Southwest Journal Nov. 12-25

Robberies, gun violence in Southwest PAGE A5 • Lisa Bender not running for reelection PAGE A7

Vol. 31, No. 23 November 12–25, 2020 southwestjournal.com

INSIDE PETITE LEÓN

Minneapolis votes big for Biden Southwest residents digest election results with mix of relief, concern

Takeout service is king at Jorge Guzmán’s new spot A3

Local book club has read a biography of each American president A6

SUNKEN MINIVAN

VOICES FROM THE PANDEMIC

County, state still have millions in emergency housing cash during eviction moratorium

By Michelle Bruch

EVERY PRESIDENT

Vehicle struck a jogger before plunging into Lake Harriet A7

Month-to-month moratorium

Residents banged pots and waved flags at 40th & Nicollet Saturday afternoon after the TV networks called the presidential election for Joe Biden. Photo by Isaiah Rustad

By Michelle Bruch

Casting ballots in record numbers, Minneapolis sent former Vice President Joe Biden to the White House and a slate of blue candidates to the state Capitol.

Biden took a larger share of Southwest Minneapolis votes than Hillary Clinton did in 2016, earning about 4-7 additional percentage points in Southwest wards.

About 1 in 10 Southwest voters stuck by President Donald Trump — roughly the same support he received in 2016.

Voters spent five days watching absentee ballot tallies trickle in across the country.

“I’m scared to go home and turn on the TV,” said Becky Dankowski, who spent election night demonstrating in remembrance of George Floyd on the 38th Street bridge.

SEE ELECTION / PAGE A14

Asad Aliweyd said his phone rings 300 to 400 times per day at the New American Development Center on Eat Street, as the organization helps administer millions of dollars in state and county emergency housing payments.

“First of all, your landlord cannot evict you,” Aliweyd told one caller in October. “We will send an email to them this afternoon. We will tell them your application has been approved.”

Renters can’t be evicted for nonpayment through at least Dec. 31 under an order from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and an executive order up for renewal every 30 days from Gov. Tim Walz. But the rent is still due.

Among surveyed Minnesota renters, 83.1% are current on payments and 12.7% are behind, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey taken Oct. 14-26.

“To me, it’s a real tragedy that there are a lot of these rent assistance programs that are out there that are going unspent,” said Luke Grundman, managing attorney at MidMinnesota Legal Aid, speaking at an October webinar hosted by HOME Line. “That’s a lot of money that, if it could get spent, [could prevent] a zero-sum game, where … the landlord can get seven months of rent and a tenant doesn’t need to go into a homeless shelter or sleep in a car in the midst of a pandemic while infection rates are still increasing all the time.”

Emergency rent and mortgage assistance includes $100 million from the state and $21 million from Hennepin County. So far, the state has disbursed about $30 million and the county has disbursed about $5.8 million. A map shows where Hennepin County’s assistance has gone so far: More than $17,000 distributed within a two-block radius of Lake & Grand, for example, more than $18,000 near SEE RENTERS / PAGE A12

Stories from local residents A8

GREENER MALL

No DFL ties? That’s not a dealbreaker for School Board voters.

By Nate Gotlieb

Naturalized design approved for The Mall in Uptown A11

‘TIS THE SEASON

Our guide to safely shopping and making merry over the holidays B1

In electing new School Board members, Minneapolis voters bucked the trend of choosing DFL-backed candidates while also reelecting an incumbent who was firm in her support of the district’s controversial Comprehensive District Design (CDD) restructuring plan.

In District 4, which includes the neighborhoods near the Chain of Lakes and Downtown, activist and community organizer Adriana Cerrillo very narrowly defeated DFL-backed Christa Mims, a Hennepin County social worker, for the seat being vacated by Bob Walser.

Voters in District 2, which covers North Minneapolis, chose longtime community SEE SCHOOL BOARD / PAGE A12

Joyce Stone waves a sign in support of activist Adriana Cerrillo on Election Day outside Plymouth Congregational Church in Stevens Square. Cerrillo narrowly defeated Christa Mims for the vacant District 4 seat.

Photo by Zac Farber

A2 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

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By Andrew Hazzard

35TH & HENNEPIN

Beauty Lounge salon meets Uptown’s diverse needs A former Northeast Minneapolis salon has found a new home in Uptown.

The Beauty Lounge salon, which opened in Northeast in 2011, moved to the former home of Wave Salon at 35th & Hennepin in early 2020.

Owner and stylist Melissa Taylor said she was drawn to the Uptown location by its larger size and prominent storefront.

The additional space was initially desired because business was booming, but when COVID-19 hit in March The Beauty Lounge was tasked with growing its clientele at the new location amid a pandemic that saw mandated statewide closures of salons.

“It’s forced us to be very creative on how we can continue to grow through this,” Taylor said.

When clients started returning to the salon in May, the stylists at The Beauty Lounge had their work cut out for them.

“We saw plenty of terrible and strange things,” Taylor recalled with a laugh.

Like other salons, The Beauty Lounge is operating at 50% capacity and has seen most of its clients return, though Taylor said some people remain apprehensive. Typically, the holiday season between Thanksgiving and the New Year is the busiest time of the year for salons, with people aiming to look their best for gatherings.

“This year, I’m not sure what’s going to happen,” Taylor said.

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The Beauty Lounge Salon at 35th & Hennepin serves clients with a wide range of hair textures and styles. Photo by Andrew Hazzard

The Beauty Lounge mostly serves female clients, Taylor said, but is known for cutting all hair textures and types. The staff is racially diverse and has the experience to handle a wide range of clients. Many multiracial families have become clients, Taylor said, and have told staff that The Beauty Lounge is the only salon that works for the whole family.

The salon specializes in bringing out the most in people’s natural hair and even offers a “texture academy” class for fellow professionals.

“I think people have gotten more comfortable with their natural hair texture and color,” she said.

The Beauty Lounge has no relationship with the boutique of the same name that opened in October a half mile to the east at 36th & Bryant.

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KINGFIELD

Petite León opens as takeout destination When chef Jorge Guzmán began planning the menu for Petite León, the new restaurant at 38th & Nicollet, he envisioned it as a comfortable place for people to hang out and enjoy some seriously good food.

But when the restaurant opened Oct. 23 among a spike in cases of COVID-19, it did so with a deep focus on takeout service.

“The current circumstances of the world around us have caused us to adapt, but our passion for our restaurant has never waned,” Guzmán said in a release. “We are full of tenacity, grit and a sense of hopefulness.”

Guzmán, known locally for leading Surly’s Brewer’s Table, has tweaked the planned menu to focus on portable, reheatable dishes influenced by flavors of the United States, his native Mexico, Spain and France. The menu includes red chile pozole, roasted beets, lamb meatballs and a French-inspired “le petite cheeseburger.”

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At Petite León, Guzmán has partnered with beverage specialist Travis Serbus, who will for now hold off on his cocktail menu to focus on beer and wine pairings for takeout.

The kitchen is also playing host to a pop-up concept called Pollo Pollo, which will focus on family-style pollo al carbon, or charcoalroasted rotisserie chicken.

Starting in December, Petite León plans to host a series of small dinner parties available by reservation only where customers can try a wide range of the restaurant’s menu in a socially distanced setting.

For now, the restaurant is open for takeout from 4:30-9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, with orders accepted online.

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A4 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

LINDEN HILLS

House of Music downsizing to one location House of Music will keep its original Linden Hills location shuttered for the foreseeable future and operate out of its Fulton facility for the remainder of the pandemic.

Owner Brad McLemore announced the Southwest music school would consolidate into a single location in October. The decision was made because most students are taking lessons online and there’s more room to spread out at 50th & Washburn than the Linden Hills studio.

House of Music will keep both locations for now.

“Our teachers and students have done an incredible job of adjusting to the challenges that come with teaching online and the restrictions that come with in-person lessons due to COVID-19,” McLemore said. “We all look forward to making music together and sharing it with audiences in our community when we are able.”

House of Music opened in Linden Hills in 2005 as a music school in a small office above Great Harvest and has since grown into a robust

House of Music will consolidate its two Southwest locations into the branch at 50th & Washburn. The music school has reduced in-person lessons during the pandemic.

Photo by Andrew Hazzard

operation offering private instruction, summer camps, workshops and more.

House of Music Where: 4948 Washburn Ave. S. Info: lhhouseofmusic.com

LONGFELLOW

Nonprofit takes over Peace Coffee space

Jill Hagen Client Focused Results Driven

A nonprofit coffee company that got its start employing unsheltered youth in Southwest Minneapolis farmers markets has finally found a permanent home in Peace Coffee’s cafe space in Longfellow.

Wildflyer Coffee, a Minneapolis nonprofit organization that seeks to provide job and life skills training to youth experiencing homelessness in the Twin Cities, will be taking over the Peace Coffee cafe at 33rd & Minnehaha in December, according to a press release.

“We are beyond excited about this momentous step for Wildflyer Coffee, to not only grow our capacity and employ triple the number of young people than ever before, but to do so in a space that is already so well-loved,” said Carley Kammerer, executive director of Wildflyer Coffee.

Peace Coffee, a Minneapolis-based roaster known for its fair-trade, organic beans and bicycle delivery model, is getting out of the retail business. It closed its Downtown cafes in March with no plans to reopen and will shift focus on the roasting and wholesale side of the business, according to the release.

Wildflyer Coffee has been pursuing a cafe to call its own since June 2019. The nonprofit, which started under the name Gutterpunk Coffee, has been operating at the Linden Hills and Fulton farmers markets in recent years but wanted its own cafe so it can employ

more unsheltered youth and give their workers more hours.

Wildflyer employs and educates its workers to help them rise out of poverty and find more stable lives. The Wildflyer program lasts nine months and focuses on developing work and life skills through hands-on employment and classroom learning. Workers are educated on the basics of the coffee industry and work in general — appropriate appearance, talking to managers and co-workers, time management, etc.

Then youth are enrolled in a personal and professional development course with weekly life skills training sessions.

With Peace Coffee seeking to ease out of retail, it partnered with Wildflyer to run the Minnehaha Avenue cafe. The company will offer training and support to Wildflyer, which will be serving Peace Coffee roasts at the cafe.

“We are honored to partner with Wildflyer to give the business a stable home and to help it pursue its mission of employing homeless youth — especially as homelessness in this very vulnerable population continues to rise during the pandemic,” said Lee Wallace, CEO of Peace Coffee.

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Nonprofit Wildflyer Coffee has operated at the Linden Hills farmers market for the past three years and has now found a permanent home at Peace Coffee’s Longfellow cafe. File photo

southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 A5

Public Safety Update

By Zac Farber

Fatal Uptown shooting spotlights robbery trend

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A young man’s death from a gunshot wound sustained during a Nov. 8 attempted robbery is Southwest Minneapolis’ worst outcome yet in a months-long pattern of carjackings and armed robberies that police call “persistent and very troubling.”

While emphasizing that African Americans, North Siders and neighborhoods east of Interstate 35W are still disproportionately impacted by violent crime, Police Chief Medaria Arradondo said violence this year “has not been relegated to a certain quadrant of our city.”

The current trend in Southwest is for robbers — mostly small groups of teens or young adults armed with knives, guns, bats or fists — to approach people on the street at all hours and target purses, cell phones and cars.

The incidents have been concentrated in the Wedge, Whittier and Stevens Square.

The Nov. 8 shooting happened around 8 p.m. near Lagoon & Fremont in Uptown. The robber opened the back door of a car occupied by the young man and another person and tried to rob them. During the course of the encounter, a shot was fired — whether the robber was the shooter is unclear — and the young man was hit. The robber fled on foot and the car was driven four blocks east, to Lake & Bryant, where police found the man in critical condition. He died several hours later at Hennepin County Medical Center. No suspect is in custody.

Robbery and violent crime rates in Southwest Minneapolis have dropped somewhat from July and August, though they are still elevated. There were a total of 121 robberies and non-domestic aggravated assaults this September and October. By comparison, there were 70 robberies and non-domestic assaults during those months of 2019. Robberies, aggravated assaults and gun violence have been on the rise in major cities across the country during the pandemic, according to a report from the National Commission on COVID-19 and Criminal Justice.

The Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) recommends residents keep safe through measures such as locking doors, staying alert and using security cameras. Police made 28 arrests for violent crimes in Southwest in September and October, up from 23 during those months of 2019. Police believe some of the robbers active in recent weeks are people they have arrested for similar crimes earlier this year but who have since been released from juvenile detention.

Due to a wave of resignations, early retirements, quarantine leave, PTSD claims and other personnel losses, the MPD is down from 867 active officers at the start of the year to 713 active officers today — 121 are currently on leave — and 911 response times have slowed. Police say the 5th Precinct is

currently staffed at around nine officers per shift, compared with nine to 12 officers per shift in 2019. (The MPD said exact 2020 staffing numbers constitute “security information” and cannot be disclosed — making it impossible to verify the year-over-year comparison.) Fifth Precinct Inspector Amelia Huffman said officers now have to work more overtime, weekends are harder to staff and there are fewer resources for investigating neighbors’ complaints about “problem properties, drug activity and street-level, low-level violence.”

Since George Floyd’s Memorial Day killing by an MPD officer, city leaders have been unanimous in their support for making longterm “transformational” changes to public safety and crime prevention.

During an October public safety meeting, criminologist David Kennedy told council members that stemming violence comes down to providing individualized solutions for a very small number of people in gangs, groups and drug crews. Kennedy praised the work of the city’s Office of Violence Prevention, which aims to prevent retaliatory cycles of violence.

“Effective violence prevention looks a lot like contact tracing,” said Kennedy, the director of John Jay College’s National Network for Safe Communities. “Between law enforcement and community insight, it’s very often possible to understand who’s driving things, who’s at high risk. What are we going to do with this particular situation to keep it from getting worse? Maybe it’s an arrest. Maybe the beef is over a $50 unpaid debt. Maybe it’s over a false rumor that needs to be addressed.”

While this approach is widely endorsed by city leaders, the role police officers should play in the short term is a question of increasingly rancorous disagreement in a year in which more than 500 people have been shot and wounded citywide.

During a Nov. 10 meeting, the City Council voted 7-6 to approve out of committee a joint enforcement agreement that will add 20 to 40 officers from Metro Transit and the Hennepin County Sheriff ’s Office through the end of the year. The council will vote again on the agreement on Nov. 13 and, if passed, the officers will likely respond to 911 calls and work in teams to combat violence.

Though the $500,000 requested for the program by the MPD is a relatively small sum, the motion rankled some council members who felt the department — which has already received over $180 million this year — had not given sufficient details about how the increased patrols would prevent further robberies and shootings or given sufficient proof that the money would be SEE PUBLIC SAFETY / PAGE A7

Man shot, killed near 22nd & Lyndale A 21-year-old man was shot and killed on Nov. 5 during a fight near 22nd & Lyndale, police say.

Police said they found the man, identified as Mohamed Khadar Hayir of Brooklyn Park, in grave condition on the ground outside a business around 3 a.m.; the parking lot of the Speedway gas station was later roped off with police tape.

Hayir was treated by paramedics and taken to Hennepin County Medical Center, where he died at 3:38 a.m. of multiple gunshot wounds.

The death is being investigated as a homicide,

and 5th Precinct Inspector Amelia Huffman has told the Lowry Hill East Neighborhood Association that witnesses have been cooperative and progress is being made in the investigation.

Police say there is evidence that Hayir knew his shooter.

Gun violence is on the rise in the 5th Precinct. There were 12 gunshot victims in Southwest Minneapolis between the beginning of July and the end of October, up from an average of five over the past decade.

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A6 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

They’ve read a biography of every American president

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Every few months for more than a decade, Lynnhurst residents Jan Emerson and Tama Pudvah have met up with Linden Hills resident Lynne Nystuen at a local restaurant to share food over a lively discussion of an American president’s biography.

Starting in 2009, the three women have chronologically read the biographies of the first 44 American presidents, averaging about four books a year. Born out of a love of history, the book club will soon discuss the biography of Barack Obama. Then they’ll most likely take a break.

“We’ve been debating, honestly, whether we can stomach Trump at this point,” Pudvah said. “I think Obama’s our last one for now.”

The book club initially included Emerson, Nystuen and Pudvah’s husbands, but the men quit after George Washington.

“One read the whole thing, one read half and then one had his phone underneath the table and was Googling things to pretend like he read the book,” Emerson said.

Emerson and Nystuen, who are sisters, have known Pudvah for more than 20 years.

In addition to reading presidential biographies, the three women participate in other book clubs and regularly attend forums hosted by the Minnesota Historical Society.

“It’s a good way to learn about the presidents and learn about trends in our country and politics,” Pudvah said.

After reading the stories of dozens of men, Emerson, Nystuen and Pudvah said this project has made clear that it is time the country had a woman president.

Nystuen said she was captivated to learn that Woodrow Wilson’s wife, Edith, practically ran the country in secret during his second term, after he suffered a severe stroke in October 1919.

“He was incapacitated for a year and a half, or something like that, and she ran the country,” she said.

Along with providing a framework for political discussions, the book club has

offered a time for thoughtful reflection on past administrations. “[During the Clinton administration], our kids were young, our heads were kind of into parenting and so much of that just kind of came and went when it was in the headlines, but I don’t know how much I was registering what was actually happening,” Pudvah said.

Reading through the pages of the country’s administrations, the book club has found much that rhymes with current events.

“Learning more about [the 2000 contested election] as we’ve gone through the books and even now, with the threat of another one — it’s just interesting to have that perspective,” Pudvah said shortly before Election Day. Issues like abolishing the Electoral College and setting term limitations for the Supreme Court have appeared before in American history, Nystuen said.

“All those things are in every book that we read and so it keeps coming up,” she said.

“There’s just certain things that always seem to bubble up to the surface during an election.”

Patterns of progress followed by reaction also repeat, Pudvah said.

“There was a lot of progress made after the Civil War, and when Abraham Lincoln was killed and Andrew Johnson came in, he just undid everything,” she said. “You kind of see that yin and yang through history where you gain a certain point, and then a different president, a different administration, just comes in, like Trump, and undoes it.”

Emerson, Nystuen and Pudvah plan to wrap up their 11-year project with a trip to Washington, D.C., and visits to presidential libraries.

“Reading the presidential books has made me aware of other issues, and why my vote and voice matters,” Emerson said.

A list of the biographies read by the book club is viewable on our website at tinyurl.com/swj-prez-bio. (For Gerald Ford, the group cheated and read his autobiography.)

Jan Emerson, Lynne Nystuen and Tama Pudvah page through some presidential biographies inside Pudvah’s Lynnhurst home. In 2009, the three women joined together to form a book club dedicated to reading a biography of every American president. Submitted photo

southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 A7

Lisa Bender won’t seek reelection Minneapolis City Council President Lisa Bender will not seek a third term in office, she announced in an email to supporters on Nov. 8.

Bender, who represents five Uptown-area neighborhoods on the 13-member council, was first elected in 2013 and became council president in 2018.

Her note to supporters didn’t give a reason for not seeking a third term. She wrote that she made the decision “well before multiple crises hit our city.”

Bender, a former city planner and founder of the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition, defeated incumbent Meg Tuthill in her 2013 election.

Her email noted accomplishments such as passage of the Minneapolis 2040 plan that ended single-family zoning requirements, inclusionary zoning and an ordinance that provides protections to renters.

Bender was a leading voice in spearheading the controversial 2040 plan, which sought to address the affordable housing crisis by rezoning most of the city for increased density and allowing triplexes in singlefamily neighborhoods.

She also was an advocate for bike lanes and led efforts to reduce and eliminate parking minimums near bus and light rail lines and to legalize accessory dwelling units.

South Uptown Neighborhood Association

More from Dee

president Max Ellis said she is saddened by the news that Bender will be departing the council.

She said that Bender and her staff have graciously given their time, noting their attendance at neighborhood association meetings, and that there was always open communication between the association and Bender.

“It’s always been an open dialogue,” she said.

In recent months, Bender has been criticized for supporting a pledge to defund the Minneapolis Police Department in the wake of the killing of George Floyd and she has become the target of many residents’ anger over a pattern of increased violent crime in Southwest. While the council continues to work on efforts to reimagine public safety in Minneapolis, Bender has expressed regrets about the effect of the pledge, telling the New York Times that it “created confusion in the community and in our wards.”

In her statement, Bender said she has learned a lot about “people, power and about how systems work to support or stop change.”

She thanked her family and volunteers and said more work must happen to reduce racial disparities, meet greenhouse gas-reduction goals and build systems of safety that work for everyone.

— Nate Gotlieb

Minivan strikes jogger, plunges into Lake Harriet A minivan struck a jogger at about 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 5 on the north side of Lake Harriet before plunging into the lake, authorities said.

Passersby helped pull the driver to safety from the partially submerged car, said Robin Smothers, a spokesperson for the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. Smothers said the driver was having a medical emergency or experiencing some other impairment.

Both the jogger and the driver were taken to Hennepin County Medical Center for treatment, though neither was seriously hurt.

The pedestrian and biking path around the lake was closed near the Rose Garden immediately after the incident.

— Nate Gotlieb

FROM PUBLIC SAFETY / PAGE A5

better spent on more cops rather than more resources for violence interruption programs.

“I would like a better answer about where the $185 million has gone because it just seems like it didn’t go into producing the outcomes we would have expected,” Council Member Steve Fletcher (Ward 3) told Arradondo on Nov. 10, wondering how the department “has eaten the entire budget” even though staffing levels have plummeted.

The police chief, whose manner is usually placid, responded with emotion.

“Whether it’s a $185 million budget or a $585 million budget, I have 74 people who are no longer alive in this city because they’ve been killed,” Arradondo said. “We can go back and forth on the $185 million, but that is not stopping the bloodshed that is occurring every day in our city. … At least

Passersby helped pull to safety the driver of a car partially submerged in Lake Harriet on Nov. 5. Submitted photo

90% is salaries, wages and benefits. It’s not like I’m sitting on a treasure chest.” (The MPD says the department is over budget due to overtime costs.)

The fissures among the council became more pronounced as the meeting progressed, with Jeremiah Ellison (Ward 5) characterizing Arradondo’s response as “no strategy, no plan, ‘shut up and pay us’” and Lisa Goodman (Ward 7) denouncing her colleagues’ “disrespect for the chief.” “That is not disrespect; that is doing my job of oversight as a council member,” Phillipe Cunningham (Ward 4) replied.

Cunningham, who chairs the council’s public safety committee, said he thinks there needs to be much more of a focus on programs from the Office of Violence Prevention, which is set to receive $2.85 million from the mayor’s 2021 budget, while still funding “targeted law enforcement.”

SEE PUBLIC SAFETY / PAGE A12

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A8 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

PUBLISHER Janis Hall jhall@swjournal.com

Stories of coronavirus in Minneapolis

CO-PUBLISHER & SALES MANAGER Terry Gahan tgahan@swjournal.com

EDITOR

How do you tell the story of what it’s like to live through a pandemic?

Throughout this crisis, the Southwest Journal is keeping in touch with a selection of local residents including a bedside nurse, a schoolteacher, a retired couple, a pair of small business owners and a religious leader.

All interviews are edited for length and clarity. Reporting for this issue is by Zac Farber.

Zac Farber 612-436-4391 zfarber@swjournal.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Vongroven, bedside nurse, HCMC

Michelle Bruch Nate Gotlieb Andrew Hazzard Farrah Mina Anne Noonan

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Valerie Moe vmoe@swjournal.com

DISTRIBUTION Marlo Johnson 612-436-4388 distribution@swjournal.com

ADVERTISING sales@swjournal.com 612-436-4360

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NEXT ISSUE DATE: November 26 News and ad deadline: November 18 32,000 copies of the Southwest Journal are distributed free of charge to homes and businesses in Southwest Minneapolis.

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“And lo and behold, that was probably the day I got infected.”

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 4 Two days ago, on Monday, I spiked a fever and got the chills. I noticed I was having a hard time controlling my temperature over the weekend, but I thought it was because I’d been outside and then come inside. I didn’t think much about it at the time.

I went into the hospital Tuesday morning and got tested for COVID, and by that time I had body aches, nausea and just generally didn’t feel good. I proceeded yesterday as if I had COVID, quarantining, and then the results hit early this morning that indeed I do.

I was working with a COVID patient last week, and we’re pretty sure that’s how I got it.

But who’s to know? I haven’t eaten inside of a restaurant since February, and I grocery shop in public once per month — wearing my mask.

One reason I’m so terrified is that this weekend I attended a wedding of a family member. It was mostly outdoors, in a greenhouse. But because I was so concerned about the spread of COVID, I wore my N95 the entire time. I didn’t take it off even to eat. I never took it off inside, not once, not during the reception, never.

But you just don’t know. I was worried about people at that event infecting me and my bringing it back to my patients or immunocompromised friends, and here it was me the whole time. But my mask probably prevented the spread of the disease.

I started talking to my closest family members last night and called the rest of them this morning. Most people have been very supportive. One is mad at me, and that’s hard. It’s an awful feeling. To think I could be responsible for anybody’s demise is heartbreaking. I’m carrying this huge guilt for

something I didn’t know that I had. Making those phone calls has been a test of personal fortitude — of saying, “You’ve got to face up to it, you’ve got to deal with it.”

You have to proceed with life with calculated risk. You can’t just sit in your house until the end of days, hoping everything will pass.

You do have to rejoin the human race, but you have to do it safely. … One second, I just need to breathe for a second. I made the mistake of getting up and walking around and this is the first time the shortness of breath has really hit me.

It is interesting to have COVID now after all this time fighting against it. At least now my voice will have a different meaning to it when I speak and maybe people will listen to me a little bit more when I say, “It can happen to you, it can happen to anyone.”

I have asthma, and I’ve been worried about that. I’m scared. I’ve watched two of my coworkers on life support, and I don’t want that to be me. I don’t want to be lying in a hospital bed and having my coworkers flipping me over and changing me and putting food through a tube in my nose and helping me breathe. I don’t want that for anybody, and I don’t want my family to have to go through watching me die.

But I’m an otherwise healthy individual, and there’s no reason to think I can’t have flu-like symptoms and be back into fighting form in a couple of weeks.

Right now, I feel terribly short of breath.

When I’m taking a breath in, the air is really thin like I’m on a mountaintop. It’s like trying to breathe through a damp sponge. But my oxygen levels are good! Oftentimes with COVID, it’s the opposite: You’ll feel fine, but your oxygen levels are way below sustaining life. So I feel like crap, but it looks OK. I have a pulse oximeter, and if my oxygen goes below 90 and I can’t bring it back up with my inhalers, I’ll need to go into the hospital. I don’t know what’s in front of me. I just know I’m doing everything I’ve read that can possibly help. I’m drinking lots of water, which is not hard because for some reason I’m very thirsty.

I’m taking vitamin D, which a lot of people have messaged me about. I’m getting lots of fluid and rest. [Coughs.] I’m staying up on all of my allergy meds. I’m taking my preventative inhaler, because the steroid inhaler has been shown to help severe forms of COVID for children who have asthma. [Coughs.] I’m trying to really listen to my body.

I slept for a couple hours today, but I’m mentally tired. I was just saying to someone last week how I’m exhausted. We’ve been working and working through all of this, and I said, “I’m tired of being essential.” We kind of laughed about it, and I said, “I could use a two-week vacation.” And lo and behold, that was probably the day I got infected. So be careful what you wish for.

I think nurses in Minneapolis have particularly been going through the ringer, with the civil and political unrest and the pandemic.

Things at the hospital had settled down at the end of summer, but they started picking up again this fall. The number of COVID patients has been increasing and we’re dealing with staffing issues. I looked at the numbers online this

morning and there were [dozens of COVID-19 patients]. We were down to almost zero before, so it’s coming back. We’re still in trauma season [due to good weather] right now, so we’re also very busy with non-COVID patients.

[In terms of health care staff contracting COVID-19, it’s been] sporadic at HCMC — there hasn’t been any trend. In some respects, we’re safer, because even though we’re in the quoteunquote snake pit, we’re aware of the snakes.

We’re working with the proper equipment. We’re watching out for each other. Whereas some members of the general public deny there are snakes and wonder why they’re getting bit.

But we are more at risk because we’re working directly with COVID. While we are being vigilant, when you work with a deadly virus, there’s a chance you’re going to get it.

More nurses have now died from COVID than died during World War I. We’re going to keep doing it as long as we have to, but we are tired. You’re tired of hearing about and dealing with it, but we’re tired of fighting it. We need you; we can’t do this alone. Although we have experience on our side, we tapped all the resources we had in order to make it through last time.

For me now, I might as well just sit down and enjoy the ride because there’s nothing I can do. It’s paralyzing a little bit and I feel kind of impotent. Because I’m used to doing stuff, to walking around — “let me get you something for it, let me call the doctor” — that’s what I usually do. So it’s frustrating for my personality to just sit here waiting. [Coughs.]

People said coronavirus was supposed to go away today after the election, so doesn’t it seem fitting that I get tested on Election Day and test positive on Nov. 4? [Laughs.] It’s a little coincidental.

This election has been stressful on everyone, no matter how you voted, because we are so divided as a nation and so focused on our differences. Things have been tough for everyone.

I voted with an absentee ballot. I dropped it off on Tuesday right after my COVID test. I had my N95, it was outside, I touched nobody and did not stand within 6 feet of anybody.

On election night, I was so tired that all I did was check results once an hour online. The nice thing about feeling like crap is it takes your attention away from other things. I didn’t really care all that much like I normally would.

When you’re spending all your energy trying to stop the chills so you can stay warm, the election kind of goes out the window.

MONDAY, NOV. 9 I have been so ecstatic that it appears I’ve had one of the milder cases of COVID. I’ve had fever, chills, body aches, nausea, stomach upset and headaches. I’m terribly short of breath doing the smallest tasks. Going up the stairs to my bedroom is like “oof.” I’ve got to stand and breathe for a second when I get to the top.

But while I’m tired, I’m actually not feeling too horribly overall. The fever finally broke, though I still have the congestion and the cough.

I was closely monitoring my oxygen saturation because it felt like I couldn’t get enough breath, but my oxygen levels were great — not below 94% ever. Well, 93% once, but I got it back up. So I got really lucky.

SEE VOICES / PAGE A9

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southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 A9

Community mentorship

Voices

Not a monolithic block How amusing to see the latest letter published about the Minneapolis Public Schools’ Comprehensive District Design (CDD) headlined by “Decentering white parents” (Oct. 29 issue) when all three letters published since September were written by, well, white parents! I applaud the public nature of a conversation that wrestles with what the role of white parents in the Minneapolis Public Schools has been/should be, but these letters continue to speak about the topic like they know what is best for children of color. There was plenty of disagreement about the CDD among Somali and Latinx families and African Americans were not in agreement either — some community leaders supported and some opposed the plan and/or the process — but all of these letters glossed over this fact.

It is 100% true that for decades, “nice white parents” have used their influence in this district to the detriment of children of color and to say this did not happen during the CDD process would be disingenuous. But it is whitecentric to ignore the differences of opinion among Somali, Latinx and African American families by painting the situation as a purely white versus BIPOC picture (not to mention that the short-hand BIPOC presumes that people of color are a monolithic block with the same opinions, needs and values). While we white parents, myself included, should wrestle with our own roles and motivations in public education and the CDD, we should not perpetuate the status quo while doing it.

Emily Greenwald Johnson Fulton

Public safety has become a pressing issue in Minneapolis. Since George Floyd’s death on Memorial Day, violence is up, and public morale is down. The crime problem is primarily in the 3rd and 4th Precincts, but everyone living in Southwest Minneapolis is catching the debris.

The saddest part is that many of the people committing crimes and being hurt or killed are young people. Now is the time to remember that it takes a village to raise a child and figure out how we can help be part of solutions.

Some community organizations in the city already are doing that. One of those is A Mother’s Love, led by Lisa Clemons, who has a simple mission: “If you save a mother, you save a child. If you save a father, you save the family. If you save the family, you save a community.” On Oct. 21, Clemons and other community leaders spoke at a public safety forum hosted by the Lowry Hill East Neighborhood Association (LHENA). All of them agreed that we need all hands on deck to address the trauma that is impacting

FROM VOICES / PAGE A8

our communities. Young people need more positive role models, and mentorship can have positive ripple effects in their lives that create real, generational change.

To bring back that village mentality, LHENA is partnering with community mentorship programs in Minneapolis.

The goal is to give Southwest Minneapolis residents an opportunity to become youth mentors and support the work of community mentorship programs. By bringing people together from different neighborhoods and walks of life, we can build that village all children need. In these times, it’s easy to feel cynical. But fight those urges. We decide the future, and we hope you’ll join us (tinyurl. com/lhena-survey) to increase the peace and create more opportunities and justice for all.

Eric Ortiz Eric Ortiz is on the Lowry Hill East Neighborhood Association board and a member of LHENA’s public safety and racial justice committee.

SHARE YOUR MEMORIES OF THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL The Southwest Journal is scheduled to stop publishing after Dec. 17, and as we work on our farewell issue, we want to hear from you!

What has reading the Southwest Journal meant to you over the past 31 years? Is there a story, quote or headline you’ve never forgotten? Have you found a creative way to recycle all the paper? Did you meet your partner while reaching for a copy at the newsstand?

Please send your Southwest Journal reminiscences to editor@swjournal.com with the subject line “Remembering the SWJ” and we may publish them in our final issue. You can also mail them to: 1115 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 55403. We ask that you keep submissions to under 50 words.

Thank you so much for all of your support over the years.

Chino Latino, Apple

store close in Uptown

PAGE A4 • Apartment approved

on Curran’s site PAGE

A7 • School start times may change

PAGE A8

Vol. 31, No. 22 October 29–November 11, 2020 southwestjournal.com

Hitting the polls ear ly Neighborhood organizat ions

Mike Seaworth drops off his ballot on Oct. 23 at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, one of 13 drop-off sites citywide.

Photo by Isaiah Rustad

work to get out the

vote

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that, like many other community businesses, the Southwest Journal has been impacted by the pandemic. Our advertising sales are down this year and this latest decline follows a years-long loss in newspaper revenue. An additional factor in our decision to stop publishing is that we are ready to retire.

For these reasons, the Dec. 17 issue will be our final publication.

We have proudly served our community for over 30 years, building a 32,000-circulation newspaper from our Linden Hills kitchen in 1990, with the help of numerous Twin Cities journalists, artists, photographers, editors, administrative assistants and salespeople.

The paper has always been free and home delivered, thanks to our advertisers, who have supported our model of community journalism for over three decades.

We are extremely grateful to the dedicated readers who answered our call for donations and sent money over the past six months. Your letters lifted our spirits more than we can tell you.

We also received a Paycheck Protection Program loan that got us through several months of expenses, but is running out.

The Southwest Journal is being offered for sale and we would be happy to find a buyer who loves print as we do. Please see the ad on page A10 for details on how to contact our broker, Sunbelt.

After this issue, we will no longer employ fulltime reporters. It’s a difficult decision and one we must make. We will continue with our full-time editor, Zac Farber, our longtime creative director, Valerie Moe, our stalwart distribution manager, Marlo Johnson, and our salesperson, Owen Davis.

We are grateful to have such dedicated employees through this difficult transition.

By Andrew Hazzard

By the time in-person polls open on Tuesday, Nov. 3, more than half voters in many Southwest of registered Minneapolis precincts will have already cast Through Oct. 26, more their ballots. than 125,000 of the city’s 271,049 pre-registered cast ballots, according voters to Minneapolis Election and Voter Services. Southwest’s had 13 leads the city with 58% of ballots returned, Ward and more than 45% of from each ward in the registered voters Southwest area have cast their votes.

SEE ELECTION / PAGE

Southwest Journal to stop publishing at end of year

A11

A few cases, no outb

— Janis Hall and Terry

reaks at private scho

By Nate Gotlieb

None of Southwest Minneapolis’ five private schools — each of which started the year with an in-person or hybrid model — has yet appeared on the state’s list of schools facing COVID-19 outbreaks.

Nor has Hennepin Elementary School, the only one of Southwest’s three charter schools to offer in-person instruction. The state defines an outbreak as five or more confirmed cases in a two-week period.

The reopening of schools has been a hotbutton issue across the country, as public, charter and private schools look to balance safety with meeting the social, emotional and academic needs of students.

The resumption of in-person classes at Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) remains under discussion.

A nationwide August survey of public

A 9-year-old environmentalist PAGE A12

ols

school districts found that about 60% intended to hold some form of in-person classes to start the year. Meanwhile, over 80% of private schools were planning to offer in-person classes, though not necessarily full time, according to a different survey from the National Association of Independent Schools.

While all five Southwest private schools have offered in-person classes, just one — Annunciation Catholic School in Windom — is offering full-time, in-person classes for all grades. Carondelet Catholic School, which has campuses in Linden Hills and Fulton, offers full-time, in-person classes for students in grades K-6.

Lake Country School, a K-8 Montessori SEE SCHOOLS / PAGE

A6

Fourth grader Isaac Burgmaier and other students at Carondelet lanyards at the start Catholic School were of the school year to given avoid misplacing their reported just one COVID-19 masks. The private case in two months school has of in-person classes.

Submitted photo

Southwest parks plan approved

Fall poetry

PAGE A13

PAGE A14

Voices from the pandemic PAGE A18

Gahan

I don’t know if I’m totally in the clear yet, but I’m taking it day by day.

I’m doing a lot of relaxing and sitting down. I take a walk every day to keep the lungs working. Some days I have more energy than others.

On Saturday morning, I got up just happy to be in shorts and a T-shirt in Minnesota in November. I had my coffee on my front porch — I can’t really taste the coffee, but I like the warmth. All of a sudden, my phone started going off that Joe Biden had been announced as president-elect.

I immediately put my mask on and jumped in my car and played the national anthem and drove around my neighborhood honking my horn and screaming, “We’ve got a new president.” I spent some time afterward on my porch. When cars would go by, they’d honk, and I’d go “woo hoo,” and then it was back to bed.

Even being on the porch and upright for an hour and a half knocked me out for the rest of the day.

A lot of my coworkers have been checking in on me, and I sent an update to my boss today, letting her know what my symptoms are. I’m alive, I’m breathing, I may feel like crap, but I am upright and sentient.

I got really lucky — masks work, social distancing works! — in that not one person who I was exposed to over my weekend in Wisconsin has contracted COVID-19. Not one person. I was carrying the weight of the world on me and was so worried I could cause someone’s illness or death. But it was a calculated risk.

Wear your mask, wash your hands.

A10 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

By Nate Gotlieb

Workshops planned for Burroughs students Fifth graders at Burroughs Community School in Lynnhurst will participate in a series of environment-related arts workshops for the second straight year thanks to a LynLake arts nonprofit.

The Highpoint Center for Printmaking has received a $14,600 grant through Hennepin County’s Green Partners Environmental Education program to host the workshops at Burroughs and at Nellie Stone Johnson Community School in North Minneapolis.

The students participating in the workshops will learn about factors threatening water and pollinators and actions they can take to prevent pollution, according to the county.

They will also create art projects around what they learn, said Tyler Green, Highpoint’s education and community programs manager.

“The idea is that we want to connect students with the water bodies that they live around,” he said.

Green said that Highpoint decided to undertake the workshops because of its commitment to caring for the environment.

He said the nonprofit chose to work with Burroughs and Nellie Stone Johnson specifically because both schools have raingardens and are close to bodies of water. (Burroughs is adjacent to Minnehaha Creek, and Nellie Stone Johnson is near the Mississippi River.)

Last year, students in the workshops learned about the connection between storm drains and local bodies of water,

Green said, adding that they helped sort through garbage found in Lake Hiawatha.

At the end of this school year, Highpoint plans to partner with the nonprofit Pollinate Minnesota to help students learn more about the animals and plants in the local ecosystem.

It plans to do print- and map-making projects with the students and to give each of them a water bottle in an effort to reduce waste.

Highpoint was one of 20 organizations to receive a grant through the Green Part-

ners Environmental Education program in September. The county says that the 23 grantfunded projects are expected to reach more than 200,000 residents and that 21 projects will engage people of color and residents of “areas of concern for environmental justice.”

In Southwest Minneapolis, the Whittierbased Somali American Women Action Center received a $10,000 grant for an effort to help East African youth learn the connection between plastic bags, climate change,

environmental justice and waste.

Additionally, Minneapolis Climate Action and Fortune Relief And Youth Empowerment Organization (FRAYEO) received $20,000 to help East Africans reduce their use of single-use plastics and learn about climate change, and the Tangletown Neighborhood Association received a grant for its textile-waste-reduction efforts.

A Hennepin County grant-funded program through the Highpoint Center for Printmaking has helped students at Burroughs Community School in Lynnhurst learn about rain gardens and water pollution. Submitted photos

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southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 A11

By Andrew Hazzard

Park Board approves naturalized design for The Mall The Southwest Service Area Master Plan has finally been fully approved after commissioners reached an agreement on The Mall in Uptown.

After a divided board was unable to decide on the design for The Mall in October, commissioners voted unanimously on Nov. 4 to go along with the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) vision to naturalize paved sections of the park. Plans for all other 41 neighborhood parks in Southwest were approved on Oct. 21.

The CAC design for The Mall was among the most debated features of the Southwest Parks Plan, which will map out the future of neighborhood parks in the area for decades to come. Members of the CAC chose a design that will replace the roadway between Bde Maka Ska Boulevard and Irving Avenue with grass and trees.

Katie Jones, a CAC member who encouraged the Park Board to adopt the design, said the plan would better meet the mission of providing outdoor recreation space instead of a road used mainly for parking.

“This dense, high-renter area has a real need for park space and community garden space,” Jones said.

Commissioner Meg Forney (At Large) had previously opposed the design but said she changed her mind after discussions with CAC members and local historians about the park and its roadway. Other commissioners who had voted against the design — as well as Commissioner Kale Severson (District 2), who had been absent for the tied October vote — supported the CAC design.

The plan would maintain the current roadway between Irving and Humboldt avenues and convert the street into a shareduse “woonerf ” street between Humboldt and Hennepin avenues. Other proposed features include native plantings and rain gardens, community gardens along the Midtown Greenway and improved trail connections for bikers and pedestrians. The Park Board and Hennepin County also plan to team up to add an improved plaza and play area near the Uptown Transit Station.

Park Board commissioners have approved a design plan for The Mall in Uptown that will replace two blocks of roadway with green space and trees. Submitted image

Proposed parks budget adjusts to pandemic constraints A proposed Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) budget would bring department realignment and maintain in-place hiring freezes while investing more in youth services as the system reels from financial hits imposed by the pandemic.

“It has been a very difficult year,” Superintendent Al Bangoura said. “The 2021 budgeting process has certainly been the most challenging of my career.”

In light of that, his budget proposal is focusing on protecting and preserving park assets while focusing investments on youth programming.

The $128.7 million proposed budget would include $27.8 million in capital improvement funds, including $10.5 million from the 20-year Neighborhood Parks Plan.

The recommended budget would come with

a 1.18% property tax levy hike that would not result in increased taxes for a $271,000 median-value home in the city.

Park Board financial director Juli Wiseman said the system faced a $6.1 million deficit heading into 2021 and had to make adjustments to maintain the additional $2 million identified by commissioners in 2019 as necessary to boost youth programming.

Many vacant MPRB positions will not be filled, and the overtime budget for staff would be reduced. Several part-time and seasonal work hours would also be cut in the 2021 budget. One park police officer position would be cut in the proposed budget. The MPRB currently has a hiring freeze in place.

While the forestry preservation coordinator position has been made permanent,

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Bangoura’s budget calls for eliminating the forestry outreach coordinator position, a role many environmental advocates say is critical. Next year is the final year of the reforestation levy, which has aimed to plant additional trees to account for losses due to emerald ash borer and the tornado that hit the city in 2011.

“We have made every reduction possible in non-labor costs,” Wiseman said.

The MPRB is likely to have a smaller staff and will consolidate some departments.

Revenue-generating activities like golf, ice arenas, aquatics and athletics will be merged together under Bangoura’s budget. The recreation center department will merge with youth services, and Teen Teamworks, a youth employment program, will be inte-

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grated into environmental management.

Bangoura is proposing a new community support services department that will include staff from community outreach and park police to address safety issues in city parks.

The superintendent would also like to form a data analytics and response team that will work within the planning department and provide services across the system.

“I truly believe these organizational changes will allow the organization to deliver the best programs and services in the country,” Bangoura said.

A public comment hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Nov. 18. Commissioners will vote on the budget in committee on Dec. 2 before a final hearing and vote scheduled at city hall on Dec. 9.

A12 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com FROM RENTERS / PAGE A1

Franklin & Nicollet, more than $10,000 in the blocks surrounding Mueller Park, more than $10,000 near 38th & Nicollet and more than $7,000 near Lake & Dean Parkway. The state’s deadline to apply for funds is Dec. 30.

Assistant property manager Wiley Koehler expected to see an uptick in nonpayment when the extra $600 unemployment payments expired in July, but so far he hasn’t seen it.

“It’s better than we expected,” he said, explaining that At Home Apartments is making deferred payment plans and not charging late fees. “Most people are either on track or at least have been in communication with us and we’ve come to some sort of plan or agreement.”

In “normal” times, eviction filings in Hennepin County average 500 per month, typically more than 90% due to nonpayment, according to HOME Line. During the pandemic, filings are down to about 30 per month, according to Legal Aid. Evictions can still proceed under a few exceptions, including endangering other residents, illegal activity, significant property damage and a landlord or family member’s need to move in.

The most common eviction filing now relates to endangering the safety of others, leading to nearly 50 complaints in Hennepin County between late March and mid-October, according to HOME Line. That’s followed by illegal activity on the premises, most often drug use, which accounted for more than 30 filings.

Specific incidents like shootings and graphic fights have almost always resulted in successful evictions, while more vague complaints like “verbal violence” have been dismissed.

The standard of proof for criminal activity is lower in civil cases, so a landlord can win a case even if a tenant hasn’t been convicted of a crime. Legal Aid attorneys said allegations of illegal drug use still need to be proven through evidence like first-hand testimony, photos, documents and police reports, and some of those cases have been dismissed.

Pandemic-era rental market

Apartment vacancy is noticeably higher than this time last year, Koehler said, and not just in Uptown, where At Home Apartments is offering specials like the first month free. People are moving out at normal rates, he said, but there have been fewer inquiries for new leases.

Southwest Minneapolis’ third quarter vacancy rate is up from 2.9% in 2019 to 3.4% in 2020, according to Maxfield Research.

FROM SCHOOL BOARD / PAGE A1

member and business owner Sharon El-Amin over one-term incumbent KerryJo Felder, an opponent of the CDD who had the backing of the DFL and teachers union.

Not since 2014 had a non-DFL-endorsed candidate won a seat on the nine-member board.

In the one citywide race on the ballot, eight-year board member Kim Ellison, who received the DFL endorsement, defeated former North Hennepin Community College dean Michael Dueñes, though it was Ellison’s narrowest victory of her three elections. Ellison, who joined the board in 2012 and was voted president this past January, won 61% of 187,289 votes cast

Average rent is $1,328, a 0.2% increase over last year, indicating to Maxfield that rent growth has slowed substantially. President Mary Bujold said she expects to see more vacancies as new Southwest apartments open in the next 12 months. New arrivals include more than 300 units at Daymark Uptown at the Sons of Norway site on Lake Street, which is offering up to two months free for longterm leases.

The University of Minnesota’s Center for Urban and Regional Affairs recently studied how new apartment construction impacts neighborhood rents. Research has long shown that new market-rate housing can result in more affordable housing in the long run, but less is understood about the impact in the short-term, states the working paper. Rents rose throughout Minneapolis from 200018. But in the cheapest buildings near new market-rate construction, rent grew 6.6% more than buildings 300-800 meters away.

And rent at the most expensive buildings near new construction grew 3.2% slower than buildings slightly farther away. The strongest impacts were found closest to new construction (roughly within a four-minute walking distance), persisting for at least two years.

Most construction evaluated in the study took place between 2015 and 2017, so longer-term effects aren’t known yet.

“If new market-rate apartment construction is leading to higher rents for lower-cost housing, we believe it is crucial to develop policies that both encourage housing supply growth while also protecting existing lowincome communities from higher housing costs and displacement,” states the paper.

Anti-displacement action

The city is trying a new strategy to tackle displacement. Whittier neighborhood residents are among the Minneapolitans who will get top priority for new affordable housing under a policy approved by the City Council on Oct. 30. The “community preference” policy aims to counter displacement in neighborhoods where housing costs are rising rapidly, including North Minneapolis and parts of the Northeast, Phillips and Powderhorn communities. For example, current Whittier residents and people who lost Whittier homes during the foreclosure crisis dating back to 2007 would get first priority for half the units in a new project that takes local or federal funds. The policy currently applies to owner-occupied housing projects on city land or developed with city funds, with plans to expand to rental housing next year.

compared with 38% for Dueñes.

The race between Ellison and Dueñes can be seen as a referendum on the district’s CDD plan. Ellison defended the plan, passed in May, while Dueñes was a staunch critic.

Ellison’s support was strongest in North and Northeast Minneapolis, Downtown and in the neighborhoods immediately south of Downtown, where she more than 60% of the vote. She fared less well in South Minneapolis, particularly in Ward 13, where she won 52% of the vote and where opposition to the CDD was significant.

The plan redraws school attendance zones, converts most grades K-8 schools into K-5 schools and moves magnet programs toward the geographic center of Minneapolis. Ellison has said the plan will provide

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION RESULTS At Large District 2

Votes

Percent

114,821

61%

Michael Dueñes

71,421

38%

Sharon El-Amin

13,579

55%

11,010

45%

Adriana Cerrillo

15,935

50%

Christa Mims (DFL endorsed)

15,623

49%

Kim Ellison (incumbent, DFL endorsed)

KerryJo Felder (incumbent, DFL endorsed) District 5

Data courtesy of Minnesota Secretary of State

Asad Aliweyd connects residents with emergency housing payments as executive director of the New American Development Center on Eat Street. “Overall, the program is helping a lot of families not to become homeless,” he says. “Especially immigrant families.” Photo by Michelle Bruch

“This is a huge deal,” Council Member Lisa Goodman (Ward 7) said at a recent committee meeting.

Similar policies enacted in New York and San Francisco have been challenged under the Fair Housing Act. So Minneapolis commissioned a study to help ensure that the new guidelines would not perpetuate segregation or hurt a protected class of people.

North Side and former South Uptown resident Owen Duckworth, a member of the Minneapolis/St. Paul Anti-Displacement Policy Network team that recommended the policy, said it won’t dramatically change the landscape.

“But there’s something powerful about this recognition of past harm, especially done to communities of color,” he said. “Here’s a preference for you, here’s an opportunity for you to return to a neighborhood or to a community that you’ve been displaced from against your will. It’s not insignificant.”

Duckworth said he worries about residents feeling pressure to move out, knowing they could be evicted as soon as the moratorium ends.

“We don’t want to just postpone a wave of evictions; we need to prevent them,” he said.

Aliweyd was upset to see one father respond to a landlord’s threatening letter by moving out along with his child, even though the law protected them from eviction and even though they were eligible for emergency rent money.

“Landlords can’t go to court [for nonpayment], but they’re still sending threatening letters,” Aliweyd said.

The Aliveness Project is also helping clients apply for emergency funds. But they’re finding several clients aren’t eligible because they are couch hopping or aren’t in the right income bracket. Affordable housing was a crisis before

the pandemic, staff said, and some clients have been living in encampments because they aren’t eligible to live in hotel rooms provided

by Hennepin County and can’t find spots in shelters with limited capacity.

HOME Line Housing Attorney Andrea Palumbo said she tells residents facing eviction to negotiate with their landlords as much as possible.

“The worst thing in the world you can do, really, is just hide from your landlord and dread the inevitable. It’s really important and it goes a long way to be as proactive as you can,” she said.

students with more equitable magnet offerings and allow the district to provide more resources to neighborhood schools.

Ellison said she wants to reach out to families who feel disenfranchised by the CDD to hear their concerns and how they can be addressed, though she added: “You’re not going to make everybody happy all of the time.”

In District 2, the race marked a turnaround in fortunes for El-Amin, who is a member of the North High School site council and whose three kids graduated from the school. She had finished fourth in a four-way race for two open at-large seats in a 2018 bid that was marred by transphobic Facebook posts she made between 2013 and 2016 for which she has since apologized.

She attributed her victory in part to efforts to creatively get her name and message out during the time of COVID-19, such as through phone banking and social media.

“The hardest part was letting people know that my name was on the ballot and what I was running for,” she said. “We just really tried to hit every different angle that we had.”

She said she questions why the DFL makes endorsements in the nonpartisan School Board races. “I think people are looking for individuals that they can trust and not just a selected group of leaders deciding,” she said.

In District 4, Cerrillo said her work helping families of color become involved in their schools helped her earn support. She also said endorsements from state Sen. Patricia Torres

Ray, a DFLer who represents parts of Richfield and Southeast Minneapolis, and former District 4 candidate Ken Shain, who finished third in a three-way primary, were influential. She beat Mims by just 312 votes out of 31,832 cast.

“Our coalition was broad and included small businesses that are a big part of what our community loves about our city,” she wrote in a text message.

Linden Hills resident Sara Freeman, who supported Cerrillo, El-Amin and Ellison, said El-Amin is a hard worker who is deeply passionate about the North Minneapolis community.

She said she has never seen a first-time candidate turn out votes in the way that Cerrillo did.

“I think that’s a tribute to her deep roots in the community,” she said. She added that she thinks that Mims, whom she knows through the nonprofit Domestic Abuse Project, should run again.

On Facebook, Dueñes hinted at continued political ambitions, telling supporters that their yard signs will “come in handy in the future.”

In an interview, he said he was feeling great about his level of support despite limited resources and that he plans to continue holding listening sessions with different communities in the school district.

One-term incumbent Ira Jourdain ran unopposed and won in District 6, which covers the Southwest Minneapolis neighborhoods south of Lake Street excluding ECCO.

FROM PUBLIC SAFETY / PAGE A7

“When folks talk about people dying, those numbers are not abstract to me,” he said. “In my office, while I was sitting here with my windows open, I heard a gunshot that killed a 16-year-old a couple blocks from my house.

When we add ... folks who are out doing patrols, we are just adding to that churn and not getting different outcomes.”

Yet others also committed to a new public safety model are not as ready to move away from the MPD. “The murders, the shootings, the robberies — all of these things have to be dealt with,” said Council Vice President Andrea Jenkins (Ward 8), who cast the deciding vote to approve the joint enforcement contract. “If we were remodeling our house, we would have the luxury to move out while all the rehabbing was going on.

When we rebuild our police system, we don’t have the luxury to move out of our house.”

A14 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

least 7.5% in Wards 6, 7, 8, 10 and 11. Across the district, Omar won 64% of the vote, Johnson won 26% and Moore won 9.5%.

Making it count

“It was joy. Everybody was happy out here,” says Reggie LeFlore, describing the atmosphere at Lake & Lyndale when the presidential race was called Nov. 7. Photo by Michelle Bruch

FROM ELECTION / PAGE A1

When media outlets called the race for Biden Saturday, Reggie LeFlore described an atmosphere of “joy” at Lake & Lyndale, where a woman waved a Biden-Harris sign on the corner and passersby in cars and fire trucks honked. He spent the weekend finishing a mural at the intersection, adding the words “Your vote mattered” below the message “Black Lives Matter, All Year Round.”

“It was a relief,” he said. “We’ve still got work to do.”

Nearly 238,000 Minneapolis residents voted, surpassing the previous record set in 2016. The totals included more than 170,000 absentee ballots and more than 67,000 Election Day ballots. As of Nov. 10, Minnesota had the highest voter turnout in the nation at 79.9%, according to the United States Election Project.

Mixed emotions

Near the Lyndale Park Rose Garden on Sunday, a group raised a toast to Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. Fulton resident Jim Joyce said he felt hopeful for the future.

Relaxing near Lake Harriet, Armatage resident Sean Ahmad said he was feeling relieved and happy.

“I could be happier. Biden’s not the greatest, Kamala either,” he said. “It’s better than Trump. But it’s the status quo.”

He said no president deported more people than President Barack Obama, and Biden was part of that administration.

Awaiting the bus at 40th & Nicollet, Alexei

Setian said she wants to see Harris out of office as soon as possible, saying her record on marijuana prosecution shows a disconnect from the people who empower her.

Anticipating wet weather, Michael Hawman worked to fortify the tent where he was living near 40th & Stevens.

“I’m kind of glad Biden won, but then again, Trump helped me out,” he said, referring to unemployment benefits he received when he was laid off. He said Trump can behave like a child, but he understands.

“I get that. I do that sometimes, too.

People talk crap, and you want to fire back,” he said.

Sitting at the Ramen Kazama patio on 34th Street, a woman named Hayat said she’s concerned that Trump will not concede the election and could use his lame duck session to make life difficult for his successor.

“I’m concerned about what his angle is going to be between now and January,” she said.

What it means for Minneapolis

Under the Minnesota Legislature’s previous makeup, it was extremely difficult to find bipartisan support to help rebuild properties that were damaged following George Floyd’s killing, said Fatima Moore, the city’s new Intergovernmental Relations director. And she said it may not be any easier under the new makeup, where the GOP has gained seats in the Democrat-led House and maintained its majority in the Republican-led Senate.

COVID-19 is another issue that Moore is watching closely. It’s possible that GOP officials will keep working to override Gov. Tim

Walz’ peacetime emergency declaration, which has allowed the governor to mandate mask wearing, guide distance learning, stop evictions and appropriate funding.

As the state faces a budget deficit, Minneapolis may need to defend against potential cuts to state aid, she said.

State Rep. Jamie Long (District 61B) said he’s hoping legislators will do more to help businesses hurt by the pandemic.

“We are the only divided legislature in the country once again,” he said. “I’m hoping that with the election behind us, we can come together and try to enact a package to help our city rebuild.”

Long said he’s glad Biden will rejoin the Paris climate accord on his first day in office and have the chance to end inhumane immigration policies.

Fulton resident Tina Smith will return to the U.S. Senate, earning 49% of the vote to beat Republican challenger Jason Lewis’s 43%.

East Harriet resident Paul Thissen was elected to the Minnesota Supreme Court after being appointed by Gov. Mark Dayton in 2018.

U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar will return to Washington with a smaller share of the 5th District vote than she won in 2018, this time defeating an additional Legal Marijuana Now candidate as well as a better-funded challenger than she faced two years ago.

Republican Lacy Johnson raised $10.2 million, nearly double Omar’s $5.5 million.

Her support dropped in all Southwest wards; Johnson earned more than 20% of the vote in Wards 7, 11 and 13, and Legal Marijuana Now candidate Michael Moore earned at

Linden Hills resident Max Hailperin volunteered to help process absentee ballots among other people spread out in the basement of the Minneapolis Convention Center. He described staff fastidiously opening ballots, checking identification numbers, sorting ballots into precinct piles, counting the ballots, double-checking the counts and placing them in vaults to await an audit before scanning begun. He could tell voters were anxious to make sure their votes counted. Some wrote their signatures multiple ways, with and without middle initials, attached extra stamps or sent ballots by certified mail.

“I know that people have a lot of anxiety, and they should certainly take comfort in the fact that the people who are doing the work are serious and careful and crosschecking,” he said. “Every number that’s on the computer gets matched with how many physical pieces of paper there are. … You really can’t just miss something.”

ECCO resident Mike Pignato spent Election Day answering voter questions from Minnesota, Kentucky and Louisiana as part of the nonpartisan Election Protection Project with Dorsey & Whitney. After fielding questions from voters in other states, Pignato said he appreciates that Minnesota makes it easy to vote and offers same-day registration.

In Kentucky, some precincts closed earlier than promised, and some voters didn’t receive absentee ballots requested weeks prior.

Without same-day voter registration in Louisiana, residents who discovered they were no longer on the voting rolls at a particular precinct were turned away.

“You feel really good when you’re able to help someone exercise a right that’s been fought over, that’s been battled over and that’s often taken for granted,” he said. “To be part of that as a fundamental part of democracy, it just feels [like] the right thing to do.”

Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon said in a Nov. 4 briefing that he expected to see Election Day issues related to voter suppression, voter intimidation or fights over masks, but there were “next to none” statewide. He said he’d seen no evidence of any malicious cyberattack. He was also thankful for the 30,000 poll workers and election judges who worked at polling places despite rising COVID-19 case numbers.

“All elections are difficult and challenging, but this was one that we had to administer during a once-in-a-century pandemic. And I think everyone up and down the system performed nearly flawlessly,” he said.

The results

While re-electing several Democratic incumbents to the state Legislature, Minneapolis is also sending a pair of

SOUTHWEST MINNEAPOLIS ELECTION RESULTS U.S. President

Ward 6 83.5%

Ward 7 80.6%

Ward 8 84.9%

Ward 10 82.3%

Ward 11 78.1%

Ward 13

2016

Hillary Clinton

80.2%

2016

Donald Trump

8.9%

12.0%

7.4%

9.2%

14.5%

12.7%

2020

Joe Biden

87.6%

86.3%

90.8%

89.6%

84.8%

86.9%

2020

Donald Trump

10.2%

11.6%

7.2%

8.1%

13.3%

11.5%

From 2016 to 2020

Clinton/Biden

+4.0 ppts

+5.7 ppts

+5.9 ppts

+7.3 ppts

+6.7 ppts

+6.7 ppts

From 2016 to 2020

Trump

+1.3 ppts

-0.4 ppts

-0.2 ppts

-1.1 ppts

-1.2 ppts

-1.2 ppts

Ward 7

Ward 10

5th Congressional District 2018

Ilhan Omar

89.4%

83.7%

90.6%

89.2%

81.7%

82.5%

2018

Jennifer Zielinski

10.2%

15.8%

9.2%

10.5%

17.9%

17.1%

2020

Ilhan Omar

79.9%

70.8%

79.9%

78.8%

69.5%

70.8%

2020

Lacy Johnson

11.9%

20.5%

12.3%

13.0%

22.5%

22.8%

2020

Michael Moore

7.9%

8.0%

7.5%

7.9%

7.5%

5.7%

From 2018 to 2020

Omar

-9.5 ppts

-12.9 ppts

-10.6 ppts

-10.3 ppts

-12.2 ppts

-11.7 ppts

Data courtesy of Minnesota Secretary of State, with 2020 results calculated on Nov. 8

Ward 6

Ward 8

Ward 13 Ward 11

southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 A15

freshman legislators who previously won DFL endorsements and primary upsets — shifting from longtime DFL Sen. Jeff Hayden to Democratic Socialist candidate Omar Fateh in District 62 and from Rep. Raymond Dehn to Esther Agbaje in District 59B. Fateh went on to beat Republican Bruce Lundeen in the general election with 89% of the vote.

Agbaje won with 74% of the vote, defeating Republican Alan Shilepsky, who received 18%, and Green Party candidate Lisa Neal-Delgado, who received 7.6%.

Sen. Scott Dibble retained his District 61

seat with 85% of the vote, beating Republican Jennifer Zielinski’s 15%.

Rep. Frank Hornstein kept his seat with 84% of the vote in District 61A after defeating Republican challenger Kurtis Fechtmeyer, who earned 16%.

DFL Sen. Bobby Joe Champion kept his District 59 seat with 82% of the vote, defeating Republican challenger Paul Anderson’s 18%.

Long will keep his District 61B House seat with 84% of the vote after defeating Republican challenger Lisa Pohlman, who received 16%.

Rep. Hodan Hassan earned 90% of the

vote to stay in District 62A, defeating Republican Arjun Kataria.

And in District 62B, DFL incumbent Rep. Aisha Gomez received 91% of the vote to beat Republican Ross Tenneson.

In the Minnesota Supreme Court race, Thissen won 59% of the vote, while challenger Michelle MacDonald received 41% of the vote.

Minneapolitans decisively approved two referendum questions. One relates to the timing of redistricting and elections, and the other requires that elections for vacated council and mayoral seats take place on state-approved election days.

Kingfield resident Mary Parker and South Uptown resident Karen Casanova demonstrate on the 38th Street Bridge on Election Day. Photo by Michelle Bruch

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PAGE B2

Vol. 31, No. 21 October 15–28, 2020 southwestjournal.com

The 2040 plan’s code switch

INSIDE BRASA

Rotisserie opens in East Harriet A4

HOLY LIVING

‘A very heavy lift’

Minneapolis brings 2040 plan for more housing into the zoning code

By Michelle Bruch

Students with disabilities, families navigate new reality

Church-toapartment plan approved in South Uptown A6

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION

School Board candidates sPEAK AT FORUMS A9

VOICES FROM THE PANDEMIC

Virtual classes, therapy and reading and math practice greet 10-year-old Katy Gerster each school day. Photo

by Isaiah Rustad

By Nate Gotlieb

Inside of her Linden Hills home, Katy Gerster, a 10-year-old with moderate intellectual disabilities, logs in to her Google Chromebook each weekday for real-time virtual classes at Lyndale Community School.

Katy’s mom, Stephanie Gerster, has taken pains to make it easier for Katy to focus, covering pictures on the walls and building bins into which she can place her work. But it’s still been difficult. Internet outages have derailed entire days, Gerster said, and supervision is important for keeping Katy on track, even with her teachers guiding her virtually over Google Meet.

“The second there’s a glitch, all bets are off,” Gerster said. “I know this stuff happens at school, but I’m just me. … I just get to be the bad guy all of the time, and that doesn’t help anybody.”

SEE STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES / PAGE A15

Stories from local residents A10

OUTDOOR MUSIC

New Bakken exhibit hopes to Spark innovation

SEE 2040 PLAN / PAGE A12

Bde Maka Ska museum reopens after summer restoration

Lawns, sidewalks become pandemic concert halls B1

By Andrew Hazzard

SIDEBAR AT SURDYK’S

Cafe offers imaginative spin on familiar fare B6

A year after the adoption of the Minneapolis 2040 plan, which upzones much of the city to hold more people, Minneapolis is ready to codify the plan into building standards.

The City Council already introduced triplexes to single-family neighborhoods and started phasing in affordable housing contributions from new apartments with 20+ units.

Now they’re moving on to details like the scale of a new triplex, the amount of space a building can occupy on a lot and a building’s setback from the property line.

Thousands of people have weighed in on the 2040 plan, and now the city is looking for a little more feedback. One question relates to a handful of “premiums” developers must chip in to build bigger than what’s mapped in the 2040 plan. Premiums could include affordable units, a grocery store or outdoor public space. The premiums are meant to benefit the surrounding community and closely align with the city’s adopted values, and eligible projects would stand on blocks that allow three or more stories.

“This allows the city to ask for things they can’t require in the zoning code,” said Sam Rockwell, president of the Planning Commission. “Through the premiums, we are saying yes, it is worth having a higher building, a taller building, to get a grocery store. It is worth having a taller building to have it be close to a net-zero building. It is worth having a taller building to have on-site affordable housing.”

For example, the St. Louis-based developer LOCAL Ventures wants to build a 14-story, 402-unit building at 1301 W. Lake St. next to the shopping center formerly known as Calhoun Square. The 2040 plan allows up to 10 stories in this “Transit 10” zone. In order to reach 14 stories, the developer would need to contribute at least two premiums — receiving two extra stories per premium in this district — maxing out at 15 stories, which is the height limit of the next zone, “Transit 15.”

Children use a computer to create music on the Bakkenspiel, part of the new Spark exhibit at the newly renovated Bakken Museum. Submitted photo

A new exhibit at the recently renovated Bakken Museum explores the cycle of inspiration and innovation between nature, pop culture and technology by allowing visitors to create their own music, movies, images and more.

“We essentially view innovation as a creative process, and a creative process needs inspiration,” said Bakken Museum President and CEO Michael Sanders. “We think of it as a loop.”

Spark, the West Maka Ska museum’s newest exhibit, allows visitors to explore that loop with interactive elements ranging from code breaking in a phone booth to creating unique animated stories.

SEE BAKKEN MUSEUM / PAGE A14

The owner of a century-old, 13-bedroom building in Lowry Hill at 1820 Girard Ave. S. will add a fourth basement-level unit, a change approved under the 2040 plan.

Photo by Michelle Bruch

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Southwest Journal November 12–25, 2020

THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

Take it outside.

Or inside.

By Anne Noonan

Bundle up. Grab a scarf. Or … stay home and log on. 2020 is anything but normal. The usual in-person concerts and elbow-to-elbow events aren’t happening in the same way, and things change every week (check your event before you go, just in case). But before you write off the season thinking there’s nothing going on, take a look at this list. It’s a grab bag of holiday or wintry activities held either outside or virtually.

Whether you choose to put on your snowsuit or your slippers, or a little of each, here’s to your happiness and health this holiday season!

MARKETS & SHOPPING TEXTILE CENTER’S HOLIDAY GALLERY SHOP 2020 Browse the works of over 100 artists, and surprise someone on your gift list this year with a one-of-a-kind fiber art gift. Textile Center is dedicating its 2020 Holiday Gallery Shop to celebrating the richness and diversity of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of color) fiber artists in its expanded retail shop throughout November and December. While you’re there, view (virtually) the current “We Are the Story” exhibitions through Dec. 24. Purchases can be shipped or picked up curbside.

When: Nov. 5-Dec. 24 Where: Shop at textilecentermn.org/shop; optional curbside pickup at 3000 University Ave. SE. View virtual exhibitions at textilecentermn.org/ wearethestory Info: textilecentermn.org, facebook.com/ textilecentermn, 436-0464

SAFE HANDS RESCUE FUR BALL GALA VIRTUAL SILENT AUCTION Just in time for the holiday season, this silent auction features an assortment of unique items to bid on, with the feel-good vibes of helping some pups in need. All proceeds go to Safe Hands Animal Rescue, whose mission is to save and improve the lives of companion animals.

When: Monday-Sunday, Nov. 9-15 Where: Bid at safehandsrescue.org/event/fall-silentauction Info: safehandsrescue.org, facebook.com/ safehandsrescue. Purchases will be picked up curbside on Saturday, Nov. 21; details given at time of purchase.

BACHMAN’S FARMERS’ MARKET ON LYNDALE Shop outdoors in the parking lot on a one-way route through socially distanced vendors to stock up on produce, treats, crafts and gifts. Hosted by the St. Paul Farmers’ Market, this fresh-air shopping experience features the goods of local farmers, bakers and artisans.

All food items are take-out only, and limited numbers of visitors are allowed into the market at one time.

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14 Where: Bachman’s, 6010 Lyndale Ave. S. Info: tinyurl.com/bachmans-market, facebook.com/ bachmanmn, 861-7600

JULMARKNAD ON-SITE WEEKENDS It’s a nod to Sweden (where holiday markets happen outdoors) that this lively event at the American Swedish Institute will feature handcraft artists outside in the courtyard, as well as a full online experience. Explore the calendar of shopping options — each weekend features different outdoor artisans — and plot your holiday approach. Don’t miss the 30-plus artist vendors online or the unique livestreamed artist panels happening on Dec. 5.

When: Outdoor Julmarknad: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. SaturdaySunday, Nov. 14-Dec. 20; online experience ongoing Where: Browse at asimn.org or in person at the American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Ave. Info: asimn.org, 612-871-4907. Admission: $6-12.

Register at tinyurl.com/y5pm5582. Shopping is available with museum admission. Tickets available three weeks before the date listed.

VIRTUAL SHOPPER SERVICE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Arc’s Value Village offers a complimentary shopping service where a style expert hears what you’re looking for, finds 50-60 items for you and then reviews the possibilities with you in a scheduled Zoom call. If you like something and want to purchase it, you can have it

HOLIDAY GLASS ART SALE Stumped on a gift idea? Consider colorful, handcrafted glass. Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts offers an online gallery of pieces designed and made by both staff and member artists. Selection includes housewares and gifts, functional items, sculptural objects and jewelry. Purchases can be shipped or picked up curbside.

When: Ongoing Where: Shop at mnglassart.org/marketplace; optional curbside pickup at 2213 Snelling Ave. Info: mnglassart.org, facebook.com/foci.mcga, 759-8476

shipped to you (for a small fee) or pick it up curbside at one of their locations.

When: Ongoing; appointments arranged at sign-up Where: Sign up at arcsvaluevillage.org/shop/personalshopping-service; optional curbside pickup at any of their three locations Info: arcsvaluevillage.org, facebook.com/ arcsvaluevilage. Locations: 6528 Penn Ave., S., Richfield; 10546 France Ave. S., Bloomington; 2751 Winnetka Ave. N., New Hope. Free. Small shipping fee.

No minimum purchase required.

SEE HOLIDAY / PAGE B2

B2 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com FROM HOLIDAY / PAGE B1

NORTHERN CLAY CENTER’S HOLIDAY EXHIBITION This online market features pots, ceramic jewelry and handmade clay tools from over 70 NCC gallery artists.

Special 2020 holiday mugs include the artists’ favorite recipes. When you use curbside pickup on Sunday, Nov. 15, you get a free clay project; then bring it back to them for firing, and they’ll have it ready for you to pick up curbside

by Friday, Dec. 11. All online purchases can be shipped or picked up curbside, too.

When: Nov. 15-Jan. 3 Where: Shop at nccshop.org; optional curbside pickup at 2424 Franklin Ave. E. Info: northernclaycenter.org, facebook.com/ northernclaycenter, 339-8007. Complimentary gift wrapping; donations accepted.

SHOP AND SHINE WITH THE FITTING ROOM Is there someone on your list who likes locally designed and produced gifts? Browse online through the curated selection at this new-ish (opened June 2018) boutique.

The Fitting Room is making things merry throughout November and December, offering free shipping with online purchases, complimentary gift wrapping when requested and a special extra: a gift with every purchase.

Choose from clothing, jewelry, hats, leather handbags and bath and body treats like essential oils.

When: Ongoing; holiday extras throughout November and December Where: Shop at thefittingroommpls.com/shop; optional curbside pickup at 316 W. 38th St. Info: thefittingroommpls.com, facebook.com/ thefittingroommpls, 345-7391.

CRAFT BASH 2020 An extension of the annual, in-person event of the same name, Craft Bash 2020 offers an online marketplace featuring the handmade goods of 70-100 diverse artists from across the country. Besides doing some serious holiday gift shopping, you can connect to workshops and studio tours being held by artists.

When: Nov. 16-Dec. 6. Early-access shopping for members: Monday-Tuesday, Nov. 16-17.

Where: Shop at shop.craftcouncil.org Info: craftcouncil.org, facebook.com/craftcouncil.

THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE Shipping is offered directly to the consumer and included in the price for all items. For furniture or other large items, pallet shipping will be arranged with the artist.

PLYMOUTH ARTS FAIR An annual event that’s usually held in person, the Plymouth Arts Fair this year is showcasing original art online for purchase — just in time for the holiday giftgiving season. Peruse paintings, photography, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, clothing/accessories and household items made by local and regional artists. Plus, check out the schedule of livestreamed artist talks and demonstrations.

When: Nov. 20-Dec. 11 Where: Shop at plymouthmn.gov/artsfair Info: 763-509-5225. Delivery or curbside pickup of purchased items varies by artist; further details on website.

THE FOUNDRY HOME GOODS That Christmas tree isn’t going to decorate itself. Search “ornaments” on the website of this light, bright home goods store, and you’ll discover little critters and colorful cuties for every branch. Explore more on the site, and you’ll find builtto-last pieces — both small and large — that blend beauty and function. Go with traditional online shopping or use their curbside pickup option through the holiday season.

When: Ongoing Where: Shop at thefoundryhomegoods.com; optional curbside pickup at 322 W. 48th St. Info: thefoundryhomegoods.com, facebook.com/ thefoundryhomegoods. 333-8484. Orders may be placed by phone as well.

WOMEN’S ART FESTIVAL

NEMAA HOLIDAY SHOP A fun and interesting way to see creations by local artists, the Holiday Shop is also a place to find a special gift for a loved one or buy something to freshen up your own home. Explore the works of hundreds of artists and up to 40 galleries. Best known for producing Art-A-Whirl, the Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association has over 800 members and strives to connect art and artists to people, locally and beyond the Twin Cities.

When: Nov. 28-Dec. 31.

Where: Shop at nemaa.org Info: nemaa.org, facebook.com/nemaamn, 788-1679.

Delivery or curbside pickup of purchased items varies by artist; further details at time of purchase.

And the show goes on! This yearly art festival is going virtual, showcasing and selling online the artwork of close to 50 women plus offering live-chats with artists, interviews and demonstrations. Each artist will have a virtual booth, and live music sets will be streamable throughout the day. Register ahead of the festival date as a guest to receive a reminder email so you don’t forget the date.

When: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Shop at tinyurl.com/womens-art-fest Info: womensartfestival.com, facebook.com/ womensartfestival. Delivery of purchased items varies by artist.

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THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE NORTHEAST FARMERS MARKET WINTER MARKET

CLARABEL VINTAGE & ANTIQUES Wander through the online photos of this charming vintage and antiques store. A unique item of jewelry or home decor or a fascinating piece of history awaits as a gift for yourself or someone else. Orders may be placed over the phone and arranged for curbside pickup (limited delivery available within Southwest Minneapolis).

Put on your winter gear (and maybe an extra scarf) and do some shopping outdoors. Support local vendors and artisans by buying household must-haves or gifts for the season from this market that has served the community for two decades.

When: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 Where: 629 2nd St. NE (St. Boniface Catholic Church parking lot) Info: northeastmarket.org, facebook.com/ northeastfarmersmarket, 406-8794

When: Ongoing, with more items shown online through Thursday, Dec. 31 Where: View at clarabelvintage.com; optional curbside pickup at 3018 W. 50th St. Info: clarabelvintage.com, facebook.com/ clarabelvintage, 203-8990. To purchase items: call, text or email clarabelvintage@ gmail.com to arrange payment by phone, PayPal or Venmo.

EVERETT & CHARLIE GALLERY Browse online to view a kaleidoscope of art options at this Linden Hills gallery. From smaller pieces (jewelry, a pint glass or a miniature print) to larger art forms like paintings, mixed-media or a leather tote, you may find some “wow” gifts for those on your list this year. Call the gallery to inquire about specific pieces and to arrange payment and curbside pickup.

When: Ongoing Where: Browse at instagram.com/everett.and.charlie; curbside pickup at 2720 W. 43rd St. Info: everettandcharlie.com, facebook.com/ everettandcharlie, 991-7228

MINNESOTA STATE FAIR ONLINE MARKETPLACE Dream of sunny summer days and the Great Minnesota Get-Together when you shop the online marketplace featuring vendors from the Minnesota State Fair. Besides finding things for yourself or checking things off your gift list, you’ll also support a variety of sellers. Use the searchable hub to filter by category or keyword, or just relax and browse — just like you would at the fair.

When: Ongoing Where: mnstatefair.org/fair-finder/shops Info: mnstatefair.org, facebook.com/ minnesotastatefair, 651-288-4400. Delivery of purchased items varies by artist.

SUN STREET BREADS Rustic bread, pastries and pies might be the extra comfort needed to make Turkey Day a little cozier this year. Plan to order about two weeks ahead for curbside

southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 B3

pickup the day before Thanksgiving. Then take a look at the Holiday & Seasonal tab on the website to start dreaming about gingerbread, wild rice cranberry rolls, boxed cookie assortments and more. Purchases can be picked up curbside.

When: Ongoing. Hours: 6:30 a.m-2 p.m. TuesdaySunday, plus 5-8 p.m. Thursdays Where: Sun Street Breads, 4600 Nicollet Ave. S. Info: sunstreetbreads.com, facebook.com/ sunstreetbreads, 354-3414

KINOKO KIDS HOLIDAY SHOPPING AND GIFT WRAP Browse online for colorful, quality toys and other fun stuff for kids at Kinoko. The online selection has easy categories like stocking stuffers for big kids, little ones or baby, and owners Erika and Tammy can tip you off to ideas based on age and other traits. For the holiday season, they’ll gift wrap any item for $1 (to cover the app they use) in a festive, peppy way. Purchases can be shipped or picked up curbside.

When: Ongoing Where: Shop at kinokokids.com; optional curbside pickup at 3803 Grand Ave. S. Info: kinokokids.com, facebook.com/kinokokids, 5455741. Free shipping with minimum order. Curbside pickup hours listed on website.

INGEBRETSEN’S CHRISTMAS GIFTS Click “Christmas” on Ingebretsen’s online marketplace, and you’ll find cards, textiles, table decor, tree ornaments and lots of the cheery Swedish character called a tomte.

Explore even more categories on the site, and you can probably check off your whole holiday gift list. Skål!

When: Ongoing Where: Shop ingebretsens.com/shop/christmas; optional curbside pickup at 1601 E. Lake St. Curbside pickup varies by item Info: ingebretsens.com, facebook.com/ingebretsens, 729-9333. Standard shipping rates apply to online purchases.

FRANK & ERNEST MARKETS Shop ingredients from small, family-owned farms while staying safe by purchasing online. Have your goods delivered to your doorstep, shipped or brought to your car door for curbside pickup. Their multivendor marketplace continues through the winter, with hundreds of sellers and thousands of foods. Especially fun for the holidays? The cookie section of the website.

When: Ongoing Where: Shop at frankandernestmarkets.com; optional curbside pickup at Settergren’s Ace Hardware, 2813 W. 43rd St. Info: frankandernestmarkets.com, facebook.com/ frankanderniempls.

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THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

FROM HOLIDAY / PAGE B3

ROCK PAPER SCISSORS HOLIDAY MUSIC BUNDLES Gift the music fan in your life a bundle put together by music buyer Jason — including three of his favorite Christmas albums — at 10% off plus complimentary gift wrap. Other great wish-list items from this artistic store include art goods, books, handcrafted jewelry, clothing and gifts — most made in the U.S.A. Rock Paper Scissors also offers private Zoom art classes, where they deliver or ship the material kits and can customize the class topics.

When: Ongoing Where: Shop at rockpaperscissorsgoods.com/shop; optional curbside pickup at 2403 Lyndale Ave. S. Info: rockpaperscissorsgoods.com, facebook.com/ rockpaperscissorsgoods, 823-0269. Purchases can be shipped or picked up curbside. During the holiday season, free local delivery (within five miles) for purchases over $50. Music bundles should be ordered a week in advance.

THE STORE AT MIA Support the Minneapolis institute of Art while finding unique and chic gifts for the loved ones on your list. Peruse holiday merchandise and make purchases online for ease and safety. Find art tools, cards, activities, jewelry and a mouthwatering selection of cookbooks.

When: Ongoing Where: Shop at shop.artsmia.org Info: artsmia.org, facebook.com/ artsmia, 2400 3rd Ave. S., 870-3000 Courtesy of Mia

ACTIVITIES HOLIDAYS AT MINNESOTA AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MUSEUM Take a virtual tour to view handcrafted mannequin Christmas trees created by Alicia Smiley. Reflecting Black history, art and culture, these uniquely designed trees will later be auctioned online with proceeds going to support the museum. Mark your calendar, too, for a virtual children’s story time session with author Timi Bliss reading her book “In Search of the Gingerbread Man.” Extra fun: She follows the reading by baking gingerbread cookies with her granddaughter, an award-winning pastry chef.

When: Tree exhibit: Nov. 21-Dec. 5. Virtual book reading: viewable starting Dec. 1.

Where: Virtual at maahmg.org or on Facebook at tinyurl.com/y2baz2fe Info: Questions: info@maahmg.org

CARRIAGE RIDES The sound of the hooves, the nostalgia of a slower time … a carriage ride along the cobblestones of Main Street lets you see the skyline of Minneapolis in a different way.

Rides are 30 or 60 minutes and run along the river in the North Loop area.

When: Year-round Where: All rides start and end at The Nicollet Island Inn, 96 Merriam St. Info: thehitchingcompany.com, facebook.com/ thehitchingcompany, 338-7777. Prices start at $72.

EN PLEIN AIR AVANT L’HIVER Pick an event that sounds parfait (perfect) to you in this monthlong series, the name of which means “Outdoors Before Winter.” The Alliance Française Mpls./St.Paul’s lineup includes a French breakfast (Nov. 14), a Marché de Noël for holiday shopping (Dec. 5), a wine tasting, a trivia night, an outdoor movie night with raclette (French cheese tradition), live music and more. The final event will be their annual Fête d’Hiver winter celebration (Dec. 12). Propane heaters and tents will offer coverage and warmth; all events are held outside. To get some

shopping done in the meantime, browse their online boutique for French-themed gifts and more (curbside pickup available).

When: Nov. 14-Dec. 13: varying dates. Check Events tab on website for details. Social distancing and masks required.

Where: Alliance Française Mpls./St.Paul, 227 Colfax Ave. N. Info: afmsp.org, facebook.com/afmsp, 332-0436.

Tickets vary by event.

THE SPIRIT OF WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Dress warm for this outdoor experience — there’s lots to do! Stroll through 20 acres of illuminated grounds including an angel garden, a trellis trail of lights in the vineyard, a children’s maze with Frosty the Snowman, Nana’s Gingerbread House and a life-sized creche. Santa’s there most nights too, plus live llamas in a petting pen, tractor rides and s’mores by the campfire (s’mores kits available for purchase). The Angel Christmas Market has fire pits to take off the chill during holiday shopping, and an outdoor bar with a heated seating area lets you enjoy the star of the show: the wine.

When: Nov. 17-Jan. 2. 4:30-8 p.m WednesdayThursday; 4:30-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 4:30-8 p.m.

Sunday. Tuesdays: Private groups only.

Where: The Winery at Sovereign Estate, 9950 North Shore Road, Waconia Info: tinyurl.com/spirit-of-winter, 952-446-9957.

Tickets: $7.50; free for kids 4 and under. All tickets must be pre-purchased online. Visit time limited to 2 hours.

MULTI-USE LIGHTED WINTER TRAIL Bring your own skis, fat-tire bike or snowshoes — or try skijoring or winter walking — to enjoy this multi-use recreational trail that meanders through Brookview Golf Course. Added in 2019 are cross-country ski grooves and solar LED lights along the trail to allow use past sunset.

The trail is 6-8 feet wide, relies upon natural snow and is groomed 3-4 days per week.

When: Open for use when natural snow is present Where: Brookview Golf & Lawn Bowling, 316 Brookview Pkwy. S., Golden Valley Info: brookviewgolf.com/winter-recreation/trails, goldenvalleymn.gov/recreation, 763-512-2345. Free.

THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

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BUCKTHORN WREATH MAKING How to dress to keep warm but still be artistic … fingerless gloves, anyone? You’ll create a unique buckthorn wreath to decorate for the holidays, and also learn about buckthorn removal and management. A warm fire nearby, plus hot cocoa and tea, will keep things humming. Wreath-making materials provided. Class held outside, for ages 18 and up.

When: 5:30–6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20 Where: Richardson Nature Center, 8737 E. Bush Lake Rd., Bloomington Info: threeriversparks.org, facebook.com/ threeriversparkdistrict, 763-694-7676. Fee: $16.

Register at tinyurl.com/y2nn68es. Reservations required one week prior. Participants ages 21plus are welcome to bring their own wine or beer.

Richardson Nature Center also hosts free Family Fun Days 1-3 p.m. Sundays (no registration needed).

WINTER DISC GOLF AND OUTDOOR PUB CURLING This might be the season to try something new outside. Beginners or casual curlers are welcome to rent out one of four lanes available for outdoor pub curling — synthetic ice, no sweepers. Or try disc golf: It’s fully installed on the two 18-hole courses of Brookview’s golf course.

When: Disc golf course open 7 days/week; outdoor pub curling lanes available by rental Where: Brookview Golf & Lawn Bowling, 316 Brookview Parkway S., Golden Valley Info: brookviewgolf.com/winter-recreation, 763-512-2300. Disc golf: free. Fee for outdoor pub curling: $15/hour.

SANTA & ALBERT’S ‘CHRISTMAS MAGIC MISCHIEF’ Bachman’s tradition of a holiday play at their Lyndale Avenue location continues this year, virtually. All ages are welcome to watch online as “Christmas Magic Mischief” unfolds live on Saturday mornings. Each week offers a new chapter of the story plus the chance to interact with Santa and Albert. Kids can also download an activity at bachmans.com/Santa, or email santa@ bachmans.com to tell Santa, Albert and Sprinkles what they’re doing to help fill the Christmas Magic Tank.

On Christmas Eve, visit Bachman’s’ Facebook and Instagram pages for a special surprise.

When: 10 a.m. Saturdays, Nov. 21-Dec. 19

REINDEER RUN Challenge yourself to a holiday run and sign up for this annual tradition — this time, in virtual form. Pick where and when you run: Paths, treadmills and parkways are good bets. Register for the race length that’s right for you, and don’t forget to pick up your finisher medal and long-sleeve tee at the end.

When/where: Runners choose their own date and location Info: reindeerrun.com, facebook.com/reindeerrun5k. Fee: $35. Registration open through Dec. 31.

Where: Virtual at Bachman’s North Pole Christmas Cam on Facebook Live: facebook.com/BachmansMN or IG TV: instagram.com/shopbachmans Info: bachmans.com/workshops-and-events, 861-8818. Free.

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING AT SCHRAM HAUS Whether you have a beer before or after you ice skate is your call, but blending the two is bound to be fun. Schram Haus Brewery is turning their parking lot into an outdoor ice rink on the bluff overlooking downtown Chaska. Flagship beers include the Cane Fighter IPA, Brickyard Blonde and more. Stop by their sister location — Schram Vineyards and Brewery in Waconia — for a glass of wine by heaters and fire pits in their semi-enclosed outdoor pavilion.

When: Ongoing; check website to confirm Where: Schram Haus Brewery, 3700 Chaska Blvd., Chaska Info: schramhausbrewery.com, facebook.com/ schramhaus, 952-500-8085

SLEDDING AND SKATING Hit the hills for some great coasts downward at Scheid or Wesley Park — sledding has a way of making everyone smile! Or, bring your skates and use the regular or hockey rinks. Outdoor benches available.

When: Ongoing, snow permitting Where: Scheid Park, 1856 Toledo Ave. N.; Wesley Park, 8305 Wesley Drive, Golden Valley Info: goldenvalleymn.gov/recreation, 763-512-2345. Free.

WINTER BIRDS OF WOOD LAKE Beginners or experienced birders — all are welcome to join this hike to spot migrating birds and those settling in for the winter. Learn how our feathered friends use strategies to make it through a Minnesota winter. Expect to see up to 20 species at this 150-acre natural area that will celebrate 50 years next year. And, for another day: Wood Lake Nature Center also offers cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals for a 1.8-mile trail loop.

When: 3-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22 SEE HOLIDAY / PAGE B6

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THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

B6 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

SEVER’S HOLIDAY LIGHTS

FROM HOLIDAY / PAGE B5

Where: Wood Lake Nature Center, 6710 Lake Shore Drive, Richfield Info: woodlakenaturecenter.org, facebook.com/ woodlakenaturecenter, 861-9365. Fee: $5; free for members. Register at tinyurl.com/y67wauzy.

Binoculars (sanitized between each use) available for loan. Entire event is outside.

Load up the vehicle and head south to this drive-through display of over 1 million lights synchronized to festive music.

Partnering with Epic Light Shows, Sever’s Holiday Lights creates a merry and magical atmosphere with new additions this year including more static lights and a giant yeti.

When: Nov. 26-Jan. 3. Sunday-Thursday, 5-9 p.m; Friday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m. Open on holidays.

Where: 3121 150th St. W., Shakopee Info: seversholidaylights.com, facebook.com/ seversholidaylights, 952-270-6293. Tickets: $7/ person or $25/vehicle. Vehicles with eight or more people: $40. Tickets may be purchased online or onsite. Toys for Tots donations accepted.

OPT OUTSIDE

CAMPFIRE COOKOUT: THANKSGIVING EDITION Gather the hearty gang together for a unique dining experience in the outdoors. Cook and eat “traditional” Thanksgiving dishes over the fire during this wilderness feast.

When: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22 Where: Baker Outdoor Learning Center, 4001 County Road 24, Maple Plain Info: threeriversparks.org, facebook.com/ threeriversparkdistrict, 763-694-7856. Fee: $12.

Ages 3-15: $8. Children under 3: free. Register at tinyurl.com/y5wb8oh7. Reservations required two days prior. Participants 13 and younger must be accompanied by a registered adult from the same household.

Photo courtesy of Three Rivers Park District

This annual, self-guided family event has a new twist for 2020: It’s being held in three locations. Stroll along the Ice Age Trail, mingle with a variety of ancient critters and use your own GPS or phone app to search for themed geocaches. Solve stories and riddles to find the Mighty Musk Ox, Mammoth or Mastodon — hidden somewhere in each park. Choose challenges based on age and experience level. Visit another day to enjoy the trails and rentals for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and kick sleds, plus a 12-mile trail for mountain biking.

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27. Riddles posted on the Dakota County Forever Wild Facebook page at noon daily, Nov. 25-27: facebook.com/ dakotacountyparks Where: Lebanon Hills Regional Park, 860 Cliff Road, Eagan; Thompson County Park, 360 Butler Ave. E., West St. Paul; Whitetail Woods Regional Park, 17100 Station Trail, Farmington.

Info: co.dakota.mn.us/parks, facebook.com/ dakotacountyparks, 651-554-6530. Free. Register at tinyurl.com/y5f9juwq.

ONLINE CLAY KITS: MITTEN BOWL OR DESSERT TRAY Make a winter-themed clay project at home. Participants receive an instructional video link to guide them in using hand-building techniques to create and decorate a unique ceramic object. Choose from the textured mitten bowl (ages 3-10 with adult help) or the evergreen dessert tray (ages 11-plus). Works are returned to Silverwood Park for firing and will be ready for pickup in early January.

When: Register by Saturday, Nov. 28. Kits can be

picked up starting Tuesday, Dec. 1.

Where: At-home project with virtual instruction Info: threeriversparks.org, facebook.com/ threeriversparkdistrict, 763-694-7707. Fee: $10. Kits include clay, underglazes and tools. Participants receive instructions on kit pickup, project drop-off and the final pickup date.

HOLIDAY QUEST FOR TEENS Bring a friend or meet new ones, and bring your mobile device. You’ll discover holiday traditions of the past and present as you navigate trails, exploring historic buildings using virtual tours and digital tools. Buildings at The Landing — representing 19th-century life in Minnesota — are laid out as a timeline from the pre-territorial era through the late 1800s. Class is for teens ages 13-19.

When: 3-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28 Where: The Landing, 2187 Hwy. 101 E., Shakopee Info: threeriversparks.org, facebook.com/ threeriversparkdistrict, 763-694-7784. Fee: $8.

Register at tinyurl.com/y5f5enes.

HOLLY TROLLEY TALK WITH SANTA Visits with the Holly Trolley Santa are still happening this year — virtually! Kids can chat with Santa (via Zoom call), who’ll be at his North Pole workshop, ready to hear their holiday wish lists or other secrets of the season. Snap a picture or screenshot of the Santa session for the memory books.

When: Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 28-29 and Dec. 5-6; sign up for time slots at registration Where: Participate in Zoom call (link arranged when you register) Info: Register at trolleyride.org. Free. Donations accepted to the Minnesota Streetcar Museum. For questions email rod.eaton@trolleyride.org.

TURKEY HIKE Spend some time outside hiking with a naturalist at Eastman Nature Center, nestled in the sugar maple floodplain forest of Rush Creek. Test your skills at spotting turkey signs. Leave bird seed to see if any turkey comes. Eastman Nature Center has miles of hiking and snowshoeing trails and a newly constructed central building.

When: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29 Where: Eastman Nature Center, 13351 Elm Creek Road, Dayton

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THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE Info: threeriversparks.org, facebook.com/ threeriversparkdistrict, 763-694-7700. Free. Register at tinyurl.com/yxad9kqq.

BUNKER PARK STABLE SLEIGH RIDES Is a horse-drawn sleigh ride on your holiday checklist? Get your red scarf, bring your jingle bells and make it happen.

Rides are 30-45 minutes on your choice of antique sleigh, red bench sleigh or flatbed. Pandemic alterations include limits on number of people, masks for ages 6 and up and no straw in sleighs. Cozy up before or after when you rent a fully tended bonfire pit with table for bring-your-own treats.

DRIVE BY NATIVITY Keep safe and cozy in your car while you experience the Christmas story. Drive into the church parking lot and tune your car radio to hear the story of Christ’s birth and sing a carol. See the holy family, angels and magi … and maybe an animal or two! The church will also host an outdoor Christmas Eve service with a bonfire in their parking lot — all are welcome.

When: 5-6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 Where: Lake Harriet United Methodist Church, 4901 Chowen Ave. S. Info: lakeharrietumc.org, facebook.com/Lake-HarrietUnited-Methodist-Church, 926-7645. Free. Register in advance at lakeharrietumc.org for one of the 15-minute slots. Donations accepted for the Joyce Uptown Food Shelf. Enter the parking lot from the Chowen Ave. entrance.

When: Ongoing, snow permitting Where: 550 Bunker Lake Blvd., Andover Info: bunkerparkstable.com, facebook.com/ bunkerparkstable, 763-757-9445. Prices range, starting at $90. Fire pit 1-hour rental: $20.

U.G.L.Y. SWEATER DASH

MAKE & MINGLE: ‘MYSA’

You. Your ugly sweater. A rad selfie. Dig out that treasured sweater you made last year or create a new one to wear this year when you run your 5K dash in your favorite park.

Take a picture of yourself in your ugly sweater and share it on the city’s social media. Don’t forget your goodie bag with a medal and swag — pick it up or have it mailed to you. Now that’s good clean fun.

Embrace the winter solstice with art and nature activities inspired by the Swedish word “mysa,” meaning content and cozy. Pick up your at-home art kit — it includes all materials and instructions for completing an art project.

Optional: Stay for the outdoor event, which includes a candlelit trail, bonfire and hot chocolate. Ages 21 plus.

When: Sunday, Dec. 6 Where: Virtual (run on your own) Info: stlouispark.maxgalaxy.net, facebook.com/ stlouispark, 952-924-2540. Fee: $25 with pickup option; $35 for mail option. Registration deadline: Dec. 5 or when full. Swag bag pickup Dec. 7-13 at The Rec Center, 3700 Monterey Drive, St. Louis Park.

GINGERBREAD WONDERLAND Norway House’s annual holiday tradition returns in all of its cinnamon coziness, and for the first time ever, you can view it online. Keep your eyes out for Twin Cities landmarks as you take a virtual stroll through a village of candy-trimmed gingerbread buildings nestled in sparkly snow. Even sweeter: Pick your favorite and vote for the people’s choice on social media using #MyGingerbreadWonderland.

southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 B7

When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 Where: Silverwood Park, 2500 County Rd. E West, St. Anthony Info: threeriversparks.org, facebook.com/ threeriversparkdistrict, 763-694-7707. Fee: $15.

Attendees may bring adult beverages.

BE THE LIGHT WINTER SOLSTICE WALK Walk along a luminary-lit trail on the shortest night of the year as a way to remember people in the community struggling with mental illness or difficult situations. Light a candle to brighten the night and leave a message on the “be the light” art board.

When: Online viewing: Nov. 6-Jan. 2 Where: View at norwayhouse.org/gbw2020.

Info: norwayhouse.org, facebook.com/norwayhouse, 913 E. Franklin Ave., 871-2211. Free. Donations accepted.

When: 6-9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21 Where: Westwood Hills Nature Center, 8300 W. Franklin Ave., St. Louis Park Info: stlouispark.maxgalaxy.net, facebook.com/ WestwoodHillsNatureCenter, 952-924-2544. Free.

Advance registration required for choice of start times. Registration deadline: 5 p.m. the day of the event. No walk-ins permitted.

EXCELSIOR CHRISTKINDLSMARKT Prost! It’s the 15th year of this festival inspired by traditional German open-air Christmas markets. All outdoors, Christkindlsmarkt features live reindeer and llamas, Father and Mrs. Christmas, live music, magic shows and appearances by the “Christkind” (the golden angel). Food trucks include strudel, bratwursts and pierogis plus mini donuts, Wisconsin cheese, and good-as-gifts maple syrup and honey.

Sip a mug of hot glühwein or enjoy a beer while the kids talk to Father Christmas through a microphone (snap their photo from a safe distance). Multi-task and get some holiday shopping done with artisans who make jewelry, handmade hats, knives, cutting boards, leather totes and more.

When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Nov. 27-29 and Dec. 4-6. Final day hours are 10 a.m-3 p.m.

Where: Excelsior Commons, 135 Lake St., Excelsior Info: excelsiorchristmas.com, facebook.com/ excelsiorchristmas, 952-292-8898. Tickets: $5; free for ages 12 and under. Ticket prices reserve one hour of time. Reserve tickets at excelsiorchristmas.com/make-a-reservation.

SEE HOLIDAY / PAGE B8

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1 Two-wheelers 6 Haunted house sound 10 Stick a fork in 14 Standing at attention, say 15 Oscar winner Paquin 16 Soft drink nut 17 Big burger chain, literally?

20 Yale student 21 Homes for bears 22 Con jobs 23 __ strength: ability to withstand stretching 25 On the briny 27 “I Can’t Help Myself ” R&B group, literally?

32 Honors with a fancy party 35 “Wild Blue Yonder” mil. group 36 __ de Janeiro 37 Dutch cheese 38 Worker in a shaft 40 Curve in a road

66 Hair colorings

18 Puppy’s cry

45 Meditative martial art

67 Handy carryalls

19 Make __: employ

46 Restaurant in an Arlo Guthrie hit

24 Flower holder

41 Round Table title

DOWN

42 Locker room powder

1 Procreate

43 Walrus features

2 “Go, me!”

44 Many a sports car, literally?

3 Enter, as data

48 Floor space calculation

5 Small apartments

4 Cardio readout

49 Sticks around

6 Wall calendar : nail :: shopping list : __

53 Big rigs

7 Burden

56 Bowling targets

8 “__ further discussion?”

25 Semicircular cathedral area 26 Lead actor or actress 28 Postal scale unit 29 “__ bien!”

30 Sty cry 31 Snow pea holders 32 Come clean, with “up”

47 Fork prong 50 Discus or pole vault 51 Prompt, as a forgetful actor 52 Staircase divisions 53 “Wheel of Fortune” choice 54 German article

33 Falco of “The Sopranos”

55 Kind of drawing: Abbr.

34 Butler’s quarters?

56 Dijon dad

38 Female horse

59 Note-taking aid

11 Forum wear

39 “Casablanca” heroine

60 Aloof 61 __ Jima

64 Confess

12 High school reunion attendee, briefly

40 Town 42 Wasting few words

65 Classic grape soda

13 Howls at the moon

43 Sawbuck

57 Animal doc 58 Exec’s dressy suit, literally?

62 One of 12 in a foot 63 Farm size unit

9 Old horse 10 Airport porter

Crossword Puzzle SWJ 111220 4.indd 1

Crossword answers on page B9

11/10/20 3:23 PM

B8 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

FROM HOLIDAY / PAGE B7

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE ROC Kick off New Year’s Eve with a daytime ice skating session at this multi-use outdoor recreational facility. DJ Bob will spin the tunes with mix of songs to put smiles on faces on this final day of the year.

When: 3:15-6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31 Where: Recreation Outdoor Center, 3700 Monterey Drive, St. Louis Park Info: stlouispark.org/parks-rec, 952-924-2540. Free.

No registration required.

COCOA & COOKIES AT CORNELIA Glide into the new year! Bring your skates and stop by for outdoor ice skating on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy a free cookie and hot chocolate while quantities last.

When: 12-4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31 Where: Cornelia School Park outdoor ice rink, 7142 Cornelia Drive, Edina Info: edinamn.gov/249/Parks-Recreation, 952-8260367. Free. Register at edinamn.maxgalaxy.net/ BrowseActivities (search Hockey & Ice Skating).

ON STAGE TRAILER TRASH’S TRASHY LITTLE XMAS SHOW TWAS THE NIGHT: OUT OF THE BOX VIRTUAL Inspired by the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” by Clement Clarke Moore, this lively production brings holiday fun to the home front just when it’s needed!

Designed as an interactive cinematic radio broadcast to be watched by the whole family at home, it includes a Holiday Gift Box with the original poem, cocoa, popcorn, crafts, activities, and some surprises too — plus, a chance to have live story time with Santa directly from the North Pole (via Zoom).

When: Nov. 20-Jan.1 Where: Virtual at stagestheatre.org/twas-the-night Info: stagestheatre.org, facebook.com/ stagestheatrecompany, 952-979-1111. Tickets $85 per experience (4 people); $10 extra child. Self-paced viewing; select a two-week range.

JULETIDE ZOOMS WITH KARI TAURING Take an evening break to understand some of the traditions of Nordic ancestors through stories, songs, recipes and crafts. Explore the Old Norse version of the Yuletide calendar and how it relates to the solstice. Each Wednesday’s session covers a different topic, led by Kari Tauring, a Nordic folk musician, cultural educator, staff carrier and horn player.

When: 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays Nov. 25-Dec. 23 Where: Virtual at needfirewellness.com Info: karitauring.com/juletide-zooms-2020. Fee: $10 per session. Session descriptions list items needed if attendees plan to participate in making crafts alongside Tauring. More information: 289-0282.

FROG LEG BLACK FRIDAY CONCERT The day after Thanksgiving is for a lot of things: shopping, running a 5K, eating leftovers … and music! Get that livemusic vibe by joining fusion-sound band Frog Leg for their Black Friday livestream concert from The Hook and Ladder Theater and Lounge in Minneapolis.

When: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27 Where: Virtual at thehookmpls.com Info: froglegmusic.com, thehookmpls.com, 345-7166.

Tickets: $15; $5 off with code SWJHOLIDAY.

This was the year you were going to dress up (elf outfit and blinking hat) and join the jolly masses who love this show, wasn’t it? Well, you still can … just … from your living room! Hear the band perform their honky-tonk holiday tunes live from The Hook and Ladder Theater, while Trashy Santa reads clues for a downloadable, play-at-home bingo card. Their latest holiday CD, “Crazy For Xmas,” was brand spanking new last year and could make a good early gift for the friend you want to (virtually) party with for Trashy Little Xmas.

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12 Where: Virtual at thehookmpls.com Info: trailertrashmusic.com, thehookmpls.com, 345-7166. Tickets: $15; $5 off with code SWJHOLIDAY.

SARAH MORRIS & THE SOMETIMES ELVES 14TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOW Tune in to The Hook and Ladder’s livestream show with singer-songwriter Sarah Morris and her “Sometimes Elves” (usually called “The Sometimes Guys”). Whether you put your feet up for the show, or make holiday cookies alongside the musical entertainment, it’s guaranteed feel-good vibes.

When: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 Where: Virtual at thehookmpls.com Info: facebook.com/sarahmorris10, thehookmpls.com, 345-7166. Tickets: $15; $5 off with code SWJHOLIDAY.

AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY ADVENT VESPERS In the 41st year of this annual event, Augsburg University will present — this year, virtually — a holiday concert of music and liturgy, focusing on the theme of preparation and culminating in the joyful celebration of the Incarnation. A series of devotional and worship events online will happen throughout the week, leading up to the concert.

When: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 Where: Virtual at augsburg.edu/music/vespers Info: augsburg.edu/music/vespers, 330-1265. Free.

Donations accepted.

DAVINA & THE VAGABONDS Hear some deep-cover holiday tunes from this alwaysentertaining, vibrant group led by powerhouse Davina Sowers. Rolling Stone magazine says she “creates her own Americana mishmash — a little Amy Winehouseworthy neo-soul here, a little Great American Songbookinfluenced songcraft there.” Catch her group virtually from the Hook and Ladder Theater in Minneapolis, as part of their HookStreams online concerts.

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5 Where: Virtual at thehookmpls.com Info: davinaandthevagabonds.com, thehookmpls.com, 345-7166. Tickets: $15; $5 off with code SWJHOLIDAY.

WELCOME CHRISTMAS Behold the wonder of Christmas … for more than five decades, VocalEssence has welcomed Christmas with songs from past and present. This year, dust off your singing voice and join them in beloved carols to bring you into the Christmas spirit. Performed by the VocalEssence Chorus and Ensemble Singers, it will be conducted by Philip Brunelle and G. Phillip Shoultz, III. When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 or anytime afterward until June 30, 2021 Where: Virtual at vocalessence.org/event/concertwelcome-christmas-2020 Info: vocalessence.org, facebook.com/vocalessence, 547-1451. Tickets: $15 single streams. VocalEssence On Demand 2020–2021 subscriptions also available ($49/household).

I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS Tune in for this never-before-seen holiday special featuring Tonic Sol Fa and Top 5 artist Shaun Johnson & the Big Band Experience. Johnson will host each airing, which will be catered to a particular city, theater and local charity for a 60-minute show with guests, an interactive Q&A, and new songs from an upcoming album.

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10 Where: Virtual at tonicsolfa.com Info: tonicsolfa.com, ames-center.com, 952-895-4685.

Tickets: pay what you can. Limited to 200 tickets.

CHRISTMAS WITH CANTUS: LESSONS AND CAROLS FOR OUR TIME Weaving together poetry and song, this twopart program draws upon a British Christmas tradition started by the Choir of King’s College at the University of Cambridge. Enjoy classic carols such as “Silent Night” and “A La Nanita Nana,” as well as modern works. The concert will also feature Franz Biebl’s “Ave Maria,” continuing a cherished holiday tradition.

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 and 18.

Each concert is available on demand all weekend (for 48 hours).

Where: Website link sent to ticket holders after purchase at cantussings.org Info: cantussings.org, facebook.com/ cantussings, 435-0046. Tickets: $5 or pay what you can. The first weekend’s concert is part 1, lessons 1-5. The second weekend’s concert is part 2, lessons 6-9.

THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

southwestjournal.com / November 12–25, 2020 B9

JIM BRICKMAN COMFORT & JOY AT HOME A portion of each ticket purchased for this concert will benefit Hennepin Theatre Trust’s nonprofit mission — a way to support local live entertainment venues in this challenging time. Enjoy a Christmas concert from home, from Grammy-nominated songwriter and pianist Jim Brickman. Ticket tiers offer the chance to have a virtual meet-and-greet, visit an interactive Zoom room and more.

When: 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11 Where: Virtual at hennepintheatretrust.org Info: jimbrickman.com, hennepintheatretrust.org, 339-7007.

TALES FROM THE CHARRED UNDERBELLY OF THE YULE LOG Join Kevin Kling, Dan Chouinard and Simone Perrin for an evening of music, stories and seasonal hilarity. Known for his popular commentaries on National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered,” Kling delivers funny, heartfelt yarns of Midwestern family traditions. For this celebrated show, the wry tales take a holiday twist.

When: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13 Where: Virtual at stjoan.com Info: kevinkling.com, stjoan.com, 823-8205. Concert pre-recorded for this date and release.

BELFAST COWBOYS HOLIDAY PARTY Pour a Guinness or whiskey and kick back with this Twin Cities band that specializes in the music of Van Morrison.

With a repertoire of at least 100 Van Morrison songs, plus holiday tunes, the Cowboys will make sure your December evening is on point.

A VIRTUAL TELLING OF ‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19 Where: Virtual at thehookmpls.com Info: belfastcowboys.com, thehookmpls.com, 345-7166. Tickets: $15; $5 off with code SWJHOLIDAY.

Charles Dickens had a penchant for spreading holiday cheer by performing dramatic readings of his work “A Christmas Carol” to large crowds of devoted fans from London to Boston and beyond. In a year that would have brought this production to the stage for the 46th time, the Guthrie Theater is tipping its hat to Dickens by offering a virtual reading of this beloved ghost story by four local actors. Their hope: to make spirits bright while the stages are dark.

When: Dec. 19-31 Where: Virtual at tinyurl.com/guthrie-dickens Info: guthrietheater.org, facebook.com/guthrietheater, 377-2224. Tickets: $10 and up. This is not a recording of the Guthrie Theater’s stage production of “A Christmas Carol”; it is a newly conceived offering.

Ticket buyers may watch the pre-recorded program at their convenience Dec. 19-31.

WINTER CONCERT: MINNESOTA BOYCHOIR

WINTER SOLSTICE AT WISDOM WAYS: SONGS OF HOPE

Hear the magical voices of the Minnesota Boychoir as they celebrate the season. They’ll blend elements of previous holiday concerts with pieces unique to this year. The choir, through its 50-plus years, has performed with the Minnesota Orchestra, the Baltimore Symphony, the Prague Philharmonic and more.

Join Lumina Women’s Ensemble for an uplifting, hopeful respite on the darkest day of the year. The stunning setting of St. Catherine University’s Our Lady of the Presentation Chapel offers an acoustical platform for their radiant voices.

When: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20 Where: Virtual at wisdomwayscenter.org Info: facebook.com/luminawomensensemble. Tickets: $15. For questions, email info@wisdomwayscenter.org.

When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20 Where: Virtual at boychoir.org Info: boychoir.org, facebook.com/mnboychoir, 651-292-3219. Free.

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THE SOUTHWEST JOURNAL’S 2020 HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

B10 November 12–25, 2020 / southwestjournal.com

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612-924-9315

                   ALL YOUR REMODELING PROJECTS!

2nd Stories • Additions • Kitchens • Basements Baths • Attic Rooms • Windows

KEEP SOUTHWEST BEAUTIFUL.

Classifieds 1/31/14 10:44 AM

Local people.

Local references.

Tell them you saw their ad here!

the bag that came with your paper.

FIND A RECYCLING DROP-OFF SITE AT

plasticfilmrecycling.org

Thoughts or questions? Contact us at info@swjournal.com

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reuse or recycle

MN License #BC451256

612-861-0188  www.SylvestreMN.com  #BC001428

612-655-4961 hansonremodeling.com Lic #BC633225

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www.fusionhomeimprovement.com

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Create • Collaborate Communicate

11/10/20 4:14 PM 3/17/20 contractors 4:45 PM SWJ 2016 2cx1.5 filler.indd 4

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8/4/20 10:34 AM

Amazing Financing!

Up to 0% interest for 60 months (OAC)* Offer Ends 12/21/2020

Minnesota’s Original Plumbing & HVAC Contractors We’ve been taking care of the indoor comfort in Twin Cities homes for 137 years! Our certified technicians know from experience how critical it is to have a safe, reliable heating & cooling system because you never want to be without heat or cool air when you need it most!

Trade-In Discount .........................................................................................................................$600 Instant savings when you trade in your old system

Utility Rebates..............................................................................................................................$850 We handle all of the paperwork for qualifying rebates

10-Year Parts & Labor Warranty................................................................................................. $1,136 Free parts and labor warranty with the installation of a new system

FREE WiFi Thermostat ............................................................................................................... $1,063 We’ll install a Honeywell Prestige programmable thermostat

2 Year Home Care Club Maintenance Plan ....................................................................................$196 3 system checks each year, priority scheduling, special discounts

LIFETIME EQUIPMENT WARRANTY*

TOTAL $3,845

Is your heating system over 10 years old? Does it make strange noises, need frequent repairs, room temperatures feel uneven and utility bills are increasing? If the answer is “YES” ...this is the perfect time to consider an upgrade to the latest technology and energy efficient equipment. Don’t miss out on our 2020 CLOSE OUT. SAVE UP TO $3,845 in rebates and discounts when you schedule installation before December 21, 2020.

Our comfort advisor will meet in your home or virtually to inspect your system, evaluate your needs and present options best suited for ultimate comfort and performance. We guarantee you’ll be happy with our service! *Restrictions apply. Ask for details.

37960,37959

LEARN MORE. CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION.

(612) 888-8207 mcquillanbros.com

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11/6/20 2:35 PM