Cynthia Froid Group Announces 2022 People Serving People Holiday Toy Drive

Cynthia Froid Group, 709 S 2nd Street, will again sponsor their Annual Holiday Toy Drive for People Serving People to help ensure kids at the Minneapolis shelter have a wonderful holiday season. In addition to dropping off items at Cindy's office, you can also shop People Serving People’s Target Holiday Wishlist and Amazon Holiday Wishlist. Your online purchase can be shipped directly to People Serving People, or you can personally deliver items to their shelter at 614 3rd Street S. This donation drive will last until Friday, December 16th.

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update and Tunneling Progress Update, November 10

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 have resumed work at the Mississippi River portal site expanding the existing storm tunnel.
  • The parking lot and trail will be closed near Mill Ruins Park.
  • Crews will soon be working 24/7 at this site, Monday through Saturday.

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.
  • The sidewalks remain open on both sides of the road.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 2nd Ave S intersection remains open.
  • 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S.
  • Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Portland Ave

• Tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave continues from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.
  • Pedestrian access is being maintained during this work. Please follow any posted detour routes.
  • There may be short, periodic traffic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Coming Soon

Saturday work

• Beginning November 19th, crews will be working on Saturdays at the 2nd Avenue, Portland Avenue and Mississippi River Portal sites.

Tunneling Progress

 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.
  • 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.

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.

Minneapolis Animal Care & Control Launches Foster Program

Excerpt from the November 10th City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Can you help animals in need? Minneapolis Animal Care & Control has launched its new animal foster program, giving the public the opportunity to volunteer to temporarily provide animals extra care, attention and homes.

Fosters are a great way to provide animals with care, play, exercise and socialization. Animals that are placed with volunteers in the foster program may include:

• Those too young or small for adoption.
• Those recovering from surgery or illness.
• Those who need temporary housing due to domestic violence situations.
• Those experiencing temporary displacement from an emergency or natural disaster.
• And animals who could use a break from the shelter environment.

Minneapolis Animal Care & Control will provide all supplies and medical care for foster pet care.

Applicants must be willing to commit to housing an animal, and have the ability to get to and from Minneapolis Animal Care & Control, 212 17th Ave. N., Minneapolis. Staff will contact applicants after their application is reviewed to discuss the program, and will work with you to provide the best matches possible.

Learn more and apply.

2022 - 2023 Snow Emergency Info

You know it's coming, so it's best to be prepared. Follow the guidelines to not only avoid vehicle towing and fines for not shoveling, but to simply be a good citizen and give the plow operators an unobstructed path so they can keep our streets as clear as possible.

There are many ways to find out if the City declares a Snow Emergency:

• Call 311
• Check the City of Minneapolis website - If they declare a Snow Emergency, you'll see a banner at the top of every page with an announcement.
• Sign up for Snow Emergency alerts
• Check the City's social media pages: Twitter and Facebook
• Get the Snow Emergency app
• Call the Snow Emergency hotline, 612-348-SNOW (7669) 
• Watch local TV or radio 

The Dayton’s Project Announces Winter Maker’s Market

The curated retail installation features Minnesota heritage brands

The Dayton’s Project has announced the launch of the Winter Maker’s Market, a curated retail experience showcasing heritage brands from across Minnesota. The market will feature 65 independent vendors, showcasing the depth and variety of Minnesota retail.  

“There is something incredibly special about the holidays at The Dayton’s Project. We’re thrilled to be bringing back this one-of-a-kind holiday shopping destination,” said Tricia Pitchford, Principal of Mid-America Real Estate. “We’re proud to support the vibrancy and resurgence of downtown Minneapolis, especially since the holidays have always been such an important part of Dayton’s history.” 

Every one of the 65 vendors will bring a unique story and hand-selected products to the Winter Maker’s Market. Some of Minnesota’s most iconic heritage brands will be featured in the market, including Red Wing Shoes (heritage work and lifestyle footwear), Faribault Mill (iconic blanket and textiles), and Sanborn Canoe (canoes, camping accessories, and home décor).  

Original apparel offerings, with inspiration from around the world, will be provided by Sota Clothing (Minnesota-themed apparel, accessories, and décor), Molly Pepper (effortless lounge and lifestyle wear), Embellish (ready-to-wear African prints); Karen Morris (one-of-a-kind women’s hats); and nickichicki (colorful and stylish knitwear). Shop in the City will be back with its fan-favorite Dayton’s merchandise including hats, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and much more! 

Artisan accessories and home goods, with the highest level of attention to detail, from Leather Works Minnesota (artisan leather goods), Brooke & Lou (elevated home accessories). Fox Lake Furniture (handcrafted custom wood furniture and accessories); Wondrous Crane (delicate, functional ceramics); and Larissa Loden (unique handmade jewelry). 

Specialty culinary items from Sweet Heaven (custom cake design); Hepp Salt Co (gourmet salt and sugar); We Are Nuts (handmade nut mixes); and The Smiling Olive (premium olive oils and vinegars). 

The entire vendor list marks 64 vendors offering products and services, from homemade dog treats from Morey and Me to vinegar-based cocktail mixers by Sharab Shrubs. 

“This collection of brands really showcases what makes Minnesota so incredible. We are showcasing the heritage of Minnesota. The quality and the diversity of the brands in the Market really has to be seen to be believed,” said Mich Berthiaume, the market curator. “There simply is no substitute for browsing a handpicked selection made locally with passion and care. There is a magic to downtown, and The Dayton’s Project, during the holidays.” 

The Winter Maker’s Market is housed in The Dayton’s Project, a landmark historic restoration development in downtown Minneapolis. Home to EY, Unilever, Uncommon Retail, and new tenant Prudential Financial, The Dayton’s Project offers 1.2 million square feet of Minneapolis History, transformed into best-in-class office space and curated retail. 

The Winter Maker’s Market will open November 17th through January 13th. It will be open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am through 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am through 5:00 pm through December 23rd, with post-holiday hours to be announced at a later date.

Entire Vendor List: 

Red Wing Shoes https://www.redwingshoes.com/ 

Faribault Mill https://www.faribaultmill.com/ 

Sota Clothing https://www.sotaclothing.com/ 

Sanborn Canoe Co. https://sanborncanoe.com/ 

Austin | Fowler https://www.austinfowler.com/ 

Brooke & Lou  https://brookeandlou.com/collections/labor-day-shop 

Urban Undercover https://urbanundercover.com/pages/about 

Poppy Fun Fashion https://www.instagram.com/poppy_fun_fashion/?hl=en 

The Window Box https://www.windowboxplants.com/ 

Henna & Hijabs  https://hennaandhijabs.com/  

Dottir https://www.dottirshop.com/ 

Fox Lake Furniture https://www.foxlakefurniture.com/  

Happy Everything MN https://www.happyeverythingmn.com/ 

Worker B https://www.worker-b.com/ 

Namakan https://namakangoods.com/ 

Skotch Kooler https://skotchkoolerusa.com/ 

Verist  www.shopverist.com

Art By Aleisha https://byaleisha.com/ 

Siena Soap Company https://www.sienasoap.com/ 

SJC Body Love  https://sjcbodylove.com/  

GiftyWrap https://giftywrap.com/ 

Shop Country Club https://www.depop.com/shopcountryclub/ 

LATITUDE https://www.latitudempls.com/ 

Wondrous Crane https://www.wondrouscrane.com/ 

Morey and Me  https://www.moreyandmebarkery.com/ 

United Goods USA https://www.unitedgoodsusa.com/ 

Puzzle Twist https://www.puzzletwist.com/ 

Zelba and Mary https://www.zelbamary.com/ 

The Grande Gallery https://www.grandegallery.com/ 

Blue Heron https://blueheronsoaps.com/ 

Onyx Cool https://onyxcool.com/ 

Opal Cool https://opalcool.com/ 

Molly Pepper https://molly-pepper.com/ 

Karen Morris Millinery https://www.kmhats.com/ 

The Zero(ish) Co. https://www.zeroishco.com/ 

Larissa Loden https://larissaloden.com/ 

Embellish https://www.embellishalc.com/ 

Sweet Heaven by Nne https://www.sweetheavenbynne.com/  

Chin Chin Delight https://www.chinchindelight.com/ 

Shop in the City https://www.shopinthecity.com/ 

Native Roots Trading Post https://www.nativerootstradingpost.com/ 

Minnesota Awesome https://minnesota-awesome.com/ 

Joel Kaplan Art https://www.joelkaplanwatercolors.com/ 

Onyx Candles https://onyxcandles.com/ 

Nickichicki https://nickichicki.com/ 

Hejlov https://hejlov.com/ 

Junita’s Jar https://junitasjar.com/ 

San Jose Chocolate https://www.chocolatesanjose-minneapolis.com/ 

San Jose baby brand 

Here’s the Deal Spice Company https://www.heresthedeal.co/#/  

Hepp Salt Co. https://heppssalt.com/ 

The Smiling Olive https://thesmilingolive.com/ 

Isadore Nut Co. https://www.isadorenutco.com/ 

Hobby Farmer Canning Co. https://www.hobbyfarmerfoods.com/  

Thumbs Cookies https://www.thumbscookies.com/ 

Double Take Salsa https://www.doubletakesalsa.com/ 

We are Nuts https://wearenutsmn.com/ 

Sharab Shrubs https://www.sharabshrubs.com/ 

Coccinella Mediterranean Heritage https://www.coccinellastore.com/  

Our Glass https://www.our-glass.com/ 

Soak it Up https://soakitup.shop/ 

Chrissy’s Tree House https://www.instagram.com/chrissys_treehouse/?hl=en 

North Mallow https://northmallow.com/ 

Leather Works Minnesota  https://leatherworksminnesota.com/ 

Kursiv Organics  https://kursivorganics.com/  

Local Craft Brewers Will Have Limited-edition MN Pint Day Pint Glasses Available on Black Friday Weekend

CRAFT BEER ENTHUSIASTS CAN CELEBRATE SMALL BREWERY SUNDAY WITH LIMITED-EDITION 2022 MN PINT DAY GLASSWARE

MN Pint Day pint glasses available at 40+ breweries and brewpubs starting Black Friday weekend

On November 27, in honor of Small Brewery Sunday and Black Friday weekend, craft beer lovers are invited to visit more than 40 Minnesota craft breweries and brewpubs around the state to celebrate the 2022 Minnesota Pint Day and purchase limited-edition MN Pint Day pint glasses.

MN Pint Day was created by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild (MNCBG), the state’s nonprofit association for craft breweries and brewpubs. The day, and the exclusive glassware, is designed to give MN craft beer fans a fun excuse to grab some friends, share a pint, and support their favorite breweries this holiday season.

“When craft beer enthusiasts gather and purchase beer, merchandise, or gift cards over the holidays, it has a huge impact for these small businesses and their communities,” says MNCBG Executive Director Jess Talley. “MN Pint Day is a great way to celebrate Small Brewery Sunday as well as to encourage fans to remember to buy local this holiday season.”

Individual businesses will decide how to celebrate MN Pint Day, what promotions to offer with their pint glasses, and how long to offer those promotions. Pint glasses can only be found at participating breweries and brewpubs while supplies last.

This year’s pint glass design was done by Marcus Paulsen of Lupulin Brewing and Big MP Design. Marcus is the recipient of numerous awards, including Best Art & Design at the MNCBG’s MN Brewer’s Cup in 2019 and 2021.

Visit the website to see the growing list of participating breweries, glassware artwork, and, later this month, an interactive map highlighting promotions.

Founded in 2000, the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild is a not-for-profit organization comprise of more than 175+ Minnesota brewery and brewpub members. The Guild showcases the talent of Minnesota’s craft brewers and promotes Minnesota’s brewing industry by sponsoring festivals and special events, including the MN Brewers Cup, the State Fair’s Brewed in Minnesota exhibit, All Pints North, and Autumn Brew Review. The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild’s mission is to promote, protect, and grow a robust Minnesota craft brewing industry by building a healthy beer culture and community that allows for independent brewers, industry stakeholders, and craft beer fans to thrive.

City Council Approves Brian O’Hara for Mpls Police Chief

The City Council has approved Mayor Jacob Frey’s nomination of Brian O’Hara to serve as police chief. O’Hara joins the City after serving as deputy mayor of Newark, New Jersey, in charge of overseeing strategic public safety initiatives. He officially starts Monday, Nov. 7.

In 2001, O’Hara joined the Newark Police Department as a police officer, rising through the ranks to become a captain in 2016. In 2021, he was appointed as the public safety director for Newark overseeing more than 1,960 employees including 996 sworn police officers, 611 firefighters and 346 civilian employees and a budget that exceeded $200 million. In that role, O’Hara enhanced the collaborative working relationships among federal, state and local partners.

As former captain of the Newark Police Department’s Consent Decree & Planning Division (2017-2020), O’Hara worked extensively with the Department of Justice on the 2016 consent decree between the U.S. and the City of Newark.

The chief of police position is a four-year appointment.

Watch today's press conference following O'Hara's confirmation. 

Mill City Farmers Market 2022 Outdoor Season is Complete, Winter Market Dates are Set

I went overboard at the October 29 Mill City Farmers Market, and couldn't come close to fitting all the goodies into this basket.

The Farmers Market staff did a fantastic job curating new vendors this year, and I hope to continue seeing them at the November 2022 - April 2023 winter markets inside the Mill City Museum.

Winter Market hours are 10a-1pm, and here are the dates: 

November 5, 19

December 3, 17

January 7, 21

February 4, 18

March 4, 18

April 1, 15

Making Healthy Places with Dr. Nisha Botchwey at the Mill City Museum, Nov. 29

Unlocking the potential to improve individual and community health through parks and public space

When: 7:00pm, Tuesday, November 29
Where: Mill City Museum
Tickets: Always Free • Sign Up via Eventbrite

Join the Minneapolis Parks Foundation to hear Dr. Botchwey talk about how engaging youth, empowering social networks, and advancing public policy can change the trajectory for future generations in the United States as they have around the world.
Dr. Nisha Botchwey

"Public spaces are the most powerful frame for opportunity," says Nisha Botchwey, PhD. Drawing from her groundbreaking book Making Healthy Places, Dr. Botchwey - who was named Dean of the University of Minnesota's Humphrey School of Public Affairs in January - will "explore the edge of where we can go to create thriving communities."

Equitable access to life-changing parks and other civic assets has perhaps never been so vital. But even in the face of converging social and natural challenges, including climate change and systemic racism, there is reason to have hope.

Open House Opportunities to Meet Brian O’Hara, Nominee for the Next Chief of Police

Excerpt from the October 27 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

The public is invited to in-person open houses to meet Mayor Frey’s nominee for the next Minneapolis chief of police. Join nominee Brian O’Hara and City staff to share your thoughts and concerns.

Open houses to meet police chief nominee Brian O’Hara:

4:30-6pm Thursday, Oct. 27, Stewart Park, 2700 12th Ave. S.

4:30-6pm Tuesday, Nov. 1, 81 Ninth St. S., Suite 260

4:30-6pm Wed., Nov. 2, Northeast Library, 2200 Central Ave. NE, meeting room

Please RSVP to sumaya.mohamed@minneapolismn.gov.

The City Council will vote on the nomination November 3rd.

Watch the recording of the October 26 public hearing on O’Hara’s nomination at the Public Health & Safety Committee meeting.

Find more information about the nominee on the City website.

October 26 Bridge 9 Improvement Project Update

Bridge No. 9 was constructed in 1922 by the Northern Pacific Railroad to carry freight over the Mississippi. The City of Minneapolis acquired this bridge in 1986 and converted the bridge to a pedestrian use bridge in 1999. The bridge currently provides a Mississippi River crossing for the Dinkytown Greenway bike trail.

Beginning in July 2022, the City of Minneapolis started making repairs and improvements to Bridge 9, Pier 5.

Latest project news

Construction Update Meeting (online meeting)

Virtual monthly project stakeholder meetings were held at 9:30 am the 1st Thursday of each month using Microsoft Teams. These meeting have been suspended until the Spring of 2023 as Pier 5 work nears completion. The meetings will resume when the Contractor prepares to begin Pier 2 and Abutment 1 work on the easterly side of the river next year.

Join on your computer or mobile app.

Click here to join the meeting

Or join by entering a meeting ID Meeting ID: 213 161 635 706 Passcode: KyceBr

Or call in (audio only)

+1 612-428-8778,,6668421#   United States, Minneapolis

Phone Conference ID: 666 842 1#

These meetings help us to give you more detailed information about work progress on a monthly basis and to have discussion on any concerns or questions you have about the project. Please send an email or give a call to the project engineer if you have difficulty using the link above.

If no one joins the meeting within 10 minutes the meeting will end, but you can still contact the meeting coordinator via phone or email:

Rich Revering, Design Team Project Manager; 612-718-8412 or Richard.Revering@Bolton-Menk.com

Schedule

Construction activities for Pier 5 repairs started in July 2022. The scheduled completion date is December 1, 2022. The contractor is currently anticipating substantial completion by the end of October 2022. 

Traffic Impact

West River Parkway is scheduled to be open for vehicular traffic subject to occasional one-way traffic w/ flaggers during certain equipment and material loading operations. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic are open to traffic, with pedestrians sharing the bike path through the project area

Current work

For the month of October, the following construction operations were performed: Forming and pouring pier wrap foundations and four lifts of pier wrap. The wrap is a thick layer of reinforced concrete to contain and strengthen the pier to extend its useful life. Current work involves placing an overlay over the bridge seat, concrete touch ups as needed, grading, riprap, and site restoration and cleanup.

Coming up

Work will be suspended on the bridge until next spring. Normal bicycle and pedestrian patterns will resume when construction is suspended.

Stay Connected

For more details and to sign up for email updates please visit the Bridge 9 Improvement project webpage.

Project Engineer: Petru Vizoli, 612-673-2368, Petru.Vizoli@minneapolismn.gov

Theatre in the Round Debuts Stage Adaptation of Agatha Christie's First Novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles

The Mysterious Affair at Styles runs Nov. 18 - Dec. 18

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) continues its long-running holiday tradition of Agatha Christie mysteries with the world premiere of The Mysterious Affair at Styles. This new version of Christie’s debut novel is adapted by playwright Kate Danley who will be joining the company for an audience discussion following the performance on Friday, December 16.

Published in 1920 to rave reviews, The Mysterious Affair at Styles introduced readers to fan-favorite character, Hercules Poirot, as he investigates the midnight poisoning of a family matriarch. Throughout the course of the mystery queen’s 56-year career, the Belgian detective shows up in 33 novels, 2 plays, and over 50 short stories.

Agatha Christie’s colorful characters and gifts of misdirection are on full display in this new staged adaptation, directed by Linda Paulsen with sets designed by Devyn Becker, costumes by Jessica Moore, lighting by Mark Kieffer, props by Roxanne Miller, and sound by Kristin Smith.

TRP also welcomes a panel of authors from the Twin Cities chapter of Sisters in Crime to discuss the enduring legacy of mystery stories and the role of women, such as Agatha Christie, in the creation of the genre. Sisters in Crime was founded to “combat discrimination against women in the mystery field, to raise awareness of the contributions of female authors, and to promote the professional advancement of women who write mysteries.” Audiences are welcome to enjoy this panel immediately following the performance on Sunday, December 11.

Show times: 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 the website.

Mhonpaj’s Garden's Ginormous Rutabaga at the Mill City Farmers Market

May Lee of Mhonpaj’s Garden proudly displayed a gargantuan rutabaga at the October 22 Mill City Farmers Market. 

The fall months are prime time to buy rutabagas at the Market. They are a rich source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamins C and E, and antioxidants, and are high in insoluble fiber. They have a pleasant sweet and slightly bitter flavor. You can add them to meals in a variety of ways, including:

• boiled and mashed
• cut into fries and fried
• roasted in the oven
• added to a soup
• thinly sliced and added to a casserole
• grated raw into a salad

Due to their versatility in flavor and preparation methods, rutabagas can replace potatoes, carrots, turnips, and other root vegetables in most recipes. Rutabagas will keep for months in a cool storage place. They store well in plastic bags in a refrigerator or cold cellar.

Open Book to Host Ellie Roscher Book Launch and Reading of The Embodied Path

Local author Ellie Roscher will be reading from her new book The Embodied Path: Telling the Story of Your Body for Healing and Wholeness on December 6 at Open Book, 1011 Washington Avenue S. Doors open at 6:30pm, and there will be a program starting at 7pm followed by a book signing.

In this book, Ellie tells more than 20 body stories, woven together with her own body insights. She covers stories ranging from a woman who sees her hijab as an extension of her body to a front man in a funk band who views his entire body as his instrument; from a quadriplegic woman who became a lawyer to advocate for herself to a transgender man who underwent a gender transition after birthing two children. The book does the essential work of resistance and repair at the individual and communal level. It also includes discussion questions, writing prompts, and breath and body practices.  

Ellie Roscher is the coauthor of 12 Tiny Things and author of Play Like a Girl and How Coffee Saved My Life. She hosts the Unlikely Conversations podcast and teaches writing at The Loft Literary Center. Ellie holds an MFA in writing from Sarah Lawrence College and an MA in theology from Luther Seminary. She lives in Minneapolis with her spouse and sons. 

Winter is Coming

Submitted by Ric Rosow

I took this photo the morning of October 20 from the bottom of the bluff along the road leading to the Lower Lock and Dam.

Winter is Coming

Eagles and Red-Tailed Hawk at the River

Submitted by Ric Rosow

On Wednesday the 19th of October I watched and photographed two eagles and a falcon over the course ninety minutes. At first there was an eagle (the first eagle) on a rock in the middle of the river and another eagle (the second eagle) in a tree at the side of the river. After a while the second eagle flew to the rock and literally chased the first eagle away. The first eagle flew to its nest, likely the nest of both eagles, on the other side of the river in the cottonwood tree below the back of the Metal-Matic building.

In this first photograph (above) the second eagle is jumping from the tree to the rock. I have purposely darkened the area around the eagle for you to see it more easily against the water. For a long time it was splashing around in the water hunting for fish. I have a number of photos of one or the other eagle going into the water for fish, but because of the distance between me and the eagle it is hard to see the details of any of the fish they caught.

While photographing the two eagles a red-tailed hawk flew into my line of view. The second photograph (above) is of the hawk. The hawk flew upriver close to the fence on the top of the bluff and then turned to go down river over the bluff. As the hawk flew by the second eagle on the tree limb, either the hawk or the eagle cried out a loud audible screech. I'm guessing it was a warning and not a casual hello.

On Thursday morning I spotted an eagle in a tree overlooking the Mississippi River. This time I went out down by the river to see if I could get a good image from ground level. Fortunately, the eagle was still in the tree, at least for the next 47 seconds. This is the first photo I took that morning. As I was taking a fourth shot, the eagle apparently did not like the sound of the shutter and initiated flight out of the tree. The last five images I took are of the eagle launching out of the tree. Of course, my camera shutter speed was set for a "still" bird, not one in flight.

You can see more of my work ricrosowphotography.com and Tres Leches Art Gallery. Art Attack is coming up on November 2-4 at the Northrup King Building. Stop in and see some fine art in the Tres Leches Art Gallery.

Ivalas Quartet to Visit MacPhail for Weeklong Residency, Free Performance October 29

October 29th 7:00pm concert is free and open to the public. All are welcome - RSVPs are requested to reserve space.

The Ivalas Quartet, Julliard’s 2022-23 Quartet in Residence, will visit MacPhail Center for Music October 23-29 for a week as Madeline Island Chamber Music’s Emerging Artist Quartet in Residence.

Composed of violinists Reuben Kebede and Tiani Butts, violist Aimée McAnulty and cellist Pedro Sánchez, Ivalas Quartet is challenging the status quo of the classical world as they dedicate their artistry to the celebration of BIPOC voices and composers. During their time in Minneapolis, the Ivalas Quartet will visit MacPhail’s location in the Mill District, along with a number of MacPhail’s school partnership locations and a pre-forum concert at Westminster Presbyterian Church, as they connect with students and the community. The weekend culminates with a concert in Antonello Hall entitled “First Light.”

The Quartet notes, “Whether watching movies like Star Wars, reading books like Dune, stargazing, or visiting the planetarium, our quartet has always felt fascinated by outer space. In fact, a few decades ago our violist Aimée’s grandmother completed sketches and illustrated materials for the Voyager, and today we are proud to contribute to the conversation with our own craft, aided by the music of three amazing composers. We’re thrilled for you to join us in this voyage to outer space and help us think about these questions as we perform Tenebrae by Osvaldo Golijov, Eleanor Alberga’s first string quartet, and Beethoven’s op. 130.”

Gamut Gallery Announces 11th Annual Raging Art On Event

Raging Art On is Gamut Gallery’s annual holiday pop-up, featuring artwork and handcrafted gifts made by over 50 Minnesota artists!

In Person December 1 - 23 (Available online through January 10, 2023)

.

Gamut's 11th annual holiday market Raging Art On (RAO) is back again to deck your halls! Since the inception of Raging Art On in 2011, the Gamut team has hand selected the artists, leaving it up to them to choose their best of the best for the holiday pop-up shop. Always sourced locally, Gamute welcomes over 50 participants this year, some names and faces you may be familiar with from past RAO’s, plus 22 new artists. With the gallery walls filled from floor-to-ceiling showcasing original works of all price points and mediums, tick off everyone on your list in a single shopping trip at Gamut. Whether it's pottery, fiber art, paintings, prints, apparel, jewelry, or homegoods that catch your eye, everything in the collection is ready to take home with you that day.

Members of the gallery are invited to preview the festivities on Thursday, December 1st from 5pm–9pm, followed by four weeks of in person shopping open to the public. RAO will be shoppable online at gamutgallerympls.com for those who are not able to attend in person. All work will remain online to shop through January 10th.

Featured Artists: 

 Aaron Schmitz, Amit Michael, Ashtyn Sibinski, Astralchemy, Barret Lee, Bekah Worley, Benja Wuest, Black Daze, Bruno Press, Catherine Brinker, Carter Casmaer, Cassie Garner, Destiny Davison, Eli Libson, Emily Floyd, Emily Forbes, Emily Quandahl, Evan Weselmann, Genessis Lopez, Heather Renaux, Hilary Greenstein, Jorie Kosel, Josh Katzenmeyer, Juliana Ferguson (Hello Cross Stitches), Kate Johnson, Kathryn Flora, Keya Hutchins, Jenna Murphy, Jovy Rockey, Lauren Strom, Leeya Rose Jackson, Lindsee Boyer, Linnea Maas, Liza Ferrari, Madison Rubenstein, Malleus Pottery, Marne Skusa (Prajna Bodyworks), Martzia Thometz, Melissa Sisk, MK Metten, Monica Helland, Nichole Showalter, Nina Perkins (Pompa Goods), Phaedra Odelle, Rachel Schroder (Ms. Stitch), Russ White, Sander Kolodziej, Sara Kahn (Imaginary Conservatory), Sari Lennick, Scott Seekins, Sydney Newman, Tiffany Lange, and Travis J. Collins. 

Member Preview Night - Wednesday, December 1, 5-9pm

Don’t miss first dibs on your favorite pieces!

Not a Gamut Gallery member? Become one today.

•         Must be a Gamut Gallery Member to attend

RAO Pop-Up Dates: (717 S 10th St) December 2nd - December 23rd

•         In person shopping

•         Wednesdays - Saturdays, 11am- 6pm

Online Orders - December 2 - January 10, 2023

•         Shipping available nationally

•         Shop featured artworks at gamut-gallery.myshopify.com/

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Follow on Facebook and Instagram for further details and information regarding the event. Join the Facebook Event Page. Official hashtags: #RagingArtOn # RAO2022

A few photos from the 2021 Raging Art On event:

The Gamut Gallery

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Jason DeRusha

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Nichole Showalter 

October 15 at the Mill City Farmers Market

Remember Billy Joel's song, New York State of Mind? At the October 15 Mill City Farmers Market we were in a pumpkin state of mind, starting with Market sponsor Cindy Froid's annual pumpkin give-away, which included copies of Brenda Langton's Ginger Pumpkin Soup recipe. These beauties were grown by Jeff Nistler.

This large pumpkin was for sale at the Prairie Hollow Farm stand.

A long line at Rudy's - always! Best bagel breakfast sandwiches, made to order.

 

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update and Tunneling Progress Update

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

Get an inside look of tunnel mining

CBS Minnesota recently released a story on the Minneapolis Central City Tunnel project. Check out the WCCO story to learn more about the project.

Latest Project News

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.
  • The sidewalks remain open on both sides of the road.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 2nd Ave S intersection remains open.
  • 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S.
  • Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Portland Ave

• Tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave continues from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.
  • Pedestrian access is being maintained during this work. Please follow any posted detour routes.
  • There may be short, periodic traffic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Tunneling Progress

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 in fall 2022.
  • 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.

Coming Soon

Hennepin Ave

• Later this fall, crews will resume work at the Hennepin Ave site. They will continue tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave.

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews will soon resume work at the Mississippi River portal site expanding the existing storm tunnel. The parking lot and trail will be closed.

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