Final Week of the 2011 Mill City Farmers Market (Outside, that is!)

October 15 was a perfect season finale to the 2011 Mill City Farmers Market.  While it was sad saying goodbye to all the vendors we've enjoying seeing each week - there is some good news to share.   On Saturday, December 10, the vendors will return for an indoor Market at the Mill City Museum from 10:00am - 2:00pm.  Also, Local D'Lish will host Market vendors one Saturday a month during the off season, starting November 19.

Check Out the 35W Bridge Tonight!

The 35W Bridge is scheduled to light up pink at 6:00pm tonight to help kick off the American Cancer Society's "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer" walk, which will be held tomorrow at Lake Nokomis.

Taste Twin Cities Food Tours Announces New Downtown Minneapolis Skyway Tour

This Saturday marks the final Taste Twin Cities Food Tours" Minneapolis Riverwalk Tour" for 2011.  But don't fret, because they just announced a new Downtown Minneapolis Skyway Tour (November - March).

You'll weave your way through the cozy corners of downtown Minneapolis skyways on a food adventure.  Stroll through the "Broadway" Theatre District and enjoy VIP service as you visit some the newest and hottest award winning restaurant downtown has to offer.  Along the way you'll also visit quaint eateries that have pride in local ownership; including a favorite since 1932.  You'll leave the tour with a tasty experience of some of the best food finds Minneapolis has to offer all while learning history of downtown and soaking in the local culture.

For a limited time, Taste Twin Cities Food Tours is offering a special introductory rate for this new tour, so be sure to check them out soon!

Each 3-hour walking tour is limited to 12 guests, advanced tickets required.  There are five tasting stops along the way, and the tours start at 2:30pm Thursdays and Saturdays.   To learn more, visit their website and Facebook, and follow them on Twitter.

Four Board Directors Elected at October 11 Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association Annual Membership Meeting

Four Board Directors were elected during the October 11 Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association(DMNA) Annual Meeting held at the Central Library.  They are Andrea Christenson, Andy Hauer, Eric Laska and Wally Swan.  Christenson, Hauer and Swan are incumbents, and we are excited to have Eric join the Board.  (below, new board member Eric Laska)

Anyone who lives, works, or owns property in the Downtown East or Downtown West neighborhoods can run for a seat on the DMNA Board. 

Board Chair Gerry Ewald lead the meeting, and prior to voting Andy Hauer presented the DMNA Special Recognition and Appreciation Award to Sarah Harris, CEO, Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District.  Andy cited some impressive numbers on the DID's accomplishments, including:

12,009 - Graffiti removed as of August 30, 2011.
200,770 - Instances of pedestrian assistance provided.
2,206,348 - Pounds of garbage removed.
24 - Number of lives saved.

Guest speakers included Council Member Lisa Goodman, Park Board Commissioner Anita Tabb, Manager of Transit Oriented Development David Frank, Minneapolis Police Department's 1st Precinct Crime Prevention Specialist Renee Allen.  

Council Member Goodman touched on downtown growth and improvements, including the opening of The Cowles Center, Lund's new store getting underway, a number of residential projects being proposed, solar parking meters and 52 blocks of re-paved downtown streets.  She also mentioned the disturbing possibility of downtown being split into different Wards, an action voted on by the Charter Commission.

Park Board Commissioner Anita Tabb discussed three main projects related to downtown:  The Riverfront Initiative (this is a 30-year vision), the Fuji Ya site (a study made possible by a private donation to the Minneapolis Parks Foundation will begin in the near future, kicked off by a public meeting), and Crown Hydro (not dead yet, but quiet for the moment).

Manager of Transit Oriented Development David Frank explained his job is to get development to happen at transit stops, or as he tells kids, "build stuff near trains".   The Mayor indicates priority areas to focus on, and David meets with property owners, tours, finds funding and coordinates with a number of agencies.

1st Precinct Crime Prevention Specialist Renee Allen listed some of the programs they've implemented and are implementing to fight crime, including a Block training that North Loop residents will participate in November 9 at the Precinct.

Hennepin County Commissioner Peter McLaughlin, Representative Bobby Joe Champion and Senator Linda Higgins also spoke at the meeting. 

Week 23 at the 2011 Mill City Farmers Market

What a glorious day - October 8th and Market shoppers were wearing shorts and T-shirts.  Fingers crossed that next Saturday will be more of the same, because (OMG!) it's the last outdoor Market of the 2011 season.  Look for Marty and Darrold of Sunrise Flour Mill out on the plaza baking pizzas using their outdoor oven, with dough made from their popular Organic Pizza Flour.

City Cycle Tours Announces October is Customer Appreciation Month

This month City Cycle Tours is offering all repeat customers 15% off their overall tour price.

Company representative Daniel O'Brien said 2011 has been a fantastic season for City Cycle Tours, and they are extending this offer to everyone who has been out with them this year.

To take advantage of this offer, call 651-262-6006 or email citycyclemn@gmail.com and mention the Repeat Customer special.

Find out more about City Cycle Tours via the following links:  Main Website, Features Website, Facebook and Twitter

October 12, 2011, Wednesday - Authentic East Hennepin Experience

Time: 5:00pm – 5:50pm

Location: Main Street SE and East Hennepin Avenue MAP

East Hennepin Avenue, originally known as Bay Street, has always been a ferociously interesting dividing line between northeast and southeast Minneapolis. Join us for 45 minutes to learn a very brief history of St. Anthony Falls, glimpse the interior of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, and hear gripping tales of the neighborhood’s first families. Along the way you will view diverse architecture, assorted building rehabilitations​, and hidden neighborhood art.

Afterwards, head on over to Nicollet Island for the Third Ward Neighborhoodfest!

The Depot Hosts Bar & Patio Party for Neighbors and Guests

We met The Depot's Restaurant Manager, Randee Douglas, when our group stopped at the Stone Arch Bar for a drink during Mill City Museum's Minneapolis History Pub Crawl in August.  While chatting with Randee, we learned about the monthly Bar & Patio Party The Deport started hosting this summer after the completion of their beautiful new patio, situated just off of the Stone Arch Bar.  

The latest party was September 28, and featured Flat Earth Brewing Company of St. Paul, whose staff was on hand to pour samples and answer questions about their micro-brews.  DJ Adrian Perryman of Events by MV was spinning tunes, and juicy sliders were being devoured as fast as the chef could plate 'em up at the grill.  Servers treated guests to martinis and specialty shots, and fruits and cheeses were available for the non-carnivores in the crowd.  It all added up to a relaxing, enjoyable evening - a neat gift from The Depot to it's neighbors and guests.

A sizable fire pit is the focal point of the patio, and will come in handy for October's party (what are the odds of it being this gorgeous a month from now?).  You can stay informed on what's happening at The Depot through Facebook and Twitter. 

600 Sluts on the Stone Arch Bridge - SlutWalk Minneapolis 2011

A diverse crowd participated in Saturday's SlutWalk Minneapolis 2011, including barely dressed women, fully dressed women, men, parents with babies, trannies and even pets (plus a Segway tour and horse-drawn carriage inadvertently got in the mix).

The purpose of this rape-awareness event was to spread the messages of 'don't blame the victim' and 'don't rape'.   Details are available on the website, and there are news clips from Kare11 and the StarTrib with more info.

Slide show best viewed in full-screen mode

Week 22 at the Mill City Farmers Market

It was a gorgeous Fall morning at the Market.  Only two Saturdays left in the 2011 season - don't miss out!  We picked up some beautiful edamame from Swede Lake Farms.  I'm thinking edamame hummus.

The Zen Box Izakaya Experience

Zen Box Izakaya(602 Washington Avenue South) is now open, and it was so worth the wait!  From the moment you walk in and are greeted with a cheer of “Irrasaimase!” (“Welcome!”), until you leave to chants of “Arigato gozaimashita” (“Thank you very much for coming!") - it's a wonderful experience.

Many people know owners John and Lina Goh (below) from their popular lunch-only skyway location.   Per Lina, "We are very blessed with a group of loyal fans whom embraced us from the beginning when we came from San Francisco to open Zen Box Japanese Eatery in the skyway. They are one of the reasons why we opened the second location, so that they can also share their love for good food with their friends and family."

She added, "We simply love to eat, and love to share with others our passion for Japanese comfort food. We believe that Food brings people together and good food comes from the heart."

We started off with Japanese beers exclusive to Zen Box - Asahi and Hitachino Ginger.  Zen Box has created their own version of pub nibbles, Buckwheat Soba Sticks, lightly fried for a crispy texture and seasoned with sea salt.

Our server, Heidi, recommended four items for our first visit, starting with the Crab Croquettes with Spicy Mayo ("Big Brother" Kani Korokke on the menu) and Tuna Poke', a melt-in-your-mouth marinated raw tuna with Poke' dressing.   Both were absolutely delish.

Next, the Zen Box Short Ribs.  The flavor reminded me of a steak grilled to perfection - mmmmm.

Finally, the Chicken Kara-Age (Crispy Chicken) with Kamikaze Sauce.  Words can't describe the incredible delicate crunch - I don't recall having anything like it.  Again, the accompanying sauce was delicious.

In addition to creating a relaxing atmosphere and wonderful food, John and Lina have assembled a staff who share their passion.   Beyond the lively greeting at the door (which immediately sets a "feel good" tone), the servers are attentive, helpful and genuinely excited to discuss the menu and make suggestions. 

So now the dilemma we're faced with is what to have on our next visit.  While there are many tasty items on the menu, we'll be tempted to order the same four dishes again - they were just soooo good.

Per Lina, most of the lunch and dinner menu items are available for take-out, with the exception of the Ramen dishes.  They are currently working on a take-out menu.

You can reach Zen Box at 612-332-3936, and follow them on Facebook.  Check their website for the lunch and dinner menus.

Park Board Seeking Public Input on Proposed Park and Trail Plan for Upper River

On Wednesday, September 21, 2011, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Commissioners accepted the draft RiverFIRST: A Park Design Proposal and Implementation Framework for the Minneapolis Upper Riverfront for new parks along the North and Northeast sides of the Upper Riverfront.

The proposal recommends that the Park Board partner with the City of Minneapolis and other government and non-profit partners to develop five new green and public spaces within five years.

Riverfront Trail System with Farview Park phase one greenways – which integrate with existing city and regional parks and trails to create a cohesive, user-friendly network of commuter and recreational connections, most notably across the Interstate 94 trench cutting off Northsiders and the West Metro from the Mississippi.

BioHaven® Islands – offering water quality rehabilitation while providing scenic views and habitat for native plants and animals, including migrating birds.

Scherer Park – an existing Minneapolis Parks property along the Northeast side of the riverfront, and located in a burgeoning neighborhood and adjacent to compatible properties, including existing parks and bridges.

Northside Wetlands Park – which transforms significant acreage from the existing Port of Minneapolis from asphalt to amenity, without adding industry, and becomes a destination point for Farview Park and other envisioned Northside greenways.

Downtown Gateway – the restoration of a historic park at the front door of downtown.
 
The Park Board has actively sought public input during each phase of plan development and is now asking the public to share its thoughts about the four proposed new parks during a formal public comment period, September 22 – November 6, 2011.

In addition to wide distribution of a news release announcing the public comment period to local media outlets, neighborhood and community associations and via the MR|DI’s online blog and e-newsletter, the Park Board is advertising the MR|DI public comment period in four Minneapolis newspapers: Finance & Commerce (legal notices), North News, Camden News, and the Northeaster (flyer inserts).

The public is encouraged to view the proposal and/or the executive summary and submit comments at Park Board Headquarters and any Minneapolis Parks recreation center or online at Minneapolis Riverfront Development Initiative.com.

Week 21 at the Mill City Farmers Market

It was an action-packed day as the Market celebrated Oktoberfest in conjuntion with the Mill City Museum.  We tried a donut from Sweetland Orchard for the first time - WOW - now I understand what all the fuss is about!

People Serving People 'Change a Life Coalition Matching Gift Challenge'

There are numerous ways to help People Serving Peoplecontinue the great work they do day in and day out.  In previous postings we've mentioned donating items such of children's books, toiletries and baby items, and women's career clothes.  There are fund raisers such as ongoing Chefs for Change dinners, and the Heart and Soul event coming up this Saturday night.  Here's a new opportunity:  Change a Life Coalition Matching Gift Challenge.

Join the Change a Life Coalition with a monthly gift and the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation will match your gifts 100% for 12 months.  (First donation must be made by October 15 to qualify.)

The Change a Life Coalition is a group of individuals acting together to provide homeless children and families with new opportunities for healthy and stable family life. Members make monthly recurring donations to People Serving People’s Family Support Services. This includes employment services, family advocacy, financial fitness, early childhood education, tutoring, family activities and more. The Coalition ensures that People Serving People keep programs going continually.

Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam Tour - Fun, Free, Informative

Remember the dog in the animated movie "Up" that was immediately and frequently distracted by "Squirrel!"?  Well, that's how I react to "Tour!" 

I've wanted to tour the Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam since moving to the Mill District two years ago, but our work schedules and packed weekends always seemed to take precedent over making time for the tour.  So, when Mill City Commons organized a private tour for members earlier this month, I signed us up right away. 

What a great way to spend an hour on a beautiful afternoon.  From the vantage point of the Lock and Damn facility, we gained a whole new perspective of the river, falls, bridges and riverbanks.  Our tour guide, Josh, provided a wealth of information, and we were able to get up close and personal with some of the powerful mechanics.  

In addition to the history, facts and figures discussed during the tour, the US Army Corps of Engineers has a variety printed materials available to take home.  Tours run through September, so if you haven't had a chance to enjoy one yet, there's still time this season.

Day of the Dead / Dia de los Muertos Postcards on Display at the Open Book

Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA) sponsored a Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) postcard competition, and the 253 entries are now on display in the Open Book Lobby Gallery until November 6.  The 4"x6" postcards incorporate a number of artistic methods, including collage, paint, drawing, printing, sewing, photography and digital imagery.  

The below slide show will give you an idea of how diverse the entries are, but we strongly recommend you stop in (1011 Washington Avenue South) to appreciate this creative collection in person.  It's wild!

The Great Minnesota Pet Together Seeks Volunteers for October 1 Adoption Event

Although this event isn't in our neighborhood (it's at the MN Fair Grounds), we know there are a lot of pet lovers here who might want to do a few hours of volunteer service at this October 1 adoption event.

Download Great Minnesota Pet Together

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Week 20 at the Mill City Farmers Market

With just four Saturdays remaining in the 2011 Mill City Farmers Market season, it's time to get serious with our shopping lists.  The Market is a great place to pick up unique gifts - house warming, birthdays, hostess gifts, and of course Christmas.

Monster Halloween Store Opens on Washington Avenue South - Mill City Times Exclusive

It's never too early to start working on your perfect Halloween costume or party, and the Monster Halloween store is now open and ready to help.   They're located at 1211 Washington Avenue South (next to Bobby & Steve's Auto World) and will be open daily 10:00am-10:00pm until November 7th.

The store features two levels stocked with decorations, makeup, accessories, props and costumes for both kids and adults.  

Manager Hunter Duncan has plans to offer artist services for customers who want professionally applied makeup to complete their costume.  We'll post a follow up article when the details are available.

Check out some of the cool items and large selection you'll find at Monster Halloween:

There are separate changing rooms for men and women, so you can make sure the outfit that looks great on the hanger also looks great on you.   The "Ladies Boodoir" is located on the upper level, and has 8 dressing rooms.

Reach them at 612-338-5161, or email info@gosota.com with any questions.

Mill City Farmers Market September 11 Harvest Moon Dinner

Neighbors and friends of the Mill City Farmers Market filled the train shed Sunday night for the Harvest Moon Dinner.  Attendees enjoyed a feast prepared by Chefs Heather Hartman and Nick Schneider, Cajun music, a colorful live auction, silent auction, raffle, and guest speaker Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie. 

Can't think of a better way to transition into the Fall season.