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Covering life, work, and play in the Historic Mill District and Downtown Minneapolis Riverfront neighborhoods. Have an opinion, local news or events to share?  Contact us.

Saturday
Dec072019

Mill District Residents Adapt a Houseful of Holiday Cheer to Condo-sized Christmas Wonderland

Article and photos by Becky Fillinger

What to do if you really, really love decorating for the holidays but you’ve moved from a large single family home in the Maplewood suburbs to a Mill District condo? You learn to curate your collection to fit your new space – and do it with panache!

Randy Goetz, now a resident at The Legacy, grew up in Halliday, N.D. In the late 50s early 60s, the North Dakota prairie town of a few hundred people strung colored lights from street lamp to street lamp. Randy’s father built a large wooden star decorated with blue C9 bulbs for display outside the home. Randy took over tree and other interior decoration duties in the 5th grade. “I remember the decorating as a time of family engagement – Dad and I could bond over our plans for the holiday season."  

Jump forward to Randy’s home in Maplewood in the 1990s. He would put up three 7-foot fully decorated trees, and every room would be tastefully decked out for Christmas. He would begin decorating the Friday before Thanksgiving and it would take three full days to finish. Moving to the Bridgewater Lofts 10 years ago presented a dilemma for Randy. It was necessary to cull his collection by half. A subsequent move to The Legacy required another downsizing. As a result, this year it took Randy only 4 hours to decorate, but the outcome is still spectacular.

In addition to a beautiful white flocked Christmas tree with red decorations, his display this year includes Christopher Radko bottle brush trees, vintage tulle and aluminum trees, Gurley candles and a fresh advent wreath. Randy prefers vintage ornaments to mass produced items – finding many of them online at Etsy and eBay. Organic, fresh floral arrangements are also on display throughout the holidays. 

Why does he continue the traditions? “It makes me feel good. I have wonderful memories of decorations in my childhood and later on in my adult homes, and even going to Minneapolis to look at Dayton’s displays.” Randy and his husband, Kevin, have another Christmas tradition. They make cookies, and a lot of them.  This year cookie day was December 6, during which 22 varieties were baked for a grand total of 1,314 Christmas cookies!

How do you celebrate the winter holidays? Do you have long-standing traditions you'd like to share with Mill City Times readers? Let us know via our Facebook page.  

Saturday
Dec072019

November by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

 

Friday
Dec062019

Holiday Cheer at the December 7 and 14 Mill City Farmers Market

The Mill City Farmers Market will be in full swing December 7 and December 14 inside the Mill City Museum - just in time for your holiday preparations!

Check out the list of vendors you'll find at the December 7 Market via this handy link.

At a loss for gift ideas? You can't go wrong with a stack of $5 Market Tokens, which can be used same as cash with any vendor at the Market.

Take advantage of complimentary gift wrapping at both December Markets!

 

Thursday
Dec052019

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project Update

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

Hennepin Ave. reconstruction project, led by City of Minneapolis Public Works, will be reconstructed between 12th Street and Washington Avenue beginning Spring 2019.  The project will reconstruct the pavement from building face to building face, including improvements to public and private utility infrastructure, and improved infrastructure for pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and vehicles.
.
Latest Project News

Sanitary Sewer work on Phase 1 of the project is complete.  The Xcel and Fiber work will continue on Phase 1 throughout the winter months.

Xcel is continuing to progress on Phase 2 north of 7th and will continue through the winter as well.

What's Coming Up 

Xcel continues with structural work between 7th and 10th.  Their work will be moving south of 10th in the coming weeks.  Xcel is also working north of 5th with structural and cable pulling tasks.

Please see attached update for more details: 

Hennepin_Update_Vol18.pdf

For more information on this project contact: 

Construction Manager, hennepinCM@minneapolismn.gov or 612-225-4049

www.hennepindowntown.com

Wednesday
Dec042019

MPRB Seeks Residents Interested in Serving on a Community Advisory Committee

Three advisory committees are now accepting applications
Applications for 2020 appointments are due Wednesday, December 18, 2019
.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) Board of Commissioners is seeking applications for appointments to five ongoing community advisory committees:

  • St. Anthony Falls Heritage Board (one appointee) to begin serving on January 2, 2020
  • Minneapolis Tree Advisory Committee (five appointees) to begin serving on January 2, 2020
  • Racial Equity Community Advisory Committee (one appointee) to begin serving immediately. The appointee may continue serving on the Committee for a two year term commencing on July 1, 2020, if interested.
  • Glyphosate Technical Advisory Committee (three appointees) to begin serving immediately, the term will end on November 30, 2020
  • Neighborhood & Community Engagement Committee (one appointee) to begin serving on July 1, 2020
  • HomeGrown (one appointee) – to begin serving on January 2, 2020
  • Minneapolis Bicycle Advisory Committee (three appointees) – to begin serving on July 1, 2020
  • Pedestrian Advisory Committee (one appointee) – to begin serving on July 1, 2020

Service commitment may vary based upon needs, expectations and policy goals. However, most advisory committee members can expect to approximately 10-15 hours of work per month. Most terms are two years and all board and commission members are not subject to term limits.

Some Boards/Commissions have a need for specialized skills, but most people will find a Board or Commission that is a great fit for their knowledge base. Public members of Board and Commissions are people who may not have regular, ongoing experience in a specific topic area, but have a general interest in a Board or Commission’s work area. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about an area of interest and contribute a perspective that is fresh and unique to the service area.

Applications must be received no later than 4 p.m., Wednesday, December 18, 2019.  Following submission, applicants will receive an email confirming receipt of the application and describing the general process for appointment. Appointments for open positions will be made at the January 2, 2020 business meeting of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. For a full description of each committee and to complete the application please visit: https://www.minneapolisparks.org/abca.

Applicants with questions about the appointments process should email their questions to board.appointments@minneapolisparks.org or contact Radious Guess at 612-230-6419.

Please click here to sign up to be notified of all advisory committee opportunities.

Contact:  

Radious Guess, Community Outreach, Equity and Inclusion Manager, 612-230-6419, rguess@minneapolisparks.org

Tuesday
Dec032019

MSP Film Presents Palme d'Or Winner PARASITE Opening December 6 at MSP Film's St. Anthony Main Theatre

Via a December 3 Press Release:

MSP Film presents PARASITE, Bong Joon Ho's Palme d'Or winning pitch-black modern fairytale, opening December 6 on Screen #3 at St. Anthony Main Theatre.

Meet the Park Family: the picture of aspirational wealth. And the Kim Family, rich in street smarts but not much else. Be it chance or fate, these two houses are brought together and the Kims sense a golden opportunity. Masterminded by college-aged Ki-woo, the Kim children expediently install themselves as tutor and art therapist, to the Parks. Soon, a symbiotic relationship forms between the two families. The Kims provide “indispensable” luxury services while the Parks obliviously bankroll their entire household. When a parasitic interloper threatens the Kims’ newfound comfort, a savage, underhanded battle for dominance breaks out, threatening to destroy the fragile ecosystem between the Kims and the Parks.

By turns darkly hilarious and heart-wrenching, PARASITE showcases a modern master at the top of his game.

Monday
Dec022019

Holiday Music at the Hennepin County Government Center

The Hennepin County Government Center will continue its annual tradition of season and holiday performances, free and open to the public. Performances will take place in the Skyway Level, 300 S 6th Street from Noon - 1 p.m. unless otherwise noted in the below schedule.

SCHEDULE:

December 10 and 19
City-County Chorus
Hennepin County, City of Minneapolis and 4th Judicial District Court employees perform a variety of songs of the season.

December TBD
Ameriprise Holiday Choir
Sponsored by Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Since 1986, 25 members perform secular, Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa holiday songs.

December 20
Chippewa Middle School, noon - 12:45 p.m.
8th grade string orchestra of 69 students perform Hanukkah and Christmas music.

Saturday
Nov302019

December at the Dakota

We've been going to the Dakota for years, and are sharing this list of Decmeber shows in case anyone out there wasn't aware of this local treasure where every month you'll find a varitey of local, national and international music genres.  Photo: Meet Minneapolis

Sunday, December 1

Humbird + The Aida Shahghasemi, Jeremy Ylvisaker & Jacqueline Ultan Trio

A Homecoming Co-bill - 7pm - $30/25/20

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/humbird-the-aida-shahghasemi-jeremy-ylvisaker-jacqueline-ultan-trio/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Monday, December 2

Travis Anderson Trio: Celebrates Vince Guaraldi Holiday & George Shearing Centennial - Added Show

7pm - $20/15

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/travis-anderson-trio-celebrates-vince-guaraldi-holiday-george-shearing-centennial-2/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Tuesday, December 3

Travis Anderson Trio: Celebrates Vince Guaraldi Holiday & George Shearing Centennial

7pm - $20/15

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/travis-anderson-trio-celebrates-vince-guaraldi-holiday-george-shearing-centennial/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Wednesday, December 4

Willy Porter Well-rendered Tales With Spitfire Strumming

7pm - $30/25/20

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/willy-porter/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Thursday, December 5

Southside Aces: Christmas in New Orleans - "'Zat You, Santa Claus?" 

7pm - $15/10

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/southside-aces-christmas-in-new-orleans/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

On Sale Fri, Nov 22 at 10am

Friday, December 6

Nicholas David’s Annual St Nick’s Day Show - (on actual St. Nick’s Day)

Alt Soul Celebration - 7pm - $45/35/30

9:30pm - $45/35/30

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/nicholas-davids-annual-st-nicks-day-show-3/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Saturday, December 7

Tuck & Patti  -  First Couple of Soul Jazz

7pm - $55/50/45

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/tuck-patti/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Sunday, December 8

Tuck & Patti - First Couple of Soul Jazz

7pm - $45/40/35

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/tuck-patti-2/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Monday, December 9

Mick Sterling Presents: “At Christmas”

Theatrical Holiday Favorites - 7pm - $25/20/15

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/mick-sterling-presents-at-christmas-2/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Tuesday, December 10

Richard Johnson Quartet: Ramsey Meets Nancy

A Tribute to Ramsey Lewis & Nancy Wilson - 7pm - $30/35

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/richard-johnson-quartet/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Wednesday, December 11

Holiday Swing w/Maria Muldaur & John Jorgenson - 7pm - $50/45/35

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/holiday-swing-w-maria-muldaur-john-jorgenson/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Thursday, December 12

Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles: Navidad Mexicana - Dakota Debut

America's First All-female Mariachi

7pm - $65/55/45

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/mariachi-reyna-de-los-angeles/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Friday, December 13

Holiday Har Mar Experience Benefitting One Heartland

10pm - $35 General Admission

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/holiday-har-mar-experience-benefitting-one-heartland/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Saturday, December 14

Holiday Har Mar Experience Benefitting One Heartland

10pm - $35 General Admission

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/holiday-har-mar-experience-benefitting-one-heartland-2/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Sunday, December 15

Bonerama

Rock Funk Brass Explosion  -  7pm - $45/40/35

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/bonerama/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Monday, December 16

A Melodious Christmas w/Robert Robinson & Special Guests feat. Mary Beth Carlson and 29:11 from Cape Town, South Africa 

7pm - $35/30

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/a-melodious-christmas-w-robert-robinson-and-special-guests/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Tuesday, December 17

The Best of Sting & The Police – A Tribute Show by Toast In The Machine

Zenyatta MNdatta

7pm - $25/20/15

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/the-best-of-sting-the-police-a-tribute-show-by-toast-in-the-machine/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Wednesday, December 18

Alexander O’Neal’s Holiday Concert

One of R&B's Most Iconic Names

7pm - $50/45/40 - 9pm - $45/40/35

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/alexander-oneals-holiday-concert/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/


Thursday, December 19 - Date Added

Alexander O’Neal’s Holiday Concert

One of R&B's Most Iconic Names

7pm - $50/45/40 - 9pm - $45/40/35

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/alexander-oneals-holiday-concert/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Friday, December 20 - Date Change

The Vic Volare Lounge Orchestra’s Holiday Party

Retro-Smooth Sass & Swing - 7pm - $15/10

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/the-vic-volare-lounge-orchestras-holiday-party/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Saturday, December 21

BoDeans

Acclaimed Heartland Rock

7pm - $65/55/45 (Acoustic Show) / 9:30pm - $60/50/40 (Electric Show)

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/bodeans-2019-1/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Sunday, December 22

BoDeans

Acclaimed Heartland Rock

6pm - $65/55/45 (Acoustic Show) / 8:30pm - $60/50/40 (Electric Show)

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/bodeans-2019-3/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Monday, December 23

George Maurer Group: 21st Annual Holiday Show

Clever Contemporary Christmas Tunes - 7pm - $30/25/20

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/george-maurer-group-21st-annual-holiday-show/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Wednesday, December 25 - Saturday, December 28

The Bad Plus

Progressive Jazz Scientists

7pm - $45/40 / 9pm - $45/40

https://www.dakotacooks.com/event/the-bad-plus-9/?utm_source=MillCityTimes&utm_campaign=MillCityTimes/

Friday
Nov292019

Are You Ready to Holidazzle? The 2019 Season Opens in Loring Park on Friday, November 29


The Minneapolis holiday tradition Holidazzle returns to Loring Park on Friday, November 29 for four weekends of community festivities. This year’s Holidazzle adds new programming and offerings to the favorite weekly activities enjoyed annually at Holidazzle, offering a free outing filled with activities and holiday cheer for all ages and abilities.

Holidazzle 2019 Thursdays – Sundays, November 29 – December 22 Thursdays from 5 pm – 9 pm | Fridays from 5 pm – 10 pm Saturdays from 11 am – 10 pm | Sundays from 11 am – 7 pm Loring Park | holidazzle.com | Free & open to the public

“Holidazzle welcomes you and yours to Loring Park to celebrate the holiday season and create memories in our downtown Minneapolis community,” said Leah Wong, vice president of external relations, mpls downtown council. “There is a great lineup of activities to enjoy, and each weekend will include different festivities and shopping opportunities making each visit unique and special.”

This year’s Holidazzle presents a number of new things to see and do:
  • Lampworking Style Glass blowing demonstrations each Friday from 5-10 pm
  • Story time sessions featuring authors and Santa on Saturdays and Sundays
  • Local adoptable rescue animal visits on Saturdays and Sundays
  • Pop-up ice rink skating performances
  • Most Epic Dog Day featuring events & giveaways on Sunday, Dec. 8
  • Yeti Day giveaways on Sunday, Dec. 15
  • Expanded Holidazzle Kids Zone presented by U.S. Bank
  • Performance deck
  • Introduction of the new Yeti illuminated interactive art installation
  • Cooking demos featuring the talented Minneapolis culinary scene
  • New food vendors featuring a variety of styles, tastes, and options (including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free). Exclusive items on Thursdays & Sundays only.
  • Added offerings from Fulton Beer (the exclusive “Small Talk Stout” Chocolate Oatmeal Stout, as well as “Goodwill Gold” Golden Lager and Lime seltzer) and Sociable Cider Werks Candy Apple cold beverage
  • The Wandering Mug coffee, lattes and hot chocolate Contact: Meredith Kessler mkessler@tunheim.com (651) 308-6224 Marika Kelly (763) 412-2198 mkelly@tunheim.com
  • Mpls Craft Market, hosting makers daily at Holidazzle, providing a rotating mix of holiday shopping options each weekend in addition to nine flagship, full-run Holidazzle gift vendors
Plus, annual favorites returning to this year’s Holidazzle include:
  • Holidazzle Fireworks presented by Xcel Energy (Nov. 29, Dec. 7, 14, 21 at 7 pm)
  • Meet Santa and take photos for free during all Holidazzle hours
  • Eight Holidazzle Movie Nights presented by Metro by T-Mobile (featuring Elf, Home Alone, A Christmas Story, The Grinch [2018], Miracle, Polar Express, Smallfoot and Christmas with the Kranks)
  • Free skating with complimentary skates available at Mpls WinterSkate
  • Local Musical Performances • Bonfires & Warming Houses
  • The Thwing, an interactive multi-person swing
  • Photo and Instagram opportunities inside giant snow globes
  • Alpacas from The Abbey Alpacas on site each Sunday
  • Silent disco skating on Thursday nights
  • SolSta Vinyl Night in Fulton Beer Garden on Thursday nights
  • Drag Queen Bingo at the Fulton Beer Garden on the final Friday nights (Dec. 6, 13, 20)
  • Exclusive Holidazzle brunch each Sunday
  • Visit the Holidazzle schedule page for details: www.holidazzle.com/schedule
Holidazzle offers an incredible assortment of on-site prepared food and beverages representing Minnesota’s culinary scene, including limited time items: the exclusive Holidazzle sausage (featuring wild rice and cranberries) from Kramarczuk’s, two new Fulton Beers including a Chocolate Oatmeal Stout called Small Talk Stout and Golden Lager called Goodwill Gold, and Sociable Cider Werks’ Fat Bike hot mulled apple cider and a cold Candy Apple cider released first at Holidazzle. Other food offerings in the lineup include:
  • Cinnamon Roasted Almonds Fair Faves Fresco Foods 
  • Gorkha Palace Heavenly Feast Bar-B-Que
  • iPierogi K-Town Street Foods Kramarczuk’s MSP Pretzel
  • Poffertjes (The Littlest Pancake) Root to Rise Kitchen 
  • Tasty Gyros
  • Twin Cities Paella 
Complementing the prepared food and beverages, Holidazzle will have an assortment of shopping options including clothing, accessories, ornaments, craft artwork, syrups and more. The Abbey Alpacas The Beer Dabbler Cabin Customs Hippy Feet KCM Woodworks Northern Drift Three Rivers Farms North Shore Apparel MN/Martin’s Simple Trends

The Mpls Craft Market will also be bringing makers each day to Holidazzle. Their space will be packed full of local artists and makers selling handmade jewelry, clothing and accessories, woodwork, home decor, prints, fiber art and more. The lineup of artists will be different each day, so visit us throughout the weekend and you’ll always find something new. For daily updates on the full listing of Mpls Craft Market makers, visit Holidazzle.com.

Also, of note: lighting and ambiance will be part of the Holidazzle experience, including twinkle lights within Loring Park, and a new illuminated interactive art Yeti exhibit by Christopher Lutter-Gardella, who created the Wolf and Moose found exclusively at Holidazzle from 2016- 2018. Exclusive food items on select days include Thursday Night Bites (including Fresco’s Foods’ beer braised beef pie, Heavenly Feast Bar-B-Que’s burnt mac & cheese with pork or beef, Root To Rise’s butternut squash & cashew ricotta fried veggrolls with maple cream dipping sauce and more) and Sunday Brunch (including K-Town Street Foods’ breakfast burrito, iPierogi’s beer soup, Fresco’s Foods’ sausage gravy and egg pie and more). Pair your brunch offerings with a Mimosa from Sociable Cider Werks or a Bloody Beer at Fulton Beer.

When planning a trip to Holidazzle, visitors can enjoy Free Ride Nights courtesy of Metro Transit each Saturday throughout the run. Get there by bus or light rail with a free-ride pass, which can be downloaded at Holidazzle.com. Print or digitally show your pass for each passenger to enjoy your free ride. The free-ride pass is good from 10 am-11 pm each Saturday from Nov. 30 through Dec. 21.

Other arrival opportunities include parking for $5 or less during all Holidazzle hours at Minneapolis College’s parking ramp (1420 Hennepin Avenue). A drop-off and pick-up location will be available on the corner of Yale Place and Willow Street includes Uber and Lyft zones, and ADA-accessible parking spots are available along Willow Street.

For more information on Holidazzle scheduling, vendors and entertainment, visit www.holidazzle.com and follow along on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #Holidazzle. While at the event, patrons are also encouraged to use Holidazzle’s Snapchat filter. Holidazzle imagery can be found at www.holidazzle.com/media.

About Holidazzle: The 2019 Holidazzle is managed and produced by the mpls downtown council. Holidazzle is an annual holiday tradition in downtown Minneapolis that offers free programming and activities for all ages and ability while also highlighting local people, places and products that make our community unique. The 2019 Holidazzle is sponsored by Xcel Energy, Fulton Beer, CenterPoint Energy, Metro by T-Mobile, U.S. Bank, Power Partner Minnesota, Parsons Electric, Comcast, Metro Transit, Mpls St. Paul Magazine, Sociable Cider Werks, Minneapolis College, Minneapolis Recycles and Premium Waters.

About the mpls downtown council: Founded in 1955, and one of the most historic central business associations in the nation, the mpls downtown council (mdc) is a membership-based entity that works to create an extraordinary downtown. The mdc’s collaborative developments of Intersections: The Downtown 2025 Plan was designed to help downtown businesses, community leaders and citizens build on downtown assets and implement future goals. For more information, please visit www.mplsdowntown.com.
Thursday
Nov282019

Letter from the Executive Director of GiveMN re: Cedar Riverside Fire Emergency Fund

Via a November 27 email from GiveMN.org:
.
Dear friends,
.
I don't often write to you about a specific need in our community, but as many of us are preparing to gather with family and friends for the Thanksgiving holiday, more than 100 of our fellow Minnesotans have suffered an incredible tragedy. Wednesday morning's fire at the Riverside Tower in the Cedar Riverside community of Minneapolis claimed the lives of multiple people and injured many others.
.
In addition to the first responders who worked to extinguish the fire and ensure the safety of residents and neighbors, the staff of People's Center Clinic and their partner organizations are working to provide for the needs of victims who are displaced from their homes, in need of food and clothing and medical care, and will need additional support in the weeks to come. They have established a specific fund to support those impacted by the Riverside Tower fire.
.
Your gift, together with mine and those of our neighbors, will provide crucial support to those whose lives were forever changed by this tragedy.
.
In gratitude,
Jake Blumberg
Executive Director, GiveMN

 

Wednesday
Nov272019

Event-related Road Closures for November 28 and 30

The Minneapolis Park and Rec Board has announced the following event-related road closures:

Thursday, November 28
Turkey Day 5K, 7am-11am
West River Parkway - Plymouth Ave to 11th Ave S
.
.
.
Saturday, November 30
Moustache Run, 8:30am-1:30pm
Main Street - 6th Ave SE to Plymouth Ave
West River Parkway - Plymouth Ave to E 38th St
Stone Arch Bridge

 

 

Tuesday
Nov262019

Here's What to Expect in Minneapolis Parks When Snow Arrives

Via a November 26 e-announcement from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

After each snowfall of at least two inches (accumulated), MPRB maintenance crews

clear snow from about 107 acres of parking lots, 140 miles of sidewalks, paths and regional trails; and (in season) ice rinks at 24 locations. 

Locations are prioritized as follows:

  1. Parking lots
  2. Trails in regional parks and regional trails
  3. Perimeter sidewalks - all parks
  4. Interior pathways - all parks 

    Note: Parkways are cleared of snow by the City of Minneapolis.

    The City's snow emergency webpage has parking rules, routes for city streets and parkways and other info.
    MPRB's parkway webpage has additional information on parkway maintenance. 

MPRB makes every effort to have snow removed throughout the park system within 24 hours after the snowfall ends. Delays may occur due to blizzard or other severe weather conditions. Thanks for your patience and understanding in these circumstances. Get more information on winter maintenance in Minneapolis parks.

Report a snow-removal issue: If it's been more than 24 hours since a snowfall ended and an area needs attention, please email maintenance@minneapolisparks.org or call MPRB Customer Service: 612-230-6400, from 8 am­ to 4:30 pm, Monday–Friday.

Recreation centers and programs

  • Recreation center hours are noon to 9 pm on Wednesday, November 27 and Friday, November 29 (school-release day hours, as Minneapolis Public Schools are not in session). 
  • Athletics, recreation and Rec Plus programs: Cancellations are not likely, but if they occur, registered program participants will be notified. Families enrolled in MPRB's Rec Plus school-age childcare program can check the MPRB website or WCCO /CBS Minnesota for information. 

Safety Tips

  • Use caution and take your time when walking, biking or driving in parks and on parkways.
  • Yield to pedestrians on shared-use trails in winter. 

Get up-to-date information from the National Weather Service Hazardous Weather Outlook report. 

Tuesday
Nov262019

Doug Verdier Shares His Latest Progress Photos of the Water Works Project

Editors Note: Mill District resident Doug Verdier continues to document the progress of the Water Works project. The below photos were taken within the past week.

Of particular interest: Before and after shots of the reinforced concrete wall and elevator shaft going in next to the Columbia Mill wall; prep work for installation of large storm water infrastructure, which will be part of the reuse system; asphalt being laid on West River Parkway in front of the future park pavilion as well as on First Street S and 5th Avenue S intersection. 

This is a “before” shot of workers installing rebar in preparation for constructing forms that will be used in pouring the concrete reinforcing wall and elevator shaft next to former Columbia Mill. The “after” shot is at the end.

Preparing the site for installation of storm water retention and reuse system.
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Large pipes that will form part of the storm water reuse system. These pipes were positioned along West River Parkway prior to being emplaced and connected on the site.
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Some of the storm water infrastructure in place.
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Rows of connected storm water system in place. The white bands indicate connections between sections.
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Crew laying asphalt on West River Parkway.
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Asphalt-laying operation on West River Parkway looking toward 3rd Avenue Bridge.
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Curve at 1st Street S and 5th Avenue S after base layer of asphalt has been laid.
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Here’s the “after” shot of crews removing forms after the concrete reinforcing wall and elevator shaft next to the former Columbia Mill exterior wall was set.
Monday
Nov252019

The City of Minneapolis Invites You to Take the Open Streets Minneapolis Survey

Via a November 25 e-announcement from Matthew Dyrdahl, Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator, City of Minneapolis:

Open Streets Minneapolis is an annual event series that opens city streets to folks biking, walking, and rolling. Every summer since 2011, Our Streets Minneapolis has temporarily closed major streets to motor vehicles so folks can explore their city and discover local businesses, use active transportation, and connect with their neighbors. In 2019, over 103,000 people came out to Open Streets Minneapolis events!

The City of Minneapolis and Our Streets Minneapolis are reflecting on the Open Streets Minneapolis program and evaluating ways for the program to be sustainable and meaningful beyond the 2020 season. We have heard many ideas from people over the years about how Open Streets could evolve and multiple themes have emerged, including types of routes, programming, and timing for the events. Help us determine how to shape the future of the Open Streets program by completing this short survey:

Future of Open Streets Minneapolis Survey

The five questions in this survey reflect the most common comments, questions, and feedback we receive about Open Streets. Your feedback on these five questions will inform what Open Streets looks like in the future.

Monday
Nov252019

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Rolls into St. Paul's Union Depot on December 10

If you want to experience the brightly lit Canadian Pacific Holiday Train, mark your calendar for December 10, when it will stop at Union Depot in St. Paul for a 30-minute outdoor holiday musical performance. The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is expected to arrive around 6:45 p.m. and festivities will begin with a welcome by Ramsey County Commissioner Rafael Ortega. Guests will be treated to a festive concert experience while enjoying the colorful holiday lights that cover the train.  

Attendees are encouraged to bring cash or a heart-healthy food donation for Merrick Community Services, charitable partner for this year’s Hub for the Holidays festivities at Union Depot. The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train’s unique mission aims to fight hunger. This program spreads awareness of this issue while providing a fun and engaging way for the public to help give back. The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train has raised more than $11 million and collected 4.5 million pounds of food since its start in 1999.

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train concert is free to the public; however, VIP tickets are available for $10 with all proceeds going to Merrick Community Services. VIP ticket holders will be granted access to a preferred viewing area closest to the stage. Visit cptrain2019.eventbrite.com to purchase tickets.

Hop on the light rail and take the Green Line to the Union Depot Station.

Sunday
Nov242019

Meet Minneapolis Teams up with Minnesota Makers on Small Business Saturday, Nov 30

Minnesota Makers proudly celebrates the work of local Minnesota artists by promoting them and providing a place to sell their work. All products in their stores are created by Minnesota artists, with over 120 artists represented. 

Small Business Saturday is November 30, and Minnesota Makers will be celebrating it with Meet Minneapolis at the Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center, 505 Nicollet Mall. You'll find sale items, treats, giveaways, and more. This is a perfect opportunity to support your local small businesses and artists! 

Minnesota Makers also hosts craft classes. While you're there, learn more about their classes and reserve your seat for a future class. Experience gifts are a great idea for the holidays, and Minnesota Makers has gift cards available for classes and shopping as well.

Saturday
Nov232019

Cynthia Froid Group Serves as a Drop Off Site for Holiday Toys and Gifts for People Serving People, Nov 25 - Dec 13

Spread some holiday cheer to children and families supported by People Serving People’s shelter and programs.

Cynthia Froid Group's office, 709 2nd S Street, will once again serve as a drop off site for holiday toys and gifts from November 25 to December 13.

Donations accepted: Toys and gifts from (or inspired by) People Serving People’s Target registry, $25 Target gift cards, wrapping paper and tape. All gifts must be new and unwrapped.

Friday
Nov222019

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project Update

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

Hennepin Ave. reconstruction project, led by City of Minneapolis Public Works, will be reconstructed between 12th Street and Washington Avenue beginning Spring 2019.  The project will reconstruct the pavement from building face to building face, including improvements to public and private utility infrastructure, and improved infrastructure for pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and vehicles.
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Latest Project News
 

Utility work continues on the corridor. The major scopes of work are Xcel Energy duct bank and manhole replacement, and City Sanitary Sewer Replacement.

What's Coming Up 

The Sanitary Sewer replacement work is nearing the end of their Phase 1 work within the 12th Street Intersection.  The Intersection will remained closed until Monday. Following that work the pavement restoration will continue until mid next week.

Xcel Energy is progressing on the both ends of the corridor with both underground construction and new electrical cable pulling operations.  This work will continue through the winter months.

For more detailed information please see attached update. 

Hennepin_Update_Vol17.pdf

For more information on this project contact: 

Construction Manager, hennepinCM@minneapolismn.gov or 612-225-4049

www.hennepindowntown.com

Thursday
Nov212019

Ready for Winter at North Mississippi Park

Nature's Black Friday Fun

Ditch the mall crawl and opt outside this year! Hike the park, build a fort, go on a scavenger hunt, play games and join in the coloring contest!
Friday November 29 11am-3pm    Activity #97361

Winter Solstice Celebration  

Walk a glowing luminary trail, play winter themed games, get your face painted make a luminary to take home and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire while sipping hot spiced cider with campfire treats. All Ages. $5 – Kids under 13 free
Saturday Dec 21 5:00-7:30pm      Activity #97366
 

ADULTS

Bird Watching

  • Watchful Wednesdays   Every other week  8:30-10:00am
    Discover what to look for when identifying birds in the field. Learn about bird behaviors while strolling with a naturalist. Coffee, tea and treats provided. Dec. 4   #100231    Dec. 18   #100232
  • Winter Birds  Saturday Dec 7  8:30-10am    Activity #97363
    Look for the last of our summertime birds with a naturalist guide
  • Winter Woodpeckers  Saturday Jan 4       3-4:30pm  Activity #101557
    Seek out the bright flashes of woodpeckers on the bare trees

Nature Nights

  • Date Night  Thursday December 12 6:00-8:00pm   Activity #100236
    Enjoy naturalist-led gourmet campfire cooking and craft a ginger-bird house to bring home.
  • Book Club   Every other Sunday 4:30-6:00pm 

Prepare for fun and engaging discussion and a safe place to share insights and opinions. Explore short stories and passages from nature based works.

Dec. 1  Activity #100254

Dec. 15  Activity #100255

Hikes

  • Senses in the Season  Friday December 20 5:30-6:30pm   Activity #100220
    After the hustle and bustle of the week, take a peaceful walk through the park to realign your senses with nature.
  • Phenology Hike Club  Every other Tuesday 4:00-5:00pm

Get outside for a walk in the park to observe and track the seasonal happenings of nature then gather and submit citizen science data with a naturalist guide. Socialize, exercise and contribute to the study of Phenology.

Dec. 3 
Activity #100247

Dec. 17
Activity #100248

YOUTH & FAMILIES

Early Childhood

  • Nature Play Group  4 Wednesdays 10:15-11:15am
    Get those inquisitive minds and bodies exploring nature and socializing with peers! Bring your little one to play and have fun outside with other children and parents/guardians. For kids up to age 5 with an adult
    Nov 27- Dec 18  Activity #100212
  • Nature Tots  2nd & last Sundays 3:00-4:00pm

December 1
Oh Deer!
Activity #100267

December 15
Ready for Winter
Activity #100268

December 29
Snowflakes
Activity #100269

Home School Days

Learn why some animals prefer to live in our backyards and neighborhoods, search for the clues they leave behind outside and meet a live education animal.

  • Northern Life   Thursday Jan. 9 1-3pm    Activity # 101564
    Learn how the animals that stay here all year have figured out ways to survive by taking a closer look at animal bodies and behaviors.

Nature Art & Exploration

Craft your own “horn of plenty” for your dining table this year using natural materials found in the park.

  • Family Funday: Turkey Time  Sunday Dec 1  1:00-3:00pm    Activity #97362
    Play games and have fun investigating feathers, tail fans, snoods and feet to learn more about these big birds.
  • Ginger-bird Houses   Saturday Dec. 14 1:00-2:30pm    Activity #97364

Invite birds into your backyard this winter by crafting an edible snack house for them. All ages $5, all supplies included.

  • Family Funday: Sleep, Flee, Freeze  Sunday Dec.29 1-3pm  Activity #97365

Learn about hibernation, migration and ways animals survive Minnesota winters. Meet live animals and find out how their bodies protect them through the winter.


Winter Break Options for Kids

Explore outdoors, get messy and learn by doing! 8am-4pm for ages 6-12

WINTER WHIMSY

Thursday & Friday December 26 -27      Activity #97368
Build an icy fortress, follow mysterious footprints as you adventure across the frozen land, determine which animal is your familiar friend, and more.
Registration Fee $60.

Creatures of the Cold

Thursday & Friday January 2-3        Activity #101599
From thick protective fur to big snowshoe feet we'll test out some of the methods animals use to combat the cold as we explore the winter landscape in the park
Registration Fee $60.


Snowshoeing

DROP-IN PROGRAM. Get some wonderful exercise while recreating in nature by checking out a pair of snowshoes for free! A naturalist will be available to show you the basics and then you are free to explore the park on your own. Ages 5 & up.

 

Saturdays 11am-3pm

Sundays 1-3pm

December

21   Activity #97367

 

 

28   Activity #97369

 

January

4   Activity #101577

5  Activity #101585

 

11  Activity #104578

12  Activity #101586

 

Full Moon Snowshoe Hike   Friday Jan. 10 6:30-7:30pm    Activity #101608
Learn how the animals that stay here all year have figured out ways to survive by taking a closer look at animal bodies and behaviors.


More Ways to Enjoy the Park

Stop by the front desk to check out binoculars, outdoor explore packs & nature guides. Talk with a naturalist to meet and learn about our education animals. Celebrate your birthday with us!  

Like North Mississippi on Facebook to stay in the loop about what’s happening in our park! Learn more about North Mississippi Regional Park at our website

Thursday
Nov212019

The City of Minneapolis and the 2020 Census

The U.S. census is a count of all residents in the United States taken every 10 years and is required by the U.S. Constitution. It is used to determine political representation and federal funding distribution for governments, including at the state and local levels. In 2020, it will determine how many congressional representatives Minnesota will have for the next decade. Getting an accurate and complete count of all residents is vital. The Neighborhood & Community Relations Department leads the City of Minneapolis' efforts to ensure a complete count.

More Info

Sign up here for the latest We Count news for the 2020 census.

The City is taking steps to ensure that the 2020 census accurately counts Minneapolis's residents through the establishment of a community-led Complete Count Committee to guide the creation of the We Count engagement campaign. Read more and apply for open seats on the committee.