Hennepin Avenue will reopen in both directions by Monday, April 13th

Project Status Update - Downtown Minneapolis

MN Limited, LLC. and Michels Corporation, two authorized CenterPoint Energy contractors, will continue installing natural gas pipeline in the following locations:

April 13:

    Hennepin Avenue will reopen in both directions.

April 13 to April 24:

    The corner of 2nd Avenue N., from 2nd Street N. to 1st Street N. will be closed. Please follow the posted detour.

Beginning April 13:

    Crews will begin installing natural gas transmission pipe along the south side of 1st Street S., from Hennepin Avenue to 2nd Avenue S. Parking will not be allowed in this area as construction progresses. Two-way traffic will be maintained.

April 13 to April 24:

    The driving lane and sidewalk on 3rd Avenue N., west of 2nd Street N. will reopen.

    The southern parking and bike lane on 3rd Avenue N., from 2nd Street N. to Washington Avenue N. will be closed during construction.

April 15 to April 29:

    Construction will continue along 2nd street N., from 3rd Avenue N. to 2nd Avenue N. A lane shift will occur in the area of construction from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Two-way traffic will be maintained. Construction will occur overnight as needed.

Minneapolis RiverCurrent

From April 9, 2015:

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

Third Annual Askov Finlayson Bubble Hockey Tournament

Saturday, April 12, 2 pm face-off

Askov Finlayson, 200 First Street North

The third annual Askov Finlayson Bubble Hockey Tournament is set for Sunday, April 12. It’s a single-elimination battle of quick thinking and quicker wrists, with The Bachelor Farmer's Norsten Bar serving drinks to athletes and spectators alike. Get more information here: http://bit.ly/1EzCPO2. Email store@askovfinlayson.com with your team name and walk-up song to reserve a space in their bracket today.

Next Generation Parks Lecture: University of Minnesota 3.x: Where is Nature Now? Symposium

Friday, April 17, 7 pm (reception at 6 pm)

Northrop, 84 Church Street SE, Best Buy Theater

Through the Minneapolis Parks Foundation’s Next Generation of Parks™ Lecture Series, global design innovators and local thought-leaders showcase the most exciting new parks destinations and delve into important issues affecting our vibrant city and region. The 2015 series features impressive talent and dynamic speakers from across the county and around the world – including our own backyard. This opening event in the series will feature Kate Orff, Founder and Principal, SCAPE Landscape Design, and 2014 Buckminster Fuller Institute Challenge winner. This is free public event, but seating is limited. For more information and to register: http://mplsparksfoundation.org/projects/lecture-series/.

RIVER MILES

On exhibit: April 18 – May 30 (Gallery Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 1 – 6 pm; Friday; Saturday and Sunday, 11 am – 4 pm)

Opening reception: Saturday, April 18, 5 – 8 pm

Circa Gallery, 201 First Street North

RIVER MILES, featuring new paintings by Kansas artist Lisa Grossman, opens Saturday, April 18. It is Grossman's first show with Circa Gallery, and the artist will be in attendance. Grossman began exploring the Kansas River (known as the Kaw to Kansas locals) after moving to Lawrence, Kansas, from Kansas City in 1996. After catching an unforgettable glimpse of the Kaw on a flight, she began investigating the 171-mile length of the river valley with a local pilot, capturing the beauty of the meandering Kaw with photographs and videos. Already a painter of the prairie, primarily in plein air, she continued her meditative investigations, but with an emphasis on the ceaseless flux and flow of the river and its revelatory contrasts of the darkened mass of land and reflected ribbons of light. The exhibition is free and open to the public. For 25 years, Circa Gallery has offered collectors the finest work by emerging and established local and national contemporary artists. For more information visit: www.CircaGallery.org.

Weisman Art Museum

Weisman Art Museum, 333 East River Road

http://weisman.umn.edu/

The Sweet Spot

On exhibit: April 20 – May 10

During the last weeks of the spring semester, the museum’s student group, WAM Collective, will turn the museum’s front plaza into a temporary park. Inspired by the pavement-to-park movement and in conjunction with the museum’s exhibition Feast: Radical Hospitality in Contemporary Art, the aim of the park is to “shift perspectives and spark encounters that aren’t always possible within a fast-moving and segmented society.” Visitors are invited to relax in the park, define a space for themselves and stay a while. Grab a zine from the Zine Library or catch one of the ongoing programs in the park. To submit a zine for the park: http://wam.umn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/WAM_zinesubmission.pdf.

Kroening Interpretive Center Programs (Three Rivers Park District)

North Mississippi Regional Park, 4900 Mississippi Court

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

Homeschool: Spring Science

Tuesday, April 21, 10 am – 12 noon

Make a kite, fly it, and learn why the wind blows. Survey for spring signs to help scientists across the country, and perform experiments to help us prepare for warmer weather ahead. Reservations required. $5. To register: http://www.threeriversparks.org/events/H/homeschool--spring-science.aspx.

Cub Scouts: Webelos Scientist Badge

Saturday, April 25, 10 am – 12 noon

Investigate the scientific laws around us. Explore air and water pressure, launch a water pressure rocket, and make fog in a bottle. Test your balance, trick your eyes, and take home a kit to grow crystals. Reservations required. $5. To register: http://www.threeriversparks.org/events/C/cub-scouts--webelos-scientist-badge.aspx.

Free Family Fun Day: Natural Toys and Games

Sunday, April 26, 1 – 3 pm, ongoing

Drop in anytime! Explore a different topic each week through hands-on activities that everyone can enjoy at their own pace. This program is free and open to all ages, but children younger than 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Upcoming Regis Center for Art Activities

Regis Center for Art, University of Minnesota, 405 21st Avenue South

Fred Larson and David Moore

April 21 – May 9, 2015

Quarter Gallery

In Conversation with Joe Dowling

Tuesday, April 21, 7:30 pm

Guthrie Theater, 818 Second Street South, Wurtele Thrust Stage

With his leadership coming to a close on June 30, Director Joe Dowling sits down with New York Post theater columnist Michael Riedel for a parting glance at his career as the Guthrie’s leader. While most In Conversation events have been moderated by Dowling, this time the spotlight will be focused on him for a one-on-one conversation spanning his early years at the Guthrie to his current directorial work on this season’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Crucible and Juno and the Paycock, the production that brings his U.S. directorial career full circle. The discussion will be followed by a Q&A with the audience. $15. For more information and tickets: http://www.guthrietheater.org/plays_events/concerts/events/_conversation_joe_dowling.

Beez Kneez Dandelion Honey Pastry Challenge

Wednesday, April 22, 6:30 – 9:30 pm

The Lab Theater, 700 First Street North

You’re invited to the biggest and sweetest bee-loving event of the year, the second annual dandelion honey pastry chef challenge. Tickets to the fundraiser are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. For more information and tickets: http://www.thebeezkneezdelivery.com/events/.

Mill City Museum Programs and Events

704 Second Street South

For more information about Mill City Museum events call 612-341-7555, or visit http://www.millcitymuseum.org.

Jingle Dress Film Screening

Thursday, April 23, 6 pm

Join the filmmakers for a screening of Jingle Dress, a narrative feature film by William Eigen. The evening begins at 6 pm with music, then at 7 pm hear remarks from the filmmakers followed by the screening. Jingle Dress tells the story of John Red Elk who hears from his relatives in Minneapolis that his Uncle Norton is dead and vows to go to the big city to find out what really happened to him. The film stars Chaske Spencer and Stacey Thunder and introduces Mauricimo and S'Nya Sanchez-Hohenstein. Free.

Washburn A Mill Tour

Saturday, April 25, 1 pm

Take an in-depth look at the historic Washburn A Mill complex and the award-winning Mill City Museum building. A museum interpreter will take visitors into the building’s many nooks and crannies, highlighting the lives of the men and women who worked there, how the building functioned during its peak flour milling years and the many changes to the building over time. This is the only opportunity for a guided tour through the entire museum building and the only chance to see some of its non-public spaces. The tour includes admission to the museum gallery, Baking Lab, Water Lab and Flour Tower show. Fee: $14 adults, $12 seniors and college students, $10 children ages 6-17 and MHS members. Tour includes museum admission. Reservations recommended; call 612-341-7555 or register online.

Baking Memories: White vs. Whole Wheat

Sunday, April 26, 2 pm

See how history is revealed in food through a baking demonstration focusing on the story behind white and whole wheat flour. Discover how Minneapolis millers perfected a way to make white flour on an industrial scale, hear about the popularity of white flour in the 19th century, what effects this had on nutrition and why flour today is frequently enriched. Visitors will also learn why Sylvester Graham developed a whole wheat cracker "to improve health and morality," hear the pros and cons of each type of flour, sample baked goods and take home the recipes. Program is included with museum admission of $11 adults, $9 seniors and college students, $6 children ages 6-17; free for MNHS members.

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

1011 Washington Avenue South, 612-215-2520, http://www.mnbookarts.org.

Hours: Monday 10 am -- 5 pm, Tuesday 10 am -- 9 pm, Wednesday-Saturday 10 am -- 5 pm, Sunday 12 noon – 4 pm

Class details, instructor biographies, registration details and online registration are all available at above web site. You may also register by calling 612-215-2520. Note: This is only a sampling of classes, focusing on those that are less expensive and that don’t require experience.

This Is Book Arts: Objectifying the Book Object

with Wilber H. “Chip” Schilling of Indulgence Press

Roundtable Artist’s Talk: Friday, April 24, 7 pm

Workshop Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26; 10 am – 4 pm

In celebration of its 30th Anniversary year, MCBA hosts a series of free “This Is Book Art” presentations and reduced price workshops throughout 2015, offering opportunities for interaction, discussion and skill-building with leaders in the field. At each month’s Book Arts Roundtable artists’ talks, you can learn more about the field of book arts and about each teaching artist’s work. Roundtables are free and held in MCBA’s studios. In this workshop class students will work with a small object of their choosing. Through free association and word generating techniques, students will write a series of words to describe their object. These words will then be printed letterpress on a sheet of paper that will be used to make an enclosure to house the object. Students will focus on content creation and gain basic skills in letterpress printing and simple structure models to enhance content development. All skill levels welcome. To register for the class: http://www.mnbookarts.org/event-registration/?ee=410.

Youth Class: Snail Mail: The Art of Correspondence

Saturday, April 25, 9 am – 12 noon

Snail mail is not a thing of the past! Writing letters is an important way to communicate with loved ones near and far. In this class, students will learn the fun of communication through letter writing. We'll spend the first portion of the class downstairs at MCBA where students will make a set of postcards complete with their own illustrations and use a Vandercook printing press to create multiples! In the second half of the class, we’ll head upstairs to the Loft, where we will read stories like I Wanna Iguana by Karen Kaufman Orloff, and With Love, Little Red Hen by Alma Flor Ada, to explore the purposes and customs of letters. We will then put pencil to paper and write letters on our brand new handmade stationery! Come experience first-hand how enjoyable it can be to send and receive snail mail. Students will leave with real letters, so be sure to stock up on stamps! For students ages 6-8. $58.50 ($52.65 MCBA or Loft members). Register online through The Loft Literary Center or call 612-379-8999.

14th Annual Marcy Arts Gala

Saturday, April 25, 5 – 11 pm

Soap Factory, 514 Second Street SE

An evening of great food, drink, entertainment and art auctions to benefit arts programming at Marcy Open School. Advance tickets $45. For more information and tickets: http://marcy.mpls.k12.mn.us/mapgala.

Star Gala

Saturday, April 25, 6 pm

The Depot, 225 Third Avenue South

You’re invited to the 24th annual Children's Star Gala. This year, proceeds will support Children’s Hospital and Clinics’ cardiovascular program, which is dedicated to serving pediatric patients battling a heart condition of any kind. With the largest program in the Upper Midwest, Children’s has consistently ranked as one of the top pediatric cardiovascular programs in the country by U.S. News & World Report. With the best medical experts, technology and facilities in one central location, their innovative approach to caring for the heart has ensured outcomes and a care experience that are truly unrivaled. For information and tickets: http://www.childrensmn.org/stargala/.

Riverfront Earth Day Cleanups

Saturday, April 25, 9:30 am – 12 noon

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board along with the City of Minneapolis announce the 21st annual Minneapolis Earth Day Clean-Up event on Saturday, April 25. The Earth Day Clean-Up has become the largest community service project in Minneapolis and takes place at nearly 40 clean-up sites throughout the city. Since 2008, more than 17,000 residents have removed more than 140,000 pounds of garbage. There is no charge to participate, and residents are encouraged to participate by volunteering to help pick up trash in parks, neighborhoods and watersheds. No registration needed; just choose a site and show up. To find a detailed list of clean-up sites and more information please visit https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/events/earth_day_cleanup/#group_1_219258 or call 612-230-6479. Some specific riverfront options of which I’m aware:

Marcy-Holmes Neighborhood Association:

Father Hennepin Buffs Park, Sixth Avenue SE and Main Street

Help clean the riverfront from I-35W to Nicollet Island. Free refreshments, including a lunch for volunteers following the event. For more info, contact Lisa at: lhakanson@gmail.com.

Friends of the Mississippi River:

West River Parkway at East 36th or East 44th

Friends of the Mississippi River will be hosting cleanups at the rare oak savanna at East 36th and West River Parkway and the restored maple-basswood forest bluff top at East 44th and West River Parkway. Participants at these locations also will learn about the Mississippi River Gorge Stewards program and enjoy a Parkway Pizza lunch and a Great Lakes Brewing Company after-party. Details and directions are on the FMR event page: http://www.fmr.org/participate/events/earth_day_cleanup-2015-04-25

Sample of Performances at MacPhail Center for Music

501 Second Street South

For more information about events (including student performances) and classes: http://www.macphail.org or 612-321-0100.

Faculty Performance: Bach, Beethoven and Brazil

Saturday, April 25, 4 pm

Antonello Hall

Free admission. For program: http://www.macphail.org/Assets/uploads/files/pdf/events/14-15/Bach%20Beethoven%20Brazil-Faculty%20Performance.pdf?utm_source=Upcoming+Events%2C+April+2015&utm_campaign=EventsApril15&utm_medium=email.

The Bakken Trio: For Richer, For Poorer, The Rich Legacy of the Hapsburgs

Sunday, April 26, 4 pm

The Bakken Trio brings you the exuberant music of Boccherini and Mozart and Schubert’s great B flat Piano Trio in “For Richer, For Poorer” — the rich legacy of composers rendered paupers in a wealthy empire. For more information and tickets: http://www.bakkentrio.org/.

Percussion Concert

Sunday, April 26, 7:30 pm

Antonello Hall

Collaborative Performance Series presented by MacPhail Center for Music and the University of Minnesota School of Music, featuring students from the University and MacPhail, including Rimshots! and the U of M percussion ensemble. Free and open to the public.

Sample of Activities and Classes at The Loft

1011 Washington Avenue South

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

Second Story Reading: Bryan Bliss and Pete Hautman

Sunday, April 26, 2 pm

Second Story is the Loft’s reading series for young adult and middle-grade authors. Perfect for families and readers of all ages, Second Story pairs a first-time author with a more established voice in children’s literature. Bryan Bliss is the author of No Parking at the End Times. He holds master’s degrees in theology and fiction and—shockingly—found a professional job that allows him to use both of those degrees. His political philosophy degree, however, is still underutilized. His nonfiction has been published in Image Journal, along with various other newspapers, magazines and blogs. He lives in Minneapolis with his wife and two children, both of whom wish he wrote books about dragons. Or wizards. Pete Hautman is the author of more than twenty novels for adults and teens, including the 2004 National Book Award winner Godless, Los Angeles Book Prize winner The Big Crunch, and three New York Times Notable Books: Drawing Dead, The Mortal Nuts and Rash. His “young adult” novels range from science fiction (Rash, Mr. Was, Hole in the Sky and The Obsidian Blade) to mystery (Blank Confession) to contemporary drama (Godless, Sweetblood) to romantic comedy (What Boys Really Want). With novelist, poet and occasional co-author Mary Logue, Hautman divides his time between Golden Valley, Minnesota, and Stockholm, Wisconsin. His latest book is Eden West, the story of a boy growing up in an isolated doomsday cult in Montana. Learn more about Pete Hautman on his website: www.petehautman.com and his blog http://petehautman.blogspot.com.

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

Treehouse presents:

Illuminate: Let’s Make Amazing Happen

Thursday, April 30, 4 pm

The Depot Minneapolis, 225 Third Avenue South

Reserve your space at the 2015 TreeHouse gala today, benefitting Treehouse, Inc. The speaker will be Donald Driver, and the musical guest will be Ben Utecht. For information and tickets: http://www.treehouseyouth.org/gala.

Ten Thousand Things presents:

Forget Me Not When Far Away

May 8 – 10 and 15 -- 17, Minnesota Opera Center, 620First Street North

May 22–24 and 29–31, Open Book, 1011 Washington Avenue South

A solider returns from a long war and must navigate a very changed world in Kira Obolensky’s new comedy, Forget Me Not When Far Away, premiering with Ten Thousand Things (TTT) this spring. TTT Artistic Director Michelle Hensley will direct the show, featuring Ron Menzel, Shá Cage, Sun Mee Chomet, Annie Enneking, Elise Langer and Karen Wiese-Thompson. Music/sound is by Peter Vitale and Annie Enneking, sets are by Irve Dell, costumes by Sonya Berlovitz and choreography by Jim Lichtscheidl. This is the third play Obolensky has written specifically for TTT’s unique production style. She has been serving as playwright-in-residence with the company for the past two years; this is the third and final year of her residency. Tickets for the public performances of Forget Me Not When Far Away are $30. For audience members under 30, a pay-what-you-can option is available for every performance. Tickets on sale at www.tenthousandthings.org or 1-800-838-3006.

Mississippi River Forum Workshop

Friday, May 8, 8:30 am -- 12:30 pm

Science Museum of Minnesota, Saint Paul

You’re invited to the National Park Service's seventh annual Mississippi River Forum workshop. The keynote address will be provided by Bill Stowe, CEO and General Manager of Des Moines Water Works. Workshop topics will include: The Return of the River Otters and Minnesota's Buffer Initiative: An Up-to-Date Look at the Proposed Legislation. Program information will be updated at www.nps.gov/miss/learn/nature/riverforum.htm. To RSVP, and for more information, contact Lark Weller at 651-293-8442 or lark_weller@nps.gov. Thanks to Mississippi River Fund and The McKnight Foundation for support of this program. The Mississippi River Fund is the proud charitable partner of the National Park Service.

Environmental Initiative Awards

Thursday, May 21, 5:30 pm

Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power Street

Each year Environmental Initiative honors innovative projects that have achieved extraordinary environmental results by harnessing the power of partnership. The 18 finalists for the 2015 Environmental Initiative Awards were announced recently. You’re invited to join Environmental Initiative for an inspiring night of networking and celebration with over 450 of Minnesota’s environmental leaders. The evening includes a reception, formal dinner and awards program to honor the eighteen finalist projects. For more information, a list of the finalists and tickets: http://www.environmental-initiative.org/projects/environmental-initiative-awards.

All the World’s a Stage: A Tribute Gala Celebrating Joe Dowling

Saturday, June 6, 8:30 pm

Guthrie Theater, 818 Second Street South, Wurtele Thrust Stage

A gala performance celebrating Joe Dowling’s 20 years of unparalleled vision and leadership. The Guthrie invites you to be with them on this singular night in the theater as they extend their gratitude for Joe Dowling’s dedication to the Guthrie by presenting a tribute performance featuring the rich community of artists he has nurtured for 20 years. A celebratory champagne reception will provide the finishing touch on the farewell. Black tie attire. For information and tickets: http://www.guthrietheater.org/plays_events/concerts/events/all_world%E2%80%99s_stage_tribute_gala_celebrating_joe_dowling.

*****Warm Weather Activities Returning for the Season*****

Lock and Dam 1

Daily, 7 am – 8 pm

5000 West River Parkway

Lock and Dam 1 (also referred to as Ford Dam), adjacent to Minnehaha Park, offers free, self-guided tours of the lock and dam. The facility features a public observation deck with scenic views of the Ford Dam, power plant and the river gorge. For more information: http://www.mvp.usace.army.mil/Missions/Navigation/LocksDams/LockDam1.aspx.

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

Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul

St. Anthony Main Theatres, 115 Main Street SE

In addition to first-run movies, the Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul exhibits the best of classic and contemporary cinema from around the world, including several topical festivals. To see what’s on the schedule, visit: http://www.mspfilmsociety.org.

Live Music and Movies at Crooked Pint Ale House

Crooked Pint Ale House, 501 Washington Avenue South

Crooked Pint Ale House is a nouveau urban pub with a local neighborhood feel that offers movies and live music. Live music every weekend features local, regional, and national performers and a range of music styles. Visit http://www.crookedpint.com/music-film-and-events for schedule information. For more information: http://www.crookedpint.com or 612-877-6900.

Real Ghost Tours

Fridays and Saturdays, 8 pm

St. Anthony Main, 125 Main Street SE

Visit the Other Side — beneath your feet is a world few ever see. What secrets do these 19th century limestone walls hold? What lies beneath today's bustling Mill City?

Step into the past with Real Ghost Tours of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Join a real ghost hunter on an expedition into the city's shadowlands, to meet the colorful characters of bygone days, where technology, theater and a bit of the supernatural bring lingering souls to life. Join us at 125 Main Street SE Minneapolis to touch, and be touched by, the past ... if you dare. For more information: http://www.realghosttours.com.

Mill City Museum

Museum Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am -- 5 pm; Sunday, 12 noon -- 5 pm

704 South Second Street

Built within the limestone ruins of the Washburn A Mill - the National Historic Landmark that was once the centerpiece of the world's flour milling industry - the museum tells the story of a mighty river, a young city and how the production of flour fueled the growth of Minnesota. The museum's 12,000 square foot exhibit space is packed with fun and intrigue for visitors of all ages. Follow your nose to the Baking Lab, splash around in the water lab and enjoy the rooftop view of the riverfront. The eight-story Flour Tower show tells the story of the mill through the voices of former workers and runs throughout each day. The newly restored West Engine House features Kevin Kling's take on Minneapolis history in the movie "Minneapolis in 19 Minutes Flat" and shows every half hour. Fee: $11 adults, $9 seniors and college students with ID, $6 youth ages 6 – 17, free for children under 5 and MHS members. Call 612-341-7555 or visit http://www.millcitymuseum.org for more information.

Music at Aster Café

125 Main Street SE

The Aster Café now has live music on many evenings (and weekend brunches) to complement its food and beverage offerings. For more information and a schedule: http://aster-cafe.com/ .

Guthrie Theater Backstage Tours

Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings at 10 am

Guthrie Theater, 818 Second Street South

This 45-minute backstage tour offers a look at what goes on behind the scenes at the Guthrie. Discover the stunning and expanded features of this state-of-the-art facility and learn how the Guthrie takes its plays from script to stage, including the many intriguing steps in between. On the tour, visit the Guthrie’s various production departments, including the shops where costumes, sets and props are expertly crafted by talented artisans. The cost is $12 per person; $7 for subscribers, students or seniors. To book a tour, call the Guthrie Box Office at 612-377-2224 or order online at http://www.guthrietheater.org.  http://www.guthrietheater.org/whats_happening/calendar. Additional tours may be scheduled for groups of 20 or more based on availability. Groups may call the group sales office at 612-225-6240 for information and scheduling options. Advance reservations are required for groups of 20 or more.

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

Telling River Stories Web Site

The “Telling River Stories” Web site can be found at http://www.riverstories.umn.edu. Telling River Stories is a collaborative project that populates the urban Mississippi River corridor with stories of how the city and the river have been jointly developed. The site highlights stories about the people and places that make up today’s urban river landscape. In addition to the Web site, future programs and on-site installations will be part of the overall project. The Telling River Stories program is part of the River Life: Mississippi and U project, a partnership of the University of Minnesota’s Institute on the Environment, Institute for Advanced Study, Water Resource Center, College of Design and Urban Studies Program. The River Life project connects University research, teaching and civic engagement programs with off-campus partners who are working to reinvigorate the urban Mississippi River. In the coming weeks, project team members will be adding materials to the site’s coverage of “river stories” in the Twin Cities, St. Louis and New Orleans. Check back often to view the progress.

River Talk

River Talk is a thoughtful, informed blog about issues that affect the Mississippi River that is provided by Patrick Nunnally of the University of Minnesota’s Institute on the Environment RiverLife program. To check it out: http://www.riverlife.umn.edu/rivertalk/.

Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District Calendar

The Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District web site has a calendar feature that has lots of great info. To check it out, visit: http://www.minneapolisdid.com/page/show/391008-events.

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

West River Parkway Failed Slope Survey

The online survey for the repair of the West River Parkway Failed Slope has received over 750 responses. Although the survey will remain open until April 10, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board has posted an interim report with all comments received. To review the interim report, go to the project page (https://www.minneapolisparks.org/park_care__improvements/park_projects/current_projects/west_river_parkway_slope_repair/#group_0_198527) and select “What’s New.”

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

Minneapolis’ Last Barge Shipping Season Opens

http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/298319471.html

Spoon and Stable

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/taste/298328881.html

East Bank Trail Land Acquisition

http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/298390681.html

http://www.journalmpls.com/news-feed/park-board-got-a-steal-on-riverfront-land

Mr. Burns – A Post-Electric Play at Guthrie

http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/stageandarts/298473751.html

http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/stageandarts/298804681.html

Betty Danger’s Ferris Wheel Now Open

http://www.journalmpls.com/news-feed/the-danger-ferris-wheel-is-up-and-running-at-betty-dangers

Minneapolis St Paul International Film Festival

http://www.minnpost.com/artscape/2015/04/international-film-festival-how-navigate-wrangle-and-conquer-beast?utm_source=MinnPost+e-mail+newsletters&utm_campaign=57ee00dd24-4_3_2015_Daily_Newsletter4_3_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_3631302e9c-57ee00dd24-123345102

http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/arts/2015/04/06/minneapolis-saint-paul-film-festival-upon-us

http://blogs.citypages.com/dressingroom/2015/04/flicks_you_wont_want_to_miss_at_the_minneapolis-st_paul_international_film_festival.php

http://thecolu.mn/16418/off-festivals

New Chef at Red Stag Supperclub

http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2015/04/02/bartmann-moves-chefs-taya-kaufenberg-brian-crouch.html

Tenth Avenue Bridge Rehab

http://www.mndaily.com/news/campus/2015/04/06/city-calls-10th-ave-bridge-repairs

http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/298924991.html

Heron Island Restoration

http://kstp.com/news/stories/S3755767.shtml

Ukrainian East Eggs at Kramarczuk’s

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2015/04/04/minneapolis-deli-sells-artful-easter-eggs-for-ukrainian-refugees/

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/video/11359662-minnesota-women-decorate-easter-eggs-in-ukrainian-tradition/

Also: http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/298919271.html

SexWorld Building for Sale

http://www.startribune.com/business/298842291.html

InVision Open in North Loop

http://www.journalmpls.com/news-feed/invision-distinctive-eyewear-is-now-open-in-the-north-loop

Studio ME Fitness in St. Anthony Main

http://www.journalmpls.com/news-feed/studio-me-fitness-warms-up-to-st-anthony-location

Pracna Plans

http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2015/04/06/pracna-is-going-to-reopen-sort-of.html

The Food Building

http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/news/2015/04/06/food-entrepreneurs-hope-make-nordeast-minneapolis-foodie-central

Joe Dowling Celebration at Guthrie

http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/stageandarts/299011721.html

Brenda Langton, Spoonriver

http://www.twincities.com/restaurants/ci_27870892/brenda-langton-chef-owner-spoonriver

Diane Yang, Spoon and Stable

http://www.twincities.com/restaurants/ci_27871057/diane-yang-pastry-chef-at-spoon-and-stable

Kim Bartmann, Red Stag Supperclub, etc.

http://www.twincities.com/restaurants/ci_27871041/kim-bartmann-restaurateur

STEP-UP to Provide Job Interview Experience to Over 1,600 Youth April 13-16

Via an April 9 Press Release from the City of Minneapolis:

Minneapolis Youth Employment Program STEP-UP to Provide Job Interview Experience to Over 1,600 Youth

Over 400 Twin Cities Business Professionals to Provide One-on-One Mock Interviews with Youth at Minneapolis Convention Center April 13-16

Thursday, April 9, 2015 (Minneapolis)  – April 13-16, over 1,600 Minneapolis youth and 400 Twin Cities business professionals will descend on the Minneapolis Convention Center for four nights for the annual [we don’t know how many years these have been happening] STEP-UP youth employment program ‘Mock Interviews.’ Directed by AchieveMpls, these practice job interviews match  professional business volunteers one-on-one with  over 1,600 Minneapolis youth who are preparing for summer internships at top Twin Cities companies through the City’s STEP-UP youth employment program.

Interviews are scheduled from 4:45 - 6:15 pm each night at the Minneapolis Convention Center, Meeting Room 200, 1301 Second Avenue South.  Interviewers include Richard Davis, STEP-UP co-chair and U.S. Bancorp Chair, President and CEO;  Hilary Marden-Resnik, UCare Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer; and Rich Renikoff, Wells Fargo Regional Director and Senior Vice President.

“Preparing our young people for the workforce is something we are all responsible for,” said Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges. “The STEP-UP program is one way we are making sure these young people are in the picture of our workforce, which is crucial to the success of all of us. I want to thank all of the people who are making a personal commitment to help our kids succeed and ensuring that no genius is left on the table.”

“The time to think about tomorrow’s workforce is today. The STEP-UP program is one of the top initiatives in the country for preparing our students for tomorrow’s jobs,” said Todd Klingel, President and CEO, Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce. “By participating in the ‘Mock Interview’ process, you are not only providing a wonderful service to some incredibly courageous young people—you are also ensuring a bright future for our entire community.” 

Founded in 2004, the City of Minneapolis STEP-UP youth employment program has created over 20,000 valuable workplace experiences for Minneapolis youth ages 14-21. Managed in partnership with AchieveMpls and with support from the Minnesota WorkForce Centers, the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, and Project for Pride and Living (PPL), STEP-UP recruits, trains and places Minneapolis youth in jobs with a wide range of top Twin Cities businesses, nonprofits and public agencies, building a stronger future workforce for our knowledge-based regional economy. STEP-UP serves populations that face the greatest barriers to employment, particularly youth from low-income families, youth of color, youth from recent immigrant families, and youth with disabilities.

Prior to the ‘Mock Interviews,’ each STEP-UP program applicant completes 7-12 hours of work readiness training depending on their age and grade level. The trainings, directed by AchieveMpls and certified by the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce, are focused on developing 21^st Century skills such as communication, problem solving, professional conduct, workplace ethics, interview skills, and resume writing.

In a bustling Minneapolis Convention Center hall, with their work readiness trainings completed, interns put their new skills to the test in what for many is their first professional job interview.  Following the interview, business volunteers coach each STEP-UP intern, modeling professionalism and providing candid feedback to help interns strengthen their skills and confidence. 

“This will be my third mock interview,” said Lulu B., a returning STEP-UP Achieve intern and aspiring doctor. “I really like connecting with the interviewers. They help me think about my strengths and challenges. They also help me prepare for the kind of professional work environment I should expect.  It really feels like a real job interview with a professional company.”

The 400-plus business volunteers will include employees from Accenture, Alina Health, Ameriprise, Best Buy, Fraser, General Mills, Target, Thrivent, US Bank, Wells Fargo and several other businesses and organizations.  Learn more about STEP-UP from the City of Minneapolis’ website or the AchieveMpls website, or follow STEP-UP activities and events all year long on Twitter with hashtag #STEPUPMpls.

Parkway Closures for April 11 for Goldy's Run

The following parkways will be temporarily closed April 11, 2015 for the Goldy’s Run 10 Mile:

8:00am to 2:00pm – East River Pkwy - West River Pkwy between 22nd Ave S and Broadway St NE – Main Street between 6th Ave SE and Hennepin Ave.

Please note that the duration of the closures is subject to change based on the event's start and finish times.

A complete list of current and upcoming parkway closures is available online.

Interim Report of West River Parkway Mudslide Survey Reponses

Via an April 7 Minneapolis Park and Rec Board e-newsletter:

The online survey for the repair of the West River Parkway Failed Slope has received over 750 responses!  Although the survey will remain open until April 10, we have posted an interim report with all comments received. Please visit the project page or go to www.minneapolisparks.org/currentprojects and select “West River Parkway Slope Repair” to review the interim report under the "What's New" tab.

Franklin Avenue Bridge Reconditioning Update

Photo credit: Bill Klotz

Via the Hennepin County Website:

Reconditioning of the Franklin Ave Bridge (County Road 5) over West River Parkway and the Mississippi River in Minneapolis.

The Franklin Avenue Bridge spans West River Parkway and the Mississippi River. This historic structure will be rehabilitated over the next two construction seasons.

The new bridge deck will incorporate safe, modern, multi-modal features such as separated on-road bicycle facilities, protected pedestrian walkways, overlook nooks, and architectural lighting.

The "below deck" concrete rehabilitation is anticipated to begin in April 2015. The bridge will be open during the 2015 construction season.

For travelers using West River Parkway and the easterly river edge trail under the Franklin Avenue Bridge, there may be some travel impacts as they complete the overhead concrete rehabilitation.

In 2015 the contractor will manufacture "precast" bridge deck panels that will be placed during the 2016 bridge closure. These panels will be made at a site, adjacent to the river, just south of the Washington Avenue Bridge. This will allow use of river transportation to float these panels down the river, and these segments will then be hoisted by water borne cranes into their final positions.

Deck removal and replacement will occur during the 2016 construction season with the goal of reopening the bridge in September 2016.

Hennepin County has established detour signing plans using alternative routes for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists during the bridge deck replacement phase. The alternative routes will be well communicated in Spring 2016.

Project layout and cross section (PDF) 

Update on Friday, April 10, 2015 at 3:33PM by Kim Eslinger

Work will begin on the Franklin Avenue bridge starting Monday, April 13, 2015 with bike lane and sidewalk closures. Pedestrians and bicyclists will still be able to cross the bridge.

Permit surveyors will be taking measurements with a snooper truck underneath the bridge deck. The snooper needs access to the outside edges of the bridge to do the work.

Bike lanes and sidewalk will be closed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The eastbound bike lanes and sidewalks will be closed the first half of the week, and the westbound the latter half of the week.

Pedestrians can cross the bridge on the sidewalk that is open. A signed detour will be provided.
Bicyclists  should use road lanes during this closure.

Drivers should pay extra attention for redirected bicyclist and pedestrians in the area during this closure. Share the road signs will be posted on the bridge.

Vehicle traffic will be maintained in both directions during this work.

David Frank Named New Director of City of Minneapolis Economic Policy and Development

Via an April 6 Press Release from the City of Minneapolis:

David Frank Named New Director of City of Minneapolis Economic Policy and Development

Monday, April 6, 2015 (Minneapolis, MN) – Today, City of Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) Director D. Craig Taylor announced his appointment of David Frank as the new Director of Economic Policy and Development.

“David has been an outstanding and stellar member of our team here at the City for a number of years,” said Mayor Betsy Hodges. “He brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and a shared vision for ensuring all people are contributing to, and benefiting from, our economic development and prosperity. I look forward to his leadership in this new role at the City.”

“I am constantly amazed at the level of talent and commitment we have in our economic development team,” said Council Member Lisa Goodman. “David is proven leader with the right mix of private and public sector development experience to lead this important division at the City.”

As CPED’s Manager of Transit Oriented Development, Frank has managed and coordinated the City’s transit oriented development activities since 2011.  He has played instrumental roles in the City’s efforts to reopen Nicollet at Lake Street, redesign Nicollet Mall, and redevelop the Midtown Farmers Market site while maintaining a focus on advancing the equity and development goals for the City.  Prior to working for the City, Frank served as the Director of Development at Schafer Richardson, Inc.

“David has proven he has a strong understanding of what Minneapolis needs to support investment that grows businesses, jobs and the City’s tax base.  He is excited and committed to working with our great Economic Development team to leverage current and find new resources to achieve these goals,” said D. Craig Taylor Director of Community Planning and Economic Development for the City of Minneapolis. “I am confident that with his 20 plus years of real estate and development experience and excellent track record working across the enterprise and with stakeholders on complex projects, he will do an excellent job.”

As Director of Economic Policy and Development, Frank will manage CPED’s division of Economic Policy and Development which includes the department’s divisions of Business Development, Business Licensing, and Minneapolis Employment and Training.  Some of the key programs run by these divisions include Great Streets, which cultivates and sustains Minneapolis’ commercial districts through systematic programming, the Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP), which provides business consulting services to support new business development, retention and growth to small and medium sized businesses, and STEP-UP, Minneapolis’ jobs program for youth ages 14-21.

“I am so pleased to have David Frank step into this role to lead our Economic Development team,” said Council Member Lisa Bender. “David’s experience and vision will help harness the creative energy of our whole community to build on our assets and create a better future for Minneapolis.”

The division of Economic Policy and Development includes a staff of approximately 65.

“I am glad to have this chance to work with our great team on the City’s efforts to grow employment and business development opportunities for everyone in Minneapolis,” said David Frank. 

Frank currently serves on the 2020 Partners Steering Committee, as the President of the North Loop Neighborhood Association and as a Board Member of the Minnesota Fringe Festival.  In 2009, he was appointed by the City Council to serve on the Ballpark Implementation Committee.  Frank also guest lectures at the University of Minnesota and other local organizations on urban design, historic preservation, planning and development issues.

In the News / Public Realm Topics - April 6, 2015

Public Realm topics in the news last week:

Minneapolis Seeks Owner’s Rep for Downtown East Commons

Dreaming of a Food Marketplace In Downtown Minneapolis

Mpls Opens its Last Barge Shipping Season

Northside's Industrial Isthmus: Motley Factories, Wholesalers — And The Port Of Minneapolis

Graco Might Build On Leased Minneapolis Parkland

As Riverfront Booms, Officials Seek Long View at Historic Mill Complex

Minneapolis Residents Could Vote On Park Funding

Minneapolis RiverCurrent 4-2-15

*****Check These Out*****

River Hub Event Site

The folks at Mill City Times recently launched River Hub, the most complete (they believe) listing of events related to the Minneapolis riverfront on the web. The goal with River Hub is to serve the large community of people passionate about our riverfront by helping you stay up-to-date on events impacting the river AND to serve event planners by helping to avoid scheduling conflicts with other river-related events to the extent possible. River Hub is a very simple site - just an activities list and a page for readers to submit events. That's it. There are plenty of great sources for general riverfront news, but they wanted to make RH as easy to use as possible, so they decided to focus on just one thing. Back in 2010 Mill City Times was launched as a simple web directory of local businesses, mainly because as new residents of the Riverfront they needed a resource for our own use (none existed). It quickly took on a life of its own and has been growing ever since. As they've become more engaged with Riverfront planning and advocacy, they spend an inordinate amount of time just trying to stay in the loop. Dozens of websites are checked weekly just to stay on top of things, and they figured they might as well make use of that effort. So, out of passion and a little bit of frustration, River Hub was born: http://www.riverhub.org/

Aerial of Redevelopment Planned and Under Way

Courtesy of Mill City Times, here’s an aerial view of development projects in the Mill District Neighborhood of Downtown Minneapolis: https://youtu.be/uZ74eDnjfHc

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

Crunch’s Wolves Run

Saturday, April 4, 9 am

Boom Island, 724 Sibley Street NE

You’re invited to join the 7th Annual 5K Run and Kids Fun Run. All registrations include a ticket to the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Fan Appreciation game on April 15 at 7 pm at Target Center. Participants also will get a chance to purchase additional game tickets at a reduced price, receive a commemorative race t-shirt and meet the Timberwolves mascot Crunch! For information and to register: http://www.active.com/mineapolis-mn/running/distance-running-races/crunch-s-wolves-run-2015.

North Loop Candy Grab

Saturday, April 4, 9:30 am

North Loop Playground, Fourth Avenue North and West River Parkway

This annual event will include prize eggs (age-specific hunts) and games and will be held rain or shine. Free admission. Sponsored by Corner Church and the North Loop Neighborhood Association. https://www.facebook.com/events/497643080299928/

A Sip of Science: Keeping the Flying Carp Grounded: Optimizing Mississippi River Lock and Dams to Block Silver and Bighead Carp

Wednesday, April 8, 5:30 pm

Aster Café, 125 Main Street SE

A SIP OF SCIENCE bridges the gap between science and culture in a setting that bridges the gap between brain and belly. Food, beer and learning are on the menu in a happy hour forum that puts science in context through storytelling. Silver (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead (H. nobilis) carps (collectively known as “Asian carp”) are reproducing as far north as Pool 19 near Keokuk, Iowa, and threaten to expand northward into Minnesota waters where few have been caught to date. In 2014, researchers at the University of Minnesota, led by Dr. Peter Sorensen, began work on a project aimed at optimizing the Upper Mississippi River lock and dam systems for blocking Asian carp through gate modifications while using acoustic deterrents in locks. The first objective of the project combines computational modelling with experimental swimming tests to identify changes to gate operation that might inhibit passage of Asian carp while having minimal impacts on native fish. The second objective seeks to develop and test acoustic deterrents to keep Asian carp out of lock chambers (sound is ideal for this effort as Asian carp are more sensitive to sound than most native fishes, and thus can be targeted in a species-specific manner). This presentation will provide a brief primer on Asian carp in the U.S. and details on how locks and dams might be turned into velocity and acoustic barriers for Asian carp, including the installation and function of an acoustic deterrent system at Lock and Dam #8 (Genoa, Wisconsin). Presenter Dr. Zielinski is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center specializing in ecohydraulics, underwater acoustics and numerical modeling. The talk takes place during happy hour at the Aster Café. No cover; food and drink will be available for purchase. Please RSVP to: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/april-sip-of-science-keeping-the-flying-carp-grounded-optimizing-mississippi-river-lock-and-dams-to-tickets-16382274825?aff=affiliate1.

Friends of the Mississippi River presents:

State of the River

Saturday, April 11, 11 am – 12 noon

Fulton Brewery Taproom, 414 Sixth Avenue North

How is the health of the Mississippi River? Can I safely swim in it? Can I eat the fish I catch? What can we do about silver and other invasive carp? How are bald eagles faring? To answer these questions, Friends of the Mississippi River partnered with the National Park Service's Mississippi National River and Recreation Area unit to develop the "State of the River Report." Join the report's principal authors -- FMR Watershed Program Director Trevor Russell and MNRRA Water Quality Coordinator Lark Weller -- at Fulton Brewery for this brief overview of the report's key findings. From invasive "flying" carp to bacterial contamination, from eagles to swimability, Trevor and Lark will spend the first half-hour quickly highlighting the most important trends and emerging issues as well as potential solutions. The second half-hour will be reserved for an informal Q & A session. To make sure everyone has a chance to ask questions, and due to limited seating, capacity is limited and advance registration is required. For more information and to register: http://fmr.org/participate/events/state_of_the_river-2015-04-11.

Whiskey on Ice

Sunday, April 12, 1:30 – 8 pm

The Depot, 225 Third Avenue South

Whiskey On Ice is Minnesota's premier whiskey celebration. It will bring together nearly 100 distilleries from around the world for an evening Grand Tasting for 500 whiskey lovers. In addition, four Whiskey Masterclass tasting seminars will be held in advance of the Grand Tasting, each focusing on a particular whiskey portfolio. Attendees also will enjoy special amenities such as the Ashton Cigar and Cocktail Lounge, complementary food and water stations, as well as select beers from Surly Brewing Company. For more information and tickets: http://www.whiskeyonicemn.com/about-the-venue.html.

Kroening Interpretive Center Programs (Three Rivers Park District)

North Mississippi Regional Park, 4900 Mississippi Court

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

My Preschooler & Me: Nature Explorers - Mud is My Home

Tuesday, April 14, 10 – 11:30 am

Introduce your little one to the wonders of nature through hands-on play, stories, games, and outdoor exploration. Cost is $5, and reservations are required; reference activity #216903-07. This program is for ages 2-5 and both adult and child pay.

Heron Homecoming and Shuttle

Wednesday, April 15, 9:30 -- 11:30 am, or 12:30 -- 2:30 pm

Celebrate the spring return of the great blue herons. Discover the lives and travels of these magnificent birds through a digital photo journal. Shuttle to the rookery, and watch as these birds work rebuilding nests and settling in. Refreshments provided. Cost is $5, and reservations are required; reference activity #216917-02 for the morning shuttle, or #216917-03 for the afternoon shuttle. This program is for ages 16+. http://www.threeriversparks.org/events/H/heron-homecoming-and-shuttle.aspx

Global Youth Service Day - Independent Projects

Park and River Cleanup

Friday, April 17, 9 am – 3 pm (drop in any time)

Saturday, April 18, 10 am – 4 pm (drop in any time)

Help clean up what winter left behind. This project must be done with an adult leader. Registration required. To register: http://www.threeriversparks.org/events/G/global-youth-service-day---independent-projects.aspx. Groups must call 763-559-6700 to register.

Earth Day at Three Rivers: Pollinators and River Clean-up

Saturday, April 18, 10 am – 12 noon

Celebrate the 45th anniversary of Earth Day! Explore the buzz on bumble bees. Taste wild honey, and try on a beekeeper suit. Safely uncover leaf-cutter bee nest boxes, and peek into their hidden lives. Make a nest box to take home. Help pollinators by picking up trash in their homes along the riverbanks and prairie. Take a selfie with your favorite trash treasure. Drop in anytime. This program is free and open to all ages. Children 17 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Free Family Fun Day: Voyageur Life

Sunday, April 19, 1 – 3 pm, ongoing

Drop in anytime! Explore a different topic each week through hands-on activities that everyone can enjoy at their own pace. What was a day in the life of a voyageur? Dress up like these fur traders of the North Country and learn to play games and paddle, too. Weather permitting, we will cook up a yummy treat, voyageur-style. This program is free and open to all ages, but children younger than 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

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

1011 Washington Avenue South, 612-215-2520, http://www.mnbookarts.org.

Hours: Monday 10 am -- 5 pm, Tuesday 10 am -- 9 pm, Wednesday-Saturday 10 am -- 5 pm, Sunday 12 noon – 4 pm

Class details, instructor biographies, registration details and online registration are all available at above web site. You may also register by calling 612-215-2520. Note: This is only a sampling of classes, focusing on those that are less expensive and that don’t require experience.

Book Arts Roundtable with artist-in-residence Susan Lowdermilk

Tuesday, April 14, 6 pm

Susan Lowdermilk is a book artist and printmaker, based in Eugene, Oregon. Her work includes woodcut, wood engraving and etching, and she teaches courses in printmaking, artist books and graphic design at Lane Community College in Eugene. Lowdermilk holds a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Oregon and her work is in many public collections including the University of Oregon Special Collections, the Getty Museum, the Library of Congress and the New York Public Library. Lowdermilk will be working in MCBA's studio in April and May 2015, completing a pop-up LED book of Emily Dickinson poetry. Join us for this Roundtable to meet the artist and learn more about her exciting and innovative work! This event is free and open to the public.

Kirie: The Japanese Art of Paper Cutting

with Sheila Asato

Five Wednesdays: April 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13; 6 – 9 pm

In this class we will explore the Japanese art of Kirie (paper cutting) which has been experiencing a bit of a boom in Japan lately. Think of Kirie as drawing with an X-Acto knife. It is a very direct method of creating bold, satisfying designs in paper that work nicely in books, as well as for printmaking. Through the practice of Kirie, participants will learn how to see the beauty of line, contrast and negative spaces in a new and dynamic way that will enliven their work in book arts and beyond. No previous drawing or art experience is necessary to enjoy this lovely art form. All skill levels welcome. $240 ($220 members) + $15 supply fee.

Printing on the Iron Hand Press

with Bill Myers

Saturday and Sunday, April 18 and 19; 10 am – 5 pm

One of the most versatile printing presses for artists is the classic iron hand press. We will explore the many kinds of printing we can do on the two historic examples at MCBA, from fine press printing to designs with wood type and even monoprints. We will practice printing in multiple colors with one impression as well as a technique for producing different densities of tone on different areas of a block. You will design and print your own edition from wood or metal type. All skill levels welcome. $220 ($200 members) + $65 supply fee.

Steve J. Berger POETIC PAINTINGS

Opening artist reception: Thursday, April 16, 5 – 8 pm

Gallery One OST, 800 Washington Avenue North, Suite 514

Steve Berger is a storyteller who captures memories and visually conveys them. Berger is heralded for creating paintings of fine poetic sensibility and for his virtuoso draftsmanship. Berger believes that to have an impact, art should evoke a memory, an emotion – something to be lived over and over every time that you view the work. Berger’s paintings are very detailed; this is particularly evident in his minute blades of grass with nuances of light and shadow made possible by painstakingly layering acrylic paint. Berger’s stories are about every day common things – a walk, a place, a workplace, a gift, a meal – all little things but pieces that connect everyone’s personal life mosaic to each other. His stories connected to other stories waiting to be shared and painted. This is why Berger often paints in a series which unfold to tell an even bigger story. Berger’s love of history also shows in many of his works, whether it’s a particular building, person, event or place in time.

Sample of Activities and Classes at The Loft

1011 Washington Avenue South

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

Mentor Series Reading: Ru Freeman

Friday, April 17, 7 pm

The 2014–15 Loft Mentor Series in Poetry and Creative Prose presents fiction mentor Ru Freeman reading along with program participants Kate Lucas (poetry) and S.A. Wolter (fiction). Ru Freeman was born into a family of writers and many boys in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Her creative work has appeared or is forthcoming in VQR, Guernica, World Literature Today and elsewhere. She is a contributing editorial board member of the Asian American Literary Review and a fellow of the Bread Loaf Writer’s Conference, Yaddo, and the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts. She is the author of the novel A Disobedient Girl (Atria/Simon & Schuster, 2009), which was long-listed for the DCS Prize for South Asian Literature and translated into several languages. Her new novel, On Sal Mal Lane, was published by Graywolf Press in 2013. She calls both Sri Lanka and America home and writes about the people and countries underneath her skin. Kate Lucas works as a writer and educator in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her poems and essay writing have appeared in sleet magazine; rock, paper, scissors; Studio One; and the anthology From the Pews in the Back, and she received an Honorable Mention in the 2013 Loft Mentor Series for Poetry. She received her MFA from Hamline University and served as assistant poetry editor for Water~Stone Review in 2014. S. A. Wolter spent her childhood on a cattle ranch and farm in northwestern North Dakota. Following career opportunities and paychecks, she has lived most of her adult life in the metropolitan areas of Phoenix, Arizona, and Minneapolis/Saint Paul, Minnesota. She was a 2013 recipient of a Minnesota Artist Initiative Grant in prose. Her writing credits include the Jonis Agee Award for Fiction in Dust & Fire: Writing and Art by Women and publication in Open to Interpretation: Intimate Landscape, a juried book competition of photographs, poetry and prose. She currently resides in Eden Prairie with her husband, two teenage children and her writing companion, a small dog named Macy.

Next Generation Parks Lecture: University of Minnesota 3.x: Where is Nature Now? Symposium

Friday, April 17, 7 pm (reception at 6 pm)

Northrop, 84 Church Street SE, Best Buy Theater

Through the Minneapolis Parks Foundation’s Next Generation of Parks™ Lecture Series, global design innovators and local thought-leaders showcase the most exciting new parks destinations and delve into important issues affecting our vibrant city and region. The 2015 series features impressive talent and dynamic speakers from across the county and around the world – including our own backyard. This opening event in the series will feature Kate Orff, Founder and Principal, SCAPE Landscape Design, and 2014 Buckminster Fuller Institute Challenge winner. This is free public event, but seating is limited. For more information and to register: http://mplsparksfoundation.org/projects/lecture-series/.

Æbleskive Breakfast

Sunday, April 19, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Danish American Center, 3030 West River Parkway South

You’re invited to join the Danish American Center for their æbleskive breakfast in the remodeled dining room. Cost for the “all you can eat” breakfast is $8.50 per adult and $5.00 for children ages 5-12; younger children are free. Breakfast includes æbleskiver (i.e. Danish pancake balls), scrambled eggs, sausage, juice and coffee.

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

Live Action Set presents:

The Half Life

May 1 – May 31

Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Avenue South

Every Live Action Set production is an exploration in curiosity and artistic rigor. The Half Life is no exception. Inspired by the modern individual's desire to be connected to everyone at all times, the performance focuses on those of us who live in-between, in a place where hearts and minds wrestle with opposing gravitational forces and when time and memory feels like a disappearing act, vanishing one half of one half of one half at a time. Visual and visceral, highly trained dancers bring the often meditative, sometimes unsettling and always revealing moments to light. Ranging from nuanced to extreme, the intense specific physicality blends with clear intentionality to create an evocative and touchingly personal journey. For information and tickets: https://southern.ticketworks.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=14.

Black Label Movement presents:

The Illumination

May 7 -- 9

Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Avenue South

NYC-based Director/Choreographer Scott Rink's new 60-minute work The Illumination is a dance/theatre/music adaptation from the written works of the French poets Paul Verlaine and Arthur Rimbaud. Through their own writing (poems, letters and court transcripts), The Illumination tells the tortured tale of their ultimately destructive relationship during the late-19th century. This impressionistic hybrid work is set to the music of Claude Debussy and Benjamin Britten, performed live by soprano Patricia Kent and pianist Joe Strachan. Recommended for mature audiences only due to adult themes and language. For information and tickets: https://southern.ticketworks.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=13.

Theatre Forever presents:

Good Job Horses

May 15 – 29

Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Avenue South

directed by Jon Ferguson

A new play celebrating the beauty and power of lady. Part adventure comedy, part absurdist heartbreak. With horses and hot lava, romance, rebuttal and revenge. Created by the ensemble in collaboration with writer Kate Tarker, and featuring performers Charlotte Calvert, Ryan Patrick, Kate Tarker and Carly Wicks. Original sound and music by Dan Dukich, Assistant direction by Lauren Rae Anderson. Recommended for mature audiences only (14+) due to adult content and language. For information and tickets: https://southern.ticketworks.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=15.

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

Survey on West River Parkway Repairs

You’re invited to take a survey regarding the design of the permanent repairs of the slope failure/mudslide along West River Parkway that occurred on June 19, 2014. The survey can be found at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XW38ZS9. The project will be bid in mid-April and repairs are scheduled to begin in mid-June. Construction is expected to take 3 - 4 months. West River Parkway will re-open when repairs are complete.

A-Mill Artist Lofts Hydroelectric Project FERC License Application

Minneapolis Leased Housing Associates IV, Limited Partnership is seeking a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) minor license to construct and operate the A-Mill Artist Lofts Hydroelectric Project, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on the east bank of the Mississippi River at the Upper St. Anthony Falls. The proposed project would operate in a run-of-river fashion, utilizing existing water rights and infrastructure to generate approximately 600 kW of electricity for use by residents of a related apartment redevelopment. On March 23, 2015, Minneapolis Leased Housing Associates IV, Limited Partnership filed a Final License Application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission regarding the A-Mill Artist Lofts Hydroelectric Project under Project Number 14628. As presented in the Final License Application, Minneapolis Leased Housing Associates IV, Limited Partnership has diligently consulted with both Federal and State agencies and has completed a fish entrainment and mortality study, a mussel survey, a study of hydraulic modeling of the downstream channel, a tunnel conditions report, an infrastructure removal and restoration plan, an environmental assessment and a sediment testing plan in relation to agency and public requests. Complete copies of the Final License Application and related studies are available at the Minneapolis Central Library located at 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, Minnesota; at the offices of Minneapolis Leased Housing Associates IV, Limited Partnership at 2905 Northwest Boulevard Suite 150, Plymouth, Minnesota during regular business hours; and on FERC’s website under docket number P-14628. Additionally, the Final License Application is available within the document center of amillartistloftshydroproject.com by using the password “hydro.” If the application is found acceptable for filing, the Commission will publish subsequent notices. Questions or comments regarding the Final License Application for the A-Mill Artist Lofts Hydroelectric Project may be directed to Owen Metz (ometz@dominiuminc.com or 763-354-5618) or Neal Route (nroute@dominiuminc.com or 763-354-5640). Interested parties may submit comments to the Secretary of the Commission in accordance with filing procedures posted on the FERC’s Web site at http://www.ferc.gov/. Comments must reference Project Number 14628.

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

Horse and Carriage Tours

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

Acme Comedy Club

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

708 North First Street

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

Murder Mystery Dinner

Old Spaghetti Factory, 233 Park Avenue

The Murder Mystery Company offers a murder mystery performance to accompany your dinner at the Old Spaghetti Factory.

Snag your seat with The Murder Mystery Company by clicking or calling (888)643-2583 (CLUE) today. For information and tickets: http://www.grimprov.com/Murder-Mystery-Dinner-Minnesota/.

Classes Available at the Lundstrum Center

Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts, 1617 North Second Street

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

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

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

Keegan’s Pub Entertainment

Keegan’s Irish Pub, 16 University Avenue NE

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

Classes at Surdyk’s

Mondays and Tuesdays

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

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

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

Visitors and residents of the Twin Cities can now have a national park experience 24 hours a day with Ranger on Call, a new virtual tour of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Ranger on Call is an audio guide to exploring some of the park’s most special places. The guide features a series of 20 stops designed to expand users’ knowledge of the Mississippi River and provoke exploration. Users can listen to stories from all along the 72-mile corridor of the national park, and download podcasts and maps online at http://www.rangeroncall.com. Or, for an all-encompassing park experience, users can visit the featured sites along the river in person and dial 1-877-727-1172 (toll free) for the cell phone tour. Ranger on Call features narration by Don Shelby, who brings to life the stories from diverse communities along the river. Tour stops feature the Minneapolis Riverfront, Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary and Lock and Dam #2 in Hastings. Ranger on Call was created by the National Park Service and the Mississippi River Fund. http://www.nps.gov/miss.

Nice Ride Minnesota Bike Rentals

Bikes are now available for rental at the various Nice Ride Minnesota kiosks (which includes numerous locations along the riverfront). It’s a great way to explore the River! For information: http://www.niceridemn.org.

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

Minneapolis Historical Mobile Tour Smartphone App Now Available

The Minneapolis Historical Mobile Tour app is now available--for free!--for iPhones and Androids. There are two tours so far: The Old Highland tour (created in partnership with the Old Highland Neighborhood Association) and the Marcy-Holmes tour (created with the Marcy-Holmes Neighborhood Association). The app offers users an on-the-go look into Minneapolis's past, from the well-known headlines to the forgotten tales and people. Learn more and download it now at www.minneapolishistorical.org. The Marcy-Holmes tour tells stories of the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood—what was once the town of Saint Anthony Falls—from 1849 through the early twentieth century, using images, text and recorded commentary from 27 neighbors and friends. Created using material drawn from Penny Petersen’s book, Hiding in Plain Sight: Minneapolis’ First Neighborhood, the tour focuses on 24 historical sights depicted in the bronze sculptures on the Sixth Avenue Stroll, an outdoor gallery created by artist Aldo Moroni in 2004 that extends from University Ave SE to Main Street. Each stop on the tour consists of a present day image of the site, the corresponding bronze sculpture, an historic image (when available), brief text and two audio recordings by an individual somehow related to the site.

Park Board Event Calendar

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

Mill City Times

http://www.millcitytimes.com

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

Mississippi River Trail

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

1 Mississippi Campaign

http://1mississippi.org/

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

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

Prescribed Burns at North Mississippi Regional Park

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) wants to alert park and trail users of prescribed burns of the prairie areas of North Mississippi Regional Park from mid-March to May 2015. The prescribed burns will be conducted by Prairie Restorations, Inc. (PRI), a contractor for the MPRB. Park users may see smoke and flames during a prescribed burn. The contractor will have MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) trained staff on site along with the necessary fire control equipment. The contractor has obtained all necessary permits required for a prescribed burn. City of Minneapolis Police, Fire and 911 as well as State Highway Patrol, MPRB police and customer service are notified prior to and upon completion of the burn. Prescribed burns are one of the management tools used to maintain native plantings. When fire is suppressed, invasive shrubs and trees can invade these natural areas, out-competing the desirable native wildflowers and grasses. Specific weather and environmental conditions must be met to implement a prescribed burn including: the optimal prevailing wind direction, humidity levels and cloud cover conditions. Additionally, no MN Pollution Control Agency (PCA) issued air quality alerts or MN DNR burning restrictions may be in effect at the time of the burn. Information on the MPRB’s natural areas and management can be found on the web at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/park_care__improvements/natural_areas/prescribed_burns/.

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

Whiskey on Ice

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/taste/297551701.html

Spoon and Stable James Beard Nomination

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/taste/297551151.html

The Food Building

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/taste/297551671.html

Nye’s Site Redevelopment

http://kstp.com/article/stories/S3746280.shtml

http://www.startribune.com/business/297716331.html

Barging Season Opens

http://www.startribune.com/local/south/297527601.html

West River Parkway Repair Input Sought

http://kstp.com/article/stories/S3747948.shtml

Update on CenterPoint Project

http://kstp.com/article/stories/S3747627.shtml

30 Days of Biking

http://kstp.com/article/stories/S3747888.shtml

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2015/03/26/experience-twin-cities-trails-with-30-days-of-biking-challenge/

Red Stag Supperclub

http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2015/03/26/red-stag-northeast-minneapolis-building-sold.html

Star Tribune Building

http://www.mprnews.org/story/2015/03/26/star-tribune-moves-to-new-building?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+MPR_LawJustice+%28Law+%26+Justice+from+Minnesota+Public+Radio%29

Washburn Crosby Preservation Plan

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/297948871.html

Riverfront Business Hollywood Fashion Secrets

http://www.startribune.com/business/297863181.html

Food Market Concept

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/taste/297794761.html

Superior Plating Development Proposal

http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/2015/03/here_are_the_latest_plans_for_gigantic_750-apartment_development_in_northeast_minneapolis.php

Road Closures

http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2015/03/27/hennepin-aveand-other-downtown-minneapolis-street.html

http://www.kare11.com/story/news/traffic/2015/03/29/minneapolis-road-closures-begin-monday/70648312/

Riverfront Business Mill City Fineries

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2015/03/28/mill-city-fineries-are-outfitting-necks-internationally/

Al Milgrom and MSP International Film Festival

http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/arts/2015/03/29/al-milgrom-introduces-film-and-history-generations

http://www.americantowns.com/mn/minneapolis/news/minneapolis-st-paul-international-film-festival-2015-22443362

Movie on I-35W Bridge Collapse

http://www.kare11.com/story/entertainment/2015/03/27/mn-made-film-on-bridge-collapse-opens-in-minneapolis/70557976/

Symphony Hydro

http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/297809531.html

Chicago and Washington/Thresher Square Redevelopment

http://kstp.com/news/stories/S3751156.shtml

30 Days of Biking Kick-Off Event

http://blogs.citypages.com/dressingroom/2015/03/come_rain_or_shine_30_days_of_biking_revels_in_two-wheeled_transit_video.php

River Hub

http://www.journalmpls.com/news-feed/mill-city-times-launches-riverfront-event-directory

Graco and Scherer Brothers

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/298224341.html

Superior Plating Site Redevelopment

http://www.startribune.com/blogs/298196711.html

Environmental Initiative Awards

http://www.startribune.com/local/yourvoices/298205341.html

Betty Danger’s Country Club

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/video/11312974-minneapolis-restaurant-offering-unique-way-to-eat-outside/

Andy Sturdevant Walks the North Side Above the Falls

http://www.minnpost.com/stroll/2015/04/northsides-industrial-isthmus-motley-factories-wholesalers-and-port-minneapolis?utm_source=MinnPost+e-mail+newsletters&utm_campaign=6c6a68333a-4_1_2015_Daily_Newsletter4_1_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_3631302e9c-6c6a68333a-123345102

Attachments areaPreview YouTube video Mill District Development Projects Flyby

New Arab American Theatre Works Launches Summer Festival in Minneapolis

Minneapolis (April 3, 2015) — This summer, New Arab American Theatre Works will produce a three-week festival of new Arab American productions by three locally accomplished Arab American theatre artists. Hosted by Mixed Blood Theatre in Minneapolis, this first-of-its-kind Twin Cities festival will run June 26 - July 12, 2015.

New Arab American Theatre Works is a new collective of Minnesota-based Arab American theatre artists founded by Taous Claire Khazem, Kathryn Haddad, and Mohammed Yabdri. With a wide variety of strengths as writers, performers, educators, and theatre makers, these artists have been presenting work locally, nationally, and internationally for more than 20 years. New Arab American Theatre Works was created to present new works by Arab Americans, filling a void in the local and national theatre scene where Arab American artists lack opportunities to present their own stories.

Three new works will be produced for the festival, and will run in repertory June 26 and July 12:

Road to the City of Apples
By Kathryn Haddad

Road to the City of Apples tells the story of Ahmed and Khairy — two undocumented Palestinians on a road trip from New Jersey to Wisconsin. Their individual stories intertwine as they discover the meaning of friendship and cope with changing cultural norms — both American and Arab on their winding road to an American dream. The Israeli occupation, gay rights, American treatment of Arabs and Muslims, and the plight of undocumented immigrants are explored in this show.

In Algeria They Know My Name
By Taous Claire Khazem. Directed and dramaturged by Zaraawar Mistry

This one woman show is based on Khazem’s experiences and interactions living in Algeria from May 2008 to August 2011. She explores intercultural communication, cross-cultural marriage, trying to make a living as an artist in Algeria, and living with the in-laws. 

A Clown in Exile
By Mohammed Yabdri with Noah Bremer

Mohamed Yabdri's tragic clown goes on a journey to overcome his sense of cultural inferiority. After searching the world for a place to call home, he discovers that his dreams sit on the wings of a paper plane. A Clown in Exile premiered at the Alliance Française in Minneapolis, MN and went on to perform in Paris at the Algerian Cultural Center, at the National Theatre of Algiers, at the French Cultural Institutes of Oran, Tlemcen and Constantine, Algeria, and at the 2013 Minnesota Fringe Festival.

These three works will present a diverse range of perspectives about the Arab experience for audiences. The core group of artists come from diverse backgrounds, including Lebanese, Berber, Arab, Algerian, White American, Christian, and Muslim. Arab Americans in the community will have an opportunity to see themselves represented on stage and those from outside the community will see representations of Arabs by Arabs. The festival will also give new perspectives to the public when thinking about the meaning of “Arab,” “Middle Eastern,” and “Muslim.”

The New Arab American Theatre Works Festival runs June 26 - July 12, 2015 at Mixed Blood Theatre, 1501 S. 4th Street, Minneapolis. More information is available at newarabamericantheatreworks.com. Tickets will go on sale on May 26. Tickets are $15 per show, free for residents of 55454 area code, $35 for a 3 show pass, or $25 for a 2 show pass.

Each weekend will include all three productions with audience talkbacks after performances.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Taous Claire Khazem is a fiscal year 2015 recipient of an Artist Initiative grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature; and by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

"The Public Domain" about Four Survivors of the 35W Bridge Collapse Now Playing at the Lagoon Cinema

Filmed in Minnesota, The Public Domain is set five years after the 2007 35W bridge collapse. The lives of four people, impacted by the tragedy and on the run from their personal demons, intersect in a waterfront bar operating in the shadow of the bridge.  The name of the bar is THE PUBLIC DOMAIN.

Playing thru April 9 at the Lagoon Cinema.

We're a Week Away from the 34th Annual MSPIFF!

More info

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area Announces Array of Events to Celebrate National Park Service Centennial and National Park Week

Via a March 31 News Release from the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area:

Mississippi National River & Recreation Area Joins Find Your Park Movement

National Park Service Kicks off Centennial Campaign, National Park Week

SAINT PAUL, MN – Writer Wallace Stegner called the National Park Service America’s best idea, and in 2016 that idea is turning 100. The Mississippi National River & Recreation Area – the greater Twin Cities own national park – is joining parks, programs and partners across the country in launching a campaign to celebrate the National Park Service’s Centennial and setting the stage for the agency’s second century.

Spearheaded by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, the centerpiece of the Centennial celebration is a public awareness and education campaign titled “Find Your Park.” With more than 400 national parks throughout the United States, including five in Minnesota, the campaign encourages everyone to explore, learn, discover, play and be inspired in all of our national parks (FindYourPark.com). Beyond vast landscapes, the campaign highlights historical, urban, and cultural parks, as well as the National Park Service programs that protect, preserve and share nature, culture, and history in communities nationwide.

The Mississippi National River & Recreation Area and its nonprofit partner the Mississippi River Fund will lead the Centennial campaign effort locally. Activities for all ages begin in 2015 and will continue throughout the National Park Service’s 100th anniversary year in 2016, including special events and opportunities for recreation, education, resource protection and enhancement, and volunteering.

“The Centennial and Find Your Park campaign represent a tremendous opportunity for the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area,” said John Anfinson, the park’s superintendent. “They will help us introduce this national park and all it has to offer those who don’t know us.”

“Find Your Park” is the theme for this year’s National Park Week, April 18 – 26. A schedule of local activities is available at nps.gov/miss or missfund.org. Here is a sample:

- Find Coldwater Spring. Walk the trials to Coldwater Spring and Reservoir, count how many migratory birds species you can see, or get your picture taken by a National Park entry monument, as individuals and families have done for generations. Address: 5601 Minnehaha Park Drive South, Minneapolis. Just south of Minnehaha Falls.

- Spring Flower Hunt (April 18, 9:00 a.m.). Join representatives from the Minnesota Native Plant Society and National Park Service at Coldwater Spring to discover spring ephemerals and other flowers at Coldwater Spring.

- Ranger on Call (anytime). A newly launched program in partnership with Nice Ride and the Mississippi River Fund. Whether you walk, ride your bike, or rent a Nice Ride, enjoy this audio tour that leads you along the pathways near the mighty Mississippi. Check out rangeroncall.com.

- Ranger River Talks (April 18, 19, 25, 26). Mississippi River Visitor Center at the Science Museum of Minnesota.

- Storytime with a Ranger (April 21, 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.) Mississippi River Visitor Center at the Science Museum.

- National Junior Ranger Day (April 25, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.). Make your own fishing lure, talk with “Jacques le Voyageur” about paddling the Mississippi before Minnesota became a state, learn how to properly fit a personal floatation device, or try dressing up like a Park Ranger, and earn your own Mississippi Junior Ranger badge. Mississippi River Visitor Center at the Science Museum.

- Earth Day in the City: Minneapolis River Gorge Cleanup (April 25, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., two locations). Hosted by Friends of the Mississippi River. See fmr.org/participate/events.

For more information on the local Centennial celebration and National Park Week and to get involved, visit nps.gov/miss or missriverfund.org.

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 407 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more

About the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area. The National Park’s 72-mile boundary stretches along the Mississippi River from Dayton and Ramsey, through Minneapolis and Saint Paul, to just south of Hastings. It includes a range resources, from historic sites like Fort Snelling and unique landmarks like St. Anthony Falls, to public parks, navigation structures and natural areas. While working to protect the river’s ecosystems and water quality, the park offers an array of educational activities. These include ranger-led canoe, biking and hiking programs and the school programs “Urban Wilderness Canoe Adventures” and “Big River Journey.” Find us at nps.gov/miss.

About the Mississippi River Fund. The mission of the Mississippi River Fund (MRF) is to strengthen the connection between people and the Mississippi River and to build support for the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Discover MRF at Missriverfund.org.

Long List of Neighborhood Restaurants are Participating in the April 30 Dining Out for Life®

Founded in 1985, The Aliveness Project is a local nonprofit organization and community center providing on-site meals, food shelf options, integrative therapies, and vital services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS throughout Minnesota. 75% of their members live in poverty and depend on The Aliveness Project for daily meals.

This year, 200 Participating Restaurants in the Twin Cities, Duluth, Lanesboro, and Mankato have agreed to donate a portion of their proceeds to The Aliveness Project.

Last year's Dining Out for Life raised over $257,000 in donations from generous restaurants, sponsors, and 37,000 individual diners. This April 30, the goal is $275,000 and 40,000 diners. 

In our riverfront neighborhoods, the following restaurants are participating:

Mattie's on Main, J.D. Hoyt's, Sawahtee Thai Restaurant, Wilde Roast Cafe, Zen Box Izakaya, Day Block Brewing Company, HauteDish, The Smack Shack, Black Sheep Pizza, The Butcher Block Restaurant, Ginger Hop Restaurant, Kramarczuk Sausage Co., North East Social, Red Stag Supperclub, Republic Seven Corners and Sapor Cafe/Bar.

In the News - March 30, 2015

Riverfront neighborhoods in the news last week:

HYDRO PROPOSAL AT ST. ANTHONY FALLS LOCK TRIES AGAIN

http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/297809531.html

HERE ARE THE LATEST PLANS FOR GIGANTIC 750-APARTMENT DEVELOPMENT IN NE MINNEAPOLIS

http://blogs.citypages.com/blotter/2015/03/here_are_the_latest_plans_for_gigantic_750-apartment_development_in_northeast_minneapolis.php

NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS BECOME OBSTACLE TO NYE'S REDEVELOPMENT

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/297716331.html

MINNEAPOLIS DEVELOPMENT: WE MUST EMBRACE CHANGE LIKE THE NYE'S SITE PROPOSAL

http://www.startribune.com/opinion/commentaries/297851841.html

DOWNTOWN EAST BETTING ON STADIUM MOMENTUM

http://www.startribune.com/local/minneapolis/297143131.html

NO DOCS NEEDED: U TO OPEN NURSE-LED CLINIC NEAR NEW VIKINGS STADIUM

http://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2015/03/24/university-minnesota-primary-care-minneapolis.html

U OF M NURSE PRACTITIONER CLINIC AIMS TO HELP FILL DOCTOR VOID

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/health/297468881.html

‘A’ MILL WILL SOON BE HOME TO ARTIST COMMUNITY

http://www.journalmpls.com/news-feed/%E2%80%98a%E2%80%99-mill-will-soon-be-home-to-artist-community

STREETSCAPES: NICOLLET MALL MAKEOVER MUST HONOR STREET'S PAST AND PRESENT

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/297812581.html

DREAMING OF A FOOD MARKETPLACE IN DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/taste/297794761.html

A New Resource for River Lovers

Today we launched River Hub, the most complete (we believe) listing of events related to the Minneapolis Riverfront on the web.  Our goal with River Hub is to serve the large community of people passionate about our riverfront by helping you stay up-to-date on events impacting the river, as well as Event Planners by helping to avoid scheduling conflicts with other river related events to the extent possible.

River Hub is a very simple site - just an activities list and a page for readers to submit events.  That's it.  There are plenty of great sources for general Riverfront news, but we wanted to make RH as easy to use as possible, so we decided to focus on just one thing.

Back in 2010 we launched Mill City Times as a simple web directory of local businesses, mainly because as new residents of the Riverfront we needed a resource for our own use (none existed).  It quickly took on a life of its own and has been growing ever since.  As we've become more engaged with Riverfront planning and advocacy, we spend an inordinate amount of time just trying to stay in the loop.  We check dozens of websites weekly just to stay on top of things.   We figured we might as well make use of that effort, just as we do with Mill City Times.

So, out of passion and a little bit of frustration, River Hub was born:

http://www.riverhub.org/

Traffic Alert - 5th Street Downtown Closure - Update

Via a March 27 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Four blocks of 5th Street close to traffic next week

Crews will be making changes that will improve how people get around downtown, whether they’re driving, walking or biking

On Monday, a section of 5^th Street South by the new stadium will close, and crews will begin modifying 6^th Street so it can handle that displaced traffic. In the meantime, drivers will need to follow posted detours.

The affected four-block section of 5^th Street South between Park Ave and 11^th Avenue is one-way westbound. It runs tandem to 6^th Street, which is now one-way eastbound. Along with closing 5^th Street to traffic, crews will add one westbound lane to 6^th Street. The new westbound lane of 6^th Street is expected to open by the end of the construction season, handling the traffic that used to use 5^th Street.

This work is being performed by the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, which is coordinating it with the City. After 5^th Street closes to traffic, crews will remove the roadway and make the area part of the stadium construction site. When the stadium project is completed, the area that was once 5^th Street will include off-street bike paths. The skewed intersections along 5th Street and the concrete and chain-link barrier presently separating 5^th Street and 6^th Street will be removed, making it easier for people on foot to get around.

During this construction, the City plans to add two new traffic signals on 6^th Street at 9^th Avenue and 10^th Avenue. These signals will include audible pedestrian signals, countdown pedestrian crosswalk timers and other features. Some existing signals will be similarly upgraded.

Currently, 5^th Street handles traffic exiting from westbound Interstate 94. A joint project by the City and the Minnesota Department of Transportation will move the exit ramp from 5^th Street to 7^th’Street. Since 7^th Street crosses the entire length of downtown, traffic exiting here will have better access to downtown Minneapolis events, stores, restaurants, businesses and other destinations. Construction of the new 7^th Street exit ramp will begin this summer, with the switch from 5^th Street exit to a 7^th Street exit taking place in summer 2016.

Click here for more information on these and other street construction projects.

Click here for real-time information for lane closures and construction in downtown Minneapolis.

Traffic Alert - Hennepin Ave/First Street Downtown

Via a March 27 City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Portions of Hennepin Avenue and First Street downtown close for utility work Monday

Closures will last for up to two weeks

Southbound Hennepin Avenue just south of the bridge over the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis will close to traffic on Monday, along with a block of Second Avenue North, so crews can upgrade utilities beneath the roadway.

CenterPoint Energy is in the process of replacing a natural gas distribution pipeline in downtown Minneapolis.

Starting Monday, March 30, the following streets will be closed:

• Southbound Hennepin Avenue will be closed at First Street for approximately one week. Traffic on southbound Hennepin Avenue will be detoured west onto First Street, then south onto First Avenue and then east on Washington Avenue. First Street will remain open to traffic during this construction.
• Second Avenue North will be closed from Second Street North to First Street North for two weeks.

The CenterPoint Energy project is expected to last much of the construction season and will involve more street closures and lane restrictions. For more information, go to CenterPoint Energy's construction zone website. 

Click here for updated information on street closures and lane restrictions throughout Minneapolis.

Click here for real-time information for lane closures and construction in downtown Minneapolis.

Bohemian Flats Exhibit Opens April 30 with Free Program at Mill City Museum

"Remembering the Bohemian Flats: One Place, Many Voices" explores the many perspectives on the people and the conditions of this early immigrant neighborhood adjacent to the Mississippi River.

Through photographs, newspaper clippings, maps and surveys, visitors can "journey" down the 79 steps from the bluffs to the flats, and see how a community in the middle of the city could simultaneously be at the margins of the river, of society, and of historical memory.

Exhibit opening, April 30, 6-8 p.m., at the Mill City Museum.

The exhibit will open with a program by State Archaeologist Dr. Scott Anfinson who will discuss urban archaeology projects along West River Parkway including Bohemian Flats, the Hennepin Avenue Bridge and the Federal Reserve Bank. University of Minnesota students Rachel Hines and Stefanie Kowalczyk will be on hand to discuss how they turned student research into an exhibit. Complimentary East European food from Kramarczuk’s and a cash bar by D’Amico Catering will be available.

"Remembering the Bohemian Flats: One Place, Many Voices" began as a senior thesis by University of Minnesota undergraduate Rachel Hines who earned the Elden Johnson Prize for the best senior thesis in archaeology. Three of Ms. Hines’s project advisors brought the project idea to a University collaborative sponsored by the Institute for Advanced Study and the Minnesota Historical Society. Undergraduate and graduate students delved into the local archives, and Rachel Hines and Stefanie Kowalczyk turned this wealth of research into an exhibit. A website featuring a blog and the student research papers will be available at http://riverlife.umn.edu/engagement/boflats_mcm_exh/.

"Remembering the Bohemian Flats: One Place, Many Voices" is located in the museum’s central Mill Commons, and is free and open to the public during regular museum hours. It is on view April 30-Nov. 1, 2015.

The exhibit is funded in part by the Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008.

MPRB Survey Re: West River Road Slope Failure/Mudslide

Via a March 26 Minneapolis Park and Rec Board e-newsletter:

Please take a survey regarding the design of the permanent repairs of the slope failure/mudslide along West River Parkway that occurred on June 19, 2014.  The survey can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XW38ZS9. 

The project will be bid in mid-April and repairs are scheduled to begin in mid-June.  Construction is expected to take 3 - 4 months.  West River Parkway will re-open when repairs are complete. 

Deborah Bartels, Registered Landscape Architect
Project Manager – Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
2117 West River Road
Minneapolis MN 55411 -2227
dbartels@minneapolisparks.org
612-230-6438 direct