A Danger-ous Golf Tournament (Mini-Golf that is)

Save the date for an afternoon of golf, beverages and fun!

North America's most famous river flows right on by to serve as a distant water hazard, as well as a reminder of our mission as the Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership invites you to a special fundraising golf tournament.

Except this isn't any golf tournament, and you don't need your own clubs or any experience in order to play and have a good time. Join in for an afternoon of miniature golf, prizes, food, beverages and a ride on the Danger at Betty Danger's Country Club in Northeast Minneapolis. 

Your participation will help support and extend MRP’s ability to focus on the important work of building a vision, increasing access and being a champion for the river.

Come join us August 15, starting with registration at 2:30 p.m., for a Northeast twist on the traditional golf tournament, one where anyone can play!

Save the date and watch your inbox for an invitation soon!

New Candidate in Ward 3 City Council Race

Tim Bildsoe, President of the North Loop Neighborhood Association, has entered the 3rd Ward City Council race. Press Release below:

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:
Contact Person: Bryan Hollaway
Committee Name: Tim for Ward 3
Phone: 239-209-1644
Email Address: TimforWard3@gmail.com

New Entrant to Minneapolis Ward 3 City Council Race Brings Proven Leadership and Results to Residents

Tim Bildsoe, community organizer, businessperson and North Loop resident, officially announces his candidacy for the open Ward 3 Minneapolis City Council seat.  Bildsoe is seeking to represent his community to improve the livability for all residents and the prosperity for local businesses.

As president of the North Loop Neighborhood Association, Tim Bildsoe has led initiatives to secure funding to repair crumbling roads, add green space and engage neighbors on important issues facing the community.

Bildsoe brings a wealth of experience to local government leadership. His public service resume includes 16 years of successful, collaborative work as a member of the Plymouth City Council. As a council member, he worked tirelessly on quality of life initiatives to improve the lives of his constituents. He brought about positive change in the areas of neighborhood safety, exceptional city services, well-maintained infrastructure and open space preservation. 

As a Minneapolis council member, Bildsoe is poised to hit the ground running as he continues to serve fellow Minneapolis Ward 3 residents.

“I’m very proud to live and work in Minneapolis and I look forward to serving all of the people of Ward 3.  We need proven leadership and experience as Minneapolis faces the real and growing challenges of affordability, development and neighborhood safety throughout the city,” said Bildsoe.  

Bildsoe’s top priorities include:

• Strategic economic development
• Improved communication from City Hall
• A safe Downtown that is a destination for residents, workers and visitors
• Improved pedestrian safety
• Mississippi Riverfront environment
• 21^st century transportation system
• A better value for city tax dollars

 “I understand how government works – and, as importantly, I bring a passion for Minneapolis. I want to help build on its success,” Bildsoe said.

On November 7, Ward 3 voters will have the opportunity to help shape a strong future for Minneapolis by electing Tim Bildsoe.

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Minneapolis History: The Aerial Experience

Minneapolis celebrates its 150th birthday this summer. Go back on an aerial journey through time to experience the roots of the Mill City. Minneapolis experienced an economic boom in the last two decades of the 19th century carried by a thriving milling industry. For half a century, Minneapolis was the flour mill capital of the world. Just before the stock market crash of 1929, wealthy entrepreneurs including Wilbur B. Foshay were spending absurd amounts of money on real estate, specifically tall structures. Once the Great Depression hit, Minneapolis would go into a major period of recession and the city turned into a gathering place for unemployed men surrounded by flophouses and vacant buildings. In the early 1960's the city still never shook off the aftermath of the great depression. They received federal funding to demolish 40% of the city in just a few years. Many historic structures were lost in this large scale demolition for no apparent reason. Watch this historical drone-based documentary narrated by Bob Michaels and you will learn much more than they teach you in school.

Our Last Frontier

Minneapolis Park and Recreation (MPRB) continues to grow the system

By Meg Forney, Minneapolis Park Board Commissioner-At-Large

The riverfront above the falls I call our "Last Frontier."  MPRB is committed to providing access to the mighty Mississippi for underserved residents of North and NorthEast Minneapolis just as our fore bearers committed to developing the Grand Rounds and the Chain of Lakes.  It is for this commitment (when translated into access, acreage, facilities and investment) that the Trust  For Public Land has once again honored Minneapolis for having the best park system in the nation. That's five years in a row.   Parkscore.tpl.org./rankings.php#sm.0001hsjha3242dylw7t1w8q9br58kg

With the addition of Scherer and Sheridan parks and soon the Water Works at Fuji Ya, the frontier is inching closer to being settled. In just my first term these past three years, MPRB has been meeting its commitments.  We have secured another three miles of river front.  We are envisioning a playground, picnic shelter and pathways at Sheridan Memorial Park.  We are seeking funding from the legislature for a last connection of trail at the Great Northern Greenway at 26th Avenue North to Ole Olson Park, a missing linkage to Theodore Wirth Park through north Minneapolis.  The community is providing input for this settling of the frontier through the Upper Harbor master development team: United Properties, First Avenue and Thor Development.

Keep your eye on the prize: access. What might be the next frontier?

Meg Forney can be reached at megf@visi.com or www.facebook.com/meg.forney on Facebook.

Minneapolis Edges Out Saint Paul to Retain Title of Nation's Best Park System

Minneapolis has the best park system in the United States, according to The Trust for Public Land's 6th annual ParkScore® index, which was released today by the non-profit organization.

Minneapolis narrowly edged out cross-town rival Saint Paul to earn top honors for the second consecutive year. San Francisco climbed into third, pulling ahead of Washington, DC, and Arlington, VA, mostly because of improved access to basketball courts at schoolyards now open after hours and on weekends. Portland, Irvine, New York, Madison, and Cincinnati rounded out the top 10.

Fresno shook up the bottom of the ParkScore rankings, vaulting from last year's 97th to a tie for 90th place (with Hialeah and Jacksonville, FL). Fresno's climb stemmed mostly from the creation of "joint use" agreements that open school playgrounds and athletic fields for public use after school hours and on weekends. Fresno had been the lowest ranking ParkScore city from 2012-2015.

"Joint use of school facilities is a major national trend, and a very positive development. Keeping playgrounds and athletic fields open to the public when schools are closed helps cities significantly increase park access at relatively low cost. The Trust for Public Land enthusiastically supports joint use, but it does not replace the need for new park acquisition and open space preservation," said Will Rogers, President of The Trust for Public Land.

"Everyone in America deserves to live within a 10-minute walk of a park. Parks are proven to improve physical and mental health, increase property values, and bring neighbors together to nurture the personal bonds that make our communities special," said Charlie McCabe, Director of The Trust for Public Land's Center for City Parks Excellence.

ParkScore rankings are based on three factors: Park Access, which measures the percentage of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park (approximately ½-mile); Park Size, which is based on a city's median park size and the percentage of total city area dedicated to parks; and Facilities and Investment, which combines park spending per resident with the availability of four popular park amenities: basketball hoops, off-leash dog parks, playgrounds, and recreation and senior centers.

In addition to ranking park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities, ParkScore also provides a one-to-five park bench rating summary that provides a snapshot of local park quality. In 2017, three cities received the highest possible 5-bench rating: Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and San Francisco.

ParkScore champion Minneapolis scored strongly on all ParkScore rating factors. In Minneapolis, 97 percent of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, and 15 percent of city area is reserved for parks. Second-place finisher Saint Paul nearly matched Minneapolis for park access, amenities, and investment but ceded the top spot due to its smaller median park size (3.7 acres vs. 6.6 acres).  Third place San Francisco outperformed both Minnesota cities for investment and access, but was third overall, mostly because of its comparatively small median park size, 1.6 acres. Boise, ID, led the nation with 7.2 dog parks per 100,000 residents and tied for 35thposition overall (with Raleigh).

"You can't have a great city without a great park system," said Adrian Benepe, Senior Vice President and Director of City Park Development for The Trust for Public Land. "Our top-ranked park systems are terrific, but all cities have room to improve. ParkScore is a tool that city leaders can use to guide park improvement, helping planners identify where they should focus their efforts, so more residents can live within a 10-minute walk of a well-planned and well-maintained park."

According to The Trust for Public Land, the 10 highest-ranking park systems in the United States are:

Rank	City	Park Bench Summary	Raw Score (Max 100)
1.	Minneapolis	5.0 park benches	87.5
2.	Saint Paul	5.0 park benches	82.5
3.	San Francisco	5.0 park benches	80.0
4.	Washington, DC	4.5 park benches	79.0
5.	Portland, OR	4.5 park benches	77.5
6.	Arlington, VA	4.5 park benches	76.5
7.	Irvine (tie)	4.5 park benches	74.0
7.	New York (tie)	4.5 park benches	74.0
9.	Madison, WI	4.5 park benches	73.5
10.	Cincinnati	4.0 park benches	71.5

The lowest-ranking park systems are:

90.	Fresno (tie)	1.5 park benches	33.5
90.	Hialeah, FL (tie)	1.5 park benches	33.5
90.	Jacksonville, FL (tie)	1.5 park benches	33.5
93.	Laredo, TX (tie)	1.5 park benches	32.5
93.	Winston-Salem (tie)	1.5 park benches	32.5
95.	Mesa, AZ	1.5 park benches	31.5
96.	Louisville	1.5 park benches	31.0
97.	Charlotte	1.0 park benches	29.0
98.	Fort Wayne (tie)	1.0 park benches	28.5
98.	Indianapolis (tie)	1.0 park benches	28.5

Gilbert, AZ was not ranked because the city did not provide parks data to The Trust for Public Land.

ParkScore uses advanced GIS (geographic information system) computer mapping technology to create digital maps evaluating park accessibility, making it the most realistic assessment system available. Instead of simply measuring distance to a local park, ParkScore's GIS technology takes into account the location of park entrances and physical obstacles to access. For example, if residents are separated from a nearby park by a major highway, ParkScore does not count the park as accessible to those residents (unless there is a bridge, underpass, or easy access point across the highway). Esri and The Trust for Public Land collaborated on GIS design and implementation, helping to make ParkScore the most comprehensive park evaluation tool ever created.

ParkScore is free and open to the public to use as a roadmap to guide park improvement efforts. Users can browse interactive maps and zoom in and study park access on a block-by-block basis, pinpointing the neighborhoods where parks are most needed.

For more information about ParkScore, visit www.tpl.org/parkscore and join the discussion on Twitter @TPL_org, #ParkScore.

The Trust for Public Land creates parks and protects land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come. Millions of people live near a Trust for Public Land park, garden, or natural area, and millions more visit these sites every year. To support The Trust for Public Land and share why nature matters to you, visit www.tpl.org.

SOURCE The Trust For Public Land

2017 Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Award Recipients Announced

On Thursday, May 18, Preservation Award partners Preserve Minneapolis, AIA Minneapolis, and the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission announced the recipients of 2017 annual Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Awards during a luncheon at International Market Square. 

The following honors were presented at the 27th Annual Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Awards:

 Historic Restoration, Rehabilitation, or Adaptive Reuse Project

700 Central

Hewing Hotel

New Addition to an Historic Building

Residence on Emerson

Charles Frederick Keyes House

Grassroots: Advocacy & Education

4Word Homes and Design, LLC/Robin O’Brien’s Home Restoration   

The Steve Murray Award

Robert M. Frame, III

The Minneapolis Preservation Awards annually recognize projects, individuals, and organizations that celebrate the heritage and historic character of Minneapolis. Nominations are selected based on their careful attention to the quality of design, architecture, workmanship, and materials as well as the positive impact on the surrounding neighborhood and community.

A jury comprised of two Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commissioners, two members of the American Institute of Architects Minneapolis Chapter, and two board members from Preserve Minneapolis reviewed the nominations.

For more information about the award program and details of the 2017 recipients, visit the AIA Minneapolis website.

Check out the evolved Water Works design concept and share your thoughts

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) and the Minneapolis Parks Foundation recently unveiled an evolved concept for Water Works. Water Works is a transformative park development project overlooking St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge that will bring significant new historic, cultural, and recreational amenities to one of the most iconic locations in Minneapolis.

The updated concept embeds a new park pavilion into the historic ruins of the Bassett and Columbia mills, as well as expands naturalized gathering spaces with direct access to public amenities. Click the link below for an in-depth tour of the updated concept and share your thoughts:

Take the survey, images included...

Exciting Design Update for Water Works Park Unveiled

Minneapolis Parks Foundation and Minneapolis Park Board seek community input on evolved Water Works design concept

On Monday, May 1, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the Minneapolis Parks Foundation presented to the public an evolved concept for Water Works at the first of two community meetings. Water Works is a transformative park development project overlooking St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge that will bring significant new historic, cultural, and recreational amenities to the most iconic location in Minneapolis and the region. The updated concept embeds a new park pavilion into the historic ruins of the Bassett and Columbia mills, as well as expands naturalized gathering spaces with direct access to public amenities.

Following the approval of the original Water Works concept in 2015, the Park Board and the Parks Foundation retained a multi-disciplinary design team headed by Damon Farber Landscape Architects and HGA Architects. The design team is completing schematic design through construction administration for phase one of the Water Works project, known as the Mezzanine Phase, which is slated to begin construction in 2018.

The design team evolved the Water Works concept while addressing anticipated site-specific intricacies, such as the condition of buried ruins, service access to the pavilion, and cultural significance to diverse peoples. Further investigation during the schematic design process revealed the remnants of the Bassett Sawmill and Columbia flour mill to be so rich that the best course of action was to inhabit and activate them, rather than leave them largely buried, as originally proposed. The design team also chose to uphold the site’s potential as a place to reveal untold stories, in acknowledgement of St. Anthony Falls as both the birthplace of the city’s milling history and a spiritual place that has shaped cultural and economic connections for indigenous people and immigrants.

“Living cities need to respect places of power by both honoring the past stories that unfolded before and making room for new stories to emerge, giving voice to communities that may often be left unheard. This is true for Water Works,” says Tom Evers, Executive Director of the Minneapolis Parks Foundation. “With this transformative design, we are striving to ensure that Water Works continues to be a place for people and peoples to share stories, be heard, and create new connections with each other and the most dramatic point on the Mississippi River.”

A natural venue for stories and storytelling

Water Works features that conduct the storytelling theme include the mill-embedded pavilion, tree-sheltered city steps, a naturalized playspace, and the potential for revealed mill-era ruins and artifacts.

“Today, the St. Anthony Falls and Stone Arch Bridge landscape is one of the most popular public spaces in the region, with 2.5 million visits annually and climbing,” says Evers. “Water Works is conceived as a place to express embedded histories, tell important stories, and make new memories.”

With this new round of community engagement, the Park Board is also seeking deeper input on the proposed program for Water Works, which exemplifies the theme of storytelling. Park visitors will be able to experience the landscape’s layered stories through the park design itself. Over time, visitors will also add their own stories through art, play, performance, food, and social media.

The process to the planned 2019 grand opening

Throughout May, the Minneapolis Park Board and the Parks Foundation will be engaging the public about the new concept. The engagement includes the two open houses, several focus groups with underrepresented communities, meetings with individual and organizational stakeholders, and an online survey. In June, Park Board staff intends to present the revised design concept, together with community input, to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board of Commissioners. Should the community embrace the new concept, and the Park Board approve it, the design team will continue schematic design and construction documents ahead of the planned 2018 construction start.

Through the Parks Foundation, the majority of Mezzanine Phase funding will be provided by philanthropic investment. In 2015, the Parks Foundation launched the RiverFirst Capital Campaign, which has to-date raised $12.3M in philanthropic gifts and commitments. It is anticipated that private funding will accommodate any additional expense incurred during the Water Works Mezzanine Phase because of the updated concept.

Click on images below for full size versions:

  

Water Works Park Update: Community Invited to View Water Works Design Progress

Two open houses will be held on Monday, May 1, 5:30-8pm, at Mill City Museum, and Tuesday, May 2, 11:30am-1:30pm, at the Water Works site

RSVP for the May 1 Event...

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the Minneapolis Parks Foundation are hosting two community open houses to inform the public about progress on the Water Works project. Water Works is a transformative park development project adjacent to St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge that will bring significant new historic, cultural, and recreational amenities to the most iconic location in Minneapolis and the region. The open houses will be held 6-8pm, Monday, May 1, at Mill City Museum, and 11:30am-1:30pm, Tuesday, May 2, at the Water Works site.

In 2016, the Minneapolis Park Board retained, in partnership with the Parks Foundation, a multi-disciplinary design team headed by Damon Farber Landscape Architects and HGA Architects to complete schematic design through construction administration for phase one of the Water Works project, known as the Mezzanine Phase. The 106 Group, a cultural resources consultant, has been working with the design team on identifying significant historical and architectural resources on the site. Construction is slated to begin in 2018, with completion in 2019.

Water Works open house agendas

At both open houses, community members will be able to see updated designs and hear from Park Board and Parks Foundation staff and the design team. Registration is not required for either public meeting.

The Monday, May 1, open house will begin at 6pm and be preceded by a walking tour of the Water Works site at 5:30. Following the tour, the meeting will proceed with a presentation by Park Board and Parks Foundation staff and design team members, followed by one-on-one discussion and opportunities to comment on the designs.

The Tuesday, May 2, meeting will have no prepared presentation. Community members are invited to stop by and speak with staff and designers, view the designs, and share their comments. In case of inclement weather, the alternate location for the May 2 meeting is the Crown Roller Building, First Floor Innovation Room, 105 S 5th Ave, Minneapolis.

RSVP for the May 1 Event...

Minneapolis River Current

*****Events and Activities*****

Weisman Art Museum

Weisman Art Museum, 333 E. River Road

http://weisman.umn.edu/

Dear Darwin

On exhibit February 25 – July 23

Featuring the work of local artists Vesna Kittelson and Carolyn Halliday and New York based artist Julia Randall, Dear Darwin presents their individual explorations on the themes of natural science, evolution and the figure of Darwin himself. Kittelson’s books present imaginary “evolved” flowers from Mrs. Darwin’s Garden while Halliday presents passages on evolution written on forms knitted from sausage casings. Randall’s large drawings present creatures and plants that have advanced beyond imagination. For information: http://weisman.umn.edu/event/dear-darwin.

Veterans Clay Vessel | Making Veterans only workshop

Monday, March 20, 9 am – 4 pm

Hosted by visual artists and American war veterans Suzanne Asher and Matthew Krousey, this workshop will address a series of questions raised by WAM’s exhibition The Talking Cure through the creation of clay objects. No experience is required. Lunch will be included. Can’t make it to the entire workshop? No problem. Contact organizers with your availability, and they’ll coordinate drop in times. If you have questions, please contact Laura at wert0067@umn.edu. Reserve your ticket at z.umn.edu/WAMvets. For information: http://www.weisman.umn.edu/event/veterans-clay-vessel-making-veterans-only-workshop.

crash.dance.productions presents:

{IN}SOMNO

March 9 – 12

The Lab Theater, 700 First St. N.

Featuring a company of fourteen dancers, {IN}SOMNO marvels at the breadth of the subconscious and uncovers exactly where we go, in sleep. Our waking experiences and deepest thoughts are brought to vivid intersection each night when we close our eyes and leave our conscious selves. At its best, a restorative eutopia; at its worst, an exhausting infinitude, the sleeping mind creates an alternate universe embedded within the brain’s electrical impulses. $30 premium seating (includes early admission); $15 general admission; $10 student rush (ID required). For information and tickets: https://www.thelabtheater.org/crash.

Keegan’s 15^th Anniversary Celebration

Friday, March 10, 7 pm

Keegan’s Pub, 16 University Ave. NE

Keegan’s invites you to help celebrate their 15th anniversary. All day long you can get $7 fish and chips, $3 Summit taps and $4 Guinness. At 7 pm, they’ll be tapping a special Summit firkin, the Guinness Team will be there and Test Site 67 is coming back to play from 8 pm to 12 midnight.

Milwaukee Road Bar Grand Re-Opening

Friday, March 10, 8 pm

The Depot Renaissance, 225 Third Ave. S.

Come down to the Milwaukee Road Bar for their grand reopening. They’ll be hosting the Stone Arch Trio playing all of your favorite modern jazz and blues favorites. Join your friends or make some new ones while you enjoy the candle light and share in the great vibe of the room, staff and libations. For information on this and other events at the Depot Renaissance: http://renaissance-hotels.marriott.com/events/renaissance-minneapolis-hotel-depot.

St. Patrick’s Day Tent Party

Friday, March 17, 3 pm on

Keegan’s Pub, 16 University Avenue NE

Keegan’s annual St. Patrick’s Day tent party starts at 3 pm with Reverse Cowboy, followed by the Minnesota Police Pipe Band at 4:30 pm and Four Pints Shy at 7 pm. There will be a special food menu and beer and drink specials. For information: http://keeganspub.com/.

Reconnecting North Minneapolis to the Mighty Mississippi

Tuesday, March 21, 5:30 -- 8:30 pm

UROC, 2001 Plymouth Ave. N., Minneapolis

The Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) are excited about the new parkland coming to the riverfront in North Minneapolis and also want it to be more easily accessible for existing North neighborhoods. Residents must currently cross bridges that are unwelcoming to pedestrians and bicyclists to reach the riverfront. Throughout 2016, Eric King of the Center for Urban and Regional Affairs worked with FMR to research connections between Northside residential neighborhoods and the riverfront. At this event, Eric will summarize the study findings that spanned broadly from overcoming physical barriers such as I-94 to socioeconomic concerns such as gentrification due to riverfront redevelopment. Afterward, stick around for a panel discussion about how to take this research and use it to advocate for improved river connections in North Minneapolis. Learn more about this special presentation on the event page or sign up now. (Free. Food provided.) For information: http://fmr.org/events/2017/03/21/reconnecting

Irony, Paradox and Humor Authors

Tuesday, March 21, 6:30 – 9 pm

Vic’s Dining, 201 Main St. SE

Vic’s and The Loft Literary Center bring you a series of events featuring four loft authors (Michael Kleber-Diggs, Janaya Martin, LaDonna Redmond and Kathryn Savage). There will be a mingling reception at 6:30 and readings after a 7 pm introduction by The Loft. From 8 to 9 pm, there will be additional mingling, book signing and opportunity to meet the author(s). The event is free and open to the public. For directions: http://vicsminneapolis.com.

Taste of West Broadway

Thursday, March 23, 5 – 8 pm

Mpls Photo Center, 2400 Second St. N.

Please join the West Broadway Business and Area Coalition for their annual fundraiser. The event is a celebration showcasing North Minneapolis assets. Food, fun and connection! $35. For information and tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-west-broadway-fundraiser-tickets-31452517326.

Samples of Classes and Activities at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts

1011 Washington Ave. S., 612-215-2520, http://www.mnbookarts.org.

Hours: Monday 10 am -- 5 pm, Tuesday 10 am -- 9 pm, Wednesday-Saturday 10 am -- 5 pm, Sunday 12 noon – 4 pm

Class details, instructor biographies, registration details and online registration are all available at above web site. You may also register by calling 612-215-2520. Note: This is only a sampling of classes, focusing on those that are less expensive and that don’t require experience.

A Simple Sewn Sketchbook

with Anna Shepard

Thursday, March 23, 6 – 9 pm

In this evening workshop, make a simple, pocket-sized sketchbook with a flexible spine. Learn how to sew high-quality drawing paper onto thin, but strong, vellum tapes. Then, cover the sketchbooks in handmade decorative paper to make an attractive, soft-cover structure — ideal for the artist on the go! $55 ($50 members) + $25 supply fee. For information and to register: http://www.mnbookarts.org/event-registration/?ee=1343.

Print Your Own Poster – “The Places We Love”

Saturday, March 25, 10 am – 12 noon

The theme and inspiration for this class is “The places we love.” Come to class with ideas for images of your favorite place and create a pressure-printed poster. Participants will use a Vandercook printing press to make multiple copies. Leave with unique artwork to hang in your home. For families with children 6 and up. Adult/child pair: $40 ($36 members) + $8 supply fee; additional participants (adult or child): $20 ($18 members) + $4 supply fee. For information and to register: http://www.mnbookarts.org/event-registration/?ee=1423.

Asemic Writing Special Event

Saturday, March 25, 7 – 9 pm

In association with the Asemic Writing exhibit, there will be a special reading by various asemic artists and scholars, and music by Ghostband. This event is sponsored by Rain Taxi and is free and open to the public.

Sample of Activities and Classes at The Loft

1011 Washington Ave. S.

For information about The Loft’s wide variety of classes and other activities: https://www.loft.org.

Motherhood and Words: Curated by Kate Hooper

Thursday, March 23, 7 – 9 pm

The Loft presents the 11th Annual Motherhood and Words Reading, which local author Kate Hopper launched in 2007 as a way to highlight literature by women writers who are also mothers. This year's readers are Shannon Gibney, Susan Ito and Judy Batalion. Kate Hopper is the founder of Motherhood & Words, author of Use Your Words: A Writing Guide for Mothers, Ready for Air: A Journey Through Premature Motherhood, and co-author of Silent Running, a memoir of one family’s journey with autism and running. Shannon Gibney is a writer, educator, activist and the author of See No Color (Carolrhoda Lab, 2015), a young adult novel that won the 2016 Minnesota Book Award in Young Peoples' Literature. Susan Ito is co-editor of the literary anthology A Ghost At Heart’s Edge: Stories & Poems of Adoption (North Atlantic Books). Her essays, articles and stories have won awards and nominations including the Pushcart Prize and have appeared in numerous publications. Judy Batalion was born in Montreal and worked as an art historian and comedian in London before settling in New York City, where she lives with her husband and two daughters. No suggested admission for this event. For information: https://www.loft.org/shop/product_detail/7/events/812/motherhood_and_words_curated_by_kate_hopper/.

Loft Mentor Series: Reading with Laura Flynn

Friday, March 24, 7 – 8:30 pm

The Loft proudly presents a 2016-2017 Loft Mentor Series Reading with mentor Laura Flynn and participants Anthony Ceballos (poetry) and Trisha Collopy (fiction). Laura Flynn is the author of Swallow the Ocean: A Memoir (Counterpoint, 2008), which chronicles life growing up with her mother's catastrophic mental illness. It was a finalist for the Minnesota Book Award, and a BookSense Notable Pick for March 2008. Anthony Ceballos has been a guest on KFAI’s Write on Radio and Fresh Fruit radio programs and has read for the Intermedia Arts Queer Voices Reading Series, Minneapolis Community and Technical College's Night of Native American Music and Poetry and The Many Faces of Two-Spirit People gallery show at Two Rivers Art Gallery in Minneapolis. Trisha Collopy is a writer, book reviewer and copy editor whose journalism has appeared in the Washington Post, the Star Tribune and many other publications. Her fiction and poetry have been published in Blithe House Quarterly, rock, paper, scissors and the anthology Queer and Celtic. $10; members $5. For information: https://www.loft.org/shop/product_detail/7/events/811/loft_mentor_series_reading_with_laura_flynn/.

Equilibrium: Sham-E-Ali Nayeem with Giles Li

Saturday, March 25, 8 – 9:30 pm

Equilibrium (EQ) is the Loft's Spoken Word series. This EQ features the Loft's Spoken Word Immersion Fellow, Sham-e-Ali Nayeem, with Giles Li, and is co-sponsored with Metropolitan State University's Global Poetry Festival. Also featuring DJ Nak. Sham-e-Ali Nayeem is a poet and visual artist who was born in Hyderabad, India, and raised in both the UK and the US. Recipient of the 2016 Loft Literary Center Spoken Word Immersion Fellowship, her poetry has appeared in numerous publications and anthologies. Sham-e-Ali has performed her poetry both locally and internationally. She is currently working on her forthcoming book of poetry, The City of Pearls (UpSet Press 2017). Giles Li is a nationally recognized performance poet and community educator. His writing has been taught in curricula across the country. His poetry has been published in several places, including ESPN.com and the Asian American Literary Review. He was one of three featured artists in the documentary film Art Beyond Borders, produced by the Transnational Studies Initiative at Harvard University, and also starred in the award-winning short comedy film The Humberville Poetry Slam. They will be joined by two students from this event's cosponsor, Metropolitan State University's Global Poetry Festival. Due to this partnership, this event is free. Due to a partnership with Metropolitan State University's Global Poetry Festival, this event is free. For information: https://www.loft.org/shop/product_detail/7/events/862/equilibrium_sham-e-ali_nayeem_with_giles_li/.

More Than a Single Story: Reclaiming Our Food

Sunday, March 26, 2 – 4 pm

Food has always been a tool for organizing, celebrating and creating community. By those determined to assert and maintain power, it has been a means of gaining control of the people. Human bodies and land—a natural resource like air and water, have been commodified. Food became a privilege instead of a human right. In this discussion with Pakou Hang, LaDonna Sanders Redmond, Princess Titus and Diane Wilson we will hear how colonization and commodification have affected our communities’ relationships with food and how we can reclaim the food that is meaningful to us. For information: https://www.loft.org/events__programs/events__readings/.

Sample of Performances at MacPhail Center for Music

501 Second St. S.

For more information about events (including student performances) and classes: http://www.macphail.org or 612-321-0100.

Spring I Honors Recital

Friday, March 24, 7:30 pm

Antonello Hall

No tickets required. Free and open to the public. For information: http://www.macphail.org/events/spring-honors-recital/.

MacPhail Faculty Performance: MacPhail SongFest

Saturday, March 25, 4 pm

Antonello Hall

Join the MacPhail Voice Faculty for a night of song! No tickets required. Free and open to the public. For information: http://www.macphail.org/events/macphail-faculty-performance-macphail-songfest/.

Mill City Farmers Indoor Winter Market

Saturday, March 25, 10 am – 1 pm

Mill City Museum, 704 Second Street South

Shop for all the local produce, meat, cheeses, and artisan foods you need this winter. Plus, treat your sweetheart to some handmade jewelry, pottery and more from the market’s featured local artists! Enjoy breakfast and lunch from Salty Tart, Heritage Breads, Gorkha Palace and Chef Shack. Wander North Distillery will be at the market, offering samples of their Minneapolis-made craft cocktails. Kids can participate in the Power of Produce kids’ veggie tasting club. Each Winter Market brings a unique celebration of seasonal offerings. From 10:30 am to 1 pm Michael Keyes & Nick Jordan will be playing Americana and bluegrass music. Make sure to check out the Recipe Archive for seasonal meal ideas. For information: http://millcityfarmersmarket.org/event/indoor-winter-market-14/

Mill City Museum Programs and Events

704 Second St. S.

For more information about Mill City Museum events call 612-341-7555, or visit http://www.millcitymuseum.org.

Women of Mill City Family Day

Saturday, March 25, 12 noon – 3 pm

Celebrate Women's History Month with a day devoted to the women of Mill City. Enjoy performances by four Mill City Museum history players portraying 19th and 20th century women from Minneapolis and the surrounding area. Explore the museum exhibits for stories of women who contribute to Minnesota history and Minneapolis' flour milling, such as the female flour packers who began working at the Washburn A Mill in 1902. Test your skills in a "piecework challenge" against the speed of women mill workers who produced 2,200 bags of floor a day. Visitors can also dress up and have their picture taken as a 1950s "mill girl" and make their own paper hat like women flour packers wore in 1919. Included with site admission of $12 adults, $10 seniors and college students, $6 ages 5-17, free age 4 and under and MNHS members. For information: http://www.mnhs.org/event/2284.

Kroening Interpretive Center Programs

North Mississippi Regional Park, 4900 Mississippi Court

For information: 763-694-7693; for map and driving instructions: https://www.minneapolisparks.org/parks__destinations/parks__lakes/north_mississippi_regional_park/.

Outdoors: Bird Signs of Spring

Saturday March 25, 1 -- 2:30 pm

With a change in weather comes a change in activity. Discover the early spring activities of our local birds by seeking out their signs of the season! Join us along the Mississippi River flyway as we watch for fishing eagles, early nesting birds and the return of waterfowl. Free for all ages. For information and to register: https://apm.activecommunities.com/minneapolisparks/Activity_Search/73269.

*****Planning Ahead*****

Alternative Motion Project presents:

AMP#SIX

March 31 – April 2

The Lab Theater, 700 First St. N.

Alternative Motion Project (AMP) continues its commitment to create and present new contemporary dance work with its sixth annual performance, AMP#SIX. Enter a different world with each of the five pieces performed by this dynamic company that offers relentless physicality and dedicated artistry. Includes choreography by Guest Artist Jennifer Glaws (Minneapolis), live original music by composer Dameun Strange (St. Paul) and photography by Ellen Gustafson (Minneapolis). $20 general admission; $17 senior/student; $17 children under 12; $3 off with 2016 MN Fringe Festival Button. Group discounts available. For information and tickets: https://www.thelabtheater.org/amp.

Pangea World Theater presents:

5 Weeks

April 7 – 23

The Lab Theater, 700 First St. N.

Inspired by personal narratives and short stories about partition, 5 Weeks brings to stage the stories of Hindus, Muslims, Parsis, Anglo-Indians and the fate of women and children abducted during the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. Set at this pivotal moment in South Asian history, this play journeys through a complex web of narratives, bringing to life those forced to flee what they once called home, the pressures to choose allegiance and the desperate search for compassion in a time when humanity hung in the balance. $18 general admission; $15 groups of 10+; $12 students and seniors. For information and tickets: https://www.thelabtheater.org/pangea-world-theater.

Ann Bancroft Foundation 20^th Anniversary Celebration

Thursday, April 20, 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Minneapolis Event Center, 212 Second St. NE

The Ann Bancroft Foundation invites you to join them for an exciting evening as they celebrate their 20^th anniversary. They’ll reflect on the past twenty years and look forward to the next as they hear stories of past leaders, supporters and grantees. There will be an entrée food station, cash bar, live and silent auction, alumnae stories and the opportunity to spark a girl’s potential. The Ann Bancroft Foundation empowers girls to imagine something bigger and helps them reach their full potential. $25 (youth) to $125 (adult). For information and tickets: http://www.annbancroftfoundation.org/news-and-events/dreamxchange/.

*****Reminder of Ongoing Activities*****

Depot Rink – Closing Permanently on March 11

The Depot, 225 Third Ave. S.

It's fun, it's romantic, and it's warm in the winter. Named one of the top ten best places in the United States to ice skate by the USA Today and MSNBC, The Depot Rink is a historic downtown Minneapolis train shed that now houses a modern-day, indoor rink with floor-to-ceiling glass walls showcasing views of the downtown city skyline. Take a moment out of your busy winter schedule for the perfect place for birthday parties, family outings and reunions, school field trips, holiday parties, romantic dates, team building and employee appreciation parties. The rink offers public skating or private rink rental, a full catering menu and group party packages. For information about skating and rental rates and rink hours, visit http://www.thedepotminneapolis.com/icerink or call 612-339-2253.

Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul

St. Anthony Main Theatres, 115 Main St. SE

In addition to first-run movies, the Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul exhibits the best of classic and contemporary cinema from around the world, including several topical festivals. To see what’s on the schedule, visit: http://www.mspfilmsociety.org.

Live Music at Stone Arch Bar

The Depot Minneapolis, 225 Third Ave. S.

The Stone Arch Bar occasionally offers live music at the Stone Arch Bar for an enjoyable evening when you can join your friends or make new ones. For schedule information: http://renaissance-hotels.marriott.com/events/renaissance-minneapolis-hotel-depot

Live Music and Movies at Crooked Pint Ale House

Crooked Pint Ale House, 501 Washington Ave. S.

Crooked Pint Ale House is a nouveau urban pub with a local neighborhood feel that offers movies and live music. Live music every weekend features local, regional, and national performers and a range of music styles. Visit http://www.crookedpint.com/music-film-and-events for schedule information. For more information: http://www.crookedpint.com or 612-877-6900.

Real Ghost Tours

Fridays and Saturdays, 8 pm

St. Anthony Main, 125 Main St. SE

Visit the Other Side — beneath your feet is a world few ever see. What secrets do these 19th century limestone walls hold? What lies beneath today's bustling Mill City?

Step into the past with Real Ghost Tours of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Join a real ghost hunter on an expedition into the city's shadowlands, to meet the colorful characters of bygone days, where technology, theater and a bit of the supernatural bring lingering souls to life. Join us at 125 Main Street SE Minneapolis to touch, and be touched by, the past ... if you dare. For more information: http://www.realghosttours.com.

Mill City Museum

Museum Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am -- 5 pm; Sunday, 12 noon -- 5 pm

704 Second St. S.

Built within the limestone ruins of the Washburn A Mill - the National Historic Landmark that was once the centerpiece of the world's flour milling industry - the museum tells the story of a mighty river, a young city and how the production of flour fueled the growth of Minnesota. The museum's 12,000 square foot exhibit space is packed with fun and intrigue for visitors of all ages. Follow your nose to the Baking Lab, splash around in the water lab and enjoy the rooftop view of the riverfront. The eight-story Flour Tower show tells the story of the mill through the voices of former workers and runs throughout each day. The newly restored West Engine House features Kevin Kling's take on Minneapolis history in the movie "Minneapolis in 19 Minutes Flat" and shows every half hour. Fee: $12 adults, $10 seniors and college students with ID, $6 youth ages 5 – 17, free for children under 4 and MHS members. Call 612-341-7555 or visit http://www.millcitymuseum.org for more information.

Music at Aster Café

125 Main St. SE

The Aster Café now has live music on many evenings (and weekend brunches) to complement its food and beverage offerings. For more information and a schedule: http://aster-cafe.com/ .

Guthrie Theater Backstage Tours

Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings at 10 am

Guthrie Theater, 818 Second St. S.

This 45-minute backstage tour offers a look at what goes on behind the scenes at the Guthrie. Discover the stunning and expanded features of this state-of-the-art facility and learn how the Guthrie takes its plays from script to stage, including the many intriguing steps in between. On the tour, visit the Guthrie’s various production departments, including the shops where costumes, sets and props are expertly crafted by talented artisans. The cost is $12 per person; $7 for subscribers, students or seniors. To book a tour, call the Guthrie Box Office at 612-377-2224 or order online at http://www.guthrietheater.org. Additional tours may be scheduled for groups of 20 or more based on availability. Groups may call the group sales office at 612-225-6240 for information and scheduling options. Advance reservations are required for groups of 20 or more.

*****Grants, Awards, Contests and Funding Resources*****

MWMO Capital Project Grants

The deadline for applications for a Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (MWMO) Capital Project Grant is Friday, April 7. Capital project grants are designed to support large-scale, innovative stormwater management projects that protect or improve water quality and habitat within the MWMO watershed. The MWMO provides both technical and financial assistance to eligible projects. Capital project grants are intended for large-scale projects that advance stormwater management technologies and/or attain the MWMO’s high standards for water quality treatment. (Smaller-scale projects may be eligible for a Stewardship Fund Grant.) Eligible projects include those that are either implemented on public land within an MWMO member community or implemented on private property and able show a demonstrable public benefit. MWMO funds are reserved for project components that are above-and-beyond typical stormwater management. Funds cannot be used to fund project components that are required by a regulating authority. In addition to water management, the MWMO underscores habitat improvement and restoration projects, as well as those projects specific to riverbank stabilization and erosion control. For more information (including how to apply): http://mwmo.org/grants/capital-project-grants/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. 

Ironclad Hotel/Apartment Project Gains Approval from Planning Commission

The Ironclad project slated for the corner of Washington & Chicago was approved last week by the City Planning Commission.

Download the staff report (40MB)...

BACKGROUND FROM STAFF REPORT

SITE DESCRIPTION AND PRESENT USE. The subject property is currently a surface parking lot located at Chicago Avenue and Washington Avenue South. The property was historically used by the Chicago, Milwaukee, and Saint Paul Railway as a connection into the rail facilities in the Mill District and was the site of a grain elevator. In 1884, the company built a viaduct to carry depot-bound trains over Washington Avenue near 8th Avenue South. The viaduct was demolished in 1984, but remnants of the stone wall that supported the viaduct remain along Washington and Chicago Avenues. The site is irregularly shaped due to the former location of the railroad.

SURROUNDING PROPERTIES AND NEIGHBORHOOD. The property is surrounded by a mix of uses, including residential units, restaurants, hotels, and offices. Surrounding zoning is mostly B4N Downtown Neighborhood District and C3A Community Activity Center District. There are several surface parking lots in the surrounding area, though some are currently being redeveloped. The site is about one block from the Downtown East light rail station and several bus routes serve the immediate area.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION. The applicant is proposing to construct a mixed use building including 171 dwelling units, a hotel with 148 rooms, approximately 8,000 square feet of retail space, and 388 parking spaces. Additionally, the applicant is proposing a second phase of residential development including approximately 38,000 square feet of additional space and 20 more dwelling units along 9th Avenue South. The initial residential portion would be 14 stories or 148 feet in height. The hotel would be 8 stories or 90 feet tall. The parking spaces would be incorporated in two levels of underground parking and two levels of above grade parking at the rear of the property. This area would be accessed by a curb cut on Chicago Avenue and another curb cut on 9th Avenue South. A valet drop-off would be incorporated at the ground level in the parking structure. Amenities for the hotel and residential uses are proposed above the parking structure at the third floor. The residential portion of the building would be located on the northeast portion of the site along Washington Avenue South and the hotel would be on the northwest side along Chicago Avenue.

The applicant is retaining a significant portion of the existing limestone retaining wall from the historic viaduct, though some deconstruction and reconstruction will be required to allow for construction activities for the building. About 300 linear feet of the wall currently wraps the perimeter of the site along the property lines at Chicago and Washington. Approximately 200 linear feet of the wall would be kept along Chicago and Washington with the proposed new construction. Additional limestone blocks will be utilized as decorative landscape pieces on the site and in the adjacent public right-of-way.

Removal of a portion of the wall allows for direct access from the public sidewalk to the retail spaces on Washington Avenue. The proposal also includes an 18 foot wide walkway along the northeast portion of the property that accesses an additional retail space and provides a pedestrian connection from 9th Avenue South to Washington Avenue. Additionally, the applicant is proposing significant improvements to the public realm along 9th Avenue South.

Mill City Farmers Market Hiring Interns

The Mill City Farmers Market hires a new “crop” of Meet Your Vegetables interns every year in February/March. We encourage Nutrition and Public Health graduate and undergraduate students who are interested in the impacts food and nutrition have on our health to apply! Get experience creating and testing recipes, working and networking with health care professionals, writing nutrition articles for our website, and educating the public on how to eat healthier!

Click here to view the 2017 MYV Job Description!

Please email a cover letter and resume to jenny@millcityfarmersmarket.org by Monday, February 13th to be considered for the 2017 internship.

3rd Ward Council Member Jacob Frey Expected to Announce Run for Mayor

Frey to Join Betsy Hodges, Nekima Levy-Pounds, and State Rep. Raymond Dehn in Mayor’s Race

Council Member Jacob Frey is expected announce his candidacy for Mayor on January 3, 6:00 PM at Dangerous Man Brewing. Here’s the notification from his campaign:

Dear Friends,

The conversation about what kind of Mayor our city needs will take place in 2017. And we want you to join us as we get that conversation underway.

Now more than ever, Minneapolis needs a Mayor with a bright vision to rise together and a proven track record of consistent leadership, even when it's tough. We need a Mayor who is a public champion for job creation and opportunity for every area of our city.

A great city rises when communities unite behind one bold vision. And I am ready to offer my vision for what Minneapolis can be in the coming years. Come join us when we begin sharing this vision on January 3rd.

Together,

Jacob Frey

Job Fair for New Mill District Eatery

Smith & Porter, an independent restaurant, bar, and cafe located in Abiitan Mill City is holding a job fair to hire all staff.

JOB FAIR
Friday Dec 2, Saturday Dec 3, Sunday Dec 4
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Elan Uptown - Conference Room
2837 Dupont Avenue S, Minneapolis, MN
(Call 612-248-9098 at the front door)

AM & PM POSITIONS: Sous Chef, Cooks, Dish/Prep, Servers, Hosts, Bartenders, Serve Assist, Lead Barista, and Supervisors

• Training will start Dec 16 and run through Jan 8--skipping the holidays.
• Opening in early January, Smith & Porter is in the historic Mill City district of downtown Minneapolis just blocks from the Guthrie and Stone Arch Bridge. We anticipate an opening on January 9, 2017.
• Porter Café will be open from 7am-4pm and Smith & Porter from 4pm-10pm.
• Great benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off, Free Underground Parking, Wages start at $11.00!!

http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/hnp/fbh/5898368841.html

The Story So Far: Mill City Running

Having just celebrated their 3rd Birthday, Mill City Running shares the story of how they came to be. Great videography:

Injunction Filed Against Alatus Tower

Citizen’s Group Contends Zoning Overreach

Neighbors for East Bank Livability (NEBL), a group of Marcy-Holmes and Nicollet Island-East Bank neighborhood residents, has filed an injunction against Alatus LLC in their ongoing effort to stop development of a proposed mixed-use condominium tower at the corner of Central Avenue and 2nd St SE.

The site, most recently a funeral home, was originally home to the St. Anthony Falls Commercial Club and is in the St. Anthony Falls Historic District. The city approved a conditional use permit (CUP) to increase the height of the Project from 4 stories to 42 stories, and a variance to increase the maximum floor area ratio (FAR) by more than 600% from 2.04 to 14.42.

NEBL contends the approval is an extreme departure from the city’s own regulations, and would be a dangerous precedent placing historic and residential districts across Minneapolis at risk. According to NEBL, in approving the project, the city’s Planning Commission overruled its own Heritage Preservation Commission’s rejection of the zoning variance finding that the building height was not appropriate for the historic district.

Erich Wunderlich, of NEBL and a Marcy-Holmes neighborhood resident, objects to the project as “…representing extreme overreach. The city has abdicated its responsibility in the planning process. They’ve essentially handed zoning and planning over to the developer. How is this not a citywide issue? If this project is allowed to go forward in its current form, the city will have the ability to ignore guidelines with any future projects in any historic district and any neighborhood throughout the city.”

According to NEBL’s attorney William C. Griffith of the Larkin Hoffman law firm, “This is not a group intent at stopping reasonable development in their neighborhood.  Rather, this is a diverse group of thoughtful residents intent on persuading the City to follow its own rules to bring about reasonable and sustainable development that is respectful of the historic neighborhood in which it is proposed.”

Holiday Dinner to recognize 2nd Precinct First Responders

The 2nd Precinct Advisory Committee (2PAC) announced last week that on December 24, 2916 it will sponsor the 33rd Annual Dinner to recognize the service of First Responders in the precinct.   See the Calendar for details.

The event will be held at the MPD 2nd Precinct Station House, 1911 Central Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418.

2PAC volunteers begin bringing in merchant donated food, and getting the kitchen and serving area ready at 7:00 A.M. on 12/24/16.  They begin serving all on-duty Police Officers and First Responders at 12 noon.  Serving continues until between 10:30 P.M. & 12 Midnight, depending on when people stop arriving.

Left-overs and fresh breakfast items are set out for on-duty Police working on 12/25/16.  2PAC volunteers arrive at 8:00 A.M. on the 25th to clean the premises, and put things away.

For more information about the event, contact Emile Quast (e-quas@umn.edu) or contact the NIEBNA Board using the Contact Form.

For more information about 2PAC and how you can participate see the 2PAC web site here.

Wednesday Night: Loring Park Livability Forum

What $2 Million Buys: Phoenix on the River

Rarely available corner residence at Phoenix on the River. Enjoy unobstructed Mississippi River and spectacular downtown skyline views. Highly efficient and thoughtfully designed floor plan featuring two bedroom suites and third bedroom/office, large recessed balcony, three parking stalls and private storage. The Phoenix is a world class building with unmatched amenities and services in one of the most desirable neighborhoods along the river.

3 bed | 3 bath | 3 parking | 2,740 sf | $2,195,000

More details, photos…

New Feature: Great River Digest

Our city was born on the Mississippi River over 150 years ago. After decades of abuse & indifference, it's once again central to the future of Minneapolis. Stay on top of the the news, events and people impacting our Great River. This week's Great River Digest...

Public Invited to Review Plan to Repair Bridge Between Boom Island Park And Nicollet Island
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) will host an Open House for the Boom Island-Nicollet Island Bridge Repairs project on Thursday, Oct. 6, 6-7:30 pm at MPRB headquarters.

A River at Risk
The Mississippi is North America’s greatest river. But in Minnesota, home to its headwaters, sweeping changes in the landscape are putting water quality at risk.

Mighty Mississippi River faces mounting ecological threats
The greatest river in North America begins in Minnesota. But our pristine stretch of the Mississippi faces mounting environmental threats.

Northern Metal: The present and future
The Northern Metal recycling location at 2800 Pacific St. N. in Minneapolis has been in the news recently because of complaints, then legal action regarding pollution standards.

East Bank Trail offers river views in Northeast
If you’re looking for a new trail to refresh your bike path options before winter sets in, check out the new East Bank Trail in northeast Minneapolis.

Mississippi River: Wildlife making a comeback, but please don't swim
A million people in the Twin Cities drink water pumped from the mighty Mississippi River, and more than 50,000 Minnesota kids play in it every year.

Mississippi River requires agriculture's help to stay healthy
If Minnesotans want to leave a river future generations can enjoy and tap for drinking water, greater contributions are needed from individual consumers and, in particular, a powerful state industry — agriculture.

Report finds a new pollutant — tiny bits of plastics and fiber — building up in the Mississippi
Microscopic fibers and pieces of plastic are accumulating at the bottom of the Mississippi River in the metro area, posing a rising threat to fish and other wildlife and reflecting changes in urban life along its banks.

Next Week: MRP Backyard by the River
What’s in a revitalized Mississippi Riverfront for you? Access to the river via the new Paddle Share program? A cleaner river water body thanks to the population growth of clams? New concert venues with our dramatic downtown skyline? The extension of pedestrian and bike trails adjacent to the shoreline of the longest river in the world? These are but a few of the exciting changes happening at the Mississippi River that runs through the heart of Minneapolis.