Waxing Crescent Moon Over Campbell Mithun Tower

Submitted by Ric Rosow

The moon made a repeat appearance to set over the top of the Campbell Mithun Tower early on the morning of December 12th. After seeing it over the US Bank Stadium during the evening, I projected that its trajectory would take it low over the Tower around 12:30 A.M. It did just that.

This photograph is the result of processing one image twice. I processed it first to bring out the detail in the surface of the moon. That left the rest of the image in the dark of night. I processed the same image a second time to increase the exposure so that the Tower was visible, just as it was when I was viewing the scene. That blew out all the detail in the moon and made it a white hot featureless object. I could have used two images and then blended them together. I took those types of images but when it came to processing, it was more straight forward and effective to use one image.

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The Tower itself is very interesting at night. When lit up this way at night it takes on the features of a mask of a lion’s face. When viewing the Tower at night I immediately think of the lion from a rather famous play that premiered in Minneapolis in 1997 before going onto Broadway. If you did not see the play on one of its repeat appearances here, then perhaps you saw the movie or have heard the music.

See more of my work @ricrosowphotography @treslechesartgallery @nemaa.

Miller Lite Offers Free, Safe Transit in Minneapolis-St. Paul This New Year’s Eve

Via a recent Press Release:

The 33rd annual Free Rides program is part of the company’s mission to help individuals celebrate the new year responsibly

This holiday season, Molson Coors is spreading more than holiday cheer – it is also spreading awareness for making safe, responsible choices when celebrating by offering free rides on New Year’s Eve through its 2021 Miller Lite Free Rides program. Miller Lite will offer free rides in Minneapolis-St. Paul on the Metro Transit beginning at 6 p.m. The Lightrail will be free until 11:30 p.m. on December 31 and bus lines will be free until 3 a.m. on January 1.

Since its inception, Metro Transit has provided over 1.5 million safe rides to the Minneapolis-St. Paul community through the Free Rides program. Free Rides began in Minneapolis-St. Paul in 1997 with its St. Patrick’s Day program, which has since provided over 1.2 million rides. Its New Year’s Eve program began in 2011, providing on average 34,000 free rides per year.

“We are proud to offer safe and convenient rides every day of the year, and especially on New Year’s Eve when we know people appreciate having more options to travel responsibly,” Metro Transit General Manager Wes Kooistra said. “This continued partnership is part of our commitment to enhancing public safety for our riders and the communities we serve.”

In partnership with local mass transit, the Free Rides program has provided free access to the bus, rail or train systems in key markets across the country for more than three decades to encourage celebrating responsibly. Since the beginning of the program, over eight million people have gotten home safely because of Free Rides. This year, the program will serve six different metro areas across the country, including Denver, Milwaukee, Chicago, Dallas, Minneapolis/St. Paul and Phoenix.

“I’m incredibly proud to be part of an organization that is so committed to the communities it serves. At Molson Coors, we want the places where we work to be even better places to live and that includes ensuring safety in those communities,” said Tami Garrison, Community Affairs Director, Molson Coors. “Our Free Rides program is just one of many ways Molson Coors helps others celebrate responsibly. People can ring in 2022 knowing they have a transportation alternative on New Year’s Eve.”

Along with the Free Rides program, the company offers other opportunities throughout the year to prevent drunk driving, all which align with the company’s commitment to implement initiatives to prevent alcohol-related incidents. Riders can make their plans for a safe ride home by reviewing routes on the local public transit website at https://www.metrotransit.org/.

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Requests Your Input on Draft Neighborhood Traffic Calming Process

Via a December e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Minneapolis Public Works wants your input on a new process we are proposing to address traffic safety concerns and traffic calming requests on neighborhood streets. The process provides a way for community members to request traffic calming and for Public Works to review those requests fairly, transparently, and equitably. 

The proposed process for neighborhood traffic calming seeks to provide a process that:

• better considers the overall network;
• is data-driven and transparent; and
• is more equitable.

An overview of the new neighborhood traffic calming process is available here. 

You can find additional details about the proposal here, including the link for sharing comments. We are accepting comments on the draft through December 31.

After reviewing feedback, Public Works will finalize the process early in 2022. We will share final details on how you can request traffic calming in the spring.

Experience the Twin Cities Offers Minnesota Gift Boxes with Twin Cities Delivery by Santa Claus

Experience the Twin Cities is now offering its unique holiday gift option of locally-curated gift boxes delivered locally by Santa Claus via the colorful Experience the Twin Cities bus. This year the company is offering a selection of five gift boxes, with options for any age and relationship. Santa Claus will deliver the gift box within a 20-mile radius of the Twin Cities.

The gift boxes are curated with goods from local businesses, including The Cookie Store, North Mallow, Annie B.’s Candy, NorthMade Co., We Are Nuts, and more. The children box, Armful of Hugs, comes with a Minnesota activity book, vinyl sticker, Santa cookie, and hot cocoa bomb. The MinneSNOWta box offers to warm hearts with a knit hat from Northern Print Co., chocolates from Abdallah Candies, mittens, a hot cocoa kit, and more. Other gift box options include the Sota Vibes gift box and two sizes of the deluxe Season of Joy gift box. Prices range from $40 to $99, with local Santa delivery included for free. Nationwide shipping and customized corporate orders are also available.

Armful of Hugs

MinneSNOWta

Season of Joy

Experience the Twin Cities has been in business for ten years and is typically known for its guided specialty tours to local breweries, wineries, restaurants, and more. When tours were cancelled last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the company developed the gift box offerings as a special way for Minnesotans to support and enjoy local businesses from home.

“We had so much fun delivering these gift boxes last year, we made it bigger and better this year with more local brands involved and more gift box options,” said Rebecca Pfeiffer, owner of Experience the Twin Cities. “The Santa delivery really gives it a special touch. It’s quite a scene when we pull into a neighborhood with our colorful bus and Santa Claus at the wheel. It has also appealed to businesses who are trying to stay connected to their work-from-home employees. We’re happy to be part of that connection and deliver a fantastic gift box with Minnesota goodies in the process.”

Experience the Twin Cities gift box offerings are available through their website. The company is also offering a variety of festive tours through the holiday season. Follow them on Facebook.

Experience Thermaculture This Winter with Hewing Hotel's Rooftop Pool and Sauna

Photo credit Hewing Hotel

With spectacular views of the Minneapolis skyline, the Hewing Hotel's rooftop spa pool is the largest commercial sauna in Minneapolis. In true Minnesota winter fashion, the pool is an ideal destination for a polar plunge before warming up in the accompanying sauna.

After a COVID-induced hiatus, the hotel is bringing back weekly Thermaculture Thursdays starting December 9. Experience a guided sauna experience on the Hewing Hotel’s magnificent rooftop terrace, led by veteran guide Ericka Jones. Guests 21 and older are welcomed for a gentle sauna steam meditation with essential oils, followed by rooftop hot pool soak and social. Thermaculture Thursday events are comprised of three rounds of guided sessions, followed by a 20 minute cool-down session. During the cool-down rounds, attendees have the opportunity to use the cold plunge, rehydrate, sample essential oils, and enjoy a spectacular view of the Minneapolis skyline from the pool.

Reservations

Photo credit Hewing Hotel

November 2021 by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

U of M College of Science and Engineering (CSE) Winter Light Shows Scheduled for Dec. 9, 10, 11

Join the University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering (CSE) for three dazzling light shows designed by science and engineering students. The high-tech light show features more than 250,000 LED lights set to music written and recorded by University of Minnesota students.

The 2021 CSE Winter Light Show dates are: 

• Thursday, December 9
• Friday, December 10
• Saturday, December 11

Shows are at 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m. on the Civil Engineering Building Courtyard, 500 Pillsbury Drive SE. Each show will last about 20 minutes. All events are free and open to the public. No tickets or reservations required.

Now in its 10th year, the show has become a campus winter tradition. Lights will surround the semi-circular Civil Engineering Courtyard and will be synchronized to music for a 360-degree sensory outdoor experience. Features include a giant 22-foot lighted tree, two 8-foot 3D snowman signs, 8-foot lighted arches, a 5-foot-by-12-foot lighted pixelated changeable sign, a 6-foot circular light structure, 10 two-foot lighted snowflakes, and several lighted trees. The students estimate that the show includes more than five miles of lights and extension cords.

The light show is presented by the University of Minnesota Tesla Works student group. The show features the technical and creative skills of University of Minnesota science and engineering students and their ability to have fun on campus—even in the winter.

Location: Civil Engineering Building Courtyard, 500 Pillsbury Drive SE

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel - December 3rd Project Update

Via a December 3rd 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.

Latest Project News

Chicago Ave

• Crews will begin setting up materials and equipment to install the dewatering well on the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Chicago Ave intersection the week of December 6.
  • There will be no sidewalk or lane closures needed to complete this work.
  • There may be short, periodic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Nicollet Mall

• Crews are setting up the dewatering well and pumps near the southeast corner of the Nicollet Mall and Washington Ave intersection.
  • The eastern sidewalk along Nicollet Mall between Washington Ave and 3rd St N is temporarily closed.
  • Pedestrians are still able to use the sidewalk on the west side of Nicollet Mall.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave intersection remains open.

2nd Ave

• Crews are installing the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection. Drilling, excavating, and installing the shaft walls will continue through January 2022.
  • 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.

 4th Ave

• The east lane of 4th Ave S between 3rd St S and Washington Ave remains closed near the Washington Ave intersection. This is needed to complete setting up the dewatering well and pumps. The dewatering well is anticipated to be completely set up and running by the end of December.
  • The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains temporarily closed until the dewatering well is setup.
  • 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 remain open.

 Portland Ave

• The west lane of Portland Ave remains closed between 3rd St S and Washington Ave. This closure is needed to install the dewatering well and pump on the southwest corner of the intersection. Work is anticipated to be completed by the end of December.
  • During this closure, bicyclists share the open traffic lane and pedestrians should use the eastern sidewalk.

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.
  • 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.
  • 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 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.
  • During this closure, pedestrians share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  • The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave remain open.

Stay Connected

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

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

Minneapolis Public Works is Hiring and Training

From the December 3rd City of Minneapolis e-news:

Join the teams that keep Minneapolis running, and help spread the word about these opportunities with friends, family and community.

Minneapolis Public Works is hiring and training for several job openings: 

• Public Works service worker 1 trainee: performs manual labor, learns to drive and operate equipment. Supports the department’s construction and maintenance activities. You will be supported in obtaining your CDL Class B license.
• Public Works service worker 1: performs manual labor and drives and operates equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Public Works service worker 2: performs manual labor, drives and operates heavy specialty equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Water distribution operator 1: performs manual labor and semi-skilled work to maintain the City’s water distribution system.
• Water distribution operator 1 trainee: performs manual labor to maintain the City’s water distribution system.

Applications are accepted Dec. 6-Jan. 16, 2022.

Read more information online and attend one of several upcoming virtual and in-person information sessions throughout the application period.

Applicants can apply online on the City website.

The Cowles Center presents "Who Brought the Humbug?" Dec. 10-19

The Cowles Center is pleased to present Rhythm Street Movement's holiday special, Who Brought the Humbug? 

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A holiday party has begun but a humbug is afoot - can Ricci Milan and the gang find out who it is and continue celebration? Live music (with a full funk band), incredible tap dance, and a refreshing holiday story with sweet (but not cloying) morals make this a delightful show for the whole family.

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The in-person, eight-show run begins on December 10, and runs through December 18; Shows take place at 7:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:00 PM matinees are available on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the run. Tickets range from $35-$75 ($75 tickets include a VIP package). Learn more at thecowlescenter.org/humbug21.

MPRB Announces New “Scholarship FUNd” Program for Minneapolis Residents 17 and Under and Adults 55+

Via a November 30 e-announcement from Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) now offers a new scholarship fund designed to help more Minneapolis residents participate in a wide variety of MPRB recreation program.

The new fund, known as the Scholarship FUNd, is a result of the MPRB Board of Commissioners and Superintendent Al Bangoura’s commitment to investment in youth. The Scholarship FUNd will work together with the existing Recreation Fee Waiver program, which is part of the MPRB’s Recreation Fee Assistance Program.

“We have never turned a child away from our recreation centers because of an inability to pay fees,” said MPRB Superintendent Al Bangoura. “This new fund simply adds another avenue for more Minneapolis residents to participate in our recreation programs and other activities.”

The Scholarship FUNd is available to Minneapolis residents 17 and under and 55 + with financial limitations. The process for applying and income eligibility are the same for the FUNd and the MPRB Fee Waiver program and include completing an application and providing additional documentation, including proof of residence.

Fee waivers are for the instructional portion of fees only and not for supplies, extra fees, or admission costs for field trips. The Scholarship FUNd covers all costs up to $300 per person, minus a $5 participation fee per activity. A Scholarship FUNd application must be completed every year. Scholarships FUNDs may be used for recreational programs and activities, lessons, youth sports, environmental and naturalist programs, and 9-hole golf. 

In addition to being included in the MPRB 2021/22 budget, the Scholarship FUNd is also funded through individual donations. When anyone registers for a program, they are given an opportunity to make a tax-deductible donation in any amount directly to the Scholarship FUNd. Individuals can also make a tax-deductible donation directly to the Scholarship FUNd at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/volunteer_and_give/

Additional information about the Scholarship FUNd, including guidelines on how to apply – and applications in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali - are available at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/recreation_fee_assistance/. 

Inline Skating and Indoor Running Return to U.S. Bank Stadium for This Season's Winter Warm-Up

Via a November 30 e-announcement:

Public Inline Skating and Indoor Running Activities To Be Offered This December and January at U.S. Bank Stadium

Winter Warm-Up, a recreational program featuring inline skating and indoor running, returns to U.S. Bank Stadium this December. Thirteen Winter Warm-Up sessions will be offered this season beginning on Tuesday, December 14 and ending on Thursday, January 27. Winter Warm-Up is open to all ages and will take place on the stadium’s main and upper concourses from 5 – 9 pm on Tuesday and Thursday nights, with the exception of Thursday, December 23.

“We welcome the community back to U.S. Bank Stadium this December for the return of Winter Warm-Up,” says Michael Vekich, Chair of the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority. “We look forward to hosting affordable and accessible recreational activities for the public each year, including the beloved tradition of inline skating and indoor running at U.S. Bank Stadium.”

Tickets for U.S. Bank Stadium’s Winter Warm-Up will go on sale Tuesday, December 7 at 10 am and will be available online only at www.ticketmaster.com. Individual sessions are available for $12 per person. Inline skaters and indoor runners will be required to sign a waiver prior to participating in these events at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Inline skating is offered this year on the stadium’s main concourse. Open skating is offered from 5 – 8 pm with speed skating from 8 – 9 pm. Skaters will need to bring their own equipment to participate as skate rental will not be available. Skaters are required to bring their own safety gear, including helmets.

Indoor running is offered this year on the stadium’s upper concourse. Proper footwear is required for all participants. No strollers are allowed while running or while on the running course.

Updated information for U.S. Bank Stadium’s Winter Warm-up will be posted at www.usbankstadium.com.

LUSH Lounge & Theater to Reopen this December Under New Ownership

Newly Remodeled LUSH Lounge & Theater Reopens With Betty & Earl’s In The Kitchen 

After an extended closure, LUSH Lounge & Theater is set to reopen under new ownership before the end of the year. In addition to the ownership changes, the kitchen is getting a new tenant as well with Betty & Earl’s taking over kitchen operations creating a fun and casual bar menu. 

New decorThe ownership team includes Andrew Rausch and Jared Lawrence. Rausch brings twenty years in the hospitality industry and twelve years performing as Crystal Belle. Lawrence owns and manages multiple businesses and has performed on stage for the last thirteen years as Nikki Vixxen. The pair will oversee operations and programming of all entertainment.  

"I am so excited to see the revival of this bar that has changed lives and brought so many together. To be able to open our doors and welcome a community to experience top-notch entertainment in a truly premier space is a dream come true,” said Rausch. “As a previous employee, I am thrilled to share the growth of LUSH! We have been working hard to create a new atmosphere filled with new and exciting experiences for everyone and I can't wait to share it with the Twin Cities!" 

“As an entrepreneur where my businesses focus on the guest experience, I am excited to bring that perspective to the leadership team,” said Lawrence. “I look forward to welcoming guests into our warmer and inviting space filled with vibrant colors, artistic details and textures, paired with great food and drink.” 

Rausch and Lawrence have partnered with Jason Matheson of FOX 9 and myTalk 107.1 and Betty and Earl’s co-owner, Jennifer Lueck, to purchase LUSH and the 11,000 square-foot building located on Central Avenue in Northeast Minneapolis for $2.6 million.

Jason Matheson

“This project combines so many dreams of mine that I’m overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Matheson. “Not only do I own a restaurant centered around my papaw’s name and biscuits, but having that restaurant inside of a venue that I’m a co-owner of is beyond exciting. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I’m thrilled to work with great people like Andrew and Jared to create a space that not only reflects our community but invites everyone to a space where all are welcome.” 

The menu at LUSH will, of course, feature Betty & Earl’s signature biscuits in a variety of sandwiches and sweets alongside other offerings.  

“I’m so excited for the next phase for Betty & Earl’s,” said Lueck. “The new menu will go beyond biscuits for an entirely new experience for not only Betty & Earl’s, but LUSH as well. As a resident of Northeast for the last eighteen years, I’m excited for the opportunity to work and invest in my own community.” 

LUSH Lounge & Theater is located at 990 Central Avenue NE and will be open Wednesday-Sunday. To view a full calendar of entertainment, see menus and more, visit lushmpls.com and follow them on social media @lushmpls.

Cynthia Froid Group Announces 2021 People Serving People Holiday Toy Drive

Thank you to Cynthia Froid Group for continuing their annual Holiday Toy Drive to spread holiday cheer to children and families supported by People Serving People’s shelter.

There are two ways to participate:  

• Order via these links to shop People Serving People’s wishlist on Target or Amazon.
• Drop toys off at their office, 709 S 2nd Street (across from the Mill City Museum) between November 29th and December 8th. 

Thank you to everyone for your generous spirits! 

50+ Minnesota Craft Breweries and Brewpubs to Participate in the First-ever Minnesota Pint Day, December 8

LIMITED-EDITION GLASSWARE WILL SUPPORT MN CRAFT BREWERIES & BREWPUBS

MN Pint Day pint glasses available at 50+ breweries and brewpubs starting December 8.

On December 8, more than 50 Minnesota craft breweries and brewpubs will celebrate Minnesota Pint Day through the sale of limited-edition MN Pint Day pint glasses. MN Pint Day was created this year by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, the state’s nonprofit association for craft breweries and brewpubs.

The day and special glassware are meant to help breweries draw customers and generate extra revenue on a typically slow day at the start of the quiet winter 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. The pint glass artwork pays homage to the variety of landscapes in Minnesota, according to the featured artist, Andrew Saur of Castle Danger Brewery. “From all corners of the state, we can come in together from the cold, raise a glass and say ‘Cheers!’ to Minnesota Pint Day!”

Per Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild's Interim Executive Director, Jessica Talley, “MN Pint Day gives craft beer fans a fun excuse to gather their friends, grab a few pints, and support their favorite breweries and brewpubs. When customers visit, purchase beer, or buy merchandise and gift cards over the holiday season, it really does have a huge impact for these small businesses, especially during the slower winter months.”

To see all participating breweries, details about their promotions, and glassware artwork, please visit: https://www.mncraftbrew.org/event/mnpintday/

Event Parkway Closures for November 27 Moustache Run

These street and parkway closures will take place Saturday, November 27, from 8:30am-1:30pm for the Moustache Run events:

• Main Street - 6th Avenue SE to Plymouth Ave
• West River Parkway - Plymouth Avenue to E 38th Street
• Stone Arch Bridge

Click the "Read More" button below to view and read additional information on the event.

The Northrup King Building Special Holiday Newsletter

Via a November 23 e-newsletter:

With Holiday Saturdays, Small Business Saturday and First Thursday, shopping for unique and locally-made gifts has never been easier! You're invited to join the Northrup King Building community on or before First Thursday (December 2) to enter the Northrup King Holiday Contest, with a chance to win two tickets to the Van Gogh Immersive! No purchase necessary!

The Northrup King Holiday Contest

This holiday season we're increasing the joy with a chance to win some special prizes for Art Lovers! Enter our Northrup King Holiday Contest for your chance to win!

• 1st Prize: A pair of tickets to our neighbor, Immersive Van Gogh! 
• 2nd Prize: 3 lucky art lovers will win $100 in "Art Bucks" to spend at the Northrup King Building on gifts for the family, or a special treasure for your very own!
• 3rd Prize: 5 lucky art lovers will win $50 in "Art Bucks" to spend at the Northrup King Building!

To enter, visit the Northrup King Building during Small Business Saturday on November 27th or during First Thursday on December 2nd and browse our open studios to find a QR code to enter! 

Make the trek to the upper floors to find unique entry codes to scan. Each floor visited increases your chances to enter. Four Floors = Four chances to enter!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Entries are limited to one entry per floor visited. The drawing will be held the Friday after our Dec 2nd First Thursday Event. Participants do not need to be present to claim their prize.

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Holiday Contest Open Studio events:

Small Business Saturday | Nov 27 | 10am - 6pm

First Thursday | Dec 2 | 5pm to 9pm

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Small Business Saturday, November 27

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In a year where supporting small businesses means more than ever to our communities, make Small Business Saturday your day to get out and shop local!

We've extended our Small Business Saturday Hours to give you as much time as you need to browse hundreds of unique and creative works from local artists and creators and take care of all your holiday gift needs.

Saturday, November 27th, 10:00 AM- 6:00 PM

Can't make it in? Many of our artists have online shopping availability, too! Check our website and browse studios from the comfort of your own home.

First Thursday, December 2nd

It's our last First Thursday of the year! First Thursdays are a great night to visit the artists and discuss the process and inspiration behind the incredible art, and take home your one of a kind treasure. With Four Enormous Floors to explore, this history filled building is truly a Twin Cities iconic destination.

Thursday, December 2nd, 5:00 - 9:00 PM

Plenty of Free Parking, Passenger Elevator, and Comfortable Spaces.

Holiday Saturdays - Every Saturday!

Holiday Saturdays are back at the Northrup King Building! Browse hundreds of unique and creative works and gifts from local artists and creators under one roof and rest easy with the knowledge that when you buy local, you never have to worry about shipping delays! It's a great year to support Minnesota artists and creative businesses.

Saturdays in November and December (through December 18th), Noon to 4:00 PM 

Are you an early bird when it comes to holiday shopping? Select studios will open their doors at 10am on Holiday Saturdays, and offer a special holiday treat for those ready to get an early jump on their holiday shopping! Look for the "Holiday Lane" signs on participating studios.

2021 Holidazzle Events and Loring Park Schedule

The 2021 Holidazzle returns to in-person with food, beverages, shopping, entertainment and fun in Loring Park on December 17-19, plus other events. Thank you to the mpls downtown council for continueing this tradition.

2021 Holidazzle Schedule:

Nov. 26 – Dec. 3: Holidazzle Yeti at Peavey Plaza

Dec. 4: Santa Zoom virtual calls

Dec. 11: Santa Zoom virtual calls

Dec. 17-19: Holidazzle in Loring Park

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Holidazzle in Loring Park hours:

Friday, December 17 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday, December 18 from 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Sunday, December 19 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update, Nov. 19

Via a November 19 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.

Latest Project News

Nicollet Mall

• Crews are setting up equipment and materials and will beginning drilling the well near the southeast corner of the Nicollet Mall and Washington Ave intersection. 
  • The eastern sidewalk along Nicollet Mall between Washington Ave and 3rd St N is temporarily closed.
  • Pedestrians are still able to use the sidewalk on the west side of Nicollet Mall.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave intersection remains open.

2nd Avenue

• Crews continue setting up equipment and materials to install the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection. Drilling and excavation of the new access shaft will begin the week of November 29 and work is estimated to take two months to complete.
  • The sidewalks will 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 Avenue 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.

4th Avenue

• The east lane of 4th Ave S between 3rd St S and Washington Ave remains closed near the Washington Ave intersection. This is necessary to complete setting up the dewatering well and pumps. This work is anticipated to be completed in early December.
  • The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains temporarily closed until the dewatering well is setup. 
  • 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 remain open. 

Portland Avenue

• The west lane of Portland Ave remains closed between 3rd St S and Washington Ave. This closure is needed to complete installation of the temporary dewatering well and pump setup on the southwest corner of the intersection. Work is anticipated to be completed in early December. 
  • During this closure, bicyclists will share the open traffic lane and pedestrians should use the eastern sidewalk.

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue excavating soils above the storm sewer tunnel and will begin removing the top five feet of the existing retaining wall at the Mississippi River portal site
  • The parking lot off Portland Ave east of the Stone Arch Bridge, near Mill Ruins Park, remains temporarily closed for the winter and will reopen spring 2022. This closure is necessary to complete the work in this area safely and efficiently. 
  • The parking lot near Portland Ave and W River Pkwy remains open.
• 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 sidewalk along Washington Ave remains closed between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall through spring 2022. The contractor will be utilizing an existing shaft to perform work for connecting the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
  • During this closure, pedestrians will share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  • The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave remain open.

Stay Connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates:

https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/central-city-tunnel/

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

Eclipse in the Clouds by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Mill District resident Ric Rosow

This photograph was taken at 5:45 a.m. on November 19th as the moon was in the final stages of its partial eclipse. The weather forecast was correct. Skies were clear at the start of the eclipse. Then several hours in clouds began to form. In the later portions of the eclipse event, clouds totally obscured the moon and then as in the photo, would open up momentarily for an interesting view. I set the camera to take a photograph every 20 seconds. As the eclipse progressed I changed exposure to account for the moon turning darker as more and more of it passed into the shadow of the earth. Four times I shut the camera off to change the battery. I felt like I was back in college studying for an exam, pulling an all-nighter photographing from midnight to 6:22 a.m.

The next lunar eclipse is a total eclipse on May 15, 2022. I hope to see and photograph that one as well. See more of my work @ricrosowphotography @treslechesartgallery @Nemaa.