The Big Tiny Show, a Juried Group Exhibition at Kolman & Reeb Gallery, January 13 – February 3, 2024

Artist Reception Saturday, January 20, 2024, 6:00pm–8:00pm

The Kolman & Reeb Gallery is excited to ring in 2024 by showcasing art created by over 50 artists from across Minnesota with a juried group exhibition, The Big Tiny Show, Saturday, January 13 through February 3, 2024.

From its inception, the Kolman & Reeb Gallery has focused on ways to support Minnesota artists. This juried group show allowed the prestigious Minneapolis gallery to expand on this mission with a call inviting artists to submit their work to be considered for this show regardless of subject matter, media, and expression. The tremendous response shows Minnesota artists are passionate to share their unique perspectives.

From tried-and-true oil on canvas to pine needles and artificial sinew, gallery patrons can expect an inspiring and diverse exhibition. Adopting its name from the guideline that no one piece of art can be larger than 12 inches, The Big Tiny Show involves a variety of subject matter and media. With the varied assortment, the depth of the show has allowed for an innovative and contemporary curation.

Per Anita Sue Kolman, Kolman & Reeb Gallery co-founder and co-partner, “What excites me about this show is the opportunity it provides the Kolman & Reeb Gallery to suspend its usual aesthetic and instead display artwork from a wide variety of Minnesota artists regardless of medium, subject, style.” 

Jodi Reeb, gallery curator and co-partner, added, “With this show Anita and I were eager to open the call to all media types and expressions. The results were overwhelming, and we received a significant response from Minnesota artists interested in showing their work. Our panel of judges was delighted by the superior quality of the art submitted. We’re eager for our patrons to come and view the diverse collection from across Minnesota. Opening the call to all types of media offered me a unique experience as the show’s curator."

All are invited to come and view this interesting blend of styles and range of talent from this large assortment of artists. All art on display during The Big Tiny Show will be available for purchase.

Kolman & Reeb Gallery is in Studio 395, Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson Street NE.

Downtown Beneath Stone Arch by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Downtown Beneath Stone Arch

This is a composite of a photograph of the Stone Arch Bridge and a photograph of Downtown Minneapolis as seen from the University Walking Bridge. But of course this blended image is not what you see when you cross that bridge. The City, which abuts the Mississippi River is in the river in this image and the Stone Arch Bridge, which connects the City and St. Anthony Main, now stands over the City. Along the way of editing the images, I discarded two or three versions that just did not work well. I went through a lot of experimentation, applying various blend modes, different levels of opacity and a number of masks to get a look I was pleased with. It is colorful and it is busy. It draws me in.

You can see more of my work at ricrosowphotography.com and Price Krishnan Gallery.

Firefighters 12th Annual Gift Delivery to Hennepin Healthcare Burn Center Patients

For the 12th year in a row, firefighters and volunteers spread some holiday cheer by delivering gifts to Hennepin Healthcare Burn Center patients and provided meals for the frontline staff.

The Burn Center at Hennepin Healthcare is nationally recognized for its expertise in treating burn patients of all ages. Staffed by specially trained burn care nurses and physicians, the inpatient unit and ambulatory care clinic provide comprehensive burn care to patients from throughout the Midwest. 

On the morning of December 21, wrapped gifts for each Burn Center patient arrived via fire trucks. As volunteers lined the sidewalk to wave to the patients peering from the 4th floor windows, nurses and staff waited curbside with carts ready to transport gifts from the rig to the Burn Unit.

Above, the prep. Below, the delivery.

What a group of amazing human beings!

“This annual tradition of bringing gifts to the Burn Center patients started the year I was a patient in 2010,” explains former Minneapolis firefighter and burn patient Jake LaFerriere who is the Founder and Executive Director of Firefighters For Healing. “My world changed overnight when I survived a backdraft explosion. Those who helped me through the darkest days were my family, close friends, the nurses and fire community. The first Christmas Blessing in 2010 was my way to thank the nurses and Burn Center teams for all they do. It was a blessing to me to be able to pay it forward. I wanted to provide the burn survivors and their families with a reason to smile and feel joy. It truly aligns with the reason for the season and helps families know they are not alone.”

“Helping families through the multiple stages of grief and healing is what we do. Each year as this gifting event has grown and impacted more families and new frontline staff, they repeatedly tell us that this simple act of kindness means the world to them,” said Jake LaFerriere. “Donating to Firefighters For Healing supports our mission to support burn survivor families and injured firefighters. Visit firefightersforhealing.org.”

Firefighters For Healing supports burn survivors and helps firefighters and first responders pivot after a line of duty injury by providing emergency housing and support.They meet and serve families 24/7 and 365 days a year from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. This non-profit 501(C)(3) charitable organization thrives on community partnerships, volunteer support and fundraising events.

If you're not familiar with Firefighters for Healing, here are two short videos that will introduce you to the founder, Jake LaFerriere, as well as one of their numerous achievements, the creation of Camp Red.

Miller Lite’s Free Rides Program Returns to the Twin Cities for New Year’s Eve!

Molson Coors extends its 35-year commitment to responsible celebrations into 2024

Twin Cities residents are encouraged to plan their free ride before the countdown to midnight begins. Riders can visit http://metrotransit.org/ to review transit routes and make arrangements for their journey into 2024.

As anticipation builds for the countdown to midnight, Molson Coors is helping Twin Cities residents celebrate the holiday season by offering complimentary mass transit on New Year’s Eve through its 2023 Miller Lite Free Rides program. Partnering with Metro Transit, residents can enjoy fare-free rides on Sunday, December 31 from 6pm until the end of service on all Metro Transit routes and The Northstar Line.

“As we embrace the new year, Molson Coors remains committed to championing alcohol responsibility in the communities it serves. It’s an honor to contribute to the night’s festivities across the Twin Cities and welcome in 2024 together,” said Alison Hanrahan, community affairs manager, Molson Coors. “By partnering with Metro Transit our hope is to not only provide free rides, but to foster a sense of community and responsibility as we collectively celebrate this new chapter.”

Since its inception in 1988, the Free Rides program has been a cornerstone of Molson Coors' commitment to promoting responsible celebrations. Through collaborative efforts with local mass transit, the program has extended fare-free rides to more than 8 million individuals across the U.S., with more than 200,000 riders benefiting from the program in the Twin Cities alone.

During last year’s New Year’s Eve Free Rides in the Twin Cities, nearly 18,000 individuals took advantage of complimentary transit to welcome in the new year.

“Metro Transit is pleased to partner with Molson Coors to offer free rides across our system, providing loyal and first-time riders alike another reason to make transit a part of their New Year’s experience,” said Metro Transit General Manager Lesley Kandaras.

The New Year’s Eve Free Rides program concludes this year’s annual Free Rides initiative. This year, the program was offered in nine cities over the course of five events including St. Patrick’s Day, major holidays and professional sporting events. Molson Coors has expanded the Free Rides program over the past two years, providing increased access to free transportation options and reinforcing the company’s commitment to the communities it serves. 

Meet New Ward 7 Council Member Katie Cashman, January 16

A conversation with newly elected Ward 7 Council Member, Katie Cashman

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Tuesday, January 16, 2024

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8:00am - 9:30am at Minneapolis College.

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RSVP by January 15

December 2023 Minneapolis Central City Tunnel Project Update

Via a December 22 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; excavation activities are almost complete.

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.

Lining progress

In November, crews continued to work on the concrete tunnel lining, pouring about 1,450 cubic yards of concrete. To date 12,750 cubic yards of concrete have been poured. As noted in the infographic above, this is just under four times the volume of an Olympic swimming pool. This process is approximately 90% complete.

Long-term closures/restrictions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to expect

• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.
• Schedule is tentative and subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.
• Working hours will vary in the coming weeks due to the holiday and scheduled training.
• The next project update will be in February 2024.

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

C.R.E.A.M Cafe Announces December 26 Grand Opening in the Mill District

Mmmmm - yes, please!  Photo provided

C.R.E.A.M Cafe's Grand Opening is set for December 26

Soul Bowl founders Brittney and Gerard Klass are launching their two next concepts in the former Smith & Porter restaurant space at 428 S 2nd Street.

The first of those two endeavors is C.R.E.A.M Cafe. This coffee haven promises locals an immersive experience - blending the rich warmth of artisanal coffees, a medley of delightful teas, and an array of delectable food options.

Gerard Klass, photo credit Becky Fillinger

The Grand Opening celebration is set for December 26th. The Klass' welcome the community to join them for a day of festivities, exclusive tastings, and a chance to experience the lively spirit of C.R.E.A.M (Coffee Rules Everything Around Me) Cafe.

Nestled in the heart of Minneapolis' Mill District, C.R.E.A.M Cafe invites patrons to discover a refreshing and upbeat atmosphere tailored for those seeking a delightful escape from the daily grind. With a commitment to creating more than just a coffee destination, the space is designed to be a vibrant social hub for friends, family, and community members alike.

Honey Lavender Matcha, photo provided 

What will you experience at this new Mill District cafe?

Artisanal Brews Savor the rich and aromatic notes of carefully selected coffee beans, expertly brewed to perfection by skilled baristas. Fall in love with something new - a signature winter coffee flights. 

Tea Enthusiast's Paradise Immerse yourself in the custom combinations of shaken teas, from classic blends to exotic infusions. C.R.E.A.M Cafe's tea selection caters to both traditionalists and adventurous palates.

Culinary Delights Elevate your coffee experience with a menu curated to satisfy every craving. From local delectable pastries to savory bites, the culinary offerings complement an extensive beverage selection. Offering breakfast all day, plus a lunch menu with an array of soups, sandwiches, salads and flatbreads. 

Upbeat Atmosphere Bask in the vibrant and inviting ambiance that sets the stage for memorable conversations, relaxation, and shared moments. Perfect for a meeting, co-working, or a quick pick-me-up in the middle of a busy work day.

And...Stay tuned for more information on the Klass' second concept, Klassics Kitchen + Cocktails, launching early 2024!

Dramatic Sunrise by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Dramatic Sunrise

When I walked out into our living room on December 15th I saw this amazing sky. The upper sky was dark, with gray, purple and black tones. The lower sky red. The Mississippi River reflected the color in the sky. I ran to my office to get my camera, leaving the tripod behind and took a number of shots before the clouds and the entire sky changed. This time I was lucky. I wonder why I just don't leave the camera in the living room on its tripod.

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

Free Disaster Preparedness Training Offered at Central Library in January

Sign up now for a free two-day training in January to help make you more confident, prepared and secure in a natural or human-caused disaster.

In Ready Camp, you’ll learn about:

• Making an emergency preparedness kit
• Emergency alerts
• Severe weather
• Planning for medical needs
• Staying in contact with your family
• Protecting your pets

You will also learn ways to store water and emergency food supplies, create first aid and survival kits, make a list of affordable and recommended emergency items, and get examples of equipment and devices that can help in surviving a disaster.

Ready Camp will feature industry experts related to the fields of safety, health and wellness, and emergency preparedness. Food will be provided at no cost.

Plan to join both sessions:

Free two-day Ready Camp
4:45pm-8pm January 23-24
Minneapolis Central Library, 300 Nicollet Mall

Register online

Here's What’s Happening in Downtown December 21-27

The mpls downtown calendar is packed with events and activities throughout the holiday season. Here is a preview of what’s ahead over the next week.

* * * * * Takeaways This Weekend * * * * * 

This holiday week is the perfect time to head downtown for a show! “A Christmas Carol” continues at the Guthrie, “Mrs. Doubtfire” is at Orpheum Theatre, “Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy” is at the State Theatre, and “All I Want for Christmas is You…to Elf Off” continues at the Dudley Riggs Theatre.

The Minnesota Timberwolves hope to take down the NBA In-Season Tournament Champion Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. Plus, the Minnesota Vikings look to keep their playoff hopes alive with a win against the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

For those hoping to eat out over the holidays, check out our list of restaurants that will be open down below!

Don’t forget about Holidays on Nicollet! There are pop-up shops featuring nearly 70 locally owned small businesses, plus 10 window displays along Nicollet, featuring holiday designs created by local artists. The Holidays on Nicollet experience runs every weekend through January 5. Great visuals and interview opportunities all month. Plus, you can find great musical performances over the lunch hour on select dates at Capella Tower, IDS Center, City Center, and U.S. Bank Plaza.

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

* * * * * Don’t Miss * * * * * 

Winter Warm-Up – Thursday & Tuesday | U.S. Bank Stadium

Peabo Bryson & Haley Reinhart: Home for the Holidays – Thursday & Friday | Dakota

Timberwolves vs. Lakers – Thursday | Target Center

A Swingin’ Christmas w/ The Andrew Walesch Big Band – Saturday | Dakota

* * * * * Thursday, December 21 * * * * * 

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

Winter Warm-Up | 5 p.m. – U.S. Bank Stadium

Peabo Bryson & Haley Reinhart: Home for the Holidays | 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 7 p.m. – State Theatre

Mrs. Doubtfire | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

‘Art’ | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

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

Timberwolves vs. Lakers | 8:00 p.m. – Target Center

* * * * * Friday, December 22 * * * * * 

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

Mrs. Doubtfire | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

Peabo Bryson & Haley Reinhart: Home for the Holidays | 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 7 p.m. – State Theatre 

‘Art’ | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

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

Emo Nite | 8 p.m. – First Avenue

* * * * * Saturday, December 23 * * * * * 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 1 p.m. & 5 p.m. – State Theatre

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

‘Art’ | 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

Mrs. Doubtfire | 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

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

A Swingin’ Christmas w/ The Andrew Walesch Big Band | 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. – Dakota

* * * * * Sunday, December 24 * * * * * 

Vikings vs. Lions | 12 p.m. – U.S. Bank Stadium

Mrs. Doubtfire | 1 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

Christmas Eve at Mara | 5 – 9:30 p.m. – Mara

* * * * * Monday, December 25 * * * * * 

Christmas Day at Mara | 11 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. – Mara

The Bad Plus | 5 p.m. & 7 p.m. – Dakota

* * * * * Tuesday, December 26 * * * * * 

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

Winter Warm-Up | 5 p.m. – U.S. Bank Stadium

The Bad Plus | 6:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

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

* * * * * Wednesday, December 27 * * * * * 

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

The Bad Plus | 6:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m. – Dakota

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

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

* * * * * Weekly Happenings * * * * * 

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

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

Holidays on Nicollet Pop-Up Holiday Stores | 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Various Locations (Tuesdays through Saturdays)

Holiday Under Glass Concert Series | 12 – 1 p.m. – IDS Center Crystal Court (Tuesdays – Thursdays)

Live Holiday Music | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – U.S. Bank Plaza (Tuesdays – Thursdays)

Farmer’s Market | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Lyndale Avenue (Saturdays and Sundays)

Nordic Village Market | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis (Saturdays and Sundays)

Handmade Holiday Market | 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Lakes & Legends Brewing Company (Saturdays and Sundays)

* * * * * Restaurants Open During the Holidays * * * * * 

Mara | Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day

Giulia | Christmas Day

Manny’s Steakhouse | Christmas Day

Breva Bar & Grill | Christmas Day, New Year’s Day

Butcher & The Boar | New Year’s Eve

Spoon & Stable | New Year’s Eve

Borough | New Year’s Eve

Guacaya Bistreaux | New Year's Eve

Dakota | Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year’s Day 

Meet Minneapolis Clothing Drive in Support of Hennepin Healthcare Patients in Need - Accepting Donations thru January 12

Help to warm hands, feet and hearts!

Meet Minneapolis is hosting a clothing drive in support of Hennepin Healthcare patients in need. Some of these children and teens are foster children needing full outfits upon discharge, some adults need cold weather relief items or warmer layers than they arrived with. Our wish lists outline the new, tags on items being accepted.

“Clothing is one way we show compassion. We strive to ensure patients have the essentials they need.”                               Jess, Hennepin Healthcare Social Worker

Needed Items / Where / When / How:

For questions contact Ka Vang at 612-767-8156 or email kav@minneapolis.org

The Curtis Hotel: Where the Guest is King

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

During a time before giant hotel chains dominated the hospitality industry in major cities, Minneapolis was full of independent, successful hotels. There was The Nicollet, The West, The Drake and The Sheridan, but in this article, I will discuss one of the more iconic hotels, The Curtis Hotel.

This story starts with a family named Curtis from Portland, Maine. Theodore Lincoln Curtis, a ship builder, and Esther Curtis had seven children, the third of whom was Theodore F. Curtis, born in 1854. A year later, the Curtis Family moved to St. Anthony looking for more manufacturing work as the small village was quickly growing. The elder Theodore built very large flat-bottomed barges along a low spot on the Mississippi’s shoreline at what would later be known as Bohemian Flats. Among other construction jobs, he also worked on the first iteration of the Nicollet Hotel.

During this time, the younger Theodore worked his way through school at Central High. At the age of nineteen, his father passed away, and his mother sold the family lot, a block of property along Third Avenue North between Fourth and Fifth Streets, for $18,000, almost $390,000 after inflation. The developers who bought the land promptly split it up and sold the smaller lots for over $100,000 total, or over $2,150,000 today. This was an eye-opening experience for Theodore, and it was at that moment when he saw the real estate potential for the swiftly growing City of Minneapolis.

Once Theodore F. Curtis gained more wealth from buying land and building houses along the city’s border and apartments around downtown, he ventured into the lodging business. In the center of the block between Tenth and Eleventh Streets South and Third and Fourth Avenues South, Theodore bought a lot and constructed the first building of Curtis Court in 1903. Each suite featured a parlor room, bathroom, and kitchenette. Eight years later in 1911, Theodore bought more properties on the block and constructed the first of two towers. In 1919, he finally had the opportunity to purchase the last lot on the block, then owned by Alexander Boyd who bought it from Fred C. Pillsbury, and erected the second tower. In 1920, the name changed to The Curtis Hotel, and it would see much success for decades to come.

Postcard with a photo of the main restaurant taken in 1920

John Willy of The Hotel Monthly magazine wrote about his visit to The Curtis Hotel in 1924. “First of the kitchenette apartments has developed into a modern, first class, transient and residential hotel of more than eight hundred rooms; and to be still further enlarged.” After gloating about the amazing features of the hotel, he lists a typical menu with prices. Here are a few that stood out to me:

Bluepoint cocktail - 50¢

Green corn on the cob - 25¢

Half spring chicken, fried, country style - 90¢

Fried frog legs, breaded, julienne potatoes, tartar sauce - 75¢

Appetizing lamb chops, broiled, French fried potatoes - 75¢

Filet mignon, fresh mushroom sous cloche - $1.25

Fresh apple pie, Orange cream pie - All pies 15¢ per cut

The Curtis in 1940

Guests and a bellhop, 1948

The Curtis in 1958

At its peak, The Curtis Hotel featured the Mesabi Coffee Shop, barber and beauty shops, a gym, a post office, ballrooms, a luxurious dining room, and three music venues, to list a few. The Turquoise Lounge, the Garden Lounge, and the Cardinal Room showcased acts from pianists to big bands, including nightly performances by Dick Long’s Orchestra. In the 1950s, the hotel decided to open up the Curtis Motor Lodge, an inner-city suburban motel with two pools, one indoors and one outdoors.

The Curtis Motor Lodge, 1960

The Tropical Indoor Pool, 1970

By 1984, The Curtis Hotel had run its course. The Curtis family ran one of the more popular hotels in Minneapolis for over eight decades, but it was time for a new beginning.

The hotel complex was demolished and was replaced with an office building. It is currently the headquarters for Sleep Number. At least there’s some continuity. A city block that once housed a popular hotel with well over 800 beds is now home to one of the world’s most popular mattress brands.

Minneapolis Restaurants Are Here For You on Christmas Day!

Eater Twin Cities has compiled a list of Twin Cities restaurants who look forward to hosting your Christmas day meal: https://twincities.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-open-christmas-day-minneapolis-st-paul. 

In Minneapolis, look for Mara Restaurant and Nordic Village at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, Nicollet Island Inn, Breva Bar & Grill, Manny's Steakhouse and more. Click on the above link for more details!

Minneapolis Public Works is Hiring

As recently announced in a City of Minneapolis e-newsletter:

Join the teams that keep the city running. Many of the positions include paid on-the-job training.

Apply if you’re 18 or older with a valid driver’s license, fluent in English and open to working in all weather. We have opportunities for you whether you’re skilled or need paid on-the-job training.

Job openings in Public Works include:

• Public Works service worker trainee. This position performs manual labor and learns to drive and operate equipment. You’d support the department’s construction and maintenance activities. You will be supported in obtaining your CDL Class B license.
• Public Works service worker 1. This position performs manual labor and drives and operates equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Public Works service worker 2. This position performs manual labor and drives and operates heavy specialty equipment to support construction and maintenance work.
• Water distribution operator trainee. This position performs manual labor to maintain the City’s water distribution system.
• Water distribution operator. This position performs manual labor and semi-skilled work to maintain the City’s water distribution system.
• Automotive mechanic. This position maintains and repairs the City’s fleet of vehicles and machinery including snowplows.

Find online and in-person information sessions on the City website.

Read about these jobs and find out how to apply on the City website.

Apply on the City website by January 14, 2024.

Theatre in the Round announces a New Adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s Classic, The Seagull, Jan 12 - Feb 4

Theatre in the Round Presents The Seagull by Anton Chekhov, adapted and directed by Craig Johnson

January 12 to February 4 - Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP) continues their 72nd Season with Anton Chekhov’s classic The Seagull, adapted and directed by Craig Johnson, running weekends January 12 through February 4 with a Monday Pay-What-You-Can performance on January 22. 

Set in a rural estate in Russia, this classic play explores the complicated relationships between a group of artists, including an aging actress, her lover - a famous writer, and her son- a struggling playwright. As dreams of greatness, artistic passion, and languishing talent become tangled into their romantic affairs, the play raises deep questions about the nature of love, art, and the human experience. This new adaptation captures all the humor and pathos of Chekhov’s classic play with a fresh tone for contemporary audiences.

Craig Johnson directs the ten-member cast with sets designed by Michael Hoover, costumes by Claire Looker, lighting by Andrew Vance, props by Kris Schmidt, and sound design by Dietrich Poppen.

An audience discussion with the cast and director will be held immediately after the performance on Sunday, January 28.

Tickets are $25. For information, call the theatre’s box office at 612-333-3010 or visit its website.

Small Business Spotlight: Zhora Darling

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Zhora Darling, 509 First Avenue NE, occupies the former Red Stag Supperclub location. With 6000 s.f. of total space and a 200-person performance area – it has room to make waves in the local dining and entertainment scenes. We spoke to owner, Eric Odness, about the inspiration for the name of the business, the menu and what we can expect in the short term as the business takes root.

Q:  Please tell us the concept of Zhora Darling.

A:  Zhora is a character from the movie Bladerunner and she has a pet snake named Darling. I combined the two names to come up with our name. The place was visually inspired by the movie as well. I’m not necessarily trying to make it look like the movie, just inspired by Director Ridley Scott’s vibe.

Q:  Can you describe the menu offerings to us?

A:  The menu comes from our friend’s restaurant in Brooklyn, NY where I spent the better part of the last two decades. We teamed up with 5 Leaves to bring the food I loved most from that area to Minneapolis. Easiest way to describe it as American fare with an Australian twist. We actually brought their menu to Minneapolis.

Fried Artichokes with Green Tahini

Devils on Horseback (Bacon Wrapped Medjool Dates)

House Cured Norwegian Salmon

The Lifeboat - Earl Grey gin, turmeric, lemon, honey and mintZhora Darling is basically a rock n roll bar with some nice food. Starting last month, our 200-capacity music venue kicked into action with music that will mainly land in the rock/metal band world. We’ve learned very quickly that some people are coming in expecting it to be like the prior business that was in this space and there has been some shock that it’s not at all the same. We’re not a supper club! It’s a younger crowd with fairly loud music in the bar lounge area and bit more subdued vibes in the dining area. Our kitchen will stay open until 1 AM – come on by for some food!

Q:  Sounds like a fun place to visit. How may we best follow your news?

A:  The best way to follow us is on Instagram @zhoradarling. Our menu and news will be on our website at www.zhoradarling.com.

Table reservations may be made on OpenTable.

Here's What’s Happening in Downtown December 14 – 20

The mpls downtown calendar is packed with events and activities throughout the holiday season. Here is a preview of what’s ahead over the next week. 

 *  *  *  *  * Takeaways This Weekend *  *  *  *  *

Fans of Holidazzle won’t want to miss the Minni Dazzle Thursday through Sunday at the Fulton Beer Taproom. This holiday hub will offer a variety of festive experiences including local vendors, live music, free Santa visits from 5–7pm on Friday and Saturday, games, activities, and more! 

There is also an incredible variety of holiday happenings downtown this weekend. Check out the holiday shows at Orchestra Hall, The Cowles Center, Dakota, and others. 

The top team in the NBA Western Conference, the Minnesota Timberwolves, are back home for a game on Saturday night against the Pacers. Plus, Mrs. Doubtfire comes to Orpheum Theatre next week! 

Don’t forget about Holidays on Nicollet! There are pop-up shops featuring nearly 70 locally owned small businesses, plus 10 window displays along Nicollet, featuring holiday designs created by local artists. The Holidays on Nicollet experience runs every weekend through January 5. Great visuals and interview opportunities all month. Plus, you can find great musical performances over the lunch hour on select dates at Capella Tower, IDS Center, City Center, and U.S. Bank Plaza. 

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

 *  *  *  *  * Don't Miss  *  *  *  *  *

Minni Dazzle – Thursday – Sunday | Fulton Beer Taproom 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug – Thursday - Sunday | The Cowles Center 

Frozen in Concert – Friday - Sunday | Orchestra Hall 

Timberwolves vs. Pacers – Saturday| Target Center 

‘Art’ – Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday | Guthrie Theater 

A Holiday Evening with Kristin Chenoweth – Monday | Orchestra Hall 

Mrs. Doubtfire – Tuesday & Wednesday | Orpheum Theatre 

Paul Metsa & Sonny Earl – 25th Anniversary Show – Wednesday | Dakota

 *  *  *  *  * Thursday, December 14  *  *  *  *  *

Minni Dazzle | 5 – 9 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Hot Mulligan | 5:30 p.m. – The Fillmore 

Southside Aces: Christmas in New Orleans | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

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

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 7:30 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

My 00’s Playlist | 7:30 p.m. – Target Center 

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

 *  *  *  *  * Friday, December 15  *  *  *  *  *

Minni Dazzle | 5 – 9 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Robert Glasper | 6:30 & 9 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Frozen in Concert | 7 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

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

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 7:30 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

Bach’s Christmas Oratorio | 7:30 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

The Big Wu | 8 p.m. – First Avenue

 *  *  *  *  * Saturday, December 16  *  *  *  *  *

North Loop Winter Market | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – 501 Royalston Avenue 

Nicollet Island Winter Market | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Nicollet Island Pavilion 

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

Minni Dazzle | 2 – 7 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Frozen in Concert | 2 & 7 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 2 & 7:30 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 3 p.m. – State Theatre 

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

Live Boxing Series: Morrell Jr. vs. Agbeko | 5 p.m. – The Armory 

Robert Glasper | 6:30 & 9 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Wolves vs. Pacers | 7 p.m. – Target Center 

Michael W. Smith Christmas | 7 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre 

‘Art’ | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

DURRY | 9 p.m. – First Avenue

 *  *  *  *  * Sunday, December 17  *  *  *  *  *

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

Minni Dazzle | 1 – 5 p.m. – Fulton Beer Taproom 

Rhythm Street Movement’s Who Brought the Humbug | 1 p.m. – The Cowles Center 

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

Frozen in Concert | 2 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

Loyce Houlton’s Nutcracker Fantasy | 3 p.m. – State Theatre 

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

Robert Glasper | 6:30 & 9 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

‘Art’ | 7 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

*  *  *  *  * Monday, December 18 *  *  *  *  *

The Peterson Family – Twas the Jam Before Christmas | 7 p.m. – Dakota

A Holiday Evening with Kristin Chenoweth | 7:30 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

*  *  *  *  * Tuesday, December 19  *  *  *  *  *

The Peterson Family – Twas the Jam Before Christmas | 7 p.m. – Dakota 

Sing! An Irish Christmas | 7 p.m. – Orchestra Hall 

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

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

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre

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

*  *  *  *  * Wednesday, December 20 *  *  *  *  *

Paul Metsa & Sonny Earl – 25th Anniversary Show | 7 p.m. – Dakota

Mrs. Doubtfire | 7:30 p.m. – Orpheum Theatre

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

“Art” | 7:30 p.m. – Guthrie Theatre 

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

*  *  *  *  * Weekend Happenings *  *  *  *  *

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

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

Holiday Under Glass Concert Series | 12 – 1 p.m. – IDS Center Crystal Court (Tuesdays – Thursdays) 

Live Holiday Music | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. – U.S. Bank Plaza (Tuesdays – Thursdays) 

Farmer’s Market | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Lyndale Avenue (Saturdays and Sundays) 

Nordic Village Market | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis (Saturdays and Sundays) 

Handmade Holiday Market | 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Lakes & Legends Brewing Company (Saturdays and Sundays) 

Get Involved! Plus, share your experiences on social media tagging #mymplsdt, and look for downtown giveaways including tickets, gift cards, and experiences on the @mplsdowntown Instagram account. 

FINNOVATION Lab Announces Jennifer Barta as Fractional CEO

CPG veteran brings focused executive leadership to Minnesota-based entrepreneurs launching mission-driven businesses

FINNOVATION Lab, a professional resource hub supporting impact-driven CPG startups, has welcomed industry veteran Jennifer Barta to lead as Fractional CEO. Barta joins the organization with 30+ years of experience in the consumer products industry, including directing and managing at industry titans General Mills and Land O’ Lakes.

Jennifer BartaBarta’s background in bringing innovative ideas to scale will guide FINNOVATION Lab and its entrepreneurial members who span a wide range of experience levels and are working to launch diverse product offerings. FINNOVATION Lab’s mission to make Minnesota the home of mission-driven brands aligns to Barta’s personal convictions. Barta is heavily involved in Minnesota’s startup and accelerator community, having served as a mentor for Grow North and Naturally MN and an MN Cup Judge for the Food/Agriculture/Beverage division.

"Stepping into this role has been exciting and rewarding," said Barta. "I enjoy serving as a guide to a vibrant community of entrepreneurs who have ideas that have real potential to create change. FINNOVATION Lab is doing impactful and important work, and my sleeves are rolled all the way up as we connect our members with resources and services to help them in their growth journey."

As CEO, Barta will lead FINNOVATION Lab’s work of nurturing innovation and sustainability in the food and beverage industry by implementing programming that fosters growth and facilitates access to capital for local start-ups. Centrally located in Downtown Minneapolis, FINNOVATION Lab offers an expansive workspace that promotes collaboration, allows flexible work and meeting options, and provides members access to networking and skill-building events. FINNOVATION Lab has supported dozens of mission-driven entrepreneurs as they launch and grow their businesses including Wicked Kitchen, Sustainable Farming Association, Maazah, and NETZRO.

Barta joins Connie Rutledge, Executive Director of FINNOVATION Institute, who has worked with FINNOVATION Lab since 2019. The Institute, a 501(c)3, works alongside FINNOVATION Lab to provide entrepreneurial education, including the FINNOVATION Fellowship, which supports early-stage social entrepreneurs who have bold ideas for sustainable impact.

To learn more about FINNOVATION Lab and its mission and professional resources, visit www.finn-lab.com.

Dayton’s Eighth Floor Holiday Show Through the Years

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

Winter in Minneapolis can be a struggle sometimes. Vehicles take forever to warm up, if we don’t shuffle our feet, we might slip on ice, and snow mounds become some of the tallest structures in the city. However, throughout the years as the winter solstice passes and the days get longer, there has been a ray of light at the end of this dark, frigid tunnel: The Dayton’s Eighth Floor Holiday Show.

Originally called the “Christmas Show,” from 1963 through 2016, the eighth floor of the old Dayton’s building was the most magical place in the Twin Cities. The Dayton’s wanted their department store to be more than just a store. They wanted to be a pillar of the community, so they offered a wide variety of merchandise that most stores didn’t, they’ve supported many charities through the Dayton’s Foundation, and they offered many forms of entertainment, from flower exhibitions to fashion shows.

The Holiday Show started out by having a different theme every year, such as The Grinch, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, and even Harry Potter. Starting in 2008 until the last show in 2016, the theme was the same; A Day in the Life of an Elf, with the opportunity to meet and take a photo with Santa Claus himself. Children and adults alike would be filled with wonder and amazement as they walked through the animatronic show and live the many stories that have passed through the eighth floor auditorium.

While the holiday shows have stopped, the many memories are alive and well thanks to the Minnesota Historical Society’s Dayton's Downtown Minneapolis department store event files collection. Take a trip down memory lane and enjoy these select photos:

1982, Pippi Longstocking

1985, The Velveteen Rabbit

1988, The Polar Express

1989, Cinderella

1991, model of floor layout for Pinocchio

1997, The Nutcracker

1998, exhibition model for The Grinch

2000, Harry Potter

2006, gift store for Mary Poppins

2008, setting up for A Day in the Life of an Elf

Photo credit: Holiday compilation photographs, 1977-2008. Macy's (Firm). Dayton's downtown Minneapolis department store event files. Minnesota Historical Society.

Here is the complete list of shows:

1963: Santa’s Enchanted Forest
1964: Land of Trolls
1965: Nameless, animated animals preparing for Christmas
1966: Dickens’ London Towne
1967: Dickens’ Village
1968: Under the Giant Christmas Tree
1969: Peter Pan
1970: Santa’s Toy Workshop
1971: Santa’s TV Studio
1972: Joy to the World
1973: Nutcracker
1974: Grandma Moses’ “Christmas in the Country”
1975: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
1976: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
1977: How the Grinch Stole Christmas
1978: Once Upon a Christmastime
1979: Babes in Toyland
1980: Alice’s Wonderland Christmas
1981: Hansel and Gretel
1982: Pippi Longstocking
1983: Babar and Father Christmas
1984: Animalen, “The Peaceable Kingdom”
1985: The Velveteen Rabbit
1986: Santabear’s First Christmas
1987: Santabear’s High-Flying Adventures
1988: The Polar Express
1989: Cinderella
1990: Peter Pan
1991: Pinocchio
1992: Puss in Boots
1993: Beauty and the Beast
1994: The Wizard of Oz
1995: The Wind in the Willows
1996: A Christmas Carol
1997: Nutcracker
1998: How the Grinch Stole Christmas
1999: The 12 Days of Christmas
2000: Harry Potter
2001: ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
2002: Paddington Bear and the Christmas Surprise
2003: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
2004: Snow White
2005: Cinderella
2006: Mary Poppins
2007: Nutcracker
2008-2016: A Day in the Life of an Elf

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

IDS Center Secures Loan Extension

Year-to-date, the IDS Center has completed 16 lease transactions for more than 121,670 square feet.

Accesso, a Florida-based real estate investment manager managing over 14 million square feet of office properties and developing thousands of multifamily units, announced today that the IDS Center, the famed centerpiece of the downtown Minneapolis skyline, has secured a loan extension for up to three years.

The extension was negotiated by Accesso, with the assistance of Iron Hound Management Company, LLC (“Iron Hound”), a commercial real estate finance firm specializing in loan restructurings and debt and equity placements. Accesso intends to continue to seek longer-term financing as market conditions in Minneapolis and across the U.S. improve.

“We are excited to come to terms on a loan extension for the IDS Center as challenges surrounding the availability of capital persist, reflecting our success at the property despite a difficult macroeconomic environment,” said Deb Kolar, General Manager at Accesso, who has been with the IDS Center for more than 30 years. “This extension enables us to continue doing what we’ve done successfully for many years – adeptly managing the iconic property while executing a highly successful leasing program. We look forward to sharing news on leasing activity in the near future.”

The completion of the loan extension is a testament to Accesso’s longstanding stewardship of the IDS Center and its experience as an owner and operator in Minneapolis as well as other non-gateway markets across the U.S. In a market landscape that remains challenging for commercial real estate and the availability of capital, the trust placed in Accesso by the firm’s clients and business partners proves the company’s value proposition and commitment to the communities in which it serves.

The IDS Center, a 1.42 million-square-foot, 57-story Class A office tower, urban park and retail center, is considered a centerpiece of downtown Minneapolis, serving as a year-round central gathering place for city residents and visitors. The property celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2022, and in 2021, completed an extensive renovation of its Crystal Court, an iconic and collaborative gathering space.