Be a Friend of the Mill District

Article by Claudia Kittock

As many of you may know, the Friends of the Mill District is a small, neighborhood charity. Our mission is to connect all people in the Mill District neighborhood and surrounding areas. How do we do that? We hire some of the very finest artists in the metropolitan area to lead groups that we have founded and manage.  The Mill City Singers, Mill City Yoga, and Mill City Players are three such groups. Each of them is free and open to all, which is another part of the mission of the Friends. If we are going to be open to all people, we must make sure that a ‘membership fee’ is not an impediment. We work very hard to make sure that every segment of the population in our community knows they are welcome and feels welcome when they join us. Our mantra is that we are ‘stronger together’ and we have learned the truth of that statement through the growth of each of our groups.

Obviously, the work that we do, can only be done because of a loyal group of contributors who believe in the work we are doing. We are so very grateful to each and every one of them and love the work. It does require money to pay the salaries of our amazing artists who include J.D. Steele, Fred Steele, Laurie Omodt-Tebrake, James A. Williams, Patricia Brown, Ahanti Young, and soon to include Ember Reichgott-Junge and Andrea Mirenda. 100% of the donations are used to pay our artists. All other work is done on a volunteer basis.

The Steeles

On October 17th, the Friends will be holding their first fundraiser, starring the Steele Family in their only appearance in the Mill District this year. We are honored to be hosting this amazing group and hope you will be able to attend. The evening will begin at 6:00 at the Mill City Museum with Taste of the Mill District, which will feature donated appetizers from many of the restaurants in our community, along with a cash bar. At 7:00 the Steeles will take the stage. If you have had the honor of seeing them in concert, you know what to expect. If you have missed them, buckle up, it will be an evening of rollicking music, amazing joy, great laughs, and an evening of community. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com. If you cannot attend and feel the need to support this dynamic group, please go to actblue.com and donate to the Friends of the Mill District.

Look for an announcement on Monday about the newest program the Friends are adding. We can’t confirm the details yet, but get ready for Mill City Dance!!! Be sure to ‘like’ Friends of the Mill District on Facebook for our announcement.

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About Claudia Kittock

Claudia is a resident of the Mill District. In addition to writing for Mill City Times, she is a founding Board Member of Friends of the Mill District. Claudia is the author of Health Through Chaos, mentors young adults at YouthLink, and has served on the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA).

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Contact: claudia@millcitymedia.org 

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project Update

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

Hennepin Ave. reconstruction project, led by City of Minneapolis Public Works, will be reconstructed between 12th Street and Washington Avenue beginning Spring 2019.  The project will reconstruct the pavement from building face to building face, including improvements to public and private utility infrastructure, and improved infrastructure for pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and vehicles.

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Latest Project News

 

Utility work continues along the project corridor.  Primary scopes of work will continue to be Xcel Energy, CenterPoint Energy, and the Sanitary Sewer work.

What's Coming Up 

The Sanitary work is progressing toward 11th St over the next couple weeks and is finishing up the work at 9th by the end of the month.  Xcel is progressing toward 4th Street and CenterPoint will be jumping over toward Washington. 

No closures planned over the next two weeks.

See Update attached for more infomation

Hennepin_Update_Vol13.pdf

For more information on this project contact: 

Construction Manager, hennepinCM@minneapolismn.gov or 612-225-4049

www.hennepindowntown.com 

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

Editor's note - This is an ongoing series of updates as the North Loop Reconstruction and Pedestrian Improvements project.

North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements

The North Loop Reconstruction & Pedestrian Improvements Project consists of two separate projects:

1. A full street reconstruction along 3rd St N between 10th Ave N and 5th Ave N
2. A pedestrian improvement project generally bounded by 10th Ave N on the north, 1st Ave on the south, West River Parkway on the east, and 4th St N on the west

* North Loop Reconstruction Updates *

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

5th Ave N

• Driveways are 90% complete
• Sidewalks are 95% complete
• Placed the 3rd lift of asphalt today
• All lighting foundations installed

7th Ave N

• Placed curb on the north side of Washington
• Completed driveways
• Sidewalk 90% complete

8th Ave N

• Placed curb on the north side of Washington
• Started asphalt paving on the north side of Washington
• Finished placing driveways
• Finished installing concrete parking bays
• Placed 1st and 2nd lift of asphalt

9th Ave N

• Finished placing driveways
• Started asphalt paving on the north side of Washington
• Finished installing concrete parking bay
• Placed 1st and 2nd lift of asphalt

3rd St N

• Completed power pole relocation
• Sidewalk installation 50% complete
• Placed 2nd lift of asphalt from 5th Ave N to 6th Ave N

WORK ANTICIPATED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND NEXT WEEK

5th Ave N

• Finish driveway placement
• Continue sidewalk placement

7th Ave N

• Continue work on the north side of Washington-sidewalk

8th Ave N

• Continue work on the north side of Washington-sidewalk and pedestrian ramp
• Start installing brick pavers between Washington and the decorative rail, access will be to and from 3rd St N

9th Ave N

• Continue placing driveways
• Continue placing sidewalks
• Finish placing parking bay
• Continue work on the north side of Washington-sidewalk and pedestrian ramp
• Start installing brick pavers between Washington and the decorative rail, access will be to and from 3rd St N

3rd St N

• Continue sidewalk installation on both sides
• Start driveway installation
• Begin installation of parking bays
• Place concrete intersections at 8th and 9th Aves N once bricks are placed between Washington and decorative rail. Once the concrete intersections are in place all properties on 8th and 9th will need to be accessed from Washington Ave

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

 * North Loop Pedestrian Improvements Updates *

WORK THIS PAST WEEK

 1st St N

• NW corner 4th Ave SE - installed curb and part of the landing

 2nd St N

• North side of 2nd at 10th Ave N-Poured missing panels
• SE corner of 5th Ave N - Finished storm sewer, installed curb and landing
• SW corner 3rd Ave N – Continued storm sewer work
• SE corner 1st Ave – Installed curb and landing

WORK FOR THE REMAINDER OF THIS WEEK AND INTO NEXT WEEK

 The concrete crews will be following the sewer crews work over the next week includes:

 1st St N

• 4th Ave SE and NW corner- Finish NW corner, start storm work on SE corner

 2nd St N

• 1st Ave N – Currently there are issues getting into any of these corners, do to existing construction.
• 3rd Ave N – SW corner – Continuing sewer work, curb and asphalt, remove existing signal foundation, pour new foundation
• 5th Ave N – SE corner pour curb
• 8th Ave N South side and NE Corner – Possibly start sewer work

Other

• All signal installation will start mid-October
• Remaining concrete work will continue through September, possibly into October

For more information on this project, visit the project website.

Miscellaneous

Stakeholder Meeting -These meetings are informal, held biweekly and intended to offer residents and businesses on the job an opportunity to get construction updates, ask construction and access related questions.

Date/Time:  October 2, 7:30 am to 8:30 am

Location:   Corner Coffee 514 N 3rd St #102

Contact Stephanie Malmberg (612-673-3365) or John Benjamin (651-443-1096) with any construction related questions or concerns.

MCBA Announces "New Editions” - Celebrating More Than 50 Local and International Book Artists

Via a September 26 News Release:

New Editions Celebrates More Than 50 Local and International Book Artists 

Minnesota Center for Book Arts hosts two-day showcase of all-new book art, including a public sale and book arts-themed Story Slam

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As a hub for artists of all kinds—bookbinders, papermakers, letterpress printers, and more—Minnesota Center for Book Arts has devoted two days solely to the celebration of new book art created within the last year. The event kicks off on Friday, October 18, 7-10pm with a ticketed preview party, followed by a juried public sale on Saturday, October 19, 10am-3pm. 

“This year’s selection of work is fresh, fun, and really speaks to the depth and breadth of what book art can be. We love being able to showcase such a variety of artists and the various contemporary processes and themes artists are incorporating into their work,” says Torey Erin, Exhibitions and Artist Programs Manager.

“You’ll see examples of letterpress printing, bookbinding, paper making, zine making, marbling, calligraphy, typography, origami, collage, and more. This is a great event for members of the public who are new to the book arts and want to support our artist community, as well as for longtime arts lovers who want to add new work to their collection,” says Executive Director Elysa Voshell.

NEW EDITIONS PREVIEW PARTY

MCBA kicks off the weekend showcase with a ticketed preview party featuring first access to the sale and MCBA’s first-ever Book Arts Story Slam. Five local artists representing a variety of disciplines have crafted true stories inspired by the theme Book Arts Impressions: You Never Forget Your First! MCBA’s Story Slam lineup includes:

●  Kent Aldrich, Master Printer, The Nomadic Press
●  Robyn Awend, Artist & Director of Visual Arts & Co-Director of the Center for Arts & Culture at the Sabes JCC
●  Dara Beevas, Publisher, Wise Ink
●  Mary Bruno, Letterpress Printer, Bruno Press
●  Todd Thyberg, Founder, Angel Bomb

Ticket holders will receive a limited-edition tote bag, pictured below, which was printed at MCBA by screen printer Kirsten Olson and designed by Frankie Castillo, and will also have the opportunity to participate in a raffle featuring local goods and services.

New Editions is supported by Presenting Sponsor Star Tribune; Signature Sponsors Cathy Ryan and Doris Engibous; and Promotional Sponsors Bolger, Delaware North - Open Book At MSP Airport, Jennifer Martin, and The Sherwin-Williams Company.

The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis is in the Running for a Partners in Preservation: Main Streets Grant

Excerpt from a September 24 News Release:

The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis, 410 Oak Grove Street 

American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, in collaboration with Main Street America, announced today that their annual Partners in Preservation campaign this year will shine a light on historic buildings and sites celebrating the contributions of women in local communities across the country.

In honor of the upcoming 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, guaranteeing women the right to vote, the Partners in Preservation program will feature 20 sites that each play a role in highlighting and raising awareness for the often unrecognized contributions of women to American history and society.  From the home of Colorado’s first female African American doctor in Denver, to famed author Harper Lee’s hometown courthouse in Monroeville, Alabama, these sites celebrate the triumphs, struggles and rich history of women in America.

Beginning today through October 29, anyone can vote for their favorite Partners in Preservation: Main Streets at VoteYourMainStreet.org. The voting platform is hosted by media partner National Geographic, and Delta Air Lines is also joining as a campaign sponsor for the third year in a row. People can cast up to five votes each day of the campaign. The historic sites with the most votes will receive a share of $2 million in preservation funding from American Express, and each local partner is receiving an initial grant of $10,000 to increase public awareness of the importance of these historic places and build grassroots support for their Main Street district. Winning districts will be announced on October 30.

Included in the 20 sites vying for Partners in Preservation: Main Streets grants is The Woman's Club of Minneapolis

The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis was founded by women, for women, as a place to gather and engage in educational opportunities, civic contributions, and friendly association. The Club’s auditorium has historically hosted diverse forms of theatrical practice and public engagement, and currently fills a vital need in the Twin Cities arts community by providing a safe and accessible performance space for independent artists.

This space, formally called The Assembly, needs updates and upgrades to better serve the community. Funding will help replace the seats and repair the damaged floor—a critical first phase of a three-phase renovation.

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Partners in Preservation is a community-based partnership, created in 2006, to engage the public in preserving historic places. Over the past 13 years, the program has provided more than $28 million in support of 260 historic sites across the U.S., including 20 national parks, 14 cities, and 12 main street communities, and has engaged more than a million people through events and online voting. Partners in Preservation: Main Streets is back for its third year in a row and seeks to inspire long-term support from local citizens for sites on Main Streets across the country.

For more information and to vote daily through October 29, the public is encouraged to visit VoteYourMainStreet.org.

See full Press Release.

Eleven Closes on Financing, Construction to Begin in October

Eleven Closes on Financing from Industry Leaders

Largest Condominium Lenders, Related Fund Management and Bank OZK Back Eleven

Ground breaking is scheduled for October 7 

Eleven, Minneapolis’ first luxury condominium project designed by a world-renowned architect, has closed on $188.5 million in financing from the industry’s leading lenders; Related Fund Management as the mezzanine lender and Bank OZK as the senior lender.

Dougherty Funding LLC, whose team is led by Executive Vice President Murray Kornberg, arranged Eleven’s financing with the two largest condominium construction lenders in the country. Eleven’s financing represents the largest construction loan ever secured for a condominium project in the state of Minnesota. 

“Having two of the industry’s leading capital providers approve the largest loan ever for a ground up multi-family project in the state is a testament to the vitality of this project,” Kornberg said. “The participation of these lenders in this project is a significant endorsement of Eleven and is consistent with the response we are currently seeing from buyers and the community at large.”

Eleven will be the first residential project in the city to be designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA), based in New York City. Luigi Bernardi of Arcadia LLC is serving as the project sponsor and co-developer and Ryan Companies is serving as co-developer, builder, and is partnering with RAMSA as the architect. 

The 550-foot, 41-story Eleven tower will be Minneapolis’ tallest residential building. Local firms Peterssen/Keller Architects and Martha Dayton Design and Lakes Sotheby’s International Realty are also part of the Eleven team that is ensuring the building’s interior is as thoughtful as its exterior.

Amenities include a large landscaped terrace, a 25-yard lap pool, a private motor court, a 24/7 doorman an expansive fitness suite and yoga studio, a multi-sport court, a library, a golf simulator, a children’s splash pad, a demonstration kitchen with dining, residential and guest parking, a retail space for a restaurant, and more. 

This is the first foray into the Minneapolis marketplace for Related Fund Management’s credit platform. Related Fund Management is the private equity arm of Related Companies, one of the largest privately-owned real estate firms in the United States which boasts a $60 billion+ real estate pipeline and portfolio and an employee base of over 4,000 across the United States. Related Fund Management’s credit platform has originated over $2.25 billion of loans primarily in major U.S. cities since 2015. Bank OZK’s Real Estate Specialties Group is a preeminent, market-leading lender focused primarily on senior secured commercial real estate financing in the United States.

Lakes Sotheby’s International Realty recently launched sales out of the 6,000 SF world class Eleven Sales Gallery.  Project website is elevenontheriver.com

Hennepin County Administrator Proposed 2020 Budget

Via a September 17 announcement from Hennepin County:

On Tuesday, Hennepin County Administrator David Hough proposed a 2020 budget of $2.5 billion to the Hennepin County Board.

The operating portion of this budget totals $2 billion, an increase of $71.6 million from the adjusted 2019 budget. The capital portion totals $495.1 million, an increase of $16.1 million over the adjusted 2019 amount.

The proposed net property tax levy is $869 million, an increase of 4.75% compared to last year. Property tax covers 35% of the overall county budget. Federal and state sources, fees and services, and other revenues fund the remainder of the budget.

Hough’s proposed budget includes funding to add 36 full-time equivalent employees to the county’s existing workforce of 9,100 employees.

The budget focuses on reducing disparities that impact many residents in the areas of education, employment, health, housing, income, justice and transportation. It will also sustain the county’s progress in transforming the child welfare system to a child well-being model.

Capital Budget

Some of the key drivers of the proposed 2020 capital budget include:

• $71 million for road, bridge and trail infrastructure
• $284 million for light rail transit infrastructure
• $9 million for environment and energy, community works investments and public works facilities
• $27 million for public safety and judiciary facilities and infrastructure
• $26 million for health facilities including NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center, Regional Medical Examiner’s Facility and Hennepin County Medical Center
• $78 million for libraries and general office facilities

Budget Hearing Schedule

View the schedule of public meetings at hennepin.us/budgets.

Property Values

Property tax valuations impact the property tax portion of the budget. The Hennepin County Assessor's Office assesses your property and estimates the value it would likely sell for on the open market, which is one factor used in determining your property tax. Other factors include property tax levies set by the school districts, city, county or special taxing districts that the property is in.

Find out more about property values.

Look for more news on the Hennepin County website at hennepin.us/news.

Discover how we're making a difference in our communities at hennepin.us/stories.

Explore Downtown Living 2019 is this Saturday, September 21

Minneapolis Downtown Council presents Explore Downtown Living 2019, Saturday, September 21 from 10a - 5p.

Explore Downtown Living is a FREE event that lets you tour Downtown Minneapolis and all it has to offer at your own pace. Visit approximately 20 residential communities—checking out the views from each—while enjoying deals and specials from local businesses throughout.

Over eight tour dates since 2015, Explore Downtown Living has welcomed more than 7,000 people downtown and delivered 19,000 apartment tours-all for free! There is no solicitation to sign leases, only a great opportunity to see residential properties up close (including their housing units, party rooms, roof decks, fitness centers and more) while also getting to know downtown's five distinct neighborhoods: Central Core, East Town, Loring Park, North Loop and Northeast.

PLUS, local restaurants, bars, retail shops, fitness clubs and more are offering special promotions and deals for those who take part in Explore Downtown Living.

Download a free ride pass courtesy of Metro Transit as you enjoy Explore Downtown Living.

Mpls Downtown Improvement District announces 2019 Greening & Public Realm Award Winners

Via a September 17 News Release from the Minneapolis Downtown Council:

The Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) announced today its 10th annual Greening & Public Realm Award winners, a group that included seven first-time winners among the 12 categories decided by an interactive public vote.

The Greening Awards aim to showcase greening efforts by organizations and companies that help beautify the downtown area through enhancing our urban landscape.

This year’s first-time award winners [full list below] in this year’s categories are Mill City Farmers Market (Best Small Activated Space), Gateway Park (Best Small Green Space), Nimbus (Best Public Art), Barrio (Best Outdoor Café), Grant Park Median (Best Streetscape), Demi (Best Entryway Greening), Peavey Plaza (Best Public Realm Improvement),

Loring Park was recognized both for Best Large Activated Space and for Best Neighborhood.

Loring Greenway won a Greening Award for a record 10th straight year—including winning Best Large Green Space for the fifth year in a row. The Local won its eight Greening Award (Best Façade Greening), Minneapolis Convention Center won its fourth (Best Streetscape Infrastructure).

“We appreciate all the efforts being done to make downtown a greener place, and we are excited to congratulate the 2019 Greening and Public Realm Award winners,” Mpls Downtown Improvement District President & CEO Steve Cramer said. “Your efforts and initiative directly enhance the overall experience and vibrancy of downtown for all who live, work, visit and explore here.”

Winners will receive a commemorative Greening Award created by Wood from the Hood, a Minneapolis-based company that reclaims discarded trees from urban neighborhoods and creates high-quality wood products. Each award will display the year the award was issued. Winning locations also received a Greening Awards winning logo placed on site.

The Mpls DID accepted public nominations for green spaces throughout August, and finalists were announced on August 27. Voting for finalists remained open through September 13.

The finalists, nominated by the public, were selected and categorized by members of the Mpls DID staff based on criteria including overall year-over-year enhancements as well as continued excellence in adding vibrancy to the public realm.

This year’s results include the following winners:

 Small Activated Space

·        Mill City Farmers Market* - 47.35%

·        Gethsemane Community Garden – 40.24%

·        Open Book Parklet* - 12.41%

 Small Green Space

·        Gateway Park* - 50.76%

·        Hennepin Healthcare Pocket Park – 21.28%

·        WCCO Plaza – 21.12%

·        RSM Plaza – Pocket Park* - 6.84%

Large Activated Space

·        Loring Park – 36.96%

·        The Commons – 32.34%

·        Nicollet 21.76%

·        Hennepin County Government Center – 8.94%

Large Green Space

·        Loring Greenway – 49.22%

·        Peavey Plaza – 21.72%

·        Gold Medal Park – 21.02%

·        Triangle Park – 8.04%

Façade Greening

·        The Local – 47.86%

·        Lenox Brownstones – 27.77%

·        Borealis North Loop Apartments* - 24.37%

Public Art

·        Nimbus* - 56.37%

·        Radical Playground* - 27.89%

·        Hennepin Theatre Trust – It’s the People* - 15.74%

Outdoor Café

·        Barrio* - 28.10%

·        The News Room – 27.64%

·        Bachelor Farmer Café – 25.08%

·        The Freehouse* - 19.18%

Streetscape

·        Grant Park Median* - 48.26%

·        Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot* - 35.80%

·        HQ Apartments – 15.93%

 Streetscape Infrastructure

·        Minneapolis Convention Center – 44.41%

·        Hennepin-Lyndale Crossroads – 37.16%

·        North Loop Washington Avenue* - 18.43%

 Entryway Greening

·        Demi (Parking Lot)* - 45.85%

·        The Marquette Hotel – 32.36%

·        Canopy by Hilton* - 11.22%

·        Cynthia Froid Group – 10.57%

Public Realm Improvement

·        Peavey Plaza – 49.21%

·        Borealis North Loop Apartments – 14.82%

·        Nimbus – 12.37%

·        Hennepin Theatre Trust – It’s the People – 5.61%

·        Grant Park Median – 4.89%

·        Barrio – 4.46%

·        Radical Playground – 4.17%

·        Open Book Parklet – 2.88%

·        RSM Plaza – Pocket Park – 1.58%

Best Neighborhood

·        Loring Park – 52.46%

·        North Loop – 14.06%

·        Elliot Park – 13.48%

·        Downtown East – 10.00%

·        Downtown West – 10.00%

*  First-time finalist

MSP Film Society Announces Dates And A First Look at Titles for 7th Cine Latino Minneapolis St. Paul Film Festival Nov 1‐7

Via a September 16 News Release:

The Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul (MSP Film Society) announced today the Cine Latino Minneapolis St. Paul Film Festival returns November 1-7 at the Film Society’s Screen #3 at St. Anthony Main Theatre.

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“Cine Latino, developed in collaboration with members of the diverse Spanish-speaking communities in Minnesota, is back to amaze and inspire us all,” said Susan Smoluchowski, MSP Film Society’s Executive Director. More relevant now than ever, and firm in the MSP Film Society’s belief of the unique power of cinema to invigorate, inspire and help to change the world one film at a time, this year’s Cine Latino’s Focus is dedicated to “Cinema with a Conscience”, a wide-ranging selection of films that highlight social, political, environmental justice and activism.

Critically-acclaimed selections include dramas: Carmen & Lola (Spain), The Footballest (Spain) Marighela (Brazil), Litigante (Colombia); documentaries: Your Turn (Brazil), The Children of Maria (Puerto Rico), The Cordillera of Dreams (Chile), When They Left (Ecuador), We Are The Radical Monarchs (USA), The Prado Museum: A Collection of Wonders (Spain), Lives with Flavor Monica Patiño & Lives with Flavor Carlos Gaytán (Mexico); and the animated film Another Day of Life (Spain). Other highlights include ¡VIVA KID FLICKS!, a collection of animated, family-friendly shorts in collaboration with the New York International Children’s Film Festival, part of MSP Film Society’s Nextwave Initiative dedicated to youth film programming and filmmaking.

“The Latin American and Ibero cinematic traditions have long explored the rich and contentious histories of their various nations, shedding light onto complex political legacies while reflecting the regions’ intoxicating mix of cultures,” said Hebe Tabachnik, who returns as Cine Latino Artistic Director for a fourth year. “Today, a new generation of insightful and uncompromised storytellers are diving headlong into their respective nations’ histories and the pressing realities of our current moment.”

The lineup to date of Cine Latino films is listed below. Additional Cine Latino titles, guests, and events will be announced mid-October.

All-Access Passes, 3-Packs, and 6-Packs are now on sale at mspfilm.org. Single tickets will be available for purchase for MSP Film Society Members on October 10, when the full Cine Latino line-up and schedule will also be announced at mspfilm.org. Single tickets will be available to the General Public on October 14. Artistic Director Hebe Tabachnik is available for interviews in English and Spanish.

To ensure that this year’s festival is widely accessible and a true celebration of the Latino communities in Minnesota, a $10,000-goal crowdfunding campaign has been implemented to enrich the program and arrange additional unique opportunities. More donation information can be found at http://weblink.donorperfect.com/MSPFilmSociety/CineLatino2019.

Cine Latino is presented by the Film Society of Minneapolis St. Paul, Minnesota’s leading non-profit exhibitor of international independent cinema. Our mission is to foster a knowledgeable and vibrant appreciation of the art of film from around the globe and its power to inform and transform individuals and communities.

Special Support for Cine Latino is provided by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Additional significant support is provided by DRUMM and Mary Pohlad.

2019 Lineup (full descriptions here):

Another Day of Life (Un día más con vida) 

Carmen and Lola (Carmen y Lola) 

Children of Maria (Los Niños de María)

The Cordillera of Dreams (La Cordillera de los Sueños)

The Footballest (Los Futbolísimos) 

Litigante

Lives with Flavor: Carlos Gaytan

Lives with Flavor: Monica Patiño

Marighella

NYICFF Viva Kid Flicks

The Prado Museum: A Collection of Wonders 

We Are the Radical Monarchs 

When They Left (Cuando ellos se fueron) 

Your Turn (Espero tua (Re)volta)

Hennepin Healthcare’s Center for Hyperbaric Medicine Announces Soothe Your Soles Event, Sept 25

Via a September 16 announcement from Hennepin Healthcare:

Soothe Your Soles: Treating Wounds with Hyperbaric Medicine

Wednesday, September 25 from 6-8pm

Hennepin Healthcare’s Center for Hyperbaric Medicine

716 S 7th Street

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Ever wondered what the hyperbaric chamber looks like at Hennepin Healthcare? We hear about patients being brought there for carbon monoxide poisoning, but did you know they also treat wounds related to diabetes, frostbite and tissue damage related to radiation injury?

Learn more about hyperbaric medicine at Soothe Your Soles: Treating Wounds with Hyperbaric Medicine on Wednesday, September 25 from 6-8pm. The event is free and you’ll have the opportunity to tour the hyperbaric chamber and ask questions about this life-saving technology. The entire team looks forward to meeting you! Register for Soothe Your Soles.

Hennepin Healthcare’s Center for Hyperbaric Medicine has the state’s only 24/7 state-of-the-art hyperbaric oxygen chamber available to care for emergent conditions such as carbon monoxide poisoning and decompression sickness. But hyperbaric medicine therapy is also important in the treatment of chronic medical conditions like refractory osteomyelitis, tissue damage from radiation injury, and foot ulcers in diabetic patients. In this Here 4 Health session emergency physician Tom Masters, MD will provide a tour of our hyperbaric chamber, show you how it works and share information about our innovative coordinated approach to treating diabetic wounds. He will be joined by podiatric surgeon Nicole Bauerly, DPM for an interactive discussion about the unique needs of the feet.

Complimentary parking is available in our HCMC Parking Ramp located at 615 South 6th Street. Take the parking ramp elevator to the second floor and follow the skyway to our Purple Building. Event will be held at the Center for Hyperbaric Medicine on the first floor of the Purple Building.

Water Works Progress Photos from Mill District Resident Doug Verdier

Editors Note: Mill District resident Doug Verdier continues to document the progress of the Water Works project. Below photos were taken on September 10, 2019.

Above, excavators removing debris from basement level of the ruins of the Columbia Flour Mill. Built in 1882, the brick upper level of the six-story structure collapsed in January 1941, and the mill was destroyed four months later in a major fire. Once debris is removed from the lower level of the Columbia Mill, the remaining stone wall will be reinforced on the inside. The wall will be incorporated into the park design overlooking a plaza on the river side.

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Three excavators are working as a team to remove rock, dirt, debris and brick and lift it to street level.

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Among the remnants of the Columbia Mill machinery found in the lower level of the mill was this spool of steel cable.

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Another part of mill machinery. Some of the rubble from the 1941 fire can be seen behind the wheel.

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This piece of mill machinery was caked with mud when it was brought up. The iron section is still bolted to part of a heavy wooden beam. Evidence of the 1941 fire can be seen on the wood.

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Excavation machines at work as seen from W. River Parkway.

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Scaffolding has been erected on the river side of the Columbia Mill wall in preparation for restoration.

Join us for The Steeles and Taste of the Mill District on October 17

Article by Claudia Kittock

'An Evening with the Steeles' event to benefit The Mill City Singers

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We are excited to announce the Steele Family is coming to the Mill District. On October 17, the Steeles will be in concert at the Mill City Museum. The evening will begin with a 6:00p happy hour, featuring light appetizers from area restaurants as part of the ‘Taste of the Mill City’ portion of this evening. A cash bar will be provided by D’Amico.

At 7:00p, the Steeles will begin their 90-minute concert. If you have had the privilege of hearing the Steeles, you know what to expect. It will be an evening of joyous music, sung from the hearts of these incredibly talented singers, accompanied by their equally talented band. 

This is a fundraiser for the Friends of the Mill District. 100% of the proceeds will go to pay the salaries of J.D. and Fred Steele who lead the Mill City Singers. The Singers are a dynamic and integral part of our community, and we are determined to keep them singing. We can’t do it without you! Please come and be part of a joyful evening. 

Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite. If you're unable to attend, but want to support this dynamic neighborhood charity, please consider donating at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/millcitysingers. Don’t wait!

All of the labor to organize and maintain the Singers is donated.

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About Claudia Kittock

Claudia is a resident of the Mill District. In addition to writing for Mill City Times, she is a founding Board Member of Friends of the Mill District. Claudia is the author of Health Through Chaos, mentors young adults at YouthLink, and has served on the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA).

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Contact: claudia@millcitymedia.org 

Pulling Back the Curtain: Remastered Premieres at The Southern

The Southern Theater to Premiere the First Program of the New AMPLIFY Series

Pulling Back the Curtain: Remastered uses dance to make the marginalization of African-American people visible

The Southern Theater’s AMPLIFY series begins September 20-22 with Pulling Back the Curtain: Remastered, a dance show that makes visible the marginalization of African-American people. Each of the choreographies explores themes of oppression, survival, joy, and healing. Created by the collective PBC Nation, the show features the choreographies of Gabby "The Baddie" Abram, Peace Madimutsa, Nehemiah Lucas, and Rayna Bell, and is curated by Gabriel Blackburn.

This group of artists have previously collaborated on an initial version of Pulling Back the Curtain and have continued to expand and develop the production. As PBC Nation, they have collaborated to choreograph two pieces at the beginning and end of the show. These bookends explore self-awareness and showcase individuality within a collective. The pieces were built first from conversation, which then went through stages of improvisation, setting movement material, and revising. Curator Gabriel Blackburn shared, “This came so easily because we all felt comfortable listening and speaking. When one person had the flood everyone respected that and was fully engaged.” Through each of the pieces in Pulling Back the Curtain: Remastered, as well as the additional community events and intentional talkbacks, PBC Nation creates a space for artists freedom of expression, inspires conversations, and engages a diverse audience.

Other shows in the AMPLIFY series are: A Cripple’s Dance Oct 18-20, Hit The Wall November 14-17 and Ancestral Origins: An Afrofuturist’s Exploration of Joy and Beauty.  AMPLIFY was created to give voice and platform to underrepresented stories.  Through movement, music, and narrative, AMPLIFY artists will use their art to share stories that represent the many voices that make up a community. “Art is a powerful way to connect,” says Acting Executive Director Janette Davis. “Our hope is that these performances will spark important conversations, open up minds, and share perspectives.”

This inaugural year of the AMPLIFY series will feature four stories from African American, disability, and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Out of the Box Opera Announces Oct 26 Diva Cage Match at Minneapolis Cider Company

DOUBLE THE SINGERS, DOUBLE THE FUN!

Annual Diva Cage Match features Tag Team Duets

Saturday, October 26 at 7pm

  

Out of the Box Opera is upping the ante with this year’s Diva Cage Match on Saturday, October 26 at 7pm. The Sing-Off of the Century returns for its third year with a new edition: Tag Team Duets! Six pairs of opera singers will face off in two rounds, with three celebrity judges ultimately crowning one twosome the final champions! The event moves to a different dramatic location: Minneapolis Cider Company, 701 SE 9th Street in Minneapolis’ Marcy-Holmes Neighborhood.

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In Round 1, two couples from each category (Emerging Artists, Pros, Masters) will compete. The judges choose their three favorite duets who will then move onto Round 2.  Round 2 will feature virtuosic singing and theatrics, and ultimately, only one couple  will be named Diva Cage Match Tag Team Champions! An Audience Favorite will also be selected.

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The competing couples include Emerging Artists Lisa Rogali and Mia Athey vs. Sarah Coit and Stephen Carroll; Pros Karin Wolverton and Christina Christensen vs. Alissa Anderson and Kyle Albertson; and Masters Dennis Peterson and Andrew Wilkowske vs. Jill Gardner and Jake Gardner.

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Dessa, who was a judge at the original Cage Match, rejoins the judges panel, along with Michael Christie, Minnesota Opera’s former music director, and Jevetta Steele, legendary Twin Cities gospel and R&B singer. Bryon Wilson will accompany the singers and Out of the Box’s Artistic Director David Lefkowich again serves as MC.

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Tag Team Duets will also feature pre-show and half-time entertainment at Minneapolis Cider Company’s taproom, which has a modern industrial vibe and boasts a 10-ton overhead crane. David O’Neill, the cidery’s co-founder, says, “We are so excited to partner with Out of The Box to host this year's Diva Cage Match. We love how this event presents opera in a different way, bringing new folks into an area of arts and entertainment they might not have experienced before. This idea pairs extremely well with our cider - as we challenge people’s perceptions and introduce new styles. Bringing these two concepts together in the same space is going to be a blast!”

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Tickets are $70 (ringside premium seats) and $40 general admission. Standing room only tickets will be available for $20 on the day of the show. Tickets are available at outoftheboxopera.com 

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ABOUT OUT OF THE BOX OPERA

Out of the Box Opera upends the expectation of what opera is and what it can be. Its vision takes opera out of its traditional settings - literally "out of the box" - and into extraordinary locations to create exceptional, affordable entertainment for all. In addition to Diva Cage Match, past productions have included “Fusion” events at the Weisman Art Museum where opera has been combined with other musical genres, including Jazz and Gospel. In May 2019, Out of the Box presented its immersive, site specific mini-epic, The Amazing Adventures of Acis and Galatea The Wonder Nymph, at the historic Pillsbury A Mill on the Minneapolis riverfront.

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ABOUT MINNEAPOLIS CIDER COMPANY

Minneapolis Cider Company has two distinct start-up backgrounds, brought together to build a cidery and taproom in Minneapolis. David O'Neill and Jason Dayton started a cider company (Lionheart Cider) as part of an entrepreneurial class project at the University of Minnesota and eventually started planning their own facility. Rob Fisk, who was formerly the orchardist and cidermaker at two orchards in southern Minnesota,  joined the team as the head cidermaker. Minneapolis Cider recently opened their taproom doors in May, with the mission to inspire curiosity and foster a passion for what craft cider brings to the table.

Minneapolis St. Paul Film Society Announces 2019 Arab Film Fest

MIZNA'S 2019 TWIN CITIES ARAB FILM FESTIVAL

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Mizna will present the 14th Twin Cities Arab Film Festival September 26-29, 2019 at St. Anthony Main Theatre (on the MSP Film Society's Screen 3). Included will be more than thirty contemporary films from Palestine, Egypt, Lebanon, Qatar, Syria, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as those from local Arab filmmakers.

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Mizna recently announced the full schedule, and this year features an exciting lineup which includes the latest from Elia Suleiman, a spotlight on Sudan, a Tunisian horror film, local shorts, and visiting filmmakers.  Individual tickets, ticket packs and all-access passes are now available. View the full lineup and purchase tickets.

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It Must Be Heaven

This year's opening film is It Must Be Heaven, award-winning director Elia Suleiman's comic saga exploring identity, nationality, and belonging. Playing himself, Elia Suleiman escapes from Palestine seeking an alternative homeland, only to find that Palestine is trailing behind him. Having received a Jury’s Special Mention Award at Cannes in June, this is one of its first screenings in North America. The film will screen again during the fest on 9/28. 

Join us for afterward for the opening party, featuring music by local Somali American DJ, Deka. Suggested donation of $10, RSVP HERE.

9/27 at 7pm: Western Arabs | Denmark / Netherlands + Visiting filmmaker

Filmmaker Omar Shargawi wants to understand his Palestinian father Munir better. Although Munir has lived in Denmark for years, he hasn't settled in this society. Shot over a period of twelve years, the film examines Omar's relationship with his father and the latter's influence on his son's identity.

The filmmaker will be in attendance for a post-film discussion. More Info.

9/27 at 9:15pm: Dreamaway + Manivelle | Egypt + Lebanon

Dreamaway follows a group of young workers in a luxury hotel compound, holding onto the town despite the lack of tourists. They lead a double life in the shadow of the shimmering hotel facades, as their families are unaware of the temptations of Sharm El-Sheikh. With no tourists, they are left in a vacuum, lacking opportunities and leading them to an existential quest for their identity. Manivelle, a short Lebanese mockumentary will screen before the feature length. More Info.

9/28 at 11am: Sudanese Shorts (Sudanese Film Group) | Sudan

In the seventies and eighties, a group of filmmakers issued a periodical named CINEMA and went on to found the Sudanese Film Group to seek more independence from the state and to maintain a Sudanese passion for cinema. Mizna will screen a selection of these films by Eltayeb Mahdi, Suliman Elnour, and Ibrahim Shaddad. More Info.

9/28 at 9:30pm: Dachra | Tunisia

Dachra, a contemporary Tunisian horror film, revolves around Yasmin, a journalism student, and her two classmates. They set out on a university assignment to solve the cold case of Mongia, a woman found mutilated twenty-five years ago, suspected of witchcraft. As they pursue their investigation, the three friends stumble into the archaic and ominous world of Dachra, an isolated countryside site filled with goats, silent women, mysterious drying meat, and steaming pots. More Info.

9/28 at 4 pm: Local(ish) Shorts | Midwest + Visiting Filmmakers

In this segment, we showcase films by and about Arab American artists and filmmakers who use cinema to tell their unique stories and to expand definitions of what it means to be visible while living in diaspora. These 5 short films challenge our ideas about cinematic narratives while expanding the frame of our local community. More Info.

9/29 at 7:30 pm: EXT. Night | Egypt                                                 

EXT. Night tackles class and gender disparities among three unlikely companions over the course of an evening, by exploring and exposing their Cairo with a rawness and grit unusual to both Egyptian films and “festival films.” This closing night film is the newest from Egyptian filmmaker Ahmad Abdulla. More info.  

19th Annual Autumn Brew Review Festival at Boom Island Announced

Brewers from across Minnesota will gather for one of the largest and oldest annual celebrations of craft beer in the state.

On October 19, 2019 craft beer fans can celebrate autumn with unlimited samples of Minnesota-made beer from more than 100 Minnesota breweries. Attendees of this evening festival can expect special seasonal releases and classic favorites, non-alcoholic and gluten free options, food trucks, music, activities and games, and a bonfires tended by the Minneapolis Fire Department. 

Autumn Brew Review, in its 19th year, is one of the state’s oldest beer festivals and will draw thousands of attendees to Boom Island Park. It is the third and final Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild festival of the year. Like other MNCBG festivals, ABR exclusively showcases the talent of Minnesota breweries, offers beer-education activities from leaders in the industry, and features games and activities created and lead by the breweries themselves. 

Regular tickets are $50, sober-driver tickets are $15, and VIP early-access tickets are available to members of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild MNthusiast program. Tickets, event details, participating breweries, and MNthusiast membership information can be found online at www.bit.ly/AutumnBrewReview.

About The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild

The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 2000 and is made up of more than 140 Minnesota brewery members. The Guild showcases the talent of Minnesota’s craft brewers and promotes Minnesota’s booming brewing industry by sponsoring festivals and special events including: Winterfest, MN Brewers Cup, All Pints North, and the State Fair’s Brewed in Minnesota exhibit. The Guild’s goals are to promote Minnesota breweries, create an open line of communication between brewers, and connect Minnesota beer to the consumer. 

August by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

Art Pop! Block Party: Live Music, Local Vendors, & Community Celebration

The ART POP! Block Party is a full-day event for all ages celebrating the dynamic artists, creatives, and small business owners living, working, and thriving in one of Minneapolis’s most historic neighborhoods, Elliot Park. ​​ART POP! Block Party ​will feature music and live painting, food trucks and brews, local vendors in a pop-up art market, and interactive activities from one end of the block to the other. 

This year neighboring independent businesses located on South 10th Street came together to create the Elliot Park Arts Quarter​ (EPAQ). In partnership with the ​Elliot Park Neighborhood (EPNI)​, EPAQ was awarded funding by the Great Streets Business District Support Program. With that funding, EPAQ is proud to host the inaugural ​ART POP! Block Party​ on Saturday, September 21st, 2019 from noon - 6pm. For the first time ever, the intersection of 10th Street & Centennial Place will be filled with music, dancing, food, and a live-art showcase reflective of the diverse and growing Elliot Park community.

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Key Event Features & Partners:

● Live Music & Performances​ by Sarah White, Al Church, 26 Bats, Craig Clark Band, Somali Museum Dance Troupe, and Mickey Breeze.

● Live Art ​by Anton Horishnyk and Kristi Abbott

● Interactive Art Displays​ by Mary Jane ​Mansfield, Celina Kane, and the Colab Creation Station by Gamut Gallery

● Historical Art Walk Tours​ by the playful members of the Theater of Public Policy

● Pop-up Art Market​ with local artists vendors Astralchemy, Va Va Voom Studio, Thraxis Threads, Paradox Coalition, ​Vimage Photography, Nelson Cain, Nice Nice Ceramics, Matt Hintz Art ​ and more!

● Wow Metal Lab​ ​and Show​,​ ​a traveling sculpture foundry and exhibition space in a converted metro transit city bus

● Beer Garden​ hosted by ​FINNEGANS Brewery​ and Erik the Red benefitting FINNEGANS Community Fund-- ​donating 100% of its profits to hunger relief charities

● Food Trucks ​Chicks on Wheels, Electric Noodle, Icy Icy Baby, Sara’s Tipsy Pies​ ​and featured eats by local diner ​Band Box Diner ​- v​oted Best Diner by City Pages, 2013.

Minneapolis Park Officials Seek Proposed Tax Levy That Focuses on Youth Investment

Via a September 5 e-newsletter from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

The funds, if approved by the Board of Estimate and Taxation, would come from the city levy and would impact the property tax owed on a median valued house of $266,000 approximately an additional $6 annually. 

At its Sept. 4 meeting, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) commissioners passed a resolution seeking a 2020 property tax levy that invests in the city’s youth.

“The Park Board and the City of Minneapolis have a responsibility to invest in, and serve, youth in ways that make a substantial difference today and for generations to come,” said Al Bangoura, Superintendent for MPRB. “We have the solutions and places to enrich the lives of Minneapolis youth, and we will continue to work with the mayor and city council members towards making that happen.”

In response to funding levels not keeping pace with current needs, the MPRB is proposing $1.3 million for expanded youth services, including increasing youth employment and developing four ideation tech labs in recreation centers. The funds, if approved by the Board of Estimate and Taxation, would come from the city levy and would impact the property tax owed on a median valued house of $266,000 approximately an additional $6 annually.  

Currently, the MPRB receives seven cents on every dollar in property tax paid by Minneapolis homeowners. The additional funding being sought would result in an 8.06 percent increase in Park Board property taxes, which is a 1.52 percent increase on total City of Minneapolis property taxes, or approximately $24, which includes the $6 for expanded youth services, per homeowner of a median valued house.

“Superintendent Bangoura has outlined a bold vision for a Minneapolis youth agenda. This means investing in programs that help young people grow into healthy, happy, productive adults. I hope in the days ahead, the Mayor, City Council, Board of Estimate and Taxation and the Park Board will take actions that reflect our shared commitment to the youth of the city,” said Brad Bourn, President of the Park Board of Commissioners.

According to Bangoura, the MPRB is strategically positioned to offer high quality youth employment programs which provide unique and lifelong skill building opportunities.  Additional funding will allow the MPRB to expand critical employment programs in the City of Minneapolis, including Teen Teamworks, Conservation Corps crews, Urban Scholars, Youth Design Team and new trades apprenticeships. 

“For us, youth employment is not just about the job,” explained Bangoura. “We provide work readiness training, career pathway exploration, and a foundation for education and career planning for successful futures.”

Bangoura also envisions ideation spaces that will teach digital literacy, engage youth with a variety of technologies, and support youth in developing the high demand skills and abilities wanted by employers.

“With appropriate resources, the MPRB can provide youth exposure to professions they did not know existed, spark vocational interests, and help set forth a clear and potentially a more cost-effective pathway for attaining career goals,” explained Bangoura. 

The MPRB’s commitment to youth services is supported by knowledge of community needs gained through extensive community engagement and prior citywide survey results indicating high public support for youth services. Staff shared the Closing the Gap: Investing in Youth report at the Sept. 4 Board meeting. The report states that almost 20 percent of the Minneapolis population is children and youth under age 18, and that almost 30 percent of those youth are experiencing poverty. The report shows how current resources fall short in meeting service levels by approximately $2 million annually for youth.