Tickets Now Available for Puccini’s Suor Angelica at The Basilica of Saint Mary, June 26-29

Puccini’s Suor Angelica will be the first-ever opera to be performed at The Basilica of Saint Mary - June 26-29

TICKETS

Out of the Box Opera, which designs productions that get to the heart of what makes opera exciting, is a pioneer of popup opera. Past production venues include Uppercut Boxing Gym, Weisman Art Museum, A-Mill Artist Lofts and Canopy Hotel. For this historic first, The Basilica of Saint Mary is acting as co-producer.

Few places in the Twin Cities can rival the Basilica’s power to stun. The iconic building is a place of beauty, mystery, and drama - the perfect complement to Suor Angelica, an intense one-act work set in a convent and sung by an all-female cast. As the tragic story of Sister Angelica unfolds, audiences will visit three separate locations within the Basilica: the Teresa of Calcutta room, the Chapel, and the majestic Nave. As if swept along by the music itself, at times actually mixing with the performers, the audience will have a uniquely immersive opera-going experience that will be unforgettable to first-time opera goers and veterans alike.

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Side note  - Learn more about this production when Mill City Times publishes a Becky Fillinger interview with Out of the Box Opera President, Noah Eisenberg, in May!

Sherman Associates Completes Ladder 260 Apartments in the Mill District

Ladder 260 is a six-story, 82,225-square-foot low-rise apartment building, featuring 90 affordable housing units. 

Now pre-leasing - learn more at Ladder260.com

Sherman Associates has completed Ladder 260, a new $34 million affordable housing development located at 260 Portland Avenue in the Mill District neighborhood.

Kraus-Anderson (KA) is the general contractor for the multi-phase project for Sherman, which is redeveloping most of an under-utilized city block at Washington Avenue and Portland Avenue. The first phase of the overall $161 million development project was a new $12 million fire station for the City of Minneapolis, which was completed in 2022. The final phase, called O2, is a 22-story, 240-unit market-rate apartment tower at 250 Portland Avenue, expected to be completed in early fall of 2024.

Designed by ESG Architects, Ladder 260 is a six-story, 82,225-square-foot low-rise apartment building, featuring 90 affordable housing units.  Amenities include a hotel-like lobby and leasing center, fitness room, 2nd floor lounge and a rooftop deck, bike storage/parking and pet spa.  Walk-up units on the street level provide a unique unit type to the market and will enhance the vibrancy along 3^rd Street.  The location has proximity to light rail and bus routes and is highly walkable and bike-friendly.

KA and Sherman have worked together on several projects that have enhanced the downtown Minneapolis community. Most recently, the 10-story Moment Apartments opened its doors in January 2023. The mixed-use, 222-unit development also includes the Transitional Healing Center for Firefighters For Healing. The center located on the 2nd floor includes 12 fully furnished suites for families of burn survivors, firefighters and first responders traveling to the Twin Cities for care at nearby Hennepin Healthcare.

Cirrostratus Clouds Over Downtown by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

It was January 29th and the sun had set behind downtown building. The glow of the setting sun continued to light up the sky and the cirrostratus clouds. I had gone out specifically to photograph the sunset. The cloud formation was stunningly beautiful. Mother nature put on quite a show.  

Art A Whirl, a Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA) sponsored event takes place May 19-21. You can see more of my work during Art A Whirl, at Price Krishnan Gallery and at  ricrosowphotography.com

Cirrorstratus Clouds Over Downtown

Don't Get Towed - Spring Street Sweeping Starts April 16

Public Works crews are gearing up to start the City’s comprehensive street sweeping program to clear away what has accumulated in the streets over the winter. The City has scheduled Tuesday, April 16, for the first day of sweeping. Beginning Monday, April 15, drivers should watch for hot pink temporary “No Parking” signs to avoid a ticket and tow.

Starting April 16 for approximately four weeks, sweeping crews will take care of more than 1,000 miles of city streets. To make sure the crews can do the most complete job possible, temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted at least 24 hours in advance to make sure streets are clear of parked vehicles. Drivers need to follow street sweeping parking rules or they may have their cars ticketed and towed to the Minneapolis Impound Lot.

Find your street on the schedule! Starting Friday, April 12, you can see when your street is scheduled to be swept by visiting the interactive street sweeping map.

Learn more about street sweeping.

Going Out, Coming In: LGBTQ+ Spaces in Downtown Minneapolis Returns to Mill City Museum

Exhibit showcases the history of the city’s LGBTQIA+ community spaces

On April 18, the photography exhibit Going Out, Coming In: LGBTQ+ Spaces in Downtown Minneapolis returns to Mill City Museum. The public is invited to view the free exhibit, which will be located in the museum’s central Mill Commons area.

Previously displayed during the summer of 2023, Going Out, Coming In showcases the importance of downtown Minneapolis’ LGBTQIA+ community spaces throughout the 20th century. The exhibit details how queer history is present and intertwined with the neighborhood’s development during that time period.

Through this exhibit, visitors can deepen their understanding of downtown Minneapolis and those who lived in and visited the community. Images highlight places where the city’s queer community gathered to address the systemic challenges of discrimination, urban renewal, and HIV/AIDS.

This exhibit is part of an ongoing partnership between Twin Cities Pride and the Minnesota Historical Society. It is inspired by the Twin Cities LGBTQ+ History Tours developed by TC Pride and MNHS in 2022.

Going Out, Coming In will be on display during regular museum hours from April 18 to July 14 2024.

The exhibit is made possible through funding provided by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Assist the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency - Join the Volunteer Water Monitoring Program

As spring arrives in Minnesota, it’s time for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to kick off its popular program that relies on Minnesotans to monitor our 12,000+ lakes and 92,000+ miles of streams: the Volunteer Water Monitoring Program. 

The MPCA is currently recruiting volunteers to measure water clarity in numerous lakes and streams – including several high-priority sites across the Twin Cities Metro Area – and then report back to the agency. This is the perfect opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in protecting our state’s natural resources! 

Over 50 years of environmental stewardship

When the University of Minnesota launched the Volunteer Water Monitoring Program in 1973, it would go on to become the second oldest, and still active, volunteer water monitoring program in the nation. Transferred to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency in 1978, it has since become a roaring success, empowering Minnesotans from all corners of the state to support the health of our beloved waters.

Minnehaha Creek water monitoring

How does it work? 

Volunteers conduct a simple water clarity test in a body of water twice a month from April-September. MPCA provide all the equipment and training, so no experience is needed. 

The MPCA uses the data to help determine whether lakes and streams are meeting water quality standards, which are designed to protect aquatic life and recreational activities, such as fishing and swimming. 

In some cases, the information gathered by volunteers is the only monitoring done on a particular lake or stream!

A Secchi disk is an 8-inch (20 cm) disk with alternating black and white quadrants. It is lowered into the water of a lake until it can no longer be seen by the observer. This depth of disappearance, called the Secchi depth, is a measure of the transparency of the water.

Community Meeting Regarding Scooters on May 13 The Depot

Council Member Michael Rainville has arranged a Town Hall Meeting at The Depot, 225 3rd Avenue S at 6 pm on Monday, May 13.

Allen Klugman of Traffic Control, Dillon Fried of the Department of Public Works’ Mobility Team and Park Commissioner Elizabeth Shaffer will answer questions and concerns about the upcoming scooter season. Residents who live near the Lakes will also be in attendance to discuss their concerns.

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Join the meeting to learn more, discuss problems observed and get your questions answered. 

Volunteer Opportunities to Help Care For Our Mississippi Riverfront

Public is invited to participate in shaping the Natural Resource Management for East Owamniyomni/Father Hennepin Bluff Park Lower Trail.

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1 - April 16, 6:30pm, Pillsbury A-Mill Performance Hall, 315 Main Street SE - Community Discussion: Caring for East Owamniyomni/Father Hennepin Bluff Riverfront 

Friends of the Mississippi River and Full Circle Indigenous Planning and Design will offer regional context for this planning and share their initial assessment and draft recommendations. Participants will be invited to offer ideas, respond to draft concepts, and sign up to participate in caring for nature at East Owamniyomni. You can sign up for care events this season here. 

Marcy-Holmes Neighborhood Association (MHNA) has partnered with Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board for several years by engaging volunteers in nature restoration activities at Father Hennepin Bluff Lower Trail, part of the Central Mississippi River Regional Park. As the Dakota name for the falls is Owamniyomni, volunteers are calling this lower trail area East Owamniyomni.

In 2023-24, MHNA received funding from the Mississippi Watershed Management Organization to complete a 10-year natural resource management plan for volunteer-led restoration at East Owamniyomni. Friends of the Mississippi River and Full Circle Indigenous Planning and Design are working together on this plan.  Essential parts of this planning process are evaluating its ecological health, and engaging Indigenous people and community members both in shaping the plan and playing a role in caring for nature in this special Mississippi River sanctuary. 

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2 - Thursday, April 25, 6:30-7:30p - Join a site visit about this plan, led by volunteers. Following the meeting, you are welcome to comment, including online, until May 16. The plan will be finalized in July 2024.

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3 - Tuesday, Sept. 10, 5:30-7:30p - The group will be planting shrubs as they launch implementation of the plan. This event is part of the 2024 season of care days - please sign up here for April - November dates!

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For more information or to join the volunteer leadership team, please contact Cordelia Pierson at cordelia.pierson@gmail.com, 651-815-1268 cell, LinkedIn, Facebook.

Help Shape the Future of Travel and Tourism in Minneapolis!

Destination Minneapolis: Charting the Future of Minneapolis Tourism

You can help shape the future of travel and tourism in Minneapolis! 

Meet Minneapolis, the city’s Convention and Visitors Association, is conducting a survey of Minneapolis residents. The information gathered will be part of an effort to develop an updated 10-year tourism master plan to increase the appeal of Minneapolis as a destination for travelers.

Please share you thoughts and be part of this important work. The survey, which closes on May 3, will take approximately 5 minutes to complete and all responses will be kept confidential.

The survey is available in four languages:

English - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MinneapolisEng

Hmong - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MinneapolisRShmong

Somali - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MinneapolisRSsomali

Spanish - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MinneapolisEsp

Children's Theatre Company Announces 2024-2025 Season

Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) recently announced their 2024-2025 Season of six productions featuring a world premiere play, Drawing Lessons; a rolling world premiere musical, Milo Imagines the World; the thrilling spectacle, MOYA by Zip Zap Circus from Cape Town, South Africa; the return of the smash hit holiday favorite Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!; the Minnesota premiere of Manual Cinema’s Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster based on the beloved books by Mo Willems; and a CTC original production of Disney’s 3-time Tony Award®-nominated musical phenomenon Frozen.

The season begins with MOYA by Zip Zap Circus, featuring an original soundtrack composed by Josh Hawks. Audiences will soar into the visual spectacle of this pulsating acrobatic performance set against the Cape Town skyline! Comic jugglers, unicycle dancers, and an authentic gumboot dance will take you on a freewheeling journey that explores the spirit and vitality of township life. Watch as a simple city bench becomes a sidesplitting spark for a newfound friendship, and feel the energetic beat of South African pop music. You’ll relish this thrilling feat of acrobatics and rhythmic movement that celebrates the joy of sharing community with one another. Best for all ages, MOYA by Zip Zap Circus runs September 12-October 20, 2024, on the UnitedHealth Group Stage.

Next, experience the energy of a graphic novelist’s imagination at work in the world premiere of Drawing Lessons by Michi Barall! Dynamic, jump-off-the-page animation shows Kate’s manhwa storyboards coming together, even as she deals with school, friends, and how her Korean heritage fits into her American lifestyle. Will her contentious friendship with Paul help or hinder her progress? Will either of them ever find their true artistic voices? Get drawn into this innovative story that magically takes place both on stage and on screen! Drawing Lessons is a co-commission with Ma-Yi Theater Company in New York, and marks the first full production of a show developed through the landmark Generation Now partnership between five theatres (Latino Theater Company, Ma-Yi Theater Company, Native Voices, Penumbra, and Children’s Theatre Company). Directed by Jack Tamburri, Drawing Lessons runs from October 8-November 10, 2024 on the Cargill Stage. This production is recommended for middle grade school students and up.

CTC’s beloved holiday smash-hit Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! returns this holiday season after last year’s sold out run. A miserly and miserable, ever-so-cantankerous Grinch has observed the despicable Christmas joy of the Whos with disdain, from a distance, for decades. Enough! In this holiday favorite filled with music and Seussian rhymes, he plots the greatest heist imaginable—stealing the very thing they love the most! Until, that is, the smallest of the Whos, tiny Cindy Lou, extends a hand. Through the combination of kindness and community, we witness not only a change in the course of Who-History, but the size and capacity of the old green guy’s heart. Directed by Dean Holt, this musical favorite runs November 5, 2024-January 5, 2025, on the UnitedHealth Group Stage.

In the new year, nationally acclaimed theatre company Manual Cinema comes to CTC with the Minnesota premiere of Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster based on the books by Mo Willems. Monsters have one job and it's to be SCARY! "Booga booga booga!" But as hard as he tries, Leonardo can't scare even a mouse. When the other monsters laugh and make fun of him, Leonardo goes in search of the most scaredy-cat kid in the whole world to try and scare the tuna salad out of him! Manual Cinema breathes innovative life into this beloved story (and its doubly charming sequel), using hundreds of puppets to magically create a movie before your very eyes. Will Leonardo finally become the scary monster he dreams of being? Or will he discover something even better to be? Inspired by the Books Leonardo, The Terrible Monster and Sam, The Most Scaredy-Cat Kid in the Whole World by Mo Willems, Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster was commissioned by The Kennedy Center for Performing Arts with additional commissioning support from Utah Presents. Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster is best for younger audiences and runs from January 8-March 9, 2025, on the Cargill Stage.

Up next is the CTC-commissioned, rolling world premiere of the new musical Milo Imagines the World, based on the book by Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson and brought to life by book writer Terry Guest and composers and lyricists Christian Albright and Christian Magby. On a crowded subway, Milo passes the time imagining the lives of the other passengers. See his illustrations brought to spirited life, featuring dynamic new songs ranging from hip hop and pop to country. Ride along with Milo from stop to stop as he begins to understand that first impressions aren’t always accurate, that his bossy older sister ReRe isn’t always an annoying diva, and that real life can sometimes be even more incredible than an imaginary one. Milo Imagines the World is a joint commission by The Rose Theater (Omaha, Nebraska), Chicago Children’s Theatre (Chicago, Illinois), and Children’s Theatre Company (Minneapolis, Minnesota). Directed by Mikael Burke, Milo Imagines the World runs from February 4-March 9, 2025, on the United Health Group Stage and is best for all ages.

For the season finale, Disney’s hit Broadway musical Frozen sweeps into Minnesota as Children’s Theatre Company premieres its original production of the hit Broadway musical. Sing along with Elsa, Anna, and the whole cast as they encounter magic that’s out of control, weather that’s fearsome, and Olaf, a snowman who melts your heart. Will Elsa be able to restore the balance between summer and winter? Will she and Anna ever be close again? Settle in for some hygge, a little bit of joiking, and a whole lot of letting go! Nominated for three Tony Awards® including “Best Musical,” Disney’s Frozen is directed by Tiffany Nichole Greene and runs April 15-June 15, 2025, on the UnitedHealth Group Stage. Best for all ages!

Full season subscriptions and renewals for the 2024-2025 Season are now on sale and can be purchased online or by calling the ticket office at 612.874.0400.   

5-Play Full Season Subscriptions range from $185 - $244 for adults and $145 - $206 for kids and seniors. 5- Play Preview Subscriptions are $125 for adults and $75 for kids. Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas! can be added on to any 5-Play subscription for $37-$59 ($15-$25 for Preview.) These prices reflect a 25% discount off of the regular ticket price—one of the benefits of subscription at CTC.

CTC’s 2025-2025 Season of artistic and educational programming is supported by The Shubert Foundation, Inc. and the Minnesota State Arts Board.

April is Arts Month at EaTo, Featuring Events on April 13 and 18

EaTo Offers Two Fun Art Events in April!

On Saturday, April 13, dog owners can make a stylish, personalized dog bowl under the instruction of ceramic artist Krissy Catt, an instructor at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts. Krissy will provide all the supplies needed, including a pre-rolled clay stab, a pattern in three sizes, tools and alphabet pasta for spelling out names and personal messages. The bowls will then be glazed and fired and returned to EaTo in two weeks to be picked up. Cat lovers can make a smaller version for their pet!

Invite your friends and grab a glass of wine to sip during this fun interactive workshop in EaTo's private dining room. Small bites are included.

For more information, go to www.eatompls.com and click on reservations, scroll down to find the class.

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On Thursday, April 18, watercolor artist James Nutt will be in the main dining room from 6-9 p.m. to paint original mini portraits — the original selfies.

Come for dinner and leave with a 4x6 watercolor portrait of yourself, your date or your bottle of wine for just $20. James Nutt is an architect, artist, instructor and constant sketcher. He’ll capture you in his personal, loose style of black ink outlines with blended watercolor paint. Or give him a small bit of your wine or coffee and he’ll paint you in that medium! Each picture will take about 20 minutes and the bonus is you don’t have to stop eating to pose. First come, first drawn. Commissions are paid directly to the artist by cash or Venmo.

Find James in Studio 321 in the Northrup King Building, and you can see his work on Instagram.

March 2024 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a March 29 e-announcement from the City of Minneapolis:

Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis Public Works Department is constructing a new parallel storm tunnel, enlarging a portion of the existing storm tunnel, and constructing a new tunnel access in Downtown Minneapolis.

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

Project Map

Latest Project News

Mississippi River Portal

• Crews continue reconstruction of the storm tunnel outlet at the Mississippi River.

2nd Ave

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

Portland Ave

• Crews continue construction of a concrete liner for the new parallel storm tunnel under Washington Ave from the existing tunnel access shaft at the northeast corner of the Washington Ave and Portland Ave intersection.

* * * Barring any unforeseen issues, major work will be completed at the 2nd Ave and Portland Ave access shafts by mid-June. Traffic will be restored to its preconstruction condition. * * *

Schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Lining progress

Crews continue to work on the concrete tunnel lining, pouring about 800 cubic yards of concrete in the last month. To date 14,300 cubic yards of concrete have been poured. As noted in the infographic above, this is over four times the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 96% complete.

Stay Connected

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

Mill District toWelcome Mexican Restaurant, La Madre, Later This Year

August 2024 opening planned, to include outdoor patio seating along both Washington Avenue and Park Avenue

Sherman Associates and Abe Ponce announce La Madre as the latest restaurant and first Mexican restaurant to join the Mill District neighborhood of Minneapolis. La Madre will serve patrons seeking both a neighborhood taqueria and an elevated downtown dining experience, located on the east corner of Washington Avenue and Park Avenue at 205 Park Avenue. Ponce is the operator of the well-known Mexican street food restaurant and food truck, La Tapatia located in Roseville.

Along with house-made tortillas and tortilla chips made fresh daily, La Madre will have a chef-curated menu providing a modern take on traditional Mexican entrees, small plates, and shareables with plenty of seafood and exotic Mexican cuisine options. The robust drink menu will feature a collection of Mexican-owned tequilas that are hand-selected for their commitment to sustainability and for being additive-free. House cocktails, micheladas, craft beers, seltzers, wine, and Mexican sodas will also be available.

La Madre, meaning “the mother” in Spanish, is both the essence and inspiration of Ponce’s new restaurant and is the woman behind the minority-owned family business. Ponce’s mother and executive chef, Martha Ponce, started the business in 2014 serving Mexican street tacos out of a food trailer in the Greater East Side neighborhood of St. Paul. Operations quickly grew to include the La Tapatia food truck which caters events and serves food at breweries around the Twin Cities. La Tapatia opened its restaurant in Roseville in 2021 and has food stands at Target Field in Section 116 and the Delta Sky360 Club.

"We aim to build a human-centric organization centered on community and empowerment. By creating a sustainable work environment, we can achieve healthier communities by bridging our differences by inviting you to our table to share our common love of tacos,” said Ponce. “La Madre embodies my mom's stubbornness, tenacity, and willpower to be unapologetic and authentically ourselves - a la madre!"

Mirroring the bustling streets of Puerto Vallarta, La Madre will boast a warm and inviting atmosphere that will extend onto its outdoor patio with seating along both Washington Avenue and Park Avenue. The 5,000 SF restaurant will seat 110 guests in the dining room, 19 guests at the bar, and 34 guests in the outdoor patio. An area with bench seating will allow guests to enjoy a drink while waiting for a table.

“Abe's dedication to infusing the menu with his values and passion, evident in every aspect of the customer experience, is truly inspiring,” said Ben Kepple, Director of Commercial Operations at Sherman Associates. “La Madre will provide an all-encompassing experience, perfect for a family outing, catching a sporting event, going on a date, or dining before an event, all while savoring authentic Mexican cuisine. We’re thrilled to partner with Abe and his team.”

La Madre plans to open in August 2024 with hours from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Tuesday through Sunday, opening earlier for brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Reservations can be made at LaMadreMN.com. Walk-ins are accepted and open seating is available at the bar. Parking options include metered street parking and the nearby Mill Quarter and Riverfront Municipal parking ramps.

La Madre will be located on the east corner of Washington Ave and Park Ave at 205 Park Ave.

La Madre will be located at the street level of The Vicinity Apartments, owned and operated by Sherman, and will serve as a unique amenity to residents living at The Vicinity as well as residents and working professionals in the Mill District neighborhood, providing a new restaurant for lunch, happy hour, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Sherman has a reputable multifamily portfolio in the Mill District that supports its commercial tenants like La Madre with a substantial customer base including Encore, East End, Ladder 260 opening in late spring, and O2 opening in early fall, as well as Sherman’s corporate headquarters in the J.I. Case Building.

Follow La Madre on Instagram at @LaMadreMN.

Minneapolis Brewers Among Winners at the 2024 MN Brewers Cup

State-wide blind taste-test organized by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild

On the evening of March 22, the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild announced the results of the MN Brewers Cup, an annual blind taste-test competition for Minnesota breweries and brewpubs.

This year, over 90 breweries submitted nearly 450 entries into the competition. Brews were judged in 23 categories, and they were scored based on quality and adherence to BJCP (Beer Judge Certification Program) style standards.

The top three beers in each category were given awards. All first-place winners then went through another round of judging, and the top three beers were named Best in Show. All awards were announced at an industry-only event on Friday night. The ceremony took place at the Royal Sonesta in downtown Minneapolis in the evening. During the day, the MNCBG also hosted the MN Brewers Conference (co-hosted with the MBAA District St. Paul-Minneapolis). The awards ceremony was a celebratory conclusion to a day full of brewery staff learning from each other and looking forward to the future of craft beer.

The ceremony also included five member-voted award categories. All member brewery and brewpub staff were invited to vote for individuals or businesses in categories that recognize various features of the brewing industry, including collaboration and innovation.

Local winners include:

Best in Show

1st Place: Surly Brewing Co, Axe Man IPA

Specialty Beers

1st Place: Indeed Brewing Company, Mexican Honey Imperial Lager

American Amber, Brown & Pale Ales

3rd Place: Surly Brewing Co, Mosh Pit Juicy Pale Ale

Stouts

2nd Place: Dangerous Man Brewing Co., Dry Irish Stout (shout out, even though they are no longer downtown)

Hazy IPAs

2nd Place: Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative, Lil Haze

American IPAs

1st Place: Surly Brewing Co, Axe Man IPA
2nd Place: Fulton Brewing, Hop Kingdom 300 IPA

Czech Lagers

1st Place: Utepils Brewing Co, Loonar Eclipse

Most Innovative Brewery: Modist Brewing

The full winners list of the 2024 MN Brewers Cup can be found here.

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis Announces a New Series: Mara in Season

With the goal of bringing people together, providing memorable experiences and celebrating each season, Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis announces a new series: Mara in Season presented by RBC Wealth Management. Taking place four times per year, each event features a surprise Hotel experience followed by a collaborative, multi-course tasting menu at Mara where Chef Gavin Kaysen and his team cook with a renowned visiting chef from their open kitchen.

In the inaugural series, Chef Kaysen and team will collaborate with Greg Vernick for A Spring’s Table (May 9, 2024), Nancy Silverton for A Summer’s Table (August 15, 2024) and Tyler Florence for An Autumn’s Table (October 24, 2024). These events, made possible in part by Steelite International, follow A Winter’s Table, which took place on February 1, 2024.

“I am thrilled to be creating a dinner series at Mara, especially one that is tied to the seasons,” says Chef Kaysen. “One of the most exciting ways to cook is by way of how nature is unfolding, and this offering will showcase that alongside the unique personality of each chef. Greg, Nancy and Tyler are not only friends, but incredible chefs who have created magic in their own kitchens. Now, they bring it to us at Mara and in Minneapolis.”

Adds Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis General Manager Florian Riedel, “Since opening, our Hotel has become a place that brings people together and Mara a destination restaurant for life’s celebrations. With this series, we’re building upon these identities as we gather exceptional culinary talent and fresh, seasonal ingredients unique to Minnesota and its ever-evolving landscape.”

Season passes and tickets for A Spring’s Table are available now on Tock. The season pass, which includes beverage pairings and service charge for the next three events, is available now through April 4, 2024, for $1200. In addition, for every pair of season passes purchased, a couple will be gifted one complimentary night at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis; this overnight stay must occur in 2024 and is subject to availability. Individual events, which include beverage pairings and service charge, are priced at $395. Ten percent of the proceeds will be directed toward local business leader Houston White and his cultural impact work to advance diversity, equity and belonging.

Before Mara and Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis opened, the Hotel formed a partnership with White based on shared values and began creating Cultural Collisions: events and experiences that invite people to make new connections, learn from one another and build bridges. This effort kicked off with recruitment-focused open houses in early 2022 and will extend to rooftop events this summer.

About Mara’s Visiting Chefs

• Five years after opening his debut restaurant, Vernick Food & Drink, Philadelphia-based Chef Greg Vernick was recognised by the James Beard Foundation as Best Chef Mid-Atlantic. He has since expanded his enterprise to include Vernick Wine and opened Vernick Coffee Bar and Vernick Fish within Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia.
• Winner of the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Chef award, Chef Nancy Silverton has been called one of the Most Innovative Women in Food & Drink. Co-owner of the Mozza Restaurant Group, which includes Michelin-starred Osteria Mozza, she has authored 11 cookbooks and appeared in Netflix’s Chef’s Table and MasterClass’s G.O.A.T. series. 
• Food Network star Chef Tyler Florence is a content creator, restaurateur and the author of 17 cookbooks. Twice a James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef West Coast, he is the visionary behind acclaimed eateries, including Miller & Lux in Chase Center – named the Bay Area's Best Steakhouse – and Miller & Lux Hualalai within Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

Mississippi Park Connection and the National Park Service Present “Welcome Back the Herons” on March 30

An Annual Celebration of Migratory Wildlife’s Return to Minnesota

As the snow melts and the days grow longer, it's time to welcome back our beloved herons, cormorants, and egrets to their summer sanctuary in Minnesota! After their arduous migratory journey along the Mississippi River, these majestic birds are returning to mark the onset of spring and a season of renewal.

To celebrate this joyous occasion, Mississippi Park Connection and the National Park Service invite you to join them for the annual Welcome Back the Herons event, a festive celebration that brings hundreds of curious people to the rookery to celebrate nature's resilience and beauty. Explore the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area - your national park! This event promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Highlights of the event include:

Birdwatching: Take a leisurely walk to the heron rookery and witness these magnificent birds in action as they build their nests for the breeding season. Get up close and watch our feathered friends as they return to their nesting grounds along the Mississippi River. Experienced birdwatchers will be on hand to guide you through the diverse avian species that call this area home.

Educational Talks: Learn about the incredible journey of these migratory birds through engaging and informative talks led by birding experts and National Park Service park rangers.

S'mores and Bonfire: Experience the joy of bird watching along the Mississippi River while indulging in s'mores around a cozy bonfire. 

“It wasn’t so long ago that a Great Blue Heron was an uncommon sight. Over the last century, their population suffered – first from feather collectors who sought their elegant plumes, then from water pollution and the toxic effects of DDT. Now the herons have returned – tall, stately, elegant birds strutting along the riverbanks. Now they arrive each spring and congregate in great numbers in rookeries along the Mississippi River. They remind us that in the last decades our river has returned too. It now offers a bounty of food – and year after year the herons return to harvest it. At this event, hundreds can be seen in the treetops as they court each other, tend to their young, and lay the groundwork for the coming generations. They remind us how far we’ve come, and show that it’s never too late to begin again.” - Will Mathews, National Park Service 

Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, this event offers something for everyone. Come together with fellow community members to celebrate the return of the herons and embrace the spirit of conservation and stewardship.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, March 30

Time: Drop in anytime between 11 AM - 1 PM 

Location: Marshall Terrace Park, 2740 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418

Admission: Free

For more information and to RSVP, please visit parkconnection.org/events or contact Mississippi Park Connection at 651-291-8164 or info@parkconnection.org.

New Art Exhibit - Form, Figure & Firework - Opens at The Mill Yard April 14

 

Form, Figure & Firework

Opening Reception Sunday, April 14, 4:00 - 6:00PM

Stonebridge Lofts, 1120 S 2nd Street

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

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

Artists featured at this show:

Bob Dylan by Kristi AbbottKristi Abbott, collage

Kristi Abbott is a collage artist. “I am fascinated with the use of color, pattern and texture and try to combine these elements in my work in an innovative and exciting way. My technique is still evolving and employs an exploratory and playful process that can incorporate photography, graphic manipulation, collage and painting.

I also hide images within my paper collages, creating a second level of interest beyond the initial image.” 

50 Marbles by Julie AllenJulie Allen, watercolor

Julie Allen has over 30 years of experience working in the medium of transparent watercolor. Her inspiration frequently comes from observing how subjects capture reflective light, strong values and color. From her experience, watercolor allows an artist to glaze on many layers of color to paper and still retain the beautiful reflective light. Her style of painting would be classified as contemporary realism. Julie teaches workshops at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts as well as offering private lessons in her home. Her award-winning work has been published and exhibited in numerous exhibitions regionally and internationally.

Epipelagic by Alexandria Mooney JonesAlexandria Mooney Jones, firework

Firework artist Alexandria Mooney Jones has always been drawn toward experimental mediums. Thanks in large part to a mother who was an art teacher, Alex learned to see artistic potential in everything. During the summer of 2007 a simple suggestion to deal with a difficult project was the spark that has ignited her body of work experimenting with pyrotechnics, a.k.a. fireworks, as an artistic medium. Her work is at the mercy of explosives and fire. Fireworks, as a medium, represent the tension between celebration and trauma. Every mark, every color is created with a lit firework. Artwork that proves there is beauty in the experimental, beauty in the uncontrollable, and sometimes even beauty in trauma.

Bleeding Hearts in the Wind by Solvei StohlSolvei Stohl, photography and linocut prints

In the mid 1970s Solvei Stohl studied painting and design as well as black and white photography. In the early 1980s she developed her own style of art photography. She and her husband worked in eastern Europe for over 20 years, returning to the Twin Cities in 2013. While living in Lithuania she was inspired by her surroundings and did a lot of street photography, which she came to love. She is drawn to the lighting and design of a scene and is truly satisfied when her finished print could be mistaken for a painting. In 2019 Solvei began doing Linocut printmaking, rekindling her love of drawing.

House on Laurel by Peter StohlPeter Stohl, ink and watercolor

Peter Stohl favors realism and prefers to work on paper employing a technique he developed of combining watercolor and ink hatching. He likes the texture of the ink hatching, he can achieve rich, dark tones that he cannot create with watercolor alone. He portrays everyday life and often sees his scenes as still lifes. He is drawn to the design, color, light and shadows of a particular scene, and finds it refreshing to recreate this atmosphere or mood on paper.

Donna Ray, ceramics

Donna Ray is a differently abled ceramic/potter/sculpture artist. She has been a ceramic artist for over 20 years and is a resident studio artist at Northern Clay Center. Donna has been exhibiting since 2010. She has curated solo shows, been awarded numerous grants, and held artist residencies. Her recent second solo show was at the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum. Donna enjoys hand building and wheel throwing to create useful sculptural art.

Donna is a talented artist from Art for All, the Stephanie Evelo Program for Art Inclusion at the University of Minnesota’s Institute for Community Integration, which supports the work of emerging and professional artists with disabilities.

Take Advantage of This Opportunity to Learn About Work and Research Happening at UMN

Kate Schaefers, Ph.D., LP, Director, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), University of Minnesota College of Continuing and Professional Studies, invites you to experience the OLLI At-the-U Lecture Series this spring. They are opening it up to the public to provide interested parties a taste of OLLI. Beyond individual participation, they are also open to giving communities live streaming access - so if you live in a condo or apartment building with a community center, you can enjoy the series as a group!

51st Twin Cities Auto Show is March 30 - April 7

The Twin Cities Auto Show is the place to compare hundreds of new vehicles in every category - sedans, compacts, SUVs, trucks, EVs, luxury cars - from domestic and imported brands all under one roof without driving to dealerships around town, including new makes and models that can’t be found on dealer lots. The Twin Cities Auto Show is presented by Kwik Trip.

*  *  *  * What’s New in 2024 *  *  *  *

Celebrity Appearance: Meet Constance Nunes of Netflix’s “Car Master: Rust to Riches” Saturday, March 30 (11 a.m. and 2 p.m.) and Sunday, March 31 (12 p.m. and 3 p.m.) in the Custom Garage. Constance stars as the lead mechanic on the Netflix original series, “Car Master: Rust to Riches,” where she has helped the team at Gotham Garage build unique specialty cars for five seasons with a sixth currently in production.

Cars Against Crime™ Display of Movie and TV Cars - Cars Against Crime utilizes a world class collection of movie cars and television cars. These crime fighting vehicles serve as tools to enhance events, create memories, and bring joy to the community. Organizations supported in 2024 include Wills for Heroes, Metro Critical Incident Stress Management, Crimestoppers, and Frontline Foundation. The Twin Cities Auto Show is hosting this fantastic display to encourage donations to Cars Against Crime in support of our brave public safety professionals.

Adrenaline Avenue - This display is your license to dream, your invitation to step into the driver’s seat and feel luxury at its finest.  Immerse yourself in the power, style, and exhilaration that define some of the world’s most coveted vehicles.

Get Your Auto Show Tickets at Kwik Trip – Kwik Trip will sell Twin Cities Auto Show tickets at select stores around the Twin Cities. Tickets sold at Kwik Trip stores will be $6 off the at-the-door price of $17. Kwik Rewards members may have the chance for additional perks. Plus, attendees will be able to register onsite every day of the show to win FREE fuel for a year, compliments of Kwik Trip. No purchase necessary.

*  *  *  *  Show Highlights *  *  *  *

Twice as big as years past, the 2024 Electric Vehicle Neighborhood and the Electric Garage powered by Xcel Energy will be charged up with experts, the latest in electric vehicle technology, and information to help potential EV buyers make their decision to plug in.

The life-size Xcel Energy Garage allows you to see how low-impact and convenient electric vehicle ownership can be, especially when you can charge your vehicle right in your own garage. We look forward to sharing this demonstration with attendees and helping them make an informed decision about electric mobility.

Sign up to test drive one or more EVs in which a professional driver will acquaint attendees with the vehicle and ride along on your test drive. Routes have been pre-determined to make it a convenient and comfortable experience. Manufacturers offering test drives include Ford (Mustang and Lightning), Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Polestar.

Attendees can also register to win a fresh-and-foldable Honda Motocompacto, the new ultra-compact e-scooter which becomes its own lightweight, compact, and stackable carrying case.

Legendary Meteorologist Paul Douglas is back as the Electric Vehicle spokesperson for the Twin Cities Auto Show. An EV owner himself, Paul offers intelligent insight into the EV products available.

The 2024 Car of the Show is the Honda Pilot. The Pilot is the largest and most powerful SUV in Honda history and will be on display at the show entrance, in the Convention Center concourse, and within the Honda display.

Luxury Lane is bigger than ever this year! The display has established itself as a must-see for both automotive enthusiasts as well as casual car fans. Discover some of Minnesota’s finest and most lavish vehicles.

Subaru will be hosting dog adoptions as a part of their Subaru Loves Pets Campaign. The dogs will be from Midwest Animal Rescues and Services, a local organization committed to the awareness and support of homeless dogs and cats.

At the Custom Garage sponsored by Automotive Concepts, attendees can find ways to make cars as unique as possible. Whether they dream of sleek luxury, rugged off-road capability, or cutting-edge technology, we’re here to help customize new vehicles to perfectly suit any lifestyle.

The Unique Classic Cars room is sponsored by Unique Classic Cars of Mankato. Step back in time and explore a fantastic collection of classic cars. Immerse into automotive history as attendees wander among meticulously restored vintage vehicles, each with its own story to tell.

Minnesota State Patrol Troopers will be on hand to talk about their mission to keep people safe on the roads. The troopers will have some of their squad cars on view, including a 1954 Ford and 1979 Dodge St. Regis.

*  *  *  * Special Events *  *  *  * 

Minnesota Broadcasters Association New Car & Truck Awards: Saturday, March 30 The 12 award categories include: Electric Vehicle, Hybrid Electric Vehicle, Subcompact & Compact Car, Midsize & Large Car, Luxury Car, Luxury SUV, Full Size Pick-up Truck, Compact/Mid-Size Pickup, Large SUV, Mid-Size SUV, Mini Van & Van, and Best in Show.This event will be held in the Electric Vehicle Neighborhood and hosted by Paul Douglas.

Military Appreciation Night: Tuesday, April 2. On this 10th annual Military Appreciation Night, all active military and veterans will receive FREE entry to the Twin Cities Auto Show courtesy of Toyota. Guests and family members accompanying military professionals will receive $7 off admission. A ceremony will be held at 7 p.m., in the Toyota display, complete with color guard and the singing of “The National Anthem.” On behalf of the GMADA, the Twin Cities Auto Show will present donations to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of Minnesota and the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MAC-V).

Career in Cars Day: Wednesday, April 3 from 10am – 2pm. The Minnesota Auto Dealers Association (MADA) is once again hosting a day dedicated to showcasing the careers available in the retail auto industry for young adults and job seekers. Anyone interested in attending can sign up on the Auto Show website. Those who register in advance will receive a special credential, free admission to the Twin Cities Auto Show, and a complimentary Auto Show t-shirt (while supplies last).

“Survivor” Casting Call: Thursday, April 4 from 4 – 9pm. Join WCCO and the Twin Cities Auto Show for an open casting call. This is Minnesota’s to apply for the adventure of a lifetime.

Auto Show After Dark: Friday, April 5 beginning at 6pm. On this evening, we turn down the show lights and illuminate the show floor with headlights, running lights, interior lights – all to produce a brilliant nighttime atmosphere.

LOCATION: Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Avenue S

DATES: Saturday, March 30 through April 7, 2024

HOURS: Fridays, Saturdays, Wednesday, Thursday 10am–9pm / Monday and Tuesday 4pm–9pm / Sunday 10am–7pm.

TICKETS: Adults (16+) $13 online ($17 onsite); Teens (11 – 15) $6; Children 10 and under FREE

Military Appreciation - Tuesday, April 2 FREE for Vets and Current Military. $7 off for Family and Friends

Half-Price Wednesday (April 3) $8.50. $3 off coupons are available at GMADA metro member auto dealerships.

Sign up to be a Doors Open Minneapolis Volunteer Greeter!

Open Doors Minneapolis Returns May 18 and 19, and volunteers are needed!

As a volunteer, you will assist in executing Doors Open Minneapolis in 2024. Doors Open Minneapolis is a weekend-long event that gives the public a chance to explore the buildings that tell our city’s story. From theaters to business hubs, sacred spaces to private clubs, sports complexes to engineering wonders, historical gems to not-even-open-yet buildings, Doors Open Minneapolis will give visitors a free behind-the-scenes look at dozens of exciting venues. Your role as a Greeter Volunteer will make this event function smoothly and easily.

Volunteers are stationed at one of several venues within the city of Minneapolis. The time commitment is a minimum of 4 hours on either Saturday May 18 or Sunday May 19, between the hours of 9:30am and 5:30pm.

Responsibilities: 

• Welcome Doors Open Minneapolis attendees to the venue and count them as they enter. 

• Encourage attendees to register for Doors Open Minneapolis. Attendees will register via a mobile QR code or weblink and will be entered in a raffle to win prizes. Distribute stickers to attendees. Assist with flow of foot traffic. Answer general questions about the event. 

• Attend one mandatory volunteer information session in late April/early May. Multiple sessions (in-person and virtual) will be scheduled for your convenience. 

Details: 

• Doors Open Minneapolis will take place 10am – 5pm on May 18 & 19, 2024. Dozens of venues (businesses & buildings) are anticipated to participate. 

• Two volunteers will be stationed at each venue for the duration of the event's operating hours.  

• Greeter Volunteers will sign up for one or more 4-hour shifts. Shifts are 9:30 am - 1:30 pm and 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm. 

• Rethos is the coordinating entity for Doors Open Minneapolis, but works with the City of Minneapolis, American Institute of Architects, and many more local partners to produce this event. 

Benefits: 

• You will receive a pass that allows you priority access at venues, allowing you to skip venue lines for the duration of the event. 

• You will receive a free Doors Open Minneapolis t-shirt. 

• You get to choose the venue you volunteer at, and you can sign up with a friend. 

• You will be invited to a post-event volunteer appreciation party that includes food and beverage.

Volunteer!