December 18 is the final Mill City Farmers Market for Singing Hills Goat Dairy

Via a December 15 e-announcement from the Mill City Farmers Market:

Coffee Toast to Singing Hills Farm

Saturday, December 18, is Singing Hills’ last day at our market until the business is sold and someone else picks up the hard work of Lynne, Nancy and everyone who built Singing Hills Goat Dairy. 

To celebrate the contributions Singing Hills has made to our market for the past 12 years and Lynne and Nancy’s retirement from markets, we will be hosting a coffee, bread and cheese hour at the market on Saturday morning. Find us outside the front doors of the Mill City Museum at 10 a.m to thank, send love, say goodbye and stock up on cheese with Lynne and Nancy.

Singing Hills is working with Renewing the Countryside and American Farmland Trust to facilitate the farm’s transition to an emerging farmer. For more information and to support this work, visit: https://tinyurl.com/2p9xx8ty.

MPRB Shares Updated Concept for Graco Park

Via a December 14 e-announcement from Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

A view of Hall's Island, Plymouth Avenue Bridge and East Bank Trail running through the future Graco Park. Image courtesy of Mississippi Watershed Management Organization.

Let MPRB know what you think about refined concept for new Northeast riverfront park!

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is developing a new park along the Northeast Minneapolis riverfront called Graco Park! Last summer MPRB staff collected initial feedback from the community and researched opportunities and constraints at the site, which is located just north of the Plymouth Avenue Bridge with a gravel beach and Mississippi East Bank Trail running through it.

In the fall, three distinct design concepts for Graco Park were published for public feedback. After considering that feedback, a new single, preferred concept debuted today. Use the link below to learn more about Graco Park, including:

• Results from community engagement so far
• Graphics, illustrations and a flythrough video explaining the new, single preferred concept
• A short survey to let us know your thoughts on the preferred concept

Graco Park Concept

The online survey will be open through Friday, Jan. 21, 2022. Feedback on the preferred concept will be used to refine the concept further, then there will be a public hearing on the final concept, which will be subject to approval by Park Commissioners. Visit the Graco Park project page and sign up for email updates to stay informed as the process continues.

Illustration of the Graco Park entrance from Sibley St NE and Plymouth/8th Ave NE

Graco Park Concept

The preferred Graco Park concept features:

• A multiuse building with public restrooms, a non-MPRB tenant and public community space
• A trail under the Plymouth Avenue Bridge that connects to Boom Island Park
• Native habitat restoration, rain gardens and stormwater management features
• Gathering spaces, walkways and river access
• The Mississippi East Bank Trail will continue to travel through the park, with safety upgrades at the intersection of Plymouth/8th Avenue NE and Sibley Street NE

A phased construction approach is planned for Graco Park. Work is tentatively planned to start in 2022, with the park opening in 2024. Future phases would include additional park elements as funding becomes available:

• Picnic shelter
• Watercraft rental
• Additional park building
• Public art on Hall's Island
• Hall's Island river overlook

Please visit the Graco Park concept page for more information and take a short survey to weigh in on the plan. The survey is open through Friday, Jan. 21, 2022.

A bird's eye view of the concept plan for Graco Park. Click or tap the image to open a larger file in an internet browser.

Get Involved

In addition to the online survey, there's a virtual community open house on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, 4:30-6 pm on Zoom. Use the link below to join the event online, where you can view an in-depth presentation of the concept, ask project staff questions and give feedback.

Join Open House

Meeting ID: 837 1774 1549

You can also invite MPRB staff to present the Graco Park concept to your group or organization in December 2021 or January 2022! Please email cchristensen@minneapolisparks.org for more information.

To learn more about this project and others, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/planning.

Topsy Turvey Minneapolis

Submitted by Ric Rosow

I was editing a sunrise photo of the cityscape and had to redo it several times. In the process I came up with the idea of flipping and mirroring the photo. This involved some thought and lots of trial and error. The image could be, but is not, a statement on the current state of the city, state and nation. Or it could be, and maybe is, a science fiction depiction of an alternative world. I had no "artistic statement" in mind while creating this. I was simply exploring what I could do with my art and having fun doing it.

See more of my work @ricrosowphotography @treslechesartgallery @nemaa.

Our Lady of Lourdes & the City: Part I

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church has stood tall along the Mississippi riverfront for over 140 years. It has seen Minneapolis grow from a quaint milling village to one of the most prosperous cities in the United States. When the original Church building was constructed in 1855 by the Universalists, it was located in the Village of St. Anthony, which itself was founded in 1849. In 1872 both the Village of St. Anthony and the City of Minneapolis merged, and five years later, the local French Catholics founded Our Lady of Lourdes. The prosperity of both the Church and city has been intermingled ever since.

The heart of the church building was constructed by the First Universalist Church in 1855 and became the first stone Universalist church in the city. It was a rectangular Greek Revival style building measuring 67 by 44 feet, built of native limestone from just a few blocks away along the Mississippi River. This style reflected the "temple of reason" which was significant to Universalist teachings. The waning numbers of the congregation could not support the upkeep of the building, so they abandoned the structure in 1866.

The building when it housed the First Universalist Church, 1857.

While all of this was taking place, the French-Canadian population of modern-day Northeast Minneapolis was worshipping roughly three fourths of a mile away at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Initially, most immigrants to the Village of St. Anthony were French-Canadian, and by 1855 they made up roughly half of the village’s population. Around this time, immigrants from different European nations found their way to the area, and the population of the diocese rose from 8,000 Catholics in 1853 to over 50,000 by 1858. This caused a problem to arise at St. Anthony of Padua. The French speaking priests had a very hard time keeping the peace between the many different languages within the church. This resulted in a few of the cultures breaking away and establishing their own churches, such as the Germans did with St. Boniface, and the Polish with All Saints.

The two tenants that stayed were the French and the Irish, and in 1860, an Irish priest was assigned to the parish. To no one’s surprise, this move did not ease tensions. As the next few years passed, the French congregation of St. Anthony of Padua decided they wanted to keep true to their roots, and the only way they could accomplish this was to find a new home. They needed to raise a fair amount of money and find a suitable location that was still close enough for their congregation to be able to reach, and in 1877, things finally went their way when the First Universalist Church building went up for sale. The French congregation acted quickly and purchased the land and building, and officially named their new parish Notre Dame de Lourdes after the Marian apparition that happened merely 19 years earlier.

The building when it was vacant, but still owned by the Universalists, taken in 1872.

The small Greek Revival building did not meet the immediate needs of the Church, so once more money was raised, and they transformed their house of worship into one that looked like a proper Catholic church. From 1880-1883, most of the major changes occurred that would make the church into a very small version of a French Gothic cathedral. The church was enlarged to 135 by 65 feet, a higher-pitched wooden roof was put over the flatter Greek Revival roof, a sacristy was added to the east side, and doorways were installed in the northwest and southwest corners of the church with curved stone staircases leading up to them.

During the latter portion of the 19th century, the English Protestants of Canada were alienating the French Catholics, which saw a mass immigration of those French-Canadians to the United States. With 3,700,000 new immigrants coming to the U.S., many of them sought a familiar setting, and Minneapolis provided just that with their saw and flour mills and openness to new cultures and traditions. Because of this, Our Lady of Lourdes saw a massive increase in membership. In 1882, the parish had 350 families from Canada alone, and in 1900, that jumped to 400.

As the City of Minneapolis was growing, so was the Church. They both welcomed with open arms those who were looking for a new place to raise their families, and it was this positive and accepting nature of the Church and City that made both what they are today. With the Church and City seeing immediate success, the future was looking bright. 

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About Michael Rainville, Jr.

A 6th generation Minneapolitan, Michael Rainville, Jr. received his B.A. in History, Graduate Certificate in Museum Studies, and M.A. in Art History from the University of St. Thomas.

Michael is a historical interpreter at the Minnesota History Center and has been a lead guide at Mobile Entertainment LLC, giving Segway, walking, and biking tours of the Minneapolis riverfront for 9+ years.

 

He can be reached at mrainvillejr@comcast.net

Update on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at 6:23AM by David Tinjum

--------------------------------

Read part II

http://millcitytimes.com/news/our-lady-of-lourdes-the-city-part-ii.html

Waxing Crescent Moon Over Campbell Mithun Tower

Submitted by Ric Rosow

The moon made a repeat appearance to set over the top of the Campbell Mithun Tower early on the morning of December 12th. After seeing it over the US Bank Stadium during the evening, I projected that its trajectory would take it low over the Tower around 12:30 A.M. It did just that.

This photograph is the result of processing one image twice. I processed it first to bring out the detail in the surface of the moon. That left the rest of the image in the dark of night. I processed the same image a second time to increase the exposure so that the Tower was visible, just as it was when I was viewing the scene. That blew out all the detail in the moon and made it a white hot featureless object. I could have used two images and then blended them together. I took those types of images but when it came to processing, it was more straight forward and effective to use one image.

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The Tower itself is very interesting at night. When lit up this way at night it takes on the features of a mask of a lion’s face. When viewing the Tower at night I immediately think of the lion from a rather famous play that premiered in Minneapolis in 1997 before going onto Broadway. If you did not see the play on one of its repeat appearances here, then perhaps you saw the movie or have heard the music.

See more of my work @ricrosowphotography @treslechesartgallery @nemaa.

Miller Lite Offers Free, Safe Transit in Minneapolis-St. Paul This New Year’s Eve

Via a recent Press Release:

The 33rd annual Free Rides program is part of the company’s mission to help individuals celebrate the new year responsibly

This holiday season, Molson Coors is spreading more than holiday cheer – it is also spreading awareness for making safe, responsible choices when celebrating by offering free rides on New Year’s Eve through its 2021 Miller Lite Free Rides program. Miller Lite will offer free rides in Minneapolis-St. Paul on the Metro Transit beginning at 6 p.m. The Lightrail will be free until 11:30 p.m. on December 31 and bus lines will be free until 3 a.m. on January 1.

Since its inception, Metro Transit has provided over 1.5 million safe rides to the Minneapolis-St. Paul community through the Free Rides program. Free Rides began in Minneapolis-St. Paul in 1997 with its St. Patrick’s Day program, which has since provided over 1.2 million rides. Its New Year’s Eve program began in 2011, providing on average 34,000 free rides per year.

“We are proud to offer safe and convenient rides every day of the year, and especially on New Year’s Eve when we know people appreciate having more options to travel responsibly,” Metro Transit General Manager Wes Kooistra said. “This continued partnership is part of our commitment to enhancing public safety for our riders and the communities we serve.”

In partnership with local mass transit, the Free Rides program has provided free access to the bus, rail or train systems in key markets across the country for more than three decades to encourage celebrating responsibly. Since the beginning of the program, over eight million people have gotten home safely because of Free Rides. This year, the program will serve six different metro areas across the country, including Denver, Milwaukee, Chicago, Dallas, Minneapolis/St. Paul and Phoenix.

“I’m incredibly proud to be part of an organization that is so committed to the communities it serves. At Molson Coors, we want the places where we work to be even better places to live and that includes ensuring safety in those communities,” said Tami Garrison, Community Affairs Director, Molson Coors. “Our Free Rides program is just one of many ways Molson Coors helps others celebrate responsibly. People can ring in 2022 knowing they have a transportation alternative on New Year’s Eve.”

Along with the Free Rides program, the company offers other opportunities throughout the year to prevent drunk driving, all which align with the company’s commitment to implement initiatives to prevent alcohol-related incidents. Riders can make their plans for a safe ride home by reviewing routes on the local public transit website at https://www.metrotransit.org/.

Small Business Spotlight: Houser

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

What do you do as a merchant when Big Tech decides to shut down your Instagram account? Denise Houser is facing this issue – in the busiest shopping season of the year for her small North Loop business, Houser.

Denise Houser

On October 22, Denise received a terse message from Instagram that her account was shut down for “violations of community policies.” Appeals to Instagram and Facebook Business Customer Service produced a not-wished-for-result – an email stating the account would not be restored. What can we do? Here’s a solid tip: Visit her North Loop store, buy local, shop small. We can’t win every battle against the Goliaths (not in the first round) but we can rally around our local businesses. 

Q:  Please tell us the vision behind Houser and why you chose to locate your boutique in the North Loop.  

A:  The vision behind Houser is all about giving back. We started with wanting to create ethically sourced, unique jewelry, and that grew into community empowerment being the foundation of our brand. We operate under our three main values: honoring the earth, empowering communities and giving back.

"We operate under our three main values: honoring the earth, empowering communities and giving back."

The jewelry in the store is designed by me, but many of the components I use are made by our Karen Hill Tribe partners in rural Thailand. Ethical consumption is at the core of our mission at Houser. It was important to us, as a jewelry design and lifestyle company, that you know when you shop with us you are shopping sustainably and uplifting the community by supporting small, women and BIPOC-owned businesses. As a result, our store in the North Loop ended up being the perfect intersection with our Minneapolis community and as a space where we can highlight the work and voices of typically marginalized groups. Additionally, many of the brands we carry in the store hold the same values we do and prioritize sustainability and community support. We are deeply committed to being as sustainable as possible, using ethical and fair-trade design practices, empowering our communities near and far and prioritizing giving back. Come visit us at 212 North 2nd Street!

Q:  You’ve said that each piece of jewelry you create is “inspired by the power of contradiction”. Could you tell us more about this idea?  

A:  In life I have often been inspired by the power of contradiction. Things that supposedly oppose or conflict with each other, when paired together, can create something powerful and unique. Pearls with leather, sparkling gemstones with antique prayer pendants, pieces placed off center - as a designer and as a woman I’ve found that these juxtapositions make a compelling statement. 

Q:  How did you learn to craft jewelry? 

A:  I’ve always been very crafty, creating things was a big part of my self-care. I learned some of the basics of making jewelry by taking classes from local art centers. But it was mostly by trial and error! I really developed my own aesthetic when I was able to fuse my core values of empowerment and sustainability into my work. Then everything fell into place design-wise.

Q:  Why should we chose artisan handcrafted jewelry? 

A:  Each piece of handcrafted jewelry is truly unique. Since jewelry is so personal, when you wear a handcrafted piece, I believe it truly becomes your own. Because the components are made by hand, each bead or link of chain is slightly different than another, which gives every piece an organic, distinct feel. When we started partnering with Hill Tribe silversmiths in Thailand, I found that many of these artisans produced the pieces with their whole families. In addition, each family specializes in certain designs of beads, rings, earrings or chains, and this is passed on from one generation to the next. In each piece of jewelry there is an intergenerational story. By purchasing Houser jewelry, you are helping to support these families and keeping their beautiful craft alive. 

Q:  It’s holiday shopping time - what products will we find in stock at Houser? 

A:  We love the holiday season because it’s such a great time for us to showcase all of our diverse products that we carry. We have something for every shopper, and everyone on your list. Of course, we always want to highlight our unique, handcrafted jewelry pieces. We have everything from simple hoops and chains to ornate statement pieces. Additionally, we have cruelty free & handcrafted apothecary products, candles and incense that support animal rescue and the LA LGBT center, vegan dark chocolate, journals and paper made with recycled materials, puzzles, self-care items like bath salts and eye pillows, crystals, divination cards, and so much more. We know how competitive the market is, so we always want to emphasize that when you shop with us you are putting your dollars towards the greater good. 

Come visit us at 212 North 2nd Street! Follow us on Facebook.

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Requests Your Input on Draft Neighborhood Traffic Calming Process

Via a December e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Minneapolis Public Works wants your input on a new process we are proposing to address traffic safety concerns and traffic calming requests on neighborhood streets. The process provides a way for community members to request traffic calming and for Public Works to review those requests fairly, transparently, and equitably. 

The proposed process for neighborhood traffic calming seeks to provide a process that:

• better considers the overall network;
• is data-driven and transparent; and
• is more equitable.

An overview of the new neighborhood traffic calming process is available here. 

You can find additional details about the proposal here, including the link for sharing comments. We are accepting comments on the draft through December 31.

After reviewing feedback, Public Works will finalize the process early in 2022. We will share final details on how you can request traffic calming in the spring.

Experience the Twin Cities Offers Minnesota Gift Boxes with Twin Cities Delivery by Santa Claus

Experience the Twin Cities is now offering its unique holiday gift option of locally-curated gift boxes delivered locally by Santa Claus via the colorful Experience the Twin Cities bus. This year the company is offering a selection of five gift boxes, with options for any age and relationship. Santa Claus will deliver the gift box within a 20-mile radius of the Twin Cities.

The gift boxes are curated with goods from local businesses, including The Cookie Store, North Mallow, Annie B.’s Candy, NorthMade Co., We Are Nuts, and more. The children box, Armful of Hugs, comes with a Minnesota activity book, vinyl sticker, Santa cookie, and hot cocoa bomb. The MinneSNOWta box offers to warm hearts with a knit hat from Northern Print Co., chocolates from Abdallah Candies, mittens, a hot cocoa kit, and more. Other gift box options include the Sota Vibes gift box and two sizes of the deluxe Season of Joy gift box. Prices range from $40 to $99, with local Santa delivery included for free. Nationwide shipping and customized corporate orders are also available.

Armful of Hugs

MinneSNOWta

Season of Joy

Experience the Twin Cities has been in business for ten years and is typically known for its guided specialty tours to local breweries, wineries, restaurants, and more. When tours were cancelled last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the company developed the gift box offerings as a special way for Minnesotans to support and enjoy local businesses from home.

“We had so much fun delivering these gift boxes last year, we made it bigger and better this year with more local brands involved and more gift box options,” said Rebecca Pfeiffer, owner of Experience the Twin Cities. “The Santa delivery really gives it a special touch. It’s quite a scene when we pull into a neighborhood with our colorful bus and Santa Claus at the wheel. It has also appealed to businesses who are trying to stay connected to their work-from-home employees. We’re happy to be part of that connection and deliver a fantastic gift box with Minnesota goodies in the process.”

Experience the Twin Cities gift box offerings are available through their website. The company is also offering a variety of festive tours through the holiday season. Follow them on Facebook.

Small Business Spotlight: B’YOUtique

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Shalawn RandallIt’s another ribbon cutting this Wednesday at 11AM – welcome Shalawn Randall and her store, B‘YOUtique, to the Baker Center!

We spoke to Shalawn about opening a storefront after being online for five years and her fabulous merchandise. Come for the grand opening at 733 Marquette Avenue S, Suite 205, in the Skyway and consider spending a little holiday cash to launch a brand-new downtown business!

Q:  You’re working as a full-time business data analyst but are also launching your boutique. What’s your secret to balancing so many goals and obligations?

A:  Becky, my strength and balance come from faith and passion. God is the center of my source of strength and motivation, and this is what keeps me going on the days I feel like I can’t. My passion is fueled by the will to inspire confidence in people by expressing themselves through style. Because when you look good you tend to feel good. My customers feel good!

Q:  Who is your customer?

A:  I like to call my customers ‘Style Mavens’ - and a style maven to me is someone who does not follow fashion trends, but is a trendsetter.

They utilize their style individuality to express their personality and unwavering confidence.

Coup d'Oeil Sunglasses

Q:  What products will we find at B’YOUtique?

A:  At B’YOUtique you can find a variety of style accessories such as hats, scarves, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, t-shirts and handbags, to name a few. Our style accessory options are constantly changing to keep offering unique designs and styles.

Q·  How may we follow your news?

A:  You can sign up for updates, newsletters, and email notifications through my online boutique’s website. In addition, B’YOutique is also on Facebook and Instagram.

Experience Thermaculture This Winter with Hewing Hotel's Rooftop Pool and Sauna

Photo credit Hewing Hotel

With spectacular views of the Minneapolis skyline, the Hewing Hotel's rooftop spa pool is the largest commercial sauna in Minneapolis. In true Minnesota winter fashion, the pool is an ideal destination for a polar plunge before warming up in the accompanying sauna.

After a COVID-induced hiatus, the hotel is bringing back weekly Thermaculture Thursdays starting December 9. Experience a guided sauna experience on the Hewing Hotel’s magnificent rooftop terrace, led by veteran guide Ericka Jones. Guests 21 and older are welcomed for a gentle sauna steam meditation with essential oils, followed by rooftop hot pool soak and social. Thermaculture Thursday events are comprised of three rounds of guided sessions, followed by a 20 minute cool-down session. During the cool-down rounds, attendees have the opportunity to use the cold plunge, rehydrate, sample essential oils, and enjoy a spectacular view of the Minneapolis skyline from the pool.

Reservations

Photo credit Hewing Hotel

November 2021 by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

U of M College of Science and Engineering (CSE) Winter Light Shows Scheduled for Dec. 9, 10, 11

Join the University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering (CSE) for three dazzling light shows designed by science and engineering students. The high-tech light show features more than 250,000 LED lights set to music written and recorded by University of Minnesota students.

The 2021 CSE Winter Light Show dates are: 

• Thursday, December 9
• Friday, December 10
• Saturday, December 11

Shows are at 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m. on the Civil Engineering Building Courtyard, 500 Pillsbury Drive SE. Each show will last about 20 minutes. All events are free and open to the public. No tickets or reservations required.

Now in its 10th year, the show has become a campus winter tradition. Lights will surround the semi-circular Civil Engineering Courtyard and will be synchronized to music for a 360-degree sensory outdoor experience. Features include a giant 22-foot lighted tree, two 8-foot 3D snowman signs, 8-foot lighted arches, a 5-foot-by-12-foot lighted pixelated changeable sign, a 6-foot circular light structure, 10 two-foot lighted snowflakes, and several lighted trees. The students estimate that the show includes more than five miles of lights and extension cords.

The light show is presented by the University of Minnesota Tesla Works student group. The show features the technical and creative skills of University of Minnesota science and engineering students and their ability to have fun on campus—even in the winter.

Location: Civil Engineering Building Courtyard, 500 Pillsbury Drive SE

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel - December 3rd Project Update

Via a December 3rd e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

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.

Latest Project News

Chicago Ave

• Crews will begin setting up materials and equipment to install the dewatering well on the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Chicago Ave intersection the week of December 6.
  • There will be no sidewalk or lane closures needed to complete this work.
  • There may be short, periodic delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

Nicollet Mall

• Crews are setting up the dewatering well and pumps near the southeast corner of the Nicollet Mall and Washington Ave intersection.
  • The eastern sidewalk along Nicollet Mall between Washington Ave and 3rd St N is temporarily closed.
  • Pedestrians are still able to use the sidewalk on the west side of Nicollet Mall.
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave intersection remains open.

2nd Ave

• Crews are installing the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection. Drilling, excavating, and installing the shaft walls will continue through January 2022.
  • 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.

 4th Ave

• The east lane of 4th Ave S between 3rd St S and Washington Ave remains closed near the Washington Ave intersection. This is needed to complete setting up the dewatering well and pumps. The dewatering well is anticipated to be completely set up and running by the end of December.
  • The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S remains temporarily closed until the dewatering well is setup.
  • 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 remain open.

 Portland Ave

• The west lane of Portland Ave remains closed between 3rd St S and Washington Ave. This closure is needed to install the dewatering well and pump on the southwest corner of the intersection. Work is anticipated to be completed by the end of December.
  • During this closure, bicyclists share the open traffic lane and pedestrians should use the eastern sidewalk.

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue excavating soils above the storm sewer tunnel and grouting near the existing retaining wall at the Mississippi River portal site.
  • The parking lot off Portland Ave east of the Stone Arch Bridge, near Mill Ruins Park, is temporarily closed for the winter and will reopen spring 2022. This closure is necessary to complete the work in this area safely and efficiently.
  • The parking lot near Portland Ave and W River Pkwy remains open.

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.

Long-term closures/restrictions

• The north sidewalk along Washington Ave remains closed between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall through spring 2022. The contractor is utilizing an existing shaft in this area to connect the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
  • During this closure, pedestrians share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  • The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave remain open.

Stay Connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. 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 Public Works is Hiring and Training

From the December 3rd City of Minneapolis e-news:

Join the teams that keep Minneapolis running, and help spread the word about these opportunities with friends, family and community.

Minneapolis Public Works is hiring and training for several job openings: 

• Public Works service worker 1 trainee: performs manual labor, learns to drive and operate equipment. Supports the department’s construction and maintenance activities. You will be supported in obtaining your CDL Class B license.
• Public Works service worker 1: performs manual labor and drives and operates equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Public Works service worker 2: performs manual labor, drives and operates heavy specialty equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Water distribution operator 1: performs manual labor and semi-skilled work to maintain the City’s water distribution system.
• Water distribution operator 1 trainee: performs manual labor to maintain the City’s water distribution system.

Applications are accepted Dec. 6-Jan. 16, 2022.

Read more information online and attend one of several upcoming virtual and in-person information sessions throughout the application period.

Applicants can apply online on the City website.

The Cowles Center presents "Who Brought the Humbug?" Dec. 10-19

The Cowles Center is pleased to present Rhythm Street Movement's holiday special, Who Brought the Humbug? 

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A holiday party has begun but a humbug is afoot - can Ricci Milan and the gang find out who it is and continue celebration? Live music (with a full funk band), incredible tap dance, and a refreshing holiday story with sweet (but not cloying) morals make this a delightful show for the whole family.

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The in-person, eight-show run begins on December 10, and runs through December 18; Shows take place at 7:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:00 PM matinees are available on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the run. Tickets range from $35-$75 ($75 tickets include a VIP package). Learn more at thecowlescenter.org/humbug21.

Nonprofit Leader: Tonia Teasley, Regional CEO, American Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region

Article by Becky Fillinger

Tonia Teasley was recently appointed to CEO of the American Red Cross, Minnesota and Dakotas Region. It’s a large region, comprised of nine community chapters and five Blood Donation Centers, and serves more than 7.3 million people across Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. We spoke to Tonia about the priorities facing the organization and the many ways Mill District residents can get involved in their mission.

Q:  Congratulations on your appointment to CEO of our regional Red Cross. Please tell us about your interest in the Red Cross and priorities for the coming year. 

A:  A year ago, I had the opportunity to drive through an area in Northern California that had been devastated by wildfires just a couple of days before I was there. Seeing the homes that were lost and talking to people who had no home to return to had a profound impact on me. The mission of the American Red Cross is to prevent and alleviate the human suffering that accompanies that kind of disaster. That’s a daunting and inspiring goal, and one I’m ready to take on.

My priority for the coming year is to continue to strengthen the relationship the Red Cross has with the volunteers and donors in this extraordinary community. For me, that means establishing personal relationships with as many of our incredible volunteers and donors as possible. I have so much to learn from them about seeing the need and doing whatever it takes to meet that need – something that our founder, Clara Barton, was so very committed to doing.

We work with our neighbors to make their community more prepared and more resilient in times of crisis. For example, training groups in lifesaving first aid, CPR/AED skills, sharing preparedness resources, such as our free Red Cross apps, and inspiring people to give blood.

The more people and organizations prepare themselves and help each other get ready for emergencies, the more the Red Cross and our partners can focus on those more at risk.

Q:  What are your critical needs and how can we in the Mill District help?

A:  Our critical needs, simply put, are time, blood and money. Donating time to help people after home fires, giving blood at our center at 1201 West River Parkway, or donating money so we can help communities who may not be as fortunate as our neighborhood, are all ways people can become involved.

Thankfully, recent studies show Minnesota ranks second in the country in volunteerism and third in philanthropic giving. Our state is also known for generously rolling up their sleeves to donate blood.

Many people are surprised to find out that more than 90% of our workforce is volunteers. Last year, more than 2,200 people served as Red Cross volunteers, donating in excess of 140,000 hours. One of my goals is to make those hours not just fulfilling, but fun.

In addition to volunteers, our generous financial donors provide the funds that fuel our mission. Our Minnesota and Dakotas region, headquartered in downtown Minneapolis, is a proud member of the Mill City neighborhood. But the Red Cross isn’t buildings – it’s the vehicle connecting the people who want to help with people who need the help – every community, every day.

We supply about 40% of the nation’s blood and we’re currently experiencing historically low blood supply levels, the lowest we’ve seen in over a decade. Compounding this issue, we’re facing the same staffing shortages other nonprofits and businesses across the country are experiencing. It’s a domino effect – staffing shortages mean fewer blood drives and less blood collected. I know that every two seconds someone in our country needs blood. We have a donor center in our Minneapolis building, right in the neighborhood, and encourage everyone who can, to donate blood or platelets.

To learn more and get involved, visit our web site at redcross.org/mndaks.

Q:  I read that the Red Cross Donor App won Best Charitable Giving App in 2021. Please tell us some of the app's features.

A:  The American Red Cross app was ranked Best for Blood Donors in 2021 among top platforms for donating money, time or resources to charity by BestApp.com, an in-depth guide for the latest mobile app reviews and technology trends.

The Red Cross Blood Donor App was selected for helping make giving blood convenient and easy with many special features for donors. Users of the app can start by learning about eligibility based on health, recent travel, etc., then search for blood drives nearby using a built-in map tool and schedule an appointment. Once users have a scheduled appointment, they can complete the RapidPass pre-screening questionnaire directly in the app to save time during their blood drive visit. Donors can also use the app to view donation history and results from health screenings, track which hospital their blood goes to, and learn about other ways to volunteer or contribute.

Q:  Does the American Red Cross Tiffany Circle have a strong local presence?

A:  The Tiffany Circle is a community of women leaders who advance the American Red Cross mission through a focused investment of time, talent and treasure by engaging and embracing women locally, nationally and internationally.

Since the Tiffany Circle was founded in 2007, its members have made a lifesaving impact in their local communities, across the country and around the world. More than 1,000 members strong, these women have collectively provided extraordinary support - more than $120 million - to fulfill the mission of the Red Cross. The Twin Cities Area Chapter was one of eight founding chapters. Our regional Tiffany Circle is honored to count 36 women leaders among its ranks, several of whom also sit on the national board.

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A:  Please do follow us on Facebook, Twitter or our website. 

MPRB Announces New “Scholarship FUNd” Program for Minneapolis Residents 17 and Under and Adults 55+

Via a November 30 e-announcement from Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) now offers a new scholarship fund designed to help more Minneapolis residents participate in a wide variety of MPRB recreation program.

The new fund, known as the Scholarship FUNd, is a result of the MPRB Board of Commissioners and Superintendent Al Bangoura’s commitment to investment in youth. The Scholarship FUNd will work together with the existing Recreation Fee Waiver program, which is part of the MPRB’s Recreation Fee Assistance Program.

“We have never turned a child away from our recreation centers because of an inability to pay fees,” said MPRB Superintendent Al Bangoura. “This new fund simply adds another avenue for more Minneapolis residents to participate in our recreation programs and other activities.”

The Scholarship FUNd is available to Minneapolis residents 17 and under and 55 + with financial limitations. The process for applying and income eligibility are the same for the FUNd and the MPRB Fee Waiver program and include completing an application and providing additional documentation, including proof of residence.

Fee waivers are for the instructional portion of fees only and not for supplies, extra fees, or admission costs for field trips. The Scholarship FUNd covers all costs up to $300 per person, minus a $5 participation fee per activity. A Scholarship FUNd application must be completed every year. Scholarships FUNDs may be used for recreational programs and activities, lessons, youth sports, environmental and naturalist programs, and 9-hole golf. 

In addition to being included in the MPRB 2021/22 budget, the Scholarship FUNd is also funded through individual donations. When anyone registers for a program, they are given an opportunity to make a tax-deductible donation in any amount directly to the Scholarship FUNd. Individuals can also make a tax-deductible donation directly to the Scholarship FUNd at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/volunteer_and_give/

Additional information about the Scholarship FUNd, including guidelines on how to apply – and applications in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali - are available at https://www.minneapolisparks.org/activities__events/recreation_fee_assistance/. 

Inline Skating and Indoor Running Return to U.S. Bank Stadium for This Season's Winter Warm-Up

Via a November 30 e-announcement:

Public Inline Skating and Indoor Running Activities To Be Offered This December and January at U.S. Bank Stadium

Winter Warm-Up, a recreational program featuring inline skating and indoor running, returns to U.S. Bank Stadium this December. Thirteen Winter Warm-Up sessions will be offered this season beginning on Tuesday, December 14 and ending on Thursday, January 27. Winter Warm-Up is open to all ages and will take place on the stadium’s main and upper concourses from 5 – 9 pm on Tuesday and Thursday nights, with the exception of Thursday, December 23.

“We welcome the community back to U.S. Bank Stadium this December for the return of Winter Warm-Up,” says Michael Vekich, Chair of the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority. “We look forward to hosting affordable and accessible recreational activities for the public each year, including the beloved tradition of inline skating and indoor running at U.S. Bank Stadium.”

Tickets for U.S. Bank Stadium’s Winter Warm-Up will go on sale Tuesday, December 7 at 10 am and will be available online only at www.ticketmaster.com. Individual sessions are available for $12 per person. Inline skaters and indoor runners will be required to sign a waiver prior to participating in these events at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Inline skating is offered this year on the stadium’s main concourse. Open skating is offered from 5 – 8 pm with speed skating from 8 – 9 pm. Skaters will need to bring their own equipment to participate as skate rental will not be available. Skaters are required to bring their own safety gear, including helmets.

Indoor running is offered this year on the stadium’s upper concourse. Proper footwear is required for all participants. No strollers are allowed while running or while on the running course.

Updated information for U.S. Bank Stadium’s Winter Warm-up will be posted at www.usbankstadium.com.

LUSH Lounge & Theater to Reopen this December Under New Ownership

Newly Remodeled LUSH Lounge & Theater Reopens With Betty & Earl’s In The Kitchen 

After an extended closure, LUSH Lounge & Theater is set to reopen under new ownership before the end of the year. In addition to the ownership changes, the kitchen is getting a new tenant as well with Betty & Earl’s taking over kitchen operations creating a fun and casual bar menu. 

New decorThe ownership team includes Andrew Rausch and Jared Lawrence. Rausch brings twenty years in the hospitality industry and twelve years performing as Crystal Belle. Lawrence owns and manages multiple businesses and has performed on stage for the last thirteen years as Nikki Vixxen. The pair will oversee operations and programming of all entertainment.  

"I am so excited to see the revival of this bar that has changed lives and brought so many together. To be able to open our doors and welcome a community to experience top-notch entertainment in a truly premier space is a dream come true,” said Rausch. “As a previous employee, I am thrilled to share the growth of LUSH! We have been working hard to create a new atmosphere filled with new and exciting experiences for everyone and I can't wait to share it with the Twin Cities!" 

“As an entrepreneur where my businesses focus on the guest experience, I am excited to bring that perspective to the leadership team,” said Lawrence. “I look forward to welcoming guests into our warmer and inviting space filled with vibrant colors, artistic details and textures, paired with great food and drink.” 

Rausch and Lawrence have partnered with Jason Matheson of FOX 9 and myTalk 107.1 and Betty and Earl’s co-owner, Jennifer Lueck, to purchase LUSH and the 11,000 square-foot building located on Central Avenue in Northeast Minneapolis for $2.6 million.

Jason Matheson

“This project combines so many dreams of mine that I’m overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Matheson. “Not only do I own a restaurant centered around my papaw’s name and biscuits, but having that restaurant inside of a venue that I’m a co-owner of is beyond exciting. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I’m thrilled to work with great people like Andrew and Jared to create a space that not only reflects our community but invites everyone to a space where all are welcome.” 

The menu at LUSH will, of course, feature Betty & Earl’s signature biscuits in a variety of sandwiches and sweets alongside other offerings.  

“I’m so excited for the next phase for Betty & Earl’s,” said Lueck. “The new menu will go beyond biscuits for an entirely new experience for not only Betty & Earl’s, but LUSH as well. As a resident of Northeast for the last eighteen years, I’m excited for the opportunity to work and invest in my own community.” 

LUSH Lounge & Theater is located at 990 Central Avenue NE and will be open Wednesday-Sunday. To view a full calendar of entertainment, see menus and more, visit lushmpls.com and follow them on social media @lushmpls.