2024 Budget Update from Mayor Frey

Update on the 2024 Budget

On August 15, I delivered my 2024 recommended budget to the City Council. The proposal features a continued commitment to affordable housing, historic investments in long-term, sustainable climate action, and funding for the federal consent decree, inclusive economic recovery work, and park and public waters improvements.

The proposed 2024 budget totals $1.8 billion, with a tax levy increase of 6.2% – which is the exact levy increase I promised last year, no higher.

Since then, the City Council has been working on amendments to my proposed budget – as is done each year through the regular budget process. Tomorrow, Council will begin budget "mark-up" and on Tuesday, December 5, the Council is slated to take its final vote on the budget. Once it is passed through Council, it comes to my desk for final approval.

Impacts the Council Budget Amendments will have on City Services

This morning, the administration sent the City Council a memo outlining the impacts of the various budget amendments the Council has submitted. This information is directly from the departments themselves that will be impacted by these amendments. We have to listen to our staff, they are the experts in their field.

As a follow-up to my administration's memo, I sent the City Council a letter this evening outlining my grave concerns with a few budget amendments.

The full text of my letter to the City Council is below: 

Council President Jenkins, Council Vice President Palmisano, and Council Members: 

Thank you for your collaboration so far this budget cycle. I look forward to continuing to work together towards a budget that supports the services we provide to Minneapolis residents.  

The collaboration started earlier this year with invitations to all Council Members to provide their budget priorities for consideration in my proposed budget. As you heard during my budget address in August, those requests were in large part included – and remain in my proposed budget today. 

We did this out of a sincere desire to work with you in a collaborative process, to provide for our constituents. I want to thank you for your willingness to engage, both then and now. 

This morning, you received a memo from the administration outlining the impact of some of your proposed budget amendments. Staff worked diligently yesterday to review the amendment packet and provide this timely memo so you have important and relevant context moving into mark-up on Thursday. This context is directly from the departments themselves that would be impacted by these amendments. They are the experts in their field, they know what is needed to do their work, and we should listen to their advice and recommendations.

I hope you make time to review the memo document. If you have any questions, I know both interim COO Johnston and Commissioner Barnette have offered to make themselves available.

I’ve been reviewing the 48 proposed budget amendments, too. There are amendments I agree with, some I can live with, and others that I am adamantly opposed to. This letter is meant to highlight the amendments I have grave concerns about as they will limit our ability to provide the level of service our residents need, and that Council has committed to provide. 

Cuts to HR FTEs dedicated to enterprise-wide recruitment and retention efforts   

First, we need to invest in our City workforce. More often than not, significant backlogs occur across the enterprise because Human Resources (HR) is under-resourced and overworked. I understand that HR staffing is not the most exciting proposal, but our whole enterprise depends on them to run smoothly.  

I proposed adding 8 FTEs to HR (4 of which are being made permanent following ARPA funding) to build capacity within the department to support the recruitment and hiring of new employees and to help with retention efforts. There are several amendments that would dismantle these HR FTEs and move them elsewhere.  

I do not support moving these FTEs out of HR. Why? Because that means positions will not get filled quickly, work will be delayed, and important projects we all support will fall short. Moreover, new employee orientations will be scaled back, support for all employee benefits and open enrollment will be greatly reduced, and the Talent Acquisition team will cancel 2024 recruiting events scheduled in underrepresented communities... just to name a few. 

We have to double down on our investment in the City enterprise and that means investing in our incredible staff through the HR department. 

Cuts to the Public Works snow storage site   

We live in Minnesota. We get a lot of snow during the winter... and we need a place to put it. Our residents deserve streets and parkways that are plowed and completely cleared of snow. This is a basic, bread-and-butter City service that we need to provide.  

The proposed $1 million investment in an improved snow storage site is crucial to allow for a place to dump the cleared snow. And allowing the snow to run off in the river is bad for the river. The amendments that eliminate the budget for this site would hamper the City’s ability to haul the snow and properly dispose of it. 

Cuts to PMI FTEs planned to advance Safe and Thriving Communities Report   

We need to implement the recommendations coming out of the Minneapolis Safe and Thriving Communities Report. I know these recommendations are supported by both my administration and the Council. To help guide this safety beyond policing work, we proposed maintaining the staffing level in the Performance Management & Innovation Department (9 FTEs). The proposed amendments reduce the department by more than 50% and undermine the work we need them to do.  

These cuts would mean significantly reduced capacity to lead and support the Minneapolis Safe and Thriving Communities Report implementation. There would be reduced capacity to drive on other innovation projects, to support the research and best practice identification of community-based safety center programming, to integrate performance management with the budgeting process, and elected officials and departments will not have the support they need from PMI to make data-driven and evidence-based decisions that advance City goals.  

All of this means that improving the delivery of City services to enhance residents’ quality of life and eliminate racial disparities will be impacted. We don’t want that, and our residents don’t want that. 

This would be the third time the current Council’s position has changed on these PMI FTEs. In 2022, upon request from a Council Member, we moved the PMI positions to the legislative branch in our proposed budget. The City Council then changed directions to move the PMI positions back to the administration and advocated for the creation of an independent department – to which we agreed.  

Now, these amendments would move the positions... yet again. Importantly, since the Council made the decision to move the PMI FTEs back to the administration and create a standalone department, we have been building out a team integrated into our implementation plan for the Safe & Thriving Communities Report. This back and forth, and back again, makes it nearly impossible for staff to plan effectively, and even harder to deliver on objectives that we all want.  

Use of $19 million one-time public safety aid   

I understand this Council has rejected the proposal to use the one-time, State money for police officer incentives. As I’ve stated, I disagree. But if this money is to be used for a different purpose, I strongly suggest that you get buy-in from the people charged with implementing the work. Promising new pilots from the Council dais without input from our expert staff could result in empty promises. 

We have already jointly promised to move forward with the Safe and Thriving Communities Report recommendations. Let’s deliver on this promise, together, and devote monies to implement these recommendations rather than creating new programs with one-time dollars, that have neither been studied nor vetted by staff.   

As the City’s leading subject matter experts have already relayed to you, the proposed amendments above pose grave governing concerns. 

I want to clearly tell you now: these amendments will negatively impact our ability to provide service to our constituents and deliver on the promises we have made.   

I ask you to consider the impacts listed out in the memo and go into mark-up on Thursday with an open mind for finding areas where we can compromise. This will require both the executive and the legislative bodies to find common ground. I know we can do it.  

Yours truly,

Jacob Frey

What’s Happening Downtown Nov 30 – Dec 6

The mpls downtown council can help you plan your next visit during the holidays and beyond. Check out mdc’s holiday guide at mplsdowntown.com/guides_activities/celebrate-the-season-in-mpls-downtown/, and the events calendar at mplsdowntown.com/events. 

Takeaways This Weekend

Join the Twin Cities Skaters during City Skate. This free roller skating event features music, games, food, and more!

Great live holiday shows continue including the “Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet” at Orpheum Theatre this weekend, “A Christmas Carol” at the Guthrie, “The New Standards Holiday Show” at State Theatre, and so many more. Also, the opening night of Disney's “Aladdin” Broadway show is on Tuesday!

Don’t forget about Holidays on Nicollet! There are pop-up shops featuring nearly 70 locally owned small businesses, plus 10 window displays along Nicollet, featuring holiday designs created by local artists. The Holidays on Nicollet experience runs every weekend through January 5.

There’s also holiday music being played at the IDS Center, U.S. Bank Plaza, and Capella Tower throughout the week. Scroll down to the “Weekly Happenings” section for more information.

Don’t Miss

City Skate – Thursday | City Center (6 – 8 p.m. Family Skate | 8 – 10 p.m. Adults). Free first-come, first-served roller skates or bring your own.  

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet – Thursday, Friday, Saturday | Orpheum Theatre 

The New Standards Holiday Show – Friday | State Theatre 

Pert Near Sandstone – Saturday | First Avenue  

Brunch with Santa at Mara – Sunday | Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis 

Pierce the Veil – Sunday | The Armory 

Travis Anderson Trio’s “Charlie Brown Christmas” – Monday | Dakota

Aladdin – Tuesday | Orpheum Theatre 

2nd Annual Tree Lighting at Nordic Plaza – Wednesday | Nordic Plaza 

Thursday, November 30 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

City Skate | 6 - 10 p.m. – City Center 

The Cactus Blossoms | 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota 

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet | 7 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

Timberwolves vs. Jazz | 7 p.m. – Target Center 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre 

Luke Grimes | 8 p.m. – First Avenue 

Friday, December 1 

Cultural Collisions | 4 p.m. – Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis 

Meshuggah with Special Guests | 6 p.m. – The Fillmore 

Gunhild Carling | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet | 7 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

A Christmas Carol | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre 

The New Standards Holiday Show | 8 p.m. – State Theatre 

Gimme Gimme Disco | 9 p.m. – First Avenue 

Slander | 9:30 p.m. – The Armory  

Saturday, December 2 

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet | 1 & 5 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theater 

The New Standards Holiday Show | 4 & 8 p.m. – State Theatre 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 4:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre 

Oleta Adams | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

Pert Near Sandstone | 7 p.m. – First Avenue 

Slander | 9:30 p.m. – The Armory

Sunday, December 3

Brunch with Santa at Mara | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis 

Holiday Tea at Brit’s Pub | 12 - 4 p.m. – Brit’s Pub 

Minnesota Cookie Creations | 1 p.m. – Mill City Museum 

Pierce The Veil | 6:30 p.m. – The Armory 

T. Mychael Rambo & the Dakota Present: Hands & Hearts for the Arts | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

Monday, December 4

August Burns Red | 5:30 p.m. – The Fillmore 

Travis Anderson Trio’s “Charlie Brown Christmas” | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

Tuesday, December 5 

A Christmas Carol | 1 p.m. – Guthrie Theater

Jake Shimabukuro – Holidays in Hawai’i | 7 p.m. – Dakota

Aladdin (Opening Night) | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

Wednesday, December 6

2nd Annual Tree Lighting at Nordic Plaza | 5:30 p.m. – Nordic Plaza 

Nicolas David’s 10th Annual St. Nick’s Day Show | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

Aladdin | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

All I Want for Christmas Is You…to Elf Off | 7:30 p.m. – Dudley Riggs Theatre

Weekly Happenings

Winter Maker’s Market | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. – The Dayton’s Project (Daily) 

Holiday Music at Capella Tower | 7 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 4 p.m. – Capella Tower (Monday – Friday)

Holiday Under Glass Concert Series | 12 – 1 p.m. – IDS Center Crystal Court (Tuesdays – Thursdays)
 
Live Holiday Music | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – U.S. Bank Plaza (Tuesdays – Thursdays)
 
Farmer’s Market | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Lyndale Avenue (Saturdays and Sundays)
 
Nordic Village Market | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis (Saturdays and Sundays)
 
Handmade Holiday Market | 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Lakes & Legends Brewing Company (Saturdays and Sundays) 

Cuddle a Puppy This Wednesday, 11/29, at the Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center

Get ready to cuddle up with cuteness at the Meet Minneapolis Puppy Cuddle on Wednesday, November 29, 11:30am to 1:00pm, at the Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center - enjoy snuggle time with a plethora of cute puppies. A $5 donation is suggested to support Healing Hearts Rescue. Cash, credit and Venmo accepted, and 100% of donations will go to Healing Hearts Rescue

Healing Hearts Rescue is a volunteer-based nonprofit dog rescue dedicated to changing the lives of animals whom humans have failed by finding them safe and loving homes.

The Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center is located at 505 Nicollet Mall, Suite 100, directly across from the Nicollet light rail station.

Minnesota Historical Society Double Discount Days, December 8-10

Mill City Museum is one of nine store sites, plus online ordering is also available.

During MNHS' pre-holiday sale, save 20% on toys, jewelry and MNHS Press books – including Dear Jacob A Mother’s Journey of Hope, Spirits Dancing, Bring Warm Clothes, Can’t Nobody Make a Sweet Potato Pie Like Our Mama! and Euphoric Recall. Pre-signed copies are available for purchase. Supplies limited, order soon. Shop books online.

Check hours here for shopping at the following locations: 

Forest History Center (Dec. 8-9)

Historic Fort Snelling (Dec. 8-9)

James J. Hill House

Mill City Museum

Mille Lacs Indian Trading Post

Minnesota History Center

MN State Capitol (Dec. 8-9)

Oliver Kelley Farm (Dec. 8-9)

Split Rock Lighthouse

Online at shop.mnhs.org

 

Not a member? Now through December 31, get $15 off MNHS' most popular membership tiers. Sign up for membership when you visit one of these sites, or sign up online.

Inline Skating and Indoor Running at U.S. Bank Stadium Returns in December

The winter tradition of indoor running and inline skating on the U.S. Bank Stadium concourses returns on Tuesday and Thursday nights beginning December 5.

Winter Warm-Up, a recreational program featuring inline skating and indoor running, returns to U.S. Bank Stadium this winter beginning on Tuesday, December 5 and ending on Thursday, January 25. Winter Warm-Up will be offered from 5-9 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, featuring fourteen sessions throughout the season with the exception of the Tuesdays following Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Winter Warm-Up is open to all ages and takes place on the stadium’s main concourse (inline skating) and upper concourse (indoor running). Ticketholders are required to sign a waiver prior to participating in these events. Click here for full skating and running rules and requirements.

You Are Invited to the NIEBNA Vision Engagement Session, November 28

Independent viewing sessions November 28 at 6:30pm and 7:45pm; Presentation and Q&A session at 7:15pm, Riverplace Main Hall

The primary goal of this event is to facilitate active engagement and gather direct, actionable feedback to ensure the final vision plan reflects a shared community perspective. Project page

Featured Presentation and Q&A Session:
Urban Ecosystems (UE) invites the community to a key presentation, focusing on the next phase of Nicollet Island-East Bank Neighborhood's urban design vision. The central part of the event will feature an in-depth presentation by the design team followed by a Q&A session, offering insights into the proposed designs and the opportunity for attendees to provide feedback.

Independent Viewing Sessions:
An open and spacious area adjacent to FRGMNT coffee will be used for attendees to evaluate the proposed designs at their own pace during two 45-minute viewing sessions. These sessions, held before and after the main presentation, offer a comfortable setting for informal discussions with members of the UE design team and other community members. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early or stay late to fully engage with the designs and provide valuable feedback.

Additional Engagement Opportunities:
For those unable to attend this event, feedback can be provided on the project's website (www.niebna.vision) or at a future planned engagement session in mid-December. 

November 22 Updates from the Office of Mayor Frey

Update from Mayor Jacob Frey | November 22, 2023

Facts About the Police Contract Negotiations

First of all, the City’s Labor Relations team deserves a big thank you. They have been at the negotiating table on behalf of the City, doing the hard work of negotiating a new contract that both brings about meaningful change and helps recruit and retain new officers. 

Second, there’s been a lot of discussion around our ongoing police contract negotiations over the past week, including the Star Tribune Editorial Board asking the City Council to "try again" and reconsider the incentives. Here are a few key facts. 

Incentives are a key part of the overall strategy 

Departments locally and across the country are implementing recruitment and/or retention bonuses. Will incentives alone fix this problem? Of course not. But the claim that these incentives will make no difference at all defies best-practice guidance and common sense.   

In order to be competitive, we need to offer these types of incentives as part of our overall strategy. The Department of Justice recommends retention incentives as a key component.

Public meetings and accessible public information 

The City and the Police Officers Federation of Minneapolis (POFM) have been at the bargaining table since September 6. All meetings have been open to the public – anyone can attend.  

Officer incentive pay has been publicly featured as a top priority since the City’s very first formal proposal. This proposal has been discussed during public meetings and has been publicized on the City’s website for months. The fact that the City was seeking incentives in this negotiations process is not new information. 

Additionally, the City held three community listening session in summer 2022. The feedback gathered through those sessions has been on the City's website since November 2022. Priority areas that emerged from community feedback were "recruitment and retention" and “increases in compensation to attract quality candidates”.  

City Council engagement in the process 

There has been no shortage of opportunities for the City Council to engage in the police contract work.  

In April 2022, Mayor Frey convened an internal City workgroup focused on developing a shared set of priorities in advance of the police union contract negotiations. This workgroup includes Council President Andrea Jenkins, Council Member Lisa Goodman, Council Member Aisha Chughtai, Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw and City staff. 

Over the past year and months before negotiations started, the workgroup has met regularly. The four Council Members have represented the City Council in this ongoing, collaborative work—making sure that Council has had a voice at the table and policymaker expectations are aligned.    

In convening this workgroup, Mayor Frey became the first Minneapolis mayor to invite the Council to partner in the POFM contract work. The full City Council also received two closed-session briefings this year on the status of ongoing contract negotiations, the most recent of which was on November 2.   

Critically low staffing number and market conditions 

Down nearly 300 officers, the MPD has reached a critically low level of staffing. The current market conditions nationally for hiring police officers necessitate offering significant hiring and retention incentives. Recruitment incentives in metropolitan areas range from $500 - $10,000 annually—with much larger incentives nationally. 

Minneapolis is competing in a market that dictates these incentives have to happen to remain competitive. Some jurisdictions offer lateral hiring bonuses, which result in officers transferring from one jurisdiction to another.  

Reforms 

A consistent theme we have heard from community members, Council Members, and from the MPD is that we need to address the decades-worth of managerial authority that has been given away in past contracts. The letter of agreement would have given us a huge reform regarding how the Chief is able to staff the department and be responsive for the current needs of the city.   

Since the letter of agreement did not pass Council, it's possible this reform will not happen in the full contract negotiations. The Chief – and the community – will have to continue to wait at least 28 days to fill a shift. This will directly impact the level of service we are able to provide to our community members. 

We will continue pushing for additional reforms throughout the rest of the ongoing contract negotiations.

Continued Officer Recruitment and Retention Efforts

We need to attempt every available option for adding and retaining more police officers in Minneapolis. That has been made clear by residents at the ballot box, through the courts, and has been a top priority for Mayor Frey's administration since taking office. 

Last week, the City Council voted against a letter of agreement struck between the City of Minneapolis and the POFM. The agreement would have given recruitment and retention incentives to officers – and would have given the City and the MPD a huge reform to gain back managerial authority over assigning shifts. 

But the proposed recruitment and retention incentives included in the letter of agreement are just one part of the broader strategy to bring in and keep officers who reflect our values. Other pieces of the City's overall strategy include, but are not limited to: 

1. Last year, we dedicated $7 million for retention, recruitment, and hiring support enterprise-wide as part of our federal relief spending proposal – $1 million of that was for MPD specifically. The City’s HR team is working directly with a vendor to develop and produce a top tier recruitment media and marketing campaign for both MPD officers and 911 dispatchers – this is anticipated to be rolled out in early 2024. 
2. The MPD has also been applying both a local and national lens to the department’s boots-on-the-ground efforts, including: Step-Up summer internship for local youth, attending career fairs around the City in cultural corridors, regularly visiting colleges across the country, including visiting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (resulted in a partnership with HBCU Alabama A&M University), and going to military bases across the country. 
3. Chief O’Hara and his leadership team have also been pushing for licensure reform at the Capitol – those measures would expand opportunities to recruit from new pools of candidates. 
4. The City and the MPD have also taken steps to streamline the application and background checks process to get qualified applicants in the door as fast as possible. 
5. The City has moved civilian recruiters from MPD to HR in order to more effectively assist candidates through the hiring process. 

This is a full-court press to reduce barriers and replenish the ranks so we can provide our residents with safety services.

Mayor Frey, Commissioner Barnette, and City Leaders Highlight Safety Beyond Policing Work

Last week, Mayor Jacob Frey, Community Safety Commissioner Todd Barnette, and Performance Management & Innovation Director Kira Hasbargen provided an update on safety beyond policing work at the City, including next steps to begin implementation of the Minneapolis Safe and Thriving Communities Report.

To help guide the initial implementation work, the City will be entering a single-source contract with the New York University School of Law’s Policing Project. The contract, vetted by City staff, was unanimously approved by the City Council on Thursday.

Back in July, Mayor Frey, alongside City leaders and Dr. Antonio Oftelie, released the 143-page Safe and Thriving Communities Report outlining a long-term vision and future recommendations for continuing to build out an ecosystem for safety beyond policing. Currently, the Office of Community Safety and the Office of Public Service (via the Performance Management & Innovation department) are collaborating to build out the foundation of the report’s recommendations.

Mayor Frey Supports Pay Increase for Rideshare Drivers, Would Sign Ordinance This Year

Last week, Mayor Frey expressed his continued support for paying Minneapolis rideshare drivers a fair and equitable wage. The mayor supports a $1.17 per-mile and 34 cents per-minute pay for drivers – which would roughly double the current rate of pay.

He is ready to sign this into law this year, but City Council Members have delayed discussion of the city’s Transportation Network Companies rideshare ordinance. It was supposed to be publicly discussed on November 28 – but Council Members removed it from the agenda and have pushed the discussion to next year.  

Mayor Frey Nominates Margaret Anderson Kelliher for City Operations Officer

Mayor Frey has nominated Margaret Anderson Kelliher to the appointed role of City Operations Officer for the City of Minneapolis. Anderson Kelliher has a long and proven track record of leading complex and strategic government work, especially in times of change. She has held top roles for the Minnesota House of Representatives, State of Minnesota Department of Transportation, and currently for the City of Minneapolis’ Public Works Department.

As City Operations Officer, Anderson Kelliher would oversee the City’s Office of Public Service and its 17 departments, including the 311 Service Center, Regulatory Services, Race, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, Community Planning and Economic Development, and Communications. She would also provide enterprise-wide leadership and direction to thousands of employees to ensure the delivery of high-quality, coordinated city services.

“Every mayor in the country needs a leader like Margaret Anderson Kelliher – someone who has been navigating challenges and solving problems for their entire public service career,” said Mayor Frey. “Margaret’s governing resume is second to none and her community ties are built over decades – that combination of commitment and expertise is exactly what we need in our City Operations Officer. I know she is the right person to continue building out the Office of Public Service as a hub of effective, efficient, and equitable government services for Minneapolis residents, and I’m grateful for her willingness to continue serving the City of Minneapolis in this capacity.”

Mayor Frey, City of Minneapolis Highlight Success of Evie Carshare Program

Mayor Jacob Frey and the City of Minneapolis – in conjunction with Mayor Melvin Carter and the City of Saint Paul – celebrated the success of Evie Carshare, the City’s first all-electric fleet of shared vehicles. In 2022, Mayor Frey alongside Mayor Carter and Senator Tina Smith, announced the launch of the carshare network in the Twin Cities – the first 100% renewably powered and municipally owned carshare in the country.

Since launching, the program has provided 150,000 trips to people across the Twin Cities and logged 1.5 million zero-emission miles, helping to reduce the region’s carbon footprint. In his 2024 proposed budget, Mayor Frey has allocated $730,000 to expand the electrical vehicle stations, while leveraging an additional $2-3 million in federal funds to support electric vehicles and carbon emission reduction.

“Electric vehicles are the future and the continued success of this carshare program is evidence of that,” said Mayor Frey. “By embracing electric vehicles, Minneapolis is improving mobility options for residents, reducing emissions, and leading the way toward a greener, smarter, and more sustainable future for generations to come. We’re so grateful to have the EV Spot Network program in the Twin Cities and look forward to our continued partnership with them.” 

View the 2022 HOURCAR Impact Report.

How to Get Your COVID-19, Flu and RSV Vaccines This Year

Immunizations are available this fall and winter in the United States that can help protect against three major respiratory diseases: COVID-19, flu and RSV. Immunization against these viruses remains the best protection for reducing the risk of serious illness, hospitalizations, long-term health impacts and death.

Recommendations for these immunizations vary based on age, pregnancy status or medical conditions.

To find flu and COVID-19 vaccines, visit vaccines.gov.

Get to Know Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc.

Article by Becky Fillinger, Photos provided

Abdulrahman Wako

A discussion with Executive Director, Abdulrahman Wako

In July, Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc. (EPNI) welcomed their new Executive Director, Abdulrahman Wako. We talked to him about EPNI's history, current initiatives and the many ways community may be involved with the organization. EPNI is in good hands – Wako believes that by helping others lead better lives, he can contribute to creating a more livable and compassionate world for everyone, both present and future generations.

Q:  What is the history of EPNI?  

A:  Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc. is a nonprofit community organization located in the Elliot Park neighborhood. EPNI was established in 1976, primarily focusing on renovation and building new housing in the neighborhood. The focus of the organization has shifted over the years, and our mission now centers on building community vitality by connecting and empowering neighbors. A 15-member Board of Directors, comprised of residents and institutional representatives, governs the organization in representing of the Elliot Park neighborhood. The neighborhood is home to approximately 6,500 residents from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and is growing rapidly as new housing is developed. As the neighborhood grows, EPNI has encouraged a mixture of affordable and high-end housing that retains and values the diversity of our community members. Elliot Park is home to many well-known institutions and organizations, including Hennepin County Medical Center, Augustana, North Central University, Catholic Charities, Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge, House of Charity, Kraus-Anderson, and more.   

Q:  I saw this quote on the Association’s Facebook page: "When you have hands on, and you're working together for the same goal, it makes for a very tight neighborhood." - Elliot Park Neighborhood (EPNI) Board Member Jordan Robertson. Could you tell us your thoughts on residents working together for EPNI? 

A:  I couldn't agree more with the sentiment expressed in that quote by Jordan Robertson. The idea of residents working together for the common goal of enhancing our neighborhood is truly inspiring. It's that sense of community, shared purpose, and the dedication of individuals that can lead to the development of a vibrant and tightly-knit neighborhood. 

In my opinion, that kind of collaboration includes partners and businesses in our neighborhood, and is not just a testament to the strength of our community but also a driving force behind our success. When residents, partners and businesses come together, they can pool their unique skills, talents, and perspectives to address needs and concerns. This collective effort can foster a sense of ownership and pride in our neighborhood, making it an even more welcoming and thriving place to live.

Q:  What are the current top priorities for EPNI?  

A:  Our priorities for EPNI this year are centered around fostering a stronger, safer, and more engaged neighborhood for our residents. Three key areas of focus stand out: 

Grocery Store Initiative: Our foremost priority is to address the pressing need for a neighborhood grocery store. We are actively engaged in efforts to attract and support the establishment of a quality grocery store within our community. Access to fresh and affordable groceries is vital for the well-being of our residents, and we are dedicated to making this a reality. 

Safety and Well-being: Ensuring the safety of our residents is a top concern. We will work closely with local law enforcement, park police, Ward 6, partner organizations and residents to develop and implement strategies to enhance our neighborhood's safety and security. This includes initiatives like neighborhood walk programs and collaborating with partners to address community concerns. 

Resident Engagement: Strong community engagement is the cornerstone of our organization. We aim to bolster resident involvement and participation in neighborhood matters. For the following year, we are launching new engagement initiatives, including the microgrant program, community listening sessions and volunteer opportunities, to encourage residents to actively shape the future of our neighborhood. 

Q:  I read of partnerships with companies and local schools/universities, and I’m sure with the City of Minneapolis, too. Please tell us about your partnerships – how they come about, current partnerships, and who manages the relationships.

A:  As the Executive Director, building and maintaining trusting relationships is my job. I understand that partnerships are a cornerstone of our organization's success, and they play a pivotal role in our mission to serve our neighborhood effectively. Most of our partnerships are within our borders or with the City of Minneapolis. To ensure the success and sustainability of these collaborations, we emphasize open communication, regular meetings and clear objectives. We have valuable partnerships with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, Minneapolis Ward 6, East Town Business Partnership and North Central University, to name a few.  

Here's how they come about: 

Partnerships with our organization often begin with a shared commitment to community development. We proactively seek out organizations and institutions whose missions align with ours, and those who service the same neighbors as we do. Once we’ve established contact and we’ve shared our vision, we identify mutual interest and benefit areas. Once we’ve established a partnership, we focus on defining and deepening what that partnership can accomplish with regard to our shared visions. We understand that by working together, we can amplify our impact and create a more vibrant and resilient community. 

Q:  How may local neighbors or businesses become more active with EPNI?  

A:  Engaging local neighbors and businesses to become more active with EPNI is at the heart of our mission. There are numerous ways for individuals and businesses to get involved, and I'm happy to elaborate on some of these opportunities: 

1. Recurring Meetings: EPNI hosts regular neighborhood meetings, such as our monthly Board and committee meetings, which are open to the public. These meetings are excellent opportunities for neighbors and businesses to participate actively in our decision-making processes, share ideas, and voice concerns. Our Board meetings happen every third Monday of the month, and our Land Use and Transportation meetings are every third Thursday of the month. 

2. Special Events: EPNI organizes and participates in various special events throughout the year. These events often require volunteers to help with planning, logistics and on-site assistance. Local businesses can contribute by sponsoring or participating in these events, while neighbors can volunteer their time. This year, we’ve collaborated and put together several events, such as Party on the Block, Neighborhood Night Out, our Annual Social and Elections, Annual Spring Clean Up, and our Annual Fall Clean-Up.

3. Volunteer Opportunities: EPNI often seeks volunteers for various initiatives, including neighborhood cleanups, neighborhood improvement projects, and outreach efforts. We are currently planning to plant additional trees in the coming spring, providing an excellent volunteering opportunity. 

4. Committees: We have two committees dedicated to specific aspects of neighborhood development, such as land use, housing, safety, environment, and transportation. Neighbors and local businesses are encouraged to join these committees to contribute their expertise and passion to these critical areas. Our current committees include the Land-Use and Transportation Committee and the Neighborhood Vitality Committee. 

5. Partnerships: Local businesses can collaborate with EPNI through partnerships. This may involve supporting our programs, events or initiatives, providing resources, or even hosting community events at their establishments.

6. Support and Feedback: Neighbors and businesses can support EPNI by attending our events, becoming members of our Board and committees, and providing feedback and input on issues that matter to them. We value our community members' insights to ensure we are representing Elliot Park neighbors to the best of our ability.  

We believe that active community involvement is what makes EPNI thrive, and we are always excited to welcome new neighbors and businesses into our community-driven initiatives. 

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  To stay updated on our latest news and activities, we offer multiple channels for the community to follow us:

Visit our organization's website, where we regularly post event updates and important announcements.  

Sign up for our email newsletter to receive regular updates directly in your inbox. This is a great way to stay informed about our initiatives, events, and community news.  

We maintain an active presence on Facebook and Instagram.

Attend our monthly Board meetings on the third Monday of every month - you can find more details on our website.

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Around the Elliot Park neighborhood:

Drexel Apartments, 1009 Park Avene

Elliot Park Skate Park

The Elliot Park Hotel is located at 823 5th Avenue S

Band Box Diner is a neighborhood landmark.

Mill City Farmers Market Vendor, Vikings and Goddesses Pie Company, Opens Pastry Pickup Window in St. Paul

Vikings and Goddesses Pie Company is taking Thanksgiving orders through Sunday, November 19th. Order here!

Vikings and Goddesses Pie Company (VAG) is a small, woman-owned bakery based in St. Paul that uses fresh local butter, flour, fruits and veggies from nearby farms to create mouth-watering pastries - highlighting the best of what the Twin Cities has to offer! Owner Rachel Anderson and her husband Yoji work directly with local farmers and food hubs like The Good Acre to utilize surplus food and minimize waste.

Despite what name suggests, VAG also makes a variety of baked goods including croissants, seasonal danishes, hand pies, muffins and more. Until recently they have only been available on Saturday mornings at the Mill City Farmers Market, along with a selection of local coffee shops. Now, VAG fans will have plenty of opportunities to get their fix of pastry perfection.

The business has been baking out of 2036 Marshall Avenue in Saint Paul since October, 2020. However, up until now there wasn’t a retail presence at this location. The new pickup window at the Merriam Park bakery will be open every Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 8am until 2pm and will offer their current seasonal selection of pastries and pies. Get there earlier in the day for a bigger selection! Customers will still be able to preorder and pick up throughout the week and the business will maintain a stall at the Mill City Farmers Market. The kitchen and store window buildout was made possible thanks to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture AGRI Value-Added Grant Program.

Thanksgiving is one big carb-fest of a holiday. If you or any of your guests are gluten intolerant, consider VAG's gluten-free pumpkin pie.

MacPhail Center for Music CEO Kyle Carpenter Announces August 2024 Retirement

MacPhail Center for Music today announced that its CEO for the past 12 years, Kyle Carpenter, will retire in August, 2024. “MacPhail, under Kyle’s leadership, has achieved unprecedented growth, community access, and financial strength,” says Kate Whittington, MacPhail’s board chair, “His well-earned retirement comes at the end of a tremendous tenure.”

Kyle CarpenterOn Carpenter’s watch, MacPhail has nearly doubled its enrollment to 15,000 students, becoming the largest community music school in the nation. Through additional expansion sites, 70 new community partnerships, the acquisition of the Madeline Island Chamber Music summer program, and the start-up of live online music lessons across the state of Minnesota over ten years ago, MacPhail has gained a statewide presence and impact.

When COVID hit, MacPhail immediately pivoted to all live online teaching, which allowed students uninterrupted musical learning progress through the pandemic. “We were very fortunate, as an arts institution, to not experience a single layoff or furlough of personnel during the pandemic,” Carpenter says.

MacPhail has just completed Up Tempo!, a three-year comprehensive fundraising campaign. Up Tempo! was enthusiastically embraced by the community and far surpassed its $25 million dollar goal well ahead of schedule. The funds will help MacPhail to achieve Carpenter’s primary and aspirational goal when he became CEO, “To never turn a student away because of their personal financial circumstances.”

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have helped MacPhail grow. I am proud of our community, faculty, and staff and what we have accomplished together. With the success and completion of the campaign combined with the strength of our board of directors and the remarkable skill of the senior leadership team, I am confident that we are financially prepared and strategically equipped to take MacPhail to a new level. This is a natural time for transition to new leadership.” Kyle Carpenter

“Kyle has been a remarkable leader, change agent, and innovator for MacPhail for more than a decade. His business background, his ability to listen, and his collaborative style were perfect mix for the job,” says Whittington. “He leaves MacPhail in a strong position for the next leader.”

The board has retained Doran Leadership Partners to assist in a thoughtful and inclusive process to select Carpenter’s successor. They expect a great deal of enthusiasm for the position.

North Central University - A Downtown Institution Since 1930

Article by Becky Fillinger, Photos provided

North Central University is located at 910 Elliot Avenue

Did you know that Minneapolis has a university situated in the Elliot Park neighborhood? North Central University (NCU) was founded in 1930 and has a current enrollment of 1500 students. We talked to Jordan Robertson, Executive Director of Operations, about the university’s history, programs and ways that the community may engage with the institution.

Jordan RobertsonQ:  What’s the history of North Central University? What majors and programs does NCU offer?

A:  We’re so pleased to tell you about North Central University! NCU is a coeducational, undergraduate, primarily residential college owned and operated by 11 Assemblies of God districts of the upper Midwest. We were founded in 1930 under the name North Central Bible Institute, the school originally enrolled 26 students, and classes were held in the Minneapolis Gospel Tabernacle (now Christ Church International). Enrollment steadily increased from 1933 to 1936, and it was clear that the school needed to expand. In 1936, North Central moved to its current location at 910 Elliot Avenue in downtown Minneapolis to provide housing, office, and classroom space for 500 students.

In 1955, to meet the growing demand for more educational opportunities, North Central added four-year degree programs. The school’s name was changed to North Central Bible College in 1957 to reflect the new bachelor’s degree offerings. In 1964, North Central was accredited by the American Association of Bible Colleges. Recognizing its commitment to the needs of its constituents, North Central continued expanding its offerings and was accredited in 1986 by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA).

At the spring 1998 meeting of the Board of Regents, the college’s name was changed to North Central University. Enrollment has more than tripled from 401 students in 1975 to a present enrollment of approximately 1,500 in the residence and distance education programs. North Central has produced more than 24,000 alumni, and of its graduates, 75 percent are presently in ministry positions throughout the United States and around the world.

We offer more than 60 college academic programs including majors and minors taught by biblically-grounded faculty.

Q:  Are there unique or specialized programs that NCU is known for?

A:  NCU’s College of Business and Technology is the largest and most effectively market-faced department at the university, working with Minnesota based companies such as General Mills and Cargill on consumer-based marketing strategies, general business administration techniques, accounting and finance practices, and the like. Our graduates are highly sought after through our robust internship programming where North Central students make great impact while still in their vein of study at the university.

Q:  Does NCU encourage community involvement?

A:  Absolutely. The university, being located in and dedicated to an urban environment, is an incubator for community work through social and behavioral sciences, ministry opportunities, and humanitarian leadership practices. Our students operate a large and active student organization structure through which specific concentrations can be focused on via consistent work in and around Minneapolis. One such student organization is Elliot Park United, a group of students who commit to service projects, food security, housing security, and neighborhood care. The majority of their work ties in well with our City of Minneapolis neighborhood organization, Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc.

Q:  What would you like our downtown readership to know about your university?

A:  North Central University is an active, dedicated partner for good in the east downtown Minneapolis area. Our goal is first to raise up and train new leaders for the world of today and tomorrow, but a close second is to impact the world around the university positively through our business practices and mission as Christians. Being in Elliot Park since 1936, the university has seen many changes, but it remains steadfastly dedicated to working with its local neighbors and business leaders to make East Town a place your readers want to live, work, and thrive in.

Q:  Do you ever have days when the community is encouraged to visit North Central?

A:  NCU often works with Elliot Park Neighborhood, Inc. and East Town Business Partnership for meetings and functions throughout the year. The university also presents a number of fine arts programs during the academic year such as Songs of the Season, a celebration of the Christmas story, and a spring theatrical production. Information on upcoming events can be found at https://www.northcentral.edu/events/. The public is also encouraged to attend games for one of 15 varsity sports, including a burgeoning eSports program, at the university. Many of our local neighbors attend volleyball and basketball games. Information on upcoming athletic events can be found at https://ncurams.com/. You can find out what is happening at NCU or on the horizon through our blog we call “Table Salt” at https://www.northcentral.edu/blog/.

NCU volleyball

Pritzker Hageman to Host December 13 Community Blood Drive with American Red Cross at Machine Shop

Pritzker Hageman Red Cross Blood Drive at Machine Shop

Wednesday, December 13, 2023, 10:00AM to 4:00PM

Machine Shop, 300 2nd Street SE

Appointments available, but not required: pritzlaw.us/donateblood

Local Non-profits Would Love Your Support on Give to the Max Day, November 16

Launched in November 2009, GiveMN helps nonprofit organizations of all sizes reach new donors, increases giving through fun and engaging campaigns and significantly reduces overall fundraising costs. It is an independent 501(c) (3) supporting organization of the Minnesota Community Foundation. Donations through the GiveMN.org site to nonprofit organizations are tax deductible and irrevocable.

There are a number of local nonprofits participating in Give to the Max Day on November 16. The system is easy to use, and receipts formatted for tax filing purposes are promptly emailed.

Examples of local organizations to consider supporting:

People Serving People / Minnesota Center for Book Arts / MPS Film Society / Minneapolis Parks Foundation / The Great River Coalition / Friends of the Hennepin County Library / MacPhail Center for Music / Be That Neighbor / Mill City Farmers Market / Firefighters for Healing / Open Book / Project for Pride in Living / Ten Thousand Things Theater / Hennepin History Museum / Minnesota Historical Society (funds the Mill City Museum)

New Art Exhibit, Visions Unveiled, Opens at The Mill Yard December 10

 

Visions Unveiled

Opening Reception Sunday, December 10, 4:00 - 6:00PM

Stonebridge Lofts, 1120 S 2nd Street

Join the The Mill Yard opening reception to meet the featured artists and engage with beautiful art. Wine, beverages and snacks are served.

The Mill City. Residents celebrate our area’s industrial heritage of the mighty Mississippi River and the mills. Today, what we see are the most recognizable Minneapolis landmarks. However, this is only part of the story. Rail lines were key to Minneapolis’ growth, and were particularly integral to the Mill District, bringing in wheat and timber and shipping out flour and lumber. We also honor the history of the mills, the reason for the rail yard’s existence. The Mill Yard aims to be both a gathering place for art and artists and a conduit by which art can be shared with and disseminated into the wider community. 

Artists featured at this show:

Maggie Anderson – ceramics

Maggie Anderson’s primary clay body is porcelain. She creates functional pieces that present visual interest beyond their functionality. Most of these pieces will be carved, pierced, slipped or in other ways altered to balance beauty and function. Her sculptural pieces are fired using the Raku method, a Japanese technique of quick firing that exposes the clay to violent temperature extremes. Raku always produces a one of a kind piece.

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April Barnhart – jeweler

Aprilierre Jewelry, led by the creative visionary April Barnhart, embodies the essence of "Re-Birth" and draws inspiration from nature. The metals used undergo a transformative journey as they are recycled, melted, and forged into new works boasting rich organic textures. The jewelry created by Aprilierre is a seamless blend of delicacy and chic sophistication, with a touch of boldness that effortlessly complements individual styles.

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Eric Cornett – painter

Eric left his job as a scenic artist and manager for commercial art production, and in 1998 he established Faux Pas, painting custom murals and decorative wall finishes. In 2006 he began painting commissioned and un-commissioned oils on both canvas and linen. His realistic depictions of nature and landscapes draw the viewer into a space of beauty and repose. “I have only recently realized that the majority of my paintings are capturing quiet moments, peaceful and tranquil, as if to preserve a moment of beauty and calm in a world of too much background noise.”

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Anna Karena – painter

Anna Karena is an intuitive, abstract artist working in a variety of mediums including paint, mixed media, ink, and beadwork. Her pieces frequently evolve from layering that builds upon a spontaneous direction without a preset outcome. This keeps her work vibrant, lively, and authentic. Anna shows her work in various locations around the Twin Cities and viewers are drawn into the bright and inviting nature of her pieces.  Anna works in her studio located in the Carriage House in the NE Minneapolis Arts District.

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Laura Stamper – jeweler

Laura Stamper’s background is in illustration, painting, and sculpture. She brings these skills to her figurative jewelry pieces. For years, Laura incorporated porcelain sculpture with metal work. Her progression into enamel work seemed inevitable. Her current body of work is a marriage of elegance and the unexpected. The contemporary movement of the metalwork is in sharp contrast to the primitive elements of rough stones and the elegance of enamels.

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Mary Welke – painter

Mary Welke’s art represents nature and natural things. In her birch tree series she considers the markings and design of the peeling birch bark as a metaphor for the human life experience, one of renewal and hope. Mary has an MFA from Pratt Institute in New York and a BFA from Minneapolis College of Art & Design. Her birch paintings are in U.S. Bank Corporate Art Collection and other collections.

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Lena Osman – painter, Art for All

Lena Osman is a visual artist who discovered her passion for painting years ago while growing up in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. Living with cerebral palsy, she faces unique challenges daily but her indomitable spirit finds expression through art. Lena’s collection, which now boasts more than 200 original works, encompasses a diverse range of subjects, from vibrant flowers to captivating portraits, animals, and thought-provoking abstract designs. Her artwork has been featured in shows both in the Twin Cities and Abu Dhabi.

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Hannah Rousar – photographer, Art for All

Hannah Rousar grew up with three siblings, one of them her twin.  Hannah has Down Syndrome. When she was in high school, she learned to use a camera and take photographs. Following that graphic arts class she learned the joys of photographing with an iPhone! Many of her photographs reflect her experiences while traveling with family. “Being able to take pictures of what I see and what I do makes me so happy!” Hannah also has a love of dance and has participated in the Special Olympics.

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TheMillYard.Stonebridge@gmail.com / Facebook / Website / Instagram

Lost Colony: The Hennepin Island Murders - A Discussion with Author Steve Berg

Article by Becky Fillinger, Photos provided

A Nordic Noir crime novel set in Minneapolis? Yes, please! Author Steve Berg sets his debut novel in Minneapolis on fictional Hennepin Island. He’s new as a writer of fiction, but has been a journalist for over 30 years. Looking for gifts? Lost Colony:  The Hennepin Island Murders is a perfect gift for those who love the crime and suspense genre – well, I think that anyone in the Twin Cities would love the story set amongst familiar landmarks. We talked to the author about his inspiration for the book and why Minneapolis-St. Paul is perfect for Nordic Noir books and movies.

Q:  You are a long-time journalist and you also wrote two architecture books, “Target Field: The New Home of the Minnesota Twins” (2010) and “U.S. Bank Stadium: The New Home of the Minnesota Vikings” (2016). What inspired you to write a crime novel and base it in Minneapolis?

Steve BergA:  Correct - It wasn’t just those two non-fiction books but thousands of newspaper and magazine stories written over a 30-year career that compelled me to try something new: write fiction. I’d never done it. It was immensely intimidating. I didn’t know if I could do it. Journalism trains you not to make stuff up! I had spent my life writing about real events. The imperative of inventing fictional characters, settings and plots was exciting but daunting. A real challenge. As for the crime novel aspect, I didn’t really set out to write a book in any particular genre, although I’m a big fan of film noir. The subject of murder seems inescapable the world of noir. To set it in in the Twin Cities seemed almost necessary. I lived there for most of my working life. I know the cities well. Culturally, Minneapolis-St. Paul feels like my home.

Q:  Olof Palme, the former Prime Minister of Sweden, was assassinated on February 28, 1986, while walking home from a cinema with his wife Lisbeth Palme on the central Stockholm Street Sveavägen. He was shot in the back at close range and died on the spot. His wife was slightly wounded by a second shot. This historical event figures prominently in your novel. Why has this Swedish murder cold case stayed on your radar? 

A:  As a fiction rookie, I felt I needed a real event to anchor my story. The “theme” surrounding the Palme assassination always fascinated me: shattered innocence. This kind of thing wasn’t supposed to happen in the safe, cozy Stockholm of 1986. It wasn’t supposed to happen on safe, cozy Hennepin Island in 2016 either, but the horrific murders there were just as shocking — especially happening, as they did, in a “refuge,” a church. Over all, I thought that the span of distance (4,000 miles between Stockholm and Minneapolis), the span of time (30 years between Palme’s assassination in 1986 and our story in 2016), and the span between reality and fiction opened a lot of space for the development of plot, character and setting. Plus, there were cultural similarities between Sweden and Minnesota that might prove useful. The best example, perhaps, is a main character’s delusional belief that Hennepin Island (a fictional island in the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Paul) is a colony of the once-robust Swedish empire of the 17th Century. To bolster the delusion, this man’s family built a castle on the island — and built the church where the Minneapolis murders took place.

As a city, I think Minneapolis-St. Paul offers an under-appreciated atmosphere for story-telling. It has lots of water, a fierce climate, historic neighborhoods, a vigorous arts community and a unique ethnic heritage that lends itself to fiction and film. Not every story has to happen in New York or California or in the deep South.

Q:  In your novel, there is a murder in Minneapolis, in a Swedish American church. Span Lokken, a demoralized newspaperman, and his partner, Maggie Lindberg, the murdered clergyman’s stylish young assistant, join forces to search for the killers. Will we see Span and Maggie in future novels, set also in Minneapolis? 

A:  There’s no sequel in the works. That’s not to say there won’t be another book featuring those characters and a similar setting.

Q:  If the novel takes off and movie rights are published, will you write the screenplay?

A:  If the opportunity arose, our son, Alex Rollins Berg, is an accomplished New York-based screenwriter. He has a six-part TV series script already outlined. It would be hard to picture me as a screenwriter without Alex taking the lead.

Q:  Do you have a favorite author in the crime/noir genre?

A:  I confess I’m not a big reader of the genre although I especially enjoy the late Elmore Leonard. (My favorite writers are E.B. White, Richard Ford, George Saunders and John LeCarre). I didn’t write this book thinking it would be published. I just wrote it to see if I could do it. I’ve been surprised and delighted by the reviews and the reception. 

Q:  How may we purchase Lost Colony: The Hennepin Island Murders? 

A:  The e and print books are available at all the usual places - Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Apple, GooglePlay. The audiobook is available through Audible, Amazon and Apple.

Q:  How do we follow your news?

A:  Please follow my social channels:

Steve Berg:  https://www.steveberg.org 

Instagram: @lostcolonynovel

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCam7xexGQCsJI5v3S4AD5ZA

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/steve.berg.549

YouTube book trailer:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pZJfLSEhBk

Farmers Markets in Minneapolis Remain Open Through Winter Months with Local Groceries and Handmade Gifts

Markets Offer Locally Grown Produce, Foods and Beverages, Artisan Craft Goods and More with Many Great Holiday Gift Options

With summer seeming like a distant memory, the snow beginning to fly, and the next growing season many months away, Minnesota shoppers can still enjoy locally grown and produced foods all winter long. By shopping Winter Markets, you will find root veggies, winter squash, microgreens, mushrooms, eggs, meats and cheeses, baked goods, confections, beverages, sauces, pickled foods, locally roasted coffee, jams, and many other foods, as well as apothecary items and artisan-made crafts and other goods. The Winter Markets also offer great options for holiday gift-giving including jewelry, bath and body care, sustainable home goods, local flavors and more.

Farmers markets in Minneapolis foster community engagement and make it easy for families and individuals to eat healthful, seasonal meals. Many markets in the Farmers Markets of MPLS collaborative host free community events and feature recipes on their websites to highlight easy, healthy, affordable meals using what’s in season at any given time of the year. The markets are listed here, where shoppers can learn about each market’s community events, offerings, and recipes: Find a Market - Farmers Markets of Minneapolis.org

Winter Market Locations and Schedules:

Mill City Farmers Market: 10:00a-1:00p Mill City Museum, 704 S 2nd Street

November 18

December 2, 16

January 6, 20

February 3, 17

March 2, 16

April 6, 20 

Minneapolis Farmers Market: 9:00am-Noon 312 East Lyndale Ave N

November 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26

December 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23, 30

January 6, 20

February 3, 17

March 2, 16

April 6, 13, 20, 27

Neighborhood Roots at Bachman’s on Lyndale: 10:00am-1:00pm (Kingfield, Fulton, and Nokomis) 6010 Lyndale Avenue S 

November 11

January 13

February 17

March 9 

Northeast Farmers Market (in Quincy Hall): 10:00a-2:00p 1325 Quincy Street NE

December 3

January 7

February 4

March 3

April 14

The Farmers Markets of Minneapolis collaborative officially formed in early 2017 to build a more connected, accessible, and effective market system, and there are nearly 20 farmers markets operating in Minneapolis. Many of the markets accept EBT and Market Bucks. Current activities include collaborative metrics collection, marketing, technical assistance, and other collaborative opportunities, in partnership with the City of Minneapolis, University of Minnesota, Homegrown Minneapolis, Minnesota Department of Agriculture and other market champions. The collaborative welcomes and encourages all markets in Minneapolis to participate. The mission of the Farmers Markets of Minneapolis Collaborative is to foster the vitality of the City’s farmers markets through strategic and informed innovation, advocacy, education, and cohesive partnerships. The organization provides services to all member markets in Minneapolis.

Minnesota State Flag And Seal Designs Available for Public Viewing

Photo: CBS News

More than 2,600 design submissions now available to view online

The public is invited to see what Minnesotans think the next state flag and seal should look like.  More than 2,600 designs were submitted to the State Emblems Redesign Commission during a one-month period, and the qualifying submissions are now available online.

Minnesota state flag designs make up about 85% of the submissions. Those are available to view at https://serc.mnhs.org/flags.

Minnesota state seal designs make up approximately 15% of submissions. Those are available to view at https://serc.mnhs.org/seals.

Both links have also been added to the State Emblems Redesign Commission website (www.mnhs.org/serc)

Later this month, the Commission will select five submissions each for the new state seal and state flag. The Commission will select one design (or a modified version) to be utilized as the basis for each emblem.

The State Emblems Redesign Commission was established in the 2023 legislative session to develop and adopt a new design for the official state seal and a new design for the official state flag no later than January 1, 2024.

As outlined in state legislation, the Minnesota Historical Society is providing administrative support to the State Emblems Redesign Commission.

November 2023 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a November 6 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.

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

Project Map

Latest Project News

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue lining the existing storm tunnel at the Mississippi River with concrete and plan to resume excavation activities in the coming weeks.

2nd Ave

• Crews continue lining the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the new tunnel access shaft in the southbound lanes of 2nd Ave S, just north of the Washington Ave intersection.

Portland Ave

• Crews continue lining the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.

Lining progress

In October, crews continued to work on the concrete tunnel lining, pouring about 1,600 cubic yards of concrete. To date 11,300 cubic yards of concrete have been poured. As noted in the infographic above, this is just under three and a half times the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 80% complete.

Long-term closures/restrictions

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

• Northbound lane of Portland Ave will be periodically closed between Washington Ave and 2nd Closures will happen during the workday only.
  • Closure is for the placement of concrete into the tunnel.
  • East crosswalk across Washington and north crosswalk across Portland will be closed.
  • Sidewalks will remain open to businesses and residences.

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

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

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

• The parking lot and trail near Mill Runs Park is closed for the winter.

• 2nd Ave S remains a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Ave and 1st St S. Access will be restricted until the project is completed.
  • Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S remain open. There may be short-term access delays while crews move equipment and materials around.

What to expect

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

Stay Connected

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.

Email the project team: info@mplscentralcitytunnel.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-888-9418

Get to Know the Grinch! A Discussion With Actor Reed Sigmund

Article by Becky Fillinger, Photos provided

Reed Sigmund as the Grinch 

See Reed as the Grinch in How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at Children’s Theatre Company November 7 through January 7

Reed Sigmund has played the role of the Grinch in Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at Children's Theatre Company (CTC) for six years. We talked to him about finding the essence of the Grinch, being a member of the theater’s Acting Company and interacting on stage with his spouse, Autumn Ness and child actors. Get to know more about the actor the Star Tribune called “a man of 1,000 faces.”

Reed SigmundQ:  Can you share any personal connections or experiences that help you relate to The Grinch's character?

A:  On the surface, there’s not a whole lot! I’m not green, or all that hairy, and I actually adore every little Christmas tradition. But at our cores, we have plenty in common. Unfortunately, I think we all know what it’s like to feel lonely. Or different. Or outcast. Maybe not constantly, but we’ve all had our moments of loneliness. I know I had plenty during my younger years of yesterday. And those lonely feelings brought their cruel feelings friends along for the ride. Loneliness often comes with sadness, frustration, despair, and anger. Thankfully, I was found and helped by numerous incredible friends. But I’m able to remember, and tap into, those hurtful feelings.

Q:  The Grinch's relationship with Cindy Lou Who is central to the story. How do you build chemistry with the child actor playing Cindy Lou?

A:  I’ve been so lucky over the years! Every young actor who’s taken on that role has brought their own bright presence, tremendous talent, and playful personality to the stage, and all I’ve had to do is react. Whether it’s in the rehearsal room or onstage, it’s always about listening. Listening to them sing, listening to them tell stories, listening to them find their own unique approach to each line. I haven’t had to really “build” any chemistry. I’ve just always tried to remain open and curious about how each actor will be different, and the chemistry comes on its own.

Q:  The Grinch is a beloved character. How did you approach bringing your own unique interpretation to the role while staying true to the character's essence? 

A:  The role definitely comes with built-in expectations. And while it’s important to acknowledge that, I never focused on imitating what other performers did with the role. (Honestly, I ain’t that skilled at impressions.)  I also didn’t want to instantly betray the audience’s expectations by putting my own spin on the role with the sole intention of being different. After getting the role, without rewatching any previous versions of the character, I let my memories of the iconic voice work and physicality of other Grinches sink in. Then I let it digest. Then I focused on the words. The character. The relationships. And the story. By the time I was on my feet in rehearsal, this Grinch had kind of become its own thing. The influences are obvious, but nothing is a simple duplication.

Q:  This is your 6th time appearing as the Grinch at the Children’s Theatre Company. How do you keep your performance fresh?   

A:  This role is so ripe with possibilities and depth, that I could never tire of fully exploring every nuanced layer that I discover. I don’t think my work and exploration with this role will ever be complete. If ever I feel it is, that’s the moment I move on from it. Acting should always be about discovery. I’ve also been fortunate enough to work with other actors who play and work the same way. We try to never stop playing. Never stop digging. Never assume that we already have all the answers.

Q:  You and your wife, Autumn Ness, are part of the full-time professional resident acting company at the CTC. In The Grinch, Autumn plays Mama Who. Could you share with us your thoughts about acting with your spouse and being in the resident acting company? 

A:  I believe the best performances are created in an atmosphere of trust. If I feel safe in a space, I take greater risks. I feel I have permission to fail. I feel I won’t be judged or ridiculed for following an idea or impulse that didn’t quite work. I feel I can fall on my face, knowing that someone will help me up, instead of criticizing me for my mistake. That’s why working with Autumn, and the rest of the Acting Company, is an immeasurable gift. They make me feel safe and supported. That allows me to create freely and let every idea have an opportunity to flourish, instead of being suppressed by self-doubt or intimidation. The best moments I’ve created onstage are entirely due to the relationships and trust I share with Autumn and my fellow company Members. 

Q:  On a personal note, I read that your home in Stillwater burned earlier this year. Is your new home complete?

A:  Oh yeah! We were in a house fire! Our home is being rebuilt and should be ready for us in less than two months. It’s been a long road, but this community has been impossibly supportive and generous. We’ve received an overwhelming amount of donations, kindness, and love. We’re going to be in a state of awe and gratitude for the rest of our days! We want to thank all of you who gave us a moment of your time and support. You’ve had an immeasurable effect on our family.

Above and below, Reed with the other cast members.

Artist Reception for Contemplations In Patterns & Textures by Kelly Jean Ohl is November 11 at Kolman & Reeb Gallery

Contemplations In Patterns & Textures by Kelly Jean Ohl

A Kolman & Reeb Gallery Project Space Exhibition

October 28, 2023 – January 6, 2024

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Artist Reception Saturday, November 11, 6:00pm – 8:00pm during the Northrup King Building's highly anticipated fall open studio event, Art Attack.

As we lose ourselves in lives constructed of distractions and uncertainty, master ceramist, Kelly Jean Ohl, dares us to set down the glass we interact with daily and experience the ancient, prehistoric, and most fundamental substance this planet has to offer. By challenging our minds with unique textures and patterns, Ohl believes interacting with her art will ignite within us emotions of cosmic and instinctual origins.

Using haptics and non-language communication, with her show, Contemplations in Patterns and Textures, Ohl exhibits large intricately carved ceramic pieces sure to provide a unique sensory experience. These new pieces were designed specifically for the Kolman & Reeb Gallery using resources provided to her by her Project Space Grant.

The large, abstract clay forms are inspired by and reference the patterns and textures of our living planet. The earth tone colors reflect the most basic origin from which the clay is sourced. Intrigued and inspired by the similarities between microscopic single-cell organisms and macroscopic land formations, these visuals are an endless source of inspiration for Ohl’s work.

"Kelly Jean has been a Kolman & Reeb Gallery artist since we opened," says Anita Sue Kolman, Kolman & Reeb Gallery co-founder and co-partner. "In all those years, we’ve admired the interest and excitement gallery visitors have displayed as they touch and feel Kelly Jean’s highly textured ceramic pieces. With her Project Space Grant show, Kelly Jean has created large-scale pieces that I know viewers will really enjoy seeing and feeling.” 

Jodi Reeb, gallery curator, and co-partner, comments, "So many gallery visitors stop and pick up one of Kelly Jean’s hand carved clay rattles and bowls. I’m so excited to see what people think of her large-scale wall sculptures. Kelly Jean has really outdone herself with this show. It is sure to impress!"

Kelly Jean Ohl received a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Theatre and Art, as well as a Master of Arts degree with an emphasis in ceramics from Minnesota State University at Mankato (advanced education). She also earned a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Michigan. Her work has been featured and sold in over 70 galleries across 25 states. It is also in private collections in all 50 states and internationally. Kelly Jean’s ceramic work can also be found in public and corporate collections in the US and around the world.

Kolman & Reeb Gallery is in Studio 395, Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson Street NE. For more information, please visit kolmanreebgallery.com or call 612-385-4239.