Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's Winter Restaurant Week is Feb 20-26

Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's Winter Restaurant Week is happening February 20 - 26. Some of the Twin Cities finest chefs will be dishing out mouth-watering two and three course prix fixe meals at prices ranging from $15 to $45.

There are over 55 participating restaurants, including some in our Downtown and riverfront neigborhoods: 

• All Saints, 222 E Hennepin Ave 
• The Freehouse, 701 Washington Ave N
• EaTo, 305 Washington Ave S 
• Cafe Lurcat, 1624 Harom Place 
• Copper Hen Cakery & Kitchen, 2515 Nicollet Ave  

How to Contact 311

Excerpt from the February 2 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Need to report an issue? Can't find the right information? Minneapolis 311 can help. 311 coordinates with City departments and service providers to report your concerns, find you information and connect you with non-emergency City services. For example, if you report an icy sidewalk or have questions about winter parking restrictions, 311 connects with the experts in the right department to get to the bottom of it.

There are many ways to get in contact with 311 for non-emergency City information. Choose what's easiest for you.

• Call 311. Agents are here to answer your call 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 311 from within city limits or 612-673-3000.
• Email 311. You can email 311 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Agents will respond 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Email Minneapolis 311.
• Text 311. You can text 311 a short question any time. Just text two or three keywords to 311TXT (311898) to receive an answer from the Minneapolis 311 information database on your mobile phone.
• Get the 311 mobile app. Report neighborhood issues on the 311 mobile app 24 hours a day.
  • Download for Android.
  • Download for iPhone.
• 311 agents use computer-based technology so hearing-impaired callers can easily communicate with the City using TDD/TTY devices. Call TTY 612-263-6850.

Use the contact form. You can send 311 your comments or questions on the website contact form.

Sensory Friendly Days at the Mill City Museum, Feb 12 and July 22

Visitors can explore modified exhibits and activities outside of regular museum hours

The Minnesota Historical Society welcomes visitors with sensory sensitivities, Autism, or developmental disabilities to Sensory Friendly Days at several metro area historic sites throughout the coming months.

Multiple MNHS sites will modify museum activities and exhibits with neurodiversity in mind. Considerations include low volume for all media shows, signs with explanations of activities, allergy signs, and take-a-break spaces. Pre-registration is required to attend Sensory Friendly Days.

Participants at these events can enjoy selected museum exhibits, short films when applicable, and hands-on activities. Sensory Friendly Days will begin one to two hours before sites open to the general public. Visitors are welcome to extend their visit into regular museum hours. Locations and dates for Sensory Friendly Days include:

Mill City Museum: Sunday, February 12, 9–10am, Theme: Valentines

Minnesota History Center: Saturday, March 25, 8:30–10am, Theme: Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition

James J. Hill House: Saturday, May 13, 9–10am, Theme: Train Day

Mill City Museum: Saturday, July 22, 9–10 am,Theme: Archaeology Day

Register and find more information about Sensory Friendly Days here.

Children’s Theatre Company's Locomotion Plays thru March 5th

The Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) production of Locomotion runs througth March 5th. Locomotion was a finalist for the National Book Award, and author Jacqueline Woodson has adapted her acclaimed work for the stage. CTC’s production is directed by Talvin Wilks, an award-winning playwright, director, and dramaturg.

 

Junie Edwards as Lonnie. Photo by Glen Stubbe PhotographyLocomotion takes the audience into the life of 11-year-old Lonnie Motion, as he finds new tools -  the result of a school poetry assignment – which help him to process the tumult of life in foster care. As Lonnie discovers the power of poetry, he experiences deeper connections to his new foster mother, his school friend Enrique, his teacher Ms. Marcus, and his beloved younger sister Lili.

 

Uprooted from his family, surrounded by the unfamiliar, Lonnie couldn’t feel more alone. But this year, his class is learning to write poetry. As Lonnie finds his voice, you’ll discover how poetry can bring you closer to others and to yourself.

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Ticket Information

 

Locomotion plays through March 5 at CTC’s Cargill Stage, 2400 3rd Avenue S. Tickets may be purchase online at childrenstheatre.org/locomotion or by calling the ticket office at 612.874.0400. Ticket prices start at $15. School groups interested in attending Locomotion can contact schools@childrenstheatre.org for more information. This production is best enjoyed by everyone age 9 and up. Due to the age recommendation, lap passes will not be available for this production.

Gamut Gallery Announces Astroturf, a Group Exhibit Featuring SoCal Architecture, Pop art and Post-painterly Abstraction Opening February 17th

Via a recent e-announcement:

Public Opening February 17, 6-9pm, $7 presale/$10 door

Gamut Gallery has announced Astroturf, their first exhibit of 2023. This group exhibit plays with the idea of appearances vs. authenticity through the iconic influence of SoCal architecture, pop art and post-painterly abstraction.

Gamut’s multimedia exhibit, in collaboration with Blu Dot, features local MN artists, Genie Castro and Nicole Mueller, along with returning SoCal artists, Human Shaped Animal and Neal Breton. Astroturf embraces bold and vivid colors, hard-edge lines and geometry, this selection of work celebrates the resurgence and influence of the mid-century movement and pop-culture Southern California suburbia.

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Installed in place of grass from as early as the 1950s, AstroTurf™ forgoes naturally growing grass for the carefree ease of owning an evergreen front lawn. In mid-century America, the synthetic material was marketed to homeowners as a means of signaling status to their neighbors through perfectly manicured landscaping year-round. Mirroring our current consumer culture of filtered images and branded content, Gamut Gallery’s first show of 2023, Astroturf, plays with the idea of appearances vs. authenticity through the iconic influence of SoCal architecture, pop art and post-painterly abstraction. Astroturf peers over the neighbor’s hedge to sneak a peek of how the Joneses really live. 

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Genie Castro’s renditions offer a nod to the midcentury design through her vibrant mono-prints and nine accompanying pieces from her 2022 collection, Lily. While Human Shape Animal incorporates tropical foliage with post-painterly abstraction to produce sculptural, yet functional, wall fixtures that incorporate living plants. Nicole Mueller’s potent images from her annual pilgrimages to Palm Springs highlight mid-century modernist architecture, with the quiet stillness of manicured lawns and majestic palms. Also lending a nod to the leisurely lifestyle, Neal Breton’s works from his Strange Paradise Collection reveal inviting pool scenes we all long for during these cold winter months. Blu Dot’s selection of locally designed and constructed furniture elevates the mid-century modern aesthetic, immersing the viewer in the movement's all-encompassing influence on art, design and culture. 

Mill City Museum Nominated for Best History Museum in the Nation

Via a January 27 e-announcement:

Photo courtesy Minnesota Historical Society

Supporters of Minnesota history can vote for the museum daily in online contest

Mill City Museum was recently named one of the nation’s best history museums, and the downtown Minneapolis site needs the public’s support to earn the top prize.

The museum is among 20 nominated for a USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award in the category of best history museum. Minnesotans can vote online once per day until the contest concludes on February 13.

“This nomination is an incredible honor,” said Mill City Museum Site Manager David Stevens. “Mill City Museum brings people together by showcasing the history of Minneapolis, and we are grateful for this opportunity that will allow more people around the country to learn about this gem.”

Visitors at the museum can learn about Minneapolis’ growth through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities which tell the intertwined histories of the flour industry, the Mississippi River, and the city of Minneapolis. Curious patrons of all ages enjoy informative multimedia shows and programs exploring the story of Minneapolis.

Guests can admire both stunning modern architecture and components of the original Washburn A Mill, which was once the world’s largest flour mill. For its incorporation of contemporary design within a history-rich setting, the museum has won several awards, including the American Institute of Architects Honor Award for Architecture and the AIA Minnesota Honor Award.

Paintings and sculptures from local artists are featured throughout the museum. Scenic views of St. Anthony Falls, Mill Ruins Park, and Stone Arch Bridge from atop the Koch Rooftop Observation Deck also provide unbeatable photo opportunities.

To vote for Mill City Museum as Best History Museum and learn more about USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards, click here. Individuals are encouraged to vote daily through February 13. 

The Next Guacaya Bistreaux’s Guest Chef Series Event is January 31

The next Guacaya Bistreaux’s Guest Chef Series is Tuesday, January 31. Chef Pedro Wolcott of Guacaya Bistreaux will welcome 2022 James Beard Award winner, Chef Sean Sherman of Owamni for the latest collaboration of the Series. The chefs will come together to serve a delicious 6-course menu, combining the flavors of Latin Caribbean and Indigenous cuisine.

Guests will need to make reservations through Tock. Diners can select either 6 p.m. or 8 p.m. seatings. Tickets are $90 per person, and optional beverage pairings can be added for an additional $50; otherwise, cocktails and mocktails created by Guacaya’s partners from Meteor Bar, plus beer, wine, and other non-alcoholic options, can be ordered à la carte.

Wilde Cafe & Spirits becomes Pivo Riverplace on February 1

Via a January 24 e-announcement:

Starting February 1st, Wilde Cafe & Spirits will be Pivo Riverplace. New decor, new logo, new website - and coming in March a new bar - while still maintaining the great brunch and coffee tradition, and riverfront patio Wilde was known for. We're also planning a new awning and windows that open to showcase the riverfront in April. Pivo Riverplace aspires to pair Art Nouveau elegance with a casual neighborhood pub atmosphere. Come "Czech" out the new look!

The name? "Riverplace" refers to our location as part of the Riverplace complex on historic Main Street, the oldest street in Minneapolis. "Pivo" means beer in 78 languages (Czech, Ukrainian, etc.), as we aspire to be the best pilsner focused pub in Minnesota.

January 2023 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a January 23, 2023 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. This project is anticipated to be completed summer 2023.

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 continue enlarging the existing storm tunnel at the Mississippi River.

2nd Ave

• Crews continue tunneling 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 and have begun lining the tunnel with concrete.

Portland Ave

• Crews continue tunneling 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 and have begun lining the tunnel with concrete.

Tunneling progress

In January, the project reached 71% completion with excavation. Crews have removed approximately 52,500 tons of material to date. As noted in this infographic, 52,500 tons is equal to the weight of more than five Eiffel Towers.

Lining progress

In January, crews began working on the concrete tunnel lining. They poured around 1,200 cubic yards of concrete. As noted in this infographic, 1,200 cubic yards is equal to about one third the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 8.5% 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. This is necessary for the contractor to utilize the existing shaft to connect the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
  • 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. The contractor will resume tunneling from the existing tunnel to the new tunnel at a later date.
  • 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 remain closed until spring 2023.

• 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.

What to expect

• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
• Schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Stay connected

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. 

No Dog Left Behind Adoption Event - February 11 at Douglas Dayton YMCA at Gaviidae

Dog Adoption Event!

Saturday, February 11, 11am– 2pm

Join No Dog Left Behind at the Douglas Dayton YMCA at Gaviidae for their "pawsome" Dog Adoption Event. This event is free and open to the public. Stop by and meet rescue pups, all of which are looking for their "furever" homes. After you're finished cuddling up with some cute dogs, earn yourself YMCA swag and prizes by playing NDLB's spin-to-win game. They will also have how-to guides on making a "bark-cuterie" board.

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Enter through the Gaviidae entrance near 6th Street. Street or ramp parking is available. Questions? Please email Alicia at alicia@ndlbrescue.org.

Firefighters For Healing's Transitional Healing Center Officially Opens

Ward 7 Council Member Lisa Goodman and Mayor Frey look on as Jake LaFerriere, Founder/Executive Director, did the honors at the January 18 ribbon cutting ceremony.

Firefighters For Healing's Transitional Healing Center has officially opened. It features 12 “home-away-from-home” suites for the families of burn survivors or firefighters/first responders who are being cared for at the Hennepin Healthcare Burn Center and other metro hospitals.

See the details here, and Click here for the KARE11 spotlight.

Children’s Theatre Company's Upcoming Production of Corduroy set for Feb 14 - Apr 2

Corduroy, winner of the American Alliance for Theatre & Education “Distinguished Play” Award, will play from February 14 – April 2 at Children’s Theatre Company's UnitedHealth Group Stage. Opening Night is Saturday, February 18 at 7pm. Purchase tickets online at childrenstheatre.org/corduroy or by calling the ticket office at 612-874-0400. Ticket prices start at $15.  

Join the beloved teddy bear as he takes a rollicking ride up the escalator and begins a delightfully destructive romp through every section of the department store. Will he find his button at the top of a teetering store display? Will Lisa ever get to bring him home, or will the bumbling security guard catch him first? Where, oh where, is Corduroy’s BUTTON?

 

The Star Tribune hails Corduroy as “ebullient…utterly delightful” and the St. Paul Pioneer Press raves that it “leaves its audience delightfully impaired by extreme laughter.” Don’t miss this delightful and wonderfully comic tale of friendship.

“Corduroy, with its title character’s quest for his missing button, is the story of a little toy bear’s very real need to find a ‘Friend’ and a place to call home, along with that of a little girl’s corresponding need to bring that bear home - as a Friend,” says Playwright Barry Kornhauser. “I’m absolutely delighted that this little adaptation of that story has found a home once again with all of its ‘Friends’ at Children’s Theatre Company where the play was first nurtured and produced. It is always a gift and a joy to work with Peter [Brosius] and his brilliant and passionate team as they bring classic children’s literature to life so vividly, so imaginatively, and so lovingly. Corduroy may have lost a button, but Corduroy has found its way back to the CTC stage, and for that I am ‘beary’ grateful.”  

 

“It is such a joy to bring Corduroy to our stage,” said Corduroy Director and CTC Artistic Director Peter C. Brosius. “This is a story that touches our hearts and has us rolling in laughter. Barry Kornhauser has brought his brilliant comic mind to this adaptation and created a truly delightful play of friendship, persistence and determination and what it means to never give up on your dreams. Corduroy inspires us all with his heart and his hope and we can’t wait to share it with you.”

School groups interested in attending Corduroy can contact schools@childrenstheatre.org for more information. This production is best enjoyed by everyone age 4 and up. Lap passes are available for children 3 years and younger. Runtime: ​90 minutes with one 15-minute intermission. 

The Book Club Play comes to Theatre in the Round Jan 27 to Feb 19

Theatre in the Round Presents 

THE BOOK CLUB PLAY BY KAREN ZACARÍAS

January 27 to February 19

Audience discussion follows the performances on February 12

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) continues its 71st season with the light-hearted comedy about books and the people who love them. The Book Club Play runs weekends January 27 to February 19, with a Monday Pay-What-You-Can performance on February 6.  

Laughter and literature collide in this smart comedy about Ana, a tightly wound bibliophile who seems to have it all: an adoring husband, the perfect job and her greatest passion - Book Club. But when her cherished group becomes the focus of a documentary film, their intimate discussions about life and literature take a turn for the hilarious in front of the inescapable camera lens. Shanan Custer directs the seven-member cast with sets designed by Greg Vanselow, costumes by Rebecca Karstad, lighting by Dietrich Poppen, props by Bobbie Smith, and sound by Scott Gilbert.

The Book Club Play runs January 27 to February 10. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm.

Tickets are $25. For information, call the theatre’s box office at 612-333-3010 or visit its website at www.TheatreintheRound.org. Book clubs of 6 or more that wish to come as a group have access to $18 tickets by calling the box office or emailing tix@theatreintheround.org and mentioning the “Book Club Deal.”

Minneapolis Businesses Come Together to Donate Winter Clothing to Hennepin Healthcare

Left to right: Jennifer DeCubellis, Melvin Tennant, Lester Bagley, Lisa Goodman, Tykia Hess, RN

For the past month, Minneapolis partner businesses and individuals came together to gather new, warm clothes for Hennepin Healthcare patients through the Meet Minneapolis Warm Winter Clothing Drive. On January 5th more than 370 items were donated for distribution to patients in need at the Hennepin Healthcare Clinic and Specialty Center.

Per Melvin Tennant, Meet Minneapolis President and CEO, “Minneapolis neighbors stick together. And when we learned that Hennepin Healthcare had a great need to help patients and families with something as vital as warm clothing, we quickly launched a clothing drive. We reached out to get a sense of what some specific clothing items were needed, and then the Meet Minneapolis Warm Winter Clothing Drive went full speed ahead to help. We can’t thank our partners enough for pitching in to make sure our friends and neighbors – especially those in communities who struggle with financial or housing insecurity – have access to warm clothing.”

From December 5th through the 30th, Meet Minneapolis collected new, warm clothes to be donated to Hennepin Healthcare. Many Hennepin Healthcare patients have financial challenges. Some patients have damaged clothing after an accident or clothing has been removed to access wounds. Others may not have adequate clothing for the cold weather. Meet Minneapolis staff, board members and partner businesses contributed to the warm clothing drive, donating new coats, boots, pants, tops, mittens, scarves, socks and more.

“Our unique position as Minnesota’s largest level one trauma center means that many patients have pants, tops or clothing ripped or soiled when they arrive,” explained Jennifer DeCubellis. Hennepin Healthcare CEO. “After they have been treated, many patients are in need of clothing so they can be discharged with dignity. Thank you, Meet Minneapolis, for seeing the need and making a difference. We are proud of our Doing Good for Hennepin Healthcare program and encourage other businesses and groups to learn more.”

“Hennepin Healthcare Foundation has the honor of connecting the generosity of the community to the mission of Hennepin Healthcare,” added Theresa Pesch, President and VP of Philanthropy at Hennepin Healthcare Foundation. “Caring for all who walk through our door takes resources and an exceptional team. We are so thankful to Meet Minneapolis for supporting the patients in need of clothing to be discharged with dignity or those in need of extra layers during our winter here in Minneapolis.”

“There are many different narratives of what Minneapolis is and what it isn’t,” said Minneapolis City Council Member Lisa Goodman, a Meet Minneapolis Board Member. “One thing we know to be true is that we consistently have tremendous levels of community engagement in our city. That includes volunteering and giving back to our community, and a perfect example of that is this impactful clothing drive.”

“I’m especially grateful for all of those in the hospitality industry that contributed to this important effort to share warm clothing with patients in need at Hennepin Healthcare,” stated Lester Bagley, Meet Minneapolis Board Chair and Minnesota Vikings Executive Vice President. “On behalf of the entire Meet Minneapolis team, thank you to all who donated to help support members of our community.”

Stone Arch Bridge On Minneapolis by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Stone Arch Bridge on Minneapolis

I was working on a photograph of Downtown Minneapolis that I took New Year's Day. The sky was unremarkable, rather pale. There were no clouds, no blue or pink tones.The cityscape however looked good. The buildings were sharp and clear with a mixture of complimentary colors. I decided to combine the three images I had open at the time into one image. The other two images were close ups of the Stone Arch Bridge, images that contained very different colors from downtown. My end result is a digital version of a photomontage, a process that includes cutting, gluing, rearranging and overlapping several images. After overlapping the images I was able to modify the result to obtain a color balance and tone that I liked. Other artists in the Tres Leches Art Gallery physically combine different materials, textures, types of paint, resins and objects to create works of two or more dimensions. Photography is one dimensional. Creating the perception of dimension is a goal of almost all fine art photography.

You can view my work in person and the work of other Tres Leches artists, a number of whom create two and three dimensional works of art, this Thursday evening, January 5, at the Tres Leches Art Gallery, Studio 173, located in the Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson Street NE from 5-9pm. On Saturday, January 21 from 5-9pm NKB will be open for you to browse works from hundreds of artists and shop multiple open creative studio. There is plenty of free Parking, a passenger elevator, and comfortable spaces for you to enjoy.

Meet Chief of Police, Brian O'Hara, at the Ukrainian Center, January 11

Message from Council Member Rainville

Greetings to all my Ward 3 neighbors,

I want to start by wishing all of you a Happy New Year. I'm looking forward to another great year of working for you all.

I want to invite you to the Ukrainian Event Center (301 NE Main St) on Wednesday, January 11 at 6pm to hear from our new Chief of Police, Brian O'Hara. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about Chief O'Hara's vision for MPD, and ask any questions you may have. 

I hope to see many of you there.

Your neighbor,

Michael

MacPhail Announces Free Family Event Saturday, January 21

MacPhail Center for Music has announced a free family event with a concert and activities for children Saturday, January 21, 2023.

The soulful sounds of Motown will combine with the power of the trombone as The Paper Clips provide an informative and engaging performance at Sing Play Learn with MacPhail®’s next Free Family Music Series. The Paper Clips will connect the sounds of “Hitsville” USA to its roots in Black American and popular music styles of the 20th century, a program for fans of all ages. The vibrancy of Minneapolis will set the stage in Antonello Hall at MacPhail’s downtown location. Members of The Paper Clips trombone quartet include Chris Allen, Brooklynne Audette, Lauren Husting and MacPhail’s very own Ben Bussey.

Activities Include:
•Free Family Concerts at 10:15am and 11:15am
•Instrument exploration
•Visual art station
•Snacks

Bussey, also MacPhail Faculty Member and K12 School Partnerships Development Representative, expressed his excitement about sharing this program with such a young audience. “We are thrilled to be able to bring some of our classic Motown program to the Free Family Music series. This is the music our parents played for us when we were kids, and we love sharing it with young people. The music of Motown is essential listening when considering the history and impact of Black American music in world popular culture. The blending of jazz and gospel in the city of Detroit birthed an unmistakable sound in the 1960s that continues to resonate with people today, and launched the careers of artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, and many more.” 

Dry January? Try These Non-Alcohol Beers from FINNEGANS

If your New Year's resolution pledge is to give up drinking alcohol for the month of January, that doesn’t mean giving up going out or having fun. FINNEGANS has three Non-Alcohol Hairless Dog beers for you to enjoy. Unlike many non-alcoholic beers, Hairless Dog is the first truly 0.0% craft beer in the U.S. Not a drop of alcohol has been produced during the making process, which is unique.

The Citra Lager and IPA are on tap in FINNEGANS' Taproom. Additionally, Hairless Dog is found in many retail outlets - consult the Beer Finder to locate one nearest to you. If you are new to the brand, FINNEGANS is also offering 25 store samplings across the metro area so you can try before you buy.

Magical Monochrome Morning With a Touch of Maroon and Gold

Thank you to Susan Schaefer for sharing this frosty photo overlooking the Mississippi River, taken December 31, 2022.

Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota Shares 5 Things They Learned About Alzheimer’s Disease in 2022

According to the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota chapter, 2022 was an especially productive and promising year for Alzheimer’s research, including new discoveries related to the causes, risk factors and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Here is their list of the five important things they learned about Alzheimer’s in 2022:

1. Alzheimer’s treatments are getting better. In November, pharmaceutical companies Eisai and Biogen announced positive results from their global Phase 3 clinical trial of an Alzheimer’s drug called lecanemab, slowing the rate of cognitive decline in study participants by 27% over 18 months. These are the most encouraging results we have seen to date for an Alzheimer's treatment. A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decision on accelerated approval is expected early in January 2022, potentially making lecanemab the second FDA-approved drug in 18 months that changes the course of Alzheimer’s disease.
2. A daily multivitamin may slow brain aging. Research published in September in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association found that taking a multivitamin-mineral supplement every day for 3 years resulted in a statistically significant cognitive benefit. This is the first positive, large-scale, long-term study to show that multivitamin-mineral supplementation for older adults may slow cognitive aging. With confirmation through research, these promising findings have the potential to significantly impact public health — improving brain health, lowering health care costs,  and reducing caregiver burden — especially among older adults.
3. Frozen pizza, candy and soda may raise the risk of cognitive decline. At the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) last summer, new research results found that eating a large amount of ultra-processed food can significantly accelerate cognitive decline. The research was then published in JAMA Neurology in December. Ultra-processed foods make up more than half of American diets. The good news is there are steps we can take to reduce risk of cognitive decline as we age. These include eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting good sleep, staying cognitively engaged, protecting from head injury, not smoking and managing heart health.
4. Experiencing racism is linked to poor memory. Also at AAIC 2022, researchers reported that experiences of structural, interpersonal and institutional racism are associated with lower memory scores and worse cognition in midlife and old age, especially among Black individuals. These data are especially important given Black Americans are about twice as likely, and Hispanic Americans are about one and one-half times as likely, to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias according to the 2022 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report.
5. Wearing hearing aids may reduce risk of dementia. Individuals with hearing loss who used hearing restorative devices had a 19% decrease in risk of long-term cognitive decline, according to research published in December in JAMA Neurology. These data appeared five months after the FDA announced it will allow hearing aids to be sold over the counter, greatly expanding access to 30 million Americans living with hearing loss. In addition to improving daily communication, use of hearing aids may also benefit brain health.

While advancements are happening, the significant impact of Alzheimer's remains. Over a recent 20-year period, deaths from heart disease went down 7.3%, while deaths from Alzheimer’s increased 145%. In 2022, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the nation $321 billion.

“With several FDA decisions expected on Alzheimer’s treatments in 2023, this is a very exciting time in the fight to end this disease,” said Lisa Groon, Alzheimer’s Association Senior Health Systems Director. “Thanks to increased research funding from the federal government and nonprofits we’re hopeful that the new year will bring more advances and discoveries for people living with, and at risk for, Alzheimer’s and other dementia.” 

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. The Minnesota-North Dakota chapter provides no-charge classes for individuals and organizations, support groups, training and resources.