May 6 at the 2023 Mill City Farmers Market - It's Good to be Back!

Just what the doctor ordered - a basket filled with goodness from the Mill City Farmers Market. New items we're enjoying this week include Ramp Salt (and ramps) from Morning Glory Farm and Gardens, hummus and veggie chips from Yummitizers, Aromatic Mist from Spoon and Theory Handmade, Fresh Face Cleanser from For They Skincare & Wellness, Polvorones D9 Edible THC Cookies from Mi Sota Essence (a vendor part of Primitiva Collective).

Opening Day - May 6, 2023 

We weren't the only ones looking forward to opening day! 

Meet some new vendors!

Mark Plunkett and Faye Jones of Morning Glory Farm and Gardens sell freshly harvested ramps and Ramp Salt (it is to die for!). They will only be at two more May markets (13th and 20th), so don't miss out!

Spoon and Theory Handmade debuted at the Market with jewelry and aromatherapy items. I love the Aromatic Mist, and look forward to trying more of their offerings.

Hanna Vomhof of WAAM Industries offers a number of reusable goods. Their grocery totes, lunch bags and other items are built to last.

YummyTizers had an incredible array of hummus, Kefir yogurts, salads and chips to choose from. In addition to dipping Mixed Veggie Chips in a tasty Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus, they worked well as a crouton substitute on a fresh salad.

Theresa Bentz of Get Bentz Farm offers yarns and roving, scarves, blankets and other items. The farm also has it's own fiber mill, along with a large natural dye garden (you can purchase a dye kit if you'd like to try your hand at it).

A new Indian food and drink option is Krishna's Delight. I tried a refreshing green smoothie that I can't wait to have again when they return for the May 27th Market.

I was excited to learn Tare Market (billed as Minnesota's first zero-waste shop) joined the Market. At MCFM, bulk food, personal care and household items will be packaged; but in their two stores, you can bring your own containers. Mill City Times posted an article on Tare last year.

For They Skincare & Wellness formulates and handcrafts their skincare products using all natural and organic ingredients. I used the Fresh Face Cleaner shortly after I got home from the Market - love it!

Pictured above is Veronika Alfaro of Mi Sota Essence. She is one of the vendors who comprise Primitiva Collective, which was founded in 2022 as an intentional community of local women artisans. She said the Polvorones D9 Edible THC Cookies (pictured below with the Traditional Mexican Cinnamon Sugar Cookie label) is her grandmother's recipe. Mill City Times posted an article on Primitiva Collective last year. 

We'll have more new vendor updates in the coming weeks.

Nettie's Green Spring Broth was over the top tasty - liquid sunshine on an overcast morning!

Have Tera Forge sharpen your knives while you shop!

Enjoying a chapati from Red Wolf Chai - they're so good!

We're not sure if this cool vehicle belongs to a vendor or shopper - but it was definitely photo-worthy! :D

See more photos from the May 6th Mill City Farmers Market here.

2023 Stone Arch Bridge Festival Collector’s Poster

The Stone Arch Bridge Festival recently revealed the 2023 Collector’s Poster by Minnesota artist Randall J Peterson. Each year the festival selects an artist to capture the spirit of the Minneapolis Riverfront for a special limited release poster. The 2023 poster features an elegantly illustrated view of the Stone Arch Bridge and the downtown Minneapolis skyline.

Peterson works in the intricate style of Pointillism. The delicate Pointillism technique of stippling ink on paper was introduced by French artist Georges Seurat in the late 1800s. Tones and shading are based on the position and density of the dots applied.

“Over the years, I have come to understand the true meaning and value of passion, patience and persistence in life. These qualities when combined together bring any vision to life. Whether I am speaking to a group of art students or folks who stop by at my art shows, it is my focus to let it be known that we all have our special gifts. With passion, patience and persistence any dream of creativity is born.” Randall Peterson

Peterson will be a featured artist at the festival this year. The 2023 Collector’s Poster and other works by Peterson will be available for purchase at his booth (#126) near the Hennepin Bridge. The image will also be featured on a reusable tote bag available for purchase at all festival information booths. View his work on https://www.etsy.com/shop/TraditionalArtwork and https://www.instagram.com/randall.peterson.art/.

2023 marks the 27th Stone Arch Bridge Festival. It is one of the Twin Cities' largest and longest running festivals with a strong of tradition of bringing art, music and community to the Minneapolis Riverfront on Father’s Day weekend.

This years dates are Saturday, June 17, 10a-7p and Sunday, June 18, 10a-5p.

The festival runs along West River Parkway from N 4th Avenue and S 11th Avenue.

Chef Gavin Kaysen Partners with opsi, a Workflow App for Chefs

James Beard Award-Winning Chef Stands Behind New Culinary App to Empower Kitchen Teams

Gavin Kaysen announces his partnership with opsi, a workflow app for chefs. Known across the country for his award-winning restaurants and advocacy for the culinary profession, Kaysen was opsi’s first investor and advisor.

Gavin Kaysen“If there is one thing our profession has fallen behind on, it is the power and benefit of technology. James [Passafaro] came to me with this idea years ago and we have piloted the program at Spoon and Stable, Demi, Bellecour and beyond,” Kaysen said. “It is a program that helps us with efficiency, savings and above all else consistency. I am excited to see this type of program make it into not only my kitchen, but the many kitchens it will help moving forward.”

James Passafaro and Matt Luckey founded opsi in 2019. Passafaro recognized a need for workflow tools for use in restaurant kitchens, and created opsi because he knew the best solutions would come from directly involving industry professionals.

James PassaforaShortly after Passafaro began to work on opsi, Kaysen approached him to become Chef de Cuisine at Spoon and Stable. Passafaro took on the role and shared the platform he was working on with Kaysen, who recognized the value of opsi and wanted to participate in its growth. Together, Kaysen and Passafaro incubated and tested opsi in Spoon and Stable’s kitchen, building the platform into what it is today.

"Chef GK and I share the same belief that opsi should be developed from the ground up by those who will use it. That is why our partnership with GK is so valuable to me,” Passaforo says. “We extensively tested opsi at Spoon and Stable before introducing it to other teams, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. This only reinforces my belief that those who work with these tools such as chefs, operators, and their teams deserve a say in the ongoing development of opsi."

Matt LuckeyPassafaro remained at Spoon and Stable until 2022 when he left his sixteen-year career as a chef to work on opsi full-time.

Kaysen and Passafaro share the belief that hospitality is a human-centered business. With their focus on providing comprehensive resources for chefs and their kitchen teams, opsi’s wants to bring the same approach to their technology solutions that Kaysen does to his restaurants.

As opsi’s growth advances, Passafaro and Kaysen will continue to work together to keep human-centered technology at the center of the company’s vision.

Glenwood Avenue Closing for Reconstruction on May 8

Excerpt from the City of Minneapolis May 5 e-news:

Hennepin County sent us this notification today that we are forwarding to all residents:

As part of Hennepin County's planned improvements to Glenwood Avenue (County Road 40), sections of the roadway between Aldrich Avenue North to East Lyndale Avenue North will close on May 8.  

The project enhances Glenwood Avenue’s infrastructure ahead of the construction of the Royalston Avenue Light Rail Station. New features will enhance connections to the surrounding neighborhoods and coming transit options – particularly for people walking, biking and rolling.  

Glenwood Avenue closures by section

To assist with access to the area, we will be working in different sections of Glenwood and will reopen parts of the roadway throughout the summer as work is completed. Dates are subject to change.

Between Aldrich Avenue North and West Lyndale Avenue North 

• Closes May 8
• Reopens late August 

Between West Lyndale Avenue North and East Lyndale Avenue North 

• Closes May 8
• Reopens early June

Between East Lyndale Avenue North and the light rail bridge construction site on Glenwood Avenue 

• Closes May 8
• Reopens early June 

At the intersection of Glenwood Avenue and East Lyndale Avenue North

• Closes June 7
• Closes late June

The West Lyndale Avenue intersection will remain open until work has been completed at the East Lyndale Avenue North intersection, at which point it will close for two months.

We will send a separate notification when that closure is officially scheduled. 

We expect all work to be completed by late August.

Detours

People driving are advised to use Highway 55 as their detour route. Access to local destinations will remain open. This includes the Minneapolis Farmer's Market, Farmer's Market Annex, and Unleashed Hounds and Hops, which people driving can access from Border Avenue off Highway 55. The International Market Square building will still be accessible via Glenwood from the west. Catholic Charities and Simpson Housing Services can only be accessed via East Lyndale Avenue.

People walking are advised to use Van White Boulevard and Dunwoody Avenue to cross under Highway 94. People walking may also use the Irene Hixon Whitney Bridge that connects the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to Loring Park.

Stay Informed

For questions, please contact:

Stan Lim, construction project manager

612-596-0292

stanley.lim@hennepin.us

For more information about the planned work and to receive updates on the progress of construction, visit https://www.hennepin.us/glenwood-mpls.

FINNOVATION Fellowship Calls for Entrepreneurs Passionate About Creating Social Impact

Applications now being accepted for early-stage social entrepreneurs with bold ideas for sustainable businesses with positive impact.

FINNOVATION Institute, the nonprofit arm of FINNOVATION Lab, recently announced applications are open for the sixth consecutive immersive Fellowship Program, which helps early-stage impact entrepreneurs build leadership and business acumen as they develop innovative social business models. Up to nine fellows will join a growing community of local business leaders creating lasting impact in their communities.

Program curriculum focuses on leadership development, business strategy, and creating financially sustainable business models with a clear social impact. Each fellow will receive a $50,000 living stipend, $3,000 health care stipend, access to an ecosystem of advisors and mentors, and dedicated workspace in the FINNOVATION Lab in downtown Minneapolis.

“This is an opportunity for budding leaders to refine their skills and grow ideas into mission-driven businesses, while we take care of their living expenses. What’s more, this network provides meaningful support and connections along the way” said Connie Rutledge, CEO at FINNOVATION Institute. “Ideal candidates are lifelong learners and problem solvers who are passionate about applying the tools of business to create a lasting, scalable social or environmental impact.”

Applicants should have a strong tie to Minnesota, a growth mindset, a deep understanding of a social or environmental issue they want to solve, and an idea or method to tackle the issue through entrepreneurship. All areas of impact are welcome. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to build their business in a community of like-minded, mission-driven peers and experienced mentors. The Fellowship Program has fostered an impressive ecosystem of sustainable social impact businesses.

Of the 31 fellows in cohorts 1-4, well over half continue to build the businesses they developed during the Fellowship Program. An additional 20% have taken leadership positions related to social impact, innovation, and entrepreneurial support. A few alumni highlights include:

● Junita Flowers (Cohort 1): Founder of Junita’s Jar, a mission-driven cookie company carried in Target stores nationwide, and a featured BIPOC brand in February 2023. Cookie purchases support creative approaches to ending relationship violence.

● Shaunie Grigsby (Cohort 2): Opened Flava Café, becoming the second Black-owned coffee shop in the Twin Cities. With a mission to build job skills and confidence in young women of color and non-binary people, Flava supplies St. Paul with delicious coffee and future leaders. Shaunie is recognized by Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal as a 2023 Women in Business honoree.

Marlee James● Marlee (Dorsey) James (Cohort 3): Founder of Reviving Roots Therapy & Wellness, a Black-centered wellness center expected to open in Minneapolis this year.

● Ashleyn Przedwiecki (Cohort 4): Founder of LUUM Collective, a sustainable event design agency launched in 2022. LUUM has brought together hundreds of wedding and event professionals at educational events, built an online directory of audited vendors, and developed a food recovery program for venues and caterers.

● Jennifer Glickstein (Cohort 5): Founder of Dress Up to Calm Down, which has launched pre-orders for a new line of weighted clothing for children with sensory disorder and anxiety.

“Now, more than ever, entrepreneurs can make a huge impact through business. We’re helping them to lead the way.” said Jacquie Berglund, founder of FINNEGANS Brew Co. and FINNOVATION Lab. “The Fellowship Program was founded with the goal of harnessing entrepreneurial spirit, providing educational opportunities to build practical skills and logistics, and turning ideas into functioning businesses. It’s been incredible to see our fellows succeed – and the next cohort will add even more ingenuity to this evolving community.”

Applications will be accepted through May 14 and the program runs September 2023 through June 2024. The sixth cohort will be selected by a group of community leaders and alumni of the Fellowship Program. The program is operated by the FINNOVATION Institute, a 501c3 funded by a grant from the Bush Foundation, which is known for its commitment to innovation and creative problem solving.

Interested applicants are encouraged to attend one of the following information sessions and the FINNale event to learn more:

May 8 – 12-1pm / Virtual

June 15 – 5-7pm / In Person

More details about FINNOVATION Lab and the Institute’s Fellowship Program, including application information, eligibility requirements and frequently asked questions, are available at finnovationinstitute.org.

The 2023 Mill City Farmers Market Season Opens May 6, and it's Going to be a Glorious Year!

The Mill City Farmers Market (MCFM) will open its 2023 outdoor season this Saturday, May 6th from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Look forward to 115 rotating small local businesses, including a record number of new vendors. Enjoy a wide variety of local and sustainable businesses including farmers, food makers, textile and ceramic artists, jewelers, bakers, skin and body care, prepared food vendors and more.

The list of May 6th vendors is posted online, including the following new vendors Morning Glory Farm and Gardens, TunTum BlackHill Farm, Yummitizers, Krishna's Delight, For They Skincare & Wellness, Get Bentz Farm, Minneapolis Mehndi & Henna, Primitiva Collective, Spoon and Theory Handmade, Tare Market, and WAAM Industries. Find more info on new vendors here.

Programming at the Market will be back in full force this season after scaling down in previous years due to the pandemic. Mill City Cooks (MCC) will be on the first and third Saturdays of each month for chef-led cooking demos with market ingredients. Power of Produce (PoP) Club, a food access program that gives children the opportunity to try a new fruit or vegetable in exchange for a $2 market token, will be held on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month.

Mill City Cooks returns in 2023! Look for these demos twice per month. Nettie Colón kicks it off May 6th, with Jenny Breen and Beth Jones also returning to share their vast knowledge. View the 2023 line up: https://millcityfarmersmarket.org/cooks/PoP Club (Power Of Produce) will be paired with Story Time with the Guthrie on the second Saturdays of each month for Mill City Kids Day. In addition to Story Time and PoP, on second Saturdays the Market will welcome Babycake’s Book Stack, a mobile bookstore that carries a highly curated inventory of books designed to include the culture and/or languages of the indigenous, immigrants, refugees, African American and many other backgrounds from our community.

MCFM has championed for the local food movement and put farmers first since its founding in 2006 by farm-to-table pioneer and James Beard nominated restauranteur Brenda Langton. While not all of its vendors are USDA Certified Organic, they all adhere to the Market’s Sustainability Statement, which, in addition to a 25% Local Sourcing Standard, supports healthy soils, sustainable water use, humane treatment of livestock, honorable workplace practices and rejects synthetic inputs and GMO seed.

MCFM is also the first zero-waste market in Minnesota, with over 90% of market waste being diverted from the landfill each season.

Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours Announces 2023 Events

Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours is celebrating its 5th anniversary this year. Book a tour to learn about the Mississippi River and its ecosystems, regional history and its impact on our lives, and how Paddle Bridge sees its role as river stewards and is working to improve access to this beautiful and natural resource for all. There are multiple tours to chose from, ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours in duration:

City of Birds Tour - Meet at Boom Island and shuttle up to Anoka County Riverfront Regional Park. After a paddle skill introduction on land, you’ll wind downriver past islands and under bridges, toward the old Port of Minneapolis. You’ll pause to gawk at the squawking residents of two special islands that make up the great blue heron rookery - or as they like to call it, the City of Birds - also home to great egrets and cormorants and turtles.

Mississippi River Gorge Adventure - This trip starts with a shuttle pickup outside Sea Salt Eatery at Minnehaha Falls Regional Park. After a short drive up to Bohemian Flats Park, experienced guides will give a short safety and paddling demo before setting off with you on a 6.5-mile journey through the beautiful Mississippi River Gorge.

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Heart of Minneapolis Tour - Find out what puts “Minne” in Minneapolis. After a paddle skill introduction on Boom Island, you’ll head upriver toward the old industrial Port of Minneapolis on the Northside. On the way back down, enjoy the river’s current and a close-up skyline view.

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Full Moon Floatilla - This monthly special tour will start in the golden hours of the day. Working your way from Thomas Beach on the south shore of Bde Maka Ska, you'll navigate the channel to Lake of the Isles as the moon takes over the sky and nocturnal wildlife emerges.

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Happy Hour Sunset Tour - A lite version of the Heart of Minneapolis tour, this paddle begins in the magic hour and ends as darkness falls, in and out of the Boom Island marina. Catch long shadows and soft orange glows on the downtown skyline and learn some of the history that makes this spot special.

Additionally, custom tours can be arranged.

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Additionally, you can Paddle Bridge can customize private outings to meet the needs of your group. Drop them an email at info@paddlebridge.com with your needs.

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Monthly Tour Spotlight 

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All of our adventures have unique elements that make each a special experience. That said, there are seasons when specific tours are particularly impressive and worth planning for. As part of celebrating our 5th anniversary in 2023, we’re featuring one of our tours every month and offering discounts on select dates to help you experience what makes each of our paddles special.

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May: Custom Outings and Lessons

June: City of Birds (discounted dates: 6/14, 6/23, 6/30) 

July: Heart of Minneapolis (discounted dates TBD)

August: Happy Hour Sunset (discounted dates TBD) 

September: Mississippi River Gorge Adventure (discounted dates TBD)

October: Special Tours: Full Moon Floatilla and Saint Paul

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Special Events for Avid Paddlers!

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Mississippi River Paddle Weekend, June 9-11, organized by Two Paddles, offers competitive and recreational divisions for races, tours and relays of any paddling style (canoe, kayak, SUP) on the Mississippi River. Lengths vary from 5- to 150-mile sections between Brainerd and Minneapolis. Entering its second year, the event will welcome over 200 participants from the U.S., Canada and beyond, and provide paddlers of all levels a chance to experience the river's natural beauty and promote an accessible and diverse paddling community. Community-accessible equipment rental and registration discounts are available.

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About the races:

• The MR 150 is a multi-day ultra endurance race that begins at 3:00 pm, Friday, June 9, in Brainerd. Individuals, tandems and teams—in their choice of racing or recreational divisions—have 50 hours to paddle the 150-mile length of the Mississippi River in self-powered watercraft.

• All other events—the MR 48, MR 25 (with relay option), MR 10 and MR 7.5 (in partnership with Paddle Bridge Guide Collective)—take place on Sunday, June 11. The races and tours launch in the north Metro from a variety of starting points along the Mississippi River. These events are open to solo, tandem and team paddlers in both racing and recreational divisions.

Also on June 11, the MR Family Challenge and MR High School Challenge (sponsored by the Minnesota Canoe Association) are 5-mile racing and recreational events for families and teens of all skill levels that start at Peninsula Point Park in Anoka.

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Paddle Bridge disclaimer:

The route and duration of all our tours are subject to flexibility depending on weather conditions, water level, flow-rate, and group dynamics. Our guides take all of these elements into account in order to make everyone’s experience enjoyable and safe.

Thank You to All Who Participated in the Great River Coalition 2023 Earth Day Bee Run/Walk/River Clean Up Event

Great River Coalition extends a huge Thank You to all who helped make the 2023 Earth Day Bee Run/Walk/River Clean Up event at Boom Island Park and BF Nelson Park a success!

Rory, the official mascot of Minnesota Aurora FC, was on hand to cheer on participants.

Honey (a.k.a. Great River Coalition President Diane Hofstede) with mascot Buzz and Mayor Frey. 

Buzz and Honey (Diane Hofstede) with former member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, Phyllis Kahn. Among her many achievements, Representative Kahn was the chief author of the Minnesota Clean Indoor Air Act (controlling smoking in public places) and authored laws to require gender equity in athletics (the state law strengthened the federal Title IX regulations). A former Minneapolis City Council Member, Hofstede was instrumental in the legalization of beekeeping in Minneapolis.

Kids had the opportunity to build bird houses as part of the festivities.

Founded in 2014, Great River Coalition is a 501(c)(3) committed to a healthy, sustainable environment and our pollinators. The first annual Earth Day Run/Walk/River Cleanup event was held in 2016.

2023 event photos will be posted on Facebook in the near future.

Dine, Drink and Discover with Minnesota Les Dames d'Escoffier's First Online Culinary Silent Auction

Minnesota Les Dames d'Escoffier's popular culinary silent auction, which promises unique dining and drink experiences you won’t find anywhere but here, is going online May 1-13. Funds raised by the auction support local women in the culinary fields through academic scholarships and professional grants, as well as high school youth through Urban Roots, a Mill City Farmers Market vendor.

Past Dame It! events have included an in-person sampling of gourmet food and drinks, along with a silent auction, but as the dine-out world has shifted, Dame It! has adapted to provide this robust online experience everyone can participate in.

What’s compelling about this auction is that the majority of items focus on personal experiences provided by Les Dames members, as opposed to items you can find elsewhere in stores or the Internet.

The auction will go live at 8am on May 1 and can be accessed here. The last bid will be taken prior to 6pm on May 13, and winners will be notified how to receive their items.

Among the items to bid on are:

- Dine out with a member of the Star Tribune’s Taste staff at one of its review features;

- A private cooking class for 12 by award-winning cookbook author Amalia Moreno-Damgaard based on her recent travels to Oaxaca, Mexico, and the Guatemalan Mayan highlands;

- Chowgirls Catering founders Heidi Andermack and Amy Brown will guide guests in the Art of the Board, including both the ingredients and the architecture of an artisan grazing board;

- A 4-hour baking class for two by Kim Ode, a baking instructor who led the Star Tribune’s Baking Central feature for many years, at Kim’s home in Edina;

- A private, customizable wine tasting for 6 led by wine expert Allison Sheardy at Quincy Street Kitchens in Northeast Minneapolis.

In addition, there are numerous wine experiences with sommeliers, meals prepared in your home by professional chefs, a takeaway lifestyle box from Paris Dining Club, as well as picnic ingredients and cooking accouterments - all in time for Mother’s Day gifts or the start of summer entertaining.

Chloe by Vincent is Now Serving Sunday Brunch

Savory buckwheat crepe

Delicious news! Chloe by Vincent, 700 Third Street S, is now serving Sunday brunch, 10a-2:30pm. Make your reservation here. We very much enjoy the food, drinks, service and all-around vibe at Chloe - they are a valued addition to the neighborhood!

Minneapolis Convention Center Recognized for Achievement of Sustainability

MCC Earns Gold Certification for Events Industry Council Sustainable Event Standards

The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) recently announced it has achieved Gold Level certification for the Events Industry Council (EIC) Sustainable Event Standards. 

The EIC Sustainable Event Standards are specific standards for environmental and social responsibility within the events industry. Created by the EIC Sustainability Committee in partnership with industry professionals and leading sustainability practitioners, the requirements provide event planners and suppliers with prescriptive actions for producing and delivering sustainable events. 

“This is great news for the Minneapolis Convention Center and all of us working to make Minneapolis the sustainable destination choice for meeting and event planners,” said Jeff Johnson, MCC Executive Director. “Achieving this not only recognizes our industry-leading sustainability efforts, but also provides a roadmap for measuring and improving our sustainable event programs on an ongoing basis.”  

In addition to its EIC certification, previous sustainability recognition for the MCC includes:

• Leader in Sustainability by the Green Meeting Industry Council (GMIC)
• LEED v4 Certification for Existing Building Operations and Maintenance
• Silver certification under the Sustainable SITES Initiative rating system for achievement in landscape sustainability for the redesigned MCC Plaza – the nation’s first SITES certified project to be located at a convention center and the first ever SITES certified project in the Upper Midwest  

The MCC is a proud and proven industry leader in sustainability. Highlights include:

• A stormwater catchment system that annually prevents up to 5 million gallons of rainwater runoff from entering the Mississippi River by redirecting it to an underground storage system used for the facility’s irrigation
• More than 2,600 solar panels on the MCC’s rooftop which supply 5% of the 100% renewable energy used – the other remaining 95% comes from Xcel Energy’s locally sourced wind and solar energy
• The 2.5-acre MCC Plaza, downtown Minneapolis’ most sustainable public green space, built on top of an underground parking deck and features an urban meadow planted with native tree, wildflower and prairie grass species to create downtown’s largest pollinator refuge

"We are delighted to see a major facility such as Minneapolis Convention Center continue its commitment to sustainability,” said Amy Calvert, EIC CEO. “This certification demonstrates a strong commitment to the environmentally and socially responsible practices that are needed to support long-term sustainability in our industry." 

The EIC Sustainable Event Standards specify performance criteria in the areas of organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management, diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact. 

BPA iCompli Sustainability, a division of BPA Worldwide, a nonprofit international auditing organization headquartered in Shelton, Conn., developed the certification protocols for EIC Sustainable Event Standards and performed the independent third-party certification of the MCC’s compliance with the Venue standard. 

"Our certification to the event sustainability standards created by EIC, and now adopted by the Minneapolis Convention Center, continues our long-standing commitment to promote transparency in the events industry,” noted Richard Murphy, President and CEO of BPA Worldwide. 

For more information on the MCC’s sustainability initiatives, visit www.minneapolis.org/minneapolis-convention-center/about/sustainability/.

MPRB Seasonal Maintenance Update: New Online Map Shows Real-time Drinking Fountain Status

After a heatwave and snow all in a few days, more traditional spring weather seems to be taking hold. Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) staff have been monitoring the forecast all along and working to open park restrooms, turn on drinking fountains and bottle-filler stations and start up other seasonal plumbing.

New: Online map shows drinking fountain status

The map shows where and when drinking fountains are operating in parks, along trails, at golf courses and other places in the park system. Click on the dot for each fountain to see its features and when it was turned on or off or closed for repairs. 

The map can help park users when planning activities, especially in spring and fall when seasonal preparations are underway. It's available at minneapolisparks.org/fountains or minneapolisparks.org/drinking-fountains.

Priorities for plumbing start-up

In general, staff turn on water at park facilities in the following order. Priorities are based on site type and water functions, with exceptions for special needs, such as garden irrigation.  

• High-use buildings and rental sites (picnics, weddings, events)
  
  
• Exterior restrooms and drinking fountains 
  
  
• Irrigation and decorative fountains

Coming in May: Updates on openings for wading pools and splash pads, Webber Natural Swimming Pool, and Lupient and North Commons water parks. (Note: Webber and some other pools are filled before they officially open.)

Thanks for your patience and support during spring maintenance season in the parks.

Find out more about maintenance in the Minneapolis park system.

April 2023 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via an April 21 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is constructing a new parallel storm tunnel, enlarging a portion of the existing storm tunnel, and constructing a new tunnel access in Downtown Minneapolis.

The new tunnel is being constructed parallel to the existing tunnel located under Washington Ave S between Nicollet Mall and Chicago Ave. The existing tunnel under Chicago Ave between Washington Ave S and the Mississippi River is being expanded to handle the increased stormwater capacity. The purpose of this project is to reduce pressure in the existing tunnel, provide more room for future growth, and to reduce the need for future repairs and tunnel failures.

Project Map

Latest Project News

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews have completed excavation of the existing storm tunnel at the Mississippi River for the season and will resume later this fall when they can access the storm flow again. Until then, crews will continue to work on lining the tunnel with concrete and will be on site through May.

2nd Ave

• Crews have completed mining the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection for the season. Crews will continue to work on lining the tunnel with concrete through the summer.

Portland Ave

• Crews have completed mining the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection for the season. Crews will continue to work on lining the tunnel with concrete through the summer.

Tunneling Progress

In April, the project reached 97% completion with excavation. Crews have removed approximately 67,800 tons of material to date. As noted in the infographic above, this is equal to the weight of 6.7 Eiffel Towers. The final excavation will occur next winter.

Lining progress

In April, crews continued to work on the concrete tunnel lining. To date, 2,150 cubic yards of concrete have been poured. As noted in the infographic above, this is about 65% of the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 13.5% complete.

Long-term closures/restrictions

The north westbound lane, bike lane, and parking lane remains closed on Washington Ave between Portland Ave and Park Ave. These closures will remain in place until the project is completed.

• During this closure, pedestrians can still use the sidewalks along Washington Ave.
• Crosswalks across Washington Ave and Portland Ave will remain open.
• Bicyclists will share the traffic lane.
• The existing left turn lane on Washington Ave at the Portland Ave intersection will temporarily become a left turn and through lane.

The north sidewalk along Washington Ave remains restricted between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall.

• During these restrictions, pedestrians share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
• The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave remains open.

The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains restricted through the end of the project. The dewatering well and pumps are installed in this area.

• Pedestrians can use the sidewalk on the west side of 4th Ave S.
• The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 4th Ave intersection remains open.
• Access to driveways off 4th Ave S remains open.

The west sidewalk of Portland Ave south of Washington Ave will remain restricted to pedestrians around the dewatering well and pumps until the project is completed.

The parking lot and trail near Mill Runs Park will open May 1.

• During May, the trail will have flaggers to allow concrete trucks to pull into and out of the work site.

2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S. Access will be restricted until the project is completed.

• Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

NEW: Project timing update:

When is the project going to be done?

• The anticipated project completion date is June of 2024.

I thought that you were supposed to be done this year?

• When initially awarded the contract for the Central City Parallel Tunnel (CCPT) project, the anticipated completion was summer of 2023. Due to multiple construction obstacles the project schedule has been adjusted to a later date.

What were some of the obstacles?

• While performing work in the storm tunnel outlet located in the Mill Ruins Park near the Stone Arch bridge, crews uncovered historically significant underground structures.
• Crews had to excavate more soil and debris material from over the tunnel than initially anticipated, some of which was contaminated.
• Because work in portions of the tunnel is in an active stormwater flow, some work can only occur during a five-month window of time due to safety issues.

A note from the project team

We know that a later completion date will not be great news for many residents, businesses, or visitors that live and work in the areas of aboveground work sites, but we wanted to convey this information to you in order to set a realistic expectation for the revised project timeline. We also realize that the noise and activity associated with construction projects is an inconvenience and undesirable to those residents and businesses who are in close proximity to the job sites. It is the goal of Public Works to minimize our construction timeline and disturbance to the public. The CCPT project is crucial to the City, as it services most of our downtown area. The new storm tunnel will be able to convey stormwater much more effectively from the downtown district to the river during high-intensity rain events.

The project has worked to address all concerns and issues brought to our attention to date, and we will continue to do so moving forward.  As always, you can communicate with us via the project website and communications number with any concerns or issues you might have. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Stay Connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/central-city-tunnel/

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

What You Need to Know About the June 10 Community Connections Conference

Minneapolis residents can sign up now for the free 2023 Community Connections Conference on June 10. This year's theme, "Minneapolis in motion," welcomes all communities to explore how Minneapolis is growing, moving and changing, including through the City’s 2023-2024 priorities. The conference will run together with the 2023 Green Zone Summit for environmental justice.

The Community Connections Conference is a free annual event for residents, community groups, neighborhood organizations and local government to build relationships, learn together and create a better Minneapolis.

The 2023 conference will feature:

• Workshops and other breakout sessions in multiple languages. The subjects include renters’ rights, responsible development and worker well-being, creative expression and emotional release for incarcerated people through the community-based organization FreeWriters, building relationships with youths in challenging environments, recycling and organics, climate action, and creating a plan for saving energy at home.
• An exhibit hall showcasing more than 100 organizations with fun, interactive activities for both kids and adults.
• Opportunities to learn about City policies, programs and services.
• Lunch provided by local food vendors.
• Performances by local artists.

Community Connections Conference and Green Zone Summit
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 10
(Check-in starts and exhibit hall opens at 8 a.m.)
Minneapolis Convention Center, Hall A, Lower Level
Pre-registration is on the City website.

Call for breakout sessions, exhibits and volunteers

Community members can sign up by April 30 to lead a workshop, roundtable, panel or presentation.

Nonprofits and public institutions can apply for free exhibit space by April 30.

Volunteers can help spread the word about the conference, welcome guests, guide people to breakout sessions and keep lunch services running smoothly. Bilingual volunteers are especially helpful. The volunteer signup button is in the conference pre-registration form on the City website.

Register to attend the conference

Everyone is welcome to read more and register for the free Community Connections Conference on the City website.

Register for the April 22 Earth Day Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup by Tomorrow, April 21!

Please help save our bees! Join Great River Coalition’s Earth Day Bee Run, Walk & River Clean Up at Boom Island Park, 729 Sibley Street NE.

- Designed T shirts with each paid entry, prizes, coffee, water, food, nuts, bananas

- Chance to win 4 MInnesota Vikings tickets,  US Bank Stadium, premium seats, Flat Screen TV,

- Booths, DJ, professional photographer, kids race, dog friendly, gorgeous run, walk 

Register!

Steve Cramer Announces Retirement From mpls downtown council and Mpls DID

Via an April 19 e-announcement

The mpls downtown council (mdc) and Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) announced today that Steve Cramer, president and CEO, will be retiring from the organization in December.

Steve CramerSteve Cramer has been a long-time champion and advocate for our city and community. He joined the organization in 2013 and has since led many important initiatives for downtown. He will wrap up his work later this year, but until then continues to remain focused on downtown’s next season.

Cramer has been a steady force behind many development and public realm projects, expanded community partnership to improve downtown conditions, advocated for common sense business regulations, and provided visible leadership over the challenging past few years.

“I have enjoyed working with Steve during my time on the mdc-DID board of directors. He has brought clear direction and focus to our collective work for downtown during an unprecedented season. Prior to that he helped our downtown reach new heights and levels of momentum,” said Karin Lucas, board chair of the mpls downtown council and Downtown Improvement District. “Steve has grown and positioned the organization for the future. We will certainly miss his leadership and wish him well in retirement.”

 “My bet is on downtown Minneapolis!” - Steve Cramer

During Cramer’s tenure, the organization along with roughly 450 members, hundreds of stakeholders, and ratepayers, have played a key role in advocating for downtown, ensuring downtown continues to thrive and maintain its trajectory of attracting new businesses, employees, residents, and investment. There are now 56,748 downtown residents within downtown’s five neighborhoods. More than 8.5 million patrons attended events last year downtown. All while providing a consistent presence within the 120-block district to keep downtown greener, cleaner, and safer.

“It’s been a privilege and pleasure to lead the mdc-DID, working with a talented and dedicated staff, hundreds of committed board members, and community leaders. This organization has charted the course forward for downtown over many decades, and that work will continue for the duration of my tenure and long into the future. I’m confident the path we are on will lead to renewed vibrancy after the historic disruptions of the last three years,” said Steve Cramer, president and ceo. “My bet is on downtown Minneapolis!”

Cramer’s impact on the downtown community will be marked by many contributions. Namely his work and dedication to improving downtown for business and community alike.

Cramer participated in the development of major public realm and infrastructure projects to enhance our downtown:

• The Commons Park
• A re-designed Nicollet
• Peavey Plaza renovation
• Hennepin Avenue reconstruction 

Cramer expanded community partnerships to improve social and security conditions downtown:

• Expanded privately supported outreach programs
• Added two embedded social workers focusing on downtown
• Launched the community storage program

Cramer advocated for common sense strategies to support our downtown:

• Business regulations
• Transportation infrastructure and funding
• Developments from affordable and luxury housing to new office buildings
• Public safety policies focused on a both/and approach

Cramer provided visible leadership for downtown stakeholders throughout the Covid pandemic and civil unrest.

Summit Academy's Northside STEM District to Host Minneapolis Students and Families May 6 at Target Plaza for Free Family Event

More than 1,000 K-8th grade students are expected to converge on Target Plaza Saturday, May 6, to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Volunteers from more than 20 Twin Cities STEM companies will guide students with hands-on activities and experiments as they uncover the wonders of STEM. Participants will:

• Code robots!
• Launch rockets!
• Fly drones!

A free shuttle will pick up participants at Summit Academy at 935 Olson Memorial Highway in Minneapolis and drop them off at the event, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Target Plaza Commons, 1001 Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis.

It is the vision of Northside STEM District to build a strong, diverse pipeline of STEM leaders and innovators within the North Minneapolis ecosystem where every student has an equitable opportunity to participate and thrive as contributing citizens within their communities.

Summit Academy OIC is an accredited, nonprofit Career and Technical Education (CTE) Institute located in North Minneapolis. Summit offers specializations and industry certifications for in-demand careers in Information Technology (IT), Construction, and Medical Administrative Assistant, delivering academic rigor alongside marketable skills and connections to employers. Our mission is to empower individuals to develop their ability to earn and become contributing citizens in their communities and economic drivers of the State of Minnesota. 

Father Hennepin Bluff Park Improvements Project Nears Completion

New restrooms open in May, fencing scheduled to come down in June, concerts return in July

A major renovation of Father Hennepin Bluff Park is nearly complete. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board would like to thank everyone for their patience while park access and use were limited since construction started last April.

The new restroom building next to the Stone Arch Bridge is expected to open in May. The construction fence around the park will remain in place throughout spring to allow areas that were seeded last fall to establish. Turf condition will be a major factor in determining when the park can fully reopen, hopefully by June. Please stay off these areas and respect signage and fencing!

Free concerts offered through Minneapolis Music in the Parks are scheduled to debut at the new stage in July. Stay tuned for more details.

Project Details

This Father Hennepin Bluff Park Improvements project includes:

• A new performance stage with seasonal restrooms
• New park entry plaza spaces
• Upgraded lights, path connections, wayfinding signage and trail markings
• Landscape and stormwater management improvements

The improvements are focused on the upper part of the park, not the lower paths closer to the Mississippi River.

Severe Weather Awareness Week is Coming; Expect Sirens April 20

April 17-21 is Severe Weather Awareness Week, when households and businesses are encouraged to practice what they’d do to stay safe if a tornado or severe weather strikes.

Expect sirens April 20

Thursday, April 20, is Tornado Drill Day. Sirens throughout the state will sound at 1:45 p.m. and at 6:45 p.m., giving people time to practice taking shelter in severe weather both at home and in the workplace. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota experiences an average of nearly 30 tornadoes per year.

Alerts

An electronic weather alert service can make you aware of any imminent weather danger with email or text notices. Check the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website for options for wireless emergency alerts and smartphone apps.

There is specific information for people with disabilities or access or functional needs about how to prepare for storm season and other emergencies.

If severe weather is approaching:

• Turn to local TV or radio or the weather channel, or make sure you have alerts enabled on a smart device or a weather radio programmed to pick up alerts inside. Weather sirens aren’t intended to be heard inside. If a warning is issued, go to the basement or an inner stairwell.
• If you’re outside and hear the weather sirens, go inside immediately and take shelter in an inner space away from windows. Don’t use elevators.
• Stay sheltered until the all-clear signal has been issued.

More about staying safe during severe weather

• Alerts and warnings
• Storms, hail and lightning
• Floods
• Tornadoes
• Extreme heat

Find emergency preparedness information on the City website.

Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look at HERC During Doors Open Minneapolis

Saturday, May 13 from 10a to 5p (open Saturday only)

The Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC) is one of the locations participating in the 2023 Doors Open Minneapolis event. It operates 24/7 to convert Minneapolis’ trash into energy, which provides electricity to 25,000 homes and heat to Target Field and downtown buildings.

Learn how HERC works and discover actions you can take to reduce waste. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the facility and the waste-to-energy process. Closed-toe shoes are required (no sandals) to participate in the portion of the tour to see the waste pit and claw that feeds trash into the furnace.

More information about Doors Open.