Sign up to be a Doors Open Minneapolis Volunteer Greeter!

Open Doors Minneapolis Returns May 18 and 19, and volunteers are needed!

As a volunteer, you will assist in executing Doors Open Minneapolis in 2024. Doors Open Minneapolis is a weekend-long event that gives the public a chance to explore the buildings that tell our city’s story. From theaters to business hubs, sacred spaces to private clubs, sports complexes to engineering wonders, historical gems to not-even-open-yet buildings, Doors Open Minneapolis will give visitors a free behind-the-scenes look at dozens of exciting venues. Your role as a Greeter Volunteer will make this event function smoothly and easily.

Volunteers are stationed at one of several venues within the city of Minneapolis. The time commitment is a minimum of 4 hours on either Saturday May 18 or Sunday May 19, between the hours of 9:30am and 5:30pm.

Responsibilities: 

• Welcome Doors Open Minneapolis attendees to the venue and count them as they enter. 

• Encourage attendees to register for Doors Open Minneapolis. Attendees will register via a mobile QR code or weblink and will be entered in a raffle to win prizes. Distribute stickers to attendees. Assist with flow of foot traffic. Answer general questions about the event. 

• Attend one mandatory volunteer information session in late April/early May. Multiple sessions (in-person and virtual) will be scheduled for your convenience. 

Details: 

• Doors Open Minneapolis will take place 10am – 5pm on May 18 & 19, 2024. Dozens of venues (businesses & buildings) are anticipated to participate. 

• Two volunteers will be stationed at each venue for the duration of the event's operating hours.  

• Greeter Volunteers will sign up for one or more 4-hour shifts. Shifts are 9:30 am - 1:30 pm and 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm. 

• Rethos is the coordinating entity for Doors Open Minneapolis, but works with the City of Minneapolis, American Institute of Architects, and many more local partners to produce this event. 

Benefits: 

• You will receive a pass that allows you priority access at venues, allowing you to skip venue lines for the duration of the event. 

• You will receive a free Doors Open Minneapolis t-shirt. 

• You get to choose the venue you volunteer at, and you can sign up with a friend. 

• You will be invited to a post-event volunteer appreciation party that includes food and beverage.

Volunteer!

Small Business Spotlight: Meteor

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Interior of Meteor

Meteor was recently nominated for a James Beard Award. We talked to co-owner Robert Jones about what the nomination means for the business, the interesting backstory to the bar’s name and their approach to creating inspiring and memorable cocktails. The business is located at 2027 N 2nd Street. Visit them and see why their tag line is “Meteor is an old ass bar with good ass drinks.”

Q:  How does it feel to be nominated for a James Beard Award, and what does it mean to you and your team, personally and professionally?

A:  It was an incredible surprise. I never thought that this would be the bar that would garner that type of recognition. It’s incredibly gratifying personally after working so hard in this industry for the last 20 years. My team is elated, they're really the soul behind the bar, I’m so happy to be able to share this experience with them.

Q:  Why did you name your bar Meteor?

A:  We named it Meteor after a deep dive into the story behind the neighborhood we’re in. We’re in the Hawthorne neighborhood of Minneapolis, named for Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of The Scarlet Letter. The Scarlet Letter is full of symbolism, and the midway and in most transitional point of the story a Meteor appears. Opening the bar was a point of transition for us at the time, so it felt appropriate. Meteor is also a word that just feels nice to say. Hawthorne would be a great name for a bar for a number of reasons, but it already exists out east.

Q:  Can you tell us about one of your signature cocktails and the inspiration behind it?

A:  We’ve had a lot of great cocktails on the menu. Our team draws inspiration from travel, memories and sometimes just passion for a specific ingredient. Our most popular cocktail is the Secret Tiger. It was inspired by my trips to Mexico, and named for a secret bit of tiger carpet that we kept on the wall when we were doing our remodel.

Q:  How do you balance innovation with creating drinks that appeal to a wide audience?

A:  We try to balance our menu and include something for everyone's palate. We might take an unfamiliar ingredient but then surround it with flavors that are less challenging and more familiar. We always appreciate it when people ask questions, because there’s a lot of interesting new things to work with, and it’s hard to keep up on everything!

Ask your bartender about whiskey!

Additive-free tequilas

Q:  Are there any particular ingredients or techniques you find especially exciting or challenging to work with?

A:  I’m still passionate about Mexican spirits in general. They vary so much from bottle to bottle and style to style.

Q:  What drink should we try if we’re a newcomer to Meteor, and why?

A:  I think the best way to order anything anywhere new is to have a conversation with your bartender or whoever is guiding you through your experience. Hopefully we can get you to a place where you’re confident and happy with what you order.

Q:  What role does ambiance and atmosphere play in the Meteor’s success?

A:  Meteor is just a bar. It’s great for that reason alone. We made a bar that is approachable to everyone. We try to remove a little of the pretentiousness of the fancy cocktail world out of what we do. It’s a place where you should be comfortable ordering a beer and a shot, or a perfect daiquiri or martini.

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  We’re on that gram: @meteor_mpls

First Avenue N Street Reconstruction Project Kickoff and Survey

Excerpt from the May 7 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Changes are coming to downtown Minneapolis along the First Avenue N corridor.

The Minneapolis Public Works Department is reconstructing half a mile of First Avenue North between Washington Avenue and Eighth Street North in 2028. The project will include a range of right-of-way and public realm improvements that would make it easier for people to move safely and comfortably along the street.

Some of the project goals include:

• Expanded, ADA-compliant sidewalks and safer street crossings.
• New green stormwater infrastructure and sustainable landscaping.
• Enhanced streetscape elements, including improved lighting and public art.
• Active public spaces that attract and retain residents, businesses, and visitors.

The project also gives the opportunity to improve traffic signals, signs and underground utilities along the route.

Survey

Take our short survey to tell us what you envision for First Avenue North. Your input will help us design a street that serves your needs and desires.

Learn more about the project and how to stay up to date on more ways to participate in the planning and engagement process. 

Bourbon Buyout Returns to the Nicollet Island Inn March 20

For one night only, Nicollet Island Inn opens up their impressive collection of rare and allocated whiskeys and bourbons for a special whiskey-lovers tasting event.

Back by very popular demand is the Nicollet Island Inn's Bourbon Buyout, to be held Wednesday, March 20th beginning at 5p. General Manager Corey Abdo will again close down the Inn for the evening to welcome whiskey-lovers. Executive Chef Michael Rain will prepare a sumptuous buffet with dishes complementing bourbon's distinctive flavor accents.

• Guests will enjoy tasting pours from labels and vintages that aren’t available at any other Twin Cities venue, expertly paired with cuisine crafted to complement every delicious note and flavor accent. 

• Complimentary beer and wine will be available throughout the evening as well as run-of-the-bar selections to cleanse your palette between premium tastings. 

• And if that wasn’t enough, throughout the evening there will be random drawings and giveaways of selected bottles and merchandise! 

• Worried about being in a room full of premium bourbon and then having to drive home? No problem! A limited number of guest rooms are available so you can celebrate with vigor until you fall into bed without ever having to leave the property. 

Tickets for this special event are $180 per guest and include:

 

• 12 1/2 oz. liquor pours, including 4 rare/allocated pours and 8 run-of-the-bar pours.
• Chef’s buffet (unlimited); buffet service, dishes paired with whiskey selections.
• Select beer and wine available through the evening (unlimited).

 

Tickets

Great River Coalition Announces 9th Annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Clean Up, April 20

Celebrating Earth Day and promoting pollinator awareness

The Great River Coalition announces its 9th annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup at Boom Island Park in Minneapolis on Saturday, April 20 from 9am to 12pm. The event features a family and dog-friendly fun run/walk, river cleanup, and Earth Day festivities to support efforts to protect pollinators and their habitat. 

Since 2017, the Great River Coalition has been raising funds for pollinator plantings along the Mississippi River and building awareness about the importance of protecting and saving our pollinators due to climate and environmental changes. Native pollinators, including the federally endangered Rusty Patched Bumblebee and other wild bees, continue to desperately need our help.

The Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup is hosted by the Great River Coalition, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, the National Park Service, and Mill City Running/Saint City Running.

The 5K course traverses through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area - the only national park offering scenic views of the Mississippi River. Following the 5K, participants will be able to take part in an organized river cleanup and enjoy festivities including live music and entertainment, prizes, games for kids, educational activities, and more. Photo ops will include a bee-themed selfie station, notable appearances, and mascots.

Bee and pollinator-themed costumes are highly encouraged! Prizes for the best costumes will be awarded. All are encouraged to participate in the event to help save our bees and other important pollinators.

Photo: Great River Coalition

“Great River Coalition is working to expand the habitat for our pollinators,” said Board President Diane Hofstede. “If you walk along our Minneapolis riverfront, or travel around the state, you’ll see the limited food resources that sustain our pollinators as they travel along the Mississippi River. The erosion created by the lack of grasslands contributes to soil and water pollution, and encourages invasive species. The Rusty Patch Bumble Bee, Minnesota’s state bumblebee, is critically endangered. We aim to bring awareness to the vital role pollinators play in the health of our riverfront communities, our state, and our planet.”

Event Details:

PRICE: $40 in advance, $45 on Race Day. Free for kid’s race (ages 6 and under) and River Clean Up. Includes family-friendly activities and a celebration of Earth Day.

LOCATION: Boom Island Park, 724 Sibley Street NE

The 5K will start promptly at 9am. A free kids race, with goodie bags, will begin at 8:30am - children must be age 6 or under and must be registered before the event, either online or in-person. The River Clean Up begins at 9:30am. Volunteers should also register online before the event. This activity is free.

PRIZES:

• HD Flat Screen Smart TV
• Two tickets to US Bank Stadium, Row 12, End Seats, Seats 16, 17, 18, & 19, (End Zone, Facing Minneapolis, value $600 +) and more!
• Costumes are welcome. Prizes for the best! Name your team!

Registration and packet, T-shirt pick-up: Friday, April 19, Mill City Running, 411 East Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55414. Registered participants will enjoy a 20% discount on Mill City Running and Saint City Running purchases, April 19 – 21. Learn more and register at greatrivercoalition.com/2024-beerunwalkcleanup. 

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The Great River Coalition are change agents and advocates for policies and initiatives that honor the historic, commercial, environmental, and spiritual significance of the Mississippi River. To carry out its mission, the Great River Coalition collaborates with local businesses, organizations, and government agencies to engage, educate, and plant pollinator plantings in our communities. For 9 years the Earth Day 5K Bee Run Walk and River Clean Up has brought thousands of people, built awareness, education and interaction with our Mississippi Riverfront partners, local and National groups. Testifying at public hearings, publishing comments of local, State and Regional significance regarding riverfront impacts, and building relationships are just a few of the ways which the Great River Coalition members and partners take action. As a member-supported 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, the Great River Coalition relies wholly on support from members, donors, volunteers, and sponsors. Learn more at greatrivercoalition.com. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Small Business Spotlight: 801 Fish

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Chef Kirkland

A Discussion with Executive Chef Lawrence Kirkland

Craving delicious seafood in a mind-blowing beautiful atmosphere? Make your way to 801 Fish at 800 Nicollet Mall. We talked to Chef Lawrence Kirkland about his journey to heading up the team at 801 Fish, the various menu choices the restaurant offers and the upscale dining experience awaiting you. Try the Lobster Fried Rice – delicious! 

Q:  Congratulations on the opening of 801 Fish! This isn’t your first time as a seafood chef. Could you tell us the culinary journey that led you to 801 Fish? 

A:  My culinary journey started in Tucson, Arizona. I enrolled in a vocational class at my high school called Food and Hospitality - I was immediately hooked on the culture and atmosphere and decided, “This is what I wanted to do moving forward." I attended culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu in Scottsdale and shortly after graduating landed my first job at the JW Marriott in Starr Pass. This was a beautiful Golf resort that gave me my first exposure of high volume and the different titles and roles in the kitchen. From there I decided it was time to leave Arizona, so I packed all my things and drove up to Seattle to start a new endeavor in, what was to me, a foreign city. Once in Seattle I started working at the Hyatt Regency and expanded my knowledge of banquets, catering and events.

After being in Seattle for a short while, I connected with a family friend who happened to play football for the Seattle Seahawks and was interested in changing his eating habits for the better. He offered me a full-time position and a ticket to Detroit after he was suddenly traded to a different team. From here I started a personal chef business named The Taste of Victory, where I prepared meals for athletes and their families for about the next three years. I got the itch to get back into commercial kitchens and was convinced to move to Minneapolis where I eventually found The Oceanaire. Over the next 8 years I moved around with the company to multiple locations, holding various positions until hearing about a grand opportunity to work for the 801 Restaurants group!

801 Fish is located at 800 Nicollet Mall

Q:  That is quite a journey, and it shows your depth of experience in the food industry. Let’s now move to your current Executive Chef position. How would you describe the culinary style and theme of the seafood dishes at 801 Fish?

A:  I describe my style as bold and refined. Bold in reference to the flavor profiles and seasoning used. You will find a heavy Asian, Mexican, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences within our dishes. Refined in our way of taking simple ideas and ingredients and presenting them in an elevated way that is interesting and approachable.

Q:  How did you approach the menu development, especially when it comes to creating a balance of flavors and textures in seafood dishes, taking into account our Midwestern palates?

A:  I approach menu development simply by finding dishes that traditionally lend themselves well to seafood. We have a lot of diverse Midwestern palates on our chef team, so tending to our local palate was easy.  Check out our menu here.

Lobster Roll

Steamed Mussels

Q:  801 Fish's interior is gorgeous - what kind of dining experience do you aim to create for customers in terms of ambiance and service?

A:  We aim for an upscale dining experience from start to finish. We understand there are other options, but our commitment to excellence in service and use of ultra-fresh ingredients is what sets us apart from most.

Q:  What is your personal favorite seafood dish, and will it be featured on the menu?

A:  I personally love to eat whole fish any time I can. I feel that keeping the bones and body attached during the cooking process really fortifies the fresh fish flavor in the finished product. We like to feature at least 2 types of whole fish on our menu at any given time.

Q:  I must return for the whole fish – you’ve convinced me. How may we stay up to date with news of 801 Fish?   

A: Please follow us on Instagram @801Fishmsp. Come visit us too!

Nicollet Island-East Bank Neighborhood Association Announces 2 Community Events

Spring is nearly here and the Nicollet Island East Bank Neighborhood Association (NIEBNA) is eager to gather with neighbors for two fresh air events.

Event 1 - Neighborhood Safety Walking Groups will be kicking off soon. Please click this link to express your interest and sign up: www.NIEBNA.org/walking_group_signup.

Event 2 - Join the Earth Day Clean Up event on Saturday, April 20 from 9:30am-Noon. Three locations to choose from: Chute Square, Father Hennepin Bluff Park and Nicollet Island Trails. Please sign up at https://www.niebna.org/earth_day_2024

Follow NIEBNA on Instagram and Facebook.

May 9: Meet and Greet for 5th District Congressional Candidate Don Samuels

Hennepin Healthcare Foundation's Adventurama 2024 set for June 8

Join the adventure Saturday, June 8, 9:30am-12:30pm - Start and Finish in Commons Park

It's back! After a successful launch in 2023, Hennepin Healthcare Foundation returns with Adventurama 2024, an urban experience in downtown Minneapolis. This fundraiser invites teams of two adults to complete challenges within a three-mile loop of HCMC. Teams earn points by completing both mental and physical challenges at 10 pit stops. This is not a timed course - you go at your own pace and complete as many challenges as you like. Based on feedback from last year's event, they are elevating the challenges while bringing back favorites.

All proceeds from this event support patient comfort and care at Hennepin Healthcare. In addition to your team registration, you're invited to create your own fundraising campaign and digital profile using Funraise. From there, you can share your page with family and friends via email or social media.

For 130 years and counting, Hennepin Healthcare has been a fixture in downtown Minneapolis serving the community, and their doors are open to all who need care. Count on them to lead during disasters, through pandemics, heart attacks and trauma.

Weisman Art Museum presents The Other Four - a Multi-sensory Show

Article and photos by Becky Fillinger

Wendy Fernstrum, Common Scents

Are you ready for something totally different in a museum experience? The Weisman Art Museum (WAM) recently opened The Other Four - it’s an exhibit of multimedia works by avant-garde artists that explores touch, taste, smell and sound – the underutilized senses in art appreciation. That’s right – you can touch these artworks!

The sensory symphony was curated by John Schuerman, a Twin Cities-based artist and independent curator. The first exhibition of the show was at The Plains Museum in Fargo, ND in 2019, where it was well received. The pandemic postponed the exhibit until now at the Weisman.

Yevgeniya Kaganovich pieces

Schuerman notes that it isn’t easy to stage a multi-sensory show – it is difficult to install and by its very nature, it breaks the rules of the gallery, such as no organic matter in the galleries. (One of the pieces is a reimagining of an airline service where you may eat pretzels and biscotti.)

Schuerman with Alison Hiltner's TethersSchuerman worked on the show for a decade. He had been thinking about the one-dimensionality of museum visual expressions for a while and wanted to try something more expressive and immersive – artworks primarily experienced through the other four senses. He notes that visual art appreciation maps heavily to the prefrontal cortex. Scientists are discovering that creative moments may require the prefrontal cortex to be shut down – let the mind wander – which can lead to innovative and imaginative outcomes when senses other than vision become more dominant. Visitors can run their fingers across surfaces, breaking the traditional "look but don't touch" barrier. Vibrating sounds, fragrances and aromas are integrated into the installations, enhancing the overall sensory experience. You can actually wear some of the artworks!

Diane Mullin, Senior Curator at WAM, told us that the museum is thrilled to showcase this exhibit which has something for everybody. She invites the community to come to the museum and experience art in very different ways.

There are QR codes that provide an introduction to the exhibit and at each piece that provide a guide to the visitor. Schuerman hopes that the visitor will engage with the pieces with a sense of playfulness.

I had several reactions to the immersive exhibit – from delight to puzzlement - but what I liked best was the mingling of senses, seeing colors in scents, feeling textures in sound. 

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The Other Four will be on display until May 19.

The Mill District Welcomes Klassics Kitchen + Cocktails

Gerard and Brittney Klass, Klassics Kitchen + Cocktails, 428 S 2nd Street

Gerard and Brittney Klass launch full-service restaurant, Klassics Kitchen + Cocktails, in the Mill District

Chef Gerard Klass, a Guyanese American deeply rooted in Minneapolis' vibrant hospitality scene, has embarked on the next leg of his culinary journey with the launch of Klassics Kitchen + Cocktails. This full-service restaurant has been seven years in the making and is located in the former Smith & Porter Restaurant space.

"Minneapolis has been my home, my inspiration, and my canvas for culinary creativity. The unwavering support and encouragement from this community have been instrumental in shaping my culinary journey, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to share my passion with you all."  Chef Gerard

Bahn Mi Lettuce Wraps

Drawing inspiration from his diverse cultural background and extensive travels, Chef Gerard promises Klassics Kitchen + Cocktails will be a vibrant tapestry of flavors: “The menu is my food sermon, a masterful blend of tradition and innovation, crafted with love and care to tantalize the senses and ignite culinary curiosity."

Brittney and Gerard Klass also own C.R.E.A.M. Cafe (next door to Klassics Kitchen) and Soul Bowl, which operates in Graze Food Hall, U.S. Bank Stadium, Target Field, Target Center and the Minnesota State Fair. They are also co-partners in The Camden Social. They extend a heartfelt invitation to the Minneapolis community to experience the warmth, hospitality, and culinary excellence that await them!

Pangea World Theater presents Hecuba at The Southern Theater, April 5 - 21

Pangea World Theater presents Hecuba

April 5 - 21 at The Southern Theater

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Pangea World Theater presents Hecuba by Marina Carr, a compelling reimagining of the aftermath of the Fall of Troy, on stage at The Southern Theater in Minneapolis, April 5 – 21, 2024. Ticket info

Hecuba follows Agamemnon, the victor, as he locks horns with Hecuba, the vanquished queen. Both have suffered intimate loss — the sacrifice of a daughter and the murder of a son. In Marina Carr’s bold engagement with Euripides’ play of the same name written c. 424 BC ("the most intensely tragic of all poets" — Aristotle) there’s a demand for further bloodshed. In a brilliant display of ventriloquism, the drama weaves threads of inconsolable rage and grief with fate, revenge, and inevitable carnage. The show explores the shreds of duty and honor as well as the terrible deeds hatred breeds as it touches bravely on Hecuba’s heroic nature and “the endless tears of women.”

The Hecuba ensemble includes Suzanne Victoria Cross, Ankita Ashrit, Anne Guadagnino, Matthew Saxe, Ernest Briggs, Tyler Stamm, J. Antonio Teodro, Nathan Berglund, and Neel Shah.

Director Dipankar Mukherjee’s artistic team features lighting design by Mike Grogan, set design by Orin Herfindal, costume design by Mary Ann Kelling, composition, live music and sound design by Bethany Lacktorin, assistant direction by Sir Curtis Kirby III, with stage management by Cassi Henning.

“As artists in Pangea, we are in search of understanding the complexity of the time we live in,” said Pangea’s Artistic Director Dipankar Mukherjee. “Marina Carr’s adaptation of Hecuba opens one portal to our current truth. Mythology holds many answers and many secrets. Myth is the repository of truths, both spoken and unspoken. It is up to us to learn from them. In our search for collective accountability, moments are marked when our conscience is put on trial, as during the current moment. This can be covered up with the dust of rhetoric, but the truth never fails to stare at our face. Hecuba asks us, "Can we salvage our humanity when women and children’s bodies are weaponized in the name of war anywhere in the world?”

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. 

About the Playwright

Marina Carr is an Irish playwright who has written nearly 30 plays. She came to notoriety in the 1990s and is known for writing intense and often dark plays, and for being a particularly prolific and skillful voice in Irish drama. She often writes about human tragedy, and her work often takes its inspiration from classical texts.

Carr was born in County Offaly to an artistic family and was educated at University College Dublin. In addition to Hecuba, her works include a take on Lorca's Blood Wedding, an adaptation of Anna Karenina, By the Bog of Cats, The Map of Argentina, Phaedra Backwards, Portia Coughlan, The Mai, Ullaloo, This Love Thing, and The Deer Surrender.

Carr often writes about disturbing situations and unsympathetic characters. When a revival of her play On Raftery's Hill received backlash for depicting a scene of incestuous rape, Carr told The Guardian, "The moral police will be the death of art. Political correctness is destroying our literature and our poetry. There is a place for the moral high ground, but it is not art. You can't have the thought police looking over your shoulder when you are writing a play. You have to let the characters have their say. Plays are written with the imagination, not with the head."

She has been Writer-in-Residence at Trinity College, the Abbey Theatre, Princeton University and was the first John McGahern Writer-in-Residence in St. Patrick’s College, Drumcondra/DCU. Marina Carr is a member of Aosdána and lives with her family in Dublin.

May 4 Symphony Ball 2024: River Rapsody - a Gala Supporting the Minnesota Orchestra

Symphony Ball 2024, River Rhapsody, is a celebration of the soul-nourishing, life-giving currents that flow through all of us - music and water - from the Northwoods to Louisiana Bayou Country. Join fellow music lovers on May 4 to support the Orchestra’s artistic and educational missions and revel in the traditions — from music to food - the River inspires.

Experience an exquisite river-themed concert of glorious orchestral classics performed by the Minnesota Orchestra, conducted by new Music Director Thomas Søndergård.

Cap off the night at the festive after-party at Orchestra Hall with gourmet desserts, savory bites and signature cocktails. And, if that weren't enough, dance the night away with a set list curated by special guest musicians. It's a river soiree! Dance, indulge and wonder in the rush of it all.

The evening begins at the Hilton with a cocktail reception, silent auction and dinner. Following dinner, the party moves to Orchestra Hall for music, and finally, the after-party. Tickets

Complimentary valet parking is available at the Hilton. Black tie recommended.

The Color Purple at Theater Latté Da - A Discussion with Artistic Director Justin Lucero

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

The Color Purple will be staged by Theater Latté Da from March 20 to May 5, at the Ritz Theater. There are so many reasons to be excited about this production. Artistic Director Justin Lucero tells us, with a compelling list, why Theater Latté Da is thrilled to bring the musical to our community. “One of my most lasting literary memories is of reading Alice Walker's masterpiece novel in high school,” notes Lucero, “and one of my most lasting movie memories is of Steven Spielberg's masterpiece film starring Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey. Now I am proud that we get to present a masterpiece musical of this inspiring story on our stage for fellow fans and new generations alike. And if someone feels like having watched the starry, spectacular new movie musical was enough, we promise you that watching this version performed live and up-close will be an eye-opening, heart-rending, rousing experience." Don’t wait on this one - get your tickets here.

Here are some of the many reasons to catch this production:

1. It’s a co-production! In an exciting new venture, Theater Latté Da is partnering with Geva Theatre Center in Rochester, New York to produce this new production. A co-production is a collaborative producing model between multiple theater companies to share in the costs and planning of a show that is ultimately performed in both markets. In our case, we are originating the production for a seven-week run, and then the cast, sets, and costumes transfer to Geva for another month.

2. It makes us think about some of our favorite local Black-owned eateries! Whenever we have an additional chance at championing some of our favorite local businesses, we will! We’re excited to highlight such coffee faves as Flava Coffee & Cafe in Saint Paul and The Get Down Coffee Co. in our backyard of North Minneapolis. We also love to recommend our artists and ticket buyers to dine at famed Twin Cities favorite, Pimento, as well as our nearby treasure, STEPCHLD.

3. The style! If you know the musical, you know that fashion is a plot point. And so of course it makes us think of such local fashion icons as Rammy Mohamed of Ramadhan Designs and, of course, Black Fashion Week MN. And be sure to check out Costume Designer Jarrod Barnes’ fabulous artistry on stage in our production.

4. Our local legend musical director! Composer, pianist, arranger and producer Sanford Moore is founder and director of the award-winning vocal jazz ensemble Moore by Four. Beyond his several collaborations with Theater Latté Da and other local theater companies, particularly Penumbra, Moore has shared the stage with such notable jazz artists as Bobby McFerrin, Harry Connick, Jr., the late Joe Williams, Sarah Vaughn, Dizzy Gillespie and Carmen McRae. He is also the Minister of Music for Kingdom Life Church in North Minneapolis.

5. Introducing our community to a guest director’s vision and voice! We are thrilled to invite Daniel J. Bryant as guest director and leader of the creative process. His attention to story and character, and his vibrant and vivacious leadership style will absolutely be detectable on stage.

6. An exciting guest choreographer! Heather Beal is an accomplished dancer and choreographer who teaches Dunham Technique at Washington University in St. Louis and at The City Studio. This approach is “a vibrant African diasporic dance technique” that “through its humanistic philosophies and its focus on deep connection with the self and with others…is a balm for the current worldwide state of divisiveness and egocentrism.”

7. Alice Walker’s masterpiece! Most thrillingly, the source material for the stage musical has made an impact on so many of us. The gifted Walker is a novelist, short story writer, poet, and social activist who, in 1982 became the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. Some of my favorite pearls of wisdom come from her and/or her masterwork, including one that has been a recent go-to: “I have fallen in love with the imagination. And if you fall in love with the imagination, you understand that it is a free spirit. It will go anywhere, and it can do anything.”

8. The music! Many of us may know the influential novel, or the magnificent 1985 epic Steven Spielberg film, and may have been intrigued to learn it was adapted into an award-winning Broadway musical. Just this past holiday season, a film adaptation of the musical made a splash. But did you know: 13 songs from the musical were not included in the film? So, you just need to come see the live version at The Ritz to hear all the showstopping songs in a variety of styles ranging from gospel, jazz, ragtime, African music, and blues.

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month; Local Author Dr. Richard Lentz Explores TBI in His Book, Accidental Journey

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Our downtown neighbor, Dr. Richard D. Lentz is a clinical and forensic psychiatrist at Park Nicollet Health Services and a retired Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Minnesota. He has extensive experience with individuals and families who have coped with traumatic brain injury (TBI). He is also an author. His first novel, Accidental Journey, explores traumatic brain injury. We talked to him about the inspiration for the novel, narrative medicine and his future writing plans. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month – so it's an ideal time to pick up the novel, support a local author and learn about this common injury. You can also see Dr. Lentz discuss his book on March 11 at Magers & Quinn Booksellers – register here for the event. 

Q:  Thank you for speaking with us. Is this your first novel? What inspired you to write a novel about traumatic brain injury? 

A:  Yes, this is my first novel. As a clinical and forensic psychiatrist, I treated patients and families with traumatic brain injury, testified in brain injury cases as a forensic psychiatrist -  and realized that the public knows very little about TBI. Even physicians sometimes missed it! In retirement, I chose fiction as the best vehicle to make accessible this common, real, and poorly understood affliction - a story I was passionate to tell for its social value. 

Q:  Were the characters in Accidental Journey based on real people, or did you create them from scratch?

A:  All the characters - Jeff, Cate, and the kids - are fictional. No patient I have encountered would think this as their story. However, I did use my experience and knowledge to create characters who reflect real problems that TBI patients and their families face, in the acute phase and during prolonged treatment and recovery. 

Q:  Can you tell us about narrative medicine and why you believe it is helpful in cases of TBI? 

A:  Narrative medicine is a broad concept that means using story to help clinicians and the public understand the healthcare experiences of patients and families. It begins with understanding every patient as a unique person, knowing their stories, what their lives are like, taking detailed histories that goes far beyond the problems for which they seek care. A novel that tells stories like Cate and Jeff's, immersing one in the injury and pulling the reader through their experience, falls within that broad definition. 

Dr. Richard D. LentzQ:  How did you balance the medical aspects with the emotional and personal experiences of the characters?

A:  Brain injury affects one's ability to remember, to process information, to relate to others. It affects one's personhood, so a person with TBI cannot separate the medical aspects from their emotional and personal experiences. That said, there are medical events that take place over time as the consequences of the injury unfold, with emotional impact for individuals and families. An interesting story must be emotionally real, not just inform. In writing Accidental Journey, I had two audiences in mind, those who want to know more about TBI, and those who enjoy literary fiction. 

Q:  Were there moments that were particularly difficult to capture in your narrative? Did you face any unique challenges in conveying medical information in a fictional narrative? 

A:  Jeff, following his particular kind of TBI, lacks insight into how his injury has affected him. Because of this, he cannot tell us what he feels or thinks. Jeff has to reconstruct his experience from fragments of memory and emotion. The story relies on the interactions of Jeff's wife and children with Jeff, what they observe and feel, to tell the story of Jeff's injury. 

Q:  What message or awareness do you hope readers gain from Accidental Journey? 

A:  My hope is that readers acquire knowledge and experience empathy - a greater understanding of how TBI affects individuals and families and compassion for what they endure. 

Q:  Let’s talk about your future writing plans. Do you plan to explore similar themes or medical topics in your future works? 

A:  Sports injuries and war injuries are often in the news. Accidental Journey is about an accident, since accidents - falls, motor vehicle crashes (also assaults and abuse) - cause the great majority of TBIs. I have in mind the story of a soldier and the story of an athlete. 

Q:  Wonderful! Might we see you leading or participating in book club discussions of Accidental Journey? 

A:  I have presented my work, with readings, to book groups. It's fun for me, and responses have been positive. 

Q:  How may we follow your news? 

A:  I have a website, RichardDLentz.com. I hope to keep my book in the news, especially around March, which is Brain Injury Awareness Month, and around the Holidays. At any time of the year, books make wonderful gifts!

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Copies of Accidental Journey are available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes and Noble Online, and can be ordered at book stores. The book is also available to libraries and bookstores through Ingram, and is in both paperback and Kindle formats.

Coalescence: Inaugural Exhibition Under Gamut Gallery's New Ownership Team

Gamut Gallery is kicking off the new ownership team's inaugural exhibition

To kick off the 2024 calendar year, Gamut Gallery’s new Director, Francesca Bernardi, partnered with Gamut’s former director, Cass Garner, to create the collaborative exhibition, Coalescence. To bring this conception to fruition this duo requested artist suggestions from the new ownership team, Francesca Bernardi, Kasi Aten, and Brian Oreck along with the co-founders of Gamut, Cass Garner Jade and James Patrick. As the new ownership team is transitioning into their roles, it was essential for them to connect with the community that has been part of Gamut’s roots.

The curators combed through all the suggestions to pull the most cohesive artists together who represent each owner and co-founder. Cass and Francesca are very excited to welcome back Briana Auel, Evan Weselmann, Kim Heidkamp, John Foster, Jessica Kitzman, Laurie Borggreve, Madison Rubenstein, Nelson Cain, seangarrison, Suyao Tian, and Rock Johnsen - 11 artists who have been part of Gamut’s story over the past 5 years. 

Together, this roster of abstract artists was formed to bring a vivid multi-media exhibition that embraces the accessibility of Gamut featuring paintings, sculpture, and fiber art available at all price points and sizes. Many of the artists are creating works in the styles they are currently known for while incorporating nods to their past works that started their careers. This exhibition is guaranteed to give you the feels!

ABOUT THE CURATORS

Cass Garner is a graphic designer, art curator, project manager and working in Minneapolis. She co-founded Gamut Gallery, a cultural hub in Minneapolis over the past 12 years promoting the arts in Minneapolis and beyond. Cass led operations and project management for exhibitions and events while she was the Director until February of this year. She has curated dozens of exhibits within Gamut’s walls. In 2018 Cass was the solo Juror of Artistry’s 42nd Annual Members’ Juried Art Exhibition. Her curatorial practice expanded in 2020 partnering with The Coven at their St. Paul location to curate a special nook of the Coven, and she partnered with HAUS Salon in 2021 to highlight local, innovative artists from the Twin Cities producing 25 solo exhibits throughout the HAUS Salons across Minneapolis. Most recently Cass was the Project Manager for the Holidays on Nicollet and a juror for Hennepin Theatre Trust It’s the People Project.

Francesca Bernardi is the new Gallery Director and co-owner of Gamut Gallery. They are an art therapist, artist, art collector, and burgeoning curator. Through their work in art therapy, they are a skilled relationship cultivator, attentive communicator, and passionate about building community with multifaceted individuals. Coalescence is Francesca's gallery curatorial debut; however, they have hosted pop-up art galleries in their home featuring local artists. Francesca's excitement for curating will lead to many more exhibits highlighting artists in Minneapolis.

PUBLIC OPENING NIGHT:
Saturday, March 16, 7-10PM
Featuring Briana Auel, Evan Weselmann, Kim Heidkamp, John Foster, Jessica Kitzman, Laurie Borggreve, Madison Rubenstein, Nelson Cain, seangarrison, Suyao Tian, and Rock Johnsen.
• $10 presale available
• $15 day of the event, FREE for members
• DJ sets by James Patrick and Clint Lakness

COALESCENCE CURATOR and ARTIST TALK:
Thursday, April 4, 7pm
Moderator, Russ White of MPLSART joins curators Cass Garner and Francesca Bernardi alongside Coalescence artists Evan Weselmann and Jessica Kitzman to talk all things art
• $7 presale coming soon
• $10 day of the event, Free for Gamut Gallery Members

THC SIP and PAINT
Saturday, April 20, 2pm-5pm
Bringing back the energy that created Gamut Gallery, this sip and paint will have all the feelings of CoLab. Bring a friend or make a new one while playing art games and picking up a paintbrush. Canvases and paint will be provided.
• $15 presales coming soon
• $20 day of event
• 21+ event
• DJ Bobby Kahn brings the funk

GALLERY & GIFT SHOP OPEN HOURS + CONTACT INFO
FREE open hours: Thursday - Friday, 11am - 6pm; Saturday 11am - 4pm.

Follow Gamut on Facebook and Instagram for further details and information regarding the event.

Minneapolis Softens Your Water as Part of the Treatment Process

The City of Minneapolis has been softening our drinking water since the 1940s. This means you don’t need to install your own water softener at home. Take a moment to watch this video to see how water from the Mississippi is treated and delivered to us.

Mill City Museum Wins Fifth Place in Best History Museum Contest

Minnesotans showed their support for the museum in an online contest

Mill City Museum has won the honor of being named among the best history museums in the nation. Online voters chose the Minneapolis museum as the fifth place finisher. 

The recent contest included 21 sites from around the country, which were nominated by an expert panel for USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards. Results were announced February 23rd.

“It is an honor to be ranked as one of the five best history museums in the nation for the second consecutive year,” said Site Manager David Stevens. “We’re thankful for all those who took the time to vote and support Mill City Museum.” 

The following museums placed in the top five:

1. Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio
3. Cincinnati History Museum in Cincinnati, Ohio
4. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson, Mississippi
5. Mill City Museum!  :D

More information about the contest and results are available here. You can learn more about Mill City Museum and its upcoming events at mnhs.org/millcity.

February 2024 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a February 23 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is constructing a new parallel storm tunnel, enlarging a portion of the existing storm tunnel, and constructing a new tunnel access in Downtown Minneapolis.

The new tunnel is being constructed parallel to the existing tunnel located under Washington Ave S between Nicollet Mall and Chicago Ave. The existing tunnel under Chicago Ave between Washington Ave S and the Mississippi River is being expanded to handle the increased stormwater capacity. The purpose of this project is to reduce pressure in the existing tunnel, provide more room for future growth, and to reduce the need for future repairs and tunnel failures.

Project Map

Latest Project News

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue reconstruction of the storm tunnel outlet at the Mississippi River; excavation activities are complete.

2nd Ave

• Crews continue construction of a concrete liner for the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection.

Portland Ave

• Crews continue construction of a concrete liner for the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.

Lining progress

Since December, crews have continued to work on the concrete tunnel lining, pouring about 750 cubic yards of concrete. To date 13500 cubic yards of concrete have been poured. As noted in the infographic above, this is just over four times the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 93% complete.

What to expect

• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
• Schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
• Working hours will vary in the coming weeks due to the holiday and scheduled training.

Stay Connected

Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/central-city-tunnel/

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

Registration Open for the April 20 Earth Day 5K Fun Run/Walk and River Cleanup

Looking ahead to spring and Great River Coalition's annual event!

Register here

Family-friendly, dogs welcome, Music & Booths. Costumes are welcome. Prizes for the best! Name your Team! 

Organized river cleanup at 9:30 am.

A fun, family friendly event hosted by:

• Great River Coalition
• Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
• The National Park Service
• Mill City Running/St. City Running