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Greeting Mill City Commons Members & Friends,
This week many of our members embarked on the highly anticipated, life-changing MCC-exclusive Civil Rights Tour in the heart of Georgia. With the collaboration and partnership of Road Scholar, members will follow in the footsteps of the venerable Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legendary marches, and hear the moving story of Rosa Parks and the Montgomery bus boycott. They'll walk across the Selma Bridge with an activist who took part in the peaceful protest that devolved into unforgivable violence known as “Bloody Sunday" and so much more.
Beyond the historical significance, this exclusive tour is also an opportunity for MCC members to foster connections with others that share a passion for learning and exploring. It's time to share thoughts, reflections, and emotions as they navigate this profound and transformative experience together.
This opportunity to learn and connect is only one of the many benefits that MCC members enjoy. Sound interesting? Captivating? Join us! Come on, you won't be disappointed in what you will discover.
Be Kind. Stay Curious.
Margaret McDonald, Executive Director
(612) 455-3329, 1201 W River Pkwy, Suite 217C, Minneapolis, MN 55454
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Welcome MCC's Newest Members! | |
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Please join us in welcoming our newest members:
Cec Riedman and Steve Long
To reach out to new members, you can go to the Member Directory and search by first or last name.
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Our Upcoming Programs and Events | |
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Dining Around the Neighborhood: EaTo
Tuesday, April 30, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
305 S Washington Ave
Join us as we embark on a once-a-month culinary experience at different restaurants around the city, and around our neighborhood. This month, we will enjoy a Dutch-treat dinner at EaTo.
This event is limited to 12 people.
Parking is available on a surface lot behind EaTo, across the street at the Depot or at Gateway Parking Ramp a block down, where you can take the skyway (down the elevator and a short walk to their Bottle Shop door). EaTo covers up to $10 with a validation ticket from the Gateway Parking Ramp on Washington and 4th Avenue.
MCC members sign up here.
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Rendezvous Readers' Book Chat
Wednesday, May 1, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Klassic's Kitchen, 428 S 2nd St
Join us to discuss this month's book, Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story that Awakened America, by Joy-Ann Reid. You are welcome to join us in conversation whether or not you've read the book.
If you'd like to read ahead, June's book is 100 Years of Solitude, by Gabriel Garcia Márquez.
Have a book suggestion for the Book Chat? Email Marsha Blumenthal.
No registration required.
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Men's Breakfast
Thursday, May 2, 8:00 - 9:00 am
Elsie's Restaurant, 729 Marshall St NE
It's caffeine and camaraderie for members of MCC and guests! This group meets every other Thursday and is hosted by various members who get the conversation going. Please register by the Monday prior to Coffee and Conversation.
In this upcoming election year, immigration is a central issue. At a February Men's breakfast, MCC member Mark Joffe provided a brief overview of current immigration issues, but didn't discuss the underlying repressive and violent regimes that place such a demand on our immigration system. Why are so many people compelled to leave their home and seek asylum in the US, and where are they coming from?
Barbara Frey, JD, will be our program speaker. She is an international human rights scholar, and activist. She directed the human rights program at the University of Minnesota from 2001 to 2022; and is widely known as an expert and activist in human rights issues in Minnesota, the nation, and the world. She will talk about human rights in general but especially the exceptional reach of local activism in Minnesota. MCC member Roger Hale is our sponsor for this talk.
MCC members sign up here.
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Birding Walk
Friday, May 3, 8:00 - 9:30 am
Roberts Bird Sanctuary, 4124 Roseway Rd
Join us for this fun birding walk at Roberts Bird Sanctuary with naturalist and bird expert Gregg Severson. We recommend that participants bring their own binoculars and field guides, if you have them. Participant fee: $6.00. Meet at the parking lot at the east end, near the Peace Garden and Rose Garden.
MCC members sign up here.
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Morning Mixer
Saturdays, May 4 and 11, 9:00 - 10:30 am
Elsie's Restaurant, 729 Marshall St NE
Get to know other MCC members at a casual Saturday morning breakfast mixer at Elsie’s Restaurant. Hot coffee awaits you when you arrive on foot or by bike or by car - order a full breakfast or simply a beverage. Open seating at tables set for 4 or 5 - great for conversation with friends, old and new. To help the restaurant prepare, please register.
NOTE: Breakfasts are outside as long as the temperature is at least 50 degrees. If bad weather, Elsie’s has a secluded indoor space available in the main dining room. This event is limited to 35 to accommodate Elsie's staff.
MCC members sign up here for May 4 and here for May 11; guests email MCC.
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Joyfully Dancing 55+
Monday, May 6, 9:30 - 10:30 am
Tapestry Folkdance Center, 3748 Minnehaha Ave
Are you looking for a new activity to try out? Tapestry Folkdance offers a gentle movement class called “Joyfully Dancing 55+.”
The class is described as “a dance experience that celebrates many genres of dance and music: American, swing, popular, and international, to name a few.” Dances are taught/reviewed every session. As the name suggests, participants feel a lot of joy (and get some exercise too) while dancing together! No partner is needed, and all levels of ability are welcome.
Cost is $5, payable to the instructor. Participants are asked to bring a pair of inside shoes (in order to keep grit, salt and water off the dance floor). Dancing with just socks is also OK.
If you’d like to carpool, please be at the ARC parking lot ready to leave at 9:10 AM.
"Joyfully dancing instructor Robin is welcoming and says not to worry about following steps exactly. She introduces the music and dance steps which makes the hour friendly, fun, and folksy!" - Peggy R.
"This was my first dance class ever and the instructor made it easy to follow (even with my two left feet). I enjoyed being physically active in a fun way, without having to be too serious about it." - Carol H.
MCC members sign up here.
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Why Can't Our Kids Read?
Monday, May 6, 4:30 - 6:00 pm
Phoenix on the River, 222 2nd St SE
One half of our kids cannot read. That statistic says it all. We face a reading crisis in Minnesota. Everyone can learn to read - but they must be taught. What we have been doing doesn't work. Last year for the very first time the state decided that in Minnesota we will use what we have learned from science based research to teach our kids. This program will explore - how did things get so bad, what have we learned from the science of reading, what did the state do, how will things change, how long will it take, what can we expect, and how can we help? We will be joined by two of our state's most passionate leaders when it comes to reading. Bobbie Burnham is Minnesota's Assistant Commissioner of Education for Teaching and Learning and Kim Gibbons is Director of the Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement University of Minnesota.
The Phoenix requires that attendees be registered in advance, so please make sure you register. Walk-ins are not allowed for this program. Registration closes at 12:00 pm on May 6.
The entrance is at the corner of 2nd Street SE and 3rd Avenue SE. Parking is readily available on the street or in the nearby ramp at 2nd Street SE and 2nd Avenue SE.
There will be a short social hour with wine and snack at 4:00 pm, with the program starting promptly at 4:30 pm.
MCC members sign up here.
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The State of the Hospitality Industry: Has It Recovered?
Thursday, May 9, 3:00 - 4:00 pm
MCC office, 1201 W River Pkwy, 2nd fl
Minneapolis and the world shut down in 2020. After four years, has the city made a comeback? Are people traveling to Minneapolis for business or pleasure? Join us as we hear from Bill Deef, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at Meet Minneapolis. He will talk about what the city is doing to bring in more tourists and conventions.
MCC members sign up here.
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Let's Play Mah Jongg!
Friday, May 10, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
MCC office, 1201 W River Pkwy, 2nd fl
Join us for a fun morning of mixed Mah Jongg. Meet new members, guests and fellow Mah Jongg enthusiasts. All levels welcome from beginners to experienced. You will need to have, or have on order, a 2024 NMJL card (available for about $15 online at https://www.nationalmahjonggleague.org/ or from local retailers, such as Walmart). Sign up early, and bring a guest. Have fun and learn as we go, playing at tables of 3.
This event is limited to 15 participants. Registration closes at Noon on April 25.
Beginners should prepare by learning to recognize the tiles by name: Winds (North, South, East, West), Dragons (Green, Red and Soap), Flowers, Suits (Bams, Craks, Dots), Jokers. In addition, beginners might prepare by viewing a Mah Jongg primer on YouTube, or reading a book such as A Beginner's Guide to American Mah Jongg to begin to understand the goal: completed combinations listed on the 2024 Mah Jongg Card.
Please reach out to Keith Nelson for further information or questions: k.d.nelson@outlook.com, or (612) 750-4605.
MCC members sign up here.
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Met Opera Live: Madama Butterfly
Saturday, May 11, 11:55 am - 3:25 pm
Showplace ICON Theater at the West End, 1625 West End Blvd, St. Louis Park
Join our MCC Opera Friends at the at Met Live in HD performance of "Madama Butterfly." Following the performance, let’s walk a half block to CRAVE restaurant for conversation and refreshments. There is free covered parking next to the theater.
To learn more about Madama Butterfly, click HERE.
Did you know that the performance is telecasted live to more than 2000 cinemas in over 50 countries? It is kind of a thrill to realize that we are enjoying the same fabulous performances at the same time as thousands of people all over the Earth!!
Of particular enjoyment are the back stage interviews with the performers, directors, costume and set designers and others before the opera begins and during intermissions. It is very up close and personal. To pre-purchase your tickets, click here.
MCC members sign up here.
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Nosy Neighbor Tour: Minneapolis Water Treatment Facility
Monday, May 13, 10:00 - 11:30 am
Minneapolis Water Treatment Facility, 4300 Marshall St NE, Fridley
How DO we get our water each day? Did you know that the City of Minneapolis Water Treatment Facility delivers 57 million gallons of water a day to customers in Minneapolis and surrounding suburbs? Or that this facility is 150 years old, and is the oldest treatment facility on the Mississippi? Join us as we tour the Minneapolis Water Treatment Facility and learn how they bring water from the Mississippi River to your tap.
MCC members sign up here.
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A Conversation with Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara: One Year Later
Tuesday, May 14, 4:00 - 5:30 pm
MCC office, 1201 W River Pkwy, 1st fl
In January 2023 Minneapolis Police Chief O'Hara spoke to Mill City Commons members. He will take this opportunity to update us on the progress MPD has made in the last year, as well as the continuing and upcoming challenges he sees for MPD in 2024 and 2025.
MCC members sign up here.
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Take Me Out to the Ballgame!
Thursday, June 20, 12:00 - 3:00 pm
Target Field, 1 Twins Way
Take me out to the ballgame! Join MCC member Will Craig for fun in the sun as the Minnesota Twins take on the Tampa Bay Rays at this matinee home game.
Will has purchased 20 tickets to the game. Our seats are in the upper deck behind Home Plate: section 319, rows 2 and 3. Tickets are $20 per person, payable to Will Craig.
Tickets are electronic now. You will need MLB's Ballpark App on your phone to receive and use tickets at the park. Get the app from either the Apple Store for iPhones or Google Store for Android phones.
You must register yourself and any guest you are bringing to let us know that you're attending. After you've registered on our website, set up your MLB account, then contact Will to purchase the tickets directly from him, and he will transfer your tickets to your phone. You can reach Will at wcraig@umn.edu. When you email Will, make sure that you put "MN Twins" in the subject line.
MCC members sign up here.
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The Depot Dutch Treat Social Hour
Mondays, The Depot, 4:30-5:30 pm
Drop in for an afternoon coffee or drink and a casual chat. Note: Contact the MCC office if you plan to attend for the first time.
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Aster Cafe's Patio Dutch Treat Social Hour
Tuesdays, Aster Cafe Patio, 4:30-5:30 pm
Drop in for an afternoon coffee or drink and a casual chat. Note: Contact the MCC office if you plan to attend for the first time.
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Wednesday Morning Coffee
Wednesdays,
9:00-10:00 am
Drop in and join your friends and neighbors for a morning chat at C.R.E.A.M Cafe
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Men's Dutch Lunch
Every other Thursday,
Klassic's Kitchen,
12:00-1:00 pm
This casual gathering alternates weeks with the Men's Breakfast. Register here.
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Play Readers
Specific Tuesdays and Wednesdays
6:30-9:30 pm
Our 2023-24 season of six readings runs September-May. If you'd like to join the Play Readers or be added to the sub list, please email Mary Texidor.
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River Walkers
Thursdays,
9:00-10:00 am
Riverside of Owamni Restaurant
All levels of walkers are welcome for this early morning walk along the banks of the Mississippi River.
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MCC Community Care Resources | |
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MCC Caregivers' Support Group
2nd and 4th Wednesdays,
May - December, 10:30-12:00 pm
A way to support members and non-members who are in a caregiving role. Contact the MCC office to learn more about future openings in the group.
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Member-to-Member Volunteering
If you want to support other members, you can sign up to become a volunteer driver or member-to-member volunteer.
If you are in need of volunteer services, let us know. Mary Texidor can help arrange a ride, meals, grocery shopping, visits and more.
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Medical Equipment Loan Program
If you have a medical need, we may have the equipment you are looking for. Consider contacting the office before you buy or rent a piece of equipment. We have a shower chair, raised toilet seat, cane, bed assist rail, wheelchair, grabber and walker available.
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First Stop Guide
MCC's First Stop Guide has invaluable member-recommended service providers. If you're looking for a dentist, tech support, a personal trainer, healthcare provider or more, you can find it here.
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News From and For Members | |
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MCC members Diane and Tony Hofstede invite members to attend this year's Minnesota Orchestra Symphony Ball on May 4. The event supports the Orchestra’s artistic and educational missions. Come experience an exquisite river-themed concert of glorious orchestral classics performed by the Minnesota Orchestra, conducted by new Music Director Thomas Søndergård. Cap off the night at the festive after-party at Orchestra Hall with desserts, savory bites and signature cocktails and dance the night away with a set list curated by Twin Cities’ Jack Brass Band. It's a river soiree! Tickets can be purchased here.
MCC member Ghita Worcester invites members to LaRive on May 9th for a reception and program hosted by the La Rive Great Conversations Lecture Series. Due to the importance and alignment with the MCC Vital Aging programming, they have made this program available to all Mill City Commons members. Iris Freeman, the Founder of the Minnesota Elder Justice Center will speak about "Family Secrets and Stranger Scams; Lifting the Curtain on Elder Abuse". The goal of the Minnesota Elder Justice Center is "to prevent and alleviate abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of elders and vulnerable adults. Iris's saw firsthand the need for a center focusing on elder justice through her work starting with her Graduate School SW Field Placements with Regions Hospital and the Minnesota Department of Health and moving into her career in Long Term Care with a focus on system issues and changes in legislation required to create a safe and equitable system of care for Minnesotans as we age. Iris's presentation will share the political and practical background on elder abuse and available services in Minnesota along with giving us facts and resources about the current environment. Iris is a respected national speaker on this topic and you will leave her session better equipped to handle issues you may see or experience and well has having knowledge of local resources. The reception begins at 6:30 pm with drinks and appetizers and an opportunity to meet Iris; the presentation will be from 7:30-8:30 pm at LaRive Condominiums, 110 Bank Street SE. Limited guest parking in building and ample on-street metered parking available.
Visit MCC member Jim Conaway and check out his art at the Traffic Zone's Annual Open Studios event on May 11 from 5:30-9:00 pm. Jim's studio is on the 2nd floor at 250 3rd Ave N.
Upcoming MCC meetings:
- Membership Committee, May 13
- Board Meeting, May 15
- Program Committee, May 21
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Touching Two Worlds: Integration
May 4, 4 pm and 7 pm, Luminary Arts Center, 700 First St N
What secrets lie beneath the surface of your everyday self? Written by a psychologist to illustrate the beauty and diversity of our inner worlds through movement, this 90-minute spectacle offers a unique exploration of the human experience. A cast of artists and acrobats will mesmerize you with their flexible contortion acts, daring trapeze and fluid ballet on fabrics. Each performance is a testament to the human body's extraordinary capabilities and the limitless creativity of the human spirit. You’re invited to a transformative experience that will touch your heart and awaken your senses. For information and tickets, click here.
North Loop Art Walk
May 11, 6:00-9:00 pm, Form + Content Gallery, 210 Second St N
Presented as part of What Fierce Looks Like exhibit. Free and open to the public. For information, click here.
How to Avoid Burnout in 73 Minutes: A Minimally Invasive Musical Procedure
May 16-19, Southern Theater, 1420 Washington Ave S
Stuart Bloom is a popular cancer doctor, but he’s having a dark night of the soul. Has he succumbed to burnout? Is his career finished? Tonight he’ll find the answers – with the help of a journal full of songs and a strange visitor who knows his thoughts. For information and tickets, click here.
Mill City Times is a local website devoted specifically to our neighborhood and a place to go to find out what's happening, whether it's a new restaurant opening, a local event, proposed construction, volunteer opportunities and more.
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