Kim Eslinger
Editor
612-321-8040
kim@millcitymedia.org

Brianna Ojard
Associate Editor

David Tinjum
Publisher
612-321-8020
dave@millcitymedia.org

Claudia Kittock
Columnist / Non-Profits
Email Claudia...

Becky Fillinger
Small Business Reporter
Producer / Milling About
Email Becky...

Michael Rainville Jr.
History Columnist
Email Michael...

Doug Verdier
River Matters

Mill City Times is a not-for-profit community service. We do not sell advertising on this site.

Community Partners

Thanks to our community partners, whose support makes Mill City Times possible:

MILL CITY FARMERS MARKET

With over 100 local farmers, food makers and artists, MCFM strives to build a local, sustainable and organic food economy in a vibrant, educational marketplace.

Visit their website...

HENNEPIN HISTORY MUSEUM

Hennepin History Museum is your history, your museum. We preserve and share the diverse stories of Hennepin County, MN. Come visit!

Visit their website...

MEET MINNEAPOLIS

Maximizing the visitor experience of Minneapolis for the economic benefit of our community, making Minneapolis the destination of choice among travelers.

Visit their website...

MSP FILM SOCIETY

Promoting the art of film as a medium that fosters cross-cultural understanding, education, entertainment, and exploration.

Visit their website...

GREAT RIVER COALITION

Enhancing the Minneapolis riverfront environment—for people and pollinators.

Visit their website...

Cultural Cornerstones
Search Mill City
Recent News
Front Page Archives

Minneapolis Riverfront News

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.

Sunday
Jul152018

2nd Round of RFP's for Guthrie Liner Parcel

Several developers are interested in building on a vacant, city-owned lot next in between the Guthrie Theater and Washington Avenue in downtown Minneapolis.

Developers submit proposals for city-owned site near Guthrie in Minneapolis
Four developers have submitted possible plans for the vacant strip. Read article from last week in the Strib...

Downtown Minneapolis residents want a say in city's sale of Guthrie Liner Parcel

Initial plans fell through when Mortenson Development announced it was abandoning a plan to build a 10-story tower with a 235-room Hyatt Centric hotel on the property. Read article from last year in the Strib...

Friday
Jul132018

Restaurant Week, Summer 2018: July 15-20

Restaurant Week

Celebrate the best of Twin Cities dining with a week's worth of great deals in some of the Twin Cities trendiest and best restaurants from July 15 - 20. Participating restaurants will serve two to three course, prix fixe menus for just $10 to $35 per person. (beverage, tax and gratuity not included)

Click this link for the list of participating downtown restaurants.

Wednesday
Jul112018

Tickets for the October 24 Minnesota Sports Awards Now on Sale

Via a July 11 Press Release from Meet Minneapolis:

The second annual awards gala, presented by Sports Minneapolis, recognizes
Minnesota’s top athletes and coaches

Today, Sports Minneapolis, powered by Meet Minneapolis, announces tickets are now on sale for the second annual Minnesota Sports Awards. The gala event will take place on Oct. 24, 2018, at U.S. Bank Stadium and will feature the top athletes in the state as well as local sports celebrities. The Minnesota Sports Awards, presented by Sports Minneapolis, recognize the outstanding achievement of high school, collegiate and professional athletes, many of whom will be on hand for the evening’s awards ceremony.

Nominations are still being accepted for deserving athletes, including the Professional Athlete of the Year presented by FOX Sports North (FSN), as well as the Minnesota Sports Moment of the Year, the Courage Award, sponsored by TRIA, plus a new award for Minnesota’s Coach of the Year. The deadline to nominate high school and collegiate athletes is July 15.

Awards will be given in the following categories: 

  • High School Athlete of the Year (Male/Female)
  • Collegiate Athlete of the Year (Male/Female)
  • Professional Athlete of the Year – presented by FOX Sports North
  • Coach of the Year
  • Minnesota Sports Moment of the Year
  • Courage Award – presented by TRIA

The public is invited to attend this event which includes a silent auction, dinner and an entertaining awards ceremony featuring the winning athletes and coaches, as well as a number of high-profile sports celebrities. 

  • Oct. 24 at U.S. Bank Stadium
  • Tickets start at $195
  • Purchase online
  • Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
  • Show begins at 7:30 p.m.

A portion of the proceeds from the Minnesota Sports Awards will benefit the Sanneh Foundation, created by former Major League Soccer player and native Minnesotan, Tony Sanneh.  The Sanneh Foundation seeks to support and empower youth through programs targeting both physical and emotional well-being.

The second annual Minnesota Sports Awards will be carried live by FSN across multiple digital platforms and rebroadcast at a later date.

Wednesday
Jul112018

Updates from Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (MWMO)

Excerpts from the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (MWMO) July 10 e-newsletter:

Westminster

Exploring the High-Tech Stormwater Reuse System at Westminster Presbyterian Church

In January, Westminster Presbyterian Church opened the doors to its new $48 million, 49,000-square-foot addition along the Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis. The church and its landscape are a case study in environmental leadership. Learn how Westminster and its partners pushed the envelope on sustainability with a state-of-the-art stormwater reuse system that is a first of its kind in the city.  More Info

Four Fun Ways to Experience the Mississippi River this Summer

If you live in the Twin Cities and haven’t spent time up close and personal with the Mississippi River, you’re missing out. It’s hard to think of another major metro area that has a national park running through the middle of it, and with lots of free or low-cost ways to enjoy the river, there’s no excuse not to get out and experience this natural icon.

Whether you’re into paddling, biking, hiking, wildlife-spotting or just some shoreline relaxation, the Mississippi River has something to offer you. Below is our summer guide to experiencing the river. We’re obviously biased toward things happening inside our watershed, so feel free to add your own suggestions in the comments. What’s your favorite way to enjoy with the river?  More Info

Hall's Island Restoration

Wondering what the deal is with that new island near downtown Minneapolis? This video explains all. Learn how the restoration of Hall's Island will benefit people, wildlife and water quality in the Mississippi River. Watch on YouTube

Monday
Jul092018

2018 Sister Cities Day is July 22 at Nicollet Island Pavilion

Sister Cities Day at Nicollet Island Pavilion

Sunday, July 22nd, 1-5 PM, at the Nicollet Island Pavilion

Come be part of this annual event where we celebrate over 40 years of being part of the Sister Cities program. All 12 of the Minneapolis Sister Cities will be celebrated with a FREE Ice Cream Social and gathering at the Nicollet Island Pavilion. This family event features multi-cultural entertainment, children activities, ice cream and refreshments. The event highlights all of Minneapolis’ International Sister Cities, with a special spotlight this year on the 10th anniversary of our Sister City with Cuernavaca, Mexico!

This even is free and open to the public.

Minneapolis Sister Cities Day Official Program:

1:00 - Welcome remarks: Bill Deef, SVP Public Affairs – Meet Minneapolis
Announcer for the program: Michael Hernandez, Director of Visitor Services – Meet Minneapolis

1:05 - Speaker: Teresa Olson, Honorary Consul of Chile in Minnesota
Minneapolis - Santiago, Chile Sister Cities

1:10  - Iraqi American Reconciliation Project
Minneapolis - Najaf, Iraq Sister Cities
Speaker: Jessica Belt

1:15-1:35 - Songs of Hope - a performing arts summer camp representing countries from around the world

1:40 - Minneapolis Ibaraki City Sister City Association
Speaker: Karl Reinhard 

1:40-2:00 - Japanese Dancers from Ibaraki City, Japan

2:00 - Remarks from elected officials
Melvin Tennant, President & CEO – Meet Minneapolis
Recognition of the 10th Anniversary of Minneapolis and Cuernavaca, Mexico Sister City Relationship
Speaker: Columba Reyes, Chair – Minneapolis Cuernavaca Sister City Association

2:15-2:35 - Ballet Folklorico Mexico Lindo

2:40 - Speaker: Ralph Beha, Chair – US China Peoples Friendship Association – MN Chapter
Minneapolis – Harbin, China Sister Cities

2:45-3:15 Hongde Choy Li Fut Lion Dancers
Hongde Choy Li Fut Kung Fu Students

3:15 - Speaker: Degha Shabbeleh – Minnesota Friends of Bosaso
Minneapolis – Bosaso, Somalia Sister Cities

3:15-3:35 - Somali Museum Dance Troupe

3:40 - Speaker: Coventry Cowens, International Leadership Institute
Minneapolis – Eldoret, Kenya Sister Cities

3:45 - Speaker: Representative of Minneapolis Kuopio Partnership
Minneapolis – Kuopio, Finland Sister Cities

3:50 - Speaker:  Gail Beske, President – Minneapolis Tours Sister Cities
Minneapolis – Tours, France Sister Cities

3:55 - Speakers: Katie Fournier and Miranda Striegel, Co-Chairs – Minneapolis Uppsala Friendship Committee      
Minneapolis – Uppsala, Sweden Sister Cities     
 
4:00-4:20 - Twin Cities Swedish Folk Dancers

4:30 - Enso Daiko – Taiko Drumming Group (TENT)

Sunday
Jul082018

Scenes for the July 7 Mill City Farmers Market

Three new vendors debuted at the July 7 Mill City Farmers Market: Sudify, Furniture by DeGarmo and Root to Rise Kitchen.

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers MarketSusan Storck of Sudify transforms objects found in nature into wearable pieces of art.

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers MarketTamara and TiAnna DeGarmo of Furniture by DeGarmo use wood sourced from local sawmills that salvage wind fallen trees to create  furniture, kitchen accessories and other homewares.

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers MarketHeather Klein's Root To Rise Kitchen is a 100% plant-based food business. All their dishes are made from scratch using high quality, mostly organic ingredients.

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

Yes! Raspberries are finally here! :)

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

Milly the goat!

July 7, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

Saturday
Jul072018

“Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” Art Exhibit Opening at The Mill Yard at Stonebridge Lofts, July 18

The Mill Yard presents a new show, Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, showcasing local artists. Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” is an upbeat, humorous and inspirational ode to life and the places it takes us. For many, these ‘places’ are geographical locations. For some, these ‘places’ are not physical at all. Rather, they may be social, emotional, spiritual ‘rooms’ to which we retreat to rest and relax, ponder, ask questions or be inspired. You're invited to come, be inspired, prodded, reminded, and encouraged just as Dr. Seuss encourages and inspires us in his book.

At The Mill Yard opening reception, local chef Jessi Peine's food truck, Peeps Hot Box, will be parked out front selling world street foods inspired by seasonal ingredients. Andrew Zimmern of Food Network said, "Peeps Hot Box is one of the best food trucks I've ever eaten at anywhere in the country." All attendees will receive an Izzy Buck to help satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, the Misfits Coffee truck will be here too!

Facebook, Twitter, Contact: TheMillYard.Stonebridge@gmail.com

GALLERY AND ARTIST DETAILS:

Jim Dryden
The New House
Jim Dryden, a native of North Dakota, is a painter and sculptor. His work frequently deals with themes of partnership, connectedness and intimacy. He is a graduate of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, a founding member of Form + Content Gallery, and a member artist of Traffic Zone Center for Visual Art. The pieces Jim has selected for The Mill Yard are specifically about time and place. 
“From the autobiographical series Love|Hate, these paintings represent a timeline of the places I come from, have been to, and hope to go. A farm in North Dakota, a white, clapboard, country church, a pink sand beach on Lake Superior, a secluded fish pond, a new home still in the dream stages. These are the times and places that connect me to my past, future, family, and community.” 
Jim’s art is represented in numerous collections including the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the University of Minnesota Tretter Collection, Walker Art Center, the Weisman Art Museum. Web site: http://www.jimdryden.net/
.
Margaret Grill
The Old Neighborhood Thanked HerMargaret Grill is a visual artist inspired by place, a sense of home, and landscape. She has worked as a visual artist for more than 10 years and exhibited with a diverse group of galleries and venues. In her own words she is “inspired by process, specifically the fluid, flexible, and messy process of painting. My initial inspiration is worked out through a repetitive progression of drawing, collage, and washes using water-soluble oils. Layering media allows me to illustrate complex ideas into a visual language. This process is then evident in my finished work, as the layers of paint appear in varying degrees of transparency, an effect that speaks to passing time, flux, and my hand as an artist. As a painter, I capture the change I see in the landscape, as I feel it allows me to better understand my place in the world. Change can be beautiful, exciting, unexpected and disconcerting.” 
She has selected art for The Mill Yard with the hope it inspires viewers to observe their own landscapes and ask questions about the changes they see. Web site:  mgrillpainting.com
.
Kevin Peters
Spring BloomKevin Peters Fine Art was born out of the conclusion that adding beauty to this world is indeed a worthwhile, venerable pursuit. Kevin began as a hobbyist landscape painter while living in southern Cambodia, but capturing what the eye sees and putting it on canvas quickly began to lose his interest. He wanted to begin “painting things not of this world...deeper things...things of the heart, soul, and, mind”. This desire, along with months of self-study, gave birth to Kevin’s signature abstract painting style. The Minneapolis-based artist has selected pieces for The Mill Yard that are created to represent the essence of the innermost “happy place,” sometimes called the soul.
 
“My hope is that each of these pieces fills you with a sense of tranquility and happiness, reminding you to take the time to go to your happy place... which may not be a literal place at all!”
Email: kevinpeters.fineart@gmail.com
.
Jane Weis
Valley FarmJane Weis began her 25-year painting career with watercolor, then acrylic, and now oil and pastel. She has engaged in a range of artistic mediums including woodcut printing, designing and building furniture, cabinet making and museum archival framing. She considers herself a Midwestern regional artist and says, “much of my art is born from my affection for the rolling hills and deciduous trees of the Midwest.” Jane loves to travel for the excitement of new food, people, enormous cities, small towns, landscapes, vineyards and nature. And, “I love to come home.  To feel the peace and familiarity of coming home brings a unique joy to me.” The pieces she has selected for The Mill Yard are paintings and pastels of her rural landscapes, farmscapes, and sky paintings from Minnesota, Nebraska, Colorado and Maine. “All beautiful places.”  Web site:  janeweispaintings.com
.
Sara Zhang
In Kitchen #1
‘By day,’ Sara Zhang is a NASA scientist in Washington, DC; however, she has been drawing and painting since she was a teenager in Shanghai, China, where she was born and raised.  Sara is primarily a self-taught artist, but travels the world for business and pleasure to study the work of ‘masters.’ With a trained mind and eye she analyzes what makes a work of art truly great, and then launches into the hard work of honing her creative skills.  Soft pastel is Sara’s preferred medium because it gives her the flexibility to express the fleeting moments she finds in everyday life.  The pieces specifically painted for The Mill Yard “Oh the Places You’ll Go” exhibit are of everyday kitchen scenes.
“I don’t think I am alone in feeling the kitchen is a favored room at home… In these little vignettes, I hope to evoke memories of tastes, smells, sounds, conversations and more; memories of when we connected with each other; memories of laughter and love.” Email: saraqzhang@gmail.com
.
Tia Keo
Tia Keo has spent much of her life exploring the intersections of art, craft, design and architecture. Growing-up with architect father, David Salmela, meant she developed an artistic approach to engaging with the world from a young age. After graduating with a degree in architecture, she and her husband co-founded Silvercocoon as a means to work on creative projects across disciplines. Several years later she launched her laser cut jewelry collection under the Silvercocoon label with a solo-trunk show in the Walker Art Center shop. In 2017 she received a MN State Arts Board Grant to help her expand her jewelry practice into metal. The grant became a catalyst for creating new metal jewelry, expanding into metal sculpture, and for developing a daily watercolor practice that has exceeded 400 days. A solo exhibition “Three Sixty Five” will feature all the work she generated across disciplines in the span of a year at the American Swedish Institute from June 30 to August 5, 2018.  Web sites:  silvercocoon.com  &  tiakeoart.com
.
The Mill Yard at Stonebridge Lofts

The Mill City. Residents celebrate our area’s industrial heritage of the mighty Mississippi River and the mills. Today, what we see are the most recognizable Minneapolis landmarks. However, this is only part of the story. Rail lines were key to Minneapolis’ growth, and were particularly integral to the Mill District, bringing in wheat and timber and shipping out flour and lumber. We also honor the history of the mills, the reason for the rail yard’s existence. The Mill Yard aims to be both a gathering place for art and artists and a conduit by which art can be shared with and disseminated into the wider community. 

The Mill Yard at Stonebridge Lofts thanks Luke Kleckner, Condo Development and Sales, for his generous sponsorship.

Saturday
Jul072018

Long Awaited Trader Joe’s To Open Friday, July 20

Article and photos by Merle Minda

There she sits: Not deterred by street construction and backed up traffic, Trader Joe’s is almost ready to open in downtown Minneapolis on Friday, July 20th. A pre-opening visit confirms that this will be a big and beautiful store, with a full-length wall of windows facing Washington Avenue that brings in astounding light, wide aisles just begging for browsing customers, and an energized and excited staff.

The new Trader Joe's doesn't seem to mind sharing the neighborhood woes of construction and traffic.

Trader Joe's store manager Melissa Laufer says, "We are thrilled to be here!"Everything is focused on the all-important customer, according to manager of the new store Melissa Laufer. Melissa is a resident of the Twin Cities, having moved here 11 years ago to open Trader Joe’s first Minnesota store in St. Louis Park. Now there are eight Twin Cities stores (and another in Rochester); this new store in downtown Minneapolis will be the ninth.

Located smack on the intersection of Washington and Chicago Avenues, the store is easy to walk, bike or drive to, with a good-sized parking lot - entrance on Chicago. Those cute red carts are already in place just waiting to be used. In addition to a 12,000 square foot grocery, Trader Joe’s also has an attached store for wine, beer and spirits, carrying many of their own beloved brands such as Wine Flower and Mangocini wines, Drive Thru Red Ale and Grand Reserve Chardonnay. And yes, the wine shop will be carrying the famous “two-buck Chuck”, Charles Shaw wines, albeit with a slightly increased price of $2.99.

“We see ourselves as being part of the neighborhood,” says Melissa. “We are so excited to be here and ready to create shopping adventures for our customers.” Walls of the store are dotted with original paintings depicting neighborhood spots – the Stone Arch Bridge, the Viking's Stadium and the Hennepin Avenue Bridge. Melissa was active in choosing these iconic subjects and it is a nice statement of Trader Joe’s commitment to becoming part of this neighborhood.

Original paintings of neighborhood landmarks dot the walls. 

The new Trader Joe’s is just a few blocks from the Stadium in one direction and the same distance from Guthrie Theater in the other.

Most of us are aware that Trader Joe’s has its own approach to the grocery store experience. 80% of their products are private label, manufactured by selected vendors who adhere to their perspective of no GMO’s (genetically modified organisms), no artificial preservatives and lots of organic products. Yet even with these restrictions, their prices fall below standard supermarket entries. My eyes lit on a 32-ounce box of carrot-ginger soup, just $2.99.

Those famous roses and other fresh flowers will be delivered daily, as will all the breads and bakery items. It’s quite an operation – the meat, poultry and fish shelving is empty now, as is the dairy section, waiting to be filled for those first customers. Trader Joe’s is also known for its fresh fruit, with those stanchions also now at the ready. You can prep by checking out www.traderjoes.com.

Unpacking and stocking shelves is well underway.

Interestingly, there is also a special spot for product and food demonstrations, which will happen every day, all day. Opening hours are 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily, with Sunday Wine Shop hours of 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM. The first hour of parking is free with Trader Joe’s validation.

Recently, Chowhound came out with a list of 50 favorite Trader Joe’s items – many of which are new to me and I can’t wait to grab for myself, like Gochujang Almonds, Mango & Sticky Rice Spring Rolls, Midnite Moo Chocolate Syrup, Green Dragon Sauce, Peanut Butter Filled Pretzels and Broccoli Slaw or Kohlrabi Salad. The store and its exciting product array are frankly, so tempting, that one thinks Whole Foods and Lunds & Byerlys will be on their competitive tippy-toes.

Most of our neighborhood folks will be checking out the new store for themselves, so at 8 AM on the morning of the 20th, grab your little red cart and go!

Trader Joe's red carts already lined up for shoppers.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  

About Merle Minda

Journalist and free-lance writer Merle Minda writes about travel, business, people profiles and other subjects for a number of national and regional publications, including Delta SKY, Mpls/St. Paul Magazine, Twin Cities Business, Star Tribune, Twin Cities Statement, Minnesota Monthly, and now Mill City Times. She can be reached at mminda@earthlink.net or TravelOverEasy.com on the web.

Friday
Jul062018

Volunteer for Hennepin County Citizens Review Panel to Help with Complex Child Protection Services

Article by Claudia Kittock

One of the first things I noticed about living in the Mill District was the endless array of fascinating people I met. After 10 years of living here, I am still awed by the people here and the things they do. Vicki Underland-Rosow is one such person.

Vicki was born and raised in Austin, Minnesota, not far from my hometown. We discovered we had much in common, and she has opened my eyes to so many arenas in Minneapolis. I am endlessly indebted to her and the worlds she has opened to me.

Vicki contacted me recently with yet another area of interest. She is a member of the Hennepin County Citizens Review Panel. Citizen Review Panels are mandated by the federal government to provide child welfare programs with organized, sanctioned oversight. All members of the panel are appointed by the governor and serve for 2-year terms. The members of the panel are volunteers who devote their time and creative thinking to help children in the child protection system and their families. It is a huge undertaking (there were over 15,000 reports made to child protection in Hennepin County in 2014).

The work of the panel is to explore ways to help prevent children from being harmed further, and to help families learn to better care for their children. Offering an outside perspective on the internal workings of the child protection system could better safeguard children who have already been abused and neglected. It is also hoped that the panel will find ideas on ways families and communities can work together to better serve children.

While the panel works on many projects, some recent projects have included:

1) Implementation of the Family Assessment Model

2) Recidivism in the child protection system

3) The length of time spent by children in foster care

4) Use of past history in screening child protection reports

5) Recruitment, training and retention of foster and adoptive parents

6) Preventing child abuse and neglect in children ages 0 to 3

There is significant disparity in the numbers of minorities involved in child protection, and the panel is most interested in continued efforts to address the complex issues impacting this disparity. The culminating reports are sent to both the Hennepin County Commissioners and the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

The Citizens Review Panel members meet monthly, learning about the child protection system on a county level and about state statutes governing child protection. Speakers are brought in to educate the panel about new initiatives, staffing patterns, North Star Implementation, Indian Child Welfare Act, implementation of the new Family Assessment Model, etc. In addition to attending monthly meetings, each member will be a part of a small subgroup that chooses and researches a project for the year.

Community volunteers are needed to serve on this panel. Men and women from diverse backgrounds and perspectives who can work together to offer insight into how Hennepin County can better serve children in the child protection system are being sought. If you are interested, or know someone who may be interested, please contact Vicki Underland-Rosow at underlandrosow@gmail.com.

This is important work! We are stronger together, and working to protect children and think differently about the systems that handle this work matters. Please consider volunteering.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

About Claudia Kittock

Claudia is a resident of the Mill District. In addition to writing for Mill City Times, she is a founding Board Member of Friends of the Mill District. Claudia is the author of Health Through Chaos, mentors young adults at YouthLink, and has served on the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA).
.
Contact: claudia@millcitymedia.org

 

 

Friday
Jul062018

2018 Fringe Festival Updates

It's alive!

Explore the line up. Build your schedule. Plan you adventure at minnesotafringe.org.

And for the first time, you can choose between our signature Day Passes -- or purchase admission for a single show.

Because more choice means more adventure!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Wait, what's this whole "single show versus Day Pass" thing?

Yes, it's new! Check out this video guide on this year's Festival admission options.

Grab a single show token for admission at the door -- it's just $10. Plus we guarantee a portion of the house will always be available for walk-up sales.

Like to plan? Great. Advanced reservations are $15.

OR...

Pay one price, and skip the lines for the rest of the day. Get your Fringe Binge on.
 
Weekday Day Passes: $19
Weekend Day Passes: $25

Regardless of your purchase, 70% of your ticket goes directly to the artists whose show(s) you're seeing!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Fringe...with Benefits
 
Be part of the community helping Fringe go round, year-round. Buy now to take advantage of all offerings for the upcoming year. You’ll receive tickets to year-round Fringe programs and performances, a Festival VIP Pass ($220 value) -- good for any any show, any day, at any venue  -- a ticket to Five Fifths, and other goodies.

Learn more, and join now.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

We need YOU to make our Festival Season a success!

Volunteering is a powerful way to support our adventurous artists - while seeing shows for free! Sign up now to help.

Thursday
Jul052018

Water Works Update: Excavation and Masonry Rehabilitation Planned This Fall

An artist's rendering of the "City Steps" section of Water Works

Minor construction work to unearth and preserve historic riverfront remnants may begin soon

Excavation and masonry rehabilitation may begin soon at the future site of Water Works. Construction bids are still under review, but if everything is approved work will begin in July or August 2018. Limited construction is expected to continue through the fall and winter, with more extensive new construction planned for 2019.

First Street South may experience some minor impacts as work progresses on Water Works, but access to adjacent residential properties will be maintained and no closures are anticipated. Construction is not anticipated to impact West River Parkway or the adjacent trail.

Water Works is a park development project overlooking St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge. One of the signature projects in the RiverFirst vision, Water Works will bring visitor services and recreational and cultural amenities to one of Minnesota’s most highly-visited destinations.

Thursday
Jul052018

The Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul presents Lumières Françaises, July 13-19

Lumières Françaises

A week-long film festival celebrating the brightest talent in French language independent cinema presented by the Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul at the St. Anthony Main Theatre.

Lumières Françaises introduces an exciting new generation of rising francophone talent on both sides of the camera, from rebellious comedies to exquisite dramas, and vivid documentaries:

Before Summer Ends - Le Brio - C'est la vie - Fortuna - In Bed with Victoria - Kiss Me! - Orchestra Class - Paris Prestige - See You Up There - Speak Up

Tuesday
Jul032018

MPRB Kicks Off Superintendent Search with Website and Community Listening Events

Via a July 3 e-newsletter from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) has officially begun its search for the next Park Board superintendent. 

Led by local recruiting firm KP Companies, the nationwide search kicked off the with a dedicated website – www.MPRBSuperSearch.com. The website will be a place for Minneapolis residents, park patrons and the public to get the latest updates about the superintendent search process.

Information available on www.MPRBSuperSearch.com includes details about the search process, search-related community surveys and listening events, and other important dates and deadlines.

“The Board of Commissioners is excited to begin the process of finding the next leader of our number one park system,” said MPRB Board President Brad Bourn. “We’re confident we’ll find the best superintendent to continue to build upon our work and create an even more inclusive park system for everyone who calls Minneapolis their home.”

Four community listening events are planned across Minneapolis:

Tuesday, July 10, 6–8pm, Lynnhurst Recreation Center, 1345 W Minnehaha Parkway

Thursday, July 12, 6–8pm, Longfellow Recreation Center, 3435 36th Ave S
Thursday, July 19, 6–8pm, Bottineau Recreation Center, 2000 Second St. NE
Monday, July 23, 10am–Noon, Webber Community Center, 4400 Dupont Ave. N

Applications open July 12. Detailed information about the superintendent position, desired qualifications and the application process will be available on the website on July 12.

Former MPRB Superintendent Jayne Miller left the Park Board in February 2018 to take a position in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Superintendent Emeritus Mary Merrill was selected to act as interim superintendent through October 31, 2018.

Monday
Jul022018

Event Parkway Closures for July 4 and July 14

There will be temporary road closures for the following events:

July 4 - Red, White & Boom 5K, Half Marathon
6am - 12pm
Main Street, West River Parkway, Victory Memorial Parkway, Webber Parkway, Stone Arch Bridge
 
July 4 - Red, White & Boom Fireworks
Various Times
Main St SE from Merriam Ave to 6th Ave SE - 2pm-11pm 
3rd Ave SE from Main St SE to 2nd St SE - 2pm-11pm
West River Pkwy from 4th Ave to 11th Ave - 4:30pm-11pm
3rd Ave S Bridge (Central Ave SE) - 9:15pm-10:30pm
Stone Arch Bridge -  closed to cyclists from 9:30-10:30pm

July 14 - LifeTime Fitness Triathlon
7:30am - 1:00pm
Nokomis Parkway - All Around Lake
Minnehaha Parkway - From Lake Nokomis to Lake Harriet
Lake Harriet Parkway - All Around Lake
Godfrey Pkwy - From Minnehaha Pkwy to West River Pkwy
West River Parkway - From Godfrey to S 4th St

Sunday
Jul012018

Scenes for the June 30 Mill City Farmers Market

Shoppers met three new vendors at June 30 Mill City Farmers Market: St. Pops, Gohan Sushi and Onkkafirte (featuring the Spin'N'Serve).

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers MarketSt. Pops are naturally sweetened, free of dairy, gluten, soy and nuts, and very refreshing!

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers MarketKou Kue working on a Tuna Poke order.

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers MarketBeautifully crafted Spin'N'Serves by Dan Onkka of Onkkafirte

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

Congratulations to Therese Moore of 3 Bears Oats, whose pre-made steel cut artisan oatmeal meals will now be stocked in the freezer section of Lakewinds Food Co-op (a Mill City Farmers Market sponsor).

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

Milly the goat! :)

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market 

Sunday
Jul012018

Mill City Singers' 2017-18 Season Recap

Article by Claudia Kittock

Photo credit: Ryan Ojard

What a season! The Mill City Singers' 2017-18 season surpassed every goal we set. It has been a year of singing with both old and new friends and in new venues. One of the magical things about this group is that new singers joined us at every one of the 30 rehearsals we had. Every rehearsal...think about that. It has also been fascinating to ask newcomers how they happened to join our community. The answers are always surprising. They range from "I read about it on Facebook" to a young couple sightseeing at the Guthrie being approached by a Singer who asked them if they liked to sing. Each of them is now firmly ensconced in the group.

We rehearsed for 30 Saturdays throughout the year. Our rehearsals are held at the Guthrie in a rehearsal room on the 8th floor, from 2:00-3:30pm. Everyone is welcome, and attendance is not recorded. We understand adults live real lives with real complications, so people are encouraged to come when they can. Everyone is welcome to every rehearsal.

The Singers were founded by and supported by the Friends of the Mill District charity.  Every project supported by the Friends is free to participants. We know that the only way to remove barriers...is to remove barriers, so money is never a consideration. The Friends raise the money to pay for the salaries of JD and Fred Steele through grants and donations from our generous group of donors. We are blessed with a neighborhood of friends who offer us financial support, an MRAC grant, and a charity that provides all the supportive work on a voluntary basis.

Our season began with rehearsals on September 9th. The first performance was at the Capri Theater on October 17th. If you have never been to the Capri, you have a treat coming. It is a wonderful venue on North Broadway. A restored movie theater that has now become a performance venue, the Capri is always filled to capacity and by the end of the evening, the entire audience is on their feet clapping and singing with all of us. The Capri concerts also include the Capri Glee and the MacPhail Youth Community Choir. We perform separately and then end the evening all onstage singing together.

We also discovered this group loves to party. At least twice a year, Rick and Claudia Kittock host a choir party. It is the easiest party possible. We open the doors, and a party breaks out. Everyone brings a dish to pass and a beverage of choice and that's it. We laugh, we hug, we laugh some more, we tell stories, and then we hug ‘goodbye’. To say "a good time was had by all" is an underestimate for this group.

Caroling for Winterfest, sponsored by the Friends of the Mill District, has becoming another annual event. We did that on December 2nd, and loved walking our beloved Mill District singing at the top of our voices.  People coming into the Guthrie to see A Christmas Carol joined in, honked as they drove, and some even stopped to ask who we were and where did we come from!

January is our hiatus month. It is a good time for a break for travel and/or recovery from the holidays. We have also found that as the month of January progresses, we all miss the Singers more with every passing day and the return in February is joyful and exciting.

In March, we were thrilled to perform in the Target Atrium of Orchestra Hall. The Singers were invited to become community partners with the Orchestra and were able to sing on two nights in March. Led by the magical JD and accompanied by the incredibly talented Fred, the audience grew and grew until people were spilling into the hallways. Part of this program is that each singer received a ticket for the Orchestra event on one of the evenings we sang. What a thrill! We had a wonderful time, yet again.

May and June were incredibly busy. We sang at the Capri Theater again, had another Singer party, and added performances at the Loring Park Music Festival, the Twins game (singing Take Me Out to the Ballgame), and ending the year with a moving performance at the Ordway. The Ordway event, Epilogue, was an evening of speakers, videos and music by the Singers all around the theme of the Vietnam War. We sang Glory, You’ve Got a Friend, Turn, Turn, Turn and Let It Be.

If all of this sounds too good to be true, come find out. Our new season begins on September 15th, with our first performance at CedarFest on September 16th. You read that right! It should be great fun on an outdoor stage next to The Cedar. Interested? Contact Claudia Kittock at cjkittock@gmail.com. I don’t think you want to miss the chance to make music with friends and neighbors. 

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

About Claudia Kittock

Claudia is a resident of the Mill District. In addition to writing for Mill City Times, she is a founding Board Member of Friends of the Mill District. Claudia is the author of Health Through Chaos, mentors young adults at YouthLink, and has served on the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA).
.
Contact: claudia@millcitymedia.org

 

Sunday
Jul012018

Something you don't see every day...

...a car meticulously lined with wine corks.

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

June 30, 2018 Mill City Farmers Market

Saturday
Jun302018

Thousands of Convention Visitors Bring Money and Increased Tax Revenue to Minneapolis this Summer

Via a Press Release from Meet Minneapolis:

The Minneapolis Convention Center is going to be the center of activity in downtown Minneapolis this summer, with more than 25,000 visitors attending three upcoming conventions, starting at the end of this week. The National Education Association (NEA) will hold its Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly beginning June 30, followed by the American Legion’s 100th National Convention starting August 23, and culminating with the National Baptist Convention, USA, starting Labor Day weekend.

Cumulatively, these three conventions represent 65,000 room nights for local hotels this summer, bringing additional money and tax revenue to the local economy. These events add to what is shaping up to be a banner year for the Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC). As of June 30, the MCC will have hosted 195 events for the year including Super Bowl-related events, and is currently on pace to exceed its goal of securing $20 million in revenue for the year.

By the Numbers:

National Education Association’s Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly

  • June 30 – July 5
  • Expecting more than 7,500 attendees and exhibitors
  • More than 40,000 room nights in the greater Minneapolis area

American Legion 2018 National Convention

  • August 23 – August 29
  • More than 9,500 attendees and exhibitors expected
  • Approximately 15,000 room nights in Minneapolis

National Baptist Convention USA, Inc.

  • September 2 – September 7
  • An estimated 8,000 attendees and exhibitors
  • More than 10,000 room nights in Minneapolis

“Those outside of our industry might have anticipated a letdown in our business levels after Super Bowl LII.  Nothing could be further from the truth,” said Meet Minneapolis President and CEO, Melvin Tennant. “Thanks to the sales and marketing groundwork laid by our team and our community partners, we have a bevy of diverse events set for the rest of 2018 that will allow us to sustain our strong start to the year.  That’s good news for our local economy and the more than 36,000 individuals working in the travel and hospitality industry in Minneapolis.”

Another highlight for 2018 will be in the fourth quarter when the MCC hosts nearly 6,000 women engineers for the Society of Women Engineers’ 2018 Annual Conference in October. In all, Meet Minneapolis will bring well over 600 events to the city and region this year, including more than 300 events to the MCC.

ABOUT MEET MINNEAPOLIS

Meet Minneapolis is a private, not-for-profit, member-based association. It actively promotes and sells the Minneapolis area as a destination for conventions and meetings, works to maximize the visitor experience and markets the city as a desirable tourist destination to maximize the economic benefit to the greater Minneapolis area.

Anticipated attendance numbers are provided by partner organizations and are subject to adjustment based on meeting planner projections and post event results.  Forecasted room night numbers reflect historical averages of room nights for the meeting or event.

Meet Minneapolis is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) of Destinations International.

CONNECT WITH US

Onlinedeals and exclusive experiencesFacebookTwitter, Instagram

Thursday
Jun282018

2040 Transportation Policy Plan Update Released for Public Comment

Via a June 28 e-newsletter from the Metropolitan Council: 

The Metropolitan Council is now taking public comment on the draft update to the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan (TPP).  On Wednesday, the Council voted to release the draft plan for public comment. Since it was adopted in 2015, new investment decisions and work have been incorporated into the plan to reflect the current landscape of regional transportation.

“I look forward to feedback from people all across the region,” said Council Chair Alene Tchourumoff. “This update is the result of many months of collaboration with the elected officials who sit on the Transportation Advisory Board, the community members who volunteer their time on advisory boards, and the technical experts from our partner organizations and here at the Council. As we look to the future, our shared prosperity comes from having a shared roadmap – this plan reflects how we build a transportation system that connects our region.”

Regional system keeps growing, population mobile and connected

Population is growing throughout the region – especially in communities with major transit investments. Reliable, safe and efficient ways of getting from one point to another is a necessity. Whether driving, busing, biking, walking, or taking light rail, people need a transportation system that allows them to remain connected and reach destinations.

Many elements factor into developing and implementing a regional transportation system. The Council plays a substantial role in planning and identifying needed investments for that system, as well as  coordinating with partners across the region to build transportation options that benefit everyone.

Required by both state and federal law, the current 2040 Transportation Policy Plan serves as a blueprint for growth and establishes key transportation goals that are guided by Thrive MSP 2040, the Council’s regional policy framework.

Federal law requires that the Council update the TPP every four years. This update has been a collaborative effort between the Council, state and regional agencies, and local governments, along with the people of the region.

Focus on safety, cost-efficiency and maintaining/enhancing current infrastructure

This update continues to focus on cost-efficient and safe transportation investments that maintain our roads, bridges and transit system, and that will meet transportation needs now and into the future. At the same time, the plan emphasizes multimodal options across the region and how those modes can be strategically aligned with land use.

The TPP update highlights the Council’s work to move towards the regional outcomes found in Thrive MSP 2040 as they relate to transportation. These outcomes include: stewardship, prosperity, equity, livability and sustainability. Highlights of the update are:

  • Updating fiscal projections for the highway and transit systems
  • Including new major highway and transit investments that have received funding
  • Identifying performance measures that will guide investment
  • Addressing new and emerging trends in transportation, like autonomous vehicles and shared mobility systems
  • New investments for major highway projects and transitways
  • Results of recent transportation planning studies, like the Regional Truck Freight Corridor study

Get involved; comment period open til Aug. 13

The Council is ready to hear from you. Public comment will be received until 5 p.m., Monday, August 13.  To comment:

More information on the draft update to the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan and how to participate in the public comment period.

The Council will make revisions after the public comment period and release the final TPP update later this year. 

The Metropolitan Council is now taking public comment on the draft update to the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan (TPP). On Wednesday, the Council voted to release the draft plan for public comment. Since it was adopted in 2015, new investment decisions and work have been incorporated into the plan to reflect the current landscape of regional transportation.

“I look forward to feedback from people all across the region,” said Council Chair Alene Tchourumoff. “This update is the result of many months of collaboration with the elected officials who sit on the Transportation Advisory Board, the community members who volunteer their time on advisory boards, and the technical experts from our partner organizations and here at the Council. As we look to the future, our shared prosperity comes from having a shared roadmap – this plan reflects how we build a transportation system that connects our region.”

Regional system keeps growing, population mobile and connected

Population is growing throughout the region – especially in communities with major transit investments. Reliable, safe and efficient ways of getting from one point to another is a necessity. Whether driving, busing, biking, walking, or taking light rail, people need a transportation system that allows them to remain connected and reach destinations.

Many elements factor into developing and implementing a regional transportation system. The Council plays a substantial role in planning and identifying needed investments for that system, as well as coordinating with partners across the region to build transportation options that benefit everyone.

Required by both state and federal law, the current 2040 Transportation Policy Plan serves as a blueprint for growth and establishes key transportation goals that are guided by Thrive MSP 2040, the Council’s regional policy framework.

Federal law requires that the Council update the TPP every four years. This update has been a collaborative effort between the Council, state and regional agencies, and local governments, along with the people of the region.

Focus on safety, cost-efficiency and maintaining/enhancing current infrastructure

This update continues to focus on cost-efficient and safe transportation investments that maintain our roads, bridges and transit system, and that will meet transportation needs now and into the future. At the same time, the plan emphasizes multimodal options across the region and how those modes can be strategically aligned with land use.

The TPP update highlights the Council’s work to move towards the regional outcomes found in Thrive MSP 2040 as they relate to transportation. These outcomes include: stewardship, prosperity, equity, livability and sustainability. Highlights of the update are:

  • Updating fiscal projections for the highway and transit systems
  • Including new major highway and transit investments that have received funding
  • Identifying performance measures that will guide investment
  • Addressing new and emerging trends in transportation, like autonomous vehicles and shared mobility systems
  • New investments for major highway projects and transitways
  • Results of recent transportation planning studies, like the Regional Truck Freight Corridor study

Get involved; comment period open until Aug. 13

The Council is ready to hear from you. Public comment will be received until 5 p.m., Monday, August 13.  To comment:

More information on the draft update to the 2040 Transportation Policy Plan and how to participate in the public comment period.

The Council will make revisions after the public comment period and release the final TPP update later this year.

Thursday
Jun282018

Celebrate the 4th of July at Annual Red, White and Boom

Mill Ruins Park fireworks

Celebrate the Fourth of July during Minneapolis' Red, White and Boom, a celebration hosted by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. The event, held along the downtown Minneapolis Riverfront, features live music, great food, fun activities for the whole family, and the grand finale – fireworks!

On Wednesday, July 4, Father Hennepin Bluff Park will offer FREE family activities in the Family Fun Zone, 6–9:30 pm including balloon twisters, caricature artists, hair painters and face painters. Bands performing this year include:

Father Hennepin Bluff Park
6–7:30 pm Tre Aaron
8-10 pm  Funktion Junction

Mill Ruins Park
6–10 pm DJ music from Superbrush427

The Red, White and Boom Celebration closes with a spectacular fireworks display along the Riverfront at 10 pm. For more information please go to www.mplsredwhiteboom.com.

If interested in being a sponsor or donating to the Minneapolis Fireworks Fund, please call Erica Chua at 612-230-6479.