4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview

Via a March 11 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees, and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.

Fourth Street Roadway Reconstruction Resumes April 2022

Roadway reconstruction work on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S. is tentatively scheduled to resume on Monday, April 11*. Utility work will begin in the upcoming weeks, starting with Xcel Energy working on a utility vault at the NW corner of 1st Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Xcel Energy will be staging and occupying lanes between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. This work is anticipated to be complete before roadway reconstruction resumes.  

*Please note that construction start date is subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Phase 1: Hennepin Ave. and 4th Ave. S

The first phase of reconstruction between Hennepin Ave. and 4th Ave. S is substantially complete. Crews will be returning in these blocks to review past work, make any necessary repairs and complete final restoration work.

Phase 2: 2nd Ave. N to Hennepin Ave.

Removal and reconstruction of 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. will begin on April 11, weather permitting. The roadway will be reconstructed one half at a time. During roadway reconstruction, local access will be maintained. 

What To Expect During Construction

• During roadway construction, 4th St. will be closed to through traffic between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access to driveways will be maintained on the half of the roadway that is not under construction.
• During construction work, pedestrian and bicycle access will be maintained on the half of the roadway that is not under construction. Be aware of your surroundings when walking on the sidewalk and biking in the roadway.
• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.

Upcoming Events

4th Street Weekly Stakeholder Meeting

Weekly project newsletters and stakeholder meetings will resume starting April 1st. Join us at the next stakeholder meeting to get project updates, talk with project staff and get your questions/concerns answered.

Stakeholder Meeting

Friday, April 1, 9-9:30 a.m.

Via Teams Meeting: Click here to join the meeting

Stakeholder update meetings will occur every Friday at 9 a.m. after April 1st.

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: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/  

Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction

Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774 

March 19 Artist Reception for Betsy Ruth Byers: Scaffold: A Kolman & Pryor Gallery Project Space Exhibition

Via a recent e-announcemcent:

Betsy Ruth Byers: Scaffold: A Kolman & Pryor Gallery Project Space Exhibition

March 19 – May 7

Artist Reception: Saturday, March 19, 7:00 – 9:00pm

Kolman & Pryor Gallery is pleased to present  Project Space grantee, Betsy Ruth Byers’, new exhibition, Scaffold. Kolman & Pryor Gallery’s Project Space is an initiative launched by the gallery in 2021, to further support visual artists. Scaffold runs March 19 - May 7, 2022, with a public opening reception on Saturday, March 19, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., during the Northrup King Building’s March Northrup King Nights. The exhibition is a multi-sensory, multi-media manifestation of Byers’ alpine and equatorial glacial experiences and the global realities related to climate change.

Betsy in studio“Receiving the Project Space grant from Kolman & Pryor gave me the resources and funds to move from two-dimensional painting to installation-based work,” Byers says. For several years, Byers has accompanied scientists on trips to various glaciers, hiked the Aletsch Glacier in the Swiss Alps, and observed how glacier tourism now requires bridges and ladders to reach receding and melting glaciers.

“Many people’s experiences of arctic, alpine, and tropical glaciers (often located on equatorial volcanoes) are through screens, and through the speed of social media,” Byers says. “In this exhibition, through which I’ve been processing my experiences, I hope to create contemplative, sensory spaces people can step into and come to an embodied understanding of what’s happening in our world.”

The work within Scaffold, Byers says, “is visually anchored in the aesthetic of survival gear—colors like bright orange and metallic reflectives—and the language of temporary solutions and adaptations.” Elements include a survival tent, a soundscape created from heartbeats heard via a digital stethoscope, paintings, and an olfactory piece. “Smell is so connected to brain function,” she says. “My goal is to create an interactive space that engages the senses and creates physical lasting memories of the exhibition.”

Byers also wants viewers to consider concepts such as time and change, the temporary, and ideas of survival. “The earth is reacting to climate change in survival mode, and we are slow to act. I hope to create a space in which people can contemplate this and let the elements of installation affect them physically.”

“We are thrilled to be providing Betsy with a space in which to create an installation that addresses one of the pressing issues of time, climate change,” says Anita Sue Kolman, “Our gallery has always focused on supporting Minnesota artists. Our Project Space initiative has allowed Betsy to create a whole world that includes her paintings and other aspects that will engage all of the senses.”

Adds Patrick Pryor, “Betsy has used her grantee funds, time, and support to elevate her career to a new level with this exhibition. Scaffold will be a powerfully engaging and thought-provoking work that we hope will affect the hearts and minds of all who experience the exhibition.”

For a preview of the show, please contact Anita Sue Kolman at anita@kolmanpryorgallery.com or 612-385-4239 or Patrick Pryor at patrick@kolmanpryorgallery.com or 612-280-7812.

Farmers Kitchen + Bar Reopens With A Fresh Look And A New Supper Series

Farmers Kitchen + Bar reopened on February 26 after being temporarily closed to undergo a phase two remodel. The refreshed restaurant reopens just in time for Spring and also announces a new Farmers + Friends Series.   

The recent remodel focused on enhancing the bar area and table seating, including an expansion of the bar and installing banquettes in portions of the seating areas.  

“These improvements will enhance the guest dining experience,” said Gary Wertish, President of Minnesota Farmers Union. “We feel it’s important to keep improving the restaurant to give our guests and staff the best experience and dining space.”  

Farmers Kitchen + Bar is also launching a new supper series, Farmers + Friends, that is designed to bring the community of farmers and diners together for a multi-course, locally-sourced meal created by Executive Chef Kris Koch.  

“We are really excited to host these new suppers and create a unique opportunity for our guests to interact directly with the people that grow and produce the food they eat,” said Kris Koch, Executive Chef. “Each unique menu will feature ingredients produced by our farmer friends. During the event, each farmer will talk about their farm and the products they produce that are being utilized in each dish.” 

Pam Benike, Prairie Hollow Farms, will be a featured farmer at the March 20 Farmers + Friends dinner.  Photo credit: Katie Cannon Photography 

The first supper of the series is launching on Sunday, March 20 at 5:00 p.m. with future suppers being held on April 27 and May 25 at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $125 and can be purchased online at farmerskitchenandbar.com. Each ticket includes an appetizer reception with welcome cocktails/mocktails and a four-course supper. Farmers to be featured include: 

March 20 

• Encore Farm 
• Pastures a Plenty 
• Prairie Hollow Farm 

April 27 

• A-Frame Farm 
• Baker’s Field Flour & Bread 
• R+R Cultivation  

May 25 

• Pettit Pastures  
• Shepherd’s Way Farms 

Additional farmers and menu details for the April and May events will be announced at a future date. Farmers Kitchen + Bar is open Wednesday – Sunday from 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. For more information on Farmers Kitchen + Bar, or to purchase tickets to the Farmers + Friends Supper Series, visit farmerskitchenandbar.com and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @farmerskitchenandbar and Twitter @farmersktchn.

New Coloring and Trivia Book - Magic of the Mississippi - Highlights the Sites of America’s Greatest River

Author Robert Turek recently announced the release of his latest book, Magic of the Mississippi, a coloring and trivia book dedicated to America’s Greatest River, available now on Amazon.

Magic of the Mississippi brings the sights of the Mississippi River home. From historic river towns along the river, to incredible structures built for transporting our nation's bounty. Through hand illustrated coloring pages, the magic of the Mississippi River comes alive. Created for all ages to discover the beauty and importance of America’s Greatest River.

The mighty Mississippi abounds with history, which Magic of the Mississippi captures through detailed illustrations. Over 20 single sided coloring pages are included, as well as trivia facts to learn more about the Mississippi River.

“My hope is this book will encourage others to envision the Mississippi as more than a river; it’s a place of great importance to our country. My love of conservation and preserving history is captured in the pages of this book so as to inspire others to love the Mississippi as much as I do,” notes Turek.

Detailed coloring and trivia pages feature historic river cities, including:

•  Minneapolis, Minnesota
•  Nauvoo, Illinois
•  Hannibal, Missouri
•  St. Louis, Missouri
•  Memphis, Tennessee
•  New Orleans, Louisiana

More information, along with a free coloring page, can be found on Facebook. Plans are underway to stock the book in retail stores throughout the region.

City Launches 'Reimagine Public Safety' Awareness Campaign

Via the March 9th City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

The City of Minneapolis has launched the "Reimagine Public Safety" campaign to build awareness about new unarmed response services and community-based programs.

This campaign is important because it showcases how the community was a part of designing public safety solutions. These programs and services are available to you right now.

Watch and share the campaign launch videos on the City's Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook accounts. Be sure to follow the City of Minneapolis for ongoing Reimaging Public Safety campaign content about these new public safety services each week. #IAMMPLS

Led by the Office of Performance & Innovation, this campaign will feature programs from the Office of Violence Prevention, Behavioral Crisis Response, 311, Regulatory Services-Traffic Control, and 911. Learn more on the City’s website.

Mill City Commons Seeks Part-time Executive Director

Mill City Commons is a membership organization for neighbors 55+, most of whom choose to live in the Central Riverfront District of Minneapolis. We are a welcoming neighborhood “village” that builds community through an exciting array of programs that connect us with each other, and the resources needed to maintain and support vibrant lives as we age.

MCC is hiring for the Executive Director (ED) position. The part-time ED is responsible for overseeing all aspects of MCC, ensuring efficient operations and financial stability, while maintaining a consistently high level of member satisfaction. Approximately 25 hours a week. Click here to see the job description.

Interested candidates can apply here on Indeed.com or send their resume and cover letter to applytomcc@millcitycommons.org.

Mia to Launch Fourth Season of "The Object" Podcast on March 14

Via a March 8th e-announcement:

The Object, an award-winning podcast produced by the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia), begins its fourth season on Monday, March 14. Written and hosted by Tim Gihring, a writer at Mia and long-time journalist who has covered arts and culture for more than 25 years, The Object unearths the true, often surprising stories behind the artwork in Mia’s collection.

Season Four of The Object opens with an episode about the Jade Mountain Illustrating the Gathering of Scholars at the Lanting Pavilion - a beloved fixture at Mia better known as Jade Mountain. The story traces the sculpture’s improbable journey from the Chinese emperor’s palace to the home of Minnesota lumber baron T.B. Walker, a story of power and obsession, beauty and loss.

Future episodes will explore the myth of Georgia O’Keeffe, the lost history of the first African-American artist, and our remarkably strange habit of using animals to tell stories about ourselves. New episodes will debut every month.

“Every object tells a story, and that story is ultimately about us—our courage and creativity, our desires and fears,” Gihring said. “This season we’re delving even deeper into the hidden histories of art and what they can tell us about ourselves. What drives us, what do we want, and what will we do to get it?”

The Object podcast launched in 2019 and is among the most popular arts podcasts in the country. In 2021, it was honored by the American Alliance of Museums as one of the top museum podcasts. Learn more here and listen on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and wherever podcasts are available.

The Object is made possible by generous support from Ameriprise Financial.

March 2022 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a March 8 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 * * * * *

Hennepin Ave
• Tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Avenue continues. You will see crews continue excavating soils from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Hennepin Ave intersection. This is to tunnel the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Avenue.
o There may be short, periodic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Nicollet Mall
• The dewatering well and pumps are installed near the southeast corner of the Nicollet Mall and Washington Ave intersection.
  o The eastern sidewalk along Nicollet Mall between Washington Ave and 3rd St N is closed through spring 2022. Access is open to the Marquette Plaza building.
  o Pedestrians are still able to use the sidewalk on the west side of Nicollet Mall.
  o The crosswalk at the Washington Ave intersection remains open.

2nd Ave
• Crews have installed the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection. Tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Avenue has begun.
  o The sidewalks remain open on both sides of the road.
  o The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 2nd Ave S intersection remains open.
  o 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S until the project is completed in 2023.
o 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 Avenue continues. You will see crews continue excavating soils from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection. This is to begin tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Avenue.
  o There may be short, periodic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Mississippi River Portal
• Crews continue excavating soils above the storm sewer tunnel and grouting near the existing retaining wall at the Mississippi River portal site.
  o The parking lot off Portland Ave east of the Stone Arch Bridge, near Mill Ruins Park, is temporarily closed for the winter and will reopen spring 2022. This closure is necessary to complete the work in this area safely and efficiently.
  o The parking lot near Portland Ave and W River Pkwy remains open.

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.

* * * * * Long-term closures/restrictions * * * * *

• The north westbound lane, bike lane, and parking lane will be closed on Washington Avenue between Portland Ave and Park Ave. These closures will remain in place until project completion. This is necessary for the contractor to utilize the existing shaft to connect the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
  o During this closure, pedestrians can still use the sidewalks along Washington.
  o Crosswalks across Washington Ave and Portland Ave will remain open.
  o Bicyclists will share the traffic lane.
  o 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 closed between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall through spring 2022. The contractor is utilizing an existing shaft in this area to connect the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
  o During this closure, pedestrians share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  o 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 closed through spring 2022. The dewatering well and pumps are installed in this area.
  o The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains closed.
  o Pedestrians can use the sidewalk on the west side of 4th Ave S.
  o The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 4th Ave intersection remains open.
  o 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.

* * * * * 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.

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

Meet Spoon and Stable's New Wine Director

Claire Maxwell Photo Credit: Erin KincheloeToday, Soigne Hospitality Chef and Owner Gavin Kaysen announces Claire Maxwell as the new wine director at Spoon and Stable.

Claire has been a member of the Spoon and Stable team as a wine steward and server since 2019. She previously held positions at The Bachelor Farmer in Minneapolis, Chateau Saint Croix Winery in Wisconsin, and La Garagista Vineyard in Vermont where she worked closely with wine producer and James Beard Award winner Deidre Heekin to plant the first vines. Her intuitive knowledge about wine pairings comes from her time spent in Italy where she was originally introduced to regional wine and food culture as well as her dedication to studying French wines.

“Claire’s work ethic these past three years has been admirable. She not only has the skill set, but the grace, the determination, and the passion, and the fortitude to elevate the wine program at Spoon and Stable. I am grateful she accepted this new role and I look forward to helping her grow as a leader in our community,” says Kaysen.   

Under her guidance, the wine list at Spoon and Stable will be slowly updated to reflect a broad spectrum of winemaking regions, underdogs of the wine world, adventurous pairing options, boutique and rare winemakers, and accessible favorites. The well-rounded offering will have an eye towards expansive geographic regions to pair well with the spectrum of flavors from the kitchen. Special additions will include vineyards with deep traditions, carefully considered growing practices, and thoughtful winemaking processes that allow the grape to express itself.

“I’m excited about lesser known winemakers in remote places whose winemaking processes allow a true expression of the grape. These winemakers show the same type of honesty and discipline I see in the Spoon and Stable cuisine,” says Claire. “I’m looking forward to adding these limited allocations and rare offerings for guests to explore alongside options that already have a place in people’s hearts.”

Starting in March, the expanded by-the-glass list will offer the most accessible way for guests to explore new regions and winemakers. Curated selections of limited stock bottles will be featured in a new section titled “For Your Consideration” section with half glass and full glass pours.

Some examples include:

Kitá Wines - Camp 4 Cabernet Sauvignon

Kita Wines and the Camp 4 vineyard are owned by the Santa Ynez Band of the Chumash Tribe. The vineyard is also planted on historic Chumashland, where Winemaker Tara Gomez makes wines in partnership with the land, soil, and climate. Though Kita Wines recently shuttered operations, Tara has emerged as an incredibly talented winemaker and will continue to make wine under her personal label, Camins 2 Dreams. 

“This bright-eyed and alert bottle from Winemaker Tara Gomez has so much verve and life. It makes me think of late afternoon sunlight shifting back and forth through windy branches and crushing wild mint through a thicket of blackberries,” says Claire. “I can’t wait to see what Gomez does next. She has a long career ahead of her.”

Paolo Vodopivec - Vitovska Solo MM17

Vodopivec is devoted to working solely with the Vitovska grape, which is indigenous to the rugged limestone landscape of the Karst region in Northeast Italy and Southwest Slovenia where the biodynamically farmed estate is located.

“Since tasting this bottle, I think about the wine probably once a day. It whispers with mineral qualities like celery salt, pounded stone, and hints of quince or unripe melon,” says Claire. 

Giacomo Fenocchio - “90dì” Barolo Bussia Riserva 2015

In making this bottle, the wine is left to macerate on the grape skins for an exceptionally long 90 days. This process, called submerged cap fermentation, is now very rare, but historically was the norm in Barolo. It is the most gentle way to extract tannins, structure, flavor, and color without also inviting astringency into the wine. It creates pronounced tannins that are fine, but assertive, like high-grit sandpaper, and a wine that is elegant, powerful, and supremely drinkable.

“Giacomo Fenocchio is teetering on the edge of stardom in Barolo. His wines are truly top tier, but fly just enough under the radar so they aren’t impossible to find, for now!,” says Claire.

Visit the Spoon and Stable website for access to the most recent wine list.

Follow Spoon and Stable on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

February 2022 by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

Redistricting for Minneapolis Wards and Park Districts Has Been Finalized

Via a March 4 e-newsletter from the City of Minneapolis:

The Minneapolis Charter Commission has approved new boundaries for 13 City Council wards and the six Park & Recreation districts. These ward and park district maps are available on the City website.

The Charter Commission updates boundaries of ward and park districts to reflect new population counts after every census. A redistricting group composed of commissioners and nine advisory member volunteers was formed last year to do this work using 2020 census data. After considering public input received during public hearings and in writing, the group recommended the new ward and park district maps that commission members approved March 2.

The City Council will now consider and approve updated election precincts and polling place locations, all of which go into effect this year. Every registered voter in Minneapolis will receive a notice of their ward, precinct and polling place via a postal verification mailing before the primary election.

The new City Council ward boundaries will be used for Council Member elections in November 2023. The new Park & Recreation district boundaries will be used for Park Board Commissioner elections in November 2025.

All maps considered during the redistricting process are displayed in the map Submission Gallery. The Gallery was created to allow anyone to submit a map for public review and comment. Meetings of the Redistricting Group and Charter Commission are archived at the City’s YouTube channel.

Miller Lite’s Free Rides Returns to Offer Safe and Free Transit This St. Patrick’s Day

Via a March 3 e-announcement:

Program provided more than 8 million safe and Free Rides over three decades

Molson Coors is encouraging those celebrating St. Patrick’s Day to plan their free and safe ride home through its 2022 Miller Lite Free Rides program. In partnership with local mass transit, participants in Minneapolis/St. Paul can ride the Metro Transit for free, beginning at 6 p.m. through the end of service.

“We encourage all to celebrate responsibly this St. Patrick’s Day. Our Miller Lite Free Rides program promotes responsible consumption and a safe ride home,” said Tami Garrison, Community Affairs Director. “Providing safe, free transportation is just one of the ways Molson Coors is working toward giving back to the communities where we work and live.”

The St. Patrick’s Day Free Rides program began in Minneapolis/St. Paul in 1997 and has since provided a safe ride home to more than 1.2 million individuals in the metro area. The city’s New Year’s Eve program, which began in 2011, provides on average 34,000 individuals with a safe ride home each year.

Since the start of the program, more than eight million people have gotten home safely during major holidays on the bus, rail or train systems in cities across the country through Free Rides. This year, the St. Patrick’s Day program will resume after pausing the past two years due to COVID-19, and will serve those celebrating in both Milwaukee and Minneapolis/St. Paul.

“Our partnership with Miller Lite’s Free Rides program is a longstanding tradition in our community,” said Wes Kooistra, Metro Transit General Manager. “We’re proud to partner with Molson Coors to offer a safe option to those celebrating this St. Patrick’s Day.”

Visit the Metro Transit’s website to review transit routes and make plans for a safe ride home this holiday.

Documenting a Reckoning: The Murder of George Floyd Exhibit Opens at Mill City Museum on March 17

Exhibit on display through June 5, Free and open to the public during regular business hours. Opening Reception is Friday, April 1, 6-8 p.m.

A new exhibit at Mill City Museum examines that long year in the Twin Cities from the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, to the Chauvin trial with a guilty verdict on April 20, 2021, as documented in 54 images by diverse professional, community and student photographers. The goal is to highlight the people and events that changed the region and showcases some of the powerful images created during that time.

On April 1, an opening reception for Documenting a Reckoning will include a panel discussion led by Brent Lewis, New York Times photo editor and exhibit juror with Octavio Jones, freelance photographer, Gene Garvin, community photographer and others whose work is featured in the exhibit. The reception also commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Hors d’oeuvres and cash bar will be available.

The exhibit runs March 17-June 5. The Mill City Museum is located at 704 S 2nd Street.

Documenting a Reckoning: The Murder of George Floyd is presented by the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota and was previously on view at the Elmer L. Andersen Library.

NOTE: MNHS requires a mask be worn while indoors at all MNHS sites. For more information, visit mnhs.org/covid-19.

MPRB Announces New Weekly Program "Walk & Talk with a Naturalist" Beginning Friday, March 4

Via a March 2nd e-announcement from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

Starting Friday, March 4, people ages 18 and up are invited to join an MPRB naturalist for a FREE series of afternoon strolls on and near the Mississippi River. This series runs Fridays, March 4 through May 27, 1 to 2pm.

Walks begin at the Water Works Pavilion, 425 West River Parkway, at the foot of the Stone Arch Bridge. The leisurely pace includes stops to observe and discuss a different topic each week, such as:

• History of the Falls and Mills

• Winter Animal Adaptations

• Sketching in Nature

• Bird Migration on the River

• Spring Flowers and Native Plants

• Mindfulness in Nature

• Wildlife

Walk & Talk sessions are free, but registration is required: 

• Online: bit.ly/WaterWorksWalkTalk or minneapolisparks.org/register (event #132013​)
  
  
• Phone: 612-230-6400 (Mon – Fri, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm)​
  
  
• In person: visit any recreation center

The Mill City Farmers Market is Hiring Part-Time Staff & Interns

Via a recent e-announcement from the Mill City Farmers Market:

Part-time Day Staff

The MCFM is hiring part-time day staff to help operate the market. Each day staffer works 9 to 14 Saturday shifts from 6:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. between May and October, with additional trainings in April.

Gain customer service and problem solving skills while making connections in the local food community. Hourly compensation is $15/hour.

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Applications are due March 7.

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Nutrition Internship

Designed for nutrition and public health students seeking an opportunity to learn about our local food system. Interns work together to create nutritious recipes featuring market produce and complete a community engagement project focused on nutrition, sustainable farming or food access.

Requires a minimum of 120 hours, between May and October. Applications due March 6.

The Dayton’s Project Announces Unilever as Newest Tenant

Via a February 28 e-announcement:

The Dayton’s Project signed a new lease, welcoming Unilever to the historic redevelopment. Unilever is set to occupy 13,445 SF of the building. As the global leader in sustainable business, Unilever has a long history of supporting the communities it serves, having been ranked as sector leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the tenth consecutive year. Unilever’s lease follows Ernst & Young and Uncommon Retail, signaling momentum in downtown Minneapolis and The Dayton’s Project..

“Our team is thrilled to have Unilever as part of The Dayton’s Project,” said Jim Montez of Transwestern. “This new lease shows a great sign for downtown Minneapolis. Companies are interested in coming back, and The Dayton’s Project is the perfect space to bring your people to. The recent redevelopment has provided tenants with rare outdoor space, a luxury gym, and flexible places to work and meet within the building.”

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The Dayton’s Project was built in 1902 and originally was used as the Dayton’s Department Store, which later became Target. In 2017, ownership group 601 W. Companies bought the property with the goal of taking the 1.2 million square foot project into retail and modern office space. The Dayton’s Project now boasts exclusive amenities for tenants, including a rooftop deck, a private lounge, high-end fitness center, and library.

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Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of Beauty & Personal Care, Home Care, and Foods & Refreshment products, with sales in over 190 countries. Unilever’s products are used by 2.5 billion people every day and includes iconic brands such as Dove, Hellmann’s, Shea Moisture, Seventh Generation, and Vaseline.

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Jim Montez, Erin Fitzgerald, and Alex Baron of Transwestern with Mercedes Barsh of The Telos Group represented ownership in the transaction. Emily Nicoll of CBRE represented Unilever in the deal.

Updated Recycling and Trash Info Will be Mailed to Residents in March

Excerpt from the February 25 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

City of Minneapolis Solid Waste & Recycling customers should watch their mailboxes in the coming weeks for their service guides. The guides include a collection schedule for the year, information on all services provided by Solid Waste & Recycling, an overview of what happens to your waste, how we’re doing and a list of accepted materials. The guide also highlights ways to reduce waste generated at home.

More resources

A searchable disposal guide is available on the City website showing the best way to dispose of household items.

Join the Minneapolis Solid Waste, Recycling and Organics Facebook group to post questions you have on how to get rid of an item.

Email notifications. Sign up to receive recycling reminders. This email will land in your inbox every other week with:

• A reminder for your recycling day.
• Holiday notices with any collection day changes.
• Seasonal notices such as the start and end of yard waste pickup for the year.
• Upcoming events to reduce waste, to reuse your stuff and to drop off household hazardous waste.
• Fun facts about recycling and composting.

Learn more about recycling and organics on the City website.

Writings by Hennepin County Jail Inmates Featured in Online Theater Performance

FreeWriters, an organization founded in the Hennepin County Jail to provide daily creative writing opportunities for county jail inmates, is featured in a new online performance by Ten Thousand Things Theater Company (TTT), which seeks to highlight the creative voices of Minnesotans living in correctional facilities and individuals within the disabilities community.

The Ten Thousand Voices reading is available to watch by visiting this page and includes pieces written by FreeWriters participants, as well as individuals from Minnesota Correctional Facility Faribault; Minnesota Correctional Facility Shakopee; and Minnesota Correctional Facility Stillwater, as well as MSS–Supporting People with Disabilities. The recording is free with donations encouraged to support this program.

Faye M. Price directs the latest Ten Thousand Voices reading, with Peter Vitale providing music direction. Artist interpreters reading the works include Cristina Florencia Castro, George Keller, Kurt Kwan, Tracey Maloney and Mikell Sapp.

“People living in correctional facilities and individuals with disabilities have been enormously impacted and challenged by the pandemic,” says TTT Artistic Director Marcela Lorca. “We are honored to share and amplify their voices.”

“I am thrilled to see pieces written by members of the FreeWriters program performed as part of the Ten Thousand Voices series,” said Nate Johnson, founder of FreeWriters. “Creative expression is an integral part of healing and has been proven to help reduce recidivism. I am grateful to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office for their continued support and to Ten Thousand Things Theater Company for their partnership.”

A sample of the performance featuring a reading from a FreeWriters participant can be viewed here. 

About FreeWriters
FreeWriters provides inmates in the county jail system with creative writing opportunities that improve mental health, reduce recidivism, and inspire hope about life after incarceration. The vision of FreeWriters is to help county jail inmates rediscover their existing aptitudes and aspirations for a future free of incarceration. FreeWriters was founded by Nate Johnson, a former prosecuting attorney, veteran, and lifelong lover of literature and creative writing. Nate leads FreeWriters classes for current inmate-writers, as well as community-based writing groups for former inmates and other local writers.

About Ten Thousand Things Theater Company
Ten Thousand Things awakens the creative spirit of audiences and artists by bringing essential and exceptional theater to people from all backgrounds and life experiences. The vision of Ten Thousand Things is to ignite empathy and revolutionize belonging through the power of compelling and inspiring theater. Ten Thousand Things hosts free performances at shelters for the unhoused, correctional facilities, low-income senior centers, after-school programs, women's shelters, and locations in greater/rural Minnesota — any place where people are who do not have easy access to the arts.

Event Details Announced for 2022 NCAA Women’s Final Four

With the 2022 NCAA Women’s Final Four approximately 40 days from tipoff, the NCAA, Minnesota Local Organizing Committee and ESPN announced event details that include opportunities for game tickets, numerous free events and community initiatives surrounding one of America’s marquee sporting events.

Championship week will culminate Friday, April 1, with the national semifinals at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Central. The national championship game will be played at 5 p.m. Central Sunday, April 3, with all games carried live on ESPN. Target Center in downtown Minneapolis will be the site for the games and for the crowning of the 2022 national champion.

“The 1,000 student-athletes who will be part of the 2022 championship have one goal in mind during March Madness, and that is to advance so their team is playing in Minneapolis on April 1,” said Lynn Holzman, NCAA vice president of women’s basketball. “While the basketball will be highly competitive and a champion crowned, the Women’s Final Four is more than three games. We hope as many people as possible take advantage and experience all that is being offered during the week.”

Though a national champion will be crowned inside the Target Center on April 3, interactive fan activities outside the venue throughout the week will be equally unforgettable. Click here for the full list of NCAA Women's Final Four events.

“The 2022 Women’s Final Four will be extraordinary because of the strong working relationship and cooperation between the NCAA, the Minnesota Local Organizing Committee, the City of Minneapolis, and the State of Minnesota” said Debbie Estes, co-chair of Minnesota Local Organizing Committee. “We have been working closely with the NCAA since the event was awarded several years ago, and it will truly be an honor to host the Women’s Final Four for a second time and an opportunity to provide a uniquely Minnesota hospitality experience for basketball fans from around the country.”

The Northwest Sportshow Returns to Minneapolis Convention Center March 10-13

The Midwest’s largest outdoors show, the Progressive® Insurance Northwest Sportshow®, presented by Discover Boating™, makes its return to the Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Ave S, March 10-13, 2022. Guests are invited to find inspiration for all outdoor adventures– both big and small– and peruse their favorite travel destination or sales on the newest products and accessories for fishing, hunting, camping, boating and more. 

Returning after a pandemic hiatus with everyone’s favorite attractions and features for all ages, the Northwest Sportshow is the best place to gear up for fun outdoors.

Get an inside scoop of what the Northwest Sportshow is offering in 2022:

• A one-stop marketplace for outdoor fun– see and shop the Midwest’s largest collection of fishing tackle, electronics, outdoors products and gear.
• Explore the latest models of boats (from pontoons and fishing boats to runabouts to PWC) and ATVs, including accessories for every outdoor activity imaginable– from boating, fishing, hunting, camping and more.
• Learn from the pros! More than 20 experts will share tips, tricks and practical know-how during free on-site seminars, offering a great way for attendees to boost skills– whatever the experience level.
• Check out the Extreme Raptors Show and experience the beauty and charisma of these fierce, feathered predators up close as master falconer and wildlife rehabilitator, Jonathan Wood guides guests through the fascinating history of falconry.
• Calling all kids! Enjoy family-friendly features and educational opportunities to learn all about the outdoors. Key highlights include the Trout Pond, a catch-and-release fishing pond to introduce youngsters to the fun of fishing, and Fishing 101, covering basic skills for anglers of all ages.

Daily schedule:

• Thursday, March 10 from 1pm - 9pm 
• Friday, March 11 from 12pm - 9pm 
• Saturday, March 12 from 10am - 8pm 
• Sunday, March 13 from 10am - 5pm

Adminission is $12 for adults; children 12 and under get in FREE when accompanied by a paid adult.  For more information: www.northwestsportshow.com, Facebook and Instagram.