Tonight - "Once There Were Castles: Lost Mansions and Estates of the Twin Cities" Author Larry Millett at Mill City Museum

Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Location:  Mill City Museum, 704 South 2nd Street
  
Author Larry Millett will be at the Mill City Museum for a talk and book signing for his new book, Once There Were Castles: Lost Mansions and Estates of the Twin Cities.

The first in-depth look at the history of the Twin Cities’ mansions, Once There Were Castles presents ninety lost mansions and estates, organized by neighborhood and illustrated with photographs and drawings. An absorbing read for Twin Cities residents and a crucial addition to the body of work on the region’s history, Once There Were Castles brings these “ghost mansions” back to life.

Click here to read a recent Star Trib article regarding Larry.

Boom Island Reflection

Taken from the Boom Island Bridge connecting to Nicollet Island.

Tonight - Public Hearing on New Policy Proposed to Enhance Community Engagement for Minneapolis Park Projects

Time: 6:30pm

Location: Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, 2117 West River Road

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) has developed a draft new policy and ordinance amendment related to how it involves the community in park projects and will host a public hearing for these proposed changes on October 5.

The policy and amended ordinance on community engagement are designed to improve practices for how the MPRB works and communicates with Minneapolis residents and park users, especially for capital projects involving the construction or redevelopment of park facilities.

In 2010 and throughout 2011, various community outreach methods were utilized to gather opinion from the community in development of the new policy and amended ordinance. Individuals and community groups were invited to share their thoughts though an online survey, public meetings, focus group discussions and print questionnaires available at recreation centers. Staff interviewed residents at community events such as neighborhood socials, movies and concerts in the parks.

Upon first draft, the public was invited to review and comment on the documents during a 45-day period. Community input was incorporated into the new policy and amended ordinance and is now proposed for approval by the Board of Commissioners.

Download - Resolution Adopting Amended Chapter 11 of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Code of Ordinances and New Policy on Community Engagement 4-2-190PLN

View more documents from Mill City Times

Capella Tower in Pink

To raise awareness of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Taken from our balcony in the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Today - 3rd Annual River Tour With the Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership

Tuesday, October 4

Time: 4:30pm – 6:30pm

Location: Boom Island Regional Park, 724 Sibley Street NE

Save the date for this lively narrated tour of the Mississippi River above the falls highlighting hot places and issues to watch in 2012.  Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

The Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership serves as a champion for a vibrant Mississippi riverfront, to create an enduring legacy now and for future generations. We advocate for a vibrant  riverfront,  increase public awareness of existing river access,  create public forums to address riverfront issues, and host public outings. Join us for one of our upcoming talks, walks or bike rides, and check the calendar for riverfront events.

Cost: $35.  Please bring a check to the event or mail to Minneapolis Riverfront Partnership, 2117 West River Road, Minneapolis, MN 55411.

RSVP here

October 12, 2011, Wednesday - Authentic East Hennepin Experience

Time: 5:00pm – 5:50pm

Location: Main Street SE and East Hennepin Avenue MAP

East Hennepin Avenue, originally known as Bay Street, has always been a ferociously interesting dividing line between northeast and southeast Minneapolis. Join us for 45 minutes to learn a very brief history of St. Anthony Falls, glimpse the interior of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, and hear gripping tales of the neighborhood’s first families. Along the way you will view diverse architecture, assorted building rehabilitations​, and hidden neighborhood art.

Afterwards, head on over to Nicollet Island for the Third Ward Neighborhoodfest!