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MILL CITY FARMERS MARKET
With over 100 local farmers, food makers and artists, MCFM strives to build a local, sustainable and organic food economy in a vibrant, educational marketplace.
Maximizing the visitor experience of Minneapolis for the economic benefit of our community, making Minneapolis the destination of choice among travelers.
Time: Noon - 1:00 pm (Registration begins at 11:30am)
Location: First Covenant Church - Fellowship Hall - 810 South 7th Street
You are cordially invited to join the East Downtown Council membership and constituents for the June Business Forum. The event will take place on Thursday, June 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at First Covenant Church, in the Fellowship Hall.
This month’s guest speaker is Tom Schmall, Director of Project Development at Mortenson Construction.
Schmall has spent 25 years at Mortenson. He has successfully delivered projects across multiple market segments throughout the U.S., focusing on the early stages of project planning and execution.
Schmall has extensive experience in commercial construction. He oversaw the construction of MacPhail Center for Music, and is currently managing the Orchestra Hall project. He is a member of Mortenson’s preconstruction advancement team and supports continued efforts to build strong customer relationships. Schmall is an Iowa native and graduate of Iowa State University.
Schmall’s presentation will provide an overview of Mortenson Construction, including the industries they serve, and the kinds of services they provide. He will also talk about the new Vikings stadium. In February, the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority announced that Mortenson Construction would oversee the construction of this new multipurpose facility.
Agenda
11:30am to Noon: Registration and Lunch Noon to 1:00pm: EDC Update followed by a presentation and conversation with Tom Schmall from Mortenson Construction
Please RSVP by sending an email to EDC Executive Coordinator Christie Rock Hantge, at info@edcmpls.org.
The 2013 Twin Cities River Rats shows are scheduled for 7pm most Thursday nights through August 29, and take place at 1758 West River Road N (between the Plymouth and Broadway bridges).
The Twin Cities Rivers Rats describe their show as an aquatic Broadway musical featuring multiple water ski acts choreographed to music and built around a theme.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) Planning Committee will hold a public hearing on an Athletic Field Plan for Elliot Park on Wednesday, June 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the MPRB Headquarters, 2117 West River Road North.
The Athletic Field Plan being recommended to the Board by a Non-Appointed Community Advisory Committee (CAC) features a synthetic soccer field for the park, located in downtown Minneapolis at 1000 14th Street East. Park safety, usability/functionality, and increasing park activity were the community priorities that guided the CAC’s overall recommendation.
This Athletic Field Plan is based on the input received from the community surrounding Elliot Park and includes two design options for constructing a synthetic turf soccer field. The plan identifies a community-preferred full size adult soccer field option in collaboration with North Central University (NCU) or a smaller youth 6 soccer field option. The MPRB has the necessary funding for the smaller size field. NCU will be required to fund the balance of the larger field. If NCU is unable to obtain the necessary funds, the MPRB will proceed with the smaller youth 6 size field. Both field options were developed and reviewed by the community with support by the Elliot Park Neighborhood Building, Land Use & Housing Committee.
During the meetings with the community, comments were wide-ranging from security/safety concerns in the park to the need of increasing positive use of the park. In part, the community supported the full-size soccer field because of the crucial role NCU plays in providing positive role models in the park and neighborhood. While there was concern expressed about the need to remove up to 35 trees on the west side of the park for the field, the community viewed the need to expand Elliot Park’s amenities and provide a premier athletic field in the neighborhood as more important than the preservation of trees on that particular portion of the park. The community is dedicated to replanting many of the lost trees, and to restore our depleting urban tree canopy.
The public is invited to attend the public hearing to review the plans and share their comments with the Planning Committee.
Once the Plan is approved by the Planning Committee, it will go before the full Board on July 10th for approval. Once fully approved, NCU will be required to raise their portion of the funds for the full size field and the MPRB will move into design detailing. The construction of the field will be determinant on the time needed for NCU to raise the funds.
For further information about this and future improvements, visit the project page on the MPRB website.
Renaissance Hotels is a hotel brand known around the world for encouraging travelers to “Live Life to Discover.” On Wednesday, June 19th, The Depot Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel kicks off a “Summer of Discovery” and encourages guests to get out and discover something new all season long with an exclusive RLife LIVE event featuring Craig Bell Studio’s, The Dang Ol’ Tri’ole and Lift Bridge Brewery in the lobby, Stone Arch Bar and Patio. The event will take place simultaneously with 155 Renaissance Hotels around the world, celebrating the lifestyle hotel brand’s second annual “Global Day of Discovery.”
There will be a complimentary wine and cheese reception during the art gallery from 3pm until 4pm. Complimentary beer tasting between 4pm and 7pm. There will be beverage and food specials throughout the evening including Chef’s famous Smoked Brisket for purchase.
Craig Bell has developed over the years a unique form of artistic expression, often depicting nocturnal images of the urban landscape. The Lift Bridge is the newest beer in Minnesota crafting quality brews in small batches to help you slow down and enjoy life. The Dang Ol’ Tri’ole is an eight member bluegrass loving “moonshine drinkin” herd of musicians
Each Renaissance Hotel will participate in the “Global Day of Discovery,” inspiring more than 30,000 hotel guests to leave their hotel rooms and discover unforgettable moments through unexpected experiences created at the hotels including exclusive RLife LIVE events on site or unique offsite discoveries created by hotel NAVIGATORS.
The initiative is part of Renaissance Hotels “Summer of Discovery,” created to provoke today's lifestyle-oriented business traveler to explore a hotel or destination’s hidden gems. The seasonal program features a calendar of exciting experiences taking place at Renaissance Hotels throughout the world through September.
Meeting are broadcasted live on the City of Minneapolis Government Meeting Channel 79, or online at http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/tv/79. Those interested in viewing the MPRB meeting are encouraged to attend at MPRB headquarters, located at 2117 West River Road, Minneapolis, MN 55411, or view during the 10:30 p.m. Monday (12/3) rebroadcast on Channel 79.
What to bring: Blanket or chair, sunblock and bugspray, picnic basket.
Reminders: Watch our facebook or twitter page for weather cancellations of the evening festivities. Post photos on our facebook page of you enjoying the concerts. Support the artists by picking up a CD or other merchandise.
Future dates:
June 25 July 2 July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30 August 6 August 13 August 20 August 27
Music & Movies in The Parks is produced by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. Enjoy more than 250 FREE concerts and movies in Minneapolis parks this summer!
“Northern Slave, Black Dakota“ author, historian and retired trial lawyer Walt Bachman will tell how the U.S. Army's policies and practices brought slavery to Minnesota and shaped Godfrey's extraordinary life story. Godfrey grew up in bondage serving Minnesota's fur-trade elite, and, as a fugitive from Minnesota slavery, was conscripted to join warriors in the U.S. Dakota War of 1862.
Presented in collaboration with Pond Dakota Heritage Society.
What to bring: Blanket or chair, sunblock and bugspray, picnic basket.
Reminders: Watch our facebook or twitter page for weather cancellations of the evening festivities. Post photos on our facebook page of you enjoying the concerts. Support the artists by picking up a CD or other merchandise.
Music & Movies in The Parks is produced by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. Enjoy more than 250 FREE concerts and movies in Minneapolis parks this summer!
Future dates:
June 24 July 1 July 3 July 8 July 15 July 22 July 29 August 5 August 12 August 19 August 26
Location: Old Spaghetti Factory, 233 Park Avenue (and Washington Avenue South)
Till Death Do Us Part
Ladies and gentlemen, it's time to dig those fancy frocks and snazzy suits out of the back of your closets and head out to the little white chapel as The Murder Mystery Company presents, Till Death Do Us Part. You'll play detective in this engaging mystery. Will the bride and groom live happily ever after? Or will this wedding end in disaster? Bring your friends, family and don't forget your detective skills to help solve the case!
Also, Cynthia Froid invites you to stop in her office to check out the work of artist Mike Welton thru the end of June. Per Cynthia, his paintings of beloved Minneapolis landmarks are top quality!
Chefs for Change: A Chef's Table Culinary Experience
Chefs for Change is a cooking demonstration and an elegant dinner party with a purpose. It is hosted by a top executive chef from the Twin Cites Metro area. Over the past several years, chefs from restaurants including The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Porter and Frye and Capital Grille have hosted Chefs for Change events on one or more occasion.
For both Sandy and Vantella, People Serving People’s Culinary Arts Training Program provided support in a seemingly hopeless situation.
PSP’s Culinary Arts program is a full-spectrum training offered four times per year to PSP guests and other low-income adults throughout the metro area. Free of charge to accepted applicants, for 13 weeks students are taught skills and techniques for professional cooking, both in the classroom and with hands-on experience in PSP’s Food Service. Since the program’s inception in 2005 more than 154 students have graduated and are now employed in commercial kitchens at St. Anne’s, New Way House, the University of Minnesota, Hilton Hotels, Augsburg College and local restaurants.
Sandy worked at a lumber company for 39 years in a variety of administrative roles. When she was laid off at age 64, she was not ready to retire but felt overwhelmed by the idea of searching for a new job after spending most of her career with one company.
“When I was laid off I was distraught,” Sandy said. “I basically sat at home and cried for a whole month. Then I went to the workforce center and tried to find work at several places but had no luck.”
One day Sandy’s workforce center counselor asked her to think outside of the box and consider what else she might like to do. She said her immediate response was to cook. Sandy’s counselor was familiar with PSP’s Culinary Arts Training Program and referred her to PSP’s Employment Specialist Amy Honer.
“I have always toyed with the idea of culinary school, but it was too expensive. When I worked at the lumber company I always baked items and brought them in to share with co-workers. I stopped for about a month and one of the guys I worked with asked if my oven was broke at home,” Sandy said. “Food brings people together. I have made more friends through sharing food than anything else because it is a common ground for everybody.”
Sandy graduated from PSP’s Culinary Arts Training Program in April and was offered an internship in the shelter’s Food Service. PSP Food Service Manager Mike Seiler selects an intern from each graduating class for the internship to help them gain more training and work experience.
Vantella is a mother of three and stays in PSP’s Supportive Housing. Vantella was unemployed for two years before she applied for PSP’s Culinary Arts Training Program. She graduated from the program and passed her Safe Serv test. Recently she secured a permanent position with a catering company in downtown Minneapolis.
“When I was unemployed, I did any temp work I could get. I needed to take care of myself and my three children. I did not want to depend on Hennepin County for the rest of my life,” Vantella said.
Vantella volunteered in PSP’s kitchen to keep busy during her job search and give back to the shelter. Mike Seiler, the Food Service Manager, was impressed by her cooking skills and work ethic and encouraged her to apply to the culinary program.
“I love cooking things like chicken alfredo, greens, baked macaroni and cheese,” Vantella said. “I make an excellent barbecue sauce. I’ve had a lot of jobs in my life but cooking is the best. I still remember staying up all night to help my grandmother cook meals for our family during the holidays.”
Working with PSP Food Service Manager Mike Seiler revived some of that childhood excitement. “PSP’s program is a great program. Mike teaches you how to prep food, convert recipes, adequate serving amounts, and cut food Julienne style. Mike really teaches you a lot of things.”
Sandra agrees: “Mike doesn’t make you feel stupid. He is just very instructive and patient."
Location: Meet at corner of Main Street and East Hennepin
East Hennepin: An Historic Walking Tour
Every Sunday, June through September
The bustling commercial district surrounding East Hennepin Avenue has hosted many names throughout the years, but everyone knows its unforgettable landmarks . . . Surdyk’s, Nye’s, Kramarczuk’s, historic Main Street and Lourdes Church. Located across the Hennepin Bridge from Downtown, this neighborhood was originally platted in 1849 as the Town of St. Anthony Falls and later merged with the city of Minneapolis in 1872. Its proximity to the Mississippi River, Downtown, the University and Northeast and Southeast Minneapolis have made it an influential hub for transit, industry and commerce.
The last decade has brought dramatic change, and the area around East Hennepin is now considered one of the trendiest and most exciting places in Minneapolis to eat, shop and live. Join us for a “behind-the-scenes” history of the busy streets, unique businesses and colorful people that have shaped this popular walking neighborhood. Hear amazing stories told from the perspective of its residents, shopkeepers and local historians.
Come away with perspective on what life here might have actually felt like throughout the neighborhood’s most defining eras. The tour is a circle ending at the Ard Godfrey House nearby. Cost: $10. Guides will be Michael Rainville, Scott Parkin and/or Leslie Palmer-Ross.
Papa John Kolstad released the album Mill City Blues in 1971. It is now being reissued, and will be available on CD for the first time--and nothing beats The Sorry Muthas for Fathers Day!
Those familiar with the Folk and Blues scene of the West Bank in the 1960s and 70s, consider Mill City Blues a classic: First released in 1971, the record features Papa John Kolstad, Soupy Milton, Cal Hand, Judy Larson and Bill Hinkley. The song, Mill City Blues, gained lots of exposure from performances and airplay: It actually lead to a resurgence of the long forgotten name for Minneapolis as “The Mill City”.
The West Bank community, including Papa John Kolstad and the Sorry Muthas, also inspired the now legendary A Prairie Home Companion. The program's creator and host, Garrison Keillor, brought many of them together for a reunion show in 2008. Keillor remembers:
“From the Sorry Muthas came Cal Hand, the dobro and steel master who sparked a big country-western craze, and Papa John Kolstad, who has seemed approximately 24 years old for the past 40 years.”
The Sorry Muthas reunited in 2009 to record with Rosalie Sorrels on the Grammy nominated album Strangers In Another Country, a tribute to their friend U. Utah Phillips.
For the re-release at the Cedar Cultural Center, you can expect the same old-timey, thumping, country blues from back in the day: Papa John Kolstad will be performing with some of the original Sorry Muthas (Judy Larson, Cal Hand) along with Bob Stelnicki (washtub bass), Rod Bellville (mandolin), Gary Schulte (violin) and Bill Smith (harmonica). Joining these West Bank legends will be Amanda Hand, Cadillac Kolstad, Katey Bellville and Marilynne Hand. Plus, giving concertgoers an intimate look back and into the spirited West Bank scene,a collection of photographs - many never shown in public – by photographer Jerry Mathiason will be on display and for sale.
Location: Father Hennepin Bluffs Park (intersection of SE Main and SE 6th Avenue, on the East Bank of the Stone Arch Bridge).
Looking for a way to take your sun salutations outside so you can truly salute the sun? The Downtown Minneapolis CorePower Yoga invites you to join them each Sunday for CorePower Yoga’s, “Yoga in the Park.” CorePower encourages yoga practioners to open their minds and join their breath and movements to the sound of music and nature all around us. All levels of yoga students are welcome and their hope is that you take this opportunity to not only practice yoga, but to find even deeper connections within your community!
These free classes will be held every Sunday starting June 2nd and running through August 25th. All classes are 10:00am – 11:00am at Father Hennepin Bluffs Park. Please call CorePower Yoga Downtown Minneapolis at 612-375-9642 with questions.
Items of note: - Attendees should arrive 15-30 minutes prior to class starting for sign in purposes. - Students are asked to bring their own mat, towel, water and SUNSCREEN! There is limited shade at the park. - Classes will be lead by certified yoga instructors from downtown Minneapolis’ CorePower Yoga.
Walk the Minneapolis riverfront and learn about its dramatic past and bright future. Participants will visit the historic district at St. Anthony Falls, which was once the milling center of the world and is now a growing cultural, recreational and residential neighborhood. A guide from Mill City Museum will lead visitors onto the Stone Arch Bridge for a spectacular view of the falls, the historic buildings surrounding it and downtown Minneapolis and tell stories of the people who have worked and lived in the area and how it has changed over the years. The tour begins and ends at Mill City Museum where participants can visit the museum gallery (included in the price of the tour) and enjoy refreshments at the Mill City Museum Café.
Fee: $14 adults, $12 seniors and college students, $10 children 6-17 and MHS members. Includes museum admission.
Reservations: required, call 612-341-7555 or register online.
Steve Marking performs popular songs and his own compositions against a backdrop of photos and videos of river scenes. You'll come away with a new appreciation for the many lives of the greatest of rivers.
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