Dream Job: Mary Brabec, Booking Director, The Cedar Cultural Center

Article by Becky Fillinger

Dream jobs don’t just happen overnight. Check out the route that Mary Brabec took to arrive at her enviable position at The Cedar Cultural Center. We are so impressed with her perseverance, vision and enthusiasm for bringing world class musical talent to our neighborhood.

Mary BrabecQ:  Many people move to Minneapolis every month and they probably are unaware of The Cedar Cultural Center. Can you tell us the history of this entertainment venue?

A:  Located in the heart of Cedar Riverside, once one of the most prolific neighborhoods for live music in Minneapolis, and the home to the largest Somali diaspora in the U.S., The Cedar plays a key role in maintaining the vibrancy and diversity of the Twin Cities’ arts scene.

Our history can be found in found in this fascinating timeline here.

Q:  You’re the Booking Director for TCCC – what a fun job! But this is not your first talent booking position. Please tell us about your career journey that lands you here.

I grew up in a large, diverse music loving family in St. Paul — music was always in my ears! In high school (at Highland Park), my friends endured many "you have to hear this!" (whatever new wave track I was currently obsessed with). Put in charge of booking the HPHS homecoming concert, I did my first ever deal at our beloved all ages venue, The Cedar Theater, in 1987! After college I moved out West working in various contract hospitality situations. It was in a summer gig, cooking and running the kitchen for a festival organizer, Planet Bluegrass, at their ranch in Lyons, CO, that I discovered how fun it was to work in the live music community; behind the scenes; supporting artists and the people who run the events. I moved to Montana and began my lifelong career of producing concerts, festivals and love of radio with Vootie Productions and KGLT FM out of Bozeman.

DOMi and JD Beck at The Cedar, October 2022  Photo: Christopher Ludtke

Wanting to go further into festival programming, I took a job with One Reel Productions out of Seattle and helped book the Bumbershoot festival with a main focus on the (now defunct) WOMAD USA. When the organization lost their lease on this festival, my position was also dissolved. This was my turn towards representing artists directly. I opened up my own booking agency (Mighty Bison) with a roster of some fine up and coming string bands (bluegrass, old-time and other Americana acts). It was an amazing time! "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" had just been released with a new awareness of the genre — my clients were so busy touring and working the dense summer festival circuit. I merged my mighty but tiny agency with a larger boutique, the Billions Corporation, and had a solid seven year run with this group until the sharks (it's an extremely competitive business) chomped me and some of my hard-won clients to pieces.

I started Mighty Bison up again and eventually shuttered it with a move back to Minnesota. An old friend in the bluegrass world, Jerry Douglas, invited me to see his show at The Dakota in downtown Minneapolis in August, 2017 where I met the owner who was needing some assistance. Until the pandemic closed all of our doors, I worked for the jazz club helping to program the many amazing national and international artists that still grace that stage. In the fall of 2021, still not hearing back from The Dakota on whether my position was still in place, I couldn't afford to wait and took the booking seat at Icehouse. I was impressed by the owner's ability to develop an outdoor stage in the summers of 2020 and 2021, and it was an opportunity to learn more about the incredible local jazz scene. We live in such an amazing market of many VERY talented people! The Booking Director position at The Cedar opened in early 2022 and I jumped on the chance to apply. Such a privilege to be in this seat at this crucial time for the venue and humanity at large.

It's really a full circle dream for me to be applying my experience and commitment to high quality music to this sacred stage. To quote our Executive Director, Michelle Woster, "There are many hearts attached to The Cedar." It's truly an honor to serve this beloved organization and be back in the national and international touring arena.

Q:  How do you go about finding the right blend of local, national and international talent that comes to TCCC? Is there an internal vetting process for a monthly or quarterly calendar?

A:  As mentioned, I've been booking artists on many incredible stages for almost 30 years and have developed some good, big ears. The network of agents and producers across North America is my community and the communication amongst us is supportive. Obviously, COVID has changed us, but many remain committed to presenting quality live musical experiences. It's been so great to reconnect with many of these industry folks. I listen to them. I listen to our big eared staff and board. I live in our calendar. The Cedar has a solid legacy of being one of the unicorns in the United States, presenting marginalized and traditional international musicians. I get pitched many incredible ideas and with our ongoing commitment to developing local and regional talent of all genres there is a steady open door for many young artists to be acknowledged and placed in multi-band bills or opening for national touring acts. 

Q:  What are your sources for staying on top of trends in music? How do you stay aware of new talent?

A:  I listen to a lot of radio: KEXP & KBCS out of Seattle, KCRW out of LA, KBEM, KCMU and, of course, KFAI locally. I follow some tastemaker publicists and listen to agents who I admire; attending art presenters' conferences and participating in several world music consortium discussions are also very helpful for shared information and block booking ideas. Robert Lehmann, our Community & Grant-Funded Programs Manager, and I are attending a world music conference in Montreal (Mundial Montreal) this week, as a matter of fact!

Q:  If you could book your dream act, who would it be?

A: Shasa Sartin, our Marketing & Communications Manager, and I share a mutual dream of presenting D'Angelo on the Cedar stage! I got to work with him during my One Reel Seattle days (on his VooDoo tour) and it remains one of my favorite concerts. Also (because it's never just one act!) I would love to produce a tribute to Ali Farka Touré (featuring his son, Vieux, and Khruangbin). I have a dream of producing a second line parade through Central Minneapolis — a proper jazz funeral to all we've lost and been through in the past two years. My dream is to work with and support artists committed to healing and entertaining our weary hearts. I believe in the power of live music to connect us. I am committed to helping build joy filled moments. 

Q:  Please tell us about TCCC’s Racial Equity Commitment.

A:  Racial equity is central to the work we do at The Cedar in a myriad of ways. It’s a driving force for us when our mission is to “promote intercultural appreciation and understanding through the presentation of global music and dance,” and to remain committed to providing “support for emerging artists and community outreach.”

Programs such as The Cedar Commissions are an example of our organization's continuous commitment to racial equity in the arts. The Cedar Commissions is an annual program supported by the Jerome Foundation wherein six emerging Minnesota-based artists are granted $5,500 to create 30 minutes of new music to be debuted on The Cedar stage. Choosing a cohort of artists who represent a variety of racial identities is important to the selection committee. Artistic opportunities with financial support such as this one exemplify the Cedar’s support of artists holding racial identities that have been historically denied adequate resources and platforms to bring creative expression to life.

As of Quarter 3, 2022 our staff is 35% BIPOC-identifying members and our Board of Directors is 40% BIPOC-identifying members. The organization is pleased to have reached these goals set in 2021; simultaneously, we acknowledge that there are improvements yet to be made that aren’t measured quantitatively. The Cedar recognizes that working to be a racially-equitable organization is a continuous, ever-evolving process.

Executive Director Michelle Woster coordinated a visioning session by Aurora Consulting in early October during which staff and board members came together at The Cedar to collaboratively explore the question of “where do we see The Cedar in five years?” It was a really meaningful exercise and the desire to maintain a racially diverse staff and board were collectively recognized as central for the forthcoming, future Cedar. Continuing – and developing – programming that highlights racial equity is an exciting part of The Cedar’s evolution.

Q:  How may we follow the news at TCCC? 

A:  To keep up with The Cedar, follow us everywhere at @thecedar and subscribe to our weekly newsletter for updates about upcoming shows and community happenings!

Miller Lite Free Rides Teams up with MTC for Nov. 20 Vikings Game

Molson Coors’ Free Rides Program seeks to help fans celebrate responsibly during the season and beyond

Miller Lite Free Rides is teaming up with Metro Transit in Minneapolis/St. Paul to provide fans with transportation to and from the Vikings game on Sunday, Nov. 20. Fare will be free of charge on all routes, including busses and light rail from 1:30 to 9 p.m. No fare or coupons will be needed.

“Alcohol responsibility has always been a top priority at Molson Coors,” said Tami Garrison, community affairs director. “We love watching communities come together on game days and are proud to offer a program that allows fans to leave their keys at home and celebrate responsibly.”

The Free Rides program was first offered in Minneapolis/St. Paul in 1997 for St. Patrick’s Day. After its success in Minneapolis/St. Paul and other cities nationwide, the program expanded and has now provided more than eight million people with free access to transportation. In the past year, Molson Coors has offered free rides to individuals on New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day and during the Kentucky Derby to encourage safe and responsible celebrations year-round.

“Miller Lite’s Free Rides program has had such a powerful impact in the Twin Cities and we are proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the company,” said Kelci Stones, market development strategist, Metro Transit. “We are committed to delivering safe and cost-effective transportation for our riders year-round, and programs like Free Rides brings us closer to our mission.”

Visit the Metro Transit’s website to review transit routes and plan for a safe ride home on game day.

Luminary Arts Center – Gorgeous Performance Space in the North Loop

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

The Luminary Arts Center completed its renovation in July. We spoke to Ryan Taylor, President and General Director of Minnesota Opera, to learn more about the renovation, history of the facility and what we can expect to be staged in this beautiful space at 700 N 1st Street.

Ryan TaylorMCT:  Please provide some history of this space.

A:  The Luminary Arts Center building is an 8,000-square-foot stone box with 30-foot ceilings, carved out of the foundation of a historic Itasca warehouse along the Mississippi River. It’s located right next door to the Minnesota Opera Center, three warehouse buildings that Minnesota Opera moved into and renovated in 1990 to house its scenic and costume shops, rehearsal facilities, and administrative offices.

The theater, like its North Loop neighborhood, is rich in history. Designed and developed in 1988 for the Guthrie Theater as a laboratory for new works, the space served as the Guthrie’s second stage until the completion of its current theater complex in 2006. More recently, under executive producer Mary Kelley Leer, the theater (then called the Lab Theater) became a lively stage for both emerging and established performing artists in theater, music, dance, cabaret, fashion, and burlesque.

Minnesota Opera had been approached several times over the years to purchase the space, and finally did in 2019. The previous managers and tenants continued their work and performances without interruption through the start of the pandemic. On June 1, 2021, Minnesota Opera assumed management of the space. Beginning in July 2021, Minnesota Opera embarked on a major $6-million-dollar renovation of the building that concluded in July 2022. The space reopened to renters in September, 2022 and Minnesota Opera will host its first presentation in the new space this month.

MCT:  Please tell us about the renovation.

A:  The renovation includes enhancement to front-of-house facilities, structural and mechanical improvements, and improvements to the theater and its support spaces. The addition of a freight elevator improves the efficiency and safety of load-in processes for all users, and a tension wire grid allows for increased flexibility for event turnaround and a safer technical teaching arena. New flooring offers a safer environment for a variety of performers, including dancers, and new acoustic treatments render the space appropriate for a variety of potential renters. The renovated theater has 224 seats.

Q:  What types of events will be staged at this beautiful facility?

A:  We hope to keep the space as a resource for a wide variety of arts organizations and other community groups. So far, we have hosted Ten Thousand Things and Interact Center for the Visual and Performing Arts. Next, Minnesota Opera will present Handel’s Rinaldo this month at the space. We typically don’t present music from that early period, and I’m excited that the Luminary gives Minnesota Opera the opportunity to present pieces that we might not stage at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Rinaldo should work nicely in this more intimate space, and I’m glad that we can use the Luminary to expand the types of stories that we’re able to tell. After our inaugural presentation in the renovated space, we’re confirmed to host the Danger Committee, Minnesota Dance Theatre, Ballet Co.Laboratory, Young Dance, and Cantus, and we have more bookings in the works. We have a wide variety of organizations interested in how the space can help them fulfill their goals, and we’re happy about that.

Q:  How do you go about pitching a new performing space to the artistic community in the Twin Cities? Do you have a backlog of requests to use the space?

A:  We’ve been in close conversation with the previous tenants of the venue throughout the renovation process, and we’re happy to see many of them return to the space as more live performances are happening. We are fielding requests on a first-come, first-served basis to prospective renters. We are interested in organizations that have a history with the space and have depended on it for their artmaking and storytelling. But we’re also excited to engage new organizations and community groups to use the Luminary, as well. We’re taking it slow and steady – Minnesota Opera primarily performs at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, which we do not own, and so we are learning a lot as an institution as we step into the role of managing a venue. I hope we will be good stewards of this historic performance space for years to come. 

Q:  May the public tour the space?

A:  The public is welcome to come and see a show at the Luminary, and tickets are available at luminaryartscenter.com. We held an Open House for the space in August and hope to have more opportunities for the public to engage with the space in the future. For private tours, interested parties can contact info@luminaryartscenter.com.

Q:  Thank you for being good stewards of this space. How may we follow your news?

A:  You can follow the Luminary Arts Center at luminaryartscenter.com or by signing up for Minnesota Opera’s e-newsletter at mnopera.org.

The Luminary Arts Center is located at 700 N 1st Street.  Photo credit: doitinnorth

December 6 Noble Truth Artist Talk: Layl McDill

Layl McDill is co-owner of Clay Squared to Infinity, 2505 Howard Street NE. Find her in Studio A.

On December 6th, Art to Change the World takes their Studio Visits: Noble Truths series to Layl McDill's studio in the Flux Arts Building, 2505 Howard Street NE. The event starts at 6pm.

Layl lives in Minneapolis and is co-owner of Clay Squared to Infinity, a tile and art studio and showroom in the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District. She has exhibited her work around the country at art centers, museums and art fairs. Her work is about wonderment and story primarily polymer clay using the millefiori technique. She shares her space with her husband Josh Blanc as part of Clay Squared to Infinity.

She will give a tour of both her studio and her husband’s. As an extra bonus, Layl will perform one of her stories which she recently told on the Moth Stage at a Story Slam. You'll also have the opportunity to play with some polymer clay scraps!

Give to the Max Day is November 17

Search for your favorite causes

Give to the Max Day is a Minnesota-based, one-day initiative started by GiveMN in 2009 to help raise money for participating nonprofit organizations and schools. The event is held on a Thursday each November, and this year it falls on Thursday, November 17.

Small Business Spotlight: Extempore

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Our small business spotlights are usually restaurants or other hospitality businesses, but our neighborhoods are also home to many innovative high-tech businesses. Extempore, a language assessment tool provider, is based in the Sheridan neighborhood. We talked to Carlos Seoane, Founder and CEO, about the products and services his company provides, and why the Sheridan neighborhood was a good fit as a business location.   

Carlos SeoaneQ:  You’ve said that there are four skills in the world language classroom – speaking, writing, reading and listening. How does Extempore aid the learner in building these skills?

A:  Right. Many of your readers can probably relate to the pressure of speaking during language classes back in their school years. That’s what Extempore was designed for: alleviate the pressures around speaking and provide students and teachers with more opportunities to practice. Teachers want their students to speak the target language more; we want to be the platform where that occurs. As an assessment platform, Extempore allows instructors to create practice activities and high stakes assessments that measure students’ growth in each of these four skills.

For example:

a) Teachers could provide a text for students to read paired with comprehension questions.

b) Likewise, instructors could upload or record their own audio files, have students listen to these, and then provide either comprehension questions or a follow-up task based on that recording.

c) For speaking, teachers can create any prompt for students to respond to: open-ended questions, communicative tasks, simulated conversations.

d) Finally, instructors can assess writing in a similar way to how they assess speaking: by providing prompts and a task for students to complete by producing the target language.

Q:  What sets Extempore apart from other language software or apps?

A:  This is an interesting question. I would say the way it allows teachers to provide personal, customized feedback for each student response. Similarly, its flexibility and versatility provide a platform for instructors to create high-quality yet efficient summative and formative assessments that students can complete in minutes. It’s really the “Swiss Army Knife” of assessment platforms, if I may. It also saves instructors time and provides a low-pressure environment for students to record audio responses. Instead of having to sit with each student one on one, teachers can now listen to student recordings, saving class time. Likewise, when students can record on their own devices in a preferred location, they can speak in the environment that suits them best, instead of in front of their peers, which may cause anxiety. On top of this, as students accumulate completed assessments, they slowly develop their own portfolios that can illustrate growth over periods of time. So Extempore not only measures the short-term gains in each assessment, but through comparing results and responses, it can provide detail on long-term progress as well. Please note that our assessment platform can find use in any class that needs to measure student output – gym, music, voice, etc.   

Q:  Your website states Extempore can lead to better cultural competency. Tell us about this notion.

A:  Yes. Just how instructors can provide prompts to build linguistic skills, so too can they create prompts to stimulate cultural conversations. These could be pre-class discussion prompts or post-discussion reflections. However, instructors use Extempore, by including cultural discussions and prompts on the platform, they can assess and measure growth in cultural awareness and knowledge. For example, teachers could upload a short video of the Carnival festival in Brazil and have students reflect on the video by responding with see, think, and wonder: What do you see? What do you think? What do you wonder? This is an easy way to engage students with the target culture in a low-pressure environment.

Q:  Is Extempore a good tool for language students of all ages?

A:  Absolutely. We have learners ranging from kindergarten to college using the platform.

Q:  Your office is at 1317 Marshall Street NE. Why did you choose the Sheridan neighborhood for a physical office location?

A:  The Sheridan office is a perfect spot for our team. It’s centrally located and has all the amenities we need to work well together. This office lends itself well to visits from prospective investors and clients who are interested in learning more about Extempore.

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn. We have some exciting updates and content coming out in the future, so stay tuned!

Cynthia Froid Group Announces 2022 People Serving People Holiday Toy Drive

Cynthia Froid Group, 709 S 2nd Street, will again sponsor their Annual Holiday Toy Drive for People Serving People to help ensure kids at the Minneapolis shelter have a wonderful holiday season. In addition to dropping off items at Cindy's office, you can also shop People Serving People’s Target Holiday Wishlist and Amazon Holiday Wishlist. Your online purchase can be shipped directly to People Serving People, or you can personally deliver items to their shelter at 614 3rd Street S. This donation drive will last until Friday, December 16th.

Savanna Henning, Biological Sciences Technician, National Parks Service, on Beavers and Floodplain Forest Resiliency

Article by Becky Fillinger

The beaver is a keystone species - a species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend, and if they are removed, the ecosystem would change drastically. The busy work of beavers can be highly beneficial and conversely detrimental to our local wetlands’ landscapes. We talked to Savanna Henning, Biological Sciences Technician for the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, about a three-year study being conducted on beavers and the floodplain forest - and how you may volunteer to be part of the project.

Savanna HenningQ:  Please tell us about your research work with beavers and floodplain management.

A:  The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, Mississippi Park Connection and the University of Minnesota are conducting a 3-year floodplain forest resiliency partnership study to better understand the relationship between beaver and floodplain forest plant communities. This collaborative team received a grant this summer from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR) which will provide funding for the study through 2025, with goals of continued research going forward.

Anecdotal evidence has shown that beaver presence on the river affects sapling trees' - specifically the mighty cottonwood trees' - ability to grow to full maturity. This study seeks to quantify the impact of beavers on floodplain forest plant communities and allow the park service and partners to develop a set of best management practices for effective and efficient floodplain forest restoration. To date, an initial beaver activity survey has been conducted around and along the 72-mile stretch of Mississippi River that runs through Minneapolis and St. Paul. This survey documented beaver signs including dams, food caches and foraging trails, as well as inactive and active lodges and dens. The data from the survey will provide a starting point for developing a monitoring plan. This fall, wildlife technicians have begun deploying a series of wildlife cameras on active lodges and dens throughout the corridor to assist in determining colony size, observe possible predator-beaver interactions and select appropriate sites for vegetative tree surveys in the following years.

Current and former National Park Service Biological Science Technicians Savanna Henning and Bridgette Timm and University of Minnesota ecologist Dr. Joseph Bump deploy a beaver wildlife camera near a lodge at Crosby Farm in St. Paul. 

Biological Science Technician Savanna Henning checking a beaver wildlife camera on a lodge at Ft. Snelling State Park.

Biological Science Technician Savanna Henning talking about the goals of the wildlife cameras on and near beaver bank dens and lodges.

.

Q:  How do beavers help to control floods? How does beaver activity affect sapling tree survival rates?  

A:  Known as nature's architectural engineers, beavers have the incredible ability to shape ecosystems by a multitude of behaviors including crafting and maintaining dams, burrowing in riverbanks and feeding and use of tree species. Many studies have found that beavers impact the hydrology of rivers and streams by slowing down and spreading out water into floodplain habitats, which may reduce the impact of floods but is largely dependent on context. Though this 3-year floodplain forest resiliency study does not directly aim to answer questions of beavers and flooding in the Mississippi corridor, it may lead to future questions surrounding beavers and flooding. The aim of the study is to explore the effect beaver activity has locally on sapling tree survival rates. The specific sapling tree species of interest for the study is the eastern cottonwood tree which can grow to heights of 100 feet, contributing to soil stabilization, carbon storage and wildlife habitat. This tree is also well known for the large amounts of water that it uses, an average of 50-200 gallons/day, directly linking it to the water cycle in our park. It certainly wouldn't be science if one study did not open up the flood gates to a multitude of new questions!

Q:  Will the public be able to watch the beaver activity from the wildlife cameras your team is installing? How do we follow news of this project?  

A:  As of this fall, there is not a livestream wildlife camera available for the public to watch, though there is discussion of one in the future! We will be processing beaver footage collected after the field season. Look to Mississippi National River and Recreation Facebook page for opportunities to view videos captured by beaver cams and receive updates on the project in the next few years! You can also look to the Science and Research page on the Mississippi National River and Recreation website for updates.

Q:  Thank you for this important work. Do you need volunteers?

A:  The park is encouraging visitors to report any beaver activity they see within the parks borders, which can include fallen trees due to chewing, beaver dams, tracks, lodges, bank dens and of course sightings, to contribute to this body of research. It may be surprising that beavers are present even in the main channel of the Mississippi, but they are certainly there! Along large rivers they often inhabit bank dens which are much less conspicuous than the iconic beaver lodge.

To report any of the described beaver signs visit https://parkconnection.org/beaver. Volunteers are also needed to assist with beaver wildlife camera work and can find upcoming opportunities at parkconnection.org/volunteer and scroll down to find the volunteer opportunity entitled "Beaver Monitoring Assistant." 

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update and Tunneling Progress Update, November 10

Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is constructing a new parallel storm tunnel, enlarging a portion of the existing storm tunnel, and constructing a new tunnel access in Downtown Minneapolis. This project is anticipated to be completed summer 2023.

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

Project Map

Latest Project News

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews have resumed work at the Mississippi River portal site expanding the existing storm tunnel.
  • The parking lot and trail will be closed near Mill Ruins Park.
  • Crews will soon be working 24/7 at this site, Monday through Saturday.

2nd Ave

• Crews continue tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection.
  • The sidewalks remain open on both sides of the road.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 2nd Ave S intersection remains open.
  • 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S.
  • Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Portland Ave

• Tunneling the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave continues from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.
  • Pedestrian access is being maintained during this work. Please follow any posted detour routes.
  • There may be short, periodic traffic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Coming Soon

Saturday work

• Beginning November 19th, crews will be working on Saturdays at the 2nd Avenue, Portland Avenue and Mississippi River Portal sites.

Tunneling Progress

 Long Term Closures/Restrictions

• The north westbound lane, bike lane, and parking lane remains closed on Washington Ave between Portland Ave and Park Ave. These closures will remain in place until the project is completed. This is necessary for the contractor to utilize the existing shaft to connect the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
  • During this closure, pedestrians can still use the sidewalks along Washington Ave.
  • Crosswalks across Washington Ave and Portland Ave will remain open.
  • Bicyclists will share the traffic lane.
  • The existing left turn lane on Washington Ave at the Portland Ave intersection will temporarily become a left turn and through lane.

• The north sidewalk along Washington Ave remains restricted between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall.
  • During these restrictions, pedestrians share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  • The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave remains open.

• The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains restricted through the end of the project. The dewatering well and pumps are installed in this area.
  • Pedestrians can use the sidewalk on the west side of 4th Ave S.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 4th Ave intersection remains open.
  • Access to driveways off 4th Ave S remains open.

• The west sidewalk of Portland Ave south of Washington Ave will remain restricted to pedestrians around the dewatering well and pumps until the project is completed.

What to Expect

• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
• Schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Stay Connected

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

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418.

Minneapolis Animal Care & Control Launches Foster Program

Excerpt from the November 10th City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Can you help animals in need? Minneapolis Animal Care & Control has launched its new animal foster program, giving the public the opportunity to volunteer to temporarily provide animals extra care, attention and homes.

Fosters are a great way to provide animals with care, play, exercise and socialization. Animals that are placed with volunteers in the foster program may include:

• Those too young or small for adoption.
• Those recovering from surgery or illness.
• Those who need temporary housing due to domestic violence situations.
• Those experiencing temporary displacement from an emergency or natural disaster.
• And animals who could use a break from the shelter environment.

Minneapolis Animal Care & Control will provide all supplies and medical care for foster pet care.

Applicants must be willing to commit to housing an animal, and have the ability to get to and from Minneapolis Animal Care & Control, 212 17th Ave. N., Minneapolis. Staff will contact applicants after their application is reviewed to discuss the program, and will work with you to provide the best matches possible.

Learn more and apply.

23rd Annual Sound Unseen Film Festival – A Discussion with Program Director, Rich Gill

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Now in its 23rd year, Sound Unseen is a niche film festival dedicated to the “role of film and music as a conduit of powerful ideas and diverse viewpoints.” Minneapolis dates are November 9-13. We talked to Program Director Rich Gill about the history and expansion of Sound Unseen and this year’s festival.

Rich GillQ:  Please give our readers a brief history of Sound Unseen.

A:  Sound Unseen started in 1999 as a “films on music” festival showcasing documentaries, narratives, and short films where music is the main focus. Since that time, we have expanded our programming to include films that don’t necessarily have a music focus but still fall under the broad umbrella of creative expression. We’ve screened films about photographers, skateboarders, chefs, comedians, and even some animated films. In addition to expanding our programming we’ve also branched out to other cities. Sound Unseen had a festival in Duluth for a period of time and last year we started doing screenings in Austin, TX.

Don't Full in Love with Yourself is a documentary about the life and music of Justin Pearson, an underground musician and owner of Three One G records.Q:  Your festival was included as “One of 20 Great Film Festivals for First-Time Moviemakers” in MovieMaker Magazine. What is the criteria and process for submitting a film or performance idea to Sound Unseen? Does the selection committee look for first time moviemakers to highlight? How do you go about curating performances to accompany the films selected?

A:  In addition to myself, Festival Director Jim Brunzell, and Shorts Programmer Kat Swenson, we have a fantastic screening committee that consists of people from across the country that all have different tastes and interests when it comes to both film and music. With that said, the only real criteria for submitting a film is we ask that it have something to do with music or the arts. Every year we inevitably get a number of submissions that have nothing to do with either of those things and while we appreciate people submitting to us, we don’t have much use for those films.

We love showcasing first time filmmakers. We also love getting films from people who are seasoned veterans when it comes to filmmaking but there is definitely something special about a first-time filmmaker, especially if they didn’t go to school for filmmaking. There’s an excitement they have that is really great to see and a lot of times they have a way of documenting things that you don’t get from people who have made several films already.

In terms of pairing musical performances with films we just try to figure out what would make the most sense. Obviously, we’re not going to put a heavy metal band in front of a documentary about classical music, although that would be kind of fun to see. We try to find a mix of bands that we know will help draw people to the screening and also ones that might get some exposure from playing in front of a movie that we know will do well. 

In Quantum Cowboys, hapless drifters Frank and Bruno team up with a woman to recover her land and trek across 1870s southern Arizona to find an elusive frontier musician.Q:  Sound Unseen has strong and transparent values, mission and vision statements. One of the values under ‘Community’ states: “We are committed to being a good partner and improving the cultural and economic landscape of our community.” Please tell us how your organization improves our local/regional cultural and economic landscapes.

A:  One of the things we pride ourselves on is working with local companies and organizations during the festival, and really year-round when it comes down to it. Partnering locally benefits everyone involved. It exposes Sound Unseen to an audience that might not normally seek out our screenings and it also puts our partner’s product or organization in front of the Sound Unseen patrons. In terms of the films, we play we are very conscious about making sure we have a program that highlights films with diverse voices that would otherwise not get a chance to screen in the Twin Cities area. Sound Unseen has always made it a point to feature a healthy selection of foreign language films and also movies with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ filmmakers or subjects. 

Q:  How did Sound Unseen adapt during the COVID shutdowns? Did you learn things that made the festival and organization stronger? 

A:  Like a lot of festivals, we made the pivot to virtual screenings during the shutdown which was a challenge but ultimately opened us up to a wider audience with some of the screenings we did. The interesting thing about it is COVID was kind of the catalyst for expanding our festival to Texas. We had talked about it before so when we went 100% virtual it seemed like the perfect time to give it a shot and thankfully it worked in our favor. I think the biggest thing we learned is exactly what you asked, how to adapt. If we can’t do a festival in person, how can we make it work virtually? What will Q&A’s look like? Will we be able to still have live music be a part of it? Those are all things we had to figure out how to do and then execute in a pretty short window of time.

Q:  Do you have favorites from the November lineup? How do we order passes or tickets?

A:  In no particular order I’m excited about getting the world premiere of DON’T FALL IN LOVE WITH YOURSELF, a documentary about Justin Pearson from the noise punk band The Locust. Director Jon Nix will be in attendance so that will be a fun time. We also have Neko Case and director Geoff Marslett coming to do a Q&A for their film QUANTUM COWBOYS, which is also Neko’s acting debut. Lastly, we are playing a film called CHOP & STEELE which falls into that category of not really being a music film but it definitely fits with the types of films we look for. It’s about the creators of the Found Footage Festival and how they navigated being sued by a television broadcast company. There’s more to it than that but I don’t want to give too much away. It’s highly recommended though. They will also be in attendance along with the co-director for a post screening Q&A along with a music-themed presentation of the Found Footage Festival. Please order tickets here on soundunseen.com.

Local Author Sarah Warren Celebrates Stacey Abrams in New Children's Book, Stacey Abrams: Lift Every Voice

Article by Becky Fillinger

I am in a perpetual starstruck state at the abundance of talented writers who live in our community. Meet Sarah Warren – her new children’s book on Stacey Abrams is timely, relevant and inspiring. The children (and honestly, the adults) in your life will love it.

Stacy AbramsQ:  A Kirkus book review of Stacey Abrams: Lift Every Voice calls it an “important, uplifting biography with historical and contemporary significance.” I agree. Why did you decide to write a children’s book about the life of Stacey Abrams?   

A:  How could I resist? Stacey Abrams is an extraordinary human being. She is a straight up superstar at this point, but I knew young people would relate to her story. Her clarity of purpose, wisdom, confidence and optimism lit me up back in 2020, the first time I heard her speak on Oprah’s Super Soul podcast. I wanted to spread that light. 

I love writing books about cool women who use their everyday powers to change the world. I tell stories about my heroes. I also USE stories about heroes to talk to young people about abstract concepts like persistence, purpose, service and equality. When readers read the biographies I’ve written, they see these ideas come to life. This book is about Stacey Abrams. It’s also about power: How can we get it? What do we do when it’s taken away? How can we share it with our families, our neighbors, our country and our world? I felt pretty powerless back in 2020. Stacey Abrams inspired me to use my voice. I used it to write this book. 

Q:  Has Stacey Abrams read your tribute to her?

A:  What have you heard? Has she said anything to you? Don’t tell me. She loves it though, right? 

I really wanted to talk to Stacey about this book. Honestly, I’d listened to Lead from the Outside so many times it felt like we HAD talked, but instead of interviewing her, she spent the whole time cheering me on and teaching me how to achieve my goals and transform the world. 

I prefer to work with the people I write about, but that wasn’t possible with this biography. In my quest to work with Stacey Abrams, however, I met lots of people who did. They shared story after story about how happy they were to follow her lead. When I’m out on the town with copies of Stacey Abrams: Lift Every Voice, strangers rush over to tell me about the times they saw her speak, or canvassed for her, or read her books. She has touched so many lives already. She uses her voice to motivate people all over the world. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

Q:  Throughout your book, readers learn of Abrams’ question to herself - “How can I help?” Do you hope to inspire young readers to question troubling situations and ask themselves how to remedy the situations? 

A:  Absolutely! It’s easy to feel helpless. I know. I love my country. I want it to stop hurting people, but how? When oppression is systemic and sneaky, change feels impossible. Where do we even start? I want my readers to know that it’s okay to start small. Stacey Abrams learned at a young age that everyone can do something to help. Her family didn’t have a lot, but they gave their time, their talents, and their love. She grew up and found bigger and bigger ways to help people, but her motivation never changed. She fights to make sure we all have what we need to be our best. We can all make a difference. “How can I help?” is a great place to start.  

Q:  Lift Every Voice and Sing is known as the Black National Anthem. What were your thoughts in including it in the title of a book devoted to Stacey Abrams? 

A:  “Lift Every Voice and Sing” is a history lesson. It’s a call to action. It’s music. Music is powerful.

Have you ever been at church or school or at a concert, anyplace where the people around you start singing? If you’re like me, you get caught up in how all the different voices bump against each other. It’s so weird. We’re strangers! We haven’t practiced! I hear youthful voices perking up here and there, and elders who can riff off of the melodies they know by heart. I worry my voice doesn’t fit. But when I finally relax and quit being self-conscious, I can feel the tender hum of pure, determined creation. I feel my community. We are all so different, but here we are, building this beautiful moment together. The Black National Anthem invites us to know and feel the world like this. The text tells listeners so much about our country, our strength, our struggle, and our potential. I referenced this song because I believe James Weldon Johnson and his brother knew how to unite our voices and Stacey Abrams does too. 

Q:  Do you have book reading and signing events scheduled for Stacey Abrams: Lift Every Voice? I sure hope so! 

A:  You can order signed copies of my book from Crown the Writer at crownthewriter.com. You can find out more about upcoming events at picturebookparade.com and sarahwbooks.com. Follow me on Twitter - Come find me!

2022 - 2023 Snow Emergency Info

You know it's coming, so it's best to be prepared. Follow the guidelines to not only avoid vehicle towing and fines for not shoveling, but to simply be a good citizen and give the plow operators an unobstructed path so they can keep our streets as clear as possible.

There are many ways to find out if the City declares a Snow Emergency:

• Call 311
• Check the City of Minneapolis website - If they declare a Snow Emergency, you'll see a banner at the top of every page with an announcement.
• Sign up for Snow Emergency alerts
• Check the City's social media pages: Twitter and Facebook
• Get the Snow Emergency app
• Call the Snow Emergency hotline, 612-348-SNOW (7669) 
• Watch local TV or radio 

The Freehouse is Serving Up a Fall Menu to Satisfy Any Craving

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

The Freehouse offers tasty seasonal beverages and food items throughout the year. We’ve awaited the fall offerings and they’re here! General Manager, David Johnson, shares his favorites with us. My short terms plans include the Honey Crisp Jalisco and the Short Rib Dip! Pay them a visit at 701 N Washington Avenue in the North Loop and let us know your picks.

New for Beverages:

Gingersnap Sour featuring Knob Creek bourbon, butterscotch, apple syrup, peach ginger purée and cinnamon. Why you’ll love it:  Bourbon and ginger are a classic pairing! When combined with butterscotch, peach, and apple, it is the perfect drink for a crisp day. 

Rye Tai featuring Bulleit rye bourbon, Noces royales pear cognac, orgeat and lime juice. Why you’ll love it: A cold weather, bourbon-inspired take on the warm weather classic Mai Tai. Bourbon paired with pear cognac and orgeat gives a warming citrus & spice finish. Out with the beach and in with the bonfire! 

Honey Crisp Jalisco featuring Casamigos blanco tequila, Noces royales pear cognac, apple simple syrup and lemon juice. Why you’ll love it: Rich and savory pear cognac adds a seasonal touch to this easy-drinking Tequila cocktail. 

Apple Ginger Crush (non-alcoholic) featuring  apple juice, ginger beer, cinnamon sugar, anise. Why you’ll love it: A seasonal non-alcoholic take on the classic mule. Apple and cinnamon combine to make this an easy, refreshing, spicy, and cozy drink perfect for cool autumn nights and the festive holidays. 

Freehouse No. 18 Midnight Lager, black lager / 4.7% abv.

 Why you’ll love it: This black lager has a pleasant sweet chocolate aroma with dark chocolate and caramel roastiness and a crisp, clean lager finish. A more sessionable version of the highly sought-after stouts and winter ales popular during the cooler season. 

New for Food:

Buffalo Cauliflower: Oven roasted cauliflower, tempura battered, buffalo sauce, ranch. Why you’ll love it: One bite and you'll find that you can't stop eating the appetizing morsels. Spicy, savory, and just fun to eat! 

Mac & Cheese: Cheddar cheese sauce, mozzarella, Romano and parmesan cheese, cavatappi noodles, crushed croutons. Why you’ll love it: Creamy, cheesy and delicious. A Freehouse classic that is perfect anytime of the year, but this ultimate comfort food has a special place in our hearts during the cooler months. 

Short Rib Dip: Short ribs, provolone, caramelized onion, horseradish sauce, baguette, au jus. Why you’ll love it: Perfectly tender, slow-roasted short rib layered with caramelized onion and provolone, then topped with our signature horseradish sauce spread. 

Plant-based Patty Melt: Beyond Burger patty, pumpernickel rye, plant-based cheese, mayo-free aioli, arugula, caramelized onion. Why you’ll love it: Served on perfectly toasted rye, this plant-based patty melt is just as juicy, savory, flavorful and gooey as the classic version. 

French Toast Chicken Stack: French toast, Nashville chicken, sausage gravy, over easy egg, parsley. Why you’ll love it: Inspired by breakfast classics like French toast, chicken & waffles, biscuits & gravy, this hearty breakfast is perfect any time of day. Two Nashville chicken tenders are served over our famous ciabatta French toast and topped with our house-made sausage gravy.

Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi, cream, basil pesto, shiitake and portabella, bacon lardon, arugula, poached eggs, green onion, balsamic reduction, toast. Why you’ll love it: This is the rich, sweet and savory breakfast dish you’re going to be craving all Fall and Winter. The creamy pesto sauce and smokey bacon are absolutely delectable and pair perfectly with the fluffy, yet crispy gnocchi.

 

"Come and visit us! We love to welcome regulars and first timers to our restaurant."

General Manager, David Johnson

The Dayton’s Project Announces Winter Maker’s Market

The curated retail installation features Minnesota heritage brands

The Dayton’s Project has announced the launch of the Winter Maker’s Market, a curated retail experience showcasing heritage brands from across Minnesota. The market will feature 65 independent vendors, showcasing the depth and variety of Minnesota retail.  

“There is something incredibly special about the holidays at The Dayton’s Project. We’re thrilled to be bringing back this one-of-a-kind holiday shopping destination,” said Tricia Pitchford, Principal of Mid-America Real Estate. “We’re proud to support the vibrancy and resurgence of downtown Minneapolis, especially since the holidays have always been such an important part of Dayton’s history.” 

Every one of the 65 vendors will bring a unique story and hand-selected products to the Winter Maker’s Market. Some of Minnesota’s most iconic heritage brands will be featured in the market, including Red Wing Shoes (heritage work and lifestyle footwear), Faribault Mill (iconic blanket and textiles), and Sanborn Canoe (canoes, camping accessories, and home décor).  

Original apparel offerings, with inspiration from around the world, will be provided by Sota Clothing (Minnesota-themed apparel, accessories, and décor), Molly Pepper (effortless lounge and lifestyle wear), Embellish (ready-to-wear African prints); Karen Morris (one-of-a-kind women’s hats); and nickichicki (colorful and stylish knitwear). Shop in the City will be back with its fan-favorite Dayton’s merchandise including hats, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and much more! 

Artisan accessories and home goods, with the highest level of attention to detail, from Leather Works Minnesota (artisan leather goods), Brooke & Lou (elevated home accessories). Fox Lake Furniture (handcrafted custom wood furniture and accessories); Wondrous Crane (delicate, functional ceramics); and Larissa Loden (unique handmade jewelry). 

Specialty culinary items from Sweet Heaven (custom cake design); Hepp Salt Co (gourmet salt and sugar); We Are Nuts (handmade nut mixes); and The Smiling Olive (premium olive oils and vinegars). 

The entire vendor list marks 64 vendors offering products and services, from homemade dog treats from Morey and Me to vinegar-based cocktail mixers by Sharab Shrubs. 

“This collection of brands really showcases what makes Minnesota so incredible. We are showcasing the heritage of Minnesota. The quality and the diversity of the brands in the Market really has to be seen to be believed,” said Mich Berthiaume, the market curator. “There simply is no substitute for browsing a handpicked selection made locally with passion and care. There is a magic to downtown, and The Dayton’s Project, during the holidays.” 

The Winter Maker’s Market is housed in The Dayton’s Project, a landmark historic restoration development in downtown Minneapolis. Home to EY, Unilever, Uncommon Retail, and new tenant Prudential Financial, The Dayton’s Project offers 1.2 million square feet of Minneapolis History, transformed into best-in-class office space and curated retail. 

The Winter Maker’s Market will open November 17th through January 13th. It will be open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am through 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am through 5:00 pm through December 23rd, with post-holiday hours to be announced at a later date.

Entire Vendor List: 

Red Wing Shoes https://www.redwingshoes.com/ 

Faribault Mill https://www.faribaultmill.com/ 

Sota Clothing https://www.sotaclothing.com/ 

Sanborn Canoe Co. https://sanborncanoe.com/ 

Austin | Fowler https://www.austinfowler.com/ 

Brooke & Lou  https://brookeandlou.com/collections/labor-day-shop 

Urban Undercover https://urbanundercover.com/pages/about 

Poppy Fun Fashion https://www.instagram.com/poppy_fun_fashion/?hl=en 

The Window Box https://www.windowboxplants.com/ 

Henna & Hijabs  https://hennaandhijabs.com/  

Dottir https://www.dottirshop.com/ 

Fox Lake Furniture https://www.foxlakefurniture.com/  

Happy Everything MN https://www.happyeverythingmn.com/ 

Worker B https://www.worker-b.com/ 

Namakan https://namakangoods.com/ 

Skotch Kooler https://skotchkoolerusa.com/ 

Verist  www.shopverist.com

Art By Aleisha https://byaleisha.com/ 

Siena Soap Company https://www.sienasoap.com/ 

SJC Body Love  https://sjcbodylove.com/  

GiftyWrap https://giftywrap.com/ 

Shop Country Club https://www.depop.com/shopcountryclub/ 

LATITUDE https://www.latitudempls.com/ 

Wondrous Crane https://www.wondrouscrane.com/ 

Morey and Me  https://www.moreyandmebarkery.com/ 

United Goods USA https://www.unitedgoodsusa.com/ 

Puzzle Twist https://www.puzzletwist.com/ 

Zelba and Mary https://www.zelbamary.com/ 

The Grande Gallery https://www.grandegallery.com/ 

Blue Heron https://blueheronsoaps.com/ 

Onyx Cool https://onyxcool.com/ 

Opal Cool https://opalcool.com/ 

Molly Pepper https://molly-pepper.com/ 

Karen Morris Millinery https://www.kmhats.com/ 

The Zero(ish) Co. https://www.zeroishco.com/ 

Larissa Loden https://larissaloden.com/ 

Embellish https://www.embellishalc.com/ 

Sweet Heaven by Nne https://www.sweetheavenbynne.com/  

Chin Chin Delight https://www.chinchindelight.com/ 

Shop in the City https://www.shopinthecity.com/ 

Native Roots Trading Post https://www.nativerootstradingpost.com/ 

Minnesota Awesome https://minnesota-awesome.com/ 

Joel Kaplan Art https://www.joelkaplanwatercolors.com/ 

Onyx Candles https://onyxcandles.com/ 

Nickichicki https://nickichicki.com/ 

Hejlov https://hejlov.com/ 

Junita’s Jar https://junitasjar.com/ 

San Jose Chocolate https://www.chocolatesanjose-minneapolis.com/ 

San Jose baby brand 

Here’s the Deal Spice Company https://www.heresthedeal.co/#/  

Hepp Salt Co. https://heppssalt.com/ 

The Smiling Olive https://thesmilingolive.com/ 

Isadore Nut Co. https://www.isadorenutco.com/ 

Hobby Farmer Canning Co. https://www.hobbyfarmerfoods.com/  

Thumbs Cookies https://www.thumbscookies.com/ 

Double Take Salsa https://www.doubletakesalsa.com/ 

We are Nuts https://wearenutsmn.com/ 

Sharab Shrubs https://www.sharabshrubs.com/ 

Coccinella Mediterranean Heritage https://www.coccinellastore.com/  

Our Glass https://www.our-glass.com/ 

Soak it Up https://soakitup.shop/ 

Chrissy’s Tree House https://www.instagram.com/chrissys_treehouse/?hl=en 

North Mallow https://northmallow.com/ 

Leather Works Minnesota  https://leatherworksminnesota.com/ 

Kursiv Organics  https://kursivorganics.com/  

Local Craft Brewers Will Have Limited-edition MN Pint Day Pint Glasses Available on Black Friday Weekend

CRAFT BEER ENTHUSIASTS CAN CELEBRATE SMALL BREWERY SUNDAY WITH LIMITED-EDITION 2022 MN PINT DAY GLASSWARE

MN Pint Day pint glasses available at 40+ breweries and brewpubs starting Black Friday weekend

On November 27, in honor of Small Brewery Sunday and Black Friday weekend, craft beer lovers are invited to visit more than 40 Minnesota craft breweries and brewpubs around the state to celebrate the 2022 Minnesota Pint Day and purchase limited-edition MN Pint Day pint glasses.

MN Pint Day was created by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild (MNCBG), the state’s nonprofit association for craft breweries and brewpubs. The day, and the exclusive glassware, is designed to give MN craft beer fans a fun excuse to grab some friends, share a pint, and support their favorite breweries this holiday season.

“When craft beer enthusiasts gather and purchase beer, merchandise, or gift cards over the holidays, it has a huge impact for these small businesses and their communities,” says MNCBG Executive Director Jess Talley. “MN Pint Day is a great way to celebrate Small Brewery Sunday as well as to encourage fans to remember to buy local this holiday season.”

Individual businesses will decide how to celebrate MN Pint Day, what promotions to offer with their pint glasses, and how long to offer those promotions. Pint glasses can only be found at participating breweries and brewpubs while supplies last.

This year’s pint glass design was done by Marcus Paulsen of Lupulin Brewing and Big MP Design. Marcus is the recipient of numerous awards, including Best Art & Design at the MNCBG’s MN Brewer’s Cup in 2019 and 2021.

Visit the website to see the growing list of participating breweries, glassware artwork, and, later this month, an interactive map highlighting promotions.

Founded in 2000, the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild is a not-for-profit organization comprise of more than 175+ Minnesota brewery and brewpub members. The Guild showcases the talent of Minnesota’s craft brewers and promotes Minnesota’s brewing industry by sponsoring festivals and special events, including the MN Brewers Cup, the State Fair’s Brewed in Minnesota exhibit, All Pints North, and Autumn Brew Review. The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild’s mission is to promote, protect, and grow a robust Minnesota craft brewing industry by building a healthy beer culture and community that allows for independent brewers, industry stakeholders, and craft beer fans to thrive.

City Council Approves Brian O’Hara for Mpls Police Chief

The City Council has approved Mayor Jacob Frey’s nomination of Brian O’Hara to serve as police chief. O’Hara joins the City after serving as deputy mayor of Newark, New Jersey, in charge of overseeing strategic public safety initiatives. He officially starts Monday, Nov. 7.

In 2001, O’Hara joined the Newark Police Department as a police officer, rising through the ranks to become a captain in 2016. In 2021, he was appointed as the public safety director for Newark overseeing more than 1,960 employees including 996 sworn police officers, 611 firefighters and 346 civilian employees and a budget that exceeded $200 million. In that role, O’Hara enhanced the collaborative working relationships among federal, state and local partners.

As former captain of the Newark Police Department’s Consent Decree & Planning Division (2017-2020), O’Hara worked extensively with the Department of Justice on the 2016 consent decree between the U.S. and the City of Newark.

The chief of police position is a four-year appointment.

Watch today's press conference following O'Hara's confirmation. 

Manish Kalra, Recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award

Article by Becky Fillinger 

Manish KalraIn 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) to recognize the important role of volunteers in maintaining America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to take action, too.

Our neighbor Manish Kalra recently won the PVSA Gold Medal under this program. We talked to him about his ideas around volunteering and how you might get more involved too. 

Q:  Congratulations on winning the PVSA Gold Medal. Could you please tell us about the organization that recommended you for the award? 

A:  Project Management Institute nominated me for this award. It recognizes the service and dedication to the institution of project management to create better outcomes for businesses, community and society. From ensuring supplier diversity, to securing leadership roles for our BIPOC members, to forging meaningful relationships with our community partners, we are proud to have done a lot of work in the field of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, to create a culture where everyone feels valued.

Q:  You are a fulltime IT professional at Fairview Health, President/CEO of PMI Minnesota and serve on multiple boards. Please tell us your secret in finding time to volunteer.

A:  I think If you believe strongly in something, the universe will make ways to manifest time for it. I don’t believe in the concept of finding time. It is about finding the right thing to do, at the right time.

Q:  What did it mean to you to win the PVSA Gold Medal? 

A: It was an honor and an absolute privilege to win the PVSA award. More than the win itself, I am very excited about the buzz it generated, and the awareness it brought towards the power of volunteering and its impact on the community.

Q:  Where do you volunteer? 

A: I started volunteering at The Aliveness Project , as a Chef, cooking meals for HIV+ /LGBTQ+ people of our community. I love to cook, so even though it felt like a lot of work some days (and my hands hurt), it was always a good feeling at the end of the day. I am currently on the board of Twin Cities Quorum, One Heartland and PMI Minnesota. I am also the Leader of our cross-cultural leadership network (ERG) at Fairview, where we work to create an inclusive culture and opportunities for growth for our BIPOC employees.

Q:  Very impressive – thank you! What would you tell people who either don’t know how to get started on volunteering or feel they’re too busy to volunteer?

A:  I would call them to peruse their passions. Think about your interests and what makes you happy. If you like animals, start giving some time to the Animal Humane Society. If you enjoy time with children, volunteer for a kid’s camp. If you are interested in LGBTQ equity, look for organizations that serve the community. If you follow your passions, volunteering opportunities will come easy.

Q:  To stay inspired, how may we follow your news? 

A:  Please do - I am active on social media – Facebook and LinkedIn.

Theatre in the Round Director Linda Paulsen Provides Insight to the World Premiere of The Mysterious Affair at Styles

Article by Becky Fillinger

Kate Danley’s adaptation of the Agatha Christie’s novel The Mysterious Affair at Styles, will premiere at Theater in the Round (TRP) November 18-December 18. We talked to Director Linda Paulsen about the enduring legacy of Mrs. Christie, casting Hercule Poirot and how to purchase tickets to the annual holiday mystery show.

Linda PaulsonQ:  Agatha Christie wrote her first novel, The Mysterious Affair at Styles, over a century ago. Since that first novel, she wrote 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, as well as the world’s longest-running play – The Mousetrap. Her books have sold over a billion copies in the English language and a billion in translation, in fact she’s the best-selling novelist of all time. Why do you think we remain interested in her works?

A:  Mrs. Christie loved to put a spin on her characters, to turn a good guy into a bad guy or to vindicate a supposed villain; to lead her readers and audiences down many avenues, but always to the final and just result. We know she will try to fool us, but, in the end, we will be rewarded with who did it. But more important than who, is how it was done, as audiences will discover in The Mysterious Affair at Styles.

Q:  Hercule Poirot was introduced in Styles.  So many leading men have portrayed the iconic detective. Who will play Poirot in your adaptation, and can you share why he was cast in the role?

Ben TallenA:  More than 30 well-known actors, and countless hometown favorites have played Hercule Poirot. So, his look is as varied as the cases he investigates. But his manner is as consistent as crime itself. In casting Poirot, I wanted an actor who could relate to Lt. Arthur Hastings, his unlikely partner in this investigation, and who could carry this well-known role without simply copying what others have done. After all, this was Christie’s introduction of her famous detective and as such she is setting the bar for all others to follow. 

Ben Tallen is playing Hercule Poirot in this production. Any actor playing this well-known character is challenged to mimic the familiar traits all the while attempting to make his mark in their performance. Ben brings humor and warmth, intelligence, and humanity to this now very familiar character of Agatha Christie’s. Audiences have grown used to many versions of this character and the actor’s challenge, among others, is to make his audience focus more on his method of crime solving.

Q:  How many actors will be in your production? Will they play multiple roles?

A:  This adaptation, which is having its world premiere on TRP’s arena stage, has a cast of 12. Kate Danley offered me options for doubling in her adaptation, but TRP has a history of excellent turnout at auditions, and I had over 70 actors to choose from during a two-day audition process. Auditions at TRP are open to all, allowing directors to offer roles to veteran actors as well as newcomers. This cast of 12 includes seven actors who are new to TRP and our arena stage!

Q:  A commenter in The British Weekly in 1921 noted that Styles was “well written, well-proportioned and full of surprises.”  Will your production keep us guessing the murderer’s identity until the end of the play?

A:  Another commented on Mrs. Christie’s use of so many clues (red herrings) as to keep the reader guessing until the very end. And she does not disappoint in Styles, taking her readers, or audience in this case, to many locations that may (or may not) have importance. So much so that she even included a layout (in her book) of the rooms at this country estate, Styles Court, to give a better perspective when moments occurred in different parts of the house! The numerous locales meant I needed to distill locations, inside or away from the manor, into what our arena stage could portray and what it does best – putting our audience so close to the clues, the suspects, even the victim.

Q:  What’s next for you after Styles? How may we follow your news?

A:  I started last April, managing the workshops of this adaptation of Christie’s first book, and to work with Kate Danley as she prepared her script for the stage and for TRP’s 71st Season.

We are planning a talkback with the cast and playwright on Friday, December 16 after the show and are also working on scheduling a panel with the local chapter of Sisters in Crime about the staying power of mystery and female-identifying authors’ influence on the genre. The date for that panel is still TBD.

Working on new works and with playwrights is a part of our mission as a theatre that serves a diverse community. Watch for more on this unique arena stage. Follow us at our website and on Facebook. Purchase tickets for the show here.

Mill City Farmers Market 2022 Outdoor Season is Complete, Winter Market Dates are Set

I went overboard at the October 29 Mill City Farmers Market, and couldn't come close to fitting all the goodies into this basket.

The Farmers Market staff did a fantastic job curating new vendors this year, and I hope to continue seeing them at the November 2022 - April 2023 winter markets inside the Mill City Museum.

Winter Market hours are 10a-1pm, and here are the dates: 

November 5, 19

December 3, 17

January 7, 21

February 4, 18

March 4, 18

April 1, 15