapolismn.gov with requests, ideas, and feedback. We’ll get through this together, as a community.

En avant,

Steve Fletcher

Ward 3 City Council

A Fort in Paradise: Part III

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

Part II of this three-part series looked into how Fort Snelling came to be and its role in the U.S. Civil War and the U.S. – Dakota War of 1862. Established to protect the fur trading in the area, the Fort provided a sense of safety for immigrants who were moving West. As European-American communities started popping up in close proximity to the Fort and throughout the Upper Midwest, the need for Fort Snelling diminished. Once the Civil War started, Governor Ramsey was the first to volunteer troops to President Lincoln in support of the Union. Thousands of troops were trained at the Fort during this time and many played important roles in the battles of First Bull Run, Antietam, and Gettysburg.

The Fort also played a role in the U.S. – Dakota War as over 1,600 Dakota women, children, and elders were forcefully marched along the Minnesota River and put into concentration camps just below the Fort during the winter of 1862-63. Fort Snelling became the headquarters of the U.S. military’s Department of the Dakota in the 1870s, and served during the Spanish-American War in 1898 and the Philippine-American War from 1899 – 1902. From 1882 – 1888, the Fort was home to the famed Twenty-Fifth United States Infantry Regiment, a segregated African American unit, also known as the Buffalo Soldiers.

1919 photo of nurses teaching wounded soldiers crafts.

During WWI, the Fort became a processing and officer training center for thousands of troops. In September of 1918, the Medical Department of the US Army took over the Fort and it acted as a General Hospital. With 1,200 beds available, an all-woman Army Nurse Corps helped many people during the Spanish Flu outbreak, and when that subsided, they helped veterans who returned home after WWI. The nurses also acted as occupational therapists for many of the veterans by playing games with them and teaching them crafts. Once the war was over, Fort Snelling became known as the “country club of the army.” There were swimming pools, a polo team, and many other activities during this time. Thanks to the Civilian Conservation Corps, many of the Fort’s buildings were restored and a reception center was built to aid with the processing of new recruits.

Over 300,000 men and women went through Fort Snelling during WWII. While many of them were sent to different bases for basic training, some training did occur at the Fort, such as training for Military Police and Military Railway Service soldiers. The Fort played a very important role during this war as it was home to the Military Intelligence Service Language School. Here, over 6,000 Japanese Americans were taught the Chinese, Korean, and Japanese languages and cultures in order to aid in interpretation and interrogation, and help intelligence workers.

1944 photo of Japanese translators at the Fort.

Once WWII came to an end, so did the need for Fort Snelling as a military site. It was decommissioned by the War Department on October 14th, 1946. Most of the Fort’s land was taken by various federal agencies, and in 1960, the existing structures of the Fort were listed as National Historic Landmarks. This marked the beginning of its transition into a historic and educational site.

Picture of the inside of Fort Snelling taken in 1972.

For eighteen years, archaeologists meticulously excavated the area of the original fort. At the time, the only original structures that were left were the Round Tower, Commanding Officer’s House, South Battery, and Officers' Quarters. In 1970, the Minnesota Historical Society opened the Fort to the public as a historic site with interpretation of what life was like back when the Fort was active. By the early 1980s, over 500,000 artifacts were uncovered, and two dozen structures, buildings, walls, were reconstructed to make Fort Snelling appear as it did when it was first made in the 1820s. Since then, Historic Fort Snelling has welcomed school groups, tourists, and locals alike and introduced them to the history of one of the most important sites in this land we call Minnesota.

Now is also an important transition time for Historic Fort Snelling. Beginning this spring, a two-year process will begin to transform existing buildings, that are located outside of the Fort’s walls, into a new visitor center with exhibition and event space. Additionally, new landscaping that brings the entire site together will be added, and there will be no story left untold from the many different peoples who have called this land home.

1942 photo of soldier maneuvers on skis at the Fort.

This three-part series is just the tip of the iceberg of the history of Bdote and Fort Snelling, and that’s even an understatement. Dred and Harriet Scott once resided within these walls as enslaved persons, Dakota leaders Little Six and Medicine Bottle were hanged here, and the 99th Infantry Battalion, a group of Norwegian-speaking soldiers, were trained here to fight on skis and snowshoes during WWII. These stories and many more are waiting to be explored. Once the weather warms up and the earth is healthy again, plan a trip to Historic Fort Snelling at Bdote. If you’re lucky, I just might be your guide. 

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -   

About Michael Rainville, Jr.

A 6th generation Minneapolitan, Michael Rainville Jr. received his B.A. in History from the University of St. Thomas, and is currently enrolled in their M.A. in Art History and Certificate in Museum Studies programs. Michael is also a historic interpreter and guide at Historic Fort Snelling at Bdote and a lead guide at Mobile Entertainment LLC, giving Segway tours of the Minneapolis riverfront for 7+ years. Contact: mrainvillejr@comcast.net. Click here for an interactive map of Michael's past articles.

Resources for Coronavirus-Related Cancellations, Closures and Misc. Updates

We've started a list of resources to verify events and venues that have been declared cancelled, postponed, temporarily closed, etc., along with other miscellaneous updates related to COVID-19. We will continue to update this list.

COVID-19 updates from City partners

Minnesota Stay at home except for essential needs order  Minnesota Department of Health guidance for all Minnesotans Hennepin County COVID-19 information Metro Transit schedule impacts Minneapolis Public Schools COVID-19 resources Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board COVID-19 FAQs and updates  Meet Minneapolis #WeGotThisMPLS campaign Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District City of Saint Paul COVID-19 information University of Minnesota COVID-19 updates

https://www.minneapolis.org/covid-19/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Learn%20More&utm_campaign=Leisure-Email

https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-news/full-list-all-41-types-of-business-activities-under-mandatory-closure-in-minnesota-because-of-covid-19-outbreak?fbclid=IwAR14WFbM5l_KJxm2iR11RpkV8ykBKk--pVAMH0n9rq1Omd1z0EQzSVT859U

http://www.startribune.com/first-ave-other-music-venues-will-shut-down-through-march-due-to-crowd-limits/568798312/?fbclid=IwAR0VIN5WAdYdhoS9skS63oUfXsSI3xlQa4NWEDuBUCKFII1Z0I_XfyC-utk

.

https://www.kare11.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/coronavirus-related-cancellations-postponements-and-impacts-in-the-twin-cities/89-42ce761f-ef95-4135-a1b6-ec10ad310bc4

.

https://bringmethenews.com/minnesota-news/heres-everything-in-minnesota-that-has-been-canceled-postponed-by-covid-19

.

https://www.twincities.com/2020/03/12/coronavirus-st-paul-minneapolis-schools-events-canceled/

.

https://www.minneapolis.org/covid-19/

.

https://kstp.com/news/disruptions-due-to-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak/5672421/?cat=1%3Fxafd&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_KSTP-TV&fbclid=IwAR09d3tspbUrDuZPe1Sk5XIlSLXPIcQpG9jKS-4sv7aaXq4KzkXOJHAY9ps

.

https://www.minnpost.com/state-government/2020/03/walz-orders-all-minnesota-schools-to-close-for-8-days-35-cases-of-covid-19-now-confirmed/

.

https://www.minneapolisparks.org/coronavirus-covid-19-information/

.

https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/index.html

.

https://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2020/03/13/coronavirus-updates-the-latest-covid-19-headlines-from-march-13-2020/?fbclid=IwAR1NOfacY-XB1kZELBEwrNCDOBy0OzB5X9HeZgJtl1Ufyr2eEdLarNpchiE

.

http://mspmag.com/arts-and-culture/updated-list-coronavirus-cancellations/?utm_source=SilverpopMailing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=031620_MDaily%20(1)&utm_content=cta1&spMailingID=17088113&spUserID=MTMwMDQzMzExMDk4S0&spJobID=1840877514&spReportId=MTg0MDg3NzUxNAS2

10th Avenue Bridge and Watermain Project Update - March 13, 2020

The 10th Avenue Bridge will be closed and detours will be in effect for approximately 18 months, until Summer 2021. This project will rehabilitate the historic 10th Ave SE bridge over the Mississippi River and W River Pkwy. A new water main will be installed under the river as part of the project. More info.

* * 10th Avenue Bridge is closing for repairs March 30, 2020 * *

Latest Project News

- Road closure signs were installed on March 9, 2020 to announce the upcoming closure on March 30th.

- The contractor will begin bridge deck removals in April 2020.

Construction Update Meeting - March 20

Project staff will hold a construction update meeting at the Seven Corners Apartment Building (Community Room) at 1400 S 2nd St., Minneapolis, MN 55454. Members of the public are invited to attend and hear updates on construction progress and speak with project staff on Friday, March 20, 2020 at 10:30 am.

For more information, please see the latest construction update.

Photo: City of Minneapolis

What to Expect

- The bridge will be closed to all traffic including, vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians beginning on March 30, 2020.

- The bridge closure and detours will be in effect for approximately 18 months, until Summer 2021.

- Work requires the use of heavy equipment that will increase noise, vibration, and dust in work areas.

- Access to adjacent apartments and businesses will remain open during the construction activity.

- Changes to the University of Minnesota’s University Ave Circulator Bus (Route 122).

For more information on this project contact:

Bridge Contact: Meseret Wolana, meseret.wolana@minneapolismn.gov or 612-673-3527

Water Main Contact: Peter Pfister, peter.pfister@minneapolismn.gov or 612-661-4906

10thavebridge.com

City Council Should Approve Application for Federal Grant

On March 4 the Minneapolis City Council Public Safety Committee voted to not apply for a Federal Grant to fund a possible future increase in the number of sworn officers in the Minneapolis Police Department. The full Council should revisit this decision.

By Editorial Board Mill City Times

How We Got Here. Last year Minneapolis saw a major increase in violent crime AND 6,000+ 911 calls that were not responded to in a timely fashion, or at all, due to an understaffed police department AND a heated debate at City Hall over the need to add more officers.

The Police staffing issue was easily the most contentious topic in the annual City budgeting process. As part of a compromise, the City Council agreed to commission an independent, third party study (due later this year) to determine the proper number of sworn officers in the MPD. The intent was was admirable, especially in the political climate of today: let’s use a fact-based approach to setting our police budget.

An Increased Need for Police Officers? Over a twelve month period from mid-2018 to mid-2019, Police Chief Medaria Arradondo reported over 6000 instances in which no police were immediately available to respond to a Priority 1 call, such as a shooting, rape, missing person, assault, or a drug overdose. When a Minneapolitan is in life threatening danger, they have an understandable expectation that the police will show up.

The Vision Zero initiative in Minneapolis aims to eliminate traffic deaths and severe injuries on city streets by 2027.  An average of 95 people are killed or severely injured in traffic crashes on streets in Minneapolis each year. Minneapolis has four traffic investigators to handle follow-up on the most serious accidents and ZERO traffic enforcement officers. These facts should be of interest to any person who lives or works or owns a business, rides a bike, busses or light rail, or crosses city streets as a pedestrian. How will we reach the goal of zero deaths each year without someone to enforce existing, and new Vision Zero laws & rules?

An Opportunity for Outside Funding Should We need More Officers. For the 1^st time in 3 years, the Federal Government is offering Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grants meant to help law enforcement agencies to hire more community policing officers, to acquire new technologies and equipment, to hire civilians for administrative tasks, and to promote innovative approaches to solving crime. City staff worked to prepare the grant proposal so as to be prepared.

An Opportunity Squandered? Minneapolis has the opportunity to apply for a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services that could pay for hiring, training and deploying 10 new traffic officers over three years. The city’s contribution would be about $4.6 million to match the grant and cover other expenses. If the grant was awarded, Minneapolis could assign the 10 new police officers to handle traffic matters (moving us toward our Vision Zero goals) and potentially free up police officers to handle more of the unanswered Priority 1 calls.

2 facts to keep in mind when it comes to this grant:

- The grant, if awarded this fall, can be rejected by the City Council when the successful applicants are notified later this fall - Should the result of the aforementioned staffing study conclude that the police are currently staffed at the right level, the grant can be rejected by the City Council with no penalty.

- The City can decide to go back to previous staffing levels at the end of the grant period (3 years) should the need for the additional officers decline.

The 4-2 vote to not apply for the grant – was on a motion by Council member Steve Fletcher and backed by Public Safety and Emergency Management Committee members  Alondra Cano, Phillipe Cunningham and Jeremiah Ellison. The vote sends the matter back to city staff — effectively killing the proposal, since the grant application deadline is later this month.

Mayor Jacob Frey and Police Chief Medaria Arradondo are in favor of applying for the grant. Downtown business leaders have also expressed dismay at the Council’s decision to not pursue the grant. Chief Arradondo describes the level of police officer staffing as ‘hemorrhaging and broken’.

Right now, the City of Minneapolis is conducting a large study to review police staffing. Results of the study are not expected until September. Mayor Frey has indicated that he’ll follow the recommendations of the study.

“If that study says that we should be adding additional officers, it’s common sense that we should allow for assistance in paying for those officers," said Frey. "Why would we turn down money that we could use to both benefit public safety and not add burden to taxpayers?"

Minneapolis needs to pursue whatever avenues of crime prevention and increased public safety are available to the community. Commission studies, study the results, look at alternative means of crime prevention, investigate police procedures, recruit diverse community voices in seeking solutions, review crime and traffic data and yes, apply for grants that would fund additional officers on the street. Minneapolis can always staff at lower levels if that is the recommendation of the police staffing study. We can’t reject grant money that we didn’t seek.

Mill City Times recommends recommend reaching out to your City Council member to urge them to support applying for the Community Oriented Policing Services federal grant.  It’s a risk-free move that could save the City a significant chunk of tax dollars.