CANCELED: Tonight's DMNA Meeting

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION - TONIGHT'S MEETING AT OPEN BOOK

From the DMNA (Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association):

- The September 9th & 10th engagement meetings have been canceled.

- The September 21st vote on the proposal to form two independent neighborhood associations has been canceled.

Based on feedback received during the August engagement meetings as well as lack of board consensus on how to proceed, it has been decided that the process to hold a vote on forming two independent neighborhood associations will be suspended indefinitely.

From Chad DiDonato, DMNA Chair: "I listened to feedback from our members during the first two outreach and engagement meetings. After working directly with City of Minneapolis NCR on a potential solution which included a vote on a potential boundary change, I presented it to the Board. In order to move forward I believed an unanimous consensus from the Board was needed. We almost had full consensus but since we did not, I recommended we stop the process immediately. I want to thank every member who became involved in the process as we truly value your opinions."

New Design Details for "The Commons" [Download]

Recently presented to the planning commission, download here (note: 12mb file size)

“Fashioning a Future” Runway Show to Raise Funds for Earthquake Victims in Nepal on Sept. 11

Minneapolis retailers Key North Boutique and T Lee Custom Designer Jewelry are collaborating on a fashion show fundraiser to help earthquake victims in Nepal rebuild their lives. Proceeds will be donated to AmeriCares’ Nepal Relief Fund which is providing medical supplies and humanitarian aid for families in crisis.

Last year, T Lee Custom Designer Jewelry raised $4000 for the Shree Saraswoti Kunja primary school in central Nepal. This year, Key North Boutique and T Lee Custom Designer Jewelry are collaborating in the hopes of raising more money for the long-term recovery of the Nepali people.

Savvy style expert Grant Whitaker of Whitaker Style will emcee the runway show, with models wearing fashions from Key North Boutique and jewelry from T Lee Custom Designer Jewelry. Key North will feature exclusive women's clothing and accessory collections from American and International (Paris, London, Brussels, Munich) designers. Key North has created a local marketplace for organic, sustainable, fair-trade fashions that supports global designers, artisans and workers who are paid a fair wage. T Lee Custom Designer Jewelry will debut new one of a kind pieces and also a new collection of fine jewelry woven in 24kt and palladium. All materials used in T Lee designs are ethically sourced and mined.

VIP tickets are available for $100, which includes a reserved seat for the runway show, two $50 gift cards (one each from Key North and T Lee), and food and drink. Food will be donated by Gorhka Palace and beverages will be donated by North Loop Wine & Spirits. General admission tickets are available for $10.

For every $1 donated, AmeriCares provides $20 in aid. Because they deliver donated medicines and medical supplies to a trusted network of locally-based providers, the impact is multiplied many times over to save more lives in Nepal. AmeriCares has been aiding survivors of natural disasters, political conflict and extreme poverty around the world for more than 30 years, saving lives and restoring health and hope.

“Fashioning a Future” is sponsored by The Journal and the Southwest Journal.

WHAT: “Fashioning a Future” fundraiser for Earthquake Victims in Nepal

WHEN: Sept 11, 5-9pm

5-6pm: VIP preview

6-6:30pm: runway show

6:30-6:45pm: Q&A with Grant Whitaker

6:45-9pm: socializing and shopping

WHERE: Boardwalk in front of the Key North Boutique and T Lee Designer Jewelry, 515 and 509 1/2 First Ave NE in Old Town Minneapolis (next door to the Red Stag)

COST: $10 general admission; $100 VIP

TICKETS: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fashioning-a-future-tickets-17809464588

CONTACT: 612-455-6666 or 612-789-2656

About Key North Boutique

Key North Boutique a specialty shop owned by Katie Greene and Gwen Engelbert in Minneapolis. Featuring exclusive women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessory collections from local and international designers, the fabrics are luxe, the designers are among the finest, and it’s all fair trade and sustainable. Learn more at keynorthboutique.com.

About T Lee Custom Designer Jewelry

Owned by jewelry designer T Lee and managed by Nathaniel Smith, T Lee Designer Jewelry is committed to ethical and sustainable practices in jewelry making. Focusing on custom design for 32 years, T Lee Custom Designer Jewelry is the Twin Cities premier design team, owning the phrase “There’s nothing we can’t customize.” Learn more at tleegold.com.

In the News

August 30, 2015

PROPOSAL FOR TURBINES AT ST. ANTHONY FALLS IS ALREADY GENERATING PLENTY OF OPPOSITION

PAY-BY-PHONE PARKING COMES TO MPLS. DOWNTOWN, NORTH LOOP

WHEN THEY PAINT HIS MASTERPIECE: DYLAN PORTRAIT TO FILL A DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS WALL

KNEAD HELP: BAKER HOPES NEW MILL SPARKS MINNEAPOLIS FLOUR POWER

CITY CLEARS GAS STATION'S DEMOLITION OF 123-YEAR-OLD BUILDING

U.S. BANK PROVIDES FINANCING FOR TURNING PLYMOUTH BUILDING INTO HOTEL

NORTH LOOP'S LUMBERSEXUAL VIBE GETS BOOST WITH CONVERSION OF JACKSON BUILDING INTO HEWING HOTEL

DEVELOPER PLANS 'BREWTEL,' HEADQUARTERS IN ELLIOT PARK

BACK FROM THE DRAWING BOARD, KRAUS-ANDERSON HAS A MUCH BIGGER PLAN FOR ITS DOWNTOWN BLOCK

HERBIVOROUS BUTCHER WILL OPEN IN NORTHEAST THIS FALL

PANDORA OPENS DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS OFFICE TO PULL LOCAL ADVERTISERS TO STREAMING MUSIC SERVICE

MINNEAPOLIS PARK FUNDING MEETING PLANNED

THE LINE AND CREATIVE EXCHANGE PRESENT "CREATING COMMUNITY" ON SEPTEMBER 16

U.S. BANK STADIUM CONSTRUCTION WORKER KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED IN FALL

SPORTS SOUVENIR SHOP NEXT TO METRODOME IS MOVING ST. LOUIS PARK

TIME NEARLY UP FOR MINNEAPOLIS SOCCER STADIUM LAND

DOWNTOWN EAST COMMONS CLEARS ANOTHER HURDLE

September 14 at Gold Medal Park - Movies In the Park: Monty Python and the Holy Grail

From the Film Society of MSP:

The Film Society is excited to announce an all new program of outdoor screenings! Join us September 14 at dusk for the inaugural presentation at Gold Medal Park, featuring a 40th anniversary screening of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the iconic comedy gem by Minneapolis native Terry Gilliam. See it for the first time, or see it again and introduce it to a new generation with this gloriously remastered HD restoration. We'll provide the coconuts.

Co-hosted by Cynthia Froid Group.

Mississippi Minute Film Festival Entries Open Until September 15th, Film Contest Judges Named

Call for additional entries to the Mississippi Minute Film Festival; entries are open online until September 15, 2015 at 5:00 PM.

“Imagination and creativity are what’s most important for your film or video entry; much more important than film-making skills. Entries are welcome at all levels; no one should be afraid to enter!” notes Kathleen Boe, Executive Director of the Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership (MRP), sponsor of the Festival.

Entries are made online, and all entry information, forms and formats are accessible at www.mississippiminute.org.

Judges for the Film Festival have also been named; they are:

• Whitney Clark, Executive Director, Friends of the Mississippi River
• Lisa Goodman, Council Member, Minneapolis City Council
• Brenda Langton, owner/founder of Spoonriver Restaurant; founder of the Mill City Farmer’s Market
• Tom Meyer, Founding Principal, Meyer, Scherer and Rockcastle, Ltd
• Dean Otto, Program Manager, Moving Image, Walker Art Center
• Blong Yang, Council Member, Minneapolis City Council

Films will be shown at MRPs Riverfront Summit, October 26th at the Mill City Museum at 6:00 PM. Film winners and awards will be announced at that time as well.

Guest speaker John Anfinson, PhD and Superintendent of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area for the National Park Service, will talk about the upcoming 100-Year Anniversary of the National Park Service.

More info at MississippiMinute.org

Mill City Times Newsletter Archive

July 13, 2015

http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=8f6c56dbc480e00dba78e6fbe&id=874e10c300

July 6, 2015

http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=8f6c56dbc480e00dba78e6fbe&id=5022b65720

June 29, 2015

http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=8f6c56dbc480e00dba78e6fbe&id=132592137c

June 22, 2015

http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=8f6c56dbc480e00dba78e6fbe&id=5286976407

Click to read more ...

Be Heard: Weigh In on Downtown Parks & Public Spaces

Time is running out to participate in Pathways to Places, the public realm master plan being developed by the City of Minneapolis and the MPRB. They've created an innovative mapping tool for feedback that's actually kind of fun to use.

From Minneapolis CPED: Tell us about how you use downtown parks and public space. We want to know more about what you do and how you get around. This interactive map allows you to share ideas about a specific park or place, the path you take to get there, and how you’d improve the experience.

Please click here to share your thoughts…

Explanation:

The City of Minneapolis has launched a planning process for the development of the Downtown Public Realm Framework Plan. The Downtown Public Realm Framework Plan is a thematic plan, led by the City’s Department of Community Planning and Economic Development. It is a guiding policy document for the management of the pedestrian experience in key areas of the city, and is focused on guiding the enhancement of priority streets and urban spaces. This plan will be developed during the same time as the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board (MPRB) develops their Downtown Service Area Master Plan.

“A successful downtown public realm does not operate in a vacuum, and should not have boundaries congruent with publicly owned space,” said Council Member Jacob Frey. “If we expect developers and businesses to make investments that benefit the public realm (and we do), the City must be specific in vision. I am very excited to say that we are dead on track to create a framework that achieves this goal.”

The Downtown Public Realm Framework is the City’s plan to provide unified guidance to inform and coordinate the work of public and private entities that shape the public realm. The Downtown Public Realm Framework includes an inventory of existing policies, practices, and elements in the public realm. It is intended to inform and guide outcomes in capital planning, site plan review, and public/private partnership toward the coordinated enhancement of the public realm. A Public Realm Framework is a guiding policy document for the management of the Right-of-Way. The purpose of Public Realm Frameworks is the creation of a unified document for the public realm within a certain geographic area. The document will address connections, networks, assets and conditions.

“Minneapolis is on the rise. As the growth of our urban core continues, we know we need to look beyond single projects or development sites - we need to think holistically about shaping the experience of being downtown,” said City of Minneapolis Director of Long Range Planning Kjersti Monson. “If we can establish a shared vision for the public realm, and if we can ensure that every stakeholder is aware of that vision, and understands how they can to contribute to it, then we can pull together to make this the most livable downtown in America.”

The City of Minneapolis’ Downtown Public Realm Framework will run on a parallel and integrated track with the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board’s process to create a Downtown Service Area Master Plan (DSAMP). The two processes will result in separate but integrally related documents, the Downtown Public Realm Framework and the DSAMP, which will jointly create the Pathways to Places initiative, for the entire network of downtown public spaces and corridors. The Downtown Public Realm Framework and the DSAMP will each be adopted by their respective elected bodies.

Please click here to share your thoughts…

Residents invited to help plan the future of NE/SE Minneapolis Parks

Multiple projects underway to shape award-winning park system for next 20 years – and beyond!

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is undergoing what may be the most comprehensive planning effort in its 130 year history. Minneapolis residents are encouraged to get involved and help the MPRB with three distinct, yet deeply intertwined projects: Closing the Gap-Investing in our Neighborhood Parks, RecQuest, and Service Area Master Plans. Residents can get involved by attending a public meeting or subscribing to receive timely emails about the projects.

Public Meetings

From June through September, multiple public meetings will be held in each quadrant of the city to share information about the projects. Meetings will be scheduled 15-30 days in advance. A full schedule is at www.minneapolisparks.org/closingthegap. 

• June:  North Minneapolis
• June/July:  Southwest Minneapolis
• July/August:  South Minneapolis
• August/September:  Northeast and Southeast Minneapolis
  • Wednesday, August 12, 6:30-8:30 pm, Bottineau Recreation Center, 2000 Second St. NE
  • Thursday, August 13, 6:30-8:30 pm, Van Cleve Recreation Center, 901 15th Ave. SE
  • Tuesday, August 25, 6:30-8:30 pm, Luxton Recreation Center, 112 Williams Ave. SE
  • Thursday, August 27, 6:30-8:30 pm, Windom Recreation Center, 2251 NE Hayes St. (Also discussed: Waite Park and Audubon Park)
  • Thursday, September 17, 6:30-8:30 pm, Logan  Recreation Center, 690 13th Ave. NE (Also discussed: Northeast Park)
• September:  Citywide

Anyone requiring meeting modification in order to participate should contact Emily Wolfe at ewolfe@minneapolisparks.org or 612-230-6415 in advance of the meeting.

Subscribe to Receive Email Updates

Details about each project are available at www.minneapolisparks.org. To subscribe to receive timely emails about one or more of the initiatives, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/subscribe, enter your email, then select the project(s) you are interested in under the “Planning” section.

Closing the Gap – a look at the impacts deferred maintenance has had on neighborhood parks

Closing the Gap: Investing in Our Neighborhood Parks looks at the impacts that deferred maintenance – or delaying regular upkeep past the point of repair – has had on the 157 neighborhood parks in Minneapolis.

Neighborhood parks have greatest number of physical assets that require greater resources to operate, maintain and replace. These assets range from outdoor amenities such as wading pools and playgrounds to structural and property infrastructure including roofs, windows, parking lots and much more.  To sustain the current level of physical assets in the park system the MPRB would need $14 million plus inflation each year. The MPRB is currently has $5 million per year to invest in these assets, which means that from 2000 to 2015, the funding gap for neighborhood parks has grown to $111 million.

Unless the replacement and preventative maintenance costs associated with the park system’s infrastructure are addressed, the backlog and costs will continue to increase, and funding gap will grow additional $46 million from 2016-2020 (based on current funding levels).

RecQuest – an in-depth look at recreation centers

RecQuest is the MPRB’s in-depth assessment of its 47 community recreation centers. RecQuest not only considers the physical spaces within the recreation centers themselves, but also the programs, services and activities provided at the centers. The project’s goal to see if the centers are meeting our community’s current needs as well as projected needs 20-30 years into the future. It will also help identify any areas of Minneapolis where programming is not currently offered but needed.

Recognizing that both the demographics and recreation preferences of Minneapolis residents are changing, RecQuest seeks to capture not only the community’s current needs, but also their recreation needs of the future.

Master Plans – a look at the outdoor facilities within the parks

While RecQuest focuses on recreation centers, the MPRB also needs to look at the outdoor parts of a park: playgrounds, athletic fields, wading pools, sports courts and much more. The Park Board most often uses a master planning process for these large projects that span multiple neighborhoods.  Master plans are documents that use community input to create both a long-term vision and key elements of an area. The master plan typically addresses how the area will be managed and operated, and sets priorities and budget estimates for realistically setting the plan in motion.

In the next five years, Service Area Master Plans will be prepared for all five service areas (South, Downtown, Southwest, North, and Northeast). The first master plans to be initiated are the Downtown Service Area Master Plan and the South Service Area Master Plan, which is bounded by the southern and eastern city limits, I-35W, and the I-35W/I-94 downtown loop.

Fundraiser to Enable Free Dog Training for Disabled Dog Owners in Need

A dog-friendly fundraiser will help provide free dog obedience training classes to low-income disabled residents of the Minneapolis area. The “Make It Pawsible” event is slated for Thursday, Aug. 6, from 6-8 p.m. in the Waterbury Building, Room 107, 1121 Van Buren St. NE in Northeast Minneapolis.

Donations will be used to create scholarships to pay for basic dog obedience training classes at the Animal Humane Society’s Golden Valley office.  (Note: The Animal Humane Society does not offer specialized assistance-dog training. However, basic obedience training does provide a foundation for that next step.) Since a four-month weekly training series costs $285, the number of scholarships will depend on the amount of funds raised. Applications for the scholarships will be available at the fundraising event and by email (see below).

The Make It Pawsible event will feature free pizza (while supplies last), door prizes, dog treat samples, a “photo with your dog” booth and more. Raffle items will include everything from a “Shed Happens” T-shirt and pet-product gift baskets to a free dog dermatology exam.

The event has been organized by a Thrivent Action Team of volunteers led by Minneapolis resident Melinda Weir. Sponsors and raffle prize donors include Thrivent Financial, the Animal Humane Society and more than 10 local businesses and organizations that provide pet-related products and services.

For more information, email Weir at MakeItPawsible@gmail.com or call 414-232-5660. Also, visit the Facebook event page at http://bit.ly/MakeItPawsibleFB. Purchase raffle tickets in advance at http://makeitpawsible.eventbrite.com. Donate directly on the GoFundMe page at http://bit.ly/MakeItPawsible.

Executive Director Position Open at Mill City Commons

Mill City Commons (MCC) is seeking an Executive Director to partner with our board of directors in ensuring continued success for our welcoming and inclusive “village within the city”. 

Mill City Commons (MCC) was launched in 2009 as a non-profit dues-based membership organization that has since evolved into a strong, welcoming and inclusive community within a changing and non-traditional neighborhood.  MCC brings together neighbors 55+ from both sides of the downtown Minneapolis riverfront.  Its 175 curious, engaged, warm and welcoming members connect with each as they choose from a rich calendar of member-driven social, cultural, educational and health & fitness programs that help them to thrive in the homes they love.   Community engagement projects that support others in our urban neighborhoods further strengthen member connections with each other.

Learn more about us at www.millcitycommons.org … and click on the Executive Director Position Profile and Job Description link on our home page to learn more about the job and details on How to Apply.  Interested applicants should email cover letter and resume to MCCExecDirSearch@millcitycommons.org no later than August 13.

Public Hearing on Water Works Concept Design - August 5

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) will hold a public hearing on the proposed concept design for Water Works as a subarea of Mill Ruins Park within the Central Mississippi Riverfront Regional Park. The hearing will be held on Wednesday, August 5 at 6:30 pm in the Board Room of MPRB at 2117 West River Road in Minneapolis.

Since 2013, the MPRB has been collaborating with the Minneapolis Parks Foundation to prepare a refined and expanded design for the upper portion of Mill Ruins Park, an area being called Water Works in honor of the location’s history. Preparation of the Water Works concept design was performed within the community engagement process conducted for the update to the Central Riverfront Regional Park Master Plan adopted by the Board of Commissioners on April 1, 2015. The key tenets of the Water Works design were recommended for approval by the appointed Central Riverfront Community Advisory Committee and adopted into the master plan by the Board. The Water Works concept plan builds largely from the 25-year old Mill Ruin Park plan but expands the plan to the west side of the parkway, infuses greater recreational interests, clarifies complex site circulation and restoration, and like other signature locations in the Minneapolis park system, establishes a clear point of arrival, place of shelter, and visitor services. 

All are welcome to attend and provide comment on the recommendations regarding the proposed concept design.

Download the proposed concept design...

Watch the design presentation, including a 3D animation flythrough at about the 4min, 40sec mark:

Minneapolis Aquatennial Kicks Off on Wednesday, July 22

MINNEAPOLIS (July 20, 2015) — The Minneapolis Aquatennial kicks off on Wednesday through Saturday, July 25 and includes headlining events such as the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade and Target Fireworks—one of the top five annual fireworks shows in the country.

Download the full schedule...

The event, which unveiled its new look in early July, will include a jam-packed four-day lineup of events with a focus on proximity near the Mississippi River—the origins of the City of Minneapolis and historically the city’s first tie to its water-related identity.

Other events highlighting this year’s Aquatennial include the Twin Cities River Rats Aquatennial Water Ski Show on the Mississippi River between Plymouth and Broadway bridges, the Aquatennial Tennis Classic and The Salvation Army’s MOST Amazing Race presented by CenterPoint Energy beginning and ending at the Stone Arch Bridge.

New events, such as: Aquatennial CorePower Yoga presented by Go Outside with Hennepin County, Historic Aquatennial presented by Cambria, Aquatennial Ambassador Organization’s Rockin’ the Waves Dance Party and New Belgium Brewing’s Tour De Fat were all added this year to welcome all ages and abilities to take part in celebrating Minneapolis’ longstanding summer tradition.

The Minneapolis Aquatennial is free and open to the public. The two events listed below do require registration either individually or as a team.

·       Life Time Torchlight 5k: Starting at the Basilica of St. Mary and ending with a legendary post-race party, this 5k is a fun run for everyone! Registration is available online, in-person at participating retailers, and on the day of the event.

·       The Salvation Army’s MOST Amazing Race presented by CenterPoint Energy: Modeled after the famous TV show, teams race around Minneapolis and participate in a series of mental and physical challenges. Find a teammate and register today because only 100 teams can participate in the qualifying competition. The earlier you register, the more time you have to raise cash – and top fundraisers get a competitive advantage the day of the race!

Start planning your own agenda to enjoy the Minneapolis Aquatennial with this comprehensive list of events:

Wednesday, July 22

8 a.m. – 6 p.m.                     *NEW* Historic Aquatennial Presented by Cambria

Cambria Gallery on 7^th, 625 2^nd Ave. S.

Commissioned by the Hennepin History Museum, this iconic display showcases photos, costumes and documents of historical Aquatennial events.

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.                     Aquatennial Tennis Classic

Canadian Pacific Plaza, 2^nd Ave. S. & S. 5^th St.

One of the premier outdoor, urban tennis tournaments, this event features some of the best players in the area competing for a cash prize of $6,500.

12 p.m. – 2 p.m.                  Aquatennial Ambassador Organization (AAO), Meet the Queen of the Lakes Candidates

Downtown Minneapolis, City Center Atrium, 40 S. 7^th St.

Come meet the young women from across Minnesota vying to become the next Queen of the Lakes.

5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.             Loring Park Family Fun Night

Loring Park

Loring Park Family Fun Night is a family-focused event held just blocks from the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade. Activities include food trucks, pony rides, inflatables, canoe rides, a kids’ dance, carnival games, and more.

5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.             *NEW* Wilderness Inquiry Voyageur Canoe Rides at Loring Park Family Fun Night

Loring Park

Free voyageur canoeing and paddling instruction open to people of all abilities, including people with disabilities. Experienced Wilderness Inquiry guides will provide all equipment needed, ensuring a safe and fun experience for all.

7:30 p.m.                                Life Time Torchlight 5k

Hennepin Ave. from Basilica of St. Mary to Father Hennepin Bluffs Park

Grab your friends, family and running shoes and join the Life Time Torchlight 5k. It doesn’t matter if you are a dedicated runner or just a beginner because this is the party of the year that just happens to start with a run! Open to all ages and abilities. Stick around for live music, food and beverages at the post-race party.

8:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.   FLAGSHIP EVENT: CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade

Hennepin Ave. between Dunwoody College of Technology & 5^th St.

Brighten up your summer with the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade. This one-of-a-kind parade will illuminate downtown with bands, floats and fun for all ages.

Thursday, July 22

8 a.m. – 9 p.m.                     *NEW* Historic Aquatennial Presented by Cambria

Cambria Gallery on 7^th, 625 2^nd Ave. S.

(See July 22 for details)

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.                     Aquatennial Tennis Classic

Canadian Pacific Plaza, 2^nd Ave. S & S 5^th St.

(See July 22 for details)

10 a.m.                               Aquatennial Senior Alumni Association (SAA), 500 Card Tournament

James Ballentine VFW Post 246, 2916 Lyndale Ave. S.

Fun is in the cards at this annual tourney open to adults

5:30 p.m. – 6:30 pm.       *NEW* Aquatennial CorePower Yoga presented by Go Outside with Hennepin County

Target Field Station, 5^th St. N. & 5^th Ave. N.

Go Outside with Hennepin County and enjoy a great day of exercise during the Minneapolis Aquatennial through CorePower Yoga. Join us at Target Field Station on a July afternoon to take in the weather and the atmosphere that comes with the Minneapolis Aquatennial. Check-in begins at 4:30 p.m.—come early to get a spot as high attendance is expected!

6 p.m. & 8 p.m.                   Twin Cities River Rats Aquatennial Water Ski Show (Two Shows)

Mississippi River, West Bank along W. River Rd. between Broadway & Plymouth bridges

Join Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael as they battle the forces of evil for control of the Mississippi River—and eat some pizza, too! Bring a beach towel or lawn chair and enjoy this free show for the whole family!

Friday, July 24

8 a.m. – 6 p.m.                     *NEW* Historic Aquatennial Presented by Cambria

Cambria Gallery on 7^th, 625 2^nd Ave. S.

(See July 22 for details)

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.                     Aquatennial Tennis Classic

Canadian Pacific Plaza, 2^nd Ave. S & S 5^th St.

(See July 22 for details)

7 p.m.                                        *NEW* AAO Rockin’ the Waves Dance Party

Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot, 225 3^rd Ave. S.

The Rockin' the Waves Aqua Dance Party will feature the band "Rhino" and is a semi-formal event brought to you by the Aquatennial Ambassador Organization. The event includes interacting with visiting dignitaries from major U.S. festival friends of the Aquatennial and much more.

7:10 p.m.                                Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees

Target Field

Come support the Minnesota Twins as they take on the New York Yankees.

Saturday, July 25

9 a.m. – 12 p.m.                  Aquatennial Community Event: Tour de Camden

Starting at Creekview Park, 5001 Humboldt Ave. N.

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the seven neighborhoods of Camden. Food will be available after the event with historical stops along the route. The tour is presented by the Shingle Creek Neighborhood Association.  Registration begins at 9 a.m. Tour kicks off at 10 a.m.

9 a.m. – 8 p.m.                     The Salvation Army’s MOST Amazing Race presented by CenterPoint Energy

Various locations throughout Minneapolis

Modeled after the famous TV show and celebrating its 10^th year, teams race around Minneapolis and participate in a series of mental and physical challenges. Teams finish at the Stone Arch Bridge and the winning team receives a $5,000 grand prize!

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.                                    *NEW* New Belgium Brewing’s Tour De Fat

Loring Park

Tour De Fat is New Belgium Brewing’s traveling celebration of all-things bicycles. Enjoy a costumed bike parade, bike ride, on-stage entertainment, food, beverages and more. It also features a celebration of the inspirational car-for-bike swapper series in which brave souls hand over their car keys as a commitment to commute by bike.

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.                                    *NEW* Historic Aquatennial Presented by Cambria

Cambria Gallery on 7^th, 625 2^nd Ave. S.

(See July 22 for details)

11 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.       *NEW*Aquatennial Pre-Fireworks Activities

West River Parkway along the Mississippi River

Enjoy a day of fun leading up to the annual Target Fireworks festivities. Some of the events include: Kites, Butterflies & Mary Poppins with Chanhassen Dinner Theatres (11 a.m.-1 p.m.), donate to the Aquatennial Blood Drive with Memorial Blood Centers (11 a.m.-5 p.m.), meet local heroes, try on gear and see an air boat, fire truck and smokehouse up close with the Minneapolis Fire Department (3 p.m.-10 p.m.), live music (6 p.m.-10 p.m.), food trucks, treats and more.

11 a.m. – 10 p.m.               Twin Cities Carifest

West River Parkway between Plymouth Ave. & Broadway bridges

For 22 years, Twin Cities Carifest has been the premier Caribbean Festival featuring Caribbean food, music, arts, crafts, and a traditional carnival parade (4 p.m.) with colorful costumes and dance. Held along the banks of the Mississippi River, you can see the Minneapolis Aquatennial Target Fireworks!  

12 p.m. – 8 p.m.                  Aquatennial Community Event: Midtown Phillips Festival

Stewart Park, 2700 block of 12^th Ave. S.

A free, family and multicultural event showcasing local talent and food, featuring free carnival games, pony rides, storytelling, puppet shows, two stages with live music and a soccer exhibition.

4 p.m. – 6 p.m.                     AAO, Queen of the Lakes Coronation

Ted Mann Concert Hall, University of Minnesota West Bank

The Coronation of the Aquatennial Ambassadors will be held at the Ted Mann Concert Hall on the West Bank of the University of Minnesota where the 2016 Queen of the Lakes, Aquatennial Princesses, Commodore and Captains will be announced.

6:10 p.m.                                Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees

Target Field

Come support the Minnesota Twins as they take on the New York Yankees.

10 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.       FLAGSHIP EVENT: Target Fireworks

West River Parkway along the Mississippi River

One of the largest annual firework shows in the country. The Target Fireworks will light up the Minneapolis sky with a spectacular pyrotechnic display.

About the Minneapolis Aquatennial

The Official Civic Celebration of the City of Minneapolis offers outstanding entertainment and activities in the City of Lakes for all ages. It is managed and produced by the Minneapolis Downtown Council. The festival is sponsored by Target, CenterPoint Energy, U.S. Bank, Zeus Jones, Life Time Fitness, Xcel Energy, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minnesota Twins, Minneapolis Recycles, City of Minneapolis, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, K102 and Go 96.3. For more information, please visit www.Aquatennial.com or call (612) 376-7669.

Chapter Two of the Crown Roller Mill Story

Above - 1985 - West Front, Looking East - Crown Roller Mill

The redevelopment of the Crown Roller Mill block was a major accomplishment and one of many important turning points in the redevelopment of the Mill District.

By Ann Calvert, Principal Project Coordinator, City of Minneapolis

By the time of the October 1983 Crown Roller Mill fire, the City’s redevelopment agency, the Minneapolis Community Development Agency (MCDA), had started its work to redevelop the riverfront and thus played an active role in the post-fire redevelopment of the Crown. (The MCDA was later folded into the City’s Community Planning and Economic Development Department.) As groundwork, the geographic area that includes the Crown had been included in the Industry Square Redevelopment Project when it was created in 1973, and the original Mills District Plan had been approved in January of 1983.

After participating in the effort to save the Crown Roller Mill from demolition after the fire, the MCDA selected a firm called Hayber (Howard Bergerud and Greg Hayes) to develop the Crown and the rest of the block. MCDA acquired the Crown property along with the other portions of the block not already owned by Hayber and then sold the assembled property to the developer in 1985. The assistance provided to the project included revenue bond financing, a federal grant and tax increment financing.

The entire block was dubbed the “Whitney Mill Quarter,” the components of which included the conversion of the former Standard Mill into the Whitney Hotel (now the Whitney Historic Residences), the conversion of the Ceresota grain elevator into the Ceresota offices and the rebuilding of the fire-damaged Crown Roller Mill into the office building you see today. The development also included the underground service facility shared by the block and both the upper and lower plazas. The various components were completed between 1985 and 1988.

If you look closely at the outside of the Crown, you can see the faint line where new replacement brick was added above the lower parts of the walls that had survived the fire. The mansard roof is entirely new, but replicates a mansard roof that had originally existed on the building. The interior of the building (including the lower parking levels) is basically a new building that was constructed within the rebuilt exterior walls.

The other components of the block also presented major rehabilitation challenges. The Standard Mill had spent some time during its years of decline as an animal rendering plant and “stunk to high heaven.” The Ceresota project required the removal of the interior dividing walls that created the vertical grain silos (without the outside walls collapsing), the insertion of floors and the use of an interior skylit atrium and carefully placed windows to get some light into the windowless structure.

Above: Second Street South looking downriver from just upriver of Portland; General Mills elevators to left in distance, c. mid-1980s

At the time the block was developed, the area around it was still extremely rough and had little infrastructure. Second Street was filled with rail lines and wasn’t a true street at all, so the MCDA worked with Public Works to start creating a street grid for the Mill District. By that time, the last area property that was still served by rail was a pair of General Mills grain elevators at Second Street and Tenth Avenue. At the end of the harvest season, the line of rail cars that came to fill the elevators with oats extended all the way down Second to in front of the planned Whitney Hotel. Another way the MCDA assisted the Whitney Mill Quarter development was to invest almost $9 million to acquire those grain elevators so that the rail service could be stopped and Second Street could be built by the time the hotel opened.

The MCDA once again stepped in to save the Crown Roller Mill in 1991. The Crown had opened as offices at a low point in the real estate economy, and the area around it, while improving, was still considered questionable. The building had not been able to secure tenants and was sinking under the burden of real estate taxes and debt payments. The MCDA’s lease was expiring, so it agreed to move its offices to the Crown in exchange for advantageous rent terms and has remained an anchor tenant since then.

Ann Calvert, is Principal Project Coordinator with the City of Minneapolis and has been a key player in the redevelopment of the Mill District.

Funny Money! Theater of Public Policy to Enlighten-up the Conversation About Funding for Parks

Join us for the next Riverfront Vitality Forum - Finding the Green for Parks, 6:30pm, July 23, 2015, at Open Book - Sponsored in part by Mill City Times

Minneapolis, Minn. – Even for America’s number one park system, money doesn’t grow on trees. The  Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board has ambitious plans to expand parkland, especially along the Upper Riverfront, where new opportunities to connect North and Northeast Minneapolis the Mississippi River are being created. Through an info-taining blend of interview and improve, Finding the Green for Parks: A Conversation with Park Board Superintendent Jayne Miller and the Theater of Public Policy, aims to enlighten the audience about the range of funding models for capital investment and long-term maintenance and operations.

Seating is limited, register here...

One of MRP’s ongoing Riverfront Vitality Forums, Finding the Green for Parks will take place at 6:30pm, July 23, 2015, at Open Book in Minneapolis. Tickets are $5 and pre-registration via Eventbrite is encouraged. The event is co-sponsored by CenterPoint Energy, Mississippi Watershed Management Organization, Mill City Times and the Minneapolis Parks Foundation.

The Theater of Public Policy has earned a national reputation for bringing intelligent humor to droll-up otherwise dour, and sometimes divisive, issues. Their work has included six months embedded at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, using humor, surprise, and participation to adapt the culture to a changing audience. They’ve also performed for the University of Minnesota, Minnesota Public Radio, and numerous state and local agencies.

“In Minneapolis, our parks define who we are as a people and as a city. With RiverFirst and the Above the Falls Master Plan, we have prioritized new parks on the Upper Riverfront as the leading edge for economic and ecological revitalization,” says Kathleen Boe, Executive Director of the Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership, MRP hosts quarterly Riverfront Vitality Forums to daylight dialogue about vital riverfront issues.

Superintendent Jayne Miller took the helm of the Minneapolis Park Board in 2010, shortly after the Park Board’s purchase of the 12-acre Scherer property and when early visioning for Upper Riverfront parks development was already underway. During her tenure, the Park Board has continued to expand its land acquisition along the Upper Riverfront.

The Park Board has also sustained the RiverFirst vision, by making progress on four priority projects, including restoration of Hall’s Island on the Scherer property and investment in riverfront trail development. In partnership with the Minneapolis Parks Foundation, the Park Board is also advancing the Water Works project along with planning for the 26^th Avenue North overlook and connector.

The Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership is a state-chartered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that facilitates and supports coordinated revitalization of the Mississippi Riverfront in the City of Minneapolis. MRP brings diverse community partners together to shape a vital role for the Mississippi River in enhancing the economic, social and natural life of the City of Minneapolis and to ensure that this development benefits all segments of the community.

Seating is limited, register here...

Today at City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting

4:30PM - Room 317

The 3 projects below are on the agenda, download site plans:

Thresher Square Project (36MB)

Superior Plating Project (56MB)

316 6^th Ave N Apartment Project (25MB)

Harsh Words for Graco by MPRB

The development proposal from Graco for the commercial portion of the future Sherer/Halls Island Park was met with a fair amount of scorn last week at the July 1 Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board meeting.  See the video above.

Download the Site Plan, will illustrations... (9MB)

NEWS COVERAGE OF THE ONGOING GRACO MPRB SQUABBLE

PARK BOARD DUMPS ON GRACO PROPOSAL, KEEPS IT ALIVE FOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS

PROPOSAL AT PARK BOARD MAY AUTHORIZE PARK DEVELOPMENT BY GRACO

JUDGE GRANTS CONDEMNATION FOR GRACO EASEMENT

MINNEAPOLIS PARK BOARD APPROVES GRACO EASEMENT FOR TRAIL ACCESS

GRACO EASEMENT PROPOSAL HEADS TO MINNEAPOLIS PARK BOARD

PARK BOARD VOTES TO CONDEMN NORTHEAST LAND IF GRACO DEAL CAN'T BE REACHED

GRACO IS UNFAIRLY HOLDING TRAIL HOSTAGE

Mill City High Readying to Open Sept. 8

Mill City High School, the new public charter school located in downtown Minneapolis, has cleared two major
hurdles — enrollment and renovation funding — and is readying to open for the first day of school on Sept. 8.

Located in the education wing of the First Covenant Church, 810 South 7th Street, the school continues to accept ninth and tenth grade students and, on a limited basis, eleventh graders. "Now's the time to reserve your spot,” says John Miller, the school’s start-up director.

“The word's getting out and student numbers climb daily. An excellent, free high school option downtown is an attractive option for families—we have a diverse group enrolled from all over the metro."

Renovations begin in July with a completion date of mid-August. The school start date was pushed back to Sept. 8 to allow time for the City to do inspections and issue a certificate of occupancy.

Miller, who completes his role as start-up director on June 30, will assume the positions of Mill City High academic dean and social studies teacher. "We've hired a really fine group of educators—teachers and administrative staff—who are excited about implementing our program. We’re looking forward to working with the founding group of students to forge a school culture based on mastery, motivation, and joyful learning."

The school’s next information event is June 30, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., at the school. Students, families, and community members are invited to meet school board, faculty, and staff members.

The First Covenant Church facility is 70,000 square feet and situated on a city bus line and just one block from a light rail hub. Mill City will be located in a space separate from but connected to the church sanctuary. The
education building that will house the school includes a commercial kitchen, gymnasium, and proscenium stage.

Families are encouraged to apply online at www.millcityhigh.org. 

FREE Bike Helmet Giveaway Saturday June 27 at the Mill City Farmers Market

WHAT: FREE Bike Helmet Giveaway by the American Academy of Neurology

WHERE: Mill City Farmers Market, Minneapolis, across from Guthrie Theater

WHEN: Saturday, June 27, 2015, 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Arrive early as quantities are limited.

Get a FREE bike helmet! The American Academy of Neurology, the world’s largest association of neurologists, and the largest trade association in Minnesota, will give away and fit 1,000 bike helmets on Saturday, June 27, 2015, in an effort to raise awareness of brain safety to help prevent head injuries in Minnesota. The event will take place at the Mill City Farmers Market and starts at 8:00 a.m. Plan on arriving early as quantities are limited!

Enter the Mississippi Minute Film Festival

2^ND ANNUAL/MISSISSIPPI MINUTE FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS

60-Second Film Contest: presented by the Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership

Entry Deadline September 15, 2015

WHAT: Create and enter your own One Minute Film about the Mississippi River in Minneapolis.

Show us your vision showcasing an appreciation for—or the future potential of—the urban riverfront in Minneapolis. Make us laugh, make us cry, astound us—inform, energize and inspire—all in 60 seconds!

WHERE: For the competition, the Mississippi River has been divided into four categories:

• River Gorge: Ford Dam to Washington Ave Bridge
• Downtown Riverfront: Washington Ave Bridge to Plymouth Bridge
• River North: Plymouth Bridge to Lowry Bridge
• Upper Harbor: Lowry Bridge to City Border

WHY: To highlight the magic of the Mississippi. Films will be judged by a panel of experts.

Awards premiered and announced at the Partnership’s annual event, the Minneapolis Riverfront Summit, on Monday, October 26, at the Mill City Museum at 6:00 p.m.

CRITERIA: Originality applauded. For full terms and conditions, file formats and “How to Submit”, see www.mississippiminute.org; Facebook: www.facebook.com/minneapolisriverfrontpartnership;

Twitter: www.twitter.com/mpls_riverfront.

Entries must be received ONLINE by end of day, 9/15/15.

WHO: The Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership seeks to raise awareness of the Mississippi River, one of America’s greatest rivers, a natural wonder and a national park. Revitalization has helped reclaim portions of the Minneapolis Riverfront, but much of it is still inaccessible and in places virtually invisible.

AWARDS & JUDGES

Awards will be given in each Category (Best of Category ;) plus a Viewer’s Choice Award and Best of Show Award. Judges to be announced.