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

Brianna Ojard
Associate Editor

David Tinjum
Publisher
612-321-8020
dave@millcitymedia.org

Claudia Kittock
Columnist / Non-Profits
Email Claudia...

Becky Fillinger
Small Business Reporter
Producer / Milling About
Email Becky...

Michael Rainville Jr.
History Columnist
Email Michael...

Doug Verdier
River Matters

Mill City Times is a not-for-profit community service. We do not sell advertising on this site.

Community Partners

Thanks to our community partners, whose support makes Mill City Times possible:

MILL CITY FARMERS MARKET

With over 100 local farmers, food makers and artists, MCFM strives to build a local, sustainable and organic food economy in a vibrant, educational marketplace.

Visit their website...

HENNEPIN HISTORY MUSEUM

Hennepin History Museum is your history, your museum. We preserve and share the diverse stories of Hennepin County, MN. Come visit!

Visit their website...

MEET MINNEAPOLIS

Maximizing the visitor experience of Minneapolis for the economic benefit of our community, making Minneapolis the destination of choice among travelers.

Visit their website...

MSP FILM SOCIETY

Promoting the art of film as a medium that fosters cross-cultural understanding, education, entertainment, and exploration.

Visit their website...

GREAT RIVER COALITION

Enhancing the Minneapolis riverfront environment—for people and pollinators.

Visit their website...

Cultural Cornerstones
Search Mill City
Recent News
Front Page Archives

Minneapolis Riverfront News

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 (4183)

Thursday
Feb102011

Winner of Minneapolis Riverfront Design Competition Announced

TLS/KVA was named the winner of the Minneapolis Riverfront Design Competition today during a press conference at the Nicollet Island Pavilion.  View the presentation and detailed proposal below:

TLS/KVA

TLS/KVA from MRDC on Vimeo.

A set of inter-related design initiatives-focused on health, mobility and green economy-that function at multiple scales and are enhanced by community outreach strategies to raise public awareness about consumer choice impacts on the River system.

View design details...

The other finalists and their designs were:

Ken Smith Workshop

Ken Smith from MRDC on Vimeo.

The river is a catalyst for renewal through new and enhanced park, infrastructure and ecological systems and a series of bold, iconic design scenarios that reflect the area’s history and spirit of place.

View design details...

Turenscape

Turenscape from MRDC on Vimeo.

A fifty-year framework for investment that focuses on: ecological renewal, social equity, new economies and a new identity for the city of the river, and includes a strategic approach to ecological infrastructure, re-orienting urbanism and phasing over time.

View design details...

Stoss Landscape Urbanism

Stoss Landscape and Urbanism from MRDC on Vimeo.

A longer-term transformation that reclaims the river as civic space, introduces new landscapes, infrastructure and urban fabrics, and weaves the multiple new and existing systems and experiences back into the city.

View design details...

Thursday
Feb102011

Yoga: A Transformation - Mind, Body and Spirit - With Breath and Movement

Submitted by Victoria Rico

Whether improvisational or classic theater, actors warm up their voices and bodies with a variety of vocal and physical routines.  Transformation of sound and movement is a warm-up used in acting companies around the country.   The basic steps are and principles are easy:

   1. Make a circle.
   2. Person (A) enters the middle of the circle and creates a sound and a movement.
   3. A explores the sound and movement, which  might morph it into a new sound and movement.
   4. A then moves to another individual in the group (B) and gives the energy – the sound- the movement to B.
   5. B then moves into the circle and explores the sound and movement given by A and further transforms the sound and movement – when fully explored – B gives the sound and movement to another individual in the circle (C).
   6. Each individual takes a go at receiving, exploring and giving energy – through sound and movement to one another in the circle.

In transformation of sound and movement, the actors warm up the body and vocal chords, explore time and space, give and receive one another’s energy and trust.  The concept was recently explored in Circle Mirror Transformation by Annie Baker, staged at the Guthrie Theater in May and June of 2010

While transformation of sound and movement is an actor’s tool, the concepts also applies to yoga.  Transformation of the mind, body and spirit can be achieved through each asana practice (physical practice).   While it may seem counterintuitive, losing oneself to each asana (pose) creates the greatest opportunity for transformation.   One can not muscle one’s way into an asana, one must allow the breath to transport the body into each configuration. 

Click here for the full article under the Mill City Times Fitness Blog

Tuesday
Feb082011

Local Talent and Funky Gifts at CorAzoN

CorAzoN recently hosted an "Idea Local: Minnesota's Creatives" party at the 1026 Washington Avenue South store.

CoraZon Party Feb 4

Above, Andrea Bidelman introduced her new line of Hobo inspired products. Historical Hobo symbols applied to functional everyday items such as wallets, passport holders and wall hangings.  Below, Penny Larsen of Penny Larsen Jewely with CorAzoN owner Susan Zdon.  She introduced her new line of Minnesota jewelry and silver zip code charms - a new take on her most recognized designs in a series of heart pendants - hand crafted, hand-cut and cast by Penny.

CoraZon Party Feb 4

In addition to owning Ink, a very cool by-appointment-only pen store in the IDS Center, Barry Rubin created a line of amusing, clever coasters called Step 12 1/2.  Great conversation pieces for your next party!

CoraZon Party Feb 4

Below, CorAzoN staff member Judy Grasamke, along with Robert Cohanim of Historical Remedies, took a moment to sport Judy's bow ties.  Hanging behind them are Judy's Urban Lunch Bags, each containing a personalized napkin.

CoraZon Party Feb 4

Robert's line of homeopathic lozenges are pictured below.  For more information on the benefits of each lozenge, check out Historical Remedies.

CoraZon Party Feb 4

Below, Susan with brother John Munson of The New Standards.

CoraZon Party Feb 4

Tuesday
Feb082011

Tonight - McKnighty-Nights I at The Loft

Time:  7:00pm

Location: Target Performance Hall, Open Book, 1011 Washington Avenue South

Admission:  Free

McKnighty-Nights I: The Screenwriters

Fellowship winners Shelli Ainsworth and David Erickson show and talk about their work. Cosponsored with IFP.

Each year, the McKnight Foundation and IFP Media Arts award four $25,000 Fellowships to Minnesota’s mid-career filmmakers and screenwriters. This year, screenwriter Jeffrey Hatcher (Casanova, The Duchess) and film producer Christine K. Walker (Howl, Life During Wartime) will present the 2010 Fellowship recipients and their work on two nights in February at The Loft Literary Center. We’re calling them the “McKnighty-Nights.” Bedtime snacks will be served.

Admission is free.

Monday
Feb072011

Baby's First Class at MacPhail Center for Music

We've been enamored with the MacPhail Center for Music since moving to the Mill District.  On February 5 we took our 15-month old grandson Louis to his first class there -  Musical Explorations II.  Angela is an incredible teacher.  She transitioned from activity to activity effortlessly, played piano and guitar, and explained the whys and hows of incorporating music into a child's development. 

The quality of activities, materials and follow up is wonderful.  After class parents were given a CD of songs recorded by MacPhail teachers, along with other materials. Shortly after class we received an email with a weekly Lesson - complete with videos and sheet music.  It is a true commitment to ensuring the lessons go beyond the weekly 1-hour class.

Below, Louis learns the Hokey Pokey with the help of his parents:

MacPhail 

MacPhail

 

 

Sunday
Feb062011

The Benefits of Being a Mill City Commons Member - An Ongoing Series

Dave and I became members of Mill City Commons(MCC) in January.  We joined for a number of reasons, including the ability to attend interesting member-only events, meet fascinating people, and to have more of a hands on role in helping with their various fundraising activities. 

Unfortunately, time constraints keep us from attending all the events we'd like to.   For example, Linnea Tweed, Executive Director at MCC, filled us in on a few we missed this past week:

"The Penumbra Theatre welcomed Mill City Commons members to their rehearsal on Thursday to watch Act 1 of their production of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom playing at the Guthrie February 11 through March 6. Artistic Director Lou Bellamy spoke before the rehearsal and provided valuable context for the show. It was a wonderful opportunity to hear about August Wilson and the play. Today, members enjoyed a hard hat tour of the Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts. It is a pretty amazing place."

The Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Artsis the former Minnesota Shubert Center for Performing Arts, now located at 528 Hennepin Avenue and currently being renovated.

To learn more about Mill City Commons, please visit the website, or contact Linnea at 612-455-3329 or linneatweed@millcitycommons.org.

Sunday
Feb062011

Get Your Environmental News Fix with "Green Notes" from Hennepin County

Green Notes is a monthly e-newsletter covering environmental news, programs and events from Hennepin County.  While the articles are not Mill District-specific, anyone concerned with environmental issues in the city will find the newsletter interesting.

Click here to view archived issues of Green Notes.  To sign up for future editions, send an e-mail with "subscribe" in the subject line to greennotes@co.hennepin.mn.us.  

Friday
Feb042011

Mill City Museum's "Arts on the River Day Camp" Part of Minnesota Historical Society's Summer 2011 Camp Lineup

The Minnesota Historical Societyoffers a wide variety of summer camps, including the popular "Little House in the Big Fort" and "Huck Finn" camps at Historic Fort Snelling, named "Best Camps for Kids" by Nickelodeon.com in 2008.

This years line up includes "Arts on the River Day Camp" for ages 9 - 11 at Mill City Museum. This camp runs July 5 – 8 from 9:00am to 3:00pm each day. 

Participants will play music, get creative, bake bread and construct books while exploring the rich culture along the Minneapolis riverfront district.  They'll enjoy a new experience each day at four top arts centers, including Mill City Museum, the Guthrie Theater, Minnesota Center for Book Arts and MacPhail Center for Music. Campers will start each day at Mill City Museum and walk with camp leaders less than three blocks to each art organization. 

This camp is limited to 22 participants.  Click here for online registration.

Thursday
Feb032011

City of Minneapolis Announces Historic Resources Survey

Brian Schaffer, Senior City Planner for the City of Minneapolis, recently announced the schedule of locations, dates and times for public meetings to introduce the Historic Resources Survey project.

The purpose of the survey is to:

- Identify unknown historic properties.
- Recommend properties for further study.
- Make informed decisions about the significance and protection of historic resources.
- Develop goals and strategies for preservation as well as neighborhood planning.

The city is divided into several Survey Areas, and the Mill District is part of the Central Core Survey.   The meeting for our neighborhood will be held Thursday, February 17, from 6:00pm-7:30pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Residents can also tell the City what's historical in their neighborhoods by completing an online survey.

The City was first surveyed for historic resources in the 1970s, and many of todays designated landmarks and historic districts are a result of the original survey.  Since 2001, CPED has conducted a re-survey of historic resources in Minneapolis that has been funded by grants from the Minnesota Historical Society and matched by City dollars. The City has undertaken the re-survey because the aging of properties, changing attitudes about which types of historic resources need to be identified, e.g. historic landscapes, cultural and ethnic group resources. The survey will help achieve the Citys goal of documenting historic resources throughout the entire city over a ten-year period, which is scheduled for completion in 2011.

Wednesday
Feb022011

This Friday Night - Idea Local Party at CorAzoN

Join the party from 5:00pm-9:00pm at CorAzoN, 1026 Washington Avenue South, to celebrate Idea Local: Minnesota's Finest Creatives!

Guests for the evening include:

Andrea Bidelman introduces her new line of Hobo inspired products.

Penny Larsen - Penny Larsen Jewelry - One of the areas best know jewelry designers introduces her new line of Minnesota jewelry and silver zip code charms...and just in time for Valentines day a new take on her most recognized designs a series of heart pendents - hand crafted, handcut and cast by Penny.

Kristin Knych - Doodle Bird Designs Hip, stylish, stationary!

Charlie Hanson - New Valentine cards, original art work and of course Charlie's book - When Words Get in the Way

Judy Grasamke - Urban lunch bags for him and her

Robert Cohanim - Historical Remedies Line

Barry Rubin & Ruthie Steller - 12 1/2 Steps Drink Coasters

Ginnie Peterson - New Encaustic work from Ginnie

The lovely Sophia and Noel will provide music - come dance and enjoy with us!

Monday
Jan312011

People Serving People - So Much More Than Emergency Housing

I remember noticing the neatly painted People Serving People(PSP) building while standing on the Light Rail platform at the Dome, and wondering what is was.  Well, now I know.

Amy Jenkins, Director of Development, and Lauren Rimestad, Development Coordinator, recently gave Dave and me an in-depth tour. We were amazed at what an incredible facility it is, and I'm almost at a loss as to where to begin sharing all the positive programs they have in place.

PSP has come a long way since 1982, when it began as a temporary homeless shelter for men with chemical dependencies. The first location was the former Francis Drake Hotel at 416 South 10th Street. 

Over the years homelessness changed from affecting mostly men with chemical and mental health problems, to affecting families with children.  Now located at 614 South 3rd Street, PSP has evolved to address that change.  It is a family-only shelter, which last year averaged 318 guests per night, with an average family size of three.  While there's no time limit on how long a family can live there, the average stay is 38 days. Click here for additional statistics.

Because it's so much more than emergency housing, extensive planning went into the current 10-floor facility.  This assured PSP could fulfull their mission to serve homeless children and their families, providing new opportunities for a healthy, stable family life, as well as self-sufficiency.

In addition to the 99 hotel-size rooms and 10 two-bedroom apartments, PSP houses:

22 Collaborative agencies, such as Minneapolis Public Schools, At Home Group Partnerships for Independence, and University of Minnesota Institute of Child Development.   The full list can be viewed on their website.

There is both an Infant Center and Early Childhood Development Center.  The schedule maintained at the ECD center provides daily structure to help children feel safe and ease anxieties.  There are 52 available spaces for children under 5, and PSP partners with Head Start when the demand is higher than spaces available.

DSC04696

The full service dining hall serves 1,000 meals every day, all prepared in the industrial kitchen.  In addition, the Culinary Arts Training Program takes place here.  This progressive program offers specific skills to those interested in culinary arts.  Students train for 13 weeks in areas of sanitation, food preparation, equipment, soups and more. Each graduate is given a uniform, cookbook, a set of industrial kitchen knives and a certificate.  More importantly, they are given an opportunity to earn a livable wage.

DSC04707

 DSC04702

In the Technology Center, parents learn how to navigate the Internet for help with job searches and creating resumes.  Each family is assigned a Employment Counselor.  There are also classrooms for tutoring and after school activities, as well as a children's library.  Upon leaving PSP, children can take books with them.  Donations of children's books are always welcome, along with both children's clothes and items for the Career Ware Closet for adults.

DSC04713


The onsite health clinic is staffed by a Nurse Practioner, RN's and Public Health Nurse.  Hennepin County works with residents on health insurance matters.

To assure the facility is a safe environment for residents, staff, volunteers and collaborative partners, everyone entering PSP must first go through the security station (including metal detector). Just beyond security is the service center.  There are 5 Case Manager/Advocates on staff, and each family is assigned their own Case Manager. 

DSC04678

Thanks to funding from Cummins Power Generation and anonymous donors, PSP will be adding a rooftop vegetable garden this year.  Ecological Gardens of Minneapolis is designing and installing the project.  Their rooftop designs include features such as earthboxes, SIPs (sub-irrigated planters), raised beds, light weight soil mixes, trellising and shade and hail netting.  Although designed to be low-maintenance, PSP will be looking to volunteers to help make the vegetable garden a success. 

Each family's situation and challenges are unique, and the transition from being homeless to having a home is not easy.  PSP tries to stay in touch with families, but lack of a phone number and frequent address changes makes follow up communication difficult to maintain.  A new initiative being discussed is basic life skills training, such as personal finances.

In addition to a full time staff of 60 and the collaborative agencies, PSP operates with the help of numerous volunteers.   Last year, 1,000 volunteers performed 30,000 hours of service! Lindsey Tiede is PSP's Volunteer Coordinator.  She can be reached at 612-277-0256 or lindseyt@peopleservingpeople.org.

I've really only touched the surface, but luckily PSP maintains an informative website where you can learn more.

Mill City Times looks forward to partnering with PSP to assist with visibility, fundraising, and promoting volunteer activities.

Sunday
Jan302011

Fitness Professional Benefits from Using a Personal Trainer

Meet Carol - high-energy, exercise-loving spin instructor. 

Why on earth would Carol seek out a personal trainer?  She took time after her 75-minute Friday Night Happy Hour RealRyder spin class with Andrea at 501SP1N to explain why:

Email Andrea Austin at andrea@tweakmyworkout.com if you'd like to try a complimentary RealRyder spin class at 501SP1N, or if you have a fitness or nutrition question. 

Saturday
Jan292011

501F1T Included in Star Trib's January 27 Special Publication "balance"

The Star Tribune has an ongoing series, Specialty Publications.  501F1T, a work out destination in the Mill District, and staff member Diana Broschka, were included in the most recent Specialty Publication, "balance". 

Friday
Jan282011

Mill District City Apartment Open House Held January 25

Earlier this week Mill District City Apartments held their Open House, showcasing the gorgeous features that weren't yet installed during our last visit for the November 2010 Ribbon Cutting ceremony.  Attendees were greeted by the lovely music of PR Con Brio.

DSC04611

Now 65% leased, residents enjoy a lengthy list of first class amenities.  Here are a few:

Below, the comfy lounge area just off the main entry includes reading material, flat screen TV and simulated fireplace.

DSC04660

Next, a top notch party room. Although not shown in this picture, there's a beautiful fireplace opposite the bar.

DSC04616

A cedar sauna is just outside the work out facility, which is equipped with top of the line equipment, flat screen TV's and enough weights, etc., to keep any hardbody from getting bored.

DSC04653

Along side the sauna and work out area is an indoor pool and jacuzzi. 

DSC04640

DSC04631

DSC04637

And what pool area would be complete without a movie screen?  Avatar was playing the during the Open House.

DSC04633

The movie screen is viewable simultaneously in the pool area and outside.  No doubt the patio area will see plenty of entertaining this summer.

DSC04643

This sculpture gives promise of the courtyard to come.  We look forward to visiting again when the courtyard is completed.

DSC04651

The living wall is doing well, too!

DSC04607

Stay tuned for information on who will be filling Mill District City Apartments' street-level retail space at the corner of Washington Avenue South and Portal Avenue! 

Thursday
Jan272011

Paying Tribute to Betsy Doermann, Champion for the Mill District

Dave and I did not have the honor of meeting Betsy Doermann, nor were we familiar with the influence she had on the Mill District as it stands today.  However, when we were notified of Betsy's recent passing by Mill City Museum Director, Laura Salveson, we felt Betsy deserved a tribute in Mill City Times. 

Per Laura, "Betsy was a force of life, and will be remembered for her passion and for her work on many projects for the Saint Anthony Falls Heritage Board and the  Minnesota Historical Society, but perhaps most of all for her tireless work in coordination with many others to open the Stone Arch Bridge, opening the James J. Hill House to the public, Mill City Museum and engaging people in the story of the Saint Anthony Falls Heritage Zone and the redevelopment of the Minneapolis riverfront."

Betsy's obituary is available online.

Tuesday
Jan252011

City Gardens Flower Mill - The Place to go for Unique Valentine's Arrangements and More

City Gardens Flower Mill is a wonderful floral and gift shop in the Mill District, located at 231 10th Avenue South in the Bridgewater Lofts retail section.  They serve the greater Minneapolis & Saint Paul areas and surrounding communities.

Dan and Kaia Seefelt opened the store in 2008, with the philosophy of offering only the finest floral arrangements and gifts, backed by friendly and prompt service.   Think 'unique' and envision fresh and bold.

City Gardens Flower Mill carries a large inventory of fresh flowers and tropicals, along with an extensive gift line and greeting cards.  They create contemporary and traditional arrangements, European/dish gardens, high-style floral arrangements and silk arrangements, along with gourmet, fruit and gift baskets.

Prior to opening City Gardens Flower Mill, Dan and Kaia worked at Flowers by Reuven in New York, where Dan was Head Floral Designer on contracts with shows such as All My Children, One Life to Live, Ryan's Hope and Regis and Kathy Lee.  (Married 16 years, Dan and Kaia shared their first kiss in the flower cooler at Flowers by Reuven - just a sweet side note since we're nearing Valentine's.) 

Valentine's Day Ideas and Tips

Dan and Kaia can help you make this a memorable year for your Valentine. 

If you're looking for traditional roses, you'll find ultra fresh roses that arrive at the store the day after they're cut, with multiple colors to choose from.  Looking for something non-traditional?  City Gardens Flower Mill is your place for exotic orchids from the Philippines.  How about something between roses and exotic?  Consider a French country centerpiece, which is a tightly packed, low arrangement.  For more ideas, please call the shop at 612-332-7377 or email them at citygardens@mac.com.   They recommend placing your Valentine's order a week in advance, and consider delivery a day or two prior to the 14th. 

We've been extremely pleased with the arrangements from City Gardens Flower Mill.  When Dave and I stopped in the shop this past weekend, they were in the process of decorating for the Valentine's holiday.  Below are a few shots:

DSC04582

DSC04575

DSC04569

DSC04558

 

Monday
Jan242011

Mill City Times Welcomes Victoria Rico as a New Contributor

We are excited to have Victoria Rico as a new contributor to Mill City Times.  Her ongoing yoga-related series will include a wide range of topics, such as:

  • Success Stories
  • Upcoming Workshops
  • Yoga Philosophy
  • Yoga Playlists
  • Bio's of Minneapolis Yogis
  • Yoga sequencing
  • Videos

With over 400 hours of teacher's training through CorePower Yoga and the Green Lotus Yoga and Healing Center, Victoria is certified to teach Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, Hot Yoga, Hot Power Fusion, and Yoga Sculpt. Combining her love of healthy living with yoga and life long learning, Victoria creates yoga classes and workshops to refresh, stimulate and challenge the yoga practitioner.

Victoria says: "Yoga is a several thousand-year-old practice of physical, mental and spiritual discipline. I am honored to be a part of this great chain of wisdom. I invite you to join me in a class to share yoga traditions and asana training."

Victoria worked in the health food industry for 5 years managing health food stores throughout Minneapolis and St. Paul. She has studied and attended conferences and workshops including: holistic healing and homeopathy, vitamin and mineral supplements, vegan diets, gluten-free diets, hormone imbalances, menopause symptoms and cures, probiotics, herbal medicines, the beauty industry and mind, body spirit integration.

Free yoga workshops through January and February!
 
If you are new to yoga or just want to have some fun you can take a beginners yoga class with Victoria at the Zenith Condominiums.  Victoria is hosting a beginner’s yoga class in the penthouse #904 on Thursday January 27, at 6:30 pm.  Space is limited - the first 15 folks to call text or email Victoria will enjoy a yoga class with beverages and snacks after class. 

To make a reservation for a free yoga class at the Zenith Condominiums contact Victoria at 612-554-7755 or victoria@victoriarico.com

Victoria teaches at CorePower Yoga and wants to remind everyone that at Corepower Yoga (CPY) the first week is free.  Seven days of free yoga – what a treat?   Even if you do not want to join CPY – it is worth it just to take a couple classes in the heat – although there are classes without heated studios.   Not only are some of the classes heated but the humidity is cranked as well.  As you tap into your breath you will stretch, bend, twist, bind, sweat & detoxify.  In your yoga bliss (blissed –out) you will laugh at the wind-chill, snow and slush:   “Ah ha Ol’ Man Winter – you are not sending me to the Electric Beach; hot yoga is my new muse.”

CorePower Yoga, 501 Washington Avenue, is located on the 2nd floor.  With 3 studios, there are a variety of classes throughout the day.  For additional information regarding the various classes at CPY – go to http://www.corepoweryoga.com/

Sunday
Jan232011

MacPhail announces Spring 2011 Classes

MacPhail Center for Music has published their Spring 2011 Class schedule.

MacPhail offers a wide variety of classes for young children, teens and adults.  Examples are Early Childhood Music (starting as young as 6 weeks old), Individual and Group Lessons, Voice, and the Certificate Program. 

They also offer tuition assistance and incentives, such as a sibling discount.  Click on this link for full details.

Saturday
Jan222011

Great Article About the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory (SAFL)

Dave and I had the pleasure of touring the SAFL last summer as part of the Greening the Riverfront series through the Mill City Museum.

An interesting article recently appeared in The Line Media regarding SAFL: "dale connelly, resident tourist: saint anthony falls lab, where water meets the future".

The Line Media is a quick read, provided to subscribers weekly via email.  Click here to go to their subscription sign up page. 

Friday
Jan212011

1st Precinct Announces "Put Your Junk in Your Trunk" Campaign to Counter Increased Vehicle Thefts

On January 5, the Minneapolis Police Department issued a Press Release regarding the First Precinct and the Downtown Improvement District (DID) partnering in a theft from motor vehicle reduction strategy and education initiative dubbed “Put Your Junk in the Trunk”.

The strategy is simple - valuables should not be left in the interior of a vehicle where a potential thief can see them.  Items such as purses, wallets, gym bags, cameras, laptops, briefcases, IPods, GPS units or any other valuable should be placed in the trunk prior to arriving at your destination.  While a trunk lock is fairly easily defeated, a thief will target cars with obvious valuables in sight long before he or she will take the time to explore locked trunks which may or may not yield valuables for the taking.

Click here to read more.

On January 20, Minneapolis Police Department issued a follow up email regarding continued thefts from motor vehicles and suggestions for both individuals and businesses to help prevent these crimes, along with the following links:

http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/police/crime-prevention/

http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/police/crime-prevention/docs/TIPSPREV.pdf

http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/police/outreach/docs/safe-staff-map.pdf

Click here to sign up for these email alerts from the Minneapolis Police Department. 

For questions, contact:
Renee Allen, Crime Prevention Specialist
Minneapolis Police Department, First Precinct
renee.allen@ci.minneapolis.mn.us
612-673-5163

While the bulk of these thefts are happening in the North Loop and Warehouse District, we are not immune in the Mill District.  "Put Your Junk in Your Trunk" isn't just a catchy slogan, it's common sense.