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.

Father Louis Hennepin: Man, Myth, Legend.

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

What is the story behind Father Louis Hennepin? It’s a name so common around here that we don’t think twice of it. There’s Father Hennepin Bluff Park, Hennepin Island, Hennepin Avenue, Father Louis Hennepin Bridge, and Hennepin County. He was the first non-Native American to set eyes on Owahmenah, “falling water” in Dakota, Kababikah, “severed rock” in Ojibwe, or St. Anthony Falls, but that’s just the middle of the story. Well here’s the beginning and the end.

A portrait of Hennepin from 1694.

Father Louis Hennepin was born in 1626 as Antoine Hennepin in Ath, Spanish Netherlands, what is now Belgium. Growing up he traveled around Europe as much as he could, and by the time he turned twenty, he joined the Récollets, also known as the Franciscan Order. During his time studying at a convent in Bethune, France he quickly became interested in stories of missionaries traversing the wilderness of undiscovered lands. In 1673, he was sent to Maastricht, Netherlands and became a military chaplain. A year later he was sent to the Battle of Seneffe, a part of the Franco-Dutch War, where he ran into Daniel Greysolon Dulhut, the namesake for Duluth. After the battle, he was ordered to make his way to La Rochelle, France where he would soon set sail for the New World.

For his first three years in Quebec, he would follow hunters and trappers to their camps and visit Native American settlements only bringing a portable altar, a blanket, and a mat made of rushes to sleep on. He took notes during all his journeys and would report back to French officials on his discoveries. During this time, he stumbled upon his first claim to fame, Niagara Falls, and he became the first non-Native American to document the falls. In 1678, a French explorer by the name of Robert Cavelier de La Salle made his way to Quebec with permission from King Louis XIV of France to explore the Mississippi River and the land that drains into it. Boarding a boat near Niagara Falls, the exploration party became the first non-Native Americans to navigate Lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan.

Once landing in Green Bay, the party traveled by canoe and foot, and by the time they reached Fort Crèvecoeur, near present-day Peoria, Illinois, the food supply was low and they were lacking the necessary materials for navigation, so many members of the party, including La Salle, deserted and decided to head back to Niagara in order to rethink their plan. Only three men remained; Father Hennepin, Michel Accault, and Antoine Auguel Du Guay. Following the Illinois River, they made their way to the Mississippi. Once the ice left the river, they made their way upstream, and in mid-April of 1680, they were greeted at Lake Pepin by thirty-three canoes paddled by 120 Dakota. The three men were then taken upstream to Kaposia where the elders decided what to do with them. They were then taken by foot to a village along the south shore of Mille Lacs where they stayed for two months.

Famous 1905 painting by Douglas Volk.

A hunting party from the village then took the men down the Rum River to the Mississippi and the Dakota agreed to let them paddle down to the Wisconsin River where they could pick up supplies. The three men paddled their way down and on July 6th, 1680, they approached a roaring waterfall Hennepin eventually named after his patron saint, St. Anthony of Padua. The men soon made their way to Prairie du Chien, where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers meet, and started the journey back upstream. With a canoe fully loaded with supplies, the three men struggled to paddle against the ripping current and were met by Daniel Greysolon Dulhut once again. Dulhut and Hennepin recognized each other from their previous meeting during the Battle of Seneffe. Dulhut’s party helped the three men back to Mille Lacs and over a month later, Dulhut negotiated with the Dakota chief to allow them to return home to Quebec. The men once again packed up their canoes and started paddling home, and on their way, Father Louis Hennepin set his eyes on what he called “the Niagara of the West” for the last time.

Statue of Hennepin located in front of the Basilica of Saint Mary.Once returning to Europe, he seemed to have made a few enemies, including King Louis XIV who said he would be arrested if he ever set foot in New France again. His eccentric personality and passion to become an explorer might have bolstered his ego a bit too much. He wrote three books about his travels and went into great detail in all of them. In his first book, he even slandered La Salle by saying, “Sieur de La Salle wanted all the glory and secret knowledge of this discovery for himself alone. This is why he sacrificed several persons to prevent them from publishing what they had seen and from foiling his secret plans.”

Paranoia and his need for being recognized for his discoveries took over Hennepin during his later years and passed away in Rome around the year 1705. Not much is known about his life other than what he wrote about in his books and what other explorers wrote about if they ever traveled with Hennepin. Some sources say he was born in 1626 and some say 1640. Some sources say he greatly exaggerated his discoveries in his books, and some say he returned to Quebec to a hero’s welcome. However, there’s one thing that’s for certain; Father Louis Hennepin will always be a legend in the Mill City.

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Click here for an interactive map of Michael's past articles.

Cynthia Froid Group Announces 2021 People Serving People Holiday Toy Drive

Thank you to Cynthia Froid Group for continuing their annual Holiday Toy Drive to spread holiday cheer to children and families supported by People Serving People’s shelter.

There are two ways to participate:  

• Order via these links to shop People Serving People’s wishlist on Target or Amazon.
• Drop toys off at their office, 709 S 2nd Street (across from the Mill City Museum) between November 29th and December 8th. 

Thank you to everyone for your generous spirits! 

Interstate 335: Lower Northeast’s Ghost Highway

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

The next time you take a stroll through James I. Rice Parkway on West River Road or watch the Fourth of July fireworks from Boom Island Park, imagine a six-lane highway right in front of you. The Twin Cites has a history of splitting communities in half, like with I-94 in St. Paul, and I-35W in South Minneapolis, but there was almost one more. This is the story of how a neighborhood was shaped by a project that was never built.

Map from 1975 of the plan for I-335

Interstate 335 was first proposed in the 1940’s to connect I-94, at Plymouth Avenue N, to I-35W, between East Hennepin Avenue and Broadway Street NE, which would complete a highway loop around Minneapolis. Since this “North Ring” section would go right through a big chunk of lower Northeast, it took a few decades for the Minnesota Department of Transportation to carefully choose the most fitting design for the area. In 1970, the project started to pick up steam when a federal highway bill granted money to the project to buy right-of-way land and prepare the route for construction. In fact, if you head southbound on I-35W, you can still see the beginnings of an on ramp as you approach the East Hennepin Avenue overpass.

Google Maps picture of I-35W near the East Hennepin Ave overpass showing an unused on-ramp

I-335 was planned to start at Plymouth Avenue N with its first on/off ramps at Washington Avenue N. It crossed the Mississippi River just south of the Plymouth Avenue bridge, curved its way through Boom Island and B.F. Nelson parks, and its first on/off ramps on the Northeast side would have been at Main Street, where Marshall Street breaks off, roughly where the Pioneer monument currently stands. I-335 would have then continued east, with on/off ramps at University Avenue NE and 4th Street NE. Its last on/off ramp before it that would have connected to I-35W was planned to be at Monroe Street NE.

It’s hard to comprehend a six-lane highway going right through my favorite riverfront park, but it was very close to happening. Understandably, the residents of the St. Anthony West neighborhood were not happy about a highway going through their backyard. Led by their president, Patrick Rainville, Sr., the grandfather of yours truly, the St. Anthony West neighborhood board fought tooth and nail to stop this project. This was a daunting task, as no neighborhood organization has ever shut down a federal government project. Well do I have good news for you! History was made on July 25, 1975 when the Minneapolis City Council listened to one of their oldest neighborhoods and passed a resolution opposing the I-335 project.

When the weather warms up and you find yourself at Boom Island Park, take a moment to look at the Minneapolis skyline, smell the wildflowers in the fields, wave hello to the canoers and kayakers, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Minneapolis riverfront. 

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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

Small Business Spotlight: Arlo Boutique

Article by Becky Fillinger

Ally DebiensThis Saturday will mark the 12th year of Small Business Saturday, a campaign with the aim of steering Black Friday and Cyber Monday shoppers toward small businesses. Looking for ideas? Here’s a new, local small business to consider – Arlo Boutique – which has its grand opening on Black Friday. We talked to owner Ally Debiens about her new venture and opening day specials. 

Q:  Please tell us about Arlo Boutique. Is this your first brick and mortar location?  

A:  Arlo Boutique is a reflection of my personal style; Arlo offers a mix of vintage + new items. Arlo is a destination for curated capsule wardrobes. We encourage mixing + matching with beloved pieces in your closet. After launching online in April of 2020, we found it was time for us to hit the streets and expand from our showroom to a brick-and-mortar location at 21 SE 4th Street (next to Verve Realty). We are proud to support other local woman owned artists + businesses - be sure you stop in and check a rotation of their work.  

Q:  Who is your customer?

A:  Our customer is you. No joke, we have goodies for anyone ages 18 to 80. We offer timeless, edgy + trendy clothes and accessories. You’ll fall in love with a new lounge set at the same time as picking up a dress for your next event. Gifts? We’ve got them.

Q:  Will you have any door-buster, Black Friday, opening day specials?

A:  Black Friday is our official grand opening celebration. Join us from 4-8pm for The Fab Tap champagne truck + Taco Taxi + Dj D-vice. We’ll give swag bags with purchases $250+. In addition, we are so thrilled to be raffling off over $1,000 in goods and services from local vendors + business. 

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  To stay in the know, follow us on Instagram or Facebook. It’s always fun to check us out online at www.shoparlo.com to see what’s new. You can sign up for weekly newsletters and be the first to know about events and deals.

50+ Minnesota Craft Breweries and Brewpubs to Participate in the First-ever Minnesota Pint Day, December 8

LIMITED-EDITION GLASSWARE WILL SUPPORT MN CRAFT BREWERIES & BREWPUBS

MN Pint Day pint glasses available at 50+ breweries and brewpubs starting December 8.

On December 8, more than 50 Minnesota craft breweries and brewpubs will celebrate Minnesota Pint Day through the sale of limited-edition MN Pint Day pint glasses. MN Pint Day was created this year by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, the state’s nonprofit association for craft breweries and brewpubs.

The day and special glassware are meant to help breweries draw customers and generate extra revenue on a typically slow day at the start of the quiet winter 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. The pint glass artwork pays homage to the variety of landscapes in Minnesota, according to the featured artist, Andrew Saur of Castle Danger Brewery. “From all corners of the state, we can come in together from the cold, raise a glass and say ‘Cheers!’ to Minnesota Pint Day!”

Per Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild's Interim Executive Director, Jessica Talley, “MN Pint Day gives craft beer fans a fun excuse to gather their friends, grab a few pints, and support their favorite breweries and brewpubs. When customers visit, purchase beer, or buy merchandise and gift cards over the holiday season, it really does have a huge impact for these small businesses, especially during the slower winter months.”

To see all participating breweries, details about their promotions, and glassware artwork, please visit: https://www.mncraftbrew.org/event/mnpintday/

Event Parkway Closures for November 27 Moustache Run

These street and parkway closures will take place Saturday, November 27, from 8:30am-1:30pm for the Moustache Run events:

• Main Street - 6th Avenue SE to Plymouth Ave
• West River Parkway - Plymouth Avenue to E 38th Street
• Stone Arch Bridge

Click the "Read More" button below to view and read additional information on the event.

The Northrup King Building Special Holiday Newsletter

Via a November 23 e-newsletter:

With Holiday Saturdays, Small Business Saturday and First Thursday, shopping for unique and locally-made gifts has never been easier! You're invited to join the Northrup King Building community on or before First Thursday (December 2) to enter the Northrup King Holiday Contest, with a chance to win two tickets to the Van Gogh Immersive! No purchase necessary!

The Northrup King Holiday Contest

This holiday season we're increasing the joy with a chance to win some special prizes for Art Lovers! Enter our Northrup King Holiday Contest for your chance to win!

• 1st Prize: A pair of tickets to our neighbor, Immersive Van Gogh! 
• 2nd Prize: 3 lucky art lovers will win $100 in "Art Bucks" to spend at the Northrup King Building on gifts for the family, or a special treasure for your very own!
• 3rd Prize: 5 lucky art lovers will win $50 in "Art Bucks" to spend at the Northrup King Building!

To enter, visit the Northrup King Building during Small Business Saturday on November 27th or during First Thursday on December 2nd and browse our open studios to find a QR code to enter! 

Make the trek to the upper floors to find unique entry codes to scan. Each floor visited increases your chances to enter. Four Floors = Four chances to enter!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Entries are limited to one entry per floor visited. The drawing will be held the Friday after our Dec 2nd First Thursday Event. Participants do not need to be present to claim their prize.

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Holiday Contest Open Studio events:

Small Business Saturday | Nov 27 | 10am - 6pm

First Thursday | Dec 2 | 5pm to 9pm

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Small Business Saturday, November 27

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In a year where supporting small businesses means more than ever to our communities, make Small Business Saturday your day to get out and shop local!

We've extended our Small Business Saturday Hours to give you as much time as you need to browse hundreds of unique and creative works from local artists and creators and take care of all your holiday gift needs.

Saturday, November 27th, 10:00 AM- 6:00 PM

Can't make it in? Many of our artists have online shopping availability, too! Check our website and browse studios from the comfort of your own home.

First Thursday, December 2nd

It's our last First Thursday of the year! First Thursdays are a great night to visit the artists and discuss the process and inspiration behind the incredible art, and take home your one of a kind treasure. With Four Enormous Floors to explore, this history filled building is truly a Twin Cities iconic destination.

Thursday, December 2nd, 5:00 - 9:00 PM

Plenty of Free Parking, Passenger Elevator, and Comfortable Spaces.

Holiday Saturdays - Every Saturday!

Holiday Saturdays are back at the Northrup King Building! Browse hundreds of unique and creative works and gifts from local artists and creators under one roof and rest easy with the knowledge that when you buy local, you never have to worry about shipping delays! It's a great year to support Minnesota artists and creative businesses.

Saturdays in November and December (through December 18th), Noon to 4:00 PM 

Are you an early bird when it comes to holiday shopping? Select studios will open their doors at 10am on Holiday Saturdays, and offer a special holiday treat for those ready to get an early jump on their holiday shopping! Look for the "Holiday Lane" signs on participating studios.

Nonprofit Spotlight: Newgate School

Article by Becky Fillinger

Blythe SeversonHave you heard of Newgate School? I recently learned of this a marvelous nonprofit which trains young adults for careers in the automotive industry. We spoke to Blythe Severson, Executive Director, about the origins of the school and the many levels of generosity they provide to the community.

Q:  Please tell us the history and mission of the Newgate School.

A:  Newgate School was founded in 1975 as a nonprofit, tuition-free automotive training facility for underserved young adults in the Twin Cities. Many of our students could not afford post-secondary training or were not successful in traditional classroom style settings. They were struggling to find good paying jobs to support themselves and their families. Students who enroll at Newgate learn through hands-on training on donated vehicles. The students learn auto body and collision repair and general auto mechanics from highly professional and experienced instructors. Within 12 to 18 months, they graduate and join the automotive workforce, earning a good wage and are on their way to a successful and satisfying career.

Q:  How do car donations help the school and the donor?

A:  Newgate depends almost entirely on vehicle donations from the community. People really appreciate the program because it's such a win-win for everyone. Donors provide us with their vehicles and receive a tax deduction on that year's tax return. Students get vehicles they can work on to learn the skills they need to become entry level automotive technicians. The vehicles can get a second life as Newgate sells the repaired and refurbished cars at a local dealer auction and 100% of the proceeds are used at the school to run its operations. Even those vehicles we can't use in training are sold or used for parts so every car donation benefits the school. The local community wins because our students are on their way to better paying jobs that allow them economic independence. The best cars for our students are 15 years old or newer with minimal rust, but we take pretty much any vehicle because they all help the school in one way or another. We love any mechanical or body issue since that's what we need to teach our students. Even cars with blown engines work for us!

Q:  How many students have graduated from your programs? Do you have information on where they’ve found employment?

A:  Newgate trains up to 28 students at a time in our programs. The training works because it's geared specifically to each individual student. Some students who have experience working on cars with their family members may only take 10 months to graduate. Others with English as a second language or with little to no experience working on cars may take 15 months to graduate. Newgate meets them where they are and as long as they have a genuine desire for an automotive career and are committed to the training, our job is to get them through the curriculum and ready for employment on graduation.

Our average placement rate ranges between 95%-100%. We partner with dealerships, national brands and local, individually-owned shops to match our students’ skills and aspirations with companies and environments that will continue to support their success. Newgate's reputation in the local industry is well-known and shops seek out and appreciate our graduates. We set up our training to run like a real shop, and students can work on as many as 50 projects during training, which is invaluable "on-the-job" training that many other automotive programs can't match. The ability to provide that kind of training is completely due to the community donations we gratefully receive.

Q:  Please tell us about the Wheels for Women program.

A:  Newgate's founder started the Wheels program in the mid-90's. Through working in the industry, he became aware of the significant number of young moms struggling to meet the needs of their children in part because they had no access to reliable transportation. Imagine raising your family, working full-time, bringing kids to daycare, managing errands, school activities and health appointments without a vehicle. So Newgate students began repairing 1-2 cars per month to give to single moms who are working or going to school full-time. There are some pretty strict requirements for which cars are selected for the program, and they must pass a rigorous maintenance check. Students get the satisfaction of paying it forward and the school has now provided close to 800 vehicles for single, working moms. We know that the program makes an incredible difference in their lives. Kids make it to school on a regular basis and are able to participate in sports and other activities, moms can keep a job because they can get there reliably each day and no longer have to depend on friends or family to get groceries or keep appointments. Some moms are even able to plan for additional schooling for themselves, all because they have reliable transportation.

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  You can find Newgate on our website, on Facebook, Instagram and nextdoor.

We welcome Mill City Times readers to come for a tour. Drop by 2900 Hennepin Avenue E or call 612-378-0177.

Early Chinese Immigrants in Minneapolis

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

Wedding portrait of Liang May Seen and Woo Yee Sing, 18931893 wedding portrait of Liang May Seen and Woo Yee SingImmigrants from China first arrived in North America before the United States became a nation, working as sailors and merchants on Spanish galleons, sailing between Mexico and the Philippines. The United States acquired much of Mexico’s northern territory in 1848 with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, ending the Mexican – American War. By this time, many small communities of Chinese immigrants in California were already established, and that number only grew during the next few decades as many came to America to test their luck during the California gold rush and to help complete the first transcontinental railroad.

One of the first Chinese men to start a new life in Minneapolis was Woo Yee Sing who first arrived in San Francisco in the early 1880s at the age of eighteen. Soon after in 1882, the U.S. passed the Chinese Exclusion Act which restricted Chinese immigration to America and led to further segregation of Chinese Americans within the communities they have called home for decades. Woo Yee Sing came to Minneapolis in order to escape persecution on the west coast and operated a laundromat. In 1883, he started the first Chinese restaurant in Minneapolis with his brother Woo Du Sing known as the Canton Café. Woo Yee Sing returned to San Francisco in 1892 with the goal of finding a bride, and that’s when he met Liang May Seen who arrived in San Francisco in 1885 at the age of fourteen. Liang May Seen’s parents were approached by a man who said if she went to America, she would be marrying a wealthy Chinese American businessman. However, he sold her to a brothel as soon as they arrived in San Francisco.

Honeymoon portrait of the couple taken in 1893.

Liang May Seen escaped the brothel in 1889 and was taken in by the Presbyterian Mission Home in San Francisco where she became fluent in English and also took classes in housekeeping and mathematics. Once Liang May Seen and Woo Yee Sing were introduced to each other, they married and headed to Minneapolis making Liang May Seen the first Chinese women to call Minnesota home.

Because of Liang May Seen’s excellent grasp of the English language, she quickly made friends in Minneapolis, opening a curio shop in 1904. During her time at the Presbyterian Mission Home in San Francisco, she converted to Christianity, and in Minneapolis, she continued to participate in the faith. She joined the Women's Foreign Missionary Society where she met suffragist Mabeth Hurd Paige who was one of the first four women to be elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives. Liang May Seen and her husband also joined the Westminster Presbyterian Church, located on Marquette Avenue and South Twelfth Street. The church had a Chinese Sunday School that helped many Chinese immigrants get acquainted with Minneapolis society.

Cantonese sign for their restaurant reading "Yuen Faung Low," made in 1913.

Portrait of Liang with son Howard taken in 1910.In 1906 Liang May Seen and her husband Woo Yee Sing adopted a Chinese boy from San Francisco named Howard and continued to help and strengthen the local Chinese community. This took a lot of resilience and patience, because the persecution of Chinese Americans was only getting worse as the years went on. Their restaurant, the Canton Café, soon changed their name to Yuen Faung Low, colloquially known as John’s Place and was known as a place where anyone could go to enjoy a meal, regardless of race. In an interview in the Minneapolis Journal, the reporter observed this diversity with Woo Yee Sing responding, “They are men like you or me. They have got to eat and there must be some place for them to do so…They are all brothers, and there is no room for race prejudice.” Unfortunately, their restaurant, which was located at 28 South Sixth Street, was the target of a bombing in 1912.

Nonetheless, Liang May Seen and Woo Yee Sing continued to help Chinese immigrants, teaching English and helping families settle into their new home of Minneapolis. Minnie Wong was one of these immigrants. She came here from the Kaiping District of the Guangdong Province in China; the same area Liang May Seen grew up. Together, they taught the first English classes Westminster offered for Chinese women.

John's Place interior, 1963

John's Place menu from 1960In 1916, John’s Place expanded up. They opened a tearoom on the second floor in order to be more appealing to their patrons that wanted a more elegant setting. The restaurant continued to find success and eventually closed in the 1960s. Woo Yee Sing passed away in 1925 with over 700 mourners attending the funeral, and Liang May Seen passed away in 1946, leaving behind a legacy to be proud of to say the least.

Being a non-European immigrant in the U.S. was, and still is, a challenge, and the early Chinese immigrants who settled in Minneapolis never let racism and prejudice overcome them. From teaching English and starting their own businesses to building a successful Chinese American community, Liang May Seen and Woo Yee Sing were model citizens and have made a lasting mark in this melting pot of a city we all call home.

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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

2021 Holidazzle Events and Loring Park Schedule

The 2021 Holidazzle returns to in-person with food, beverages, shopping, entertainment and fun in Loring Park on December 17-19, plus other events. Thank you to the mpls downtown council for continueing this tradition.

2021 Holidazzle Schedule:

Nov. 26 – Dec. 3: Holidazzle Yeti at Peavey Plaza

Dec. 4: Santa Zoom virtual calls

Dec. 11: Santa Zoom virtual calls

Dec. 17-19: Holidazzle in Loring Park

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Holidazzle in Loring Park hours:

Friday, December 17 from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday, December 18 from 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Sunday, December 19 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update, Nov. 19

Via a November 19 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

Nicollet Mall

• Crews are setting up equipment and materials and will beginning drilling the well 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 Avenue

• Crews continue setting up equipment and materials to install the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection. Drilling and excavation of the new access shaft will begin the week of November 29 and work is estimated to take two months to complete.
  • The sidewalks will 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 Avenue 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 Avenue

• The east lane of 4th Ave S between 3rd St S and Washington Ave remains closed near the Washington Ave intersection. This is necessary to complete setting up the dewatering well and pumps. This work is anticipated to be completed in early 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 Avenue

• The west lane of Portland Ave remains closed between 3rd St S and Washington Ave. This closure is needed to complete installation of the temporary dewatering well and pump setup on the southwest corner of the intersection. Work is anticipated to be completed in early December. 
  • During this closure, bicyclists will 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 will begin removing the top five feet of 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, remains 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.
• 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 will be utilizing an existing shaft to perform work for connecting the existing tunnel to the new tunnel.
  • During this closure, pedestrians will 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

New Mill District Signage

Submitted by Mill District resident Doug Verdier 

The Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA) has been installing signage and historical plaques throughout the Historic Mill District recently. Below are some samples of the informative installations. Thank you DMNA for this addition to the Historic Mill District.

4th Street Reconstruction Update

Via an e-update from the City of Minneapolis:

The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave N and 4th Ave S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete in 2022. Phase 1 includes construction from Hennepin Ave to 4th Ave S and Phase 2 includes construction from 2nd Ave N to Hennepin Ave. Phase 1 occurred during 2021 and Phase 2 will begin in 2022.

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Latest Project News

• Phase 1 work, between Hennepin Ave and 4th Ave S, is substantially complete and 4th Street is now open to through traffic. The Washington Ave detour is no longer in effect.
• Remaining work this year includes completion of the traffic signal and lighting installations, anticipated to occur in December 2021.
• Xcel Energy will continue work between 2nd Ave N and Hennepin Ave through the winter which may result in periodic lane closures.
• Phase 2 construction, between 2nd Ave N and Hennepin Ave, will begin in spring of 2022. Construction crews plan to begin work as soon as possible depending on the weather and plan to be complete by mid-summer.
• There will be no further project newsletters or stakeholder meetings in 2021. Newsletters and stakeholder meetings will begin again in 2022, prior to the start of construction. Stay tuned!
• The project hotline and email address will remain active through the duration of the project.

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Stay Connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website and sign-up for updates: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/

Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction

Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774

Eclipse in the Clouds by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Mill District resident Ric Rosow

This photograph was taken at 5:45 a.m. on November 19th as the moon was in the final stages of its partial eclipse. The weather forecast was correct. Skies were clear at the start of the eclipse. Then several hours in clouds began to form. In the later portions of the eclipse event, clouds totally obscured the moon and then as in the photo, would open up momentarily for an interesting view. I set the camera to take a photograph every 20 seconds. As the eclipse progressed I changed exposure to account for the moon turning darker as more and more of it passed into the shadow of the earth. Four times I shut the camera off to change the battery. I felt like I was back in college studying for an exam, pulling an all-nighter photographing from midnight to 6:22 a.m.

The next lunar eclipse is a total eclipse on May 15, 2022. I hope to see and photograph that one as well. See more of my work @ricrosowphotography @treslechesartgallery @Nemaa.

Mr. Pettingill’s Wonderful Water

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

1875 - Chalybeate Springs near Pillsbury A MillIn 1875, the Minneapolis Riverfront welcomed its first, and last, resort. Mr. Mannesseh P. Pettingill reached an agreement with the St. Anthony Falls Company to lease a portion of their land, where he would start a spring-fed resort and tourist attraction. This was not the first time people would visit the springs, as they have been a popular spot to unwind since pioneers settled in the area. However, during the Civil War, the springs fell out of popularity.

The visitors of Mr. Pettinghill’s resort descended a steep flight of stairs, which were located in present day Father Hennepin Bluff Park. At the base of the bluff, they were able to enjoy ice cream, cigars, great views of St. Anthony Falls, and relaxing natural springs, which he marketed it as his Wonderful Water. One of the main attractions of the resort was a cavern, advertised as “Chute’s Cave.” An August 1876 issue of the Minneapolis Tribune says that visitors were able to take a tour of the cavern. “For the moderate sum of ten cents you can take a seat in a boat, with a flaming torch at the bow, and with a trusty pilot sail up under Main Street a distance of 2,000 feet.” If you were not the adventurous type, they also provided live music along the banks of the Mississippi every Saturday, such as the East Minneapolis Cornet Band on the evening of August 26th. Mr. Pettingill eventually constructed a covered dancefloor as a “rendezvous for lovers of dancing, where they can trip the light fantastic whenever occasion admits.”

1875 - Chalybeate Springs near Pillsbury A Mill

The growth of the city eventually made it hard for Mr. Pettingill to continue to run his resort, and in Autumn of 1880, it closed for good. Everything that could have went wrong happened all at once. Milling continued to grow at a rapid pace, which chased away many visitors of the resort because of the noise pollution, it was discovered that the source of Mr. Pettingill’s Wonderful Water was a swamp, and to top it all off, the city connected its sewers to the tailraces of the mills that emptied into the river right next to the resort.

Lower Father Hennepin Bluff Park

Fortunately for us, that area has cleaned up quite nicely. If you want to check out the springs, wait until the snow melts and the river thaws, and wander down the trails of the lower section of Father Hennepin Bluff Park and rediscover the beauty that attracted many residences of the Twin Cities and beyond to Mr. Pettengill’s resort.

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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

Out of the Box Opera Presents Holiday Tenor Extravaganza at Canopy, Dec.16-18

Out of the Box Opera will present Holiday Tenor Extravaganza on December 16, 17 and 18 (performances at 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30) as the final installment in its 2021 series at the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis. The evening will offer a mix of opera, pop and traditional holiday music sung by a trio of tenors moving in and around the hotel’s restaurant and lounge.

Out of the Box Artistic Director David Lefkowich stated, “We think of what we do not as shows in the conventional sense but as musical adventures that include the audience as part of the performance.” In the case of the Holiday Tenor Extravaganza, individual singers will stop and engage with hotel diners and guests sitting at their tables or mingling in the lounge. The cast will also perform together as a group of strolling carolers. The repertoire will be equal parts traditional carols, popular holiday songs and opera arias in keeping with the spirit of the season. Lefkowich says that in putting together the program, he asked the singers to choose some of their own favorite pieces. “We think this will give the evening a sense of authenticity and intimacy, knowing that these men are singing music that recalls their own holiday memories.”

Musical Director and accompanist Carson Rose Schneider added, “We have chosen three dynamic singers to fill out our version of The Three Tenors. They have broad and varied backgrounds which fit perfectly with the range of music we are featuring in this event.” David Walton performed in the first Canopy show, A Night at The Opera/A Night on The Town, and with Out of The Box in 2019’s Acis and Galatea The Wonder Nymph. Walton has appeared locally with Minnesota Opera and Minnesota Bach Ensemble and nationally with Virginia Opera, Opera Carolina and Glimmerglass Festival. Brian Wallin performed earlier this year in Hello Italy at the Canopy and was in the cast of Out of The Box’s very first show, Love Lost/Love Found at the Weisman Art Museum in 2017. Walin has also performed with Minnesota Opera, Glimmerglass Festival, Atlanta Opera, and Opera National de Bordeaux. This is Eric Morris’ first performance with Out of The Box, but he has appeared locally as a performer with the Guthrie Theater, Theatre Latte Da, Mill City Summer Opera and Chanhassen Dinner Theatre and has directed shows at the Old Log Theater. Outside the Twin Cities, Morris has directed and performed with Dayton Opera and Michigan’s Barn Theater.

Umbra’s award-winning Executive Chef, Kevin Aho, has crafted a special menu offering exclusively for the three nights of Holiday Tenor Extravaganza performances. This Winter Feast includes a salad, 16oz Prime Rib, truffle mashed potatoes, seasoned vegetables and hazelnut tart. Visit their website to see the most up-to-date menu and reserve your table.

The show is a non-ticketed event. A dinner reservation at Canopy’s restaurant, Umbra, will guarantee reserved seating, but the show can also be seen and heard from the hotel’s lounge and lobby (and even from balconies in the hotel’s atrium if you have a room).

Thanksgiving Stock Up at the Nov. 20 Mill City Farmers Market

Vikings & Goddesses pumpkin pie

This Saturday, November 20, be sure to visit the Mill City Farmers Market inside the Mill City Museum to stock up on Thanksgiving staples! Here's the list of vendors who look forward to seeing you. (Pre-orders aren't required, but will save you time.) Masks required.

Looking for a traditional pumpkin pie? You can pre-order one from Vikings & Goddesses, or you can make your own using one of their pre-made frozen crusts. Want to make your own crust? Check out this instructional video. They use flour from Baker’s Field Flour & Bread, who you'll also find at the MCFM.

Stock up on: 

• Root veggies (potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, shallots, garlic, carrots)
• Winter squash, lettuces, spinach, arugula, celery, herbs, mushrooms and more local vegetables
• Fresh rolls and Thanksgiving pies
• High quality meat, cheeses and eggs
• Maple syrup, fermented foods, artisan sauces
• Beeswax candles, dried floral wreaths
• Handmade wooden utensils, tea towels and soaps

Don't forget to check out the Mill City Museum's gift shop while you're there! 

Small Business Spotlight(s): The Dayton’s Project

Article and photos by Becky Fillinger

The media was treated to a preview of The Dayton’s Project on Monday, November 15. Oh, how fabulous it was to once again step foot inside the cultural heart of downtown Minneapolis! Brian Whiting, President and Founder of the Telos Group, addressed the crowd and acknowledged that we Minnesotans love our state and are proud of and loyal to our landmarks – Dayton’s being a prime example. “For over five generations, Dayton’s was the heart of culture, shopping, and entertainment. At Telos Group we understood its historical and cultural significance to the city of Minneapolis, and we kept those ideas in mind for every step of the renovation.”

There were gasps of delight at the renovations – there are design surprises throughout the building - but also much reminiscing.

R.T. Rybak

Former Mayor R.T. Rybak offered his memories. “I met my wife when I was a reporter covering commercial real estate and she was doing PR at Dayton’s. Over the years, coming to have breakfast with Santa and then bringing our children to have breakfast with Santa – so many different memories in this building. I work across the street, and I’ve looked over and seen it empty for a long time. I can’t describe how exciting it is to see life in this building again. To be standing on this incredible outdoor plaza looking at the IDS and the skyline, I can see wonderful things for this building. I have to hand it to the developers and investors who persevered, and to the entrepreneurs and makers – they are going to give us such needed vibrancy.”

The merchandise available by the 35 Minnesota makers is diverse and delightful. That’s because Dayton’s has the services of the wonderful Mich Berthiaume. As curator of the project, Mich meticulously hand selects every brand. “It was a long process. I went to pow wows, I went to church basements, bazaars, the Cannon River art festival, the Hudson art festival, and many other events. I want Mill City Times readers to know that we are open for business with these local makers and entrepreneurs. These brands are all made here in the Twin Cities. There were no applications – I hand selected the brands you’ll see here.”

From left to right - Wendy Pilot, Robert Pilot, Nolan Berglund, Latessa Two Bulls of Native Roots Trading Post

Robert Pilot is the curator of Native products at his Native Roots Trading Post. “I have goods from Minnesota but also all of Turtle Island (North America). We're a busy conduit for the Native community. We give them the opportunity to accentuate and amplify their goods and reach. For example, a White Earth maker of a beautifully beaded $200 piece may not have an avenue to sell her product. She may reluctantly sell it locally for $15 to buy diapers. I open up a much wider market for the Native makers to reach the mainstream market. Our Native Roots Radio AM 750 reaches 200,000 people every day. I can bring Native artists and leaders together from all over the country.

Olivia Kor

Olivia Kor of LiveForLivArtwork offers beautiful mixed media pieces focusing on resin, pigments and crystals.  She focused on her pieces during quarantine and the social media interest exploded. Olivia says, “Photos do not do my artwork justice. Instagram is beautiful but when you see the artwork in person, you can really appreciate the glossy shine of the resin and the beauty of the geodes.” Olivia’s artwork is priced from $25 coasters to wall minis ($140) to full wall masterpieces. There’s something of beauty for everyone here. My words do not do justice to her designs either – just go to Dayton’s for a look. Follow her designs on Facebook and Instagram.   

I could expound on every vendor, but you’d soon get tired of reading. Just get yourself over to The Dayton’s Project at 700 Nicollet! Their holiday windows unveiling takes place at 10:30a on Thursday, November 18. Hours going forward are 10a-6p, Monday through Saturday, and Noon to 5p Sundays.