Mississippi Messages Calendar - March 2013

Calendar of Events Schedule your stenciling outing today! Mid-April through mid-October, 2013 City of Saint Paul If you're looking for a great service outing that is educational, active, outdoors and provides a significant community benefit, consider storm drain stenciling. It's just one and a half to three hours in length, and can be set at a time and St. Paul location convenient for your group. Reservations are now being taken for April through October 2013. Read more » Mississippi River Challenge Kickoff Party Thursday, March 28 — 5:00-8:00 p.m. Amsterdam Bar and Hall, 6th and Wabasha, Downtown Saint Paul Get the paddle party started! Come and enjoy food, drinks and festivities as we kick-off the paddling season, and start to celebrate the 10th Annual Mississippi River Challenge! For more information, please visit MississippiRiverChallenge.org, or subscribe to our Facebook and Twitter feeds! Read more » Native Plants, Raingardens and Lawn Care for Water Quality Saturday, April 20 — 6:30-8:30 p.m. South Creek, Lakeville Whether you're interested in a smaller native planting or want to transform your whole yard into a force for clean water this year, this FMR workshop can get you started. Taught by FMR's former River Stewardship Coordinator Karen Solas, the presentation receives rave reviews from participants, who also appreciate the high-quality and concise take-home materials. Learn more, and register directly from the event page! Read more » Mississippi River Challenge Meet-ups Last Tuesday of the month Various locations This year, Mississippi River Challenge paddlers, volunteers and enthusiasts are all encouraged to come to our series of meet-ups and social hours. Held the last Tuesday of every month at various Twin Cities locations, meetups will feature door prizes, Q and A with staff, and special registration promotions. Whether you're there to register with one of our special promotions, learn more about the Mississippi River Challenge, or just to meet and greet with others involved in this world-class paddling event, each meet-up will be a great chance to get involved in the Mississippi River Challenge community! For more information, please visit MississippiRiverChallenge.org, or subscribe to our Facebook and Twitter feeds!! Read more » Hastings Area Birding Festival Saturday, April 20 — 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Carpenter Nature Center, Hastings Have you always wanted to learn more about the birds that live in your backyard? Whether you're an experienced birder or can't tell a robin from a chickadee, this is the perfect opportunity. With bird banding demonstrations, field trips to local birding hot spots for experts or beginners, a youth birding competition, and "Raptors 101", people of all ages and birding levels will find much to enjoy. Learn more, and download the registration forms directly from the event page. Read more » Raingarden Shrub Planting Saturday, April 27 — 9:30 a.m.-noon Crosby Farm Regional Park, St. Paul Join the award-winning restoration of Crosby Regional Park, nestled at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers in St. Paul. Volunteers are needed to help plant native shrubs in a raingarden near the newly renovated main parking area. (Capacity is limited and party size limited to five.) Preregistration is required. Learn more on the event page, or sign up now with Lindsay at lhefferan@fmr.org or 651-222-2193 x24. Read more » Garlic Mustard Removal and Pledge to Pull Training at Pine Bend Thursday, May 2 — 6:00-8:00 p.m. Pine Bend Scientific and Natural Area, Inver Grove Heights In addition to stunning river valley views Pine Bend Scientific and Natural Area provides vital habitat for many birds who rely on the Mississippi River flyway. Come join this award-winning regional restoration project. You can contribute for two hours, or sign up to Pledge to Pull to return to this protected area to complete additional restoration work on your own or with friends or family. Learn more on the event page, or sign up now with Lindsay at lhefferan@fmr.org or 651-222-2193 x24. Read more » For current event listings and more information on the events listed above, please visit our events calendar page at www.fmr.org/participate/events. Calendar of Events Schedule your stenciling outing today! Mississippi River Challenge Kickoff Party Native Plants, Raingardens and Lawn Care for Water Quality Mississippi River Challenge Meet-ups Hastings Area Birding Festival Raingarden Shrub Planting Garlic Mustard Removal and Pledge to Pull Training at Pine Bend

RiverFIRST News January 31, 2013

Creating visionary parks on the Mississippi Riverfront. 31.JAN.13 RiverFirst News Design Team completes two-day, three-event tour Earlier this month, the RiverFirst Design Team delivered a progress presentation to three major audiences: Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board Commissioners, the RiverFirst Steering Committee, and the community.   The Design Team’s work is emphasizing an adaptable approach to park and related development that will build on opportunities over time. Trail Loops, for example, are evolving from clip-on "knot bridges” originally proposed for as low-investment/high-impact connections across the Mississippi. Instead, schematic design is focusing on enhancements to the newly renovated Plymouth Avenue Bridge. Upstream, a design for linking future west bank sidewalks and trails to the recently opened Lowry Avenue Bridge has emerged in the shape of a spiraling bike and pedestrian “connector.” The City of Minneapolis and Hennepin County – owners of the Plymouth and Lowry Avenue bridges, respectively – are facilitating exploration of these projects through collaboration with the Design Team and the Minneapolis Park Board. Many more details about other new riverfront trail loops can be viewed in the presentation.     > View & Comment on the Presentation Hall’s not well with Scherer Park – Yet The highlight of the Design Team’s presentation was Scherer Park. Minneapolis Park Board Commissioners, Steering Committee members and the public enthusiastically support the restoration of Hall’s Island. RiverFirst stakeholders at all levels are recognizing and vouching for its value both as a “singular” urban river attraction, and the first of several urgently needed habitat patches that will transform the Upper Riverfront from “ditch” to destination – for animals, plants and people. Permitting for Hall’s Island restoration is by no means certain. We are grateful for the support of agency and community partners, especially the National Park Service, as we work to bring Hall’s Island – and the Upper Riverfront – back to life.      Express Your Support       > Contacts & Links      Fact Sheets       > Scherer Park-Hall’s Island       > Hall’s Island Permitting       > R1 Eco Significance   Follow the blue-striped road Also presented by the Design Team was a proposed “kit of parts” for distinctive, R1-branded wayfinding and signage. The dynamic graphic system incorporates pavement marking, large-scale broadsides, and other visual “bread crumbs” with a mobile technology component to guide travelers to and along the riverfront. R1 Initiative Updates Tapping Water Works Water Works is rapidly gaining momentum, as the Minneapolis Parks Foundation spearheads a fundraising effort to create a forward-looking park concept for the proposed Central Riverfront destination. Look for an RFP this spring, when fundraising for Pre-development Phase II is complete. This work will be done in parallel with the Park Board’s planning in the Central Riverfront. Is Upper Harbor terminal? Fret not, the proposed Northside Wetlands Park is still on our radar. Jeremy Hanson Willis of Minneapolis CPED reported to the Steering Committee that the City is currently looking at multi-use scenarios (the updated Above the Falls plan makes redesigning the Terminal more flexible) and undertaking a land-use appraisal. Finance Strategy Quiz Quick, what three themes are emerging from Donjek’s research?      > Read this post to find out RiverFirst Initiative Managing Partners

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Mississippi Messages - January 2013

FMR Updates Thank you! We exceeded our match! Wow! The river is gurgling with gratitude, and all of us at FMR are as well. A huge thank you to all of you who became members or increased your membership contribution, gave during Give to the Max Day, made a special year end donation, or gave gift memberships in December. You not only helped us meet the $25,000 challenge, you nearly doubled it! Your generous support means we are starting off 2013, our 20th anniversary year, with more resources to do this work. Stay tuned for ways you can celebrate 20 years of accomplishments with FMR, and ways you can help make this the most successful year to date. Thank you again! Welcome Lindsay and Adam Please welcome two new staff members to the FMR Stewardship Team! Lindsay Hefferan, a former FMR intern, has been hired as the Volunteer and Event Registrar and Adam Flett, a current FMR staff member, is taking over the role of Stewardship Event Coordinator. Read more » Mississippi River Challenge ramps up for 10th run Save the date! Save the River! The 10th Annual Mississippi River Challenge is on July 27-28, 2013. Highlights for this year include team registration, special 10th anniversary items and recognition, the return of the kick-off party, and a new day one launch point. Read more » MN DNR recommends Asian carp barrier at Lock and Dam #1 A recent study commissioned by the Minnesota DNR recommends constructing a high-tech acoustic and bubble barrier at Lock and Dam #1 to deter the passage of Asian carp but the estimated cost is very high. Is this the smartest way to fight the spread of Asian carp? Read more » Above the Falls Master Plan released for public comment The draft updated Above the Falls Master Plan has been released for public comment. The plan moves the vision closer to what Friends of the Mississippi River and neighborhood stewards think those plans need to say. The latest land use plan was released at a December Minneapolis Riverfront Forum; the 45-day public comment on that plan continues through January 24th. Read more » Survey says: 2012 a banner year for FMR volunteers In 2012, over 2,750 volunteers pitched in at 75+ hands-on FMR events. And whether collecting seeds, hauling boats, or picking up litter, they truly enjoyed themselves while making a difference. Nearly half (49%) of volunteers, responded to our 2012 survey. Overall, responses were very positive. Most volunteers deeply appreciated being a part of and being able to see real, beneficial changes in their local landscape, not to mention the company of like-minded people. Many also applied what they learned to their own home, garden, school or community — embarking on invasive species removals and other projects for the river’s health. Read more about the survey here, or see the volunteers in action, as well as many of the important and beautiful places they help protect, in our flickr album of our favorite event pictures of 2012. Read more » Reserve your group service outing! Looking for an educational, active, outdoor service outing that provides a significant community benefit in a short amount of time? Consider a storm drain stenciling outing with FMR for your school, corporate, church or community group. It's a fun, easy team-building activity that helps the Mississippi River and its watershed, and outings can be scheduled according to your group's needs and can take place most anywhere within St. Paul. Reservations are now being taken for April through October. Read more » Vermillion Linear Park Natural Resource Management Plan calls for restoration Vermillion Linear Park is a long, narrow park that follows the path of the Vermillion River for about 3,800 feet on the upstream side of the Highway 61 Bridge in Hastings. This site has seen its share of problems over the years, but if the recommendations of this new management plan are implemented, there is hope of improving water quality of the stream, habitat value of the land, and overall aesthetics of the site for the people of the region. Read more » Restoration roundup Indian burial mounds, rare plant species, river bluff overlooks, sand-gravel prairie remnants, majestic oaks revealed...these are some of the features of the new project sites FMR began working on in 2012. Read more » Mississippi River News Minnesotans pay the price for crop fertilizer at faucet A recent Star Tribune article highlights the impacts of contaminated drinking water, most likely due to excessive nitrogen fertilizer applications on agricultural lands. “Like one out of three wells in Dakota County, hers is so contaminated with nitrates she won't let anyone drink from it -- especially her 8-year-old granddaughter.” Read more » In harnessing land, Iowa farmer preserves it Another recent Star Tribune article highlights a unique, sustainable, and profitable farm operation in Iowa. “Agricultural researchers have now put a decade's worth of numbers to Thompson's style of farming... They found that it's just as profitable and just as productive, if not more so, than relying on chemicals and genetic technology. Plus, over time, it's 200 times less toxic to water.” Read more » Murky Waters: Environmental Working Group’s analysis of Iowa Water Quality has some lessons for Minnesota EWG recently released analysis of Iowa stream monitoring data shows that from 2008 to 2011, water quality was rated “poor” or “very poor” at 60 percent of the 98 stream segments monitored by the Iowa Water Quality Index. “Murky Waters” concludes that four decades after the Clean Water Act became law, continuing degradation of the state’s waters has become a case study on the consequences of the most serious flaw in this otherwise effective federal law: It does little or nothing to address agricultural pollution. Unfortunately, the report notes, Iowa’s water quality regulation almost exclusively addresses municipal and industrial discharges. As in Minnesota, Iowa agricultural runoff remains largely unregulated. Read more » What’s your favorite view on the Mississippi River? The National Park Service wants YOU to share your favorite view on the Mississippi River! Please respond by February 22, 2013, in order to have your input included. Read more » Calendar of Events Fish Creek’s Minnesotan Get Together Friday, February 22 - 5:30-9:00 pm Maplewood Community Center FMR has been working with the City of Maplewood over the past several years to support their efforts to protect and restore the Fish Creek Natural Area on the bluffs of the Mississippi River. We invite anyone interested in river conservation to join us for an evening of preservation, good food, and great times as we gather to preserve the Fish Creek Natural Area and celebrate all that is Minnesotan. Enjoy naturalist, outdoor author and Minnesota native, Chris Niskanen as he talks about his new book, “The Minnesota Book of Skills,” in which he outlines the true skills all Minnesotans should have! Fill up on a delicious pasta dinner, bid on some great items in our silent auction, and take part in a hands-on Minnesota challenges held throughout the night. All event proceeds will benefit the preservation of Fish Creek Natural Area. Read more » Troubled Waters Screening: REI Bloomington Wednesday, February 27 - 6:00 pm REI Bloomington REI Bloomington will host a screening of “Troubled Waters: A Mississippi River Story” on Wednesday, February 27, 2013. Attendees are invited to arrive at 6:00 p.m. and the program will begin at 6:30 p.m. Following the screening, attendees will participate in an audience discussion a panel of river experts, including the film’s director, experts from the University of Minnesota, and FMR Watershed Program Director Trevor Russell. Read more » The State of the River Report Presentations: Winter 2013 Various dates through May 2013 Various locations As Mississippi Messages readers know, FMR and our partner The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) recently released the State of the River Report. This groundbreaking report highlights the status and trends of 13 critical indicators of water quality and ecological health in the metro Mississippi River. If you’ve missed out on recent presentations, it’s not too late! We are continuing to host State of the River Report events in partnership with local organizations, resource managers, and educational institutions. For information all our upcoming State of the River Report events, please visit our upcoming events page. Read more » Phenology The life of the river: pee stains or what are you trying to tell me? Everyone’s heard the advice, “don’t eat yellow snow.” Less well-known is the fact that these little marks in the snow actually serve the important role of facilitating communication among animals in the wild. While scent marking occurs throughout the year, winter is probably the best time to recognize and appreciate their visual and odoriferous qualities. Just another reason to wander out and enjoy Mississippi River in winter. Read more » Whose View? From Where? January 2013 Each month in this section, we feature a photo from somewhere along the river corridor in the Twin Cities that is in some way significant, important, or just plain scenic. Individuals may then e-mail us and identify the view and explain why they believe it is significant to the community or important to them personally. Read more » December 2012 Answer Thanks to Eric Otterness, avid Whose View reader and guesser, for last month’s entry. And despite a location right under many of our noses, we didn't get it. Read more » Supporting FMR Raising the volume of the river's voice In 2013 we are celebrating FMR's 20th anniversary, and this year we'd like to make the voice of the river a lot louder. Here's how YOU can help! Read more » Quote of the Month “On the map the delta was dissected by the river, but in fact the river was nowhere and everywhere, for he could not decide which of a hundred green lagoons offered the most pleasant and least speedy path to the Gulf. So he traveled them all, and so did we. He divided and rejoined, he twisted and turned, he meandered in awesome jungles, he all but ran in circles, he dallied with lovely groves, he got lost and was glad of it, and so were we. For the last word in procrastination, go travel with a river reluctant to lose his freedom to the sea.”         - Aldo Leopold, “The Green Lagoons,” A Sand County Almanac   FMR Updates Thank you! We exceeded our match! Welcome Lindsay and Adam Mississippi River Challenge ramps up for 10th run MN DNR recommends Asian carp barrier at Lock and Dam #1 Above the Falls Master Plan released for public comment Survey says: 2012 a banner year for FMR volunteers Reserve your group service outing! Vermillion Linear Park Natural Resource Management Plan calls for restoration Restoration roundup Mississippi River News Minnesotans pay the price for crop fertilizer at faucet In harnessing land, Iowa farmer preserves it Murky Waters: Environmental Working Group’s analysis of Iowa Water Quality has some lessons for Minnesota What’s your favorite view on the Mississippi River? Calendar of Events Fish Creek’s Minnesotan Get Together Troubled Waters Screening: REI Bloomington The State of the River Report Presentations: Winter 2013 Phenology The life of the river: pee stains or what are you trying to tell me? Whose View? From Where? January 2013 December 2012 Answer Supporting FMR Raising the volume of the river's voice Mississippi Messages is a twice-monthly e-mail update distributed by Friends of the Mississippi River to help our members and subscribers stay informed on issues, FMR events, and opportunities related to the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities area. All subscribers' names and e-mail addresses are kept confidential. Original contents copyright 2013, Friends of the Mississippi River http://www.fmr.org

Mississippi Messages - December 2012

FMR Updates We're almost there: Help us earn the full match! As you may have heard, several generous FMR members have put up a $25,000 challenge to match YOUR gifts that we need to meet by December 31st! The good news — thanks to many of you already contributing over $18,000, we're almost there!! Even better — we know that a lot of you are still thinking about making a year-end gift to FMR. Please help us earn the full amount of the match by making a donation today. Thank you, on behalf of the river and all of us at FMR! Want to know what your gift will do? Read on. Read more » The State of the River Report: More events to come! This fall, FMR and The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area unit of the National Park Service released the State of the River Report to great acclaim, and the momentum has just kept going. If you missed the launch of this groundbreaking report at the Science Museum of Minnesota, we hope you can join us at an upcoming presentation: January 24th in St. Paul, or February 26th in Brooklyn Park. Or, contact us to schedule a presentation for your group of 20 or more! Read more » Asian carp roundup: good news, bad news The effort to stop the spread of Asian carp continues to move forward in the face of both good and bad news. Catch up on the latest happenings, from the river bottoms to the U.S. Capitol. Read more » The Above the Falls survey: Help shape the future of the Minneapolis riverfront After more than a year of research and a series of community input meetings, the City of Minneapolis and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board presented the draft Above the Falls Plan Update to approximately 80 citizens this month. While much of the award-winning vision of the original plan has been maintained, a number of future land-use changes are proposed along with a few adjustments to the Above the Falls Regional Park boundary, which extends along the riverfront from Plymouth Avenue north to the Camden Bridge in north and northeast Minneapolis. The plan and presentation materials are available on both the city’s and park board’s websites. We encourage FMR friends and members to give them a look and submit your comments to the city and park board via the Above the Falls online survey by January 24th. Read more » Farewell Karen Solas, FMR Stewardship Events Coordinator This holiday season, FMR bids a sad farewell to Karen Solas, our Stewardship Events Coordinator. During the past six years, Karen has been a warm and welcoming face for thousands of volunteers at river and watershed cleanups, restoration events, interpretive tours and educational workshops. Karen will be moving on to work as the Green Corps Coordinator for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. FMR staff and volunteers alike wish her the best of luck with her new job and look forward to many years of continued friendship. Read more » Thank you and farewell intern Gabby Ghreichi! This fall, Gabby served as FMR’s Outreach & Events intern, helping out in the office as well as at numerous volunteer events in the Mississippi River corridor. She posted numerous public events on online calendars, managed event photos, sorted seed and assisted with other restoration tasks and conducted our annual Volunteer Survey. In addition, she assisted with registration and then worked alongside volunteers at almost all of our fall stewardship events — getting plenty of practice hauling buckthorn, collecting prairie seed and even directing parking! Thank you, Gabby, for all of your hard work, enthusiasm and passion for this field. We’ve enjoyed working with you and have tremendous faith that you will serve the world well! Social media and marketing intern sought The Mississippi River Challenge is reaching its 10th anniversary in 2013, and we are looking for a Social Media and Marketing Intern to help us through innovative marketing tools and creative designs. Candidates with experience (professional or educational) in sales, advertising, marketing, fundraising, graphic design and non-profit events will be considered. Read more » Mississippi River News Mississippi River level still expected to drop As reported by the Associated Press, water levels on the drought-plagued Mississippi River are expected to keep dropping over the next several weeks, according to a new forecast Wednesday that comes amid worries that barge traffic soon could be squeezed along a key stretch of the vital shipping corridor. Read more » Shipping season closes Lock and Dam No. 2 at Hastings closed on the Mississippi River on Monday, December 3rd, ending commercial navigation for the year on the Upper Mississippi. As reported by the Associated Press, the closures ended barge traffic between Minneapolis and Guttenberg, Iowa. Winter repairs are taking place on Lock and Dam No. 6, near Trempealeau, Wis., and are scheduled to be finished by March 11. (The 2012 season began March 17th.) Resource of the Month Winter activities guide Winter offers a whole new way to play, and Minnesota State Parks and Trails have adventures to keep you and your family enjoying the season all winter long. Many parks have rental gear available, and there are lots of kid-friendly activities, from sledding and candlelight events to winter geocaching. Hit the trails and try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling. Wildlife watching is great in the winter, and even a simple hike is a whole different experience on the snow. Read more » Phenology 'O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree...' A major snowstorm reveals the wonders of tree form. Read more » Whose View? From Where? December 2012 Each month in this section, we feature a photo from somewhere along the river corridor in the Twin Cities that is in some way significant, important, or just plain scenic. Individuals may then e-mail us and identify the view and explain why they believe it is significant to the community or important to them personally. Read more » November 2012 Answer First, let's get the location set — I'm happy for the folks who take the "from where" part of this monthly segment seriously, it can really matter! Read more » Supporting FMR Give a gift membership! Share the good feeling you get knowing you’re helping to protect an amazing local treasure, and foster greater awareness of the beauty and majesty of our stretch of the Mississippi River! Gift memberships are $25, and the recipient gets a small, ecologically friendly packet of information about FMR and ways they can get involved as well as a handy FMR magnet and all the benefits of regular FMR membership. Give a gift membership today and add one more to the community voice for the river; simply visit our donation page and select “Gift Membership” under donation type! That's it! Cheers!' Quote of the Month “I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says 'Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.'”         - Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland   FMR Updates We're almost there: Help us earn the full match! The State of the River Report: More events to come! Asian carp roundup: good news, bad news The Above the Falls survey: Help shape the future of the Minneapolis riverfront Farewell Karen Solas, FMR Stewardship Events Coordinator Thank you and farewell intern Gabby Ghreichi! Social media and marketing intern sought Mississippi River News Mississippi River level still expected to drop Shipping season closes Resource of the Month Winter activities guide Phenology 'O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree...' Whose View? From Where? December 2012 November 2012 Answer Supporting FMR Give a gift membership! Mississippi Messages is a twice-monthly e-mail update distributed by Friends of the Mississippi River to help our members and subscribers stay informed on issues, FMR events, and opportunities related to the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities area. All subscribers' names and e-mail addresses are kept confidential. Original contents copyright 2012, Friends of the Mississippi River http://www.fmr.org

Tasty Traditions Contest from the Mississippi River Parkway Commission

The Mississippi River Parkway Commission has a contest to identify the best food traditions along the mighty Mississippi River. Share a review of a restaurant along the Mississippi River/Great River Road National Scenic Byway, a favorite recipe or a photo of food beloved along the river, or tell them about your own tasty traditions along the Great River Road and you could take home $250!

More information and to entry form.

The entry period will end on 11:59:59 am on January 11, 2013, with a grand-prize drawing being held on or before January 31, 2013.

Minneapolis Park and Rec Board Acquires Key Riverfront Property

From a November 2 Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board e-newsletter:

On October 30, 2012, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) purchased 1720 Marshall Street NE, 1.74 acres and over 350 feet of Mississippi riverfront in northeast Minneapolis. The purchase furthers the vision of creating a continuous linear park along both sides of the Mississippi River through Minneapolis. The property lies within the Above the Falls Regional Park and is part of the visionary park proposal for Minneapolis’ upper riverfront called RiverFirst, adopted by the Park Board and City of Minneapolis in 2012.

“This acquisition will help us serve Northeast Minneapolis and the region, and is an opportunity to help ensure that future generations have the opportunity to enjoy the river,” said Liz Wielinski, Park District 1 Commissioner.

RiverFirst--A Design Proposal and Implementation Framework for the Minneapolis Upper Riverfront, was adopted by the Park Board in March, 2012, following almost two years of input, collaboration and support from the public, business community and local, regional and state agencies. RiverFirst encompasses the 5.5 miles of Mississippi River from the Stone Arch Bridge to the northern City limits, and builds upon the Above the Falls Master Plan to develop the land along the Mississippi River.

“Revitalizing the Mississippi Riverfront is a top priority for our Board, and this acquisition is an important part of linking together the parks, trails and green spaces,” said John Erwin, president of the MPRB Board of Commissioners. “In addition, this building gives us needed near-term shelter for our equipment, and allows us to close an antiquated facility to save resources.”

This leadership in preserving land along the city’s lakes, rivers and streams has earned the MPRB national recognition for its exceptional parks and trails. By the early 1900s visionary Park Board leaders had acquired most of the east and west riverfront of the river stretching from St. Paul to St. Anthony Falls for public parkland. Since 1993 the MPRB has led the charge to expand parkland to provide a connection from the downtown area north of the Falls.

“The Park Board wishes to extend its deep appreciation and thanks to two key funders who helped make this acquisition possible,” said Liz Wielinski. “The support of the Metropolitan Council and Mississippi Watershed Management Organization has been invaluable for critical riverfront purchases.”

The Metropolitan Council, through its Park Acquisition Opportunity Fund provided nearly $609,000. A complementary grant from the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization of more than $202,000 was combined with the Metropolitan Council grant to cover the cost of acquiring the land portion of the site. Together, these grants were vital in matching MPRB capital funds earmarked for this acquisition.

The industrial building on the property will be used for MPRB operations and equipment storage in the short term, and eventually a park will be developed on the property as part of a larger green corridor within Above the Falls Regional Park.
 
Questions from public:
Renay Leone, Real Estate Coordinator
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
612-230-6477
rleone@minneapolisparks.org

Minneapolis RiverCurrent 11-1-12

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

Theatre Coup d'Etat Presents

Romeo & Juliet

November 8 – 17

Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Avenue South

Theatre Coup d’Etat invites you to experience the timeless tale of William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, this time told with a twist. Romeo & Juliet has been heralded as “one of the greatest love stories ever told.” We have read it in our high school English classes, watched it unfold on countless stages and have seen it reshaped and splashed on to movie screens across the world. It is a timeless piece of work with a timeless message; that true love is a simple, yet pure and powerful part of life and no single individual should be persecuted in their effort to pursue it. Due to the upcoming vote on the marriage amendment, and in an effort to uphold their mission “to provoke an emotional and analytical response in [their] audiences by showing the depth of the human condition through both classical and contemporary works,” and to support Minnesotans United for All Families “Pledge to Vote No,” campaign, Theatre Coup d’Etat will be presenting William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet with Romeo played by a woman, as a woman. Theatre Coup d’Etat aims to serve the Minnesota community it works in and the challenges it faces. For more information: http://www.southerntheater.org/theatre-coup-detat/

Winter Market

Saturday, November 10, 10 am – 1 pm

Mill City Museum, 710 Second Street South

The Mill City Farmers Market will offer local produce, free range meats, flowers, cheese, eggs, fish, grains, coffee, baked goods, local artists and much more!

Mpls Photo Center

Mpls Photo Center, 2400 North Second Street

For information on classes and other events: http://www.mplsphotocenter.com/

“When They Came To Take My Father”

Portraits by Mark Seliger: Former Chief Photographer for Rolling Stone Magazine

On Exhibit November 10 – January 4

Opening Reception: Saturday, November 10

Tolerance Minnesota, the award-winning educational initiative of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC) and Photography at the Center are proud to collaborate in bringing the photo exhibit, “When They Came to Take My Father,” to Minnesota. The exhibit, created by world renowned photographer Mark Seliger, consists of 22 black and white photographs of Holocaust survivors and accompanying testimonies. The exhibit is presented courtesy of Holocaust Museum of Houston, which is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. Using the lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides, the Museum teaches the dangers of hatred, prejudice and apathy. Presented in collaboration with Tolerance Minnesota, which seeks to create a more tolerant society, this exhibit is supported by The Blythe Brenden Fund of the Ted and Dr. Roberta Mann Foundation, and presented by Holocaust Museum Houston. Tolerance Minnesota is a program of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas.

The Human Condition: A Survey of Humanity

November 10 – January 4

Opening Reception, Saturday November 10

The theme of the show is both timely and universal. It allowed each artist tremendous freedom to explore everything from breaking news to self-examination; from moments captured to figure studies. The winning photograph (as selected by juror Annie Griffiths-Belt), My Father, Pensive, “glows with tenderness and exquisite light. It is indelible. I couldn’t take my eyes off it, nor will I ever forget it.” The second place photograph, Before the Bris, could have been taken 100 years ago, or yesterday. It is alive with honest emotion. And the third place photograph, Untitled, is a stunning and original depiction of innocence and horror.

Nobel Laureates: 20 Portraits by Doug Knutson

November 10 – January 4

Opening Reception: Saturday November 10

Photographer Doug Knutson specializes in the photographic illustration of people for articles, ads and annuals. A native of the Minneapolis area, Knutson received his B.A. from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, before returning to Minneapolis where he has been a photographer since 1986. Knutson also has studied with documentary photographer Mary Ellen Mark and portrait photographer Arnold Newman. Knutson often photographs assignments for Time, Business Week and Information Week magazines. He has photographed many annual reports and shot ads. Among those who have sat for a Knutson portrait are Nobel laureates Elie Wiesel, Lech Walesa and Archbishop Desmond Tutu; political figures Walter Mondale, Harold Stassen, David Gergan and numerous cabinet Secretaries and Ambassadors; authors Amy Tan, Tom Clancy and Rita Dove; television news personalities Tom Brokaw and Charles Osgood; former Beirut hostages Terry Waite and Terry Anderson; photographer Gordon Parks; explorers Robert Ballard (Titanic), David Breashears (Everest) and Sylvia Earle (National Geographic Society); and actor James Earl Jones.

Keegan’s Salutes Our Military

Keegan’s Pub, 16 University Avenue NE

Marine Corps Birthday

Saturday, November 10

All Marines, active and veterans, and all friends of Marines are invited to join Keegan’s to celebrate the 137th birthday of the Corps. They will open for breakfast at 9 am and stay open until 2 am the next morning. Every Marine and Marine veteran gets his or her first drink free, and they will have S.O.S. on the menu all day for just $4.95.

Veteran’s Day

Sunday, November 11

On Veteran's Day, Keegan's Pub will salute all veterans and members of the armed services. Every veteran and every member of the armed forces will receive his or her first drink free that day, and S.O.S. will be on the menu from 9 am to 10 pm.

Sample of Activities and Classes at The Loft

1011 Washington Avenue South

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

Literary Witness: Sherman Alexie

Monday, November 12, 7 pm

Sherman Alexie reads from Blasphemy: New and Selected Stories, as part of the Literary Witness reading series, cosponsored by Birchbark Books. Sherman Alexie is the author of, most recently, War Dances, stories and poems, from Grove Press, and Face, poetry, from Hanging Loose Press. He is the winner of the 2010 PEN/Faulkner Award, 2007 National Book Award for Young People's Literature, 2001 PEN/Malamud Award for Excellence in the Short Story and a Special Citation for the 1994 PEN/Hemingway Award for Best First Fiction. Smoke Signals, the film he wrote and co-produced, won the Audience Award and Filmmakers Trophy at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival.

Adept Adaptations: Stephanie Curtis, Jane Minto and Shawn Lawrence Otto

Tuesday, November 13, 2012, 5:30 pm

Note: Event will be at The Crooked Pint, 501 Washington Avenue South

Coffee House Press and the Loft cosponsor a happy hour conversation on adapting writing for other mediums. MPR’s Stephanie Curtis (“The Movie Maven”) will moderate a discussion with former IFP-MN executive director Jane Minton and screenwriter Shawn Lawrence Otto, whose film House of Sand and Fog, based on the Andre Dubus novel, was nominated for three Oscars.

Society of Professional Journalists: Dramatic Details—Without Dramatic License

Thursday, November 15, 7 pm

Performance Hall

The Society of Professional Journalists and the Loft cosponsor an event exploring the choices writers make when writing the “truth.” "The tools of the theater are not the same as the tools of journalism." Those were the words performer Mike Daisey used last winter to defend his now infamous monologue about Apple's supply chain in China. The story was full of vivid details about Daisey's undercover observations at the factory complex and his emotional conversations with its workers—many of which turned out to be made up. After the piece aired on This American Life, Daisey admitted to taking "dramatic license" in order to tell a more compelling story. At this event, we will interview four Twin Cities journalists about how they incorporate dramatic details into their stories—without the dramatic license. How can writers hone their eyes and ears to recognize details that bring true stories to life? Panelists include Sasha Aslanian of Minnesota Public Radio, David Hanners of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Boyd Huppert of KARE 11, and Steve Marsh of Mpls St. Paul and Delta Sky magazines. This event is free and open to the public. For more information: https://loft.secure.force.com/portal/EventCalendarMonthView.

Second Story Reading Series: W.H. Beck and Julie Bowe

Saturday, November 17, 2 pm

Second Story, the Loft's reading series for authors of children's and young adult literature, presents authors W.H. Beck and Julie Bowe. W.H. Beck is an elementary school librarian by day and children's writer by night (well, actually, very early mornings). She reads and writes in northwestern Wisconsin with her husband, two boys, and a big black dog. Malcolm at Midnight is her first book. Julie Bowe is the author of the Friends for Keeps series -- My Last Best Friend, My New Best Friend, My Best Frenemy, My Forever Friends and My Extra Best Friend. My Last Best Friend was included in Kirkus Reviews '07 First Fiction Spotlight: Promising Debuts from Important New Voices, was a finalist for the 2008-09 Great Stone Face Book Award and won the 2008 Paterson Prize for Books for Young People. Second Story is curated by authors Swati Avasthi and Heather Bouwman.

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

1011 Washington Avenue South, 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.

2013 Calendar

with Linda Koutsky

Wednesday, November 14, 6 -- 9pm

Cast aside your electronic calendar and create one that expresses your individuality! In this workshop, you’ll make a 5x7” hardcover book with a professionally designed monthly calendar for January 2013 through January 2014, including major holidays and phases of the moon, as well as blank pages for addresses, lists and the ephemera of daily life. All skill levels welcome. $45 ($40 members) + $25 supply fee.

11th Annual Book Arts Festival

Saturday, November 17

MCBA's studios and The Shop at MCBA

Join MCBA to celebrate the eleventh year of this exciting annual holiday event, offering the most unique holiday shopping in town! The Book Arts Festival at MCBA celebrates the art of the book in Minnesota and beyond, and features dozens of local and regional artists displaying and selling handmade books, journals, paper, prints and gifts. Browse hundreds of unique items and find the perfect gift for everyone on your list -- heck, you could even pick up a little something for yourself. You've been good. Festivities will include artist demonstrations, free hands-on art-making activities for all ages, wintry refreshments and more. The Festival is always free and open to the public!

Family Workshop: Printed Holiday Note Cards

with Aki Shibata

Saturday, November 17, 12:30 -- 4pm

Jump into the holiday spirit by making your own cards this year. Each adult/child pair will learn to use the platen and Vandercook presses while creating note cards with a festive image and letterpress greeting. Students will design their own holiday images and choose text from a variety of messages. Each pair will print 40 cards, and envelopes will be provided. For families w/ children grade 1 and up. $45 ($40 members) per adult/child pair; $22 ($20) each additional participant.

Kroening Interpretive Center Programs (Three Rivers Park District)

North Mississippi Regional Park

For information: 763-694-7693; for map and driving instructions: http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=4&parkid=430. For programs that require reservations, call 763-559-6700 or register on-line: http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org.

Adult Activity: Astronomy under the Night Sky

Wednesday, November 14, 6:30 – 9 pm

Join astronomer Paul Fusco on a journey through a late fall sky. Peer through a powerful telescope at deep sky objects and fall constellations. Bring your digital camera, and take a photo through a telescope. Refreshments served. If weather is cloudy, make-up date is Friday, November 16. Reservations required; reference activity #416917-05. $5. Ages: 16+. To register: http://www.threeriversparks.org/events/A/astronomy-under-the-night-sky.aspx.

Young Children Activity: My Baby, Me and the Mississippi –Turkey Time

Thursday, November 15, 10 – 11 am

It is never too early to begin exploring the natural world! Increase your knowledge while introducing topics to your child at the same time. Have a fun outing, create a timeless craft, and enjoy the company of other parents. Only the child pays. Reservations required, phone only; call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #416903-03. $5. Ages: 0-2 with an adult.

Family Event: Stepping Stones

Saturday, November 17, 1 – 2:30 pm

Although our blooming gardens are far behind us, think ahead for inspiration in creating your own stepping stone. Whether you save it for spring or give it to someone special as a gift this season, let your creativity loose as you design your stone with rocks and shells found down by the river, or bring your own decorations. Reservations required; reference activity #416901-01. $5. Ages: 5+.

Free Family Funday: Ducks

Sunday, November 18, 1 – 3 pm, ongoing

Learn who is a dabbler and who is a diver, which ducks don't quack and how ducks survive migration. For all ages. Drop in any time between 1 and 3 pm.

Weisman Art Museum

Weisman Art Museum, 333 East River Road

http://weisman.umn.edu/

Lia Purpura Reading

Wednesday, November 14, 7:30 pm

Lia Purpura, a 2012 Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship recipient, is the author of three collections of essays including On Looking, finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award, and her latest Rough Likeness (Sarabande, 2012). She is Writer-in-Residence at Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland, and teaches at the Rainier Writing Workshop MFA Program in Tacoma, Washington. Sponsored by the Edelstein-Keller Visiting Writer Series and the Weisman Art Museum.

Broadway Meets Runway

Thursday, November 15; 6 pm social hour and 7 pm runway show

Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts, 1617 North Second Street

You’re invited to enjoy a fabulous evening featuring previewing holiday fashion from local boutiques and Twin Cities theater and performing arts, all to benefit student scholarships and core programming for Lundstrum Center students. The event will be hosted by award-winning TV journalist Robyne Robinson and Founder/CEO of Rox Minneapolis Jewelry. Standard seating will be $50, and premium runway seating will be $100. For information: 612-521-2600 or http://www.lundstrumcenter.org/FundraisingEvents/tabid/101/Default.aspx.

National Theatre Live: Timon of Athens

Thursday, November 15, 7 pm

St. Anthony Main Theatre, 115 Main Street SE

As part of the new partnership between the Guthrie Theater and Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul, the NT Live theater series will bring you high-definition films of its plays. Timons of Athens brings you Shakespeare’s biting satire of consumption, debt and ruin. Tickets are $20, $16 students/seniors, $15 for Film Society members. For information: http://www.mspfilmsociety.org.

*****Input, Participation and Stewardship Opportunities*****

Minneapolis Park Board Budget Public Comment Sessions

Wednesday, November 7, during Administration and Finance Committee meeting following regular 5 pm Board meeting; MPRB Headquarters, 2117 West River Road

Wednesday, November 28, 5 pm, during Board meeting; MPRB Headquarters, 2117 West River Road

Wednesday, December 12, 6 pm; City of Minneapolis public hearing on City levy and 2012 Budget, Room 317 City Hall (Council Chambers), 350 South Fifth Street

The Superintendent’s Recommended 2013 Budget for the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board focuses on maintaining park services and facilities, strategically addressing financial and operational challenges and improving organizational efficiency and service delivery. “The proposed operating budget reflects a zero percent property tax increase and focuses on maintaining what we have, with prioritized budget package options for Board consideration that would fund specific programs and services up to the maximum of a three percent property tax levy,” explained Superintendent Jayne Miller. The Superintendent’s Recommended 2013 Budget totals $62,794,451 for the general operating fund and $10,245,866 for the enterprise operating fund. Initiatives launched by Superintendent Miller in 2012 to align revenue and expenses to department activity areas are continued in her recommended budget. The proposed budget and other budget-related documents are available for viewing at www.minneapolisparks.org (select left link “About MPRB” then “Park Board Budget”) or by calling 612-230-6400. The public may comment on the proposed budget during the above times.

Public Meeting on Conservation Districts

Wednesday, November 14, 4:30 pm

Room 319 City Hall, 350 Fifth Street South

Conservation districts promote sustainable neighborhoods by protecting important physical features and conserving resources in a manner that offers more protections than the zoning code, but fewer protections than historic district design guidelines. The City is exploring ways to conserve important neighborhood resources through the creation of an ordinance that permits the future designation of conservation districts. Public meetings will be held over the next four months to seek input from residents on establishing conservation districts. This first meeting will be a visioning workshop to discuss what residents like about the aesthetics of their neighborhood, the type of alterations that can be made under this ordinance, and help define regulatory roles and fees. For more information: http://www.minneapolismn.gov/cped/conservation_district_ordinance.

Minnehaha Park Playgrounds Survey

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) presented preliminary concepts and play equipment options for Minnehaha Park playgrounds at an open house October 24. The MPRB now seeks additional responses to the concepts for the playground in the Wabun Picnic Area and for the playground on the North Plateau (up the hill north of the main picnic pavilion). The Wabun Picnic Area playground will be the first universal access playground in the Minneapolis park system. This means that over 70% of the play features will be accessible, a much greater percentage than required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Concepts for the North Plateau playground honor its WPA history. Links to concepts can be found on the Minnehaha Park Playground Renovation project page on the MPRB website. Review the concepts, and weigh in on your preferences by completing the survey.

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

Tim Sparks

Wednesday, December 12, 7:30 pm

Guthrie Theater, 818 Second Street South, Dowling Studio

Internationally celebrated finger-style guitarist Tim Sparks is commemorating the 20th anniversary of his solo interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite by re-releasing the recording on Tone Wood Records. This groundbreaking collection was previously only available as an import. Sparks will perform pieces from The Nutcracker Suite, along with his world and jazz repertoire, at a concert at the Guthrie Theater in the Dowling Studio. At the concert, he also will debut selections from his current body of work of 20th Century Russian Composers. The CD is comprised of two works -- a complete transcription of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and Sparks’ arrangements of Eastern European dance tunes titled Balkan Dreams. This innovative body of work also includes one of Tim’s most haunting compositions, The Blues on Bartok Street. When Tim Sparks won the national Finger-style Guitar Championship with his solo guitar rendition of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite in 1993, the critics heralded it as a significant contribution to the existing body of guitar literature. Equally at home with Country, Blues, Jazz or World Music, Sparks’ extraordinary ability has earned him an international reputation as one of the most innovative guitarists working today. Tickets are available at the Guthrie Theater Box Office, charge by phone at 612-377-2224 and online at GuthrieTheater.org. For information: http://www.suemclean.com/shows/tim-sparks-121212/?utm_source=emarketforward%2520-%2520Stay%2520In%2520The%2520Loop&utm_medium=email&utm_content=17130661&utm_campaign=Stay%2520in%2520the%2520Loop%253A%2520Andrew%2520Bird%252C%2520Joss%2520Stone%252C%2520Norah%2520Jones%252C%2520Eric%2520Hutchinson%2520%2526amp%253B%2520More%2521.

Sounds of Blackness: The Night Before Christmas – A Musical Fantasy

Monday, December 17, 7:30 pm

Guthrie Theater, 828 Second Street South, Wurtele Thrust Stage

Minnesota’s three-time Grammy Award-winning Sounds of Blackness returns with their annual performance The Night Before Christmas – A Musical Fantasy. The program is a contemporary adaptation of the beloved poem, A Visit From St Nicholas. This family-friendly musical production brings Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph the Rappin’ Reindeer to life in hilarious song and dance, as they learn the true meaning of Christmas. The music ranges from R&B/Hip-Hop to Jazz, Blues and Gospel and features Sounds of Blackness singers and band in show-stopping, roof-raising songs and scenes. This is a must see performance during the holiday season at the Guthrie Theater. Tickets available at the Guthrie Theater Box Office, charge by phone at 612-377-2224 and online at GuthrieTheater.org. For information: http://www.suemclean.com/shows/sounds-of-blackness-121217/?utm_source=emarketforward%2520-%2520Stay%2520In%2520The%2520Loop&utm_medium=email&utm_content=17047839&utm_campaign=Stay%2520in%2520the%2520Loop%253A%2520Drop%2520The%2520Mic%2521%2520and%2520Sounds%2520Of%2520Blackness.

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

Acme Comedy Club

Tuesdays through Thursday, 8 pm; Fridays and Saturdays, 8 and 10:30 pm

708 North First Street

Enjoy stand-up comedy at one of the top five comedy clubs in the country. For more information: http://www.acmecomedycompany.com.

Classes Available at the Lundstrum Center

Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts, 1617 North Second Street

Dream of performing on Broadway? Preparing for your college audition? Looking to get back into class? Let the Broadway veteran faculty at the Lundstrum Center help develop your gifts. Fall session registration is now open. Children and adults, all levels welcome. Programs include:

• Children: After school programs; age 3 and up.
• Preteen/Young Adults: Broadway Musical Theatre -- Serious training in dance, voice and theater
• Adults: Ballet, tap, jazz, Pilates, voice
• Special Needs Children: “Dance Mania”-ages 6 to 12.

The center offers state of the art, spacious, sun lit studios, with free parking and #14 Metro Transit bus-accessible. Class cards available! For a class schedule please check out the center’s website http://www.lundstrumcenter.org or call 612-521-2600 to be put on their mailing list.

Keegan’s Pub Entertainment

Keegan’s Irish Pub, 16 University Avenue NE

Keegan’s Pub offers a full schedule of live music, Irish lessons, pub quizzes and other activities each month. For more information and a full event calendar, visit http://www.keeganspub.com.

Classes at Surdyk’s

Mondays and Tuesdays

Surdyk’s Liquor and Cheese Shop, 303 East Hennepin Avenue

Surdyk’s offers an extensive and fun choice of classes to help you learn about wine, beer and cheese (both in general and specific types). Check out their calendar at http://www.surdyks.com/events.aspx.

National Park Service “Ranger on Call” Virtual Tour of the Mississippi River

Visitors and residents of the Twin Cities can now have a national park experience 24 hours a day with Ranger on Call, a new virtual tour of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Ranger on Call is an audio guide to exploring some of the park’s most special places. The guide features a series of 20 stops designed to expand users’ knowledge of the Mississippi River and provoke exploration. Users can listen to stories from all along the 72-mile corridor of the national park, and download podcasts and maps online at http://www.rangeroncall.com. Or, for an all-encompassing park experience, users can visit the featured sites along the river in person and dial 1-877-727-1172 (toll free) for the cell phone tour. Ranger on Call features narration by Don Shelby, who brings to life the stories from diverse communities along the river. Tour stops feature the Minneapolis Riverfront, Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary and Lock and Dam #2 in Hastings. Ranger on Call was created by the National Park Service and the Mississippi River Fund. The national park’s 72-mile boundary stretches along the Mississippi River from Dayton/Ramsey, through Minneapolis and Saint Paul, to just south of Hastings. It includes a range of cultural, economic and natural resources — from historic sites like Fort Snelling to unique features including the river’s only waterfall and gorge, to public parks and wildlife refuges. In addition to protecting the river’s ecosystems and water quality and providing access points for recreation, the park offers a range of volunteer and educational activities, including ranger-led canoe, fishing, biking and hiking programs and school programs. http://www.nps.gov/miss. The Mississippi River Fund is the official charitable partner of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The fund supports stewardship and community engagement programs that support the park and its mission. These programs include water quality protection, habitat restoration, formal education, and interpretive programs that share with the public the significant role our National Park plays in American history and culture. http://www.missriverfund.org.

Horse and Carriage Tours

Enjoy a tour of the riverfront via a horse-drawn carriage ride. Regular tours are available from both the Nicollet Island Inn and VIC’s Restaurant on Main Street. For information: http://www.thehitchingcompany.com.

*****Informational Updates*****

MCBA/Jerome Foundation Book Arts Mentorship Series IV

Minnesota Center for Book Arts is proud to announce the recipients of the MCBA/Jerome Foundation Book Arts Mentorship Series IV:

• Laura Andrews (Minneapolis), painter
• Emma Burghardt (Minnetrista), digital artist and animator
• Lisa Loudon (Minneapolis), mixed media artist
• Presley Martin (Minneapolis), environmental artist
• Dave Molner (Roseville), photography and historic/alternative process printer
• Caleb Wood (Grand Rapids), animator

Three jurors, reflecting diverse perspectives and considerable expertise, reviewed 55 applications to make the final selection of six recipients. Jurors included: Erik Brandt, graphic designer and Associate Professor at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD); Sarah Fox, author, editor, educator and co-founder of the Center for Visionary Poetics; and Keith Taylor, photographer, printmaker and recipient of the MCBA/Jerome Mentorship Series III. Mentorship recipients will now embark on a year-long study of new artistic disciplines and one-on-one work with master artist mentors to develop their individual projects. The mentorship program will culminate in an exhibition in MCBA's main gallery in November 2013.

*****Informational Resources*****

Park Board Event Calendar

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB)’s website now features a multi-month event calendar. The current event calendar is now available at http://www.minneapolisparks.org/documents/events.pdf and is a quick guide to MPRB-sponsored and co-sponsored events as well as outside organizers’ permitted events in the parks. Check it out, mark your calendars and enjoy the many events occurring in Minneapolis parks!

Mill City Times

http://www.millcitytimes.com

This web site covers “life, work and play in the Historic Mill District.” It also includes an event listing that is more expansive than the Mill District and that would be a useful resource for you in between issues of the RiverCurrent (or if, as sometimes happens, you accidentally deleted it).

Mississippi River Trail

The Mississippi River Trail follows the course of the mighty Mississippi from its headwaters to the Gulf. A new MRT resource website has been launched for the Minnesota segment of the trail http://www.dot.state.mn.us/bike/mrt.html complete with interactive Google Earth based maps, and a complete series of maps printable at 8 1/2” by 11.”

1 Mississippi Campaign

http://1mississippi.org/

This site includes information on the entire Mississippi River and how you can help protect and enhance it.

*****Riverfront News Articles*****

Lowry Bridge Opening

http://northeast.kstp.com/news/news/169344-lowry-bridge-opening-saturday-minneapolis

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/176054941.html

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/176106281.html

http://kstp.com/article/stories/s2814643.shtml

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/10/27/new-lowry-bridge-reconnects-mpls-communities/

http://www.kare11.com/news/article/996220/14/New-Lowry-Avenue-bridge-opens-in-Mpls

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/10/rolling-out-the-lowry-avenue-bridge/

Upper Harbor Terminal

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/10/24/business/minneapolis-riverfront/

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/248115/group/Business/

Historical Photos of Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam

http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/175852941.html

Julian Bond at Guthrie

http://www.twincities.com/ci_21868685/civil-rights-leader-appear-at-minn-s-guthrie

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/10/27/civil-rights-leader-to-appear-at-minn-s-guthrie/

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/10/28/arts/guthrie-speaker/

Development at Former Totino’s Site

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/10/schafer-richardson-pitches-apartments-at-totinos-site/

Superior Plating Site

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/10/greystar-stepping-in-at-superior-plating-site/

http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/morning_roundup/2012/10/northeast-minneapolis-could-draw-big.html

North Loop Declared a Hipster Neighborhood

http://thelinemedia.com/inthenews/northloop103112.aspx

Minneapolis RiverCurrent 11-1-12

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

Theatre Coup d'Etat Presents

Romeo & Juliet

November 8 – 17

Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Avenue South

Theatre Coup d’Etat invites you to experience the timeless tale of William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, this time told with a twist. Romeo & Juliet has been heralded as “one of the greatest love stories ever told.” We have read it in our high school English classes, watched it unfold on countless stages and have seen it reshaped and splashed on to movie screens across the world. It is a timeless piece of work with a timeless message; that true love is a simple, yet pure and powerful part of life and no single individual should be persecuted in their effort to pursue it. Due to the upcoming vote on the marriage amendment, and in an effort to uphold their mission “to provoke an emotional and analytical response in [their] audiences by showing the depth of the human condition through both classical and contemporary works,” and to support Minnesotans United for All Families “Pledge to Vote No,” campaign, Theatre Coup d’Etat will be presenting William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet with Romeo played by a woman, as a woman. Theatre Coup d’Etat aims to serve the Minnesota community it works in and the challenges it faces. For more information: http://www.southerntheater.org/theatre-coup-detat/

Winter Market

Saturday, November 10, 10 am – 1 pm

Mill City Museum, 710 Second Street South

The Mill City Farmers Market will offer local produce, free range meats, flowers, cheese, eggs, fish, grains, coffee, baked goods, local artists and much more!

Mpls Photo Center

Mpls Photo Center, 2400 North Second Street

For information on classes and other events: http://www.mplsphotocenter.com/

“When They Came To Take My Father”

Portraits by Mark Seliger: Former Chief Photographer for Rolling Stone Magazine

On Exhibit November 10 – January 4

Opening Reception: Saturday, November 10

Tolerance Minnesota, the award-winning educational initiative of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC) and Photography at the Center are proud to collaborate in bringing the photo exhibit, “When They Came to Take My Father,” to Minnesota. The exhibit, created by world renowned photographer Mark Seliger, consists of 22 black and white photographs of Holocaust survivors and accompanying testimonies. The exhibit is presented courtesy of Holocaust Museum of Houston, which is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. Using the lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides, the Museum teaches the dangers of hatred, prejudice and apathy. Presented in collaboration with Tolerance Minnesota, which seeks to create a more tolerant society, this exhibit is supported by The Blythe Brenden Fund of the Ted and Dr. Roberta Mann Foundation, and presented by Holocaust Museum Houston. Tolerance Minnesota is a program of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas.

The Human Condition: A Survey of Humanity

November 10 – January 4

Opening Reception, Saturday November 10

The theme of the show is both timely and universal. It allowed each artist tremendous freedom to explore everything from breaking news to self-examination; from moments captured to figure studies. The winning photograph (as selected by juror Annie Griffiths-Belt), My Father, Pensive, “glows with tenderness and exquisite light. It is indelible. I couldn’t take my eyes off it, nor will I ever forget it.” The second place photograph, Before the Bris, could have been taken 100 years ago, or yesterday. It is alive with honest emotion. And the third place photograph, Untitled, is a stunning and original depiction of innocence and horror.

Nobel Laureates: 20 Portraits by Doug Knutson

November 10 – January 4

Opening Reception: Saturday November 10

Photographer Doug Knutson specializes in the photographic illustration of people for articles, ads and annuals. A native of the Minneapolis area, Knutson received his B.A. from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, before returning to Minneapolis where he has been a photographer since 1986. Knutson also has studied with documentary photographer Mary Ellen Mark and portrait photographer Arnold Newman. Knutson often photographs assignments for Time, Business Week and Information Week magazines. He has photographed many annual reports and shot ads. Among those who have sat for a Knutson portrait are Nobel laureates Elie Wiesel, Lech Walesa and Archbishop Desmond Tutu; political figures Walter Mondale, Harold Stassen, David Gergan and numerous cabinet Secretaries and Ambassadors; authors Amy Tan, Tom Clancy and Rita Dove; television news personalities Tom Brokaw and Charles Osgood; former Beirut hostages Terry Waite and Terry Anderson; photographer Gordon Parks; explorers Robert Ballard (Titanic), David Breashears (Everest) and Sylvia Earle (National Geographic Society); and actor James Earl Jones.

Keegan’s Salutes Our Military

Keegan’s Pub, 16 University Avenue NE

Marine Corps Birthday

Saturday, November 10

All Marines, active and veterans, and all friends of Marines are invited to join Keegan’s to celebrate the 137th birthday of the Corps. They will open for breakfast at 9 am and stay open until 2 am the next morning. Every Marine and Marine veteran gets his or her first drink free, and they will have S.O.S. on the menu all day for just $4.95.

Veteran’s Day

Sunday, November 11

On Veteran's Day, Keegan's Pub will salute all veterans and members of the armed services. Every veteran and every member of the armed forces will receive his or her first drink free that day, and S.O.S. will be on the menu from 9 am to 10 pm.

Sample of Activities and Classes at The Loft

1011 Washington Avenue South

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

Literary Witness: Sherman Alexie

Monday, November 12, 7 pm

Sherman Alexie reads from Blasphemy: New and Selected Stories, as part of the Literary Witness reading series, cosponsored by Birchbark Books. Sherman Alexie is the author of, most recently, War Dances, stories and poems, from Grove Press, and Face, poetry, from Hanging Loose Press. He is the winner of the 2010 PEN/Faulkner Award, 2007 National Book Award for Young People's Literature, 2001 PEN/Malamud Award for Excellence in the Short Story and a Special Citation for the 1994 PEN/Hemingway Award for Best First Fiction. Smoke Signals, the film he wrote and co-produced, won the Audience Award and Filmmakers Trophy at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival.

Adept Adaptations: Stephanie Curtis, Jane Minto and Shawn Lawrence Otto

Tuesday, November 13, 2012, 5:30 pm

Note: Event will be at The Crooked Pint, 501 Washington Avenue South

Coffee House Press and the Loft cosponsor a happy hour conversation on adapting writing for other mediums. MPR’s Stephanie Curtis (“The Movie Maven”) will moderate a discussion with former IFP-MN executive director Jane Minton and screenwriter Shawn Lawrence Otto, whose film House of Sand and Fog, based on the Andre Dubus novel, was nominated for three Oscars.

Society of Professional Journalists: Dramatic Details—Without Dramatic License

Thursday, November 15, 7 pm

Performance Hall

The Society of Professional Journalists and the Loft cosponsor an event exploring the choices writers make when writing the “truth.” "The tools of the theater are not the same as the tools of journalism." Those were the words performer Mike Daisey used last winter to defend his now infamous monologue about Apple's supply chain in China. The story was full of vivid details about Daisey's undercover observations at the factory complex and his emotional conversations with its workers—many of which turned out to be made up. After the piece aired on This American Life, Daisey admitted to taking "dramatic license" in order to tell a more compelling story. At this event, we will interview four Twin Cities journalists about how they incorporate dramatic details into their stories—without the dramatic license. How can writers hone their eyes and ears to recognize details that bring true stories to life? Panelists include Sasha Aslanian of Minnesota Public Radio, David Hanners of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Boyd Huppert of KARE 11, and Steve Marsh of Mpls St. Paul and Delta Sky magazines. This event is free and open to the public. For more information: https://loft.secure.force.com/portal/EventCalendarMonthView.

Second Story Reading Series: W.H. Beck and Julie Bowe

Saturday, November 17, 2 pm

Second Story, the Loft's reading series for authors of children's and young adult literature, presents authors W.H. Beck and Julie Bowe. W.H. Beck is an elementary school librarian by day and children's writer by night (well, actually, very early mornings). She reads and writes in northwestern Wisconsin with her husband, two boys, and a big black dog. Malcolm at Midnight is her first book. Julie Bowe is the author of the Friends for Keeps series -- My Last Best Friend, My New Best Friend, My Best Frenemy, My Forever Friends and My Extra Best Friend. My Last Best Friend was included in Kirkus Reviews '07 First Fiction Spotlight: Promising Debuts from Important New Voices, was a finalist for the 2008-09 Great Stone Face Book Award and won the 2008 Paterson Prize for Books for Young People. Second Story is curated by authors Swati Avasthi and Heather Bouwman.

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

1011 Washington Avenue South, 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.

2013 Calendar

with Linda Koutsky

Wednesday, November 14, 6 -- 9pm

Cast aside your electronic calendar and create one that expresses your individuality! In this workshop, you’ll make a 5x7” hardcover book with a professionally designed monthly calendar for January 2013 through January 2014, including major holidays and phases of the moon, as well as blank pages for addresses, lists and the ephemera of daily life. All skill levels welcome. $45 ($40 members) + $25 supply fee.

11th Annual Book Arts Festival

Saturday, November 17

MCBA's studios and The Shop at MCBA

Join MCBA to celebrate the eleventh year of this exciting annual holiday event, offering the most unique holiday shopping in town! The Book Arts Festival at MCBA celebrates the art of the book in Minnesota and beyond, and features dozens of local and regional artists displaying and selling handmade books, journals, paper, prints and gifts. Browse hundreds of unique items and find the perfect gift for everyone on your list -- heck, you could even pick up a little something for yourself. You've been good. Festivities will include artist demonstrations, free hands-on art-making activities for all ages, wintry refreshments and more. The Festival is always free and open to the public!

Family Workshop: Printed Holiday Note Cards

with Aki Shibata

Saturday, November 17, 12:30 -- 4pm

Jump into the holiday spirit by making your own cards this year. Each adult/child pair will learn to use the platen and Vandercook presses while creating note cards with a festive image and letterpress greeting. Students will design their own holiday images and choose text from a variety of messages. Each pair will print 40 cards, and envelopes will be provided. For families w/ children grade 1 and up. $45 ($40 members) per adult/child pair; $22 ($20) each additional participant.

Kroening Interpretive Center Programs (Three Rivers Park District)

North Mississippi Regional Park

For information: 763-694-7693; for map and driving instructions: http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=4&parkid=430. For programs that require reservations, call 763-559-6700 or register on-line: http://www.threeriversparkdistrict.org.

Adult Activity: Astronomy under the Night Sky

Wednesday, November 14, 6:30 – 9 pm

Join astronomer Paul Fusco on a journey through a late fall sky. Peer through a powerful telescope at deep sky objects and fall constellations. Bring your digital camera, and take a photo through a telescope. Refreshments served. If weather is cloudy, make-up date is Friday, November 16. Reservations required; reference activity #416917-05. $5. Ages: 16+. To register: http://www.threeriversparks.org/events/A/astronomy-under-the-night-sky.aspx.

Young Children Activity: My Baby, Me and the Mississippi –Turkey Time

Thursday, November 15, 10 – 11 am

It is never too early to begin exploring the natural world! Increase your knowledge while introducing topics to your child at the same time. Have a fun outing, create a timeless craft, and enjoy the company of other parents. Only the child pays. Reservations required, phone only; call 763-559-6700 and reference activity #416903-03. $5. Ages: 0-2 with an adult.

Family Event: Stepping Stones

Saturday, November 17, 1 – 2:30 pm

Although our blooming gardens are far behind us, think ahead for inspiration in creating your own stepping stone. Whether you save it for spring or give it to someone special as a gift this season, let your creativity loose as you design your stone with rocks and shells found down by the river, or bring your own decorations. Reservations required; reference activity #416901-01. $5. Ages: 5+.

Free Family Funday: Ducks

Sunday, November 18, 1 – 3 pm, ongoing

Learn who is a dabbler and who is a diver, which ducks don't quack and how ducks survive migration. For all ages. Drop in any time between 1 and 3 pm.

Weisman Art Museum

Weisman Art Museum, 333 East River Road

http://weisman.umn.edu/

Lia Purpura Reading

Wednesday, November 14, 7:30 pm

Lia Purpura, a 2012 Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship recipient, is the author of three collections of essays including On Looking, finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award, and her latest Rough Likeness (Sarabande, 2012). She is Writer-in-Residence at Loyola College in Baltimore, Maryland, and teaches at the Rainier Writing Workshop MFA Program in Tacoma, Washington. Sponsored by the Edelstein-Keller Visiting Writer Series and the Weisman Art Museum.

Broadway Meets Runway

Thursday, November 15; 6 pm social hour and 7 pm runway show

Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts, 1617 North Second Street

You’re invited to enjoy a fabulous evening featuring previewing holiday fashion from local boutiques and Twin Cities theater and performing arts, all to benefit student scholarships and core programming for Lundstrum Center students. The event will be hosted by award-winning TV journalist Robyne Robinson and Founder/CEO of Rox Minneapolis Jewelry. Standard seating will be $50, and premium runway seating will be $100. For information: 612-521-2600 or http://www.lundstrumcenter.org/FundraisingEvents/tabid/101/Default.aspx.

National Theatre Live: Timon of Athens

Thursday, November 15, 7 pm

St. Anthony Main Theatre, 115 Main Street SE

As part of the new partnership between the Guthrie Theater and Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul, the NT Live theater series will bring you high-definition films of its plays. Timons of Athens brings you Shakespeare’s biting satire of consumption, debt and ruin. Tickets are $20, $16 students/seniors, $15 for Film Society members. For information: http://www.mspfilmsociety.org.

*****Input, Participation and Stewardship Opportunities*****

Minneapolis Park Board Budget Public Comment Sessions

Wednesday, November 7, during Administration and Finance Committee meeting following regular 5 pm Board meeting; MPRB Headquarters, 2117 West River Road

Wednesday, November 28, 5 pm, during Board meeting; MPRB Headquarters, 2117 West River Road

Wednesday, December 12, 6 pm; City of Minneapolis public hearing on City levy and 2012 Budget, Room 317 City Hall (Council Chambers), 350 South Fifth Street

The Superintendent’s Recommended 2013 Budget for the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board focuses on maintaining park services and facilities, strategically addressing financial and operational challenges and improving organizational efficiency and service delivery. “The proposed operating budget reflects a zero percent property tax increase and focuses on maintaining what we have, with prioritized budget package options for Board consideration that would fund specific programs and services up to the maximum of a three percent property tax levy,” explained Superintendent Jayne Miller. The Superintendent’s Recommended 2013 Budget totals $62,794,451 for the general operating fund and $10,245,866 for the enterprise operating fund. Initiatives launched by Superintendent Miller in 2012 to align revenue and expenses to department activity areas are continued in her recommended budget. The proposed budget and other budget-related documents are available for viewing at www.minneapolisparks.org (select left link “About MPRB” then “Park Board Budget”) or by calling 612-230-6400. The public may comment on the proposed budget during the above times.

Public Meeting on Conservation Districts

Wednesday, November 14, 4:30 pm

Room 319 City Hall, 350 Fifth Street South

Conservation districts promote sustainable neighborhoods by protecting important physical features and conserving resources in a manner that offers more protections than the zoning code, but fewer protections than historic district design guidelines. The City is exploring ways to conserve important neighborhood resources through the creation of an ordinance that permits the future designation of conservation districts. Public meetings will be held over the next four months to seek input from residents on establishing conservation districts. This first meeting will be a visioning workshop to discuss what residents like about the aesthetics of their neighborhood, the type of alterations that can be made under this ordinance, and help define regulatory roles and fees. For more information: http://www.minneapolismn.gov/cped/conservation_district_ordinance.

Minnehaha Park Playgrounds Survey

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) presented preliminary concepts and play equipment options for Minnehaha Park playgrounds at an open house October 24. The MPRB now seeks additional responses to the concepts for the playground in the Wabun Picnic Area and for the playground on the North Plateau (up the hill north of the main picnic pavilion). The Wabun Picnic Area playground will be the first universal access playground in the Minneapolis park system. This means that over 70% of the play features will be accessible, a much greater percentage than required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Concepts for the North Plateau playground honor its WPA history. Links to concepts can be found on the Minnehaha Park Playground Renovation project page on the MPRB website. Review the concepts, and weigh in on your preferences by completing the survey.

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

Tim Sparks

Wednesday, December 12, 7:30 pm

Guthrie Theater, 818 Second Street South, Dowling Studio

Internationally celebrated finger-style guitarist Tim Sparks is commemorating the 20th anniversary of his solo interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite by re-releasing the recording on Tone Wood Records. This groundbreaking collection was previously only available as an import. Sparks will perform pieces from The Nutcracker Suite, along with his world and jazz repertoire, at a concert at the Guthrie Theater in the Dowling Studio. At the concert, he also will debut selections from his current body of work of 20th Century Russian Composers. The CD is comprised of two works -- a complete transcription of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and Sparks’ arrangements of Eastern European dance tunes titled Balkan Dreams. This innovative body of work also includes one of Tim’s most haunting compositions, The Blues on Bartok Street. When Tim Sparks won the national Finger-style Guitar Championship with his solo guitar rendition of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite in 1993, the critics heralded it as a significant contribution to the existing body of guitar literature. Equally at home with Country, Blues, Jazz or World Music, Sparks’ extraordinary ability has earned him an international reputation as one of the most innovative guitarists working today. Tickets are available at the Guthrie Theater Box Office, charge by phone at 612-377-2224 and online at GuthrieTheater.org. For information: http://www.suemclean.com/shows/tim-sparks-121212/?utm_source=emarketforward%2520-%2520Stay%2520In%2520The%2520Loop&utm_medium=email&utm_content=17130661&utm_campaign=Stay%2520in%2520the%2520Loop%253A%2520Andrew%2520Bird%252C%2520Joss%2520Stone%252C%2520Norah%2520Jones%252C%2520Eric%2520Hutchinson%2520%2526amp%253B%2520More%2521.

Sounds of Blackness: The Night Before Christmas – A Musical Fantasy

Monday, December 17, 7:30 pm

Guthrie Theater, 828 Second Street South, Wurtele Thrust Stage

Minnesota’s three-time Grammy Award-winning Sounds of Blackness returns with their annual performance The Night Before Christmas – A Musical Fantasy. The program is a contemporary adaptation of the beloved poem, A Visit From St Nicholas. This family-friendly musical production brings Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph the Rappin’ Reindeer to life in hilarious song and dance, as they learn the true meaning of Christmas. The music ranges from R&B/Hip-Hop to Jazz, Blues and Gospel and features Sounds of Blackness singers and band in show-stopping, roof-raising songs and scenes. This is a must see performance during the holiday season at the Guthrie Theater. Tickets available at the Guthrie Theater Box Office, charge by phone at 612-377-2224 and online at GuthrieTheater.org. For information: http://www.suemclean.com/shows/sounds-of-blackness-121217/?utm_source=emarketforward%2520-%2520Stay%2520In%2520The%2520Loop&utm_medium=email&utm_content=17047839&utm_campaign=Stay%2520in%2520the%2520Loop%253A%2520Drop%2520The%2520Mic%2521%2520and%2520Sounds%2520Of%2520Blackness.

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

Acme Comedy Club

Tuesdays through Thursday, 8 pm; Fridays and Saturdays, 8 and 10:30 pm

708 North First Street

Enjoy stand-up comedy at one of the top five comedy clubs in the country. For more information: http://www.acmecomedycompany.com.

Classes Available at the Lundstrum Center

Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts, 1617 North Second Street

Dream of performing on Broadway? Preparing for your college audition? Looking to get back into class? Let the Broadway veteran faculty at the Lundstrum Center help develop your gifts. Fall session registration is now open. Children and adults, all levels welcome. Programs include:

• Children: After school programs; age 3 and up.
• Preteen/Young Adults: Broadway Musical Theatre -- Serious training in dance, voice and theater
• Adults: Ballet, tap, jazz, Pilates, voice
• Special Needs Children: “Dance Mania”-ages 6 to 12.

The center offers state of the art, spacious, sun lit studios, with free parking and #14 Metro Transit bus-accessible. Class cards available! For a class schedule please check out the center’s website http://www.lundstrumcenter.org or call 612-521-2600 to be put on their mailing list.

Keegan’s Pub Entertainment

Keegan’s Irish Pub, 16 University Avenue NE

Keegan’s Pub offers a full schedule of live music, Irish lessons, pub quizzes and other activities each month. For more information and a full event calendar, visit http://www.keeganspub.com.

Classes at Surdyk’s

Mondays and Tuesdays

Surdyk’s Liquor and Cheese Shop, 303 East Hennepin Avenue

Surdyk’s offers an extensive and fun choice of classes to help you learn about wine, beer and cheese (both in general and specific types). Check out their calendar at http://www.surdyks.com/events.aspx.

National Park Service “Ranger on Call” Virtual Tour of the Mississippi River

Visitors and residents of the Twin Cities can now have a national park experience 24 hours a day with Ranger on Call, a new virtual tour of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Ranger on Call is an audio guide to exploring some of the park’s most special places. The guide features a series of 20 stops designed to expand users’ knowledge of the Mississippi River and provoke exploration. Users can listen to stories from all along the 72-mile corridor of the national park, and download podcasts and maps online at http://www.rangeroncall.com. Or, for an all-encompassing park experience, users can visit the featured sites along the river in person and dial 1-877-727-1172 (toll free) for the cell phone tour. Ranger on Call features narration by Don Shelby, who brings to life the stories from diverse communities along the river. Tour stops feature the Minneapolis Riverfront, Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary and Lock and Dam #2 in Hastings. Ranger on Call was created by the National Park Service and the Mississippi River Fund. The national park’s 72-mile boundary stretches along the Mississippi River from Dayton/Ramsey, through Minneapolis and Saint Paul, to just south of Hastings. It includes a range of cultural, economic and natural resources — from historic sites like Fort Snelling to unique features including the river’s only waterfall and gorge, to public parks and wildlife refuges. In addition to protecting the river’s ecosystems and water quality and providing access points for recreation, the park offers a range of volunteer and educational activities, including ranger-led canoe, fishing, biking and hiking programs and school programs. http://www.nps.gov/miss. The Mississippi River Fund is the official charitable partner of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The fund supports stewardship and community engagement programs that support the park and its mission. These programs include water quality protection, habitat restoration, formal education, and interpretive programs that share with the public the significant role our National Park plays in American history and culture. http://www.missriverfund.org.

Horse and Carriage Tours

Enjoy a tour of the riverfront via a horse-drawn carriage ride. Regular tours are available from both the Nicollet Island Inn and VIC’s Restaurant on Main Street. For information: http://www.thehitchingcompany.com.

*****Informational Updates*****

MCBA/Jerome Foundation Book Arts Mentorship Series IV

Minnesota Center for Book Arts is proud to announce the recipients of the MCBA/Jerome Foundation Book Arts Mentorship Series IV:

• Laura Andrews (Minneapolis), painter
• Emma Burghardt (Minnetrista), digital artist and animator
• Lisa Loudon (Minneapolis), mixed media artist
• Presley Martin (Minneapolis), environmental artist
• Dave Molner (Roseville), photography and historic/alternative process printer
• Caleb Wood (Grand Rapids), animator

Three jurors, reflecting diverse perspectives and considerable expertise, reviewed 55 applications to make the final selection of six recipients. Jurors included: Erik Brandt, graphic designer and Associate Professor at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD); Sarah Fox, author, editor, educator and co-founder of the Center for Visionary Poetics; and Keith Taylor, photographer, printmaker and recipient of the MCBA/Jerome Mentorship Series III. Mentorship recipients will now embark on a year-long study of new artistic disciplines and one-on-one work with master artist mentors to develop their individual projects. The mentorship program will culminate in an exhibition in MCBA's main gallery in November 2013.

*****Informational Resources*****

Park Board Event Calendar

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB)’s website now features a multi-month event calendar. The current event calendar is now available at http://www.minneapolisparks.org/documents/events.pdf and is a quick guide to MPRB-sponsored and co-sponsored events as well as outside organizers’ permitted events in the parks. Check it out, mark your calendars and enjoy the many events occurring in Minneapolis parks!

Mill City Times

http://www.millcitytimes.com

This web site covers “life, work and play in the Historic Mill District.” It also includes an event listing that is more expansive than the Mill District and that would be a useful resource for you in between issues of the RiverCurrent (or if, as sometimes happens, you accidentally deleted it).

Mississippi River Trail

The Mississippi River Trail follows the course of the mighty Mississippi from its headwaters to the Gulf. A new MRT resource website has been launched for the Minnesota segment of the trail http://www.dot.state.mn.us/bike/mrt.html complete with interactive Google Earth based maps, and a complete series of maps printable at 8 1/2” by 11.”

1 Mississippi Campaign

http://1mississippi.org/

This site includes information on the entire Mississippi River and how you can help protect and enhance it.

*****Riverfront News Articles*****

Lowry Bridge Opening

http://northeast.kstp.com/news/news/169344-lowry-bridge-opening-saturday-minneapolis

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/176054941.html

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/176106281.html

http://kstp.com/article/stories/s2814643.shtml

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/10/27/new-lowry-bridge-reconnects-mpls-communities/

http://www.kare11.com/news/article/996220/14/New-Lowry-Avenue-bridge-opens-in-Mpls

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/10/rolling-out-the-lowry-avenue-bridge/

Upper Harbor Terminal

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/10/24/business/minneapolis-riverfront/

http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/event/article/id/248115/group/Business/

Historical Photos of Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam

http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/175852941.html

Julian Bond at Guthrie

http://www.twincities.com/ci_21868685/civil-rights-leader-appear-at-minn-s-guthrie

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/10/27/civil-rights-leader-to-appear-at-minn-s-guthrie/

http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2012/10/28/arts/guthrie-speaker/

Development at Former Totino’s Site

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/10/schafer-richardson-pitches-apartments-at-totinos-site/

Superior Plating Site

http://finance-commerce.com/2012/10/greystar-stepping-in-at-superior-plating-site/

http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/morning_roundup/2012/10/northeast-minneapolis-could-draw-big.html

North Loop Declared a Hipster Neighborhood

http://thelinemedia.com/inthenews/northloop103112.aspx

Above the Falls Master Plan Meeting

Presentations from City of Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development Department and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board on recommended land use and parks for the Above the Falls area of North and Northeast Minneapolis.

Mississippi Messages Calendar - November 2012

Calendar of Events ‘Make and Take’ Rain Barrel Workshop Wednesday, November 14 — 6:30-8:30 pm Minnesota Humanities Center (near Lake Phalen), St. Paul Did you know that, according to the EPA, lawn and garden watering make up nearly 40% of total household water use during the summer? Or that the biggest threat to our waters today is polluted runoff — water that runs off our roofs and into our streets and alleys, carrying oil, sediment and other contaminants into our lakes, rivers and streams? But there is one simple way to save water, save money, and help protect our watershed: use a rain barrel to collect and store rainwater for use on your lawn and gardens. During the course of this workshop, participants will be provided with the necessary parts ($30 per kit) and guided through the process of converting these containers to rain barrels. To learn more, or sign up, please see the event listing. Read more » For current event listings and more information on the events listed above, please visit our events calendar page at www.fmr.org/participate/events. Please note that FMR's Volunteer Coordinator, sue rich, is typically in the office Tuesday through Thursday. She is available via email at srich@fmr.org, by phone at 651-222-2193 x14, or through FMR's online contact form.

Calendar of Events ‘Make and Take’ Rain Barrel Workshop