zAmya Theater Project Announces Homeless Network Newz: Season 6

Via an October 7 e-anouncement from zAmya Theater Project:

Virtual performances celebrate creativity and build awareness about housing justice, airing on Facebook and YouTube Live Nov. 4 - Dec. 16

zAmya Theater Project announces the sixth season of Homeless Network Newz, virtual creative performances highlighting stories, experiences and the creative contributions of people who have experienced homelessness. Homeless Network Newz Season 6 will be broadcast on YouTube and Facebook Live weekly on Thursdays at 7PM in November and December, starting November 4. 

zAmya Theater Project builds understanding and connection between people who’ve experienced homelessness and those who have not. zAmya began creating Homeless Network Newz episodes with zAmya troupe members as a way of using storytelling to engage with each other during COVID-19 and create awareness about current issues facing people experiencing homelessness. zAmya aims to inspire people to advocate for short and long term solutions to the housing crisis in Minnesota. Learn more at zamyatheater.org/homeless-network-newz.

Episodes are directed by Esther Ouray and edited by Flo Razowsky. Hosted by Corey Walton, featuring troupe members Robert Blood, Marcia Barnes, Annette Bryant, Marvin Howard, Shannon Kemp, Caroline Mannheimer, Ken Moore, Christina Sayers, Sol Moran Sepulveda, and Tahiti Robinson.

In the first five seasons, zAmya Troupe members and guests shared reflections, interviews with community leaders, ideas, poems, heartfelt stories, hilarious sketches, current events and not-so-recent news (that often reflects the current news), the impact of COVID-19 on the community, police violence, and much more. 

zAmya’s three-year residency on Nicollet Mall sponsored by Hennepin County Library moved online in early 2020, with Homeless Network Newz expanding into virtual workshops and performances, taking the place of in-person workshops and performances that would normally happen at the Minneapolis Central Library.

Homeless Network Newz Season 6 Broadcast Schedule

Episode 1: “The Best of HNN Part 1”
Nov. 4 @ 7:00 PM
Our favorite clips from Seasons 4 and 5. A little dancing, a lot of fun and laughter, a hilarious day at a summer (en)camp(ment), a ridiculous game of Jeopardy, and a few more surprises. Hosted by Corey Walton/ including guest artist Leah Nelson, Zamya troupe members, and friends Michael Walley and Thomas Strapp.  

Episode 2: “The Best of HNN Part 2”
Nov. 11 @ 7:00 PM
A “weather report” on the climate of homelessness, a remembrance of George Floyd, a look at the first Black beauty pageant, youth homelessness, and a child’s point of view. Hosted by Corey Walton, including Zamya troupe members, and friend Christina Sayers, and Christina Woodlee from the Bridge for Youth.

Episode 3: “To Our Health”
Nov. 18 @ 7:00 PM
We dig into mental health and homelessness, diabetes, how some medical professionals are using theater to challenge the system, and art’s innate ability to heal. Hosted by Corey Walton, including Zamya troupe members, our friends from DHomes, and Campaign Against Racism.

Episode 4: “More Questions, Less Answers?”
Dec. 2 @ 7:00 PM
Do you have questions about housing? Unlawful detainers? Tenants’ rights? Where’s the rent party? Or what to do with all these vacant properties? Whose got some answers? Hosted by Corey Walton, including Zamya troupe members, and friends at Dorothy Day and David Jordahl of the CSR Direct Project.

Episode 5: “Home Street Home”
Dec. 9 @ 7:00 PM
A look at Free the Deeds, an art project bringing attention to the Franklin Ave. encampment, felonies, what a second chance is, and how policy can provide it. Hosted by Corey Walton, including Zamya troupe members and our friends at Dorothy Day.

Episode 6: “No one asked me but…”
Dec. 16 @ 7:00 PM
A theatrical reading of Nextdoor Neighbor, a new segment “That Grinds my Gears,” hot and bothered over climate change, the unique challenges faced by unhoused trans youth, what you wouldn’t do for a million dollars….and a surprise from the Zamya archives. Hosted by Corey Walton, including Zamya troupe members, friend Katie Burgess, and the thoughts of some of our neighbors.

Episodes are archived and available for viewing on Facebook, YouTube and zamyatheater.org.

zAmJam! Virtual Creative Workshops

Those interested in participating in the making of HNN episodes are invited to zAmya workshops. zAmya Theater hosts zAmJam! with Zamya in partnership with Hennepin County Library. This series of online workshops is for people who are unhoused, temporarily sheltered and allies who are ready to play! All are invited to participate.

Tuesdays, 2:30pm-4pm
Meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6127604804
Contact Esther with questions at 612-720-4804 or esther@zamyatheater.org.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. 

About zAmya Theater Project

Since 2004 the zAmya Theater Project has been changing hearts and minds through performances and workshops in hundreds of Minnesota locations and with many partners including: Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District, Hennepin Theater Trust, Southwest Minnesota Housing Project, The Guthrie Theater, Edina Reality, Salvation Army, Thrivent Financial, Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Annual Conference, Basilica of St. Mary, Augsburg College, and more.

zAmya Theatre Project believes theater can change the narrative of homelessness. Our performances grow from stories lived by participants and crafted by our core artistic members. We share them because we know that if we want to unravel this crisis then we have to unravel the story. Informed by experienced advocates and direct service providers, zAmya is led by professional artists, and employs a core group of actors who’ve experienced homelessness to create the plays, co-facilitate workshops, and guide the direction of the company.

zAmya is a Sanskrit word that means “aiming at peace.” For zAmya, aiming at peace means aiming toward a community with safe, stable, affordable housing options for all. More info at zamyatheater.org.

DMNA Installs Downtown Neighborhood Signage

The Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association recently announced the installation of Downtown East and Downtown West perimeter signage, as well as the installation of over 130 streetlight banners for the Mill District and the Gateway District. This new signage project is a DMNA initiative, led by community volunteers, and designed by volunteer graphic designer Kendra Jamieson.

State and Vikings Offering Vaccinations, Giveaway at Vikings October 10 Home Game

The State of Minnesota and the Minnesota Vikings are offering free vaccinations, including boosters, for eligible Minnesotans before the Vikings' October 10 home game. No game ticket is required, and walk-ups are welcome.

Minnesotans 18 and older who get vaccinated at the Vikings game pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win Vikings-Bears tickets. The first 50 Minnesotans vaccinated will receive player-autographed mini-helmets.

Location: Plaza next to U.S. Bank Stadium light rail station near Chicago Ave 

Time: 9:30a-Noon 

Vacination: Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer (12 and older)

Find more information about the vaccination event, the giveaway and proof needed to show booster eligibility on the State of Minnesota website.

Ann Bancroft Foundation Calling All Girls Seeking Support to Fund Their Dreams

Editor's Note: This is a follow up to an article from earlier this year: 

On October 4th the Ann Bancroft Foundation (ABF) announced it will extend its 2021 fall grant cycle to October 17, 2021 to give girls more time to apply for grants and to connect with a mentor to develop their application following challenging school and activity starts throughout much of the state. Grants from Ann Bancroft Foundation are open to all Minnesota girls in grades K-12 and designed to give girls the strength to achieve their full potential while building confidence and self-esteem along the way. The goal is to create a community where girls embrace their confidence and show the world what they are made of. Interested applicants can apply at: www.annbancroftfoundation.org

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Calling All Minnesota Girls Seeking Support to Fund Their Dreams

The Ann Bancroft Foundation Fall Grant Cycle Opens Aug.1

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The Ann Bancroft Foundation (ABF) is proud to announce its 2021 fall grant cycle is open August 1 to October 1, 2021. Grants from The Ann Bancroft Foundation are open to all Minnesota girls in grades K-12 and designed to give girls the strength to achieve their full potential while building confidence and self-esteem along the way. The goal is to create a community where girls embrace their confidence and show the world what they are made of.

Starting August 1, applicants can apply at www.annbancroftfoundation.org.

Each grant is an investment of up to $500 per girl. ABF grants have funded a wide range of activities and experiences including sports camps, music lessons, horseback riding, dancing, travel, writing classes and so much more. In addition to the grant, a girl will have access to resources in which she can learn more about herself.

How It Works

Each applicant is guided through the application process by an adult mentor of her choosing. This can be a teacher, coach, family friend, etc. ABF grants are based on several factors including need which can include, but is not limited to financial need, a personal or family challenge and other barriers. A panel of ABF volunteers reviews applications. Grantees from the fall session will be announced in November.

Minnesota girls grades K-12 (including those who identify as cisgender, transgender, gender non-conforming, and gender non-binary people) interested in applying for a grant can learn more here. Link opens for applications on August 1, 2021.

24 Years of Supporting Minnesota Girls

Since 1997, ABF has awarded more than $2 million to 5,200 Minnesota girls in grades K-12. The organization also connects girls to mentors who provide guidance, encouragement and friendship at a critical time in their lives. The grants are investments that have immediate and lasting impact. These grants are about more than giving girls money. For many, it is the first time someone believed in them, heard their dream and took a stand for them. Each ABF grant opens the window to a world of possibly, providing a young Minnesota girl an opportunity she may never thought existed.

The Ann Bancroft Foundation (ABF) inspires and encourages girls to imagine something bigger. ABF strives to build confidence and offer tools that will allow a girl to go after her dreams and feel supported along the way. Through grants, mentorship, and ongoing development opportunities, ABF is giving Minnesota girls strength to achieve their full potential. ABF exemplifies the spirit of explorer and educator, Ann Bancroft, whose leadership and personal and historic achievements have inspired all people to take on new challenges.

Ann Bancroft is one of the world’s preeminent polar explorers and an internationally recognized leader who is dedicated to inspiring women and girls around the world to unleash the power of their dreams. Through her various roles as an explorer, educator, sought-after speaker and philanthropist, Ann believes that by sharing stories related to her dreams of outdoor adventure, she can help inspire a global audience to pursue their individual dreams. Bancroft organized and led the first all-woman expedition to Antarctica, becoming the first-known woman to reach both Poles across the ice. In 2001 Bancroft and Norwegian Liv Arnesen became the first women in history to cross Antarctica’s landmass. 

Preserving Our Parks and Environment

By Elizabeth Shaffer

Spending the summer in our Minneapolis parks, listening to residents, and working together has continued to inspire my decision to run for park commissioner this November.

After my community event in Bassett’s Creek Park, I received a phone call from Carter Casmaer, a Bryn Mawr resident. Carter is an ER doctor who often volunteers his time picking up trash in the neighborhood and parks. Recently Carter became very concerned about solid waste accumulating at long abandoned encampment sites as well as several areas of illegal dumping in Wirth Park which were posing an environmental liability for Bassett’s Creek. He had been working on the removal since fall of 2020 (hauling refuse out himself) and was disappointed in the lack of response from his park commissioner. MPRB staff had been out one time to review the site in the early spring but no action was ever taken.

Carter encouraged me to visit the location. It was alarming (see picture) to see needles and garbage among other trash seeping into the soil for almost a year and endangering the creek. Additionally, we all know letting trash sit encourages more dumping. As I continued to explore the area east of the creek and west of the tracks (that run under Glenwood Ave bridge and towards Utepils Brewing), I also noticed an occupied camper along the tracks and an active encampment on the creek.

On July 27th, MPRB Street Reach team met six community members onsite to assess the situation and together we started to pick up some trash. It was determined MPRB needed to survey the exact property lines between their land and Canadian Pacific Rail to assess how much of the trash we could legally remove. Street Reach staff also engaged with the two men in the tent and camper to connect them with appropriate shelter services. Soon after, MPRB surveyed the site and removed three trash piles, including an illegal dumping area containing tires, refrigerators and multiple propane tanks. This action left only one large trash site on the CP Rail property.

I reached out to Nikol Daniels, Manager of US Real Estate for CP Rail, to arrange a chance to visit the site on August 20th and meet with Carter and several other community members. CP Rail then took a GPS location of the refuse and as a next step set up a meeting with Superintendent Bangora, Park Police Chief Ohotto and other MPRB staff to discuss and finalize removal.

Small, committed communities of people can work together and drive positive change. I have had the privilege to meet many of them this summer, people like Anna Peterson and Ryan Atwell’s buckthorn team in Bassett’s Creek Park, Robert Skafte and company at Stevens Square Overlook Garden, the Seven Pools team in Lowry Hill, David Crary and team for opening river views along the parkway due to invasive removal, Steve Kotvis and team on west Cedar Lake and Will Stensrud, Angie Erdrich, Keith Prussing and team on east Cedar Lake, Claudia Callaghan and Soo Line Garden team working to protect their acre of paradise, Elliot and Nancy Gross from East Isles cleaning graffiti around Lake of the Isles and of course Carter, to name a few.

Elizabeth Shaffer is a candidate for the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board 4th District. Visit her website at https://www.elizabethforparks.org/

A Brief History of the University of St. Thomas

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

The 2021-2022 school year is the beginning of a new era at the University of St. Thomas. For the first time in their 136-year history, the Tommies will participate in Division I of the NCAA in all sports. This unprecedented jump from Division III to I has put the spotlight on my alma mater, so let’s take a look at how St. Thomas became the university it is today.

A 1886 print of the original building that previously housed the Catholic Industrial Boys School.

Starting with the history of the land, in 1805, the first governor of the Louisiana Territory, James Wilkinson, ordered Lieutenant Zebulon Pike to lead an expedition up the Mississippi River to explore the upper region of this new territory. Keep in mind that Wilkinson never informed the United States government of this expedition. Departing from St. Louis on August 9th, the expedition crew arrived at Bdote, the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers, on September 21st. Here, Lt. Pike negotiated a treaty with seven Dakota leaders to acquire the land from Bdote up to Owamni, also known as St. Anthony Falls, as well as land around the confluence of the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers, a total of over 150,000 acres. Only two of the seven Dakota leaders signed the treaty, and since the U.S. government was never aware of the expedition, the treaty was illegal. In fact, in 1856, the Military Affairs Committee of the Senate noted in a report,

“It does appear that General Pike made an arrangement in 1805 with two Sioux Indians for the purchase of the lands of that tribe, including the Faribault island, but there is no evidence that this agreement, to which there is not even a witness, and in which no consideration was named, was ever considered binding upon the Indians, or that they ever yielded up the possession of their lands under it… It was never promulgated, nor can it be now found upon the statute books, like any other treaty—if indeed a treaty it may be called—nor were its stipulations ever complied with on the part of the United States.”

Nonetheless, the land that was included in the “treaty” was turned into a military reservation once Fort Snelling was established in 1819.

Almost thirty years later in 1848, William Finn, a veteran of the Mexican-American War and the namesake of Finn Street, was awarded a portion of this land; 640 acres along the east side of the Mississippi River, from modern-day Marshall Avenue to St. Clair Avenue and from Fairview Avenue to the river. This soon became known as Finn’s Farm, and in 1874, Bishop Thomas Grace of Saint Paul purchased 452 acres from Finn and established the Catholic Industrial School for boys whose family lives were disrupted by the Civil War.

In the 1880s, Archbishop John Ireland made it a priority to establish a Catholic seminary, a college that prepares students to become priests, in order to help assimilate the many new Catholic immigrants to the American way of life. The Diocese of St. Paul, known as the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis since 1966, renovated the old Catholic Industrial School and on September 8th, 1885, the St. Thomas Seminary opened its doors. This new school consisted of a high school, college, and seminary, and had a rector, five professors, who were also priests, and sixty-two students.

One of the first sporting events to happen at St. Thomas was a baseball game. The college fielded a team called the Shadow Falls Base Ball Club in 1886, named after the waterfall that empties into the Mississippi River right by the campus. The team joined the Minnesota Athletic Conference in 1902 and won the inaugural championship.

Lake Mennith, 1907

During the early years of the campus, students could be seen sailing, and skating during the winter months, on a human-made pond known as Lake Mennith. It was created in 1887 when the school dammed a creek and wetland that went through the middle of campus. Lake Mennith was filled in when the City of Saint Paul installed a sewer line through campus in 1910.

In 1894, the liberal arts college was founded thanks to a donation by James J. Hill to establish the Saint Paul Seminary School of Divinity separately from the college. The funds were used to create multiple different buildings, including two dormitories, Loras and Cretin halls, a dining hall, library, chapel, and gymnasium and power plant. The architect in charge of the seminary’s new campus was Cass Gilbert, who also designed our State Capitol Building and the United States Supreme Court Building. Two of these structures still stand and many have been replaced.

St. Thomas campus, 1930

The most recent of these original buildings to be demolished is Loras Hall. This building was used for offices for the last years of its life and was razed this past spring to make way for a new STEAM building (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). The original plan was for Loras Hall to be moved to the west a few dozen feet, but that plan fell through. The Saint Paul Historic Preservation Committee voted 6-1 to deny the university a demolition permit. However, after an appeal to the city council, the council voted 6-1 to allow demolition. This was quite heartbreaking and frustrating to see as someone who studied history and architecture at the university. Methods and theories of historic preservation that I was taught seemed to be ignored and not practiced by the university, ignoring the historic preservation committee’s ruling. I do look forward to touring the new STEAM building when it is completed in the coming decade.

One of the more famous buildings on St. Thomas’ campus is the chapel. Initially, services were held in the basement of the old administrative building, but as the student body population was growing, so was the need for a larger, separate space to worship. During the turn of the twentieth century, Archbishop Ireland was searching for a location for a new, much larger cathedral for the diocese, and he heavily considered a site across Cleveland Avenue from the college’s campus, where Laurel Flats Apartments now stand. He ended up going with the cathedral’s current location, at Summit and Selby avenues, and the college was still needing a larger place to worship.

The first chapel was constructed in 1907, but this wooden structure quickly became too small for the college. It was torn down in 1917 and was replaced with the current chapel, designed by Emmanuel Masqueray, the same architect who also designed the Cathedral of Saint Paul and Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis.

Aerial photo of the campus in 1971 with downtown Minneapolis in the background to the left.

Archbishop Ireland and college president Reverend Humphry Moynihan worked to establish St. Thomas as a military school in the early 1900s, and in 1905, they had a contract with the U.S. War Department to start that process. The college was designated as a military academy in 1907, and the next year, it ranked in the top ten of all military academies in the nation. Military training was required for all students until 1922 when students were allowed to opt out of the training. Students who joined the college from its high school, St. Thomas Academy, were still required to participate in training.

St. Thomas started its first graduate program in 1950, education, and its second in 1974, business administration. In 1977, they became co-educational, and in 1990, St. Thomas College changed its name to the University of St. Thomas. In 1991, they opened their downtown Minneapolis campus, and ten years later in 2001, their School of Law moved to that location.

Photo of Loras Hall taken in 2020 by Casey Eakins of Tommie Media.

The University of St. Thomas has a long, storied past, and their future looks brighter than ever, becoming just the second school in Minnesota to participate in Division I athletics in all sports. The university is growing in every sense, and I couldn’t be prouder to be a Tommie. Roll Toms!

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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

Tap, Transcending: The 7th Annual Twin Cities Tap Festival Expands Notions of the Dance Form

Via a recent e-announcement:

Jumaane Taylor by Christopher Duggan

The Twin Cities Tap Festival  is co-presented by The Cowles Center and Northrop

The Twin Cities Tap Festival (TCTF) returns to The Cowles Center from October 21 – 23 to shine a spotlight on the ever-changing art of tap dance. This year’s Showcase (October 21) and Concerts (October 22 & 23) bring the best local and national tap artists to stage. The TCTF Concerts feature Jumaane Taylor and Max Pollak who each explore narratives led by music—the former with John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme and the latter combining percussive dance, singing and Afro-Cuban body percussion. In-person and livestream tickets range from $20-$35.

“It’s an honor to be able to share the Twin Cities Tap Festival from the Goodale Stage again this year,” shares Joseph Bingham, Co-director of The Cowles Center, “Not only are we excited to showcase the festival’s talent and a fresh partnership with Northrop, but it feels like a hopeful return to something even better than ‘normal.’”

The TCTF Showcase kicks off the festival on Thursday, October 21 from 7:30 – 9:30 PM. It will feature phenomenal local emerging tap artists, including this year’s Elite Tap Feet (a troupe of teen dancers). 

The TCTF Concerts take place on Friday, October 22 and Saturday, October 23, also from 7:30 – 9:30 PM. Artists featured include national artists Jumaane Taylor, Max Pollak, Ian Berg, Star Dixon, and Donnetta “LilBit” Jackson along with local tap artists. Jumaane Taylor’s work, Supreme Love, honors the John Coltrane album “A Love Supreme” and displays the spiritual, artistic and historical values that infuse human life, using a symbol of nature to transcend hope. Max Pollak will perform unaccompanied for his solo work All in One that outlines his artistic evolution and creates music only using the artist’s body. 

The Showcase and Concerts are available in-person and via livestream. Learn more and purchase tickets at thecowlescenter.org/TCTF21.

HEALTH & SAFETY AT THE COWLES CENTER

Masks are required at all times in The Cowles Center’s hallways, common/shared spaces, and theaters. Anyone attending an event or performance in our theaters (the Goodale Theater & TEK BOX) will need to show proof of a full course of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to entry. 

We respectfully ask that anyone who is feeling ill or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to please stay home. Please visit thecowlescenter.org/visit to review our full health & safety information.

ABOUT TWIN CITIES TAP FESTIVAL

The Twin Cities Tap Festival celebrates the incredible breadth, depth, and artistry of the ever-evolving American art of tap dance. The Festival provides opportunities for dancers of all ages and abilities to participate in classes, workshops, and performances all centered around enhancing technique, expanding creativity, and experiencing this uniquely American art form. We aim to foster learning, inspiration, and innovation as well as provide a venue to showcase tap artists, companies, and choreographers.

ABOUT NORTHROP

Rooted in the belief that the arts are essential to the human experience, Northop is committed to cultivating intersections between performing arts and education for the benefit of all participants now and for generations to come.

ABOUT THE COWLES CENTER

The Cowles Center is a dance and performing arts hub that promotes movement and growth for artists through supportive programs and spaces; engages audiences through dynamic performances; and educates learners of all ages through robust and inclusive education initiatives.

Small Business Spotlight: Studio ME Fitness

Article by Becky Fillinger

Megan CooperAnother ribbon cutting – this time for a grand reopening in a new location! Studio ME Fitness officially opens their new location at Nordhaus, 305 1st Avenue NE, 11:30 AM on October 6th. We spoke to owner, Megan Cooper, about the concept of the business and the different ways to become healthier under her studio’s care.

Q:  Please tell us about the concept for Studio ME Fitness.  

A:  At Studio ME Fitness we know that everyone's journey is unique and your training should be too. Whether you are in our small group or private 1-on-1 training programs, you will receive the structure, accountability, personalized attention and custom training program you need to finally get results and live your best life. You'll never get lost in the crowd or wonder what to do. You will have a dedicated coach with you every step of the way. We opened in 2014, and are celebrating relocating and 7 years in business on October 6th.

Q:  You had many career years as a nonprofit executive. What was the catalyst to leave that to open your fitness business?

A:  I was active my entire life - a tri-sport athlete in high school and played D2 collegiate tennis. Once college was over, I really missed the team aspect and structure that came with it. As I started my career in the health field, something was missing. I started moving up the corporate ladder and stress started to get the best of me, so I found a small studio that re-ignited my passion for exercise and moving my body. Fitness then became my outlet when my older sister was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer, at 26 years old. In order for me to be able to show up for my family the way they needed me, I needed to take care of myself. That's when I realized the power of fitness and having a fitness family. That one hour I could spend not thinking about my sister and the possible outcome, was an hour that let me relax, relieve stress, and be me. I soon started teaching group fitness classes and starting filling my resume with every certification I could. I started to see a huge gap in the fitness scene in Minneapolis and that's when Studio ME was born. We opened our doors in the Historic St Anthony Main building in October 2014. 

It really started as a hobby with a dream to make it a full-time job. I was still working at Be The Match at the time. Balancing both running a business and being in a strategic position at the nonprofit was challenging. After two years of doing both and burning the candle at both ends, I finally decided it was time to take the leap and go all in on what I knew Studio ME could become.

COVID-19 has forced us to think outside the box and pivot our business model, which led us to relocate to the NordHaus retail space - a move that happened probably 2-3 years prior to our plans. We knew we had to change and it forced us to look hard at how we best serve our clients. Staying in our old space was no longer who we were or where we wanted to go.

Q:  Will you offer opening promotions?

A:  Yes! We have three promotions: 

The ELITE 10 program

- Pay in full for 6 months and get 1 month of training free. 

- Pay in full for 12 months and get two free months of training. 

- BOGO 1/2 of our ME12 Transformation program: 12 weeks of 5 days/week of training + plus a two-phased nutrition program.

Q:  What do you want Mill City Times readers to know about your small business?

A:  We aren't just another gym or place to work out. We are a community. That's what our space and membership is all about. We want to help people live their best lives. It's not about a number on the scale or how much you can lift. It's about getting stronger, getting out of pain, loving yourself, and living your best life. We sit down with you, learn your goals, and make a plan to achieve them - together! We offer programs:

1. Private Training - For those just getting back into fitness, maybe have some injuries or restrictions, have a specific goal in mind, or just like the 1-on-1 attention.

2. Semi-Private - For those who like to work out in a group but have specific goals or needs.

3. Small Group Training - For those that need the energy from a group and are looking for more structured group workouts. This person likely doesn’t have any restrictions or limitations and is looking to get back into fitness safely.

4. ME12 - 12-week transformation program that is guaranteed to transform your body and get you results. 

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  We hope to see you at the ribbon cutting! Then, please do follow us at studiomefitness.com, Facebook, Instagram or our Blog.

September 2021 by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Overview

Via an October 1 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department will be 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 in Summer of 2023.

The new tunnel will be 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 will be 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

• The east lane of 4th Ave S between 3rd St S and Washington Ave will be temporarily closed starting at 7 a.m. on Monday, October 4. This closure is needed to install a temporary dewatering well. This work is anticipated to take 2-3 weeks to complete.
  • The sidewalk on the east side of 4th Ave S will be temporarily closed while the well is being installed. Pedestrians will be able to use the sidewalk on the west side of 4th Ave S. 
  • The crosswalk at the Washington Ave and 4th Ave intersection will remain open. 
  • Access to driveways off 4th Ave S will remain open. There may be short-term delays while crews move equipment and materials around the area. 
    
    
• There will be an overnight closure of 2nd Ave S between Washington Ave and 2nd St from 7 p.m. Thursday, October 7 to 6 a.m. Friday, October 8. This closure is needed to lay pipe across the road. Access to properties off 2nd Ave S will be maintained. 
  • The week of October 11, traffic on 2nd Ave S will switch to a single lane in each direction using the northbound lanes between Washington Avenue and 1st St S. 
  • Access to driveways off 2nd Ave S will remain open. There may be short-term access delays while switching traffic.
    
    
• Work will soon begin near the Washington Ave and Hennepin Ave intersection. Starting at 7 a.m. on Monday, October 4, the north sidewalk along Washington Ave will be closed between Hennepin Ave and Nicollet Mall. The contractor will be utilizing an existing shaft to perform work for connecting the existing tunnel to the new tunnel. This sidewalk will reopen in spring 2022. 
  • During this work, pedestrians will share the bike lane on Washington Ave.
  • The crosswalks at the Washington Ave intersections of Nicollet Mall and Hennepin Ave will remain open.
    
    
• Work continues at the Mississippi River portal site. Crews are working on removing a retaining wall in preparation of the excavation work that will begin in mid-October.
  • The parking lot off Portland Ave east of the Stone Arch Bridge, near the Mill Ruins Park, is temporarily closed for 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.

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

Immersive Van Gogh Artist in Residence: Jeff Gauss

Article and photos by Becky Fillinger

You’ve seen the Facebook posts from friends who have visited the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit in Minneapolis. You’ve read the news stories about how the exhibit induces a sense of tranquility and is stunningly beautiful. Don’t stop reading – there’s more!

Jeff Gauss, Artist in Residence for Immersive Van Gogh Minneapolis

The Immersive Van Gogh program sponsors Artists in Residence at their installations. So far, they have awarded 21 residencies in four cities (San Francisco, Charlotte, New York and Minneapolis), and are launching the program in Las Vegas and Cleveland in the coming weeks with two additional artists – a total of 23 artists to date.  

Jeff Gauss is the first Artist in Residence for Immersive Van Gogh Minneapolis. I met with Jeff to discuss what the selection has meant for him.

Q:  You’ve been a professional artist for over 25 years. How many pieces have you produced? 

A:  At this point, it is somewhere in the neighborhood of 59,700 magnetic pieces, micro-doodling drawings and paintings. In addition to producing art, I’ve also taught art classes and workshops throughout my career.

Multidimensional magnets

Micro-doodling

Q:  What has it meant to you to be chosen as the first Artist in Residence at the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit?

A:  It has truly given me a rebirth. The last two years have been difficult - my mom died of Alzheimer’s disease, I lost my house, and the building where my studio was based was looted during the Uptown unrest.  This opportunity has allowed me to be in front of people again doing what I love – creating art. Van Gogh suffered from depression too. I have not experienced the levels I imagine he did – I haven’t tried absinthe! – but I can still relate. I so enjoy being around people every day who love art and appreciate what he created.  This opportunity has also allowed me to show my art to children again. When the pandemic began, I got my CDL license to drive school busses – I loved being around children that much. Then the schools shut down.  Children understand that art can be tactile more than adults. My magnetic art is multidimensional – I really like it when children call their parent’s back to appreciate something they walked by without noticing. The designation as artist in residence validates my work as an artist. 

Q:  What’s next for you?

A:  So many things are on the horizon for me – I need to move my store and studio, prepare for the holiday season and next summer’s shows. I have two children’s books I’m working on at this time. I have started streaming my creative work at the suggestion of exhibit attendees. One of my TikTok videos went viral! I’m also interested in NFTs – non-fungible tokens. Could my magnetic art be an NFT? Or a functioning token?  I’m also preparing for ArtPrize 2022. And I want to teach so many classes!  

Q:  How many we follow your news? 

A:  Many social media channels - Personal Facebook and Business Facebook, TikTok,  Instagram and Twitter – follow me!

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Know someone who might like to be the next artist in residence? Immersive Van Gogh is accepting additional applications through October:  https://lighthouseimmersive.slideroom.com/#/login/program/61210. 

Canopy by Hilton and Out of the Box Opera present Hello Italy!, October 14-16

Canopy and Out of the Box Opera present “Hello Italy!“

Out of the Box Opera will present HELLO ITALY, the third in its series of unique interactive entertainments at the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District Hotel, 708 Third Street S, on October 14, 15 and 16 (shows at 6:00p, 7:00p and 8:00p). The three-night stand will include an immersive opera experience featuring Italian classics presented by Out of the Box and a specially curated Italian menu from Umbra.

Out of the Box Artistic Director David Lefkowich says: “Italian opera is the heart and soul of what opera is all about. It features big emotions – love, loss, jealousy, and hate – all expressed through rich, evocative music. You don’t need subtitles to know what is going on in the classic operas. Just listen to the singing and it is all right there.” The show will feature pieces from the great composers – Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, Rossini – and great shows – La Traviata, La Boheme, Lucia and Barber of Seville. Lefkowich adds: “The music in this show is what puts the “grand” in “grand opera.”

Umbra’s award-winning Executive Chef, Kevin Aho, has curated a menu of delectable Italian favorites exclusively for the three nights of Hello Italy performances. Each of the four entrees including Osso Buco, Frutti de Mare, Gnocchi and Braised Ragu, and Pasta Arrabiata are served with warm bread, choice of salad, House Panna Cotta dessert and a glass of wine. Visit their website to reserve your table, Umbrampls.com.

Musical Director and accompanist Carson Rose Schneider says, “Our cast features singers who have performed locally and nationally and are all alumni of Out of The Box productions.” Soprano Siena Forest has sung everything with Out of The Box from a contestant in Diva Cage Match to the lead in The Amazing Adventures of Acis and Galatea the Wonder Nymph and will star as Mimi in the upcoming production of La Boheme at Theater Latte Da. Tenor David Walton has performed with Out of The Box in Acis and Galatea and appeared locally with Minnesota Opera and Minnesota Bach Ensemble and nationally with Virginia Opera, Opera Carolina and Glimmerglass Festival. Rounding out the cast is tenor Brian Wallin who sang in the very first Out of The Box show at the Weisman Art Museum in 2017 and has performed with Minnesota Opera, Glimmerglass Festival, Atlanta Opera, and Opera National de Bordeaux.

The show is a non-ticketed event. A dinner reservation at Canopy’s Umbra restaurant 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).

Out of The Box will wrap up its 2021 series at the Canopy on December 17 and 18, when an all male cast presents a holiday themed “tenor extravaganza.” Lefkowich says, “This show will both fill you with cheer and knock your socks off!”

Small Business Spotlight: Slice Inc.

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Adam Kado’s new pizza restaurant Slice Inc. officially opens Saturday, October 2 at 1PM. Come by 519 E Hennepin Ave for the ribbon cutting ceremony and welcome another small business to NE Minneapolis! We talked to Adam about the concept for Slice and balancing his professional activities – he’s a busy man!

Adam Kado, right, with partner Hosie Thurmond on the left.

Q:  Tell us about the concept for your new pizza restaurant. 

A:  Our concept for Slice is take-out and delivery New York style pizza in slices and whole pies. We want to take an innovative approach in service to our customers, so we will be utilizing a service window to decrease interaction and increase efficiency. We have also invested a lot in our online ordering system so people will be able to place an order online and pick it up in person. (The website won’t be live until Friday, October 1, but here is a sneak peak.) 

Q:  Will you have daily specials? 

A:  We will not have an extensive menu. We want to make sure everything on our menus tastes good and is a classic. We will, however, try new specials every now and then, and based off what the people crave we will supply.  

Q:  You’re the son of an immigrant from Kenya. How do you describe your American dream?

A:  For me, the American dream is freedom and ownership. My father was an entrepreneur and although he didn’t make a lot of money, he took pride in the fact that as an immigrant he owned his own business. To our family, that was priceless. I hope that one day when I have children and it comes time for them to provide, they can start with positions in our respective family businesses. For me that would be a dream come true. 

Q:  Please tell us about your involvement with the Timberwolves and Lynx teams. Will you transition fully to your restaurant business? 

A:  As far as my transition to the pizza industry, it was actually my first job when I was 16 years old working at Papa John's as an in-store worker. I still remember working 30 hours a week at Papa John's in high school while simultaneously playing varsity basketball. I went on to play and coach college basketball and also played 2 years professionally in Europe. Today I work with the Timberwolves and Lynx basketball academy and also own a basketball player development and consulting business. I think it’s important for current and former athletes to develop other life skills outside of athletics, and that’s what inspired me and my partners to start up Slice. 

Q:  What do you want Mill City Times readers to know about your restaurant? 

A:  We want the Mill City Times readers to know we are excited to provide an affordable eating solution that not only tastes good, is prepared fast, but is also made with quality ingredients. We also couldn’t be prouder to service this Northeast Minneapolis community. We have here such a beautiful diverse blend of Millennial, Generation X and Generation Z (even Boomers) that we feel our restaurant is curated to the neighborhood we will be calling home. We have already received numerous letters, calls and messages of support from the whole community and we really can’t thank them enough for their support. 

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  Please follow our social media channels - Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

17th Annual Historic Riverfront 5K Run/Walk to Benefit Neighborhood Parks and Activities in the St Anthony West Neighborhood

The 17th Annual Historic Riverfront 5K Run/Walk will take you through historic Northeast Minneapolis, along the Mississippi River and over the Stone Arch Bridge. This is the perfect time of year to see the fall colors and the beauty of the tree canopy, river, and cityscape. The race starts/ends at Boom Island Park (700 Sibley Street NE). Let Kramarczuk's treat you to their famous brats and enjoy some snacks at the finish line!

Whether you participate as a timed chip runner or take a casual walk with your dog or baby stroller, this is a route that everyone enjoys!

Proceeds benefit neighborhood parks and activities in the St. Anthony West Neighborhood, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Minneapolis, which includes the beautiful Boom Island, BF Nelson, and Dickman parks. Learn more at stawno.org.

Event details and schedule:
- Start/End at Boom Island - 700 Sibley Street NE, Minneapolis
- Start time at 9am, Saturday, Oct 9th (check-in starts at 7:30am)
- Early check-in available on Friday, Oct 8th, 4-6pm at Mill City Running
- Historic Riverfront 5k Stocking Cap included in registration
- Prizes for top winners in male/female, 65+, and 18 and under and drawings for all participants
- Enjoy Kramarczuk's brats hot off the grill at the end of the race.
- Chip timed for accuracy and running enjoyment. Limited parking in parking lot w/in Boom Island, additional parking available on side streets.

Pricing:
Now to October 5 - $30
October 9 Race Day Registration - $40

Register Here: https://www.active.com/minneapolis-mn/running/distance-running-races/historic-riverfront-5k-run-walk-2021

Volunteer Here: https://signup.com/go/hanMyue

Raising Ollie: How My Nonbinary Art-Nerd Kid Changed (Nearly) Everything I Know, Open House Book Launch with Minnesota Author Tom Rademacher

Via a recent press release from University of Minnesota Press

826 MSP, Transforming Families Minnesota, and the University of Minnesota Press will host an open house meet-and-greet book launch event for Raising Ollie: How My Non-Binary Art-Nerd Kid Changed (Nearly) Everything I Know by Minnesota author Tom Rademacher on Tuesday, October 12 at 826 MSP, 1915 E 22nd Street. Raising Ollie, the newest book from author of It Won't Be Easy, is the account of one radically new school year for a Teacher of the Year and for his nonbinary, art-obsessed, brilliant child.

Seven-year-old Ollie was researching local advanced school programs—because every second grader does that, right? Ollie, who used to hate weekends because they meant no school, was crying on the way to school almost every day. Sure, there were the slings and arrows of bullies and bad teachers, but, maybe worse, Ollie, a funny, anxious, smart kid with a thing for choir and an eye for graphic art, was gravely underchallenged and also struggling with identity and how to live totally as themselves. Ollie begged to switch to a new school with “kids like me,” where they wouldn’t feel so alone, or so bored, and so they made the change.

Tom RademacherRaising Ollie is dad Tom Rademacher’s story (really, many stories) of that eventful and sometimes painful school year, parenting Ollie and relearning every day what it means to be a father and teacher. As Ollie—who is nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, and prefers art to athletics, vegetables to cake, and animals to most humans—flourishes in their new school, Rademacher is making an eye-opening adjustment to a new school of his own, one that’s whiter and more suburban than anywhere he has previously taught, with a history of racial tension that he tries to address and navigate.

While Ollie is learning to code, 3D model, animate, speak Japanese, and finally feel comfortable at school, Rademacher increasingly sees how his own educational struggles, anxieties, and childhood upbringing are reflected in his teaching, writing, and parenting, as well as in Ollie’s experience. And with this story of one anything-but-academic year of inquiry and wonder, doubt and revelation, he shows us how raising a kid changes everything—and how much raising a kid like Ollie can teach us about who we are and what we’re doing in the world.

Tom Rademacher is an eighth grade English teacher in the Minneapolis area. His book It Won’t Be Easy: An Exceedingly Honest (and Slightly Unprofessional) Love Letter to Teaching (Minnesota, 2017) was a finalist for a Minnesota Book Award. His writing has been published in Education Post, City Pages, MinnPost, and Huffington Post. In 2014 he was honored as Minnesota’s Teacher of the Year.

The event is free and open to the public. Masks are required for entry. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase. 

Sherman Associates hosts Downtown Advocate Service Saturday, October 2nd

Via a September 24 e-announcement from Sherman Associates:

Join us to support your unsheltered neighbors at the Downtown Advocate Service Saturday on October 2nd from 1pm to 4pm at 205 Bark, the public dog park located next to The Vicinity, 205 Park Avenue.

Service Saturday will be a day for residents in the East Town and Mill District neighborhoods to gather together to help the homeless community and lend a hand in cleaning up the neighborhood.

Listen or join in the conversation with guest speakers on topics of awareness, volunteerism, and experiences centered around homelessness. Volunteers will assemble care packages and make fleece tie blankets for residents experiencing unsheltered homelessness within the community. Additionally, volunteers will receive garbage pick-up supplies to clean up around the neighborhood.

Guest speakers include Emily Bastian from Avivo Village, a volunteer from Supply Depot, and a person with lived experience of unsheltered homelessness.

All volunteers will receive a discounted drink ticket to W XYZ Bar in the Aloft Minneapolis Hotel and a $5 off voucher to Bacon Social House.

Please register here to volunteer: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/downtown-advocate-service-saturday-tickets-178824507917.

CenterPoint Energy Pollinator Gardens

On September 23rd CenterPoint Energy employees and volunteers from the Great River Coalition planted downtown pollinator gardens featuring native flowers, plants and grasses that offer a critical habitat for bees, butterflies and other pollinator insects. Great River Greening is CenterPoint Energy’s nonprofit partner in creating and managing the pollinator gardens. Information about the pollinator gardens is available at www.CenterPointEnergy.com/MNpollinators.

Mill District resident Rick Kittock captured the following photos from the event:

* Thank you to everyone involved with the project! *

Walking the Beam at the ELEVEN

Submitted by Mill District Resident Ric Rosow

With the exterior of the ELEVEN almost complete, the last of two construction cranes on site is being removed. It is a harrowing task as construction workers labor more than 35 stories up to take down sections of the crane. Yes, the workers are tethered to a safety harness. Nevertheless, to walk across that beam takes a lot of skill, fortitude and courage. Oh did I mention, the wind was so strong this day that my telephoto lens shook even with the camera clamped into a stable tripod. To avoid ending up with blurred images, I switched to a shorter lens so that it was not so severely shaken by the wind. I can’t imagine how strong the wind blew through that crane. You can see more of my work at www.ricrosowphotography.com.

Owámni Falling Water Festival - October 9, 1-5 pm

Via a September 24 e-announcement from Minnepolis Park and Rec Board:

Owámni Falling Water Festival will be held on Saturday, October 9 from 1 to 5 pm

Join us on Saturday, October 9, from 1 – 5 p.m. at Father Hennepin Bluff Park (420 SE Main St, Minneapolis, MN) and at the NEW Water Works Park (333 1st Street S., Minneapolis 55401) for the Owámni: Falling Water Festival, a celebration of indigenous Minnesota cultures, Owámni is what the Dakota called the area at St. Anthony Falls. It means, “whirling or falling water” in the Dakota language, making it an appropriate name for this festival along the Mississippi River.

This free, family-friendly event, co-presented by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the St Anthony Falls Heritage Board, celebrates indigenous Minnesota culture with music, art, food, and more! Enjoy the many event offerings with the opportunity to learn more about artifacts from the Minnesota History Center’s collection; picnic in the park with Native foods from Owamni by the Sioux Chef and other food vendors.

Art

An arts area focused on Native contemporary traditional and fine arts will showcase the talents of indigenous visual artists. Jewelry and native art will be available for purchase. Hands on art opportunities will also be available.

Music and Entertainment

The Owámni Falling Water Festival will celebrate indigenous voices, connecting both locally and nationally through music featuring Tufawon, Buffalo Weavers, and comedian Rez Reporter.

Food

Pow-Wow Grounds and Owamni by the Sioux Chef will be making and selling local indigenous foods.  NATIFS- North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems will be providing Native Food Education and information.   

This event is made possible by a grant from the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Board. Event partners include the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and Minnesota Historical Society.

Celebrating James Sewell Ballet’s 30th Anniversary - One Year Later - at The Cowles Center

Via a September 23 Press Release:

James Sewell Ballet’s 30th Anniversary Retrospective delights in past company favorites while bringing new contemporary ballet work by Resident Choreographer Da’Rius Malone to The Cowles Center on October 16 and 17. The production celebrates James Sewell Ballet’s (JSB) 30th anniversary a year and a half after the coronavirus pandemic shuttered the company’s commemorative tour. Audiences can see the magic during an in-person or livestreamed performance from the Goodale Stage. Tickets range $20 - $35, fees included.

Eve Schulte, JSB’s Executive Director, shares: “We made it to six of our planned 2020 tour locations before lockdown. Our final performance before entering the void of COVID was March 13, 2020, in St. Cloud, with a cheerful and immediately distanced audience in the beautiful Paramount Center for the Arts. The past 18-plus months have changed us in so many ways, and the program has evolved to highlight both joy and catharsis, including an exciting new premiere from company member Da’Rius Malone.” 

The company is known for its distinct and compelling choreographic voice capable of producing cutting-edge productions which combine theatricality with grace and expanding notions of what ballet could or should be.

James Sewell Ballet’s 30th Anniversary Retrospective will be anchored with Made in America, a work from 2000 that pays homage to some of the vast history of American music and musical culture, a fitting end for an evening whose themes explore reflection, remembrance, and the passage of time. Da’Rius Malone’s work, /kənˈsəm(p)SH(ə)n/, explores the “anger and frustration” which came with the combined grief from the pandemic and police brutality in the recent past. Malone was recently announced as JSB’s inaugural Resident Choreographer, a promotion you can read about on jsballet.org/press. Live music will accompany select works throughout the evening.

JSB will offer a Meet the Artist Q&A for all attendees after the Sunday, October 17 matinee performance. Other community engagements are pending. Learn more and purchase tickets.

HEALTH & SAFETY AT THE COWLES CENTER

Masks are required at all times in The Cowles Center’s hallways, common/shared spaces, and theaters. Anyone attending an event or performance in our theaters (the Goodale Theater & TEK BOX) will need to show proof of a full course of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours prior to entry. We respectfully ask that anyone who is feeling ill or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to please stay home. Please visit thecowlescenter.org/visit to review our full health & safety information. 

ABOUT JAMES SEWELL BALLET

James Sewell Ballet was founded in New York City by James Sewell and Sally Rousse and brought to Minnesota in 1993. Combining their expertise, vision, and chutzpah, James and Sally envisioned a close-knit company of dance artists willing to challenge their physical limits and expand their notions about ballet. Decades later, the embodiment of the original vision is a professional company of dancers performing innovative work that explores the technical boundaries of ballet.

ABOUT THE COWLES CENTER

The Cowles Center is a dance and performing arts hub that promotes movement and growth for artists through supportive programs and spaces; engages audiences through dynamic performances; and educates learners of all ages through robust and inclusive education initiatives.