MCC Evening Book Club

Tuesday, July 9, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

RiverWest Social Room, 401 S 1st St

Join us to discuss Washington Black by Esi Edugyan. George Washington Black, or "Wash," an 11-year-old field slave on a Barbados sugar plantation, is terrified to be chosen by his master's brother as his manservant. To his surprise, the eccentric Christopher Wilde turns out to be a naturalist, explorer, inventor, and abolitionist. Soon Wash is initiated into a world where a flying machine can carry a man across the sky, where even a boy born in chains may embrace a life of dignity and meaning--and where two people, separated by an impossible divide, can begin to see each other as human. But when a man is killed and a bounty is placed on Wash's head, Christopher and Wash must abandon everything. What follows is their flight along the eastern coast of America, and, finally, to a remote outpost in the Arctic. What brings Christopher and Wash together will tear them apart, propelling Wash even further across the globe in search of his true self.  Listen here to an insightful interview by Fresh Air's Terry Gross with Esi Edugyan on Washington Black.

It's caffeine and camaraderie for the male members of MCC and guests! This group meets every other Thursday and is hosted by various members who get the conversation going. Please register by the Monday prior to Men's Coffee and Conversation. This week's host, MCC member Joel Kramer, will speak on "Contract Bridge: Great for Retirement or Any Time of Life."

MCC members sign up here; guests email MCC.

Meditation Circle

Tuesday, July 16 & 23, 9:30 - 10:30 am 

Mill City Quarter Club Room, 322 2nd St S

Mill City Commons members are invited to join in a weekly drop-in meditation hour. This is a time for self-guided meditation; if you're new to meditation, we'll provide a brief explanation to help you get started. Our hope is that meditating with each other may help each of our practices and create a shared energy among participants. Drop-in sessions are on Tuesdays from 9:30-10:30 am at Mill City Quarter, across the parking lot from Abiitan. An MCC member will be there to greet you at 9:30 am. Please register for sessions you plan to attend so we have an idea of how many to expect. All sessions are free.

MCC Annual Party

Tuesday, July 16, 5:00 - 7:30 pm

Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1200 Marquette Ave

Join us for one of MCC's most popular events of the year--the Annual Member Party! This year's party will take place in the Garden Room and Commons in the beautiful, light-filled new expansion at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Nicollet Mall. Happy hour starts at 5:00 pm with beverages, followed by a buffet of hearty hors d'oeuvres that will be available until 7:30 pm. While you're mingling with friends enjoy a slideshow with a year's worth of MCC photos. Free parking is available in Westminster's underground parking ramp; the ramp entrance is on Alice Rainville Place (the equivalent of 13th Street). Signage will direct you to Level 1 and the Garden Room. If you're walking, enter the church through the glass doors on Nicollet Mall and follow the signs in the lobby. This is an MCC members-only event.  RESERVATIONS DUE TODAY, JULY 9!

Current Events: A Conversation with Bill
Wednesday, July 17, 10:30 - 11:30 am

Winslow House Party Room, 100 2nd St SE

Current international news and U.S. foreign policy provide an endless trove of topics for learning and discussion. Retired foreign service officer and MCC member Bill Davnie will identify a topic in advance, although news can always lead us in a fresh direction. This month's topic: "Words matter, but power matters more. Let's start with Iran."

 

This ongoing program is held on the third Wednesday of the month. Topic ideas for each monthly gathering are welcome.

MCC Women Connect

Thursday, July 18, 10:00 - 11:30 am

Lourdes Square, 174 Bank St SE

At this month's MCC Women Connect, Beverly Fitzgerald will lead a discussion around the question, "Is it my imagination or are others treating me differently as I get older?" Family members, doctors, nurses, clerks-- they're often more helpful than necessary. When you hear, "How are you today, young lady?", do you find yourself flattered or annoyed? Is it ageism or kindness? Respect or condescension? How should one respond?

Lake of the Isles Walk
Friday, July 19, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Lake of the Isles, Bridge just west of E Lake of the Isles Pkwy & E Calhoun Pkwy

Join us for a walk around Lake of the Isles to learn more about the history of Minneapolis and its parks. Former history teacher Ben Olk will share stories and details about some of the stately houses around the lake. You'll hear about the people who designed, built and originally lived in them. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water for this approximately 3-mile walk. Meet at the bridge over the waterway to Bde Maka Ska at the southeast corner of Lake of the Isles (east of the Lake of the Isles dog park). See a map here.

MCC members sign up here.

Global Minnesota: Connecting Minnesota to the World

Wednesday, July 24, 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Minnesota Technology Center, 1100 Washington Ave S

Global Minnesota, a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization, has been promoting international understanding and engagement throughout the state for nearly 70 years. Earlier this year, former Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie became Global Minnesota's first new president in more than 20 years. Join us as Ritchie talks about his vision for the organization and the increasingly global character of our state. Among Global Minnesota's many educational initiatives is its management of the Great Decisions speaker directory used by discussion groups around the state, including MCC.

Table for 5

Thursday, July 25, 12:30 - 2:00 pm

Monte Carlo, 219 N 3rd Ave

If connecting with and getting to know other MCC members in a smaller, more intimate social setting interests you, this weekday lunch just might be for you! This month, join other MCC members for casual dining at the Monte Carlo. The meal is dutch treat. Space is limited, so register early!