An Immersive, 60-Minute Holiday Train Experience with Specialty Cocktails and Bites is Coming to The Depot

The Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot is excited to announce the debut of its inaugural Northern Starlight Express holiday pop-up bar. This immersive experience transports patrons on a 60-minute journey through a festive reimagining of a historic train car. Guests will enjoy specialty cocktails and curated small bites as they are swept up in the holiday spirit.

Running Wednesday through Saturday from November 29, 2024 to January 4, 2025, the Northern Starlight Express offers a one-of-a-kind, interactive experience designed to evoke the charm of yesteryear while celebrating the holiday season. For those looking to revel in the magic between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, select additional dates are available to keep the celebrations rolling, although the pop-up will be closed on both Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The concept takes inspiration from the hotel’s rich history as a former train depot on the Milwaukee Road line, providing visitors with a nod to the past while engaging their senses with modern culinary delights and whimsical, unexpected elements.

The Northern Starlight Express features an exclusive menu of handcrafted cocktails and delectable bites, all created specifically for this event. Guests can expect seasonal flavors that complement the cozy, nostalgic ambiance of the pop-up. The experience will be available by reservation only, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure for each attendee.

“We are excited to bring this unique holiday experience to our guests,” said Robert Payne, Area Director of Sales and Marketing at Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot. “The Northern Starlight Express blends our history as a train station with the energy of the season, creating an immersive and memorable experience like no other in the Minneapolis.”

Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot participates in Marriott Bonvoy - the award-winning travel program from Marriott International - allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay at the hotel and at other hotels and resorts across Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio of brands. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

For more information or to make a reservation for the Northern Starlight Express, visit the Renaissance website or follow the hotel on social media: Facebook and Instagram.

Anda Spa in Hotel Ivy Announces New Locals Memberships

Ahead of the holiday season, the luxurios Anda Spa inside Hotel Ivy has announced a new membership program, designed to entice locals to pamper themselves year-round. This offering comes on the heels of Hotel Ivy’s recent multi-million dollar renovation.

Available in three tiers, all members will be treated to year-round spa offerings, as well as regular access to the spa amenities — including its steam room, dry sauna, hydrotherapy tub, Aura Lounge and Relaxation Lounge. Memberships also grant access to perks at Breva Bar & Grill, Masa & Agave and on retail spa purchases. 

Tier details:

Citrine Membership – $1,050 per year

6 treatments per year, one every other month. Choose between:

• 50 minute handcrafted massage + complimentary enhancement
• 50 minute Himalayan salt stone massage
• 25 minute Aura Flash Facial

Rose Quartz Membership – $2,200 per year

12 treatments per year, one per month. Choose between:

• 50 minute handcrafted massage + complimentary enhancement
• 50 minute Himalayan salt stone massage 
• 25 minute Aura Flash Facial

Amethyst Membership – $3,050 per year

12 treatments per year, one per month. Choose between:

• 80 minute handcrafted massage + complimentary enhancement
• 80 minute Himalayan salt stone massage + complimentary enhancement
• 50 minute Biologique Recherche facial

Additional benefits: 

• Access to spa amenities Monday to Thursday, 9am-7pm, including:
  • Locker rooms: showers, bathrobes, slippers, private lockers, Eucalyptus steam rooms
  • Quartz spa: dry sauna, hydrotherapy tub, heated chaise lounges
  • Aura lounge: Himalayan salt stone lighting, oversized lounges, and weighted blankets
  • Relaxation Lounge: chaise lounges, fruit-infused waters, freshly brewed herbal teas, and light snacks. 
• 15% discount when dining in Breva, Breva Bar, and Masa & Agave
• 15% discount on spa retail purchases
• Complimentary enhancements available are subject to change. Present offerings include: Rose Gold Knesko Eye Mask, Peppermint Foot Therapy, CBD oil, and Alpine Arnica Muscle Repair.
• Anda Fitness Memberships can be added to each membership for $1,000 per year. 

Terms: 

 • Must show active membership card at bars and restaurant to receive discounts. 

 • Rates listed above are subject to tax.

 • All memberships require annual payment and are cancellable with 30 days-notice.

 • At conclusion of 12 month memberships, rates and benefits are subject to change.

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Here's a peek into the Anda Spa:

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Plus, here are two other specials:

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Pumpkin Pie Peel — $25 

For November, Anda has added a Pumpkin Pie Peel as an enhancement to our Biologique Recherche Customized facials. This treatment uses gentle, autumnal blend of pumpkin pulp, avocado oil, and fruit enzymes exfoliates and brightens, while soothing calendula and licorice extracts leave skin hydrated, radiant, and resilient. (It does not actually "peel" your skin like a chemical peel would, but it gets rid of any dead skin using the enzymes, which is great for sensitive skin).

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Mistletoe Lip Treatment — $36 

For December, Anda will be doing a Mistletoe Lip Treatment, which is a seasonal knesko lip mask. This can be added to facials or massages. They contain Hyaluronic Acid to boost hydration, Niacinamide (Vit B3) to smooth skin, and helps to minimize the appearance of skin discoloration around the lips. 

Historical Tibetan Shrine Room at Mia

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room

A Discussion with Matthew Welch, Mary Ingebrand Pohlad Deputy Director and Chief Curator at Mia

Matthew WelchMia unveiled a new fully installed historical Tibetan Shrine Room in September. The Shrine Room is a multi-sensory experience featuring more than 200 new pieces of Tibetan Buddhist art, generously donated by Alice Kandell, a New York collector. We talked to Chief Curator, Matthew Welch, about the significance of the donation, Mia’s extensive Asian collections, and partnership with Twin Cities Tibetan organizations. I recommend visiting the Shrine Room on every visit to Mia; it will center you and prepare you to leave your cares behind and enjoy the many wonders of Mia.

Q:  Can you provide us with timeline on Mia’s Asian collections?  

A:  Mia has long been celebrated for its exceptional collections of Asian art. We were the recipient of Asian objects even before our opening in 1915. John Bradstreet (1914), Alfred Pillsbury (150 bronzes; 194 jades) in 1950, Richard P. Gale (over 300 prints in 1974), Louis W. Hill, Jr. some 1500 works of Japanese art in the 1970s, Mary Griggs Burke, over 670 works of art in 2012, Willard Clark some 1700 works of art in 2013, and over 2000 objects from Bruce B. Dayton over the course of his 70-year involvement with the museum.

Q:  Please give us a historical perspective on the Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room - why is the donation by Alice Kandell significant? 

A:  Of course, with this gift, Mia becomes one of the country's great repositories of Tibetan art. Besides the importance, beauty, and workmanship of each object, the extraordinary thing that Alice has done is to bring it all together to evoke a traditional Tibetan sacred space in all of its richness and complexity as it would have existed in a historic Tibetan home. 

Kandell says that the objects were not considered ‘art’ by the original owners, who would have included them in the family’s shrine room. The objects were necessary for daily rituals and offerings. 

The Twin Cities is home to approximately 5,000 people of Tibetan descent, the second largest population in the United States - following Queens, NY - so it is especially meaningful to have them here at Mia.

Read the full story from Minneapolis Times... 

Be Prepared for Snow Season - Sign up for Snow Emergency Alerts!

Don't let unpredictable weather catch you off guard! Avoid the hassle and expense of getting towed during a snow emergency this winter. Sign up for Minneapolis alerts to stay ahead of the snow and know the parking rules.

Sign up for alerts today!

Text "MPLSAlerts" to 77295 or create a full Smart911 profile online to stay informed this winter.

Watch this video about being ready for snow season:

Theatre in the Round Players Announces Reunion (After the End of the World)

This post-apocalyptic coming-of-age play, full of humor and hope, is a science fiction story for the whole family.

Theatre in the Round Players (TRP), 245 Cedar Avenue, is presenting Reunion (After the End of the World) by Saint Paul native, Will Quam. This co-production with FAIR School for Arts features a cast of FAIR students.

Reunion tells the story of a group of teenagers building a new society after The Event wiped out civilization as we know it. Walled inside the safe and familiar halls of Clearidge School, the students are determined to forget the past. When a group of outside kids comes looking for a mysterious book buried somewhere in the school, the past and present reunite in a play about memory, loss, humor, and what it means to be a kid in extraordinary circumstances.

This is the second partnership between Theatre in the Round and FAIR School for Arts. As a community theater, Theatre in the Round’s expertise lies in creating opportunities for amateur and emerging artists to have high-quality theater experiences. Through this experience, FAIR students have gotten the opportunity to learn how to build sets, make costumes, run sound and light boards, assistant stage manage, as well as act on stage. All of these areas are essential to creating theatre; Theatre in the Round believes that investment in teaching areas of technical theatre is an important piece in preserving theatre for future generations.

Gretchen Weinrich directs the fourteen-member cast of students with set design by Madeline Achen, costumes by Emma Kravig, lighting by Alita Robertson, props by Elliott Van Winkle, and sound design by Sydney Manno.

Reunion (After the End of the World) runs two weekends only, November 1-10, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tickets: $15-22. Appropriate for ages 7+. Theatre in the Round’s facilities are accessible for audience members using wheelchairs. Box Office Phone: 612-333-3010

Latest News on Aging Research from the U - a Discussion with Dr. Paul Robbins

Article by Becky Fillinger, photo provided

Dr. Robbins is a resident of the Mill District, but more importantly, he is Professor of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics and Associate Director of the Institute on the Biology of Aging and Metabolism (iBAM) and the Medical Discovery Team on the Biology of Aging at the University of Minnesota. We talked to him about Geroscience and senescent cells and expanding our healthspan because – well - we’re all aging! 

Dr. Paul RobbinsQ:  Please tell us the definition of Geroscience.

A:  Geroscience is the concept that the biggest risk factor for diseases that come with old age is the aging process itself. What we have done with healthcare forever is target one disease at a time. What leads to an increased risk of diabetes, cancer, heart disease, dementia – almost every disease you can name – is aging itself. We need to not target each disease, which leads a handful of different pills, but rather target aging itself. It goes across all disease fronts. We should be focusing on aging to treat or prevent or reduce the severity of all these different diseases.

Q:  Please tell us about senescent cells and why the U is interested in slowing or reversing their damage to the body?

A:  Some years ago, all the aging researchers got together and came up with the hallmarks of aging – things that go wrong with aging. Also, the hallmarks are interconnected so if you could target one of the hallmarks, other hallmarks should improve too, providing a therapeutic benefit to the patient. There are many of these – mitochondria go bad, your stem cells don’t work as efficiently, chronic inflammation, etc. But one of the hallmarks that happens and has been documented extensively is that as cells acquire damage (which can happen through many different ways) they trigger a cell fate called senescence where the damaged cells shut down. Senescent cells stop growing and release inflammatory factors that instruct your immune system to get rid of them. If your immune system is healthy, it will recognize the cells as damaged – the cells are killed and removed from our bodies. But as we age and our immune system starts to fail, these damaged cells are not removed from the body as efficiently. They’re not cleared and it leads to chronic inflammation, which leads to a variety of adverse health conditions. We’ve shown in animal models that if you clear or remove the senescent cells, (using genetic tricks in mice and we’ve developed senolytic drugs that in mice work effectively) mice live healthier and with a 10-20% increased lifespan. The goal is compressing the period of co-morbidity. We’ve observed that people are healthy for a number of years and then everything starts to fall apart. In that slope where things continue to go wrong – the gradual decay – it leads to nursing homes, increased medical care, etc. We are trying to compress that period of decline to keep someone healthier longer. Increasing the healthspan is our goal. We would like to mimic in humans what we’re seeing in mice. 

Q:  How important is interdisciplinary collaboration in your research on senescent cells?

A:  It is absolutely essential. One of the things we were tasked with when we came here was to encourage all researchers to include aging as a variable in their research. We collaborate across campus and all over the country – some you would not expect. If you think about cancer or heart disease, it takes many people and specialties to treat the diseases, with aging as a primary cause of the diseases. An advantage of being at the U is that it is a large university with a large medical school, and they have departments and institutes and centers working in almost every health area. So, for example we work with neuroscientists because Alzheimer’s and dementia are associated with aging. Cancer is absolutely a disease of aging (pediatric cancer aside); the biggest risk for breast and prostate cancer is aging. So, we work with the Cancer Center.  Transplants is another hot area. If you take a liver from a 70-year-old – the senolytics could improve the quality of the liver for the recipient. Also, the Covid pandemic showed the increased mortality of the elderly to viral infection so we are working with the Center for Immunology to increase resilience to pathogens in our aging population. Everyone is interested in aging now. 

The collaboration extends off campus as well. We are collaborating with people with funding from NASA.  Mars astronauts are going to be exposed to a lot of radiation. Damage from radiation leads to cellular senescence. We are sending cells to a laboratory in New York which can radiate them with space radiation.  We’re screening drugs to see which ones work against space-induced senescence. 

Q:  Are you conducting trials for your senolytics?

A:  Yes. Doing trials for aging is difficult – they’re expensive with many moving parts, for example, getting FDA approval to use the drugs on humans that have been used on mice is time consuming but must be done. There is one trial underway at the U for sepsis - they’re testing some of our senolytics for sepsis. Our trial is investigating whether you can reduce time in the hospital and mortality if you treat these people early on with these compounds we’ve developed to clear senescent cells. There’s one with the VA for obesity to see if our compounds can limit weight gain similar to a drug like Ozempic for which we are applying for funding.

We are also part of a national Translational Geroscience Network - 14 universities across the country with more than 40 trials underway for aging and age-related diseases. I’m on the steering committee of the network; the hope is that we will soon have many more clinical trials here at the U using the resources of the network.

Q:  Are there any foods that can reduce senescent cells?

A:  Yes, but you would have to eat a large amount of the foods to make a difference. One of the natural products is flavonoid found in strawberries called fisetin. There is evidence that people in other parts of the world who eat a lot of foods with fisetin are healthier. Is it the fisetin or is it something else? We don’t know.  It’s a natural product that is safe. Getting natural products into a clinical trial is easier. I take a fisetin supplement every couple of weeks. There is a clinical trial in Germany supported by the strawberry growers in Germany - they make a rich strawberry paste. We haven’t tested it here. There is much that we can learn about the foods we eat if we can test them on the hallmarks of aging.

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  Please check out our website: The Institute on the Biology of Aging and Metabolism. Here you’ll find our news listed and also podcasts and links to papers with the latest research.

Open Eye Theatre Announces FULL MOON PUPPET SHOW, a Rowdy Adult Puppet Cabaret, Nov 14-16

Open Eye Theatre continues its 2024–2025 Mainstage Season with FULL MOON PUPPET SHOW, the Twin Cities’ rowdy adult puppet cabaret! FULL MOON PUPPET SHOW, hosted by creator Liz Howls, runs November 14 – 16 at Open Eye Theatre. More info and tickets.

Since 2008, FULL MOON PUPPET SHOW has been performing adult puppet slams throughout Minneapolis. This November, selected artists will perform 10-minute original puppet shows to an audience encouraged to howl at the moon and cheer on each show! Featuring works by Lys Akerman-Frank, Brant Bollman, David Valentine, Felicia Cooper, Eva Adderley, Mackenzie Lageson & Kaden Kelsheimer, Monica Rojas, and Steve Ackerman. With music between acts by Adam Zahller's Sick Eagle.

After college, Liz Howls and a group of friends committed to creating a monthly puppetry performance during every full moon. The shows quickly gained momentum, attracting larger audiences and featuring 6 – 8 captivating puppet acts with live musical interludes. For three years, they brought their unique brand of puppetry to diverse venues across Minneapolis – from Bedlam Theatre to warehouses, gardens, and even storefronts. 

A year after taking a hiatus, FULL MOON PUPPET SHOW was reborn at Open Eye Theatre. This new chapter brought exciting developments, including workshops and tech rehearsals for performers, along with staff to support the productions. 

Since 2021, FULL MOON PUPPET SHOW has become an annual tradition at Open Eye, along with an online workshop series featuring instruction from puppetry experts from a wide variety of disciplines. Though the FULL MOON PUPPET SHOW has transformed over time, its core remains the same: a celebration of unruly, inventive, spirited puppetry!

THE ARTISTS & THEIR SHOWS

Steve Ackerman  "Le Cat Hand Puppet Heist" - A group of old, retired cat burglars reunite for one last job. Graying felines, an art museum, unsuspecting security guards, laser alarms, and lots of gratuitous hand puppet deaths. Also, the cats are French for some reason.

Eva Adderley  "The Cat Has a Key" - A woman struggling with depression embarks on a dreamy, cathartic adventure when she follows a mysterious cat who appears at her window.

Lys Akerman-Frank "Impossible Affair" - Impossible Affair tells the story of Sophie, a bodacious fur fantastic puppet, who meets M, a Shadow goddess. Sophie tries to figure out a way to literally fit in M's world so they can be together.

Brant Bollman "Uplifting Puppet Co Presents: A Tribute to Gallagher" - Prepare for mayhem when we eulogize that watermelon-smashing, dad joke telling, follically challenged prop comedian from the 1980s, Gallagher! 

Felicia Cooper "It Has Its Ups and Downs" - Do you ever feel like you have no idea what anyone else is doing? On her first day as an elevator operator, Elenor learns that it's about more than just getting buttons pressed. Using visible mechanisms and hand puppets, this lively show is an attempt at Richard Scarry for adults.

Mackenzie Lageson  & Kaden Kelsheimer "The Roadside Blessing" - Lamenting the absence of a baby in their lives, a taxidermist couple stumbles upon a gift from beyond the veil—a human infant, born of a road killed opossum. 

Monica Rojas "Cloudmakers" - Follow a young apprentice as they learn the different ways to hand craft clouds.

David Valentine "Good Company" - A young worm sets off in search of silence and solitude. But can he get by without a little help from his friends?

Tickets: $18 — General Admission. A limited number of Pay What You Can tickets will be available at the box office starting at 6:15pm each night.

Performance Schedule

Thursday 11/14, 7:30pm - OPENING

Friday 11/15, 7:30pm

Saturday 11/16, 7:30pm - CLOSING

Run Time: 2 hours with a 15 minute intermission

Age Recommendation: 14 and up

Open Eye Theatre is located at 506 East 24th Street, 2 blocks south of Franklin Ave between Portland Ave and 35W. Park for free in the Lutheran Social Services lot at 24th and Portland. 612-874-6338

Letter to the Editor: Ilhan Omar has not forgotten veterans

Being a veteran can be a solitary experience and existence, especially as a Veteran who served under the discriminatory Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. Too often we experience trauma, sustain injuries — both visible and invisible — and have to navigate how to fit back into society while also trying to navigate through patchworks of services and overwhelmed and underfunded agencies. It is representatives like Ilhan Omar that help us get the resources we need that gives me hope.

Since her first day in Congress, Ilhan Omar has had the backs of our veterans. In 2019, we launched our End the Forever War campaign, urging Congress to end the disastrous and immoral U.S. occupation of Afghanistan. Ilhan was one of the first members to join us in signing our End the Forever War Pledge and was a key voice in making our campaign a success. She understands that these endless wars destabilize countries and are unjust occupations that impact climate change, take funding away from our own communities and put the lives of those serving at risk. Ilhan is committed to a more peaceful and just foreign policy that supports communities across the US and the world. It has been an honor to work with her on ending the war in Afghanistan and in demanding a ceasefire in Gaza.

When we return from our duties, we are often forgotten. The care and support for those serving has a stark line once we come home and complete our service — and for too many of our LGBTQ+ veterans who were unjustly discharged under 18 years of DADT, they are locked out of these critical resources altogether. Trillions are spent on war and funding genocide, but we can’t find the funding to ensure our veterans get the mental healthcare they need to work through their traumas of war, to find a job that provides a livable wage and find affordable safe housing after service. 

Ilhan does not forget about us - she has brought in $750,000 for the Renovation of Snelling Motel to Affordable Housing for Veterans and has pushed to expand the HUD-VASH program and Supportive Services for Veterans Families to eliminate homelessness among Veterans. She has fought for Medicare for All to increase access to mental health programs and opposed the privatization of the Veterans Affairs healthcare system, something that Trump and Project 2025 is giddy to do. She also supports expanding funding for physical and mental healthcare for veterans. She wants to make sure that when we hang up our uniform, we are taken care of. 

So when we look ahead to this November, we need to think about who has our backs as Veterans and human beings. We need to vote for the representatives and candidates that understand our needs and what our communities deserve. Ilhan Omar understands true patriotism. She fights for a better future for all of our communities — she is tirelessly working to ensure our children don’t go hungry, that our future generations have a cleaner, safer environment, and that everyone has access to basic human rights like housing and healthcare.

I am excited to vote for Ilhan Omar and to send her back to Congress this November. Ilhan’s endless advocacy for funding our communities, including our veterans, and commitment to peaceful and just foreign policies instead of funding wars, is the community care and responsibility we need from our politicians. I urge you to join me in voting for Ilhan Omar and our DFL candidates up and down the ballot.

Jacob Thomas, Minneapolis

November 1st Marks the Very First “Minnesota Beer Day"

Hamm's Bear holding the proclamation

Starting this year, Minnesota Beer Day will officially be celebrated across the state on November 1, following resolutions signed by the Minnesota Legislature and a proclamation from the Governor. The celebration has been Resolved as an annual event moving forward.

“What we want to drive home is the importance of beer to the state of Minnesota. We were making beer 10 years before Minnesota was even a state!” says Bob Galligan, the Director of Government and Industry Relations at the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild. “MN Beer Day offers an opportunity for camaraderie across the industry and the state—a day for beer lovers everywhere to go out, celebrate, and support their local taproom, brewpubs, bars, restaurants, and liquor stores.”

As part of the celebration, the Guild has coordinated the release of a special pint glass for purchase, which will be sold across the state. Many Guild members are participating by offering special discounts, events, or even unique brews. A map detailing all participants and their deals is available on the Guild’s website at https://www.mncraftbrew.org/events/mn-beer-day/.MN Beer Day was established as an opportunity to celebrate the history of Minnesota beer and how the culture has transformed over the years. November 1st was chosen to honor the state’s most historic brand, Grain Belt, whose story began on November 1, 1850, when John Orth founded the second brewery in the territory. Grain Belt is currently brewed by the oldest brewery in the state and a Guild member, Schell’s Brewery. The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, which represents more than 170 of the state’s craft breweries, worked with Senator Howe (13, R) and Representative Isa Perez-Vega (65B, DFL) in their respective chambers to pass resolutions officially declaring the celebration. The date for 2024 was also proclaimed by the Governor's office.

Galligan added, “It’s amazing to see what beer has become in Minnesota. But I think it’s also important to remember the lineage from which we craft brewers come. And the immense ecosystem we are a part of. We celebrate this day with others we have disagreed with in the past because, for one day, we hope we can all remember the purpose of beer: to sustain and to connect. After 176 years, we think it’s time to celebrate the beverage that built the North Star State. In recognition of everyone from farmers to bartenders, we’re asking all beer-drinking Minnesotans to get out and responsibly enjoy a brew on November 1. We’ll be the ones filling your glass and showing you the true meaning of being a Minnesotan - hospitality.”

Know Your Local Dive Bar – Otter’s Saloon

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

A Discussion with Otter’s Saloon Owner Lynn Vashro

Otter's Saloon has karaoke 7 nights a week, 365 days a year, 8PM to 2AM. There’s even an earlier start on Saturdays - 4PM! If you feel like singing, or just being with a happy crowd, head on over to 617 Central Avenue SE. I asked Scott Parkin of Old Town Minneapolis if he has a favorite memory of Otter’s Saloon. Turns out he does – keep reading...

Lynn Vashro

We talked to Lynn Vashro, Owner/ Manager about the history of the bar, the karaoke program and the perfection that is Otter's Saloon.  

Q:  Can you give us the history of Otter's Saloon. How long has it been around?

A:  This building has a long history. Designed by renowned architects, Joseph & Ernest Haley, it was built in 1898 for Henry Thompson and operated as Thompson & Olson Saloon. It was a “tied house” connected to the Gluek Brewing Company selling Gluek products exclusively. It converted to a soft drink parlor during prohibition despite being cited multiple times for bootlegging. Despite Prohibition and ownership changes, the building has operated as a saloon its entire existence. It went through many changes of ownership. In 1997, Denise Freeman and Dell Hederman purchased the building and renamed it U Otter Stop Inn. In 2010, Bobby Vashro, my husband, and I purchased and renamed the business Otter’s Saloon. Bobby was a bartender here before we purchased the business. Bobby passed in 2022 – he truly loved the business and all our customers. See more extensive history here, thanks to Old Town Minneapolis.

Q:  Otter's must have the longest happy hours in the state. Please talk about your happy hour times and offerings. 

A:  We do have a lengthy Happy Hour - 8AM-7PM Monday-Friday, 8AM-6PM Saturday and Sunday. The happy hour specials are $3 Rail Drinks and $3 Domestic Beer.

Q: I read that you have the best karaoke in Minnesota. Please tell us about your karaoke program. What's the most requested song?

A:  We love our karaoke program. We use the songbooksonline.com app and paper slips and pencils. We have a nice crowd of regulars on the weekdays singing karaoke, the weekends bring in the big crowds to sing karaoke. The most popular song is Journey’s Don't Stop Believing. Scott Parkin of Old Town Minneapolis, has a favorite memory of Otter’s Saloon: “I watched a stunning woman with an entourage walk in, do an amazing rendition of Salt-N-Pepa’s Shoop, and walk right back out the door without batting an eyelash. The room was speechless.” 

Belt out your favorite tunes at Otter's!

Q:  I also saw a post about cribbage tournaments. Please tell us more about that and other sponsored activities.

A:  Our Cribbage tournaments are the second Saturday and last Saturday of each month at 1:00PM. Cribbage is $21 to play and all monies are paid out to the winners. We have 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners, depending on how many players we have on any certain day. The largest jackpot you can win is $120. 

We have pull-tabs and e-tabs daily. For pull-tabs, we have two $2 boxes and one $1 box. You can win up to $500 in the $2 boxes and up to $300 in the $1 box. The boxes are changed out frequently.

Our customers can win up to $899 on e-tabs, with 77 games available.

Q:  Do you have plans for expanding or renovating Otter's Saloon? Or is it best to 'don't change anything'?

A:  We don't have plans for expanding Otter's. It's kinda perfect the way it is. We are a staple in Northeast.

Q:  How do we follow your news?

A:  Come by and visit us at 617 Central Avenue SE. We’ll be here. We’re also on Facebook.

Here's to good times and good friends at Otter's!

Theatre in the Round Announces Ghosts in the Theatre Storytelling and Ghost Tours, October 18 and 19

One weekend only - Ghost tours and supernatural-themed storytelling on stage at Theatre in the Round! 

The guided tours of the building feature the history of the building as well as anecdotes about supernatural phenomena collected over the years. The 114-year-old building, which survived the Cedar Avenue Fire of 1959 and the Bimbo's fire of 1968, has been home to Theatre in The Round Players since 1969. Tours are offered at various times over Friday and Saturday and include actors telling a variety of stories and sharing theatre lore.

The night of themed storytelling, “Ghosts in the Theatre,” will be offered at 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday as an accessible version of the tour for folks who may not wish to traverse through the entire building. Audiences will be able to enjoy the same stories on the stage as well as clips from the movie Ghost Light by John Gaspard and Mary Kaeding that was filmed at Theatre in the Round in 2013.

Storytellers include Michael Bak, Jim Chase, David Harrison, Bailey Hess, Daniel Hildebrand, Shelley Nelson, Larisa Netterlund, Bobbie Smith, and Amir Sherif.

Tickets for tours must be purchased in advance.

*     *    *   Ticket Details   *     *    * 

Tour Times: Friday, October 18, 9pm & 10:30pm; Saturday, October 19, 3:30pm, 5pm & 9pm

Tour Tickets: $35

Ghosts in the Theatre Storytelling Tickets: $25

More info & Tickets: https://www.theatreintheround.org/home/season-placeholder/special-events/

Box Office Phone:  612-333-3010

Mia Announces “Catch of the Day” Exhibit and Naming Contest

Imai Sadamasa, Napoleon Fish, 2023, glazed stoneware 

The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) invites visitors to dive into "Catch of the Day," an immersive exhibit celebrating the profound relationship between Japanese culture and the sea. Open from October 12, 2024 through May 25, 2025, this exhibit blends art, tradition, and modern interactive elements, offering a unique experience for all ages.

At the heart of the exhibition is a breathtaking fish sculpture by Imai Sadamasa, a rising star in the world of contemporary ceramics. Mia curators first discovered Sadamasa’s extraordinary work during Asia Week in New York, where his piece captivated them. Hailing from a multigenerational family of ceramicists, Sadamasa’s craftsmanship is unparalleled. His featured sculpture, the exhibit’s centerpiece, underwent an intricate process of nine kiln firings, with multiple layers of paint and glaze, producing a mesmerizing, delicate finish.

"Just like Minnesotans, the Japanese also love fish,” added Mai Yamaguchi, PhD, Andrew W. Mellon Assistant Curator of Japanese and Korean Art at Mia. “This exhibition is about how people relate to nature— in this case, the ocean—and the ways artists have represented that relationship."

What’s in a name? 

In an interactive twist, Mia invites visitors to help name Sadamasa’s stunning fish sculpture. From October 10-31, a naming contest will be hosted via Instagram, Facebook, and in-person at Mia through a QR code. The artist will personally choose the winning name, which will be announced on social media. The lucky winner will receive a custom plush replica of the sculpture. Unique enamel pins featuring Sadamasa’s fish will be available to in-person participants.

"Mia has a proud tradition of introducing up-and-coming artists to the Midwest, and this exhibit is no exception," said Katie Luber, Nivin & Duncan MacMillan Director & President at Mia. "We are excited to see the creativity of our visitors through their name submissions and look forward to making the winning name a part of our permanent collection."

“Catch of the Day” merges art, culture, and community participation. It is also featured in our Family Day programming in November, where kids can create fish-themed artwork (and use textured plates to give it scales) alongside Mia's teaching artists.

Voices in the Dark – A One-Night-Only Immersive Paint and Sip Mystery at Oya Arts

10/14/24 Editor's Note - Due to demand, a second date (Oct 31) has been added: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/halloween-voices-in-the-dark-a-haunted-who-done-it-paint-and-sip-mystery-tickets-1047069451917?aff=oddtdtcreator

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

For one night only, October 26, at the Oya Arts Studio in the Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson Street NE, you can participate in a Halloween edition of a who-done-it paint and sip mystery. We spoke to Karen Caldwell, Producer of Voices in the Dark about the experience – you’ll be assigned a character to reenact, have fun painting and sipping, nosh on delicious Caribbean treats provided by Channa Trinidadian Kitchen and will solve the mystery of a haunted attic. Get tickets here.

Q:  As producer of Voices in the Dark, what do you hope the participants will experience? 

A:  I want participants to experience something they've never experienced before - this is not your typical paint and sip. At Oya Arts, we do things a little differently. We combine the fun of painting with a fully immersive experience, and for Voices in the Dark, we're turning the studio into a Victorian attic for the evening. So, participants can expect mysteries, riddles, and even a few scares along the way!

My hope is that people will feel like they're stepping into a story, where they’re not just painting but becoming part of a thrilling, haunted tale. Each person will take on a character, uncover clues, and work together to solve the mystery. It’s not just about the art - it’s about getting caught up in the atmosphere, the suspense and having a blast in a way that’s totally unique. I want them to walk away feeling like they’ve created something special and had an unforgettable experience that they couldn't get anywhere else.

Karen CaldwellQ:  Is there a maximum number of participants allowed to register for the event?

A:  We keep it to 20 people to ensure it’s an intimate experience where everyone can fully engage and interact with each other. Since each participant will have a character and are encouraged to get into their role, it’s important that the group stays small enough for everyone to be part of the mystery. This way, everyone has the chance to connect, contribute to the storyline, and fully immerse themselves in the experience.

Q:  Tell us more about the characters we’ll reenact. What might the characters be?

A:  Each participant will be assigned a character to reenact, adding to the immersive experience. The event centers around unraveling the mystery of a long-buried tragedy at Blackwood Manor, where secrets, rumors, and hidden motives have haunted the family for years.

Each participant will step into a character, holding key pieces of the puzzle as the night unfolds. Every character brings their own story and secrets, making them vital to uncovering the truth that haunts the manor.

Q:  This sounds really eerie and fun. Why just one night?

A:  We’re really excited about the event. Right now, we’re only running it for one night to keep it special and exclusive. However, if the demand is high enough and we get a lot of interest, we may consider adding another night to give more people a chance to experience it. So, stay tuned - there could be more opportunities to join in the mystery!

Q:  What type of art will participants be creating?

A:  The painting itself will be a surprise, revealed on the night of the event! But don’t worry, everyone will get their own personal canvas and acrylic paints, and an artist will guide you step-by-step through the process. No previous art experience is necessary - it’s all about having fun and getting into the spirit of the evening while creating something unique to take home with you.

Q:  Is there a prize for solving the mystery?

A:  Yes, there is a prize for solving the mystery! Everyone who guesses correctly will have their name entered into a hat, and one lucky winner will get to choose from a cool range of prizes. These include a private art class for two with an English afternoon tea experience, a ticket to a future paint and sip event, or a free art print of their choice. Plus, there’s also a prize for the best costume! One thing we love to do at our paint and sip events is always give participants a chance to win something fun, so there’s plenty to look forward to!

Q:  How can we be notified of other upcoming events?

A:  There’s always something exciting happening at Oya Arts! We run our immersive paint and sip events every couple of months. So far, we’ve had themes like a secret agent paint and sip, an art heist, a 1920s murder mystery, and now our Halloween special. We also offer art meditation sessions, private lessons with an English afternoon tea experience, and private events for birthdays, bachelorette parties, and team-building sessions for organizations.

We’re not giving away too much just yet, but keep an eye out for our immersive art escape room coming to Minneapolis early next year - watch this space!

To stay in the loop on upcoming events, you can follow us on Instagram, check out our website and sign up for our newsletter!

Spoon and Stable Announces 2 Pop-up Events to Benefit Eric Pham's Khue's Kitchen

Chef Gavin Kaysen with Chef Eric Pham, photo: Spoon and Stable

Chef Eric Pham recently lost his restaurant, Khue’s Kitchen, due to a tragic fire in August. Before breaking out on his own, Chef Pham spent two years at Spoon and Stable contributing an incredible work ethic while honoring his family and the legacy that they built at Quang. In support of Chef Pham, Spoon and Stable is planning to host a two night pop-up menu in the bar and lounge with a percentage of revenue from the special menu items going to Khue’s Kitchen. 

The pop-up events are Thursday, October 24 & Friday, October 25, 4pm - 10pm each night.

A special menu by Chef Eric Pham will be offered along with 3 special themed cocktail offerings. The regular Spoon and Stable à la carte menu will also be available, although they hope guests will want to try the menu offerings from Chef Pham if they are dining in the bar and lounge on these nights:.

Crispy Pork Lettuce Wraps

Butter lettuce, padded noodles, shiso, scallion oil, cucumber, nuoc mam (fish sauce), herb salad

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Lion’s Head Pork Meatball

Tomato sauce, banh mi bread, chili oil, scallions, cilantro

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Fried Chicken Sandwich

Chili crunch, herb aioli, b&b pickles, lettuce, tomato, brioche bun

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Five Spice Tofu

Jasmine rice, kimchi, fried shallots, mint, scallions, cilantro

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Sesame Balls

Salted caramel, yellow bean, coconut flakes

Choreographing Balance | Diane Willow & Sarah Abdel-Jelil Art Opening at Washburn Lofts, October 17

Opening Reception Thursday, October 17, 4PM - 6PM        On View October 17 - December 30

Join your neighbors at Washburn Lofts for the art opening of Choreographing Balance | Diane Willow & Sarah Abdel-Jelil. Refreshments will be served. Washburn Lofts is located at 700 S 2nd Street. Parking is on the street, and the entrance to the building is through a marked gate that will be open on 2nd Street with the building entrance in the passageway. 

Diane Willow is a multi-modal artist and creative catalyst who creates art by any medium necessary. She calls upon technological modes of extending our senses and the intangible ways that our bodies intuit space and presence to invite people to become choreographers of their experience of art. Since receiving her graduate degree in art from the Center for Advanced Visual Studies at MIT, she has been artist in residence at the MIT Media Lab, Osher Fellow at the Exploratorium, San Francisco, guest professor at the Beijing Film Academy, China. She exhibited at: Apex Art, NYC, MIT Museum, Dayton Art Museum, Boston Harbor, New Media Art Triennial, Beijing, Kaihua Temple, Shanxi, China, and School of Creative Media, Hong Kong. She is Professor of Interdisciplinary Art and Participatory Culture, UMN Department of Art.  

Sarah Abdel-Jelil is a Mauritanian-American filmmaker, dancer, and multi-media artist based in Minneapolis, MN. Having grown up in eight different countries in a multicultural home, her artwork explores notions of home, movement, and liminal spaces. She holds a BA in cinema and media studies from Carleton College and is currently pursuing her MFA at the University of Minnesota ('25) where she is exploring movement, soft focus, and kaleidoscopes. She is a recipient of the 2019/20 MCAD-Jerome Foundation Fellowship for Early Career Artists and the 2017 Minnesota State Arts Board Artist Initiative Grant. She has completed residencies at Rosy Simas Danse three thirty one space (Minneapolis, MN), Caldera Arts Center (Sisters, OR), and Château de La Napoule (Mandelieu-La Napoule, France). 

Marcela Lorca Reflects on Final Project with Ten Thousand Things Theater

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Marcela Lorca

A Discussion with Marcela Lorca, Artistic Director

Ten Thousand Things Theater's current production of Helen will be the final show for Artistic Director, Marcela Lorca. The play began its tour October 3 and runs through November 10. We talked to Marcela about the themes of Euripides’ play and its relevance today, and her reflections on her time at Ten Thousand Things Theater.

Q:  You’ve been the Artistic Director at Ten Thousand Things (TTT) for 6 years. Helen will be your last production there - what are your thoughts as you reflect on your time at the theater?

A:  I feel immense gratitude for this great community of artists, colleagues, and diverse audience members. They’ve given me the opportunity to bring unique stories to life in ways that have taught me so much. I’ve learned, I’ve dreamed, and I’ve collaborated in atmospheres of joy, creativity, and love. What else can one ask for? TTT will always have a special place in my heart.

Q:  Helen by Euripides was first produced in 412 BCE. What themes from the play do you think are relevant today?

A:  The play asks some important and universal questions in a unique language that blends music, comedy, and high drama: How can we discern between what’s true or what may be false? Does it sound familiar? Is war inevitable? Why can’t we solve our problems through dialogue? Do Gods exist? And if so, how do they treat mortals?

Q:  Great job casting this production! How did you go about recruiting such a stellar cast?

A:  It is a slow and thoughtful process. This was a challenging one as we needed a cast of great singers who could embody specific roles and have the generosity and skill that deep choral/ensemble work requires.

Q:  What’s next on the horizon for you and how may we follow your news? 

A:  I’m excited to focus solely on directing for the foreseeable future. I am based in Minnesota but will travel where the work takes me. In the coming months, I will direct a new play called “December: A love years in the making” by Marisela Treviño Orta at the Alley Theater in Houston, and then I will direct Nilo Cruz’s “Anna in the Tropics” at the Asolo Theater in Sarasota. I look forward to my next artistic chapter and to continue my work in different venues and formats. I will be posting about my work on social media and on my website: marcelalorca.com.

Please note - Approximately half of TTT’s award-winning shows are performed for paying public audiences, and the other half are performed for free in locations where people may not have ample opportunities to see live, professional theater, including correctional facilities, shelters, English Language Learner centers, centers for individuals with disabilities, and low-income senior and youth centers. There is one performance at Open Book (October 27) and many at nearby Hennepin Methodist Church and the Capri Theater. Check the schedule and please come out to support this worthy theater company.

Fall Street Sweeping Will Start Tuesday, October 22

Crews are preparing to sweep streets across Minneapolis this month and November to clean the streets before winter. Street sweeping helps keep leaves and debris out of the storm drains and from ending up in our lakes and creeks and the Mississippi River.

Minneapolis Public Works will begin the big task of curb-to-curb street sweeping throughout the city Tuesday, Oct. 22. During the four weeks of the comprehensive fall street sweep, crews will clean about 1,000 miles of city streets. To make sure crews can do the best job possible, temporary hot pink “No Parking” signs will be posted at least 24 hours in advance so streets will be clear of cars when they’re swept. The first signs will be posted Monday, Oct. 21, and sweeping will begin the next day. Anyone who parks on the street will need to follow posted parking rules or their cars may be ticketed and towed.

Ways to stay informed of the parking rules:

• Interactive web feature – The Street Sweeping Schedule Map will be available on the City’s website before street sweeping begins. Visitors to the website will be able to find out which week their street is scheduled to be swept. Then, on the weekend before each of the four weeks, the schedule for the upcoming week will be broken down to show which day of the week streets are scheduled to be swept.
• “No Parking” signs – City crews will post pink “No Parking” signs at least 24 hours before sweeping any streets. Parking will be banned from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the day a street is swept. However, the “No Parking” signs will be removed as soon as possible after a street has been completely swept to allow people to resume parking after the signs are removed. Vehicles not in compliance with “No Parking” signs may be ticketed and towed to the Minneapolis Impound Lot. The sweeping takes several steps, so people should not resume parking until the signs are removed.
• Email and text alerts – You can sign up to get an alert automatically emailed or texted to you at the start of street sweeping.
• Social media – The City will use Facebook and X to post periodic street sweeping updates and information.
• Videos – Street sweeping is explained in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong on the City’s YouTube channel and on Minneapolis City TV.

Clean streets mean healthier water

Minneapolis streets are swept completely curb to curb with enforcement of parking rules once in the spring and again in the fall. You can do your part by not pushing leaves, grass clippings or other debris into City streets. It’s bad for our lakes and waterways, it can cause safety hazards and it’s against the law.

Leaves that wash into storm drains end up in our lakes and creeks and the Mississippi River. They may quickly begin to break down, creating pollutants that overfertilize lake water and help harmful aquatic plants and algae grow. The murky lake water that results is not good for swimming or fishing. It can also harm wildlife and pets.

Learn more about street sweeping.

Nordic Village Returns to Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis November 1

Public is Invited to the Nordic Village Launch Party and Open House on Saturday, November 2, 11am - 3pm 

Back by popular demand, guests and community members are welcome to tour Nordic Village, shop local vendors and visit The Spa and Cedar and Stone Nordic Sauna Terrace. This November 2nd event, including a welcome drink compliments of Moët Hennessy, is complimentary and open to the public.

Nordic Village offers you an opportunity to celebrate the wonder of winter with a Minnesota cabin dining experience in the middle of the city. Featuring a new addition in The Lodge – a cozy cocktail lounge with seating for up to 24 for pre- and post-dinner cocktails, private events and buyouts – the 2024 Nordic Village experience includes evolving Nordic-inspired menus, optional wine pairings and apparel and accessories.

Reservations and Private Events

Reservations for Nordic Village – which include the option to book a special rate on a Hotel room - are available on Tock. When The Lodge is not booked for private events and buyouts, it will be open to Hotel guests and residents, community members and those dining in Nordic Village or Mara Restaurant and Bar on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations required. Event and meeting planners are welcome to contact the Hotel’s Events Team at sales.minneapolis@fourseasons.com to learn more and arrange pre-opening tours.

The below photo is from 2023 when the cabins were being lifting into place.

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis is located at 245 Hennepin Avenue.

Be That Neighbor Annual Fundraiser at MacPhail with The Steeles, October 24

Be That Neighbor is a local non-profit that uses 100% of contributions to fund programs such Mill City Singers, the Sallie Steele Birdsong Scholarship, Yoga in the Park, Hope 612 and Groundworks. These programs are free to all participants.

Their annual fundraising event will take place 7pm October 24 at MacPhail Center for Music, featuring a concert by local music legends, The Steeles. Tickets are tax deductible. Buy Tickets 

.

Here are some reasons to attend:

Holidazzle Returns!

Free Festival on Five Blocks December 18 – 22

The Minneapolis Downtown Council has announced the return of Holidazzle, Wednesday, December 18 through Sunday, December 22. Five blocks of Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis, from 6th Street to Peavey Plaza (11th), will transform into a free and family-friendly holiday experience. Holidazzle 2024 promises a vibrant holiday atmosphere filled with fun, joy, and holiday cheer in the heart of the city.

The 2024 Holidazzle will bring community together to enjoy seasonal activities and entertainment while also supporting local small businesses. Guests are invited to stroll the Nicollet Mall as it becomes a festive playground complete with twinkling lights, performances, and tasty bites from local food trucks.

“Holidazzle is the perfect way to bring people together to celebrate our beautiful city in our winter season,” says Adam Duininck, president and CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council. “From Minnesota-made treats to community performances to families making their holiday memories, it’s a true showcase of the talent, creativity, and spirit that makes Minneapolis shine!” 

Holidazzle highlights will include:

• Light & art installations
• Holiday shopping pop-ups featuring Minneapolis Craft Market, Dayton’s Holiday Market, Chameleon Shoppes featuring BIPOC women-owned vendors, and Minneapolis Vintage Market
• Two entertainment stages
• Free Roller Skating and Minne-Golf
• and of course, visits with Santa 

Admission to Holidazzle is free and open to the public. “Friends of Holidazzle” passes are available for purchase starting November 1 and are partially tax deductible. The passes include valet parking, access to indoor restrooms, a limited-edition souvenir, and a Santa “fast pass.” 

New this year: the Holidazzle Hospitality Hub

Looking for the perfect holiday party location? The Holidazzle Hospitality Hub is a private indoor location on Nicollet Mall designed exclusively for festive fiestas. Let the team at Minneapolis Downtown Council help create your custom celebration for 50 – 1,000 guests complete with jolly seasonal decor, branded welcome signage, audio system, and holiday playlists. For more information and to book your gathering, contact Kitty Fahey at kfahey@mplsdowntown.com.

Holidazzle is partnering with Target, Xcel Energy, CenterPoint Energy, Fulton, Sherman Associates, and many others to showcase our treasured Nicollet Mall. 

While you’re downtown for Holidazzle, be sure to include one of many other seasonal activities on your itinerary such as performing arts and concerts at Hennepin Arts, Minnesota Orchestra, Guthrie, Fine Line, Dakota, and two Timberwolves games at Target Center. 

For more information and a complete schedule of events, please visit Holidazzle.com. 

Dates and Hours

December 18, 19 and 20, 4 – 9 p.m.

December 21, Noon – 9 p.m.

December 22, Noon – 6 p.m.

Holidazzle Social Media

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter @Holidazzle, Hashtags: #Holidazzle, #mymplsdt