Week 17 at the Mill City Farmers Market

At the September 1 Market, Pam from Prairie Hollow Farm once again introduced us to a new edible - this week it was the Lion's Mane Mushroom.  Butternut squash, my fave, made it's first appearance.  I asked around, and it sounds like there won't be much edamame at the Market this autumn, so if you see any you better snap them up fast (if I don't get to them first!).

Don't forget - the 2nd Annual MCFM Baking Contest is September 22.

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

The pace in our neighborhood slows down on Holiday weekends, and we like to take advantage of that by kicking back at a few of our favorite casual spots.  

While it's fun to try new things, like the beer flights at Town Hall Brewery (above), we never tire of the dishes at Zen Box.

 

 

And what's a summer stroll without a scoop of gelato from Wilde Roast?  On our last visit I tried a 1/2 scoop of cherry mixed with a 1/2 scoop of licorice.  That was goooooooooooood.  (No picture - it disappeared too fast!)

NCED's Sip of Science Series Returns September 12

Here's something cool to check out. The National Center for Earth-surface Dynamics (NCED) will resume their monthly Sip of Science series on Wednesday, September 12, at the Aster Cafe.  :)

September 12th SIP Of SCIENCE:

A "Monkeyface" mussel, native to Minnesota

Freshwater mussels are one of the most endangered animal groups in North America, but the role of these mollusks in freshwater ecosystems, including our own Mississippi River, is vital to the survival of other animals and to the stability of the food chain. Freshwater mussels improve water quality in rivers and streams, allowing greater light penetration for algae and other organisms to grow, and they act as excellent indicators of environmental changes. Mussels have mutually beneficial relationships with many species of fish, providing them with nutrients that benefit other animals and humans who eat the fish.

Join mussel researcher Mark Hove in a discussion of these aquatic creatures, including the curious strategies native mussels employ to successfully reproduce, how mussels help not only rivers but people, the anthropogenic impacts on mussels, and mussel conservation.

About our speaker:

Mark Hove learned about mussels while getting his MS in Fisheries Science at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, and his recent research has focused on freshwater mussel conservation and habitat, as well as approaches to identifying juvenile freshwater mussels recovered from infested fishes. He currently works as a malacologist at the University of Minnesota and Macalester College.

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 in which researchers pair with musicians, artists and storytellers to put science in context through storytelling.

This talk takes place during happy hour at the Aster Cafe ||  Food and Drink Available for Purchase

A SIP OF SCIENCE - The Surprising Life of Native Mussels

Dr. Jessica Kozarek, Research Associate, St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, University of Minnesota

Wednesday, September 12th, 5:30p.m.   Aster Cafe, 125 SE Main Street, St. Anthony Main, Minneapolis, No cover 

The Blast Blow Dry Bar Experience

Blast Blow Dry Bar recently opened at 940 Washington Avenue South, next to Mens Dept. on the retail level of Aloft.

Below are Co-Owner Kristin Neafus, Receptionist Maureen and Stylist Stephani.

Blast is not a cut/color/mani-pedi salon.  What it is is a cool place to go for some pampering, either by yourself or with friends.  Services fall under three main categories:  Hair, Wax Bar (facial only) and Makeup & Lash Bar. 

Dave's daughter Brianna served as the model for our visit, enjoying 'The Blowout' service.  The Blowout begins with a consult with your stylist, during which you'll review style options and discuss any special needs.  Next, your stylist creates custom-mixed shampoo and conditioner incorporating your selected ingredients.  A scalp massage enhances the relaxation of the comphy lounge chair.  Stylists use hydrating styling cream during the blow out and style.

Here's a slide show of Brianna's experience with stylist Tiffany:

Unique to Blast is miXx, a custom in-house line of shampoos and conditioners.  Owners Kristin and Steven are both pharmacists, applying the same compounding skills used in formulating dermatological prescriptions to the beauty industry.  Everyone has different scalp, hair, style, and scent preferences.  With miXx, you have a personalized product made in front of you to match your personal needs and taste.  Blast's miXxologists and stylists are trained to help you chose the right ingredients.

As part of the group experience, there's a VIP Lounge.  Clients can bring in refreshments, or food can be catered in.  An ice bucket and glasses are provided for guests who bring in bubbly as part of their celebration.  Use of the lounge is free to parties of 6 or more.  Blast also has umbrellas on hand so they can provide a covered walk to your car to assure your new style isn't ruined by rain/snow.

Blast has a full makeup station, featuring Mirabella products and a fun selection of lashes. For a flawless look, try a custom-blended professional air brush application (will cover scars, burns, etc). 

A full line of MoroccanOil, KEVIN.MURPHY and other products are available for purchase.

 

In addition to a personal appointment, consider Blast for a girls night out, bridal party, or a little girl Princess party.   Their menu of services, packages and membership options is available online.  Contact Dre Barthel, Events Coordinator for Blast, at 952-807-4982 to discuss your party needs.  Her email is dre@blastdrybar.com.

Kristin and her staff are excited to meet their new Mill District neighbors, and are hosting an Open House on Thursday, September 13, from 5:00pm-7:00pm.

Follow Blast on Facebook, Website and Twitter.  Questions?  Call 612-424-5762.

Blackhawk Helicopters on Military Training Exercise over the Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront

We caught some nice shots of the military helicopters buzzing around our neighborhood - from the Stone Arch Bridge, Mill Ruins Park and our balcony.  There were a few freaked out people on the bridge!  They hadn't read the Star Trib article explaining how these are just routine training exercises.

Week 16 at the 2012 Mill City Farmers Market

Every visit to the Market is a new learning experience.  Take these beautiful specimens, for example.  We thought they were tomatoes, but found out they are Turkish Eggplants:

Cast your vote for the Mill City Farmers Market in the America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest by clicking here.  The Eagan and St. Paul Markets are currently in the lead, with MCFM a (very) distant third.

Don't forget - the 2nd Annual MCFM Baking Contest is September 22.

Road Closures for August 26 Minneapolis Duathlon

Time: 5:00am - Noon

The following parkways will be temporarily closed on Sunday, August 26, for the Minneapolis Duathlon:

West River Parkway, Father Hennepin Bluffs Park, Stone Arch Bridge, and Main Street

A complete list of parkway closures through December 2012 is available online.

Mark Your Calendars for Sanctuary's 5th Anniversary Party this Sunday, August 26

Naomi, Roger, Michael and the staff at Sanctuary the restaurant, 903 Washington Avenue South, invite you to celebrate their 5th Anniversary!

Drop by any time between 4:00pm-9:00pm to mix, mingle, dance, eat and drink with the staff, neighbors and friends of Sanctuary.  Food and beverages are complimentary, but cold beer, wine and some special cocktails will be available to enjoy at Happy Hour prices.  DJ Shannon Blowtorch will be back spinning the music.

Check out these pics from last year's party:

Best viewed in full screen mode.

Week 15 at the 2012 Mill City Farmers Market

Oh glorious day - Sonny's abfab sweet corn ice cream appeared at the August 18 Market.  :)

Cast your vote for the Mill City Farmers Market in the America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest by clicking here.  The Eagan and St. Paul Markets are currently in the lead, with MCFM a (very) distant 3rd.

Don't forget - the 2nd Annual MCFM Baking Contest is September 22.  I'm going to start testing possible entries this week, with a goal of incorporating as many Market ingredients as possible.

Personal Safety Workshops Offered to the Entire Downtown Community

The 1st Precinct and DID have teamed up to offer these free classes. 

Mark Your Calendar / Unmasking Homelessness Gala - September 22, 2012

Join host Jason DeRusha of WCCO for an unforgettable evening, topped off by enchanting jazz from The French 75 Band led by Maud Hixson and Tony Balluff.

Tonight - TC River Rats Minnesota's Military Appreciation Show

All proceeds from this special Twin Cities River Rats show go to Minnesotans’ Military Appreciation Fund (MMAF).

Location: 1628 West River Road (between the Plymouth and Broadway).

Time: 6:30pm

 

More Info

Week 14 at the 2012 Mill City Farmers Market

The first apples of the 2012 season appeared at the August 11 Market - and they disappeared in a flash.  Very Prairie debuted Market Mustard and Lucille's offered the first Apple Butter.  Really, just too many good things to list...

Cast your vote for the Mill City Farmers Market in the America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest by clicking here.  The Eagan and St. Paul Markets are currently in the lead.

Don't forget - the 2nd Annual MCFM Baking Contest is September 22!

Date Night in the Mill District

Our idea of a perfect date night in the Mill District is a leisurely stroll, checking out the ever-changing scenery and a few drinks at some favorite spots.

We love the drinks at Sanctuary.  Kicking off the night with Cherry Twizzlers and Bloody Sidecars gives the rest of the evening a nice glow.

Unfortunately, no one was playing the piano in front of MacPhail Center for Music when we walked by.  It will be there into September.

Zen Box will soon be celebrating their 1 year anniversary in the Mill District!

Haven't crossed the Stone Arch Bridge to see what those white rings in the water are?  It's the public art installation, “Project 35W”, which will be on view through August 31.   Find more details about this project and the unveiling on Facebook.

Aaaaaah - another relaxing Friday night in the Mill District draws to a close.

Fantastic 2012 National Night Out in the Mill District

The Mill District threw one heckuva 2012 National Night Out party!

Special thanks to the planning committee, lead by Cynthia Kriha, and the local businesses and organizations who contributed funds, food, drink and gift certificates.  Thank You to the Mill City Farmers Market and Mill City Museum for providing tables, chairs, grilling equipment, message boards, electrical, etc., and to everyone who helped with set up and clean up.  

What a treat - The Orange Mighty Trio invited an out-of-town musician friend to join them. 

Click here for more pictures and a full list of contributors.

Mark Your Calendars - Stone Arch Patio Party at The Depot Next Week

Party on in the Mill District:

One Minneapolis One Read - an Evening With Garrison Keillor and Diane Wilson

Via an August 7 email from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board:

One Minneapolis One Read - an evening with Garrison Keillor and Diane Wilson
Tickets are now on sale for the Sept. 24 event

Minneapolis City leaders are launching the second year of One Minneapolis One Read, a citywide “read” where the entire community is encouraged to read the same book and join in a community conversation.

One Read week – the beginning of months of conversations – will culminate in an evening with Garrison Keillor and author Diane Wilson at 7 p.m., Monday, Sept. 24 at the Minneapolis Convention Center Auditorium. Tickets are $10; $5 for seniors, students and limited income (for those tickets, select the $10 option and choose “apply discount” before purchasing). Tickets are available at www.ticketworks.com or by calling 612-343-3390.

The book is “Spirit Car: Journey to a Dakota Past,” a book of vignettes Wilson created to honor the lives of her Dakota family. “Spirit Car” is available in paperback at local independent and chain bookstores, online booksellers and www.mhspress.org. It’s also available through Hennepin County Library and as an e-book.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is a proud partner of the One Minneapolis One Read program. For more information and to get involved, visit www.OneMinneapolisOneRead.com, www.facebook.com/OneMinneapolisOneRead, www.twitter.com/minneapolisread or email oneread@minneapolismn.gov.

West River Parkway Segment Scheduled for Sealcoating August 8

Via an August 2 email from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board:

Select parkway segments are scheduled for seal coat work by the City of Minneapolis over the next week.

The following parkway segment may require temporary closure and delays during the daytime hours as seal coat work is completed. If a detour is required, flaggers will move traffic around the segment that is closed. Following sealcoat work, crews will sweep the loose chips after about 4– 7 days.  Signs will be posted reading “Loose Gravel” until the sweeping operation is completed.

Wednesday, August 8:
West River Parkway - from Portland Avenue to 13th Avenue South

For timely updates on parkway closures, sign up to receive emails about the parkway(s) you want to hear about.

Click here for information about sealcoat work.

Tonight - 2012 National Night Out!

Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Location:  Chicago Plaza (between the Guthrie and Spoonriver)

Week 13 at the 2012 Mill City Farmers Market

The first watermelon of the season appeared at the August 4 Market. Other new items we're trying this week include tomatillos and a lime and cilantro marinated bison skirt steak.

Cast your vote for the Mill City Farmers Market in the America’s Favorite Farmers Markets contest by clicking here.  Come on, people, the Eagan Market is kickin' butt!

Don't forget - the 2nd Annual MCFM Baking Contest is September 22!