Moon, Venus and Capella by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

A View of the Moon, Venus and Capella from the Mill City District

This is a composite of two photographs taken seconds apart. The Moon and Venus were on opposite sides of Capella. I zoomed in on Capella to see whether either would remain in the frame. Venus remained visible but the Moon did not. To get both in the same image I zoomed out for a much wider view. That, however, did nothing to highlight Capella, as the Moon was very small and Venus was hardly visible. So I zoomed in on the Moon and took that shot. Then I rotated the camera  and adjusted the focal length to capture as much of Capella as possible while keeping Venus in the composition.

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In post-processing I blended the two layers together to reveal the Moon in the layer with Capella and Venus. Next I colorized the Capella building’s exterior with colors that were present in the image to a much smaller extent. AI was not used to create the scene, just my NI (native intelligence). I’ve printed this photograph on cotton so that it can be framed and hung on a wall or used as a table runner. The Fireworks artist in our Price Krishnan Gallery saw the table runner version and ordered the image to be printed on aluminum. Given the colorful art she creates using only fireworks, I am not surprised she likes this colorful work of art.

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You can see more of my work at ricrosowphotography.com and pricekrishnangallery.com.

Register Now to Save $5 off the April 19 Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk!

Great River Coalition has announced their 10th Annual Earth Day 5K Bee Run/Walk/River Cleanup at Boom Island Park, and to show you a little love they are offering $5 off of registration when you use the code BEEMINE25. Register here: https://register.chronotrack.com/r/81795.

This is a family-friendly event hosted by:

• Great River Coalition

• Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board 

• The National Park Service

• Mill City Running/St. City Running

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Dogs are welcome, costumes are welcome (prizes for the best - name your team!). Help save our bees and pollinators and their habitat by participating in this national movement!

Puppy Cuddle Time at the Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center, Feb 13

The Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center invites the public to a special Puppy Cuddle featuring adorable, adoptable puppies from a local animal rescue organization. From 11:30am to 1pm on Thursday, February 13, attendees can enjoy stress-relieving cuddles, learn about adoption opportunities, and support a great cause. A $5 donation is suggested to support Healing Hearts Rescue. Cash, credit and Venmo accepted, with 100% of donations going to Healing Hearts Rescue.

The Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center is located at 505 Nicollet Mall, Suite 100, directly across from the Nicollet Light Rail Station.

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.

 

Minneapolis Premiere of “This Is Not A Dream” at Ukrainian American Feb 14-15 Community Center

Nine plays present a variety of views into the daily life of people in or from Ukraine today

The Lex-Ham Community Theater of St. Paul, in partnership with the Ukrainian American Community Center, will be presenting a staged reading of "This Is Not A Dream" – a set of short plays written by nine contemporary playwrights from Ukraine about their life during the current Russian invasion and war there. 

The playwrights, known as Young Playwrights Ukraine, founded by New York-based writer Laura Cahill, are young authors - some of whom are still in Ukraine, while others are displaced.

The authors include Anna Brovarna, Anastasia Chala, Taya Fedorrenko, Luka Ivanov, Uliana Klimchuk, Tanya Kostyniuk, Asia Psenychna, Sasha Sereda, and Karina Syrota. The plays were written during a mentorship project started in April 2023. Professional writers and directors worked with the young writers over Zoom for five months. Directed by Sara Skar.

Performances will take place at Ukrainian American Community Center, 301 NE Main Street on Friday, February 14, 7:00pm and Saturday, February 15, 2:00pm.

Tickets - More info - Questions: info@uaccmn.org

*  *  * Synopsis of the plays *  *  *

Superhero: A Ukrainian college students visits the parents of her college roommate in North Carolina

Candies, Wedding, Bones: A young woman visits the cemetery where her grandmother is buried.  A young man trying to sell wedding dresses encounters her.

Perfect Material: A college film school student who’s been out of Ukraine comes home to make a documentary by talking with her father about his experience fighting the war.

Dnipro: A college student returns to Dnipro to visit her aging and increasingly forgetful grandmother.

The Sea: A couple attempting to escape Ukraine to live in Cyprus use the wife’s mother as a means to escape

Proof of Love: Two young students are held at the police station for taking photos of railroad tracks.

Ruins: A young woman returns to her burnt-out home and encounters her younger much-more-innocent self.

The Old Couple: An elderly couple have left Ukraine and now live in Vienna and discuss the pros and cons of returning to Ukraine.

The Orchid: A doctor and her retired husband living in Ukraine listen to the news of the day on the television while discussing the state of the husband’s orchid.

Performing Arts are a means to preserving and perpetuating Ukrainian Culture and Identity from tyrants set upon the destruction of an entire nation.

North Loop’s New Sports and Entertainment Venue, The Rabbit Hole, Opens February 7

The venue will combine elevated American cuisine, craft cocktails and a high-energy atmosphere for sports fans, food lovers and live music enthusiasts alike.

The Rabbit Hole, 411 N Washington Avenue, will open on Friday, February 7, just in time for Super Bowl Sunday. It will be the North Loop’s largest sports and live entertainment venue, spanning 12,000 square feet, with an additional 3,000-square-foot patio opening this spring.

Co-owned by Deepak and Sara Nath, Joe Berg, Thomas Pivec, Craig Dauffenbach and Jay Ettinger, the ownership group brings extensive experience from previous projects, including Bootleggers, The Pourhouse, The Exchange & Alibi Lounge and the Lumber Exchange Event Center.

“We are lifelong Minneapolis residents, many of us spent decades in the North Loop, and we are all die-hard sports fans,” says Deepak Nath, co-owner of The Rabbit Hole. “We saw an opportunity to create something unique in this neighborhood – a space where fans can come for the game, stay for the food and keep the energy going all night.”

Thomas Pivec is leading the culinary program with a menu that blends elevated classics with local comfort foods. Guests can enjoy game-day favorites such as a Jumbo Salted Pretzel with grain mustard and Summit beer cheese sauce, Smoked Chicken Wings, the 411 Smash Burger and “The Big Stick,” a 10-inch mozzarella stick that stretches up to eight feet. Elevated offerings such as a 14 oz grilled Sterling Silver Ribeye with truffle fries and bearnaise, Tuna Poke with fresh ginger, Fresno peppers, seaweed, avocado and wonton crisps and house-made Tater Tot Hot Dish round out the menu. Dinner will be served nightly with lunch served Friday through Sunday initially. Brunch will follow in the coming months.

The craft cocktail menu features modern twists on classics, including the RH Old Fashioned made with Rabbit Hole Distillery’s Heigold Bourbon and Filthy Cherries, and the Skrewed Up Espresso Martini made with peanut butter whiskey, vodka and espresso. Three off-the-menu Instagram-worthy cocktails have been hidden throughout the venue, accessible to order via QR codes once found. Guests can also enjoy a rotating selection of 12 draft beers, highlighting local favorites like Castle Danger Cream Ale, Fulton Lonely Blonde, along with a curated selection of wines, bottles and cans.

Designed by EK Interiors, with architecture by Little Box Inc., the venue brings together a stylish and high-energy vibe. Guests descend a staircase “down the rabbit hole” into a space filled with playful surprises and unexpected design elements. The entrance features an ultra-transparent film LED screen that transforms the windows into a dynamic visual experience. 42 high-definition, large-format TVs ranging from 65-85 inches, and a prominent 200-inch LED board behind the stage provide optimal viewing for all major sporting events. With access to the NFL Sunday Ticket and ESPN+, the venue guarantees that Minnesota sports fans can cheer on their favorite teams, including the Twins, Vikings, Wild, Lynx, Timberwolves, United FC, Gophers and more – all with the sound on for an immersive experience. Three Vestaboards will display rotating quotes and visual surprises, while a sports score ticker delivers real-time game updates.

A blend of communal spaces and cozy booths will welcome up to 700 guests, in groups large and small. The space is casual and approachable for lunch and afternoon meetings and entirely transforms for the dinner and nightlife crowd with different styles of seating and lighting. Partitions allow for a private event space, named “The Den,” which can accommodate up to 25 seated or 35 standing for private and corporate events. The main bar, lined with 12 hanging TVs, seats up to 40 guests, while a secondary back bar, which serves both indoor and outdoor spaces, seats an additional six. Garage doors lead to a multi-level private patio, set to open this spring, complete with astroturf, outdoor TVs and seating for several hundred guests. Through those windows, abundant natural light enters the subterranean space year-round, adding warmth and vibrancy to the venue.

The Rabbit Hole is more than just a sports bar – it’s a community-driven destination. Weekly events such as Trivia Mafia on Tuesdays (starting Feb 25) and Saturday afternoon Bingo (starting Feb 8) invite guests to visit beyond game days. A lineup of notable cover bands and live DJs will entertain guests Thursday through Saturday from 10 pm onward. In partnership with Firefighters for Healing, proceeds from pull tabs and Saturday bingo will benefit local firefighters, burn victims and their families. Always serving those who serve, The Rabbit Hole will offer a 25% discount for military, EMTs and first responders.

To celebrate the opening and Super Bowl LIX, The Rabbit Hole will offer happy hour from 11am-11pm on Sunday, February 9. Tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

HOURS: Monday-Thursday, 3pm-2am; Friday-Sunday 11am-2am. Happy hour will be offered from 3-6pm daily. Reservations are now available for groups of 5 or more.

Follow The Rabbit Hole on social media @therabbitholempls.

Experience “Institute of Ice” at Mia: A Winter Art Spectacle, February 6th

Minneapolis Institute of Art (Target Park), February 6, 5-8:30pm Program / 9a Sculpture Installation Begins (Open to Public Viewing)

The Minneapolis Institute of Art  (Mia), 2400 3rd Avenue S, invites media and the public to experience the return of Institute of Ice, a dazzling outdoor celebration of art, winter, and community. This year’s event features eight breathtaking hand-carved ice sculptures inspired by Mia’s collection and the upcoming Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys exhibition. Guests can enjoy live ice sculpting, guided tours, an ice bar, music, and more.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Ice Sculptures: Eight hand-carved pieces by Minnesota Ice, including works inspired by Yoshitomo Nara and Nick Cave.

• Live Ice Carving: Watch artists transform ice into stunning sculptures that are (literal) works of art.

• Tours: Explore sculpture-inspired artworks with guided and self-guided tours.

• Ice Bar & Food Truck: Enjoy winter-themed drinks and bites from KCM Eggroll.

• Fire Pit Lounge and Live DJ: Stay cozy while enjoying the icy artistry and live DJ.

Kolman & Reeb Gallery Celebrates 5 Year Anniversary of Project Space Grant Program

Since its inception, the Kolman & Reeb Project Space Grant initiative has supported 19 artists of various styles and techniques to finally undertake and realize their most ambitious projects.

2025 marks the fifth year of Kolman & Reeb Gallery’s Project Space Grant Program.  Established in 2020 by gallery owner and partner, Anita Sue Kolman, the grant provides Minnesota visual artists with resources, exhibition space, and financial support to undertake projects that will substantially impact their artistic careers. By supporting the Minnesota art community with this grant program, the gallery aims to foster art that delivers engaging and thought-provoking experiences to gallery patrons and local art collectors.

Like so many of us, artists also have aspirations or excitement built around a future creative pursuit. For a professional artist, a new idea or concept could significantly impact the scope of their future work. However, most artists set aside these desires until the time and resources are available. By being awarded a Kolman & Reeb Gallery Project Space Grant, selected artists can finally fulfill on the development of these compelling, courageous, and even unimaginable endeavors.

Since its inception, the Kolman & Reeb Project Space Grant initiative has supported 19 artists of various styles and techniques to finally undertake and realize their most ambitious projects. As in the past four years, again in 2025, the Kolman & Reeb Gallery has awarded individual grants of $10,000 each to selected artists who met the submission criteria. However, the opportunity is more than just financial support. The grant also offers creative advice, curation, business, marketing, and promotional support. All it takes is a unique vision and a project proposal.

"The opportunity to create new work knowing that it will be exhibited in a gallery setting changes the entire focus of the project completely. The foresight of being assured the work will be offered for sale in a commercial art gallery removes nearly all constraints." Cameron Zebrun, 2022 grantee

The selection of artists who will receive one of several $10,000 grants each year is merit-based and determined by examples of past work and concepts used in their grant proposal. Submission requirements include a description, plans for public interaction, a budget, a timeline, a resume, work samples, and descriptions of how the work samples relate to the proposed project.

The gallery provides support throughout the grant period, including quarterly payments, space for public interaction, and guidance to ensure the successful completion and exhibition of the project. Applications are accepted annually from July 15 through September 15, with grantees notified by November 30. The selected artists are announced in January, and their exhibitions are scheduled throughout the following year.

The Kolman & Reeb Gallery Project Space continues to play a pivotal role in the Minnesota art scene by empowering artists to pursue transformative projects, engage with the community, and advance their careers through substantial financial and professional support.

"This validation of my artistic vision and talent allowed me to see past the usual limitations and present work that is not only an evolution of my current work and style, but it allowed me to offer distinctive, unique, and truly original art." Lisa Truax, 2024 grantee

Exhibiting contemporary, abstract artwork by Minnesota artists in diverse media, Kolman & Reeb Gallery is a unique collaboration between Anita Sue Kolman, arts patron, and Jodi Reeb, artist and curator. Kolman & Reeb Gallery creates essential connections between artists and collectors by holding exhibitions celebrating the evolving aesthetics of the established artists it represents, with an eye toward placing artworks in the homes and businesses of discerning collectors.

For more information about the Project Space Grant Program, please contact Anita Sue Kolman at anita@kolmanreebgallery.com or 612-385-4239. Kolman & Reeb Gallery is in Studio 395 of the Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson Street NE.

Gamut Gallery Announces First Exhibition of 2025 - Sovereignty of Joy, a Solo Show by Artist Jonathan Thunder, Feb 8 - March 8

Gamut Gallery will present their first exhibit of 2025, Sovereignty of Joy, February 8 - March 8. This is a solo exhibition celebrating the artistry of Jonathan Thunder. With a striking visual language steeped in symbolism and layered narratives, Thunder’s work is a masterful blend of cultural heritage, personal identity, and surrealist storytelling.

An enrolled member of the Red Lake Band of Ojibwe, Thunder draws inspiration from his upbringing in the Twin Cities and his roots in the traditions of the Red Lake Indian Reservation. These dual perspectives imbue his art with a unique depth, where everyday moments collide with elements of tribal mythology and pop culture. From playful depictions of going out for ice cream or shooting pool Sovereignty of Joy explores the delight found in ordinary experiences.

Amid the vibrant compositions and sensual imagery of Thunder's artwork lies a subtle undercurrent—an edge of saltiness and humor that hints at the complexities of relationships. Thunder’s distinctive approach to painting brings together human and animal forms in surreal environments, each resonating with humor, sincerity, and emotional nuance.

Thunder’s accolades, including the prestigious Pollock-Krasner Foundation Award and recognition for his short films and multidisciplinary work, mark him as a standout talent in contemporary art. This exhibition offers a rare chance to experience - and collect - his pieces!

 *  *  * Exhibition Details *  *  *

PUBLIC OPENING NIGHT Sat., Feb 8, 7-10pm $20 tickets - FREE to members 

ARTIST CONVERSATION WITH JONATHAN THUNDER Moderated by Russ White  Thursday, Feb 20, 6-8pm. $20 tickets - FREE to members 

COLLAB NIGHT: EXPLORING IDENTITY Facilitated by the Gamut crew. Materials provided. Sat, Feb 28,  6-9pm $30 tickets 

CLOSING RECEPTION Sat, March 8, 2-4pm. Join the Gamut crew for an informal tea service and last look at Sovereignty of Joy - FREE event.

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GALLERY & GIFT SHOP OPEN HOURS
Visit for FREE during our open hours: Thurs - Fri, 11a-6p; Sat 11a-4p
*Closed on exhibit opening day 

Theatre in the Round Announces Legacy of Light, Feb 21-Mar 16

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) is presenting Legacy of Light by Karen Zacarías as the fifth production of their 73rd Season. Quirky humor, joyful intellectualism, a fascinating true story, and poignant fiction all collide in this beautifully surreal comedy that asks “What is the science of love?”

In this play, Zacarías highlights the unsung history of Émilie du Châtelet, a mathematician and scientist in 18th century France (and lover of the philosopher Voltaire). Legacy of Light juxtaposes the true story of Châtelet becoming unexpectedly pregnant at 42 and that of a fictional 21st-century physicist desperately trying to conceive a child.

Kari Steinbach directs the six-member cast with stage management by Erin Sondrol, intimacy and fight direction by Mason Tyer, set design by Sadie Ward, costumes by Colleen O’Dell, lighting by Bill Larsen, props by Ren Edson, and sound design by Warren Sampson.

This is the second year TRP has presented a story about historical women in STEM. Last year’s Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson was well received by audiences and members of the local science community. This year, TRP is partnering with Minnesota Academy of Sciences’ Science Salon to host a discussion and Q&A with physicists Dr. Robyn Wangberg and Dr. Jolene Johnson Armstrong, immediately following the performance on Sunday, March 2 at 2pm. 

Legacy of Light runs February 21 to March 16, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm.

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Tickets: $20-29

Content Warning: Flashing lights. Sexual situations and adult themes. Best for ages 14+

Audio-Described performance: Sunday, March 16 

Box Office Phone:  612-333-3010

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Theatre in the Round’s facilities are accessible for audience members using wheelchairs. Assisted listening and individual captioning devices are available for check-out. An Audio-Described performance will be held on Sunday, March 16 at 2pm. For questions about access services, please email tix@theatreintheround.org or call the box office at 612-333-3010.

DisPlace: A North Loop Fantasy Quest, March 13–16, Luminary Arts Center

zAmya Theater Project has announced DisPlace: A North Loop Fantasy Quest, an original production that blends real-world housing issues with fantasy role-playing adventure. Created in partnership with the North Loop Neighborhood Association and Avivo Village, DisPlace: A North Loop Fantasy Quest runs March 13 – 16 at Luminary Arts Center, 700 N 1st Street, in the North Loop. 

The North Loop is an economically diverse neighborhood with high-end condos and organizations supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. It is also ranked among the lowest of neighborhoods affected by poverty. Recent conflicts over a homeless encampment highlighted the urgent need for community dialogue and solutions. In response, zAmya Theater Project, the North Loop Neighborhood Association and Avivo Village collaborated to foster a shared vision of inclusivity, safety, and housing support for all residents.

One outcome of this partnership is DisPlace: A North Loop Fantasy Quest - a theatrical adventure created by and for North Loop community members across the housing spectrum. This innovative production weaves stories of unsheltered homelessness into a fictional narrative, inviting audiences to imagine bold solutions for ending homelessness. The goal is to inspire an ongoing coalition of neighbors working together to compassionately address housing concerns.

About the Play

Hear ye, hear ye! His honorable Lord Sunshine hereby invites you to the first official Festival of DisPlacement, celebrating the triumph over poverty in the Kingdom’s Northern Loop! Rest assured, there is absolutely no chance whatsoever that you will run into any wayward heroes or formidable monsters on your way to Archer’s Arena – which is definitely not Target Field. However, please be advised that you may want to keep your sword on you…you know… just in case. Inspired by the high-energy imagination of tabletop roleplaying games and created in conversation with North Loop and Avivo Village residents, DisPlace is an epic fantasy quest about the reality of housing injustice in Minneapolis.

Through audience participation, and immersive storytelling, DisPlace challenges audiences members to think about how we can come together as a community to create housing justice.

Directed by Harry Waters Jr. and written by Elle Thoni with contributions from Charli Fool Bear-Vetter, the play features performances by zAmya Theater Project troupe members and Avivo Village residents. Music will be composed by Carlisle Evans Peck.

Tickets

All ages welcome. Parental discretion is advised – audience discussions may include adult topics such as substance use and trauma. $10 gift cards will be available after each performance for individuals with lived experience of homelessness (while supplies last). Sign up at the box office upon arrival. No refunds on tickets. More info at zamyatheater.org.

Insomnia Cookies Opens 2nd Minneapolis Location

Insomnia Cookies, a cult brand known for serving warm cookies all day and late into the night, is set to open its second store in Minneapolis. The new bakery, located on Hennepin Avenue just north of downtown, marks the second location in Minneapolis, the third store in Minnesota, and its 317th location nationwide. 

When that craving for something sweet hits (even at 3am!), Insomnia Cookies offers in-store, pickup, and delivery options for customers to experience the company’s signature warm, delicious cookies. From the Classic Chocolate Chunk cookie to favorites like Snickerdoodle and Confetti Deluxe, delicious Cookies IN Ice Cream flavors, decadent brookies, brownies, and blondies, a full slate of vegan options, and a frequently-rotating limited-edition menu, the brand’s offerings satisfy every sweet tooth – warm or cold. 

In celebration of the new Minneapolis location, Insomnia Cookies will be holding an all-day in-store grand opening event and late-night celebration baked full of freebies, treats, and more.

STORE DETAILS

• Address: 600 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403
• Store Hours:
  • Sunday 12:00 PM - 1:00 AM
  • Monday 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Tuesday 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Wednesday 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Thursday 11:00 AM - 3:00 AM
  • Friday 11:00 AM - 3:00 AM
  • Saturday 12:00 PM - 3:00 AM

GRAND OPENING EVENT DETAILS & GIVEAWAYS

• Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
• Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM
• Sweet Offers:
  • On Saturday, February 1, from 12 PM – 3 AM, Insomniacs who visit the new Minneapolis store and sign-up for Insomnia Rewards* will receive 1 FREE Classic cookie (no purchase required) in-store.
    • *For new Insomnia Rewards members – Customers can sign up online or in the app. Customers will need to enter their mobile number, first and last name and email address to create an account. Inside Insomnia Rewards, customers will be able to easily track their points status, redeem available rewards, access their surprise offers and easily reorder their favorite menu items.
  • Insomniacs can also earn FREE delivery with the code MINNEAPOLIS beginning Saturday, February 1 – Saturday, February 15.  

The new store will deliver to Insomniacs in Minneapolis and throughout surrounding neighborhoods. Insomnia Cookies looks forward to satisfying the cravings of Minneapolis cookie lovers. 

Join the squad! The new Minneapolis location is hiring part-time cookie crew members, delivery drivers, and shift leaders. Interested applicants and cookie lovers are encouraged to apply now at Careers.InsomniaCookies.com. 

Download the Insomnia Cookies App! Satisfying your sweets cravings is made easy with the Insomnia Cookies app. Insomniacs can track their deliveries, re-order favorites, and receive the best deals that are only available in the app. Available in the App Store and Google Play Store.

Sunrise and Pink Clouds by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

I was on the treadmill getting my exercise in and a photography webinar on my iPad. The sky started to lighten up as sunrise neared. I looked up from my iPad and saw a beautiful array of pink clouds low in the sky. The clouds colored the smoke rising high from the power a light plant pink. I knew I wanted a photograph of that scene. I grabbed my iPad and rushed out of the room, took the elevator up to my condo and grabbed my camera. It was VERY cold outside but I knew I had no time to put on anything over my exercise clothes. I didn't even have time to setup my tripod. Hurrying out to our patio deck I adjusted the settings on my camera and took eight photographs.

While this photograph is a beautiful landscape scene, I missed the best one, which was of course the one I saw from the treadmill. By the time I started photographing the clouds had moved higher in the sky. I went back to the exercise room to finish my exercise routine. When I walked into the room I went over and spoke to one of my neighbors asking if she had seen beautiful clouds over the river. Indeed she had. I told her I missed getting the best shot. She replied that I could get that shot the next morning, to which I replied, no that was a one time opportunity. Sure enough, the following morning the sky was covered with gray clouds and the sunrise was not visible through the cloud cover. There was no pink to be found in the sky. 

You can see more of my work @ricrosowphotography.com and @PriceKrishnanGallery. 

Mill City Museum Nominated for Nation’s Best History Museum - Vote Daily to Help Assure They Win!

Photo credit Willette Photography, Inc

  Help Mill City take the top spot by voting online daily

Mill City Museum is asking for the public’s support to take the top spot in an online contest to win the title of the Nation’s Best History Museum.

The downtown Minneapolis museum has been named among 20 nominees for a USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel award in the category of best history museum for the third consecutive year. Mill City Museum placed in the top 5 in the same contest in 2023 and 2024. This year, the museum hopes to claim the top prize.

“We are so grateful for all the support we’ve received from Minnesotans in this category,” said Mill City Museum Site Manager David Stevens. “This recognition of the great work our staff does to tell the rich history of Minneapolis is tremendous, and we really feel like this could be our year!”

To vote for Mill City Museum as Best History Museum and learn more about USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards, click here. One vote per day per person is permitted. Individuals are encouraged to vote daily through the contest’s end at 11 am CST on February 10. History lovers can also support the museum online by sharing the hashtag #MCMTop10 on social media.

Visitors at the museum can learn about Minneapolis’ growth through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities about the intertwined histories of the flour industry, the Mississippi River, and the city of Minneapolis. Other highlights include multimedia shows, scenic views atop the Koch Rooftop Observation Deck, works from local artists, and award winning architecture.

Additionally, Mill City Museum offers a variety of events for all ages, ranging from walking tours to family days. It also hosts free special exhibits in the free Mill Commons area.

Hennepin Healthcare Patients to Benefit from Meet Minneapolis Warm Winter Clothing Drive

Meet Minneapolis – along with its tourism, hospitality, and community partners – donated more than $22,000 of warm winter clothes

Today, January 9, at Hennepin Healthcare’s Clinic and Specialty Center, the third annual Meet Minneapolis Warm Winter Clothing Drive wrapped up with more than $22,000 worth of new clothes donated for distribution to patients in need. Since mid-November, Meet Minneapolis, its tourism and hospitality partner businesses, community businesses, and individuals came together to provide much-needed clothing items that will assist Hennepin Healthcare in its mission to discharge patients with dignity.

“We are incredibly grateful for this outpouring of generosity from our community partners,” said Melvin Tennant, Meet Minneapolis President and CEO. “It’s not just about physical comfort – these donations provide a sense of hope that can be transformative. In just the third year of this clothing drive, the amount of warm clothes donated has more than tripled. The success of this initiative highlights the compassion of the Minneapolis community and its commitment to helping neighbors in need.”

From November 18, 2024 to January 6, 2025, Meet Minneapolis collected new, warm clothes to be donated to Hennepin Healthcare. Many Hennepin Healthcare patients have financial challenges. Some patients have damaged clothing after being involved in an accident or clothing has been removed to access wounds. Others may not have adequate clothing for the cold weather. Meet Minneapolis staff, board members and partner businesses, and other community businesses donated new coats, boots, pants, tops, mittens, scarves, socks, and more.

“The donations we receive through this clothing drive truly impact the lives of our patients,” explained Hennepin Healthcare CEO Jennifer DeCubellis. “For many of the individuals we serve, winter can be a time of immense hardship. The generosity shown through this drive means that more of our patients will have the basic resources they need to stay safe and warm. Meet Minneapolis and everyone who participated in this initiative are making a real difference.”

Several Meet Minneapolis partners were significant contributors to the Warm Winter Clothing Drive. They include Hyatt Regency Minneapolis; Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot; The Marquette Hotel & Windows at Marquette; Courtyard Minneapolis Downtown, Creekside Apartments, Stearns Bank; and the Minnesota Vikings. 

“One of the roles of Meet Minneapolis is to bring people together in ways that make a tangible, positive impact on our city. With this effort, the team goes beyond visitors and convention attendees and engages our community members,” stated Tabitha Montgomery, Meet Minneapolis Board Chair and Executive Director of the Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association. “This clothing drive is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together toward a common goal. We acknowledge that similar initiatives are supported by other organizations across the city, and hope that our collective efforts can inspire others to take action, especially as winter months pose significant challenges for many in our community.”

“The Warm Winter Clothing Drive exemplifies the heart and spirit of our city,” said Ka Vang, Meet Minneapolis Vice President of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Access. “This collaboration between Meet Minneapolis, Hennepin Healthcare, and our tourism and hospitality industry is a shining example of how we can come together to ensure that everyone in our community has what they need to thrive. I’m proud to see Minneapolis lead with kindness and generosity.”

Art Escape Room Experience Coming to the Northrup King Building

The Secret of the Lost Pyramid: An Art Escape Room Challenge

Looking for a fun and creative interactive experience? How about paint night meets escape room? Join Oya Arts in Suite 265 of the Northrup King Building in February, March or April for The Secret of the Lost Pyramid: An Art Escape Room Challenge.

  Dates and reservations

As an explorer, your mission is to solve a series of cryptic puzzles and riddles, unlocking each stage of your painting as you race against time. But beware - the Watchful Pharaoh sees all, and will stop at nothing to protect its secrets. Can you beat the clock? Every clue brings you closer to breaking the mystery, but the dangers grow with each stroke. Only by completing your masterpiece can you lift the veil of mystery and escape the pyramid alive.

Event Highlights

Immersive Setting: Step into the heart of a forbidden pyramid, where every shadow holds ancient secrets and hidden dangers.

Puzzle-Solving Adventure: Conquer cryptic puzzles and riddles that lead you deeper into the mystery, unlocking stages of your painting along the way.

Race Against Time: The clock is ticking—use each clue to get closer to breaking the mystery before time runs out.

The Watchful Pharaoh: Face off against the spirit of the Watchful Pharaoh, who will do anything to guard its secrets.

All-Inclusive: No art skills needed—just bring your courage and curiosity. All supplies are provided!

Unique Take-Home Artwork: Complete your masterpiece and escape with a one-of-a-kind creation and bragging rights!

Light Refreshments Provided: Enjoy tasty bites to fuel your creativity as you delve into the pyramid’s secrets.

Thrilling Experience: This is no ordinary art night—prepare for suspense, strategy, and a touch of luck to see if you can survive the challenge.

Sean Sherman to Appear on Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr., February 4

Celebrity chef and Owamni founder, Sean Sherman, will be uncovering his own family history on this season of Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Mark your calendar to catch the February 4 episode. Fellow chef José Andrés will also be featured in this episode of the Emmy-nominated PBS docuseries.

Bridgewater Neighbors and Friends of the Arts Invites Mill District Neighbors to Opening Reception for Abstracted Perspectives, January 16

Bridgewater Neighbors and Friends of the Arts welcomes you to attend the January 16 Meet the Artists Reception for its latest exhibit, Abstracted Perspectives. Please RSVP at bnfacommittee@gmail.com. You can also take a virtual tour here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhoCHKYo9tE.

Lobster Week 2025 at the Nicollet Island Inn

For over a decade, Lobster Week has been the unofficial last hurrah of the holiday season at the Nicollet Island Inn, and Larry and Caryl invite you to enjoy a decadent lobster feast at their historic inn. Holiday decorations will remain throughout, set against the backdrop of the inn's elegant dining room, illuminated by crystal chandeliers and with views of the Merriam Street Bridge, now also illuminated and casting a lovely glow. Make your reservations now!

January 12 Fix-It Clinic at American Swedish Institute

At a Fix-It Clinic, volunteers help you dismantle, troubleshoot and repair your small household appliances, clothing, electronics, mobile devices and more. Learn valuable skills and reduce waste at the same time. Clinics are held from noon to 4pm, with the last items accepted at 3:30pm. Events are first come, first served. No pre-registration required. 

The next clinic is Sunday, January 12, at the American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Avenue S.

Tugboat Icebreaker on Mississippi River by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

A tugboat icebreaker on the Mississippi clears the ice in early December during reconstruction work on the Stone Arch Bridge. The tugboat went back and forth to clear a path presumably to facilitate moving the construction platform barges to and from the bridge. It is certainly not your typical icebreaker.

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View Ric's work at ricrosowphotography.com and PriceKrishnanGallery.com.