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

Brianna Ojard
Associate Editor

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

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

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

Michael Rainville Jr.
History Columnist
Email Michael...

Doug Verdier
River Matters

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

Community Partners

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

MILL CITY FARMERS MARKET

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

Visit their website...

HENNEPIN HISTORY MUSEUM

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

Visit their website...

MEET MINNEAPOLIS

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

Visit their website...

MSP FILM SOCIETY

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

Visit their website...

GREAT RIVER COALITION

Enhancing the Minneapolis riverfront environment—for people and pollinators.

Visit their website...

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

Wednesday
Mar092011

Mill District Business Spotlight: Bierbrauer Chiropractic

I recently met with Dr. Chris Bierbrauer of Bierbrauer Chiropractic, located at 221 10th Avenue South in the Bridgewater Lofts building.   The soothing spa aroma puts you into relaxation mode as soon as you enter the office.  His website states it's "a new kind of Chiropractic care", and I quickly learned exactly what that meant. 

After earning his degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1995, Dr. Bierbrauer practiced in Green Bay, Chicago and Platteville.   All the while, he knew there was a better way to treat patients, and about 10 years ago he started looking at soft tissue work.   Since establishing his own practice here in the Mill District in November 2008, he now concentrates on two soft tissue methods - the Active Release Technique and the Graston Technique.  This is what sets Bierbrauer Chiropractic apart from other practices.

Below, Dr. Bierbrauer demonstrates how he uses specific tools to manipulate nerves at the muscle level.  This allows him to zero in on issues ranging from carpal tunnel syndrome to tennis elbow.  He cited an example of a patient suffering from "calf contracture" - her calf muscles were so tight they felt like bone, and she was unable to stand flat-footed.  Soft tissue treatments were the effective treatment for her.

Patients range from newborns to seniors, although a large percentage are athletes - runners, iron men, triathletes, skiers and weight lifters.  In fact, Dr. Bierbrauer's first patient was a pitcher from an AL Central Team in town for a game against the Twins.  Although his office wasn't officially open yet, he was sought out because of his ability to perform the tissue treatment needed for this professional athlete.

A colicky baby may be in need of a single adjustment to provide relief.  The birthing process can be tramatic - all the manipulating can cause immobility in the neck from the cranial nerve that comes off the brain stem. 

Dr. Bierbrauer explained the efficiency of soft tissue treatments.   He does not subscribe to the old ways of scheduling X visits per week for X number of weeks.  Rather, he spends more time with a patient during a visit, and only schedules a follow up if it's needed.  (So this old joke does not apply here: "How many chiropractors does it take to screw in a light bulb?  Only 1, but it takes 36 visits.")

Dr. Bierbrauer lives in North East with his wife, Missy Wilson, a Graphic Designer for Duffy & Partners (another Mill District business).

Tuesday
Mar082011

Tonight - Wine Seminar at Sorella Wine & Spirits

Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm 

Location: Sorella Wine & Spirits, 1010 Washington Avenue South

Reservations Required - 612-339-4040
 
Chris Griese - Sake Specialist - World Class Wines

Chris has just returned from another week of Sake studies in Japan where he completed Professional Sake Training Level II, with John Gauntner, noted sake author and expert at the National Sake Institute in Tokyo.

Chris is one of only 80 people worldwide to complete the class. We will be tasting some very special Sakes as Chris shares his travel tales and expertise.

Tuesday
Mar082011

The Newest Mill District Cornerstone - Mill City Commons

Today we issued a press release naming Mill City Commons the next Mill District Community Cornerstone award winner. Mill City Commons works tirelessly behind the scenes to connect our community and enrich the lives of members and the whole neighborhood.

According to Kim Eslinger, Editor of the Mill City Times, "More than any other organization, Mill City Commons works to connect the people, businesses and non-profit groups in the Mill District neighborhood".

"We were delighted when Dave Tinjum and Kim Eslinger from Mill City Times joined us for an exclusive sing-along with JD Steele at MacPhail Center for Music last fall. We learned that in addition to being fans of MacPhail, they share Mill City Commons commitment to providing unique connections, resources and support for life for our vibrant neighborhood" said Linnea Tweed, Executive Director, Mill City Commons.

View the press release...

Visit Mill City Commons...

Tuesday
Mar082011

Tonight - Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association Board Meeting

Time: 6:00pm

Location:  Central Public Library - Room N-202

DMNA board meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month. Anyone who lives, works or owns a business or property within the Downtown East and Downtown West neighborhoods is eligible for general membership in the DMNA.

The agenda for tonight's meeting is:

6:00pm Call to order and introductions
6:05pm Consideration of agenda
6:10pm Presentation regarding the Northern Spark summer festival scheduled for June 4, 2011, by Steve Dietz and Andrea Steudel
6:20pm Land Use Update
- Kaplan University (40 S. 7th Street) – Conditional Use Permit application for new signage; Presentation by Mary Ferraro
6:25pm NRP Implementation Report
- Update on City Council action with regards to the NRP Phase II Plan
  o Considered by Community Development Committee – February 15 – Approved
  o Considered by Ways and Means Committee – February 22 – Approved
  o Considered by City Council – February 25 – Approved
6:30 pm Neighborhood and Community Engagement Report (NCEC)
- Update on NCEC action on February 22, with regards to the DMNA 2011 Community
Participation Program application and budget
- Consideration of endorsing neighborhood proposal with regards to the NCEC election
process
6:35pm Consideration of minutes from the February 8, 2011 Board Meeting
6:40pm Consideration of March 2011 Financial Report
6:43pm Staff report presented by Christie Rock
6:45pm Downtown 2025 Update and discussion facilitated by Bob Parr, Downtown 2025 Plan Coordinator
8:00 pm Adjournment

Next DMNA Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12, 2011, at 6:00pm at the Central Library in Room N-202.

Monday
Mar072011

Tonight - Artist Don Holzschuh Opens Exhibit at The Sanctuary

From the Sanctuary Restaurant:

Sometimes, when I am out looking at art in the Twin Cities, I can't help but be struck by the near embarrassment of art riches around every corner.  Each Quarter, we like to let a few special pieces - done by a local artist - stand out on their own in our dining room.

Don Holzschuh is a well known artist from Minnesota who has done shows in other major US cities (e.g. New York!) as well as France, Germany, Holland and Belgium.  His works are in the collections of major corporations and individual homes in this country and overseas.  We are thrilled to show four of his Minneapolis scenes!  Learn more at www.donholzschuh.com.


Don will be at Sanctuary this coming Monday, March 7, 2011 from around 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. He'll be here with a few of his friends and family and would be happy to meet you as well!  Come see Don's art and, while you're here, enjoy one of Chef's new appetizers, one of our fab new martinis ~ or give yourself a treat and make a dinner reservation!  www.sanctuaryminneapolis.com

Monday
Mar072011

Pedestrian Advisory Committee Seeking Members - Application Review Process Begins April 4

Minneapolis' Pedestrian Advisory Committee, created 5 years ago, is charged with advising the Mayor and City Council on policies, programs and actions for improving pedestrian safety, mobility, accessibility and comfort; for promoting walking for transportation, recreation and health purposes; and for strengthening the linkage between the pedestrian environment and public transportation.

The committee is composed of 15 voting members who reside or own a business in the City and who have an interest in promoting walking and improving the pedestrian environment in Minneapolis.

There are eight Council-appointed vacancies for a term beginning July 1, 2011, and expiring June 30, 2013. These positions will remain open until filled, with the application review process to begin on Monday, April 4.

The committee also includes non-voting members from City Departments and partner agencies with an interest in and impact on pedestrian issues to provide expertise on pedestrian issues and to serve as a liaison between the committee and City departments and partner agencies.

Click here for more information, including the application process.

Sunday
Mar062011

The Benefits of Being a Mill City Commons Member - An Ongoing Series 

Dave and I became members of Mill City Commons in January.  We joined for a number of reasons, including the ability to attend interesting member-only events, meet fascinating people, and to have more of a hands on role in helping with their various fundraising activities. 

The next fundraising event to be hosted by Mill City Commons is coming up in a few weeks: Chefs for Change.  It takes place Monday night, March 21, at People Serving People, 614 South 3rd Street.

This special Chefs for Change dinner will be created by Brenda Langton of Spoonriverand feature bountiful garden hors d'œuvres, wine and discussion. The focus of discussion will be on urban gardening and the development of a rooftop garden at People Serving People. Attendees will experience the unique flavor of Spoonriver, as well as learn about issues affecting the local community.  You don't have to be a member of Mill City Commons to attend, but reservations are required.  In addition to doing something good for the community, this would be a great chance to meet current Mill City Commons members.

To learn more about Mill City Commons, please visit the website, or contact Linnea at 612-455-3329 or linneatweed@millcitycommons.org.

Sunday
Mar062011

Tonight - Michael Langham Memorial Service at The Guthrie

Time: 6:00pm

Location: Guthrie Theater, Wurtele Thrust Stage

A public celebration of the life and work of former Guthrie Artistic Director Michael Langham, who passed away on January 15, will take place Sunday, March 6, at the Guthrie.

Scheduled to pay tribute and share their memories of Langham are Guthrie Artistic Director Joe Dowling, board member Charles Zelle, director Stephen Kanee, production manager Jon Cranney, playwright Barbara Field, musician Dick Whitbeck and actors Barbara Bryne, Peter Michael Goetz, Helen Carey, Sally Wingert and Christina Baldwin.

Saturday
Mar052011

Countdown to May 7 Opening Day at the Mill City Farmers Market!

The 10-day weather forecast screams winter, but we're only 9 short weeks away from Opening Day at the 2011 Mill City Farmers Market!

Every Saturday until opening day, we'll be posting pictures from the 2010 MCFM to help get you in the mood...

 Mill City Farmers Market 2010

 Mill City Farmers Market 2010

Mill City Farmers Market 2010

Mill City Farmers Market 2010

 

Mill City Farmers Market 2010

Mill City Farmers Market 2010

See you there!  :D

Saturday
Mar052011

Today - Kitchen Harvests: World War I Tips for Getting the Most from Your Food at Mill City Museum

Location: Mill City Museum, 704 South Second Street

Times: Noon and 2:00pm

Featured tips in this demonstration include clever ways to pack more nutrition into food, how to turn seemingly useless scraps into meals and ways to get more from your food dollar.

Author Rae Katherine Eighmey will feature food and facts from her new book"Food Will Win the War: Minnesota Cooks, Crops, and Conservation during World War I."  Eighmey will demonstrate the preparation of whole wheat chocolate cookies, cornmeal and rice waffles, and meatcakes. Samples will be available. After each demonstration, copies of Eighmey's book will be available for purchase, and she will be available to sign them.

Friday
Mar042011

This Weekend in Mill City / March 4-6, 2011

Events this weekend in and around the Historic Mill District of Minneapolis and across the Stone Bridge in Old St. Anthony.

Friday, March 4

Ten Thousand Things' Doubt, A Parable at Open Book

Lunch With MacPhail

Monthly 1st Precinct Court Watch Meeting at Central Library

ARENA Dances at Southern Theater (3 nights)

David Holland String Master Class at MacPhail

Saturday, March 5

Origami Box Filled with Mini Books Class at MCBA

Kitchen Harvests: World War I Tips for Getting the Most from Your Food at Mill City Museum

David Holland String Master Class at MacPhail

Sunday, March 6

Michael Langham Memorial Service at The Guthrie

Guthrie Backstage Tour

Weekend Brunch

Saturday & Sunday

Brunch at Spoonriver
750 South 2nd St (at Chicago Ave S)
Minneapolis, MN 55401
612-436-2236

Reservations recommended

10:00am - 2:00pm

See the menu...

Saturday & Sunday

Brunch at the Aster Cafe
St. Anthony Main
125 SE Main Street
Minneapolis, MN 55414
612-379-3138

Until 2pm.

See the menu...

Sunday

Brunch at Spill the Wine
1101 Washington Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55415
612-339-3388

brunch buffet 10am- 2pm Sunday
$12/person (kids 3 and under eat free, 4-12 years are 1/2 price!)

includes: eggs, bacon, french toast, hash browns, fresh salad and fruit, pastries, build your own omlette bar and more...

featuring absolut bloody bar for $5.

also offering fair trade coffee and full bar.

Thursday
Mar032011

Idris Goodwin -- These Are The Breaks at The Loft

Time: 7:00pm

Location: The Loft, 1011 Washington Avenue South

Equilibrium Spoken Word: Idris Goodwin -- These Are The Breaks

Book release performance and celebration with Lisa Brimmer, Guante and Ed Bok Lee. Idris Goodwin is an award-winning playwright, poet and essayist who uses hip hop arts to create original genre-defying performances. His widely produced works have been supported by the The National Endowment for the Arts, The Ford Foundation, The National New Plays Network, The Hip Hop Theater Festival and The Illinois Arts Council. 

Wednesday
Mar022011

Signs of Mill City

Signs of the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Last summer.

Tuesday
Mar012011

Laughing Baby

This belongs on The Wire, but it's too good to bury.

Tuesday
Mar012011

Sonoma Wine Seminar at Sorella Wine & Spirits

Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm 

Location: Sorella Wine & Spirits, 1010 Washington Avenue South

Reservations Required - 612-339-4040
 
Sonoma Winemaking with a brief historical perspective by Kathy Jones of Heck Estates.

The talk will be illustrated with one dry rose and seven reds highlighting Sonoma's key varietals and distinct growing regions. We'll be tasting some special wines from Kenwood's Jack London Series along with some items from Valley of the Moon and finishing off with one very special surprise.

Monday
Feb282011

Viking Stadium Update: The city has the infrastructure and the transit. The only thing it needs is you know what.

Bad news for the Mill District and Downtown East neighborhoods - City Council Member Lisa Goodman does not sound very interested in keeping the Vikings downtown, saying in the Star Trib article:

"Professional sports are good for cities," she said. "There's the unquantifiable pat-on-the-back we all feel, knowing we're a four-sport town. But I'd rather have that for the best higher education, or the most children graduating from high school, or having more people housed. You can quantify that."

But at least she will only support a Vikings Stadium near the current Metrodome site, according to the article.

From the Star Tribune:

Minneapolis has the infrastructure, the transit links, the demonstrable success of Target Field, and encompasses most of the sites the Vikings are known to be considering for a new stadium.

But the city's quest to have that stadium built on its turf still appears to lack what it most needs -- money.

Read the full article...

Monday
Feb282011

Tonight - Paula Poundstone at the Guthrie

Time: 7:30 pm

Location: Guthrie Theater, Wurtele Thrust Stage

Appearing on stage with a stool, a microphone, and a can of Diet Pepsi, Paula Poundstone is famous for her razor-sharp wit and spontaneity. Paula's commentaries can be heard on NPR's Morning Edition and read on the Huffington Post, and she is one of the most popular panelists on NPR's hilarious weekly news quiz show, Wait Wait…Don't Tell Me. It's impossible to attend a Paula Poundstone performance without marveling at her ability to interact spontaneously with audience members, who leave her live shows often leave complaining that their cheeks hurt from laughter.

Sunday
Feb272011

Tweaking Exercise Routine to Enhance Marathon Training

This week I met Deb, who was already in great shape prior to seeking out a personal trainer.

As you'll learn in the video, Deb is now training for her first marathon.  Working with Andrea Austin will help assure her success.

Email Andrea at andrea@tweakmyworkout.com if you'd like to try a complimentary RealRyder spin class at 501SP1N, or if you have a fitness or nutrition question. 

Sunday
Feb272011

Tonight - MacPhail Spotlight Series: Keys of Love and Death

Time: 7:00pm
Location:  MacPhail Center for Music, Antonello Hall, 501 South 2nd Street

This collection of pieces thoughtfully weaves together the composers’ own stories of love and loss. Experience this unique piano concert that dramatically conveys the complex emotions of love and death through intricate and tender music.

More info...

Saturday
Feb262011

Today - Washburn A Mill Tour at Mill City Museum

Time: 1:00pm

Location: Mill City Museum

Fee: $12 adults, $10 seniors and college students, $8 children ages 6-17 and MHS members. Tour includes museum admission.

Reservations: required, call 612-341-7555

Get 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. Also covered will be the challenges of preserving the 120-year-old, fire-damaged building; its art, architecture and interior design; and the St. Anthony Falls Historic District.

Although many parts of the mill can be explored during regular museum visits, this is the public's only opportunity for a guided tour through the entire museum building.