Kumquat-infused Shochu at Zen Box

We were honored to be treated to a very special Kumquat-infused Shochu drink at Zen Box recently.

What made this drink so special?  Per Lina,  the batch we sampled was John's personal collection from 2009.   A kumquat that's been marinating in alcohol for 3 years packs a punch - it's like an edible shot.

The process is a labor of love.  One by one, the kumquats are carefully prepared by cleaning with purified water, and then air-dried.  Next, they're poked with small holes for slow infusion with pure rock sugar in Rice Shochu (Japanese distilled alcohol made from rice). 

Their next batch was infused in May, and should be ready for your enjoyment sometime in July or August.

Sixth Annual Minneapolis Bike Tour Scheduled for September 16

From a June 28 MPRB e-newsletter:

Mark your calendars for the sixth annual Minneapolis Bike Tour

Pre-registration now open at www.minneapolisbiketour.com

The Minneapolis Bike Tour returns for its sixth annual ride, Sunday, Sept. 16, showcasing the Minneapolis Park System. The Bike Tour offers riders a choice between two routes: a long, 36-mile route which travels along Minneapolis lakes, Minnehaha Creek and the Mississippi River, or a shorter, 14-mile route that travels around Lake of the Isles, Lake Calhoun and Lake Harriet.

Parkways and roadways along the routes will be closed to motorized traffic to give individuals and families the opportunity to enjoy Minneapolis’ spectacular park and Grand Rounds Scenic Byway system at their own pace, unhindered by motorized traffic.

Both routes begin and end at Parade Field, located at 400 Kenwood Parkway in Minneapolis. Routes include rest stops with refreshments and bike mechanics. Participants must begin the tour between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m.

The Minneapolis Bike Tour is also creating a new, detailed and informative route map that will be available in July at http://www.minneapolisbiketour.com/ and at MPRB Headquarters at 2117 West River Road in Minneapolis.

The official Minneapolis Bike Tour t-shirt features the work of Dan Black, a Minneapolis-based graphic designer for LandLand. Bike Tour participants can buy the t-shirt for an additional $5 upon registration. A limited amount of t-shirts will be available during the Bike Tour’s weekend registration and the day of the event. T-shirt availability is only guaranteed for pre-registered participants who have ordered them.
Participants can also become fans of the Bike Tour on Facebook and follow tour news on Twitter at @mpls_bike_tour.

Registration and Fees
Pre-registration is available online at http://www.minneapolisbiketour.com/. Weekend registration at Parade Field is available 9 a.m.–noon Saturday, Sept. 15, and 6:30–8:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 16, the day of the Bike Tour.

The pre-registration fee remains at $30 for adults ages 18 and older, $10 for youth ages 6–17 and free for riders ages five and younger. Route support and refreshments are included in the registration fee.
18 years and older – $30 ($40 weekend registration)
6–17 years – $10 ($15 weekend registration)
Five years and younger – Free

Back by Popular Demand
The Bike Tour goes “green” with compost, recycling and water tap structures available along each route, and provides most informational documents online.
New Belgium Brewery will once again sponsor the post-ride festivities, including a beer garden and live music.

Volunteers Needed
Hundreds of volunteers are needed to help with all aspects of the tour, from preparing registration packets and helping along the route, to post-event cleanup.

For additional information on the Bike Tour and volunteer opportunities, visit http://www.minneapolisbiketour.com/, email info@minneapolisbiketour.com or call 612-230-6400.

Bike Tour proceeds go toward supporting and enhancing the Minneapolis Park System, and to support Park Board projects.

Mark Your Calendars - Block Party in the Mill District for National Night Out

Scenes from the 2011 Mill District Block Party for National Night Out:

This years info:

Merrymakers in Gold Medal Park

While on my way to the Solstice River XVI this past Saturday night, I came across a merry bunch in Gold Medal Park.  As suspected, they were enjoying the beautiful evening in the park before heading next door to the Guthrie Theater Midsummer Mischief Costume Ball.

Below center, Rae Lundquist of Dream Stitcher Custom Costume strikes a pose in one of her designs.  Rae specializes in custom-made garments for genres such as Science-Fiction, Fantasy and Living History Reenactors.  If you have a special event that requires a one-of-a-kind creation, give Rae a call at 612-722-8868, or email thedreamstitcher@yahoo.com.

Scenes From the June 23 Solstice River XVI: And Peace Will Flow...

Global Site Performance and the Center for Global Environmental Education presented the Solstice River XVI: And Peace Will Flow...  on June 23 from the Stone Arch Bridge.  This annual performance honors the Mississippi River around the longest day of the year. 

Several changes from last year's event included the Kinship of Rivers flag project, with handmade river inspired flags created by people from river communities strung along the bridge rails.  Kinship of Rivers is a five-year interdisciplinary project to build kinship among communities along the Mississippi and Yangtze, and bring awareness to the river’s ecosystem through art, literature, music, food, and installations of river-flags made by river communities.

Also, after watching the surrounding landscape come alive with dancers, attendees participated in the finale.  Simulating a flowing river, participants rustled a blue fabric stretching over 1,400 feet along the Stone Arch Bridge.

The Center for Global Environmental Education provides public information about the care and health of the river.

Packed House for Coffee Gallery's Bowing Out Gathering

John "Coffeejon" Sherrell opened Coffee Gallery in the Open Book building in 2000.  Back then our Mill District neighborhood looked nothing like the clean, visitor-packed destination it is today.  John is one of many entrepreneurs and visionaries who were committed to transforming the Mill District from a run down area to be avoided, to the vibrant neighborhood it is today. 

John and his staff held what he referred to as a Bowing Out Gathering this past Friday - a combination customer appreciation/farewell party.  It was pretty much standing room only with friends forged over the past 21 years (12 at Open Book).

We are thankful for John's friendship and contributions to the Mill District.  I know Dave will miss his daily latte at the Coffee Gallery.

Week 7 at the 2012 Mill City Farmers Market

Two dead camera batteries (hmmm, wonder how that happened?) cut short our picture taking at the June 23 Market.  

Celebrate Independence Day with a BOOM!

Via a June 21 email from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board:

Celebrate the Fourth of July during Minneapolis Red, White and Boom, a two-day celebration, and other neighborhood events, hosted by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB). Red, White and Boom, held at sites along the downtown Minneapolis riverfront, features live music, great food, fun activities for the whole family and the grand finale – fireworks!

Festivities begin July 3 with the Hot Dam 5K Fun Run at 6:30 p.m., followed by live music by Romantica at 7 p.m., and the movie “Captain America” airing at 9 p.m. Taking its name from the historic St. Anthony Falls, Hot Damn 5K participants will enjoy a mid-summer’s scenic run or walk across the Stone Arch Bridge and along the Mississippi riverfront. Registration is $25 for adults and $15 for youth ages 17 years and younger. All participants will receive a free technical running t-shirt with registration and adults 21 years of age and older will also receive one free beer. More information and registration details for the Hot Dam 5K can be found online.

Following the 5K, live music and a movie will be presented at Nicollet Island Pavilion. This event is free to the public, with music by Romantica beginning at 7 p.m., and the movie “Captain America” airing at 9 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for sale. Arrive early to claim a spot as seating will be limited to the first 1,000 people in attendance.

The Red, White and Boom celebration continues July 4 with the Red, White & Boom! TC Half Marathon, presented by Twin Cities in Motion, family activities, multiple stages with live music, and fireworks. The Red, White & Boom! TC Half Marathon invites participants to join runners from across America in running along the Mississippi riverfront. Learn more at www.tcmevents.org.

Live music will begin at 5 p.m. on Main Street and at 6 p.m. at Mill Ruins Park. Father Hennepin Bluffs Park will have live music and free, family activities from 5:30–9 p.m. The celebration will conclude with fireworks at 10 p.m. with viewing sites set up along Historic Main Street and West River Parkway. 

Tomorrow! Washington Avenue Walk About

Saturday, June 23, 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Location: Washington Avenue South businesses between 9th Avenue South and 12th Avenue South.

Visit these local businesses during the Washington Avenue Walk About - meet the staff, enjoy refreshments, and register for prizes.  Mention you're on the Walk About and take advantage of special offers like the examples listed below (may not be a complete list).

Level Salon - Complimentary Consultations

Sanctuary the Restaurant - $10 Gift Certificates

Wasabi Sushi - Happy Hour specials 4p-8p

City Gardens Flower Mill - Gorgeous arrangements, unique home decor and gifts.

Sorella Wine and Spirits - Wine Tasting 2p-6p

Mill City Grocery and Deli - Enjoy an apple and register for a $25 gift certificate.

Behind the Scenes - 10% off entire purchase.

Extensions Plus - Check out wigs, extensions, twists, braids and more.

Big Brain Comics - Free Comics

Sarpino's - 2 for 1 Takeout Pizza

Minneapolis Veterinary Hospital - $10 gift cards

Spill the Wine - Half off bottles of wine

Grumpy's- $3 Grain Belt Beers

35W Memorial Garden Annual Maintenance

When I noticed the 35W Memorial fully encased in a tent and fenced off, my first thought was vandalism.   I checked with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board office this morning, and was relieved to hear it's just annual maintenance, which will hopefully be completed on Friday.

MPRB 2012 Picture a Park Photo Contest

Attention photography enthusiasts - the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) announced their 3rd annual 'Picture A Park' photo contest, sponsored in conjunction with People for Parks(PFP) and National Camera.  

The contest is designed to highlight the year-round beauty, events and fun throughout Minneapolis’ parks.

Photos and completed entry forms are being accepted until September 3, 2012.  Photos from any time of the year may be submitted.  Click here for full contest information.

Bicycle Theft Notice from the Police 1st Precinct

The Police 1st Precinct recently generated a notice with tips on preventing bicycle theft, as well as what to do if you are a victim of this crime.

Many bikes are stolen when poorly secured outside a store, park building, business or library. Police recover numerous bicycles during their investigations and when people call 311 to report abandoned bikes. Unfortunately, hundreds of bikes are never returned to their owners because there may be no proof of ownership available. These bikes and many other items are sold through the Minneapolis Police public auctions.

A Message from the Police 1^st Precinct

This is the time of year when bicycles are stolen due to underground garage burglaries. Many bikes are also stolen when poorly secured outside a store, park building, business or library. Police recover numerous bicycles during their investigations and when people call 311 to report abandoned bikes. Unfortunately, hundreds of bikes are never returned to their owners because there may be no proof of ownership available. These bikes and many other items are sold through the Minneapolis Police public auctions.  

TO REDUCE THE CHANCE OF HAVING YOUR BIKE STOLEN, RECORD THE MAKE, MODEL, and SERIAL NUMBER OF YOUR BICYCLE AND KEEP THE INFO IN A SAFE PLACE.  ALSO, save your purchase receipt; it is proof of ownership and value. This information is essential if you want to get it back if it is recovered by the police.

You can find the serial number on the “bottom bracket” of the bike. This is the cylinder on which the pedals rotate. Turn the bike upside down to see the number. Take some photos of the whole bike as well, especially if the bike is unusual looking or has extra features. Put your name on the rim under the tires.

• ALWAYS LOCK UNATTENDED BICYCLES.  Avoid locks, chains or cables that can easily be cut, broken or picked. Use a heavy duty U type lock. Do not protect a $1000 mode of transportation with a $10 lock.
• Lock the bicycle to something stationary, preferably where you or others can see it. Ask security if the bike racks have camera coverage.
• Properly secure them in garages or storage units – do not assume they are safe in an underground facility.
• Remove any bicycle components and accessories that can easily be taken.
• Observe individuals loitering near parked bicycles, even if the bikes are locked.  Call 911 about suspicious activity or notify building security. Provide a good suspect description.

HOW TO REPORT STOLEN OR LOST BICYCLES:

• Call 311 to make a police report after your bicycle has been stolen.

• To see if your stolen bicycle has been found by the police, contact the Property and Evidence Room (Monday - Saturday 8am to 9pm at 612-673-2932. You can also directly call 612-673-5665 between 7am and 3pm Monday through Friday.

CPS Renee Allen; Minneapolis Police 1^st Precinct

Renee.allen@minneapolismn.gov

Mannie Jackson Live Book Review at MacPhail Scheduled for June 21

MacPhail Center for Music is hosting a book tour on Thursday, June 21, at 4:00pm for Mannie Jackson and his new book, "Boxcar to Boardrooms". 

This is an amazing American success story.   Literally born in a boxcar, Mannie lived there with 14 family members for several years as a child.  He went on to become a senior executive at Honeywell in Minneapolis for years, and eventually became the owner of the Harlem Globetrotters and sat on five different Fortune 500 boards. 

Week 6 at the 2012 Mill City Farmers Market

I see a pattern forming - when Nick is scheduled for Mill City Cooks, there's a chance a few rain drops will fall...  Despite some on and off sprinkles, we had no problem filling our basket with organic goodness at the June 16 Market.

What the deuce ? ? ?

BREAKING - FERC Starts Termination Proceedings on Crown Hydro License

The end is much closer for this project.  Pretty interesting reading for a regulatory proceeding...

Tonight - Twin City River Rats

The 2012 Twin Cities River Rats shows are scheduled for 7pm Thursday nights through August 30, and take place at 1628 West River Road (between the Plymouth and Broadway).

The Twin Cities Rivers Rats describe their show as an aquatic Broadway musical featuring multiple water ski acts choreographed to music and built around a theme.

If you haven't already enjoyed a River Rats show, their website is loaded with fun videos to give you an idea of what to expect.  These are free events.

Tonight Only - Kick Off Summer Fun with Island Inspired Creations at Sanctuary

This sounds like a wonderful evening...

Download the menu here...

A Slideshow from Northern Spark

A few shot from Northern Spark last weekend:

Tonight - DMNA Board Meeting at Central Library

The agenda for the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association Board meeting tonight, 06/12/2012:

Brenda Langton and Atina Diffley June 7 Discussion and Book Signing at the Mill City Museum

Authors Brenda Langton (The Spoonriver Cookbook) and Atina Diffley (Turn Here Sweet Corn: Organic Farming Works) recently conducted a "farm to market" discussion and book signing at the Mill City Museum.  Atina's husband Martin provided background on how he met Atina and Brenda, and their commitment to growing, preparing and educating people about healthful food. 

Just like the complex eco-system web of species, farmers and consumers are intricately linked. The food decisions consumers make every day drive and directly impact the land management decisions farmers make, which have a huge impact on local ecosystems and ultimately, the health of all life on the planet. A committed and supportive relationship between farm and market is crucial to the creation of an economically viable, local-organic, resilient and renewable, food system.

Attendees were treated to sample recipes from The Spoonriver Cookbook, showcasing a few of the many simple, delicious and healthy recipes found in the book.

About The Spoonriver Cookbook
For nearly forty years, Brenda Langton has been one of the most recognizable guiding lights of Twin Cities organic dining. The Spoonriver Cookbook is a tribute to her acclaimed Spoonriver restaurant and the Mill City Farmers Market, as well as a presentation of the vision and philosophy behind Spoonriver’s delicious creations and their remarkable chef.

About Turn Here Sweet Corn
In telling her story of working the land, Atina Diffley reminds us that we live in relationships—with the earth, plants and animals, families and communities. A memoir of making these essential relationships work in the face of challenges from weather to corporate politics, this is a firsthand history of getting in at the “ground level” of organic farming.

Both books are available at the Mill City Museum store.