June 4, 2019
Update from the Executive Director

Hello! I'm writing this week's update from the waiting room as my youngest daughter undergoes a medical procedure. Her surgeon just came out and told us that everything is stable and looking good. I am relieved and glad to share the news with my family and friends -- my community. I am also reflecting on the community that you have built in Mill City Commons.  Research shows that "people who have more social support tend to have better mental health, cardiovascular health, immunological functioning, and cognitive performance." 

We are all facing challenges, and w e hear all the time -- life is short, live each day like it's your last. It's easy to shrug that off and keep pushing through the day-to-day grind. Don't forget during rough times that we are here for you, and you are here for others! Take advantage of your membership in MCC; reach out and build connections. Check out the volunteer opportunities link to the right. If you're not a member, consider joining us! We'd love to support you and be supported by you. 

Engagement with MCC doesn't have to mean attending events. Take a moment to browse through our member directory, and give someone a call whom you haven't seen for a while. Check out your own member profile -- perhaps it's time for an update! 

Thanks for letting me be part of your community. 

Read on to find out what's coming up. Hope to see you soon! 

MILL CITY COMMONS: We learn. We share. We engage. We give.

~ Sara J.B. Foster
Rendezvous Readers' Book Chat
Wednesday, June 5, 10:00 - 11:00 am
Abiitan's Porter Cafe, 428 S 2nd St
Join us to discuss Friends Forever, where two girls and three boys, all with strikingly different looks and talents, meet at the Atwood school as young children. Together, they become an inseparable group--known to outsiders as "The Big Five"--and lean on one another through all the bumps and bends of childhood and adolescence. But when the tight-knit group graduates and scatters to different colleges, their lives diverge dramatically, and some of the friends are lost forever. Those who remain will struggle to understand that even bonds that once seemed unbreakable are not proof against tragedy--but that they can also transform into something new and entirely unexpected.

If you'd like to read ahead, July's book is Becoming by Michelle Obama. Click here to see what books we're reading at future Book Chats. Have a book suggestion for the Book Chat? Email Marsha Blumenthal

MCC members and guests. No registration required.
A Conversation on Health Care: What's the Problem? What's the Solution?
Wednesday, June 5, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
DeLaSalle High School, 1 DeLaSalle Dr, Room D104
Everyone seems to be talking (again) about health care reform. The ideas range from a total repeal of the Affordable Care Act to replacing insurance with a government-run single-payer plan. What are some ways forward to fix our health system? Why is it so difficult for the U.S. to address health care? Our speakers, Stephen J. Hemsley and Dr. Lewis G. Sandy, from UnitedHealth Group, will make some opening remarks and then facilitate a conversation on health and health care. UnitedHealth Group is Minnesota's largest company and deals with these issues every day, so they'll bring a unique perspective to our series on health care.

MCC members sign up here.
Birding Walk
Friday, June 7, 9:00 - 10:30 am
Roberts Bird Sanctuary, 4124 Roseway Rd.
Celebrate spring with a series of five bird-watching walks along the river or Minneapolis lakes! We hope to see migrating warblers and other songbirds. Gregg Severson, naturalist with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, will lead the walks. Bring binoculars and field guides, if you have them (we'll also have some to borrow). This week's walk is at the Roberts Bird Sanctuary, near Lake Harriet. Pay parking is available at the Peace Garden/Roberts Bird Sanctuary Parking lot on the east end of the bird sanctuary. Find a map  here.

NOTE: You don't have to be a serious birder to participate--this is a chance to learn! And these are not strenuous hikes but rather easy walks with lots of stopping.

MCC members sign up here.
Sunday Soiree
Sunday, June 9, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Stone Arch Lofts Rooftop, 600 2nd St S
Join your friends and neighbors for the Sunday Soiree, hosted by Dave & Peggy Lucas and Marcia Townley on the Stone Arch rooftop. Our hosts will provide Kramarczuk brats and all the fixings. Please contribute to the potluck by bringing a SALAD or SIDE! Beer and wine are also welcome! As you register, let us know what you'll bring by answering the "Question" that will appear on the screen. Buzz Dave or Peggy Lucas or Marcia Townley to be let into the building.

MCC members sign up here.
Mill City Travelers: Will Bracken Photographs Bears
Monday, June 10, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Stone Arch Lofts, 600 2nd St S, #701
Member Will Bracken has photographed and witnessed the habits of three bears in Alaska and Canada: the Coastal Brown Bear, the Polar Bear and the Kermode Bear (Spirit Bear). He'll present his photography and thoughts on the bears, and then lead an open conversation about wildlife photography.
 
This is the first in an occasional series featuring MCC members and their travel stories.

MCC members sign up here.
Meditation Circle
Tuesday, June 11 & 18, 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 members sign up here for the June 11 session; members sign up here for the June 18 session.
Nosy Neighbor Tour: An Architectural Tour of the Guthrie
Tuesday, June 11, 11:00 am - 12:15 pm 
Guthrie Theater, 818 2nd St S
What was on architect Jean Nouvel's mind when he conceptualized the Guthrie Theater? What were his inspirations? Discover answers to these questions and more in a 75-minute architectural tour of the iconic blue building on the river. We'll get a full backstage tour and then go to the foundation of the groundbreaking facility, covering everything from design to build plans to neighborhood inspirations. Cost for the tour is $12 per person, to be paid to MCC via check beforehand. 

OPTIONAL: Join your tourmates for lunch afterwards at a nearby restaurant.

MCC members sign up  here.
Nosy Neighbor Tour: Hennepin Made
Wednesday, June 12, 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Hennepin Made, 145 Holden St N
Take a tour of the Hennepin Made blown-glass lighting facility, near the Minneapolis Farmers Market. Its 30,000-square-foot building is the home of both Hennepin Made and its new cafe and event space, Parallel. In 2016, Hennepin Made renovated the building, originally built in 1955 as a glass window manufacturer. We'll tour the building, see a glass blowing demonstration and learn a little building history. Meet in the Parallel Café. Free parking is available in a lot on the east side of the building. The building's a little tricky to find because some streets don't go through. Click here to see a map, and use this address for navigation: 145 Holden St. N.

MCC members sign up here
M en's Coffee & Conversation
Thursday, June 13, 7:30 - 8:30 am
Elsie's Restaurant, 729 Marshall St NE 
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, MCC member Jose Peris hosts. Recently retired as a senior executive at USB, Jose will provide some personal background before introducing Chris Wright, CEO of Minnesota United, our major league soccer franchise. Chris joined the Loons after serving 13 years as president of the Timberwolves/Lynx. As a native of the UK, his first love was always soccer (football). Learn about the team and its new 22,000-seat Allianz Stadium in St. Paul.

MCC members sign up here; guests email MCC.
Lessons from a Chaplain and Social Worker on Death & Dying: 5 Things People Forget to Ask in End-of-Life Planning
Thursday, June 13, 3:00 - 4:30 pm
Mill City Quarter Club Room, 322 2nd St S
You've thought absolutely everything through, right--or have you? In this second session in our three-part series, "Lessons from a Chaplain & Social Worker on Death & Dying," we continue with the things people often forget to ask about in end-of-life planning. Some are big, some are small, but they all have the power to reduce stress for you and your loved ones in a difficult time. Expect education as well as interaction, and just the right blend of reverence and irreverence. Our guides will be Zac Willette MDiv BCC and Anne Archbold MSW LSW of Allay Care Services, a national nonprofit headquartered in the Twin Cities. You do not need to have attended the first session to participate.
 
MCC members sign up here
Great Decisions: The United States and Mexico - Partnership Tested
Monday, June 17, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
DeLaSalle High School, 1 DeLaSalle Dr
The United States and Mexico have a long, intertwined history, with both countries prominently featured in each other's politics and agendas. The war on drugs, immigration and trade issues have taxed the relationship over the years. What impact will new leadership in both countries have on this crucial partnership? Speaker Gary Prevost is professor emeritus of political science and international relations at the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University. He is currently engaged in research on the triangular relationship between the U.S., Mexico, and Cuba.

Registration on the MCC website is required for Great Decisions members. Sorry, not open to guests. To join the MCC Great Decisions Discussion Group, email Betsy Wray at betsywray@millcitycommons.org.

MCC GD members sign up here.
Lunch for 5
Tuesday, June 18, 12:30 - 2:00 pm
Sea Change, 806 2nd St S
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 Sea Change. The meal is dutch treat. Space is limited, so register early!

If this event is filled when you try to register, contact Betsy Wray (betsywray@millcitycommons.org) if you'd like to be placed on the wait list.

MCC members sign up here.
2019 Legislative Outcomes Affecting Older Adults
Wednesday, June 19, 3:00 - 4:30 pm
Mill City Quarter Club Room, 322 2nd St S
Learn about the impact the outcomes of the 2019 legislative session will have on older adults across Minnesota. The discussion includes an overview of legislation that will license assisted living facilities and provide important protections for older and vulnerable Minnesotans. We'll also discuss AARP's nationwide campaign to rein in the high cost of prescription drugs. Speaker Erin Parrish is Associate State Director for Advocacy and Outreach for AARP Minnesota.

MCC members sign up here; guests email MCC.

MCC Program Calendar

View the full calendar of MCC's June events  here.


News From Members 

MCC member Barbara Broker thought members might be interested in watching this PBS interview looking at increasing life expectancy and the effect on economics and quality of life. 

MCC member Ellie Hands is going to be at this event for gun safety on June 8 and would welcome MCC members to join her. Contact  ehands39@gmail.com to coordinate a meeting time and place.

MCC member Barbara Goldner would like to let members know that the M Health Psychiatry Integrative Wellness Team is excited to announce new upcoming Emotional Wellbeing Workshops this summer. They include Self-Compassion and Positive Emotions on July 19, Brain-Healthy Nutrition and Lifestyle on August 2 and Mindfulness, Movement and Breathwork on September 20. Classes are $60 and take place at 2312 S 6th St. For more information or to register, email psychwellness@umn.edu or call (612) 273-9827.
Ar ound Town

Personal Safety, Awareness & Self-Defense
June 11, 6:00 pm-7:00 pm, The Commons, 425 Portland Ave S
Attend a free personal safety, awareness and self-defense training class. Presenters include Renee Allen from the the Minneapolis Police Department and Krav Maga Minneapolis.

Music and a Movie in the Park
June 11, 7:00 pm, Father Hennepin Bluffs Park, 420 Main St SE
Enjoy music by The ChangeUps, an Americana band who play country and rock but also dabble in indie, pop, blues, folk and bluegrass. Music will be followed by the documentary  Won't You Be My Neighbor  about Fred Rogers, beginning 15 minutes after dusk.

25th Annual Stone Arch Festival
June 14-16, Main St SE from Hennepin Ave to Stone Arch Bridge, including Father Hennepin Park and Water Power Park
The Stone Arch Bridge Festival is held every Father's Day weekend on the Minneapolis riverfront. The festival is known for the unique artwork for sale from 200+ artists, live music on three stages and family friendly activities including an extensive car show. More information and full schedule available here.

Spoken Word: Michelle Myers and Morgan Butler
June 15, 8:00-9:00 pm, The Loft, 1011 Washington Ave S
In this special spoken word event, two nationally acclaimed spoken word artists share the stage for a powerful night of poetry and performance. Michelle Myers claims a space for community sharing and building. Morgan Butler is an established creator, curator and conjurer based in Washington, DC. $10 ($5 members). For information and tickets, click here.
 
Mill City Times  is a local website devoted specifically to our neighborhood and a place to go to find out what's happening, whether it's a new restaurant opening, a local event, proposed construction, volunteer opportunities and more.  
Please Welcome MCC's Newest Member!
 
Steve Rothschild
 
Volunteer Opportunities 
 
Click here  for community volunteer opportunities on the MCC website!  
 
MCC Ongoing Social Opportunities
 
Dutch Treat
Social Hour
Mondays, 4:00-5:00 pm
Aster Cafe
125 Main St SE
Drop in for an afternoon coffee or drink and a casual chat. No reservations
 required.

Rendezvous
Readers' Book Chat
1st Wednesday of the month, 10:00-11:00 am
Abiitan's Porter Cafe
428 2nd St S
    No reservations required. The next  book is
Friends Forever
by Danielle Steele
Click here to see what books we're reading at future Book Chats.

Rendezvous on 5
Wednesdays, 9-10 am
Guthrie Theater Level 5 Express
Drop in and join your friends and neighbors for fellowship at this neighborhood haunt. This weekly adventure requires no reservations!

Social Bridge
If you're interested in playing a round of social bridge, contact the MCC office.

Men's Coffee and Conversation
Elsie's Restaurant,
729 Marshall Street NE
Caffeine and camaraderie for the male members of MCC! This group meets every other Thursday at 7:30 am and is hosted by various members who get the conversation going.

MCC Women Connect
Join MCC women as they connect and grow, sharing experiences and learning from each other as they adapt to life's changes and transitions. This group meets the third Thursday morning of the month.
 
  Mill City Commons
Ongoing Fitness Opportunities

SBS Class
                        Thursdays
                 9:15-10:00 am
G-Werx Fitness,
428 2nd St S, #100
An exclusive opportunity for members, this weekly class focuses on strength, balance  and stretching to keep you fit and strong.
First time participants, please contact G-Werx Fitness at (612) 767-4415 and arrive 20 minutes early to complete paperwork. Cost varies depending on commitment.
  
  River Walkers
Tuesdays and Thursdays,
7:30-8:30 am
Stone Arch Lofts Riverside Parking Lot
All levels of walkers are welcome for this early morning walk along the banks of the Mississippi River. An MCC volunteer leads each walk.

Meditation Circle
                         Tuesdays             9:30-10:30  am
          Mill City Quarter,
322 2nd St S
 Join us for a weekly
self-guided meditation hour.
 
Ongoing Member-Led Activities

MCC Caregivers' Support Group
2nd and 4th Wednesdays,
May-August,
10:30 am-12:00 pm
A way to support members and non-members who are in a  caregiving role.
For more information, contact  Betsy Wray

Men's Dutch Lunch
Abiitan's Porter Cafe
428 2nd St S
Alternating Thursdays at 11:30 am
June 6 & 20
 This casual, dutch treat lunch alternates weeks with Men's Coffee and Conversation. No reservations required! Questions? Contact  Allan Burdick.
 
 
Mill City Commons | 125 Main St SE, Suite 339, Minneapolis, MN 55414
www.millcitycommons.org | info@millcitycommons.org  
(612) 455-3329