It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

The Line - an Additional Source for Information About our Neighborhood

I recently subscribed to a weekly online magazine called The Line.  

The Line "tells the story of the new economy in The Twin Cities - a narrative of creative people and businesses, new development, cool places to live, and the best places to work and play." 

From a front page drop down menu, you can select what area of Minneapolis you'd like to read about.  For example, the December 15 edition had an article about The Soap Factory under the Riverfront/Mill District section.

While the Riverfront/Mill District section doesn't have frequent entries, it's still another interesting source for information about our neighborhood.

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Snow Emergency and Parking Restriction Updates

Just received this from Ruth at the office of City Council Member Lisa Goodman -

Minneapolis has declared a Snow Emergency beginning today, Dec. 20, 2010. To make the transition from Winter Parking Restrictions to Snow Emergency rules, drivers may start moving their cars off of Snow Emergency Routes and on to EITHER side of the non-Snow Emergency Routes beginning at 4 p.m. today, Dec. 20.

Winter Parking Restrictions, which ban parking on the EVEB side of non-Snow-Emergency routes, are not in effect during this Snow Emergency. However, beginning at 8 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 23, Winter Parking Restrictions will resume.

This latest Snow Emergency will be the 5th of the season. Minneapolis received more than 24 inches of snow in December, making it the 5th snowiest December recorded in the metro area.  Since more snow began falling this morning, City crews have been plowing and treating streets to keep them drivable. Now that a Snow Emergency has been declared, Snow Emergency parking restrictions will take effect beginning at 9 p.m., Monday, so crews can plow the 1,000 miles of streets as wide as possible. That’s the equivalent of 3,200 “lane miles” of streets that need to be plowed—enough to plow a lane from Minneapolis to Anchorage, Alaska.

It is imperative that drivers follow Snow Emergency rules and move their cars out of the ways of the plow. It’s in everyone’s best interest to follow the parking rules so plows can do the best job possible and folks can avoid a ticket and tow. Working together, City crews can deliver the high-quality plowing services that residents demand.

Snow Emergency parking rules
 
Last Night, Dec. 20 , 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.  (Day 1)
Do not park on EITHER side of a Snow Emergency route until the street is fully plowed (completely cleared and plowed to the full width of that side of the street).

Tonight, Dec. 21, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Day 2)
Do not park on the EVEN side of a non-Snow Emergency route, or on EITHER side of a parkway until the street is fully plowed.

Wednesday, Dec. 22, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Day 3)
Do not park on the ODD side of a non-Snow Emergency route until the street is fully plowed.

Thursday, Dec. 23 - 8 a.m. (“Day 4”) - Return to Winter Parking Restrictions
Between 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 23, and 8 a.m., Friday Dec. 24, people can begin moving their cars from the EVEN side of non-Snow Emergency Routes to the ODD side to be in compliance when the Winter Parking Restrictions resume at 8 a.m. During Winter Parking Restrictions, parking is banned on the EVEN SIDE of non-Snow Emergency Routes. Drivers still need to follow all posted NO PARKING signs.

Winter Parking Restrictions were put into effect Friday, Dec. 17 in Minneapolis to ensure reliable access for emergency vehicles after a record December snowfall. Parking is banned on the even side of non-Snow-Emergency-routes until April 1, unless conditions allow the City to lift the ban earlier. Parking is allowed on both sides of Snow Emergency routes and parkways, and the ODD side of non-Snow Emergency-routes, unless otherwise posted and provided a Snow Emergency has NOT been declared. Drivers parking in Minneapolis must follow these Winter Parking Restrictions, or they could be ticketed and towed.

For more information on Snow Emergencies and Winter Parking Restrictions, visit www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/snow.

Announcing Our Mill District Community Cornerstones

Yesterday we issued a press release announcing our Mill District Community Cornerstone awards -

http://www.prweb.com/releases/Mill-District/Minneapolis/prweb4911264.htm -

a project we've been working on for some time.  Initial reactions from two of the first four:

"We are very fortunate to be part of such a vibrant neighborhood and cultural corridor and to partner, as we often do, with MacPhail Center for Music, the Guthrie Theater and Open Book on programming for youth and families. Thank you, Mill City Times, for your support and enthusiasm" said Laura Salveson, Director of the Mill City Museum.

“MacPhail Center for Music is proud to be a part of a neighborhood that values the arts, education and community. We are not only committed to excellence in music education for all ages and abilities, but offer a sense of community and belonging for people who love music.” Paul Babcock, president and COO of MacPhail Center for Music offered.

These organizations were among the first to commit to our neighborhood during its revitalization, and have played a huge role in the growth and vibrancy of our community. They highlight our role as the historical and cultural center of Minneapolis, and they draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to our neighborhood each year.

The Community Cornerstone awards will be announced bi-monthly throughout 2011, and will include well known, and lesser known organizations, all of which play a vital role in the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Visit the Mill District Community Cornerstone page...

Minneapolis Veterinary Hospital Hosts Fundraiser for Pet Project Rescue

Minneapolis Veterinary Hospital, located at 1030 Washington Avenue South, recently hosted a fundraising event for Pet Project Rescue.  Pet Project Rescue is a no-kill, 501(c)(3) non-profit rescue which places homeless animals in foster care homes until they are adopted by their forever families.

Above, Lisa and Curtis Sanford.  Curtis is a Veterinarian, as well as Owner and Founder of Minneapolis Veterinary Hospital. Lisa is the Office Manager and Receptionist.  Below are two members of their staff -  Heather,  a Certified Veterinary Technician, and Kathy, a Veterinary Technician.

Above, Lisa with artist Georgiana Ewing, who contributed this painting of rescued dog Oscar for the silent auction.  Oscar, an 8 year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, was the inspiration for the fund raising event.  Georgiana is a Texas artist who paints animals in bold, joyous colors.  Below, another example of her work.

Above, Pet Project Rescue Co-Founder and Director, Maia, and Adoption Coordinator, Lindsay, with Aspen, a rescued 10 week old puppy (which they believe to be a Huskey/Samoyed mix).  During the fundraising event, the Sanfords raised $1,900 for Pet Project Rescue. Funds cover animal care expenses, such as spaying/neutering prior to adoption.

In addition to dogs, Minneapolis Veterinary Hospital cares for other small animals such as rabbits, cats, guinea pigs and birds.  Dr. Sanford offers advanced surgical techniques, cutting edge medical care and Stem Cell Certification for Arthritis in dogs and cats.   He also serves on the Board for Pet Accolades, an organization that provides service dogs for those with invisible disabilities.

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

New Exhibit Opening at Mill City Museum in January

The Mill City Museum will hold a public reception to open the exhibit for "Seeing the Big River: The Eco-Art of Peter L. Johnson" on January 13 from 6:00pm-8:00pm.

This new exhibit challenges viewers to 'See Beauty in Damaged Places'.  Peter L. Johnson says of his work that it "seeks and sees beauty in damaged places." By creating what he calls "lyric" photographs, Johnson chooses subjects that present an unsettling truth about the devastating relationship between humans and the Mississippi River.

Johnson will give remarks at 7:00pm and refreshments will be available. The exhibit is located in the museum’s central Mill Commons, and is free and open to the public during regular museum hours.

Photographs accompanied by found "specimens" and videos will be on display at Mill City Museum from January 13 - May 16, 2011.

Johnson draws on his varied background as a documentary photographer, solo street performance artist and social activist to create his body of work entitled "Devastating Beauty." In his recent series called "Specimens" he expands on the bumper sticker slogan, "Take only photographs and leave only footprints." Johnson photographs then removes the "specimen" from the ecosystem finally presenting the item next to the photograph in a gallery setting. Johnson says "this adds another layer of connection between humans and their effect on the environment."

In the "Immersion" series, Johnson sparks a discussion about the dangers of just being in the Mississippi River. In order to enter the waters he had to sign a waiver which he displays alongside the life-size prints and a corresponding video.

This exhibit is part of "Greening the Riverfront," a series of programs that explore how humans interact with nature, in the past, present and future.

Built within the ruins of the Washburn A Mill, a National Historic Landmark, the award-winning Mill City Museum chronicles the flour milling industry that fueled the growth of Minneapolis. The story comes to life through the eight-story Flour Tower, Water Lab, Baking Lab and other hands-on exhibits.

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

A Quiet Weekend in Mill City / December 17-19

Events in and around the Mill District this weekend:

Friday, December 17

Live Music at the 501 Club

Saturday, December 18

Discovery Saturday: Paws to Read at Minneapolis Central Library

The Nutcracker According to Mother Goose at Southern Theater

An 'Eventually' Christmas: Holidays at the Mill

Mill City Farmers Market at Local D'lish

Washburn A Mill Tour

Childish Film: Toys' Stories at Minneapolis Central Library

Sunday, December 19

The Nutcracker According to Mother Goose at Southern Theater

An 'Eventually' Christmas: Holidays at the Mill

Weekend Brunch

Saturday

Brunch at Spoonriver

Reservations recommended

10:00am - 2:00pm

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. 

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Winter Parking Restrictions Announced by Minneapolis

Minneapolis institutes Winter Parking Restrictions to improve access for public safety vehicles.

To ensure that Minneapolis public safety crews and equipment can safely and swiftly reach every home and business in the city, public safety and Public Works officials have enacted Winter Parking Restrictions beginning at 8 a.m., Friday, Dec. 17, 2010.

Police Chief Tim Dolan and Public Works Director Steve Kotke – in consultation with Fire Chief Alex Jackson - made the decision to enact Winter Parking Restrictions because the conditions warrant taking this step to maintain public safety.

Last weekend’s blizzard was a historic storm – the fifth largest in Minneapolis history, and the largest December snowfall ever, and Minneapolis has received nearly as much snow in November and December than it did all of last winter. This significant amount of snowfall has left many residential streets severely narrowed, making it challenging for fire trucks and other emergency vehicles to navigate.

Beginning at 8 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 17, drivers parking in Minneapolis must follow these Winter Parking Restrictions, or they could be ticketed and towed:
 
- Do NOT park on the EVEN numbered side of non-Snow-Emergency-routes.

- Parking is allowed on both sides of Snow Emergency routes and parkways, and the ODD side of non-Snow Emergency-routes, unless otherwise posted and provided a Snow Emergency has NOT been declared.

- It is possible that Snow Emergencies can be declared while Winter Parking Restrictions are in place.

When it snows, folks should take advantage of the many tools the City offers to find out if a Snow Emergency is declared:

Call the hotline - By calling the automated (612) 348-SNOW hotline, folks can find out if a Snow Emergency has been declared and where to park during Winter Parking Restrictions. The hotline will include information on parking restrictions that drivers need to follow to avoid tickets and tows. The hotline includes information in Spanish, Somali, and Hmong.

Check out the City’s website - Go to www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/snow to find out whether a Snow Emergency has been declared and for a wealth of information on Snow Emergencies in many languages. For Winter Parking Restrictions information visit www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/snow/winter-parking-restrictions.asp

Phone alerts - Minneapolis uses a phone alert system to notify residents when Snow Emergencies are declared and Winter Parking Restrictions are instituted. It is an automated notification system that can place thousands of calls per hour. The system automatically calls listed numbers—to also receive a call to your cell phone, go to www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/snow/phone-alert.asp to sign up.

E-mail alerts - You can sign up to get Snow Emergency alerts automatically e-mailed to you. Go to www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/snow/esubscribe.asp for more details.

The media - News releases are sent to the media so TV, radio stations and other news outlets can inform their viewers, listeners and readers that a Snow Emergency is in effect or Winter Parking Restrictions have been instituted.

On Cable - Tune in to cable channels 14 and 79. 

Facebook – “Like” Minneapolis Snow Emergency on Facebook. Go to www.facebook.com/MinneapolisSnowEmergency.

Twitter - www.twitter.com/minneapolissnow

Saturday is Last Day to Drop Off Toys for Tots

Saturday December 18 is the official last day to frop off toys. Check with your local drop off center to confirm as the deadline could vary.

According to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Minneapolis website, the 2009 local Toys for Tots campaign distributed over 350,000 toys to children in the community.

The need is still great in 2010, and it's easy to contribute a toy or two at one of the convenient drop off sites here in our neighborhood, such as:

Ticket King, 212 Chicago Avenue South, 651-298-8100
Aloft,  900 Washington Avenue South, 612-455-8414
Bridgewater Lofts, 215 10th Avenue South, 952-292-7235 or 612-341-4000

Click here for a full list of drop off sites in Minnesota (listed in alphabetical order by city name). 

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Tonight - Christmas Fundraiser for Pet Project Rescue at Minneapolis Veterinary Hospital

Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Location: 1030 South Washington Avenue

It's a party for the pets!  Minneapolis Veterinary Hospital is hosting this event to benefit Pet Project Rescue, a non-profit rescue which places homeless animals in foster care homes until they are adopted by their forever families.

Enjoy Lisa's black bean soup, lefse and cupcakes, along with hot cider.

Silent Auction featuring a Georgiana Ewing painting ends at 8:00pm.

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Tonight - Annual Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association Meeting

Time: 6:00pm

Location:  Central Library, Pohlad Hall, 300 Nicollet Mall

In addition to a line up of interesting speakers, elections will be held for the Board of Directors of the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA).   There are four seats up for election, and currently three incumbents are running.  The terms are two years.  If you know of anyone who might have an interest in running, please contact Christie Rock at 612-659-1279.

Agenda 

6:00pm  Welcome and DMNA Update by Board Chair Carletta Sweet
* Presentation of the DMNA Phase II NRP Plan for community approval
 
6:15pm  7th Ward Update by Council Member Lisa Goodman and reports from other elected officials

6:30pm  Presentation on efforts to end homelessness in Downtown Minneapolis.  How DMNA NRP funds are helping address the problem in the Downtown community.  Guest presenters include:
              * Cathy tenBroeke from Heading Home Hennepin
              * Monica Nilsson from St. Stephen’s Human Services
 
6:55pm  Presentation by Sarah Harris regarding the Downtown Improvement District

7:10pm  DMNA Board Directors Elections Facilitated by the League of Women Voters 
To be eligible to vote you must live, work or own property in either the Downtown East or Downtown West neighborhoods.

7:20pm  Crime and Safety Update by the Minneapolis Police Department First Precinct 

7:40pm  Announcement of new DMNA Board Directors by the League of Women Voters

7:45pm  Adjournment

It's the Holidays in the Mill District!

From now thru December 31, we'll be posting random shots from around the neighborhood that capture the Holiday Season.  Enjoy!

From the Mill District of Minneapolis.

Tonight - Sounds of Blackness, The Night Before Christmas – A Musical Fantasy at the Guthrie

Time: 7:30pm

Location: Wurtele Thrust Stage, The Guthrie

Minnesota’s three-time Grammy Award-winning Sounds of Blackness returns with their performance "The Night Before Christmas – A Musical Fantasy," a contemporary adaptation of the beloved poem “A Visit From St Nicholas.” This family-friendly musical production brings Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph the Rappin’ Reindeer to life in hilarious song and dance, as they learn the true meaning of Christmas. The music ranges from R&B/Hip-Hop to Jazz, Blues and Gospel and features Sounds of Blackness singers and band in show-stopping, roof-raising songs and scenes. This is a must-see performance during the holiday season.

Tickets