Kim Eslinger
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612-321-8040
kim@millcitymedia.org

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Associate Editor

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Columnist / Non-Profits
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Small Business Reporter
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History Columnist
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Doug Verdier
River Matters

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Covering life, work, and play in the Historic Mill District and Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront neighborhoods. Have an opinion, local news or events to share?  Contact us.

Entries by Kim Eslinger (4199)

Sunday
Aug232015

Week 16 at the 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22 was Pollinator Day at the Market. The UMN Bee Squad/Bee Lab and Pollinate MN were on hand to share info on their work with interested shoppers.  Regular vendors who can also answer your bee-related questions include Worker B and Ames Farm.

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Below, Worker B offers an array of honeys, candles, bees wax, clothing and personal products.  You can also find them in the Northrup King Building.

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The Loft Literary Center turns 40 this year and brought their party to the Market. Look for a separate post on The Loft later this week on our Farmers Market blog. 

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Valspar has been a super supporter of not only the Market, but other nonprofit organizations in the neighborhood. They brought a lot of fun on Saturday with a booth featuring energetic staff, giveaways for kids and adults, face painting and shopping bags. Look for a separate post on Valspar later this week on our Farmers Market blog. 

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The Zestars from Ames Farm arrived this week.

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Seven Songs Organic Farm returned with their wonderful ginger.

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Wild Run Salmon is back from what I hear was a wild fishing adventure.

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

I just had to get a picture of this mom - she struck me as the quintessential Market shopper.  Carrying both a MFMC Membership tote and market basket, wearing a pollinator T-shirt and including her son in the shopping experience.  Love it!  :)

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Of course Market founder Brenda Langton shops here, too.  Below, we ran into her toting around a watermelon the size of a baby hippo for her Spoonriver restaurant. 

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Every wonder what hazel nuts look like when they're growing on the plant?  Well - here you go.

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The goat!

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 22, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Saturday
Aug222015

NCED's Sip of Science Series Returns September 9

Great news! National Center for Earth-Surface Dynamics (NCED) will resume their monthly Sip of Science series on Wednesday, September 9, at the Aster Cafe.  :)

September Sip of Science - Ask me about my mussels! The relationship between sediment and native river mussels in Minnesota

Kelly MacGregor, Macalester College
September 9 5:30 pm
River Room, Aster Cafe, 125 SE Main Street

RSVP for Sip of Science

Native freshwater mussels are an important part of river ecosystems. Individuals can live for more than 50 years, filtering water for nutrients and stabilizing riverbed sediment in some places. However, widespread Kelly MacGregor collecting mussels during a snorkel survey. Photo credit: Macalester Collegehabitat Kelly MacGregor collecting mussels during a snorkel survey. Photo credit: Macalester Collegedestruction, pollution, land-use change and deteriorating water quality can impact mussel populations. Join us as Macalester College professor Kelly MacGregor describes a current collaborative study between Macalester College, the University of Minnesota’s St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, and River Life that investigates the impacts of riverbed and suspended sediment on mussel diversity, health and happiness. The most recent portion of the research involved snorkeling four rivers (the Snake River, the Chippewa River, the Cottonwood River, and Le Sueur Rivers) this past summer. Mussel shells and stories will be shared!  

Kelly MacGregor collecting mussels during a snorkel survey. Photo credit: Macalester College 

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Kelly MacGregor is a professor and chair of the Geology Department at Macalester College in St. Paul. She has a B.A. in Geology from Williams College, and a Ph.D. in Earth Sciences from UC Santa Cruz.  She is a geomorphologist with a focus on glacial erosion in alpine landscapes, and has done both numerical modeling of glacial erosion and field work on alpine glaciers in Alaska, British Columbia and Montana. Professor MacGregor is currently working on several projects, including environmental and climate change since the Last Glacial Maximum in Glacier National Park using lake sediments, and the dynamics of sediment transport on the St. Croix and Minnesota Rivers in Minnesota. She and her husband, also a geologist, live in St. Paul with their two kids and a motley crew of pets.

A SIP OF SCIENCE bridges the gap between science and culture in a setting that bridges the gap between brain and belly.  Food, beer, and learning are on the menu in a happy hour forum that puts science in context through storytelling.

No cover; food and drink available for purchase.

Friday
Aug212015

RSVP for The Encore August 26 Open House

You're invited to The Encore Open House for an opportunity to preview Penthouse and Townhome layouts, customizable finish packages, as well as learn about the ability to reserve these exclusive units. Light appetizers and drinks will be provided, along with exclusive access to The Encore development and marketing team.  The event is being held from 4:30pm – 6:30pm at The Aloft Hotel – W XYZ Bar. Please RSVP to Leasing@MPLSEncore.com, attendance is limited.

      

     

Thursday
Aug202015

MPRB has a Homegrown Minneapolis Food Council Position Opening

Via an August 20 Minneapolis Park and Rec Board e-newsletter:

The MPRB is seeking to fill a vacant community position on the Homegrown Minneapolis Food Council. The Homegrown Minneapolis Food Council brings together key partners from local government, area businesses, community organizations, non-profits, and residents to build a healthy, local food system.

Learn more

Thursday
Aug202015

Zen Box Izakaya Ramen Attack! Returns September 27

Zen Box Izakaya's popular Ramen Attack! returns to the Mill City Museum trainshed on Sunday, September 27, 1:00pm - 6:00pm.

Mill City Museum is partnering with Zen Box to celebrate the restaurant’s fourth year anniversary and benefit the Children’s Cancer Research Fund. The event includes ramen tasting featuring Zen Box Chef John Ng and world-renowned ramen chefs, beer, cooking demos by local chefs, music and Japanese cultural performances. Net proceeds from food and beverage sales will benefit the Children’s Cancer Research Fund.

Tuesday
Aug182015

CenterPoint Energy to hold an Informational Meeting August 19 at Pizza Luce

Project Status Update            Minneapolis - 4th Street

On Tuesday, September 8th, 2015, CenterPoint Energy is scheduled                             to begin a ten week long natural gas pipeline project from 2nd Avenue N.                       to Marquette Avenue S. along 4th Street in Downtown Minneapolis.

For details on how CenterPoint Energy plans to coordinate this                             project, please attend our informational meeting tomorrow,                          Wednesday, August 19 at 3:00 p.m. at Pizza Luce located at                                  119 North 4th Street.

Please come with questions to learn more about this upcoming project.               Refreshments will be served!

4th Street Project
Sunday
Aug162015

Week 15 at the 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15 was Immigrant Farmer Day at the Market.  I picked up a beautiful variety of peppers at the Minnesota Food Association/Big River Farms booth.  Big River Farms is a program of Minnesota Food Association (MFA), whose mission is to build a sustainable food system based on social, economic and environmental justice through education, training and partnerships. Currently 13 farms are enrolled in the Big River Farms training program, representing 8 different cultures.

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) promotes environmentally sound, socially beneficial and economically prosperous management of the world's forests by setting standards for responsible forest management. You can choose responsibly-grown forest products by looking for the FSC logo on wood and paper products. Visitors to their booth got to spin the wheel for a free product, and add their thoughts to the message board on what they love about forests.

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Love these new salt bowls from Christy Wetzig Ceramics.

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Below, rolling pins from Crookedwood - the tiger maple is my favorite.

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

A budding photographer - love it! :)

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The first pears of the season from Ames Farm - so good!

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

When you need to get around the Market quickly...

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Sameh Wadi of Saffron Restaurant was the guest chef for the Mill City Cooks demo. He prepared an Heirloom Tomato and Melon Salad and also signed copies of his book The New Mediterranean Table.

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

You might recognize Zero Waste volunteer and MCFM Board Member Kathy Klink. Kathy discussed composting with the cooking demo audience.

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Fun soap shapes from Olsen Naturals.

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The goat!

August 15, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Sunday
Aug162015

Start the Weekend With a DMNA-sponsored Yoga Classes at Gold Medal Park

Week 2 of Yoga at Gold Medal Park saw participation almost double, with 48 neighbors attending. Kudos to Claudia Kittock and Joan Bennett for launching this program.

As I was heading over the Farmers Market Saturday morning I crossed paths with a number of men and women carrying yoga mats and towels and I knew exactly where they heading - to the second of six free yoga classes sponsored by the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA) at Gold Medal Park. Attendance doubled over the first week!

Yoga at Gold Medal Park

While geared towards beginners, all yogis are welcome to these weekly 8:00a Saturday sessions. Please join us next Saturday morning! Plan to arrive 5 - 10 minutes before class to sign in, meet the instructor and get settled in for an hour of "you" time.  :) 

Yoga at Gold Medal Park

Yoga at Gold Medal Park

An added bonus to this class is that there's plenty of room to spread out.  Anyone who's been in an overpacked, confined class knows how distracting and uncomfortable it is to worry about touching the person next to you.

Yoga at Gold Medal Park

Saturday
Aug152015

CenterPoint Energy Project Status Update for Downtown Minneapolis

MN Limited, LLC. and Michels Corporation, two authorized CenterPoint Energy contractors, will continue installing natural gas pipeline in the following locations:

2nd Street N., from 2nd Avenue N. to 1st Avenue N.:
• Please anticipate intermittent driving lane closures along 2nd Street N. in the areas of construction.
• The parking lane is closed at the southeast corner of 2nd Avenue N. and 2nd Street N.
• The right turn lane is closed from 2nd Avenue N. to 2nd Street N.
• The right turn lane is closed from 2nd Street N. to 1st Avenue N.
• Construction is anticipated to continue through Labor Day, weather permitting.

Near the intersection of 2nd Street N. and Hennepin Avenue:
• One northbound Hennepin Avenue lane is closed at the intersection.
• The east sidewalk and bike lane along Hennepin Avenue is closed.
• Construction is anticipated to continue through Labor Day, weather permitting.

Please visit our website often to receive project updates, traffic alerts and any anticipated road or lane closures.  For further information, please contact Ashley Osteraas at 612-321-5546 or Ashley.Osteraas@centerpointenergy.com. Thank you.

Friday
Aug142015

Northern Lights.mn presents Alma Lights Events in August and September at Restaurant Alma

These events are brought to us by Northern Lights.mn, a roving, collaborative, interactive media-oriented arts agency from the Twin Cities for the world. It presents innovative art in the public sphere, both physical and virtual, focusing on artists creatively using technology, both old and new, to engender new relations between audience and artwork and more broadly between citizenry and their built environment.

Aaron Dysart, Alma Lights project proposal. 

Join us on Wednesday, August 19, 6:00 - 7:30pm, for an update of 12 artists' in process work on Alma Lights: Laura Bigger, Aaron Dysart, James Garrett Junior, Jess Hirsch, Ifrah Mansour, Wil Natzel, Molly Reichert + Sean Higgins, Robin Schwartzman, Piotr Szyhalski, Peter Haakon Thompson, JoAnn Verburg

Alma Lights is a temporary arts hub in partnership with Restaurant Alma that will support a range of artist installations at the Alma building (528-530 University Ave SE, Minneapolis) throughout the summer, prior to Alma’s upcoming expansion. Read more about the project, including artists' concepts, here.

Alma lights opens Wednesday, September 16th, 7-11pm with a ticketed pre-opening reception with Restaurant Alma at 5pm. Food and drink will be available for ticket holders.

Other viewing hours: Friday, September 18, 9pm – midnight; Saturday, September 20, noon – 7pm; Sunday, September 21, noon – 5pm.

Want to help out?
Want to be a part of this temporary art space? We need volunteers to help staff Alma Lights during its open viewing hours. Email ady@northern.lights.mn if you're interested.

Friday
Aug142015

Franklin Avenue Bridge Construction Update

Generic Save the Date AB banner

Visit us at Open Streets this Sunday

The Franklin Avenue Bridge public information team will be at this Sunday's Open Streets Minneapolis event. This is your opportunity to learn more and ask any questions you might have about the project.

The event: Open Streets Minneapolis on Franklin Avenue
The day and time: From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, August 16
Where we will be: The Franklin Avenue Bridge project will be near 27th Avenue. Look for the big orange Hennepin County public works truck.

More information about the event is available on the Open Streets Minneapolis website.

Project information updates

Cofferdams sealed last weekend
Last Saturday a number of concrete trucks rolled into the construction area, allowing for crews to seal the first two cofferdams in the river. Crews will now temporarily drain the water within the structure and conduct concrete repairs to areas of the bridge piers normally below water level.

Continuing work and ongoing closures
•The contractor is working on a platform to restore concrete below the bridge deck.
•West River Parkway road and trail remain closed at Franklin Avenue Bridge through October 2015. View detour map.
•The Lower East River Parkway trail is closed between the East River Flats (University of Minnesota Boathouse) and Cecil Street while crews restore concrete below the bridge deck.
 
Being safe around the work zone 

Thank you for slowing down and paying attention in work zones. Staying alert and dedicating your full attention to driving keeps you and our crews safe.
 
Contact information
Hotline: 888-474-8929
Email: franklinbridge@hennepin.us
Project website

Thursday
Aug132015

Sign Up for a Short Volunteer Shift to Help Open Streets Roll into Downtown and Get a Free 2015 Open Streets Mpls T-shirt

Via an August 13 e-newsletter from the City of Minneapolis:

For first time in Downtown, Minneapolis residents will have the opportunity to explore and enjoy their neighborhood streets without the presence of motorized traffic. Join us in bringing together local businesses, families and neighbors to bike, walk, socialize, play and shop in a car-free environment on Washington and 1st Avenue, August 23, 2015 11:00am - 5:00pm.

Sign up for a short volunteer shift to help Open Streets roll into Downtown and get a free 2015 Open Streets Mpls t-shirt! At least 80 volunteers are needed to power the inaugural Downtown Open Streets. Volunteers are a crucial part of keeping these events safe and fun. So come be a part of the magic and help transform downtown into a biking and walking oasis! Learn more and sign up for one of the many great volunteer opportunities that support Downtown Open Streets here.

Thanks to all our volunteers that make Open Streets Mpls possible. See you on the Street!

Open Streets is an initiative of the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition, presented by the Center for Prevention at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota and co-sponsored by the City of Minneapolis.

Open Streets events bring together local businesses, families, and neighbors to bike, walk, socialize, play and shop in their communities in a car-free environment.

Want to Volunteer?
http://www.openstreetsmpls.org/os_general_volunteer

Thursday
Aug132015

A Successful 2015 Mill District National Night Out Party

Thanks to months of planning and the efforts of a hardworking group of volunteers led by Cynthia Kriha, last week's Mill District National Night Out (NNO) party was a huge success. This year's attendance was estimated at 525.

New this year was a kid's play area, which speaks to the growing number of young families in the neighborhood.

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

During the party, $438 was raised for People Serving People as part of the Dollar$ for Diaper$ drive.

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

The Rich Lewis Band provided perfect background music for the event.

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

And of course, plenty of tasty food and drinks!

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

Mill District Block Party - National Night Out 2015

Many thanks for all everyone who made the event a success. See you all at the next NNO - August 2, 2016!

Wednesday
Aug122015

Vote For Your Favorite Green Spaces To Win 2015 MDID Greening & Public Realm Awards

MINNEAPOLIS (August 10, 2015) — Help your favorite green spaces in Downtown Minneapolis get recognized through the 6th Annual Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District (MDID) Greening & Public Realm Awards.

The Greening Awards, an MDID initiative since 2010, celebrate outstanding examples of greening and placemaking that improve public space in Downtown Minneapolis. Winners are selected by public vote at MinneapolisDID.com/GreeningAwards. The vote will be open Aug. 10 through Aug. 24.
 
This year, 35 unique finalists selected through an interactive public nomination process were divided into 12 categories based on the project’s characteristics and size. Among the finalists selected were 17 new nominees—a sign of the growing diversity of greening in the downtown area—as well as nine past winners. Eight of last year’s 11 winners are nominated again this year, including five-time winners Loring Greenway and Target Plaza South Entry.

“Greening in the public realm is essential to creating a vibrant and thriving downtown. We as a community have put a great emphasis on sustaining and building upon our green spaces in downtown Minneapolis,” said Steve Cramer, President & CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council and Downtown Improvement District. “The Greening Awards help us celebrate these continued efforts, and we hope residents, employees and visitors alike will vote to help give acknowledgement to these deserving spaces—large and small.”

This year’s vote also includes a new category that focuses on downtown neighborhoods. Greening is an important aspect of every community, and this year’s Greening Awards will acknowledge the area of downtown that has produced the best greening according to the public.

Winners will receive a commemorative Greening Award created by Wood from the Hood, a Minneapolis-based company that reclaims discarded trees from urban neighborhoods and creates high-quality wood products. Each award will display the year the award was issued.

The MDID Greening Awards are intended to inspire all to work toward making downtown greener and more vibrant. The MDID’s mission through the Greening Awards is to encourage all downtown businesses and organizations to participate in the greening effort.

The public is encouraged to vote by visiting  www.MinneapolisDID.com/GreeningAwards and clicking on the interactive vote link. Each category will showcase the finalists along with a photo of each location for easy viewing and identification. This year’s 12 categories include the following finalists:

Small Green Space Activation
·        IDS Center PARKLOT presented by Bank of America*
·        Piazza on the Mall

Small Green Space
·        Assisi on 9th Park
·        Target Plaza South Entry

Large Green Space Activation
·        Convention Center Plaza
·        Government Plaza
·        Peavey Plaza
·        Target Field Station

Large Green Space
·        Elliot Park*
·        Loring Greenway
·        Loring Park*
·        Triangle Park

Façade Greening
·        500 S. Washington*
·        5th Street Towers
·        Kenosha Building
·        Seven Event Destination

Open Space Green Infrastructure
·        MCTC Plaza Rain Garden
·        Target Field Station

Outdoor Café
·        8th Street Grill
·        Dakota Jazz Club
·        Red Cow*

Streetscape Greening
·        222 Hennepin
·        Central Lutheran Church*
·        The Foundry Home Goods*

Streetscape Green Infrastructure
·        5th Avenue Lofts/Security Warehouse*
·        American Academy of Neurology
·        RiverStation Condos*
·        Spoon & Stable*

Entryway Greening
·        Aloft Minneapolis
·        Cynthia Froid Group*
·        Goldberg Bail Bonds*
·        Martin Patrick 3*

Public Realm Improvement
·        5th Avenue Lofts/Security Warehouse Lofts*
·        Central Lutheran Church*
·        Convention Center Plaza
·        IDS Center PARKLOT presented by Bank of America*
·        Soccer Field at Elliot Park*
·        Spoon & Stable*
·        The Foundry Home Goods*

Best Neighborhood
·        Elliot Park*
·        Loring Park*
·        Mill District*
·        North Loop*

*-New Nominee in this category

The public is encouraged to not only vote on a winner for each category but to also celebrate greening on social media year-round. Send your greening photos to @MinneapolisDID on Facebook, Twitter and  Instagram using the hashtag #GreenAwardsMpls.
 
For more information, visit www.minneapolisdid.com/greeningawards or log onto  Facebook, Twitter or  Instagram searching @MinneapolisDID.

About the Minneapolis Downtown Council:
Founded in 1955, and one of the oldest central business districts in the nation, the Minneapolis Downtown Council (MDC) is a membership-based entity that works to create, preserve, and enhance a vital and engaging experience for the people who visit, work, shop and live in Downtown Minneapolis. The MDC’s collaborative developments of Intersections: The Downtown 2025 Plan was designed to help downtown businesses, community leaders and citizens build on downtown assets and implement future goals. For more information, please visit http://www.downtownmpls.com/.

About the Downtown Improvement District:
Founded in early 2009, after more than five years of formative planning and advocacy by the downtown business community, the Minneapolis DID delivers higher levels of service to make downtown cleaner, greener, safer and more vibrant throughout a 120-block area, as is the case with most Business Improvement Districts. For more information, visit http://www.minneapolisdid.com/.

Tuesday
Aug112015

A Loft “40 Over 40” Event on the Stone Arch Bridge with Rachel Gabriel

“Inspired by Minneapolis: A Writers on the Town Tour and Workshop” 
 
Meet Rachel Gabriel—local writer and teaching artist—on the Stone Arch Bridge for a walking tour and writing workshop on Saturday, August 22 from 1:00-2:30 P.M. Meet beneath the blue balloon, and bring a notebook, pen or pencil, and your creative curiosity. A $5 registration fee is an investment in the future of The Loft Literary Center. Details at https://www.loft.org/events/40_for_40/
 
We’ll start with a view of St. Anthony Falls and end at The Mill City Ruins, where we’ll practice the writerly skills of observation and sensory exploration through written words and images.
 
Whether you leave with a poem or paragraphs, drawings or word fragments, “Inspired by Minneapolis,” is an opportunity to be present to a particular place, and your moment in it.
 
Children who are inclined to write and draw with a bit of encouragement are welcome to attend. 

Minneapolis is home to The Loft Literary Center—the United State’s largest nonprofit center of its kind—which will celebrate its 40th Birthday with 40 writing events over 40 hours, August 21-22, 2015. Registration details and more information. 
Monday
Aug102015

Celebrate Summer at the First Annual SotaFest on August 25!

ParadeStadium

Celebrate summer at the first annual SotaFest!

Kindred the Family Soul headlines an afternoon of music and fun in picturesque Parade Stadium August 29

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is excited to partner in the first annual SotaFest happening August 29at Parade Stadium, located at 400 Kenwood Parkway. Doors open at 1 pm, music starts at 2 pm and festivities will continue throughout the afternoon framed underneath one of the best skyline views in the city.

A portion of the proceeds collected helps create opportunities for kids in Minneapolis parks by funding scholarships for youth programming.

“We appreciate having the opportunity to partner with People for Parks, 89.9 KMOJ and Bachelor Boy Entertainment in putting on another great summertime event in Minneapolis while also helping more of our city’s youth enjoy park activities,” said Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Assistant Superintendent Nick Williams.

Nationally-renowned act Kindred the Family Soul headlines a lineup studded with dynamic performers, including Church and the Dirty Thought, Mike De’Cole, Chris Lawrence, Audiyo Element, Hustle Rose and MPLS.

Food trucks and local product vendors will also be on hand.

SotaFest is an 18+ event. Advance tickets are available onlinefor $25 and at the door for $35. Concert-goers can park for $5 at Dunwoody College across the street from Parade Stadium.

Volunteers for SotaFest are still needed. Volunteer assignments include entrance gate monitors/ticket takers, parking crew, ticket sales, stage monitors, and more.

Each volunteer will receive entry to the concert and one additional ticket. View and sign-up for volunteer assignments and shifts here: http://www.SignUpGenius.com/go/20F0449AFAC22A6FB6-sotafest or email Nicole Zappa at nzappa@minneapolisparks.org with questions about volunteering.

Event Details

Who:Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, People for Parks, 89.9 KMOJ-FM and Bachelor Boy Entertainment

What: An afternoon of music, food and dancing headlined by nationally-renowned act Kindred the Family Soul

When: Saturday, August 29. Doors open at 1 pm; music starts at 2 pm

Where: Parade Stadium

Why: Proceeds help fund youth programming scholarships for Minneapolis park activities

Cost: $25 in advance; $35 at the door

Sunday
Aug092015

DMNA-sponsored Yoga Classes at Gold Medal Park Kicked off August 8

The first of six free yoga classes sponsored by the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA) took place August 8 at Gold Medal Park.  While geared towards beginners, all yogis are welcome to these weekly 8:00a Saturday sessions. I've been practicing for two years and found it to be a relaxing start to the weekend.

DMNA Board Member Claudia Kittock explained, "Yoga in the Park began with a brainstorming session between DMNA and Emanuel Housing. Our first class attracted almost 30 people from all across downtown. The teacher, Haley Lasche, did a wonderful job of welcoming each student and leading us through an hour of beginning yoga."

Above, instructor Haley Lasche, Claudia Kittock, and DMNA Outreach and Program Coordinator, Joan Bennett.

Please join us next Saturday morning! Plan to arrive 5 - 10 minutes before class to sign in, meet the instructor and get settled in for an hour of "you" time.  :) 

Sunday
Aug092015

Week 14 at the 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8 was Youth Day at the Market, featuring the Oliver Kelly Farm animals, Mill City Cooks youth-led demo, Power to Produce program, kid tatoos from Oink Outings and the Minneapolis Public Schools Food Truck

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Power of Produce (a national program, new to MCFM this year) continues to be very popular. It was featured is this recent Star Trib article.

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Shoppers sampled beet hummus from the Minneapolis Public Schools Food Truck and learned more about the farm-to-school efforts going on in our public schools. They were also promoting the 4th Annual Farm to School Community BBQ.

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Metal artists Made By Liz P and Primitive Precision debuted at the August 8 Market.  Look for a post featuring Liz and Hans on our Farmers Market blog later this week.

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The very talented Orange Mighty Trio entertained shoppers.

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Chinese Long Beans - sometimes referred to as Yard Long Beans - so good!

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers MarketAugust 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Love at the Market. :)

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

The goat!

August 8, 2015 Mill City Farmers Market

Friday
Aug072015

Should the DMNA Form Two Independent Neighborhood Associations? Feedback Sessions & Voting Info

Should the current Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Assosciation (DMNA) become two independent neighborhood associations?

The DMNA serves both the Downtown East and Downtown West neighborhoods. On September 21,  DMNA Members will vote to accept or reject a resolution to form two independent neighborhood associations that would serve East and West respectively.  Anyone who lives, works or owns property in Downtown East or West is eligible to vote.

To prepare our two neighborhoods for this vote, four informational meetings/feedback sessions will be hosted by the DMNA and facilitated by City staff.  This will be your opportunity to learn the details of this proposed change and provide input on the future of our neighborhood association(s).

INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS & FEEDBACK SESSIONS

Tuesday, August 18
Guthrie - Dowling Studio, 818 S 2nd Street
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Monday, August 24
New Century Theatre, City Center
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Wednesday, September 9
Open Book - 1011 Washington Avenue S
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Thursday, September 10
Central Library - Pohlad Hall, 300 Nicollet Mall
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

MEMBERSHIP VOTE ON THE PROPOSAL TO FORM TWO INDEPENDENT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS
SEPTEMBER 21  - DMNA BOARD MEETING
THE DEPOT RENAISSANCE HOTEL, 225 3rd AVE S
5:45 pm - 8:00 pm

Friday
Aug072015

Washington Avenue Bridge Closure 

Via an August 7 Hennepin County e-newsletter:

WHAT'S HAPPENING
Motorists traveling the Washington Avenue Bridge (County Road 122) over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis will encounter traffic closures starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2015. These closures will allow Hennepin County to complete a routine bridge inspection.

The marked detour uses Pleasant Street SE, University Avenue SE/Fourth Street SE and I-35W.
 
DETAILS
The closures will occur as follows:
•Eastbound traffic will be closed starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, August 10 through 12 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12
•Westbound traffic will be closed starting at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, August 12 through 4 p.m. on Friday, August 14.

IMPACT TO BICYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS 
There should be no impact to bicyclists or pedestrians using the top level of the bridge. 
 
MORE INFORMATION
See active projects on our interactive road construction map.

Learn more about how transportation is connecting people to places.
 
CONTACT Colin Cox at colin.cox@hennepin.us or 612-596-7426 with questions about this bulletin.