January

5

Coffee with Commissioners

9 - 10:30 a.m.

Wilder Center

451 Lexington Parkway North

St. Paul , MN 55104

The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and the Minnesota Council on Foundations, with support from the Minneapolis Foundation, is pleased to offer a highly interactive and informative series.

Spencer Cronk, Commissioner of Administration, for coffee and conversation. Commissioner Cronk will present for 30 – 45 minutes, followed by a discussion with the audience, including a Q & A component. Joining Commisioner Cronk will be Alyssa Haugen, Director of the Office of Grants Management. 

January

7

Science Fusion: Asian Americans in Science

1-4 p.m.



Science Museum of Minnesota



For more information, visit www.smm.org/sciencefusion or call 651.221.9444.

This year marks the first annual Asian Americans in Science day. It joins three other Science Fusion events, African Americans in Science, American Indians in Science, and Amantes de la Ciencia!, all in January. 

You can meet science and education professionals who represent many geographic backgrounds, fro SE Asia to the mainland and the Pacific Islands . Learn about what they do through interactive displays and presentations, and discover the inspiring contributions they've made to technology, education, health care, and innovation in Minnesota.



Science Fusion is great for kids and adults alike. Activities are included in museum admission

January

14

Science Fusion: African Americans in Science

1-4 p.m.


Science Museum of Minnesota



For more information, visit www.smm.org/sciencefusion or call 651.221.9444.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Science Museum of Minnesota's African Americans in Science day. It joins three other Science Fusion events: Asian Americans in Science, American Indians in Science, and ¡Amantes de la Ciencia!, all in January. 

You can meet science and education professionals, learn about what they do through interactive displays and presentations, and discover the inspiring contributions they've made to technology, education, health care, and innovation in Minnesota .



Last year, visitors learned about germs, electricity, blood pressure, pollen, and weather, among others! Don't miss out; see what exciting science knowledge you can gain and what fascinating science people you can meet.



Science Fusion is great for kids and adults alike. Activities are included in museum admission. Up to four children get in free with each full price adult.



January

16

Martin Luther King Day is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of January. It celebrates the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., an influential American civil rights leader. He is most well-known for his campaigns to end racial segregation on public transport and for racial equality in the United States .

January

19 - 22

1968- The Year That Rocked The World

History Theater

Presented in the 3M Auditorium

Minnesota Historical Society

1968 A year of extremes. Of war and love. Of brave beginnings and tragic endings. Of political and social upheaval. Of hatred and hope.
History Theatre and members of the Playwrights’ Center bring some of the most explosive events and personalities of 1968 on to the stage for seven distinct perspectives on the year that rocked the world. The war in Vietnam , the assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Senator Robert Kennedy, the Mexico Olympics, Lyndon B. Johnson and Hubert H. Humphrey, the election of Richard Nixon, and even the Apollo 8 mission broadcast on Christmas Eve. These events are surrounded by the unforgettable music of the era and pop culture that entertained and reflected on a world in chaos. Presented in conjunction with the new 1968 Exhibit.

January

21

Science Fusion: American Indians in Science

1-4 p.m.


Science Museum of Minnesota



For more information, visit www.smm.org/sciencefusion or call 651.221.9444.

A wide variety of presenters from the Twin Cities ' and statewide American Indian community will be on hand to share their areas of expertise through hands-on activities and dynamic displays. This celebration three other Science Fusion events: Asian Americans in Science, African Americans in Science, and ¡Amantes de la Ciencia!, all in January. 

Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with scientists, engineers, and educators. Science Fusion is great for kids and adults alike. Activities are included in museum admission. Up to four children get in free with each full price adult ticket.



January

28

¡Amantes de la Ciencia! (Lovers of Science)

1-4 p.m.

Science Museum of Minnesota

For more information, visit www.smm.org/sciencefusion or call 651.221.9444.

Introduces visitors to science and education professionals from the Twin Cities' Latino/a and Hispanic communities. Last year's activities included making milagritos, building geodetic domes out of marshmallows and toothpicks, and learning about human DNA. Come see what exciting science activities and demonstrations will be presented this year.

Science Fusion is great for kids and adults alike. Activities are included in museum admission. Up to four children get in free with each full price adult ticket.

February

2

Disability Day at the Capitol

Minnesota State Capitol

St. Paul 

Watch for details at: http://www.arcgreatertwincities.org/calendar.aspx

February

24

4th Annual Latina Education Development Conference

8:30 AM - 01:45 PM


Location: Hennepin Technical College


9000 Brooklyn Boulevard


Brooklyn Park , MN 55445



Contact Person: Val Vargas


Phone: 612-312-1692

Learn more at: http://www.chamberorganizer.com/Calendar/moreinfo.php?eventid=58578

Annual gathering of about 350 Latinas aged 14 - 19 from over twenty four area high schools for a day of leadership and motivation from professional women from our community. Breakout session include: Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Media Communications, Health and Pharmacy, Business & Information Technology, and Manufacturing and Engineering Technology. Become a sponsor now.

The Japanese Garden

Normandale Community College

9700 France Avenue South

Bloomington , Minnesota .

Normandale Community College 's Japanese Garden is a two-acre oasis on its campus in Bloomington , Minnesota . The beauty and serenity of the garden make it ideal for contemplation and renewal of the spirit.

The garden is open year-round at no charge, except when reserved for special events. We ask that children under 12 not visit the garden without supervision. A self-guided tour brochure is available inside the square shelter located in the garden. Please call 952-487-8145 to leave a message for the garden committee and receive more information. If you are not able to visit the garden, our online tour describes the landscaping and architectural features.

The Garden is maintained jointly by the College and the Japanese Garden Committee. The Normandale Community College Foundation acts as the fiduciary agent. This partnership ensures the future of the garden through maintenance, memberships, special gifts, and donations. We invite you to enter our garden through the gallery and then explore the website to learn more about the garden's features and history.

http://www.normandale.edu/JapaneseGarden/index.cfm

Wind Whisper West Kimono Gallery

128 Main Street W.


Wabasha , MN 55981

Phone: (651) 565-2002

WHEN FASHION BECAME ART A stunning collection of 2,200 Japanese wedding kimonos. Only Japanese textile gallery of its kind. All kimono are for sale.

http://windwhisperwest.com/Home.html

Polish Cultural Institute

102 Liberty


Winona , MN 55987

Email- winpole@hbci.com

Phone- (507) 454-3431 Business 1
(507) 452-5570 Fax

The Polish Museum features a repository of Polish culture, family heirlooms, religious articles, books, parish records and other treasures. The building is the historic Laird, Norton Lumber Co building.

Cookie Cart

The Cookie Cart couples real life experiences in business entrepreneurship, leadership training, academic skill building, and cultural enrichment, with the guidance of successful adult role models and mentors. Through this model, youth gain an understanding that the life choices they make today can help lead them to successful, productive futures.

The Cookie Cart has been serving North Minneapolis youth since 1988. We operate through the support of, and in partnership with, the business community, the Minneapolis School District , foundations, faith-based communities, area nonprofits, neighborhood families, and a strong volunteer network. By integrating and leveraging resources from throughout the Twin Cities community, our youth development programming represents a proven resource for positive change in North Minneapolis .

Check Website for order form and places they will be selling cookies.

The Cookie Cart

1119 West Broadway

Minneapolis , MN 55411

612.521.0855

612.521.9293 fax

Retail Store Hours: 9-5 Monday – Friday

http://www.cookiecart.org/

Hmong Elder Program 

Every Monday
9:30 a.m.-noon


First Lutheran Church  


463 North Maria Avenue  


St. Paul , MN 55106

Audience: Hmong elderly

Description: Every Monday morning, Hmong elders meet to socialize, exercise, learn about health issues, and share a culturally appropriate meal. Transportation is provided.

Contact: Jennifer Schneider 
651-293-1261 
seam-stpaul@hotmail.com

http://www.health.state.mn.us/ommh/calendar/events.html

Cambodian Elder Program 

Every Thursday
10 a.m.-noon


Christ Lutheran Church gathering space –

Southeast Asian Ministry (SeAM)


105 W. University Avenue  


St. Paul , MN 55103

Audience: Elders of the Cambodian community 

Description: Every Thursday morning, Cambodian elders gather to socialize, exercise, learn about relevant health issues, and share a culturally appropriate meal. Transportation is provided.

Contact:
Jennifer Schneider 
651-293-1261 
seam-stpaul@hotmail.com

http://www.health.state.mn.us/ommh/calendar/events.html

Breaking Ice

Every organization wrestles with communication – often based on misunderstanding or cultural differences. And we all know how it can impede organizations from moving forward.

Breaking Ice is a customized professional theatre experience created for organizations and businesses that need help with difficult issues both interpersonal and institutional.

Our professional staff develops a dynamic theatrical performance that encompasses the issues with which your organization struggles. Imagine what happens when the same discussions and dialogues straight from your workplace are illuminated by actors in a theatrical setting. It's a powerful, dramatic way to step back and get a fresh perspective while gaining a more intimate understanding of how individuals relate to each other. Following the performance, Breaking Ice facilitators lead participants in discussions designed to foster better understanding and communication.

Explore the tough stuff together – more than 200 organizations have since Breaking Ice began in 1996.

We welcome the chance to meet with you and discuss how we can develop a program for your organization. Call us at 612-825-0459.

http://www.pillsburyhousetheatre.org/PillsburyHouseTheatre/BreakingIce/tabid/2028/Default.aspx

Building Bridges – Teaching about the Hmong in our Communities Program

A Building Bridges presentation may be booked for a fee. Call 651-917-9937 or e-mail

hmongcc@yahoo.com to book a presentation.

The Building Bridges Program curriculum is flexible and is adapted to meet the needs, questions and interests of groups. Presentations may range from 1-2 hours with considerable opportunity for participants to ask questions The following is a list of topics included in the program curriculum:

·         Hmong Population Around the World

·         Hmong History and the Hmong Role in the CIA's Secret War in Laos ,

·         The Hmong Refugee Movement to the U.S. 1975-Early 1990s

·         Hmong Refugees in Wat Thamkrabok Buddhist Temple in Thailand 1992-2004

·         Characteristics of Hmong Refugees from Wat Thamkrabok and How they differ from earlier groups of Hmong refugees who came to Minnesota

·         Hmong-American Population and Demographics

·         Diversity in the Hmong Minnesota Community

·         Hmong Clans

·         Traditional Hmong Religion and Shamanism

·         Traditional Hmong Beliefs about Health and Medicine

·         Hmong Marriages and Funerals

·         The Hmong Language

·         Cultural Etiquette and Communication Strategies for Service Providers who work with Hmong refugees.

·         The Building Bridges program Curriculum is accompanied by a set of educational handouts.

http://www.hmongcc.org/BuildingBridgesProgram.html

Ongoing Events

West African Movement with Whitney McClusky

Wednesdays - 7:00-8:30pm

Hennepin center for the Arts

528 Hennepin Ave.

Minneapolis , MN 55403

Zenon School of Dance (4th Floor)

Cost: $12.00

A thorough and invigorating workout which incorporates traditional West African dance movement with contemporary and traditional music. This class offers a variety of dynamics and all levels are welcomed. Choreography is broken down to accommodate new dancers and the pace is heightened for those wanting more challenge. It is a friendly and inviting environment to experience a new dance form.

http://www.duniyadrumanddance.org/ongoing.html

AFRICAN DRUM CLASS WITH FODE BANGOURA - West African Drumming

Tuesdays 5:30–7:00pm

Patrick's Cabaret

3010 Minnehaha Ave. S.

Minneapolis , MN

$17 Drop in rate

$150 10 class card

$5 Drum rental

Learn traditional rhythms from Guinea West Africa. This is an open level class that will teach beginners basic technique and foundations of hand drumming while offering experienced drummers the opportunity to broaden their repertoire and learn challenging accompaniment.

http://www.duniyadrumanddance.org/ongoing.html

ADC's Fine Art Gallery Exhibition

African Development Center


1931 South 5th Street


Minneapolis , MN 55454


612-333-4772

The African Development Center Fine Art Gallery showcases African-influenced art from local and international artists. We feature innovative and on-of-a-kind art pieces that are inspired by the plethora of dynamic cultures steaming from the global African Diaspora. Whether you are in search of domestic or commercial-sized productions, the ADC gallery has quality art for every space you would like to further define and illuminate. We offer flexible options for purchasing art including, payment plans, leasing, and consignments.

Current Exhibition: Afro-Universal
Launching the official ADC Fine Art gallery with a mixed show of Contemporary Fine Art from Nigeria, Ghana, Somalia, Brazil, and America
Regular Operating Hours: Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The ADC provides your guide to financial success in America , and our new art gallery reflects another dimension to promoting your financial success. Purchasing original art does not only appeal to aesthetic and cultural preferences, but is also a sound financial investment! We embrace a holistic promotional approach that entails extensive research and networking efforts to display artists’ works in traditional and non-traditional spaces. These spaces include world-class museums, galleries, universities, business centers and so forth. Our holistic promotional approach ensures that art you acquire from the ADC gallery gains value overtime.

http://adcminnesota.org/page/adc-updates/adc-art-gallery-exhibition

Asian Women’s Reading/Discussion Group: 1st Wednesday, 7-9 pm

Facilitator: Saychay Thor  saychay@yahoo.com

The Asian Women’s Reading and Discussion gropu’s goal is to bring a diverse group of adult Asian women together for the purpose of promoting cutting-edge dialogue and reading in Asian women who are out of the usual environments that would expose them to or encourage personal reading and “outside the box” thinking. Each month, a specific topic will be chosen to encourage open dynamic discussion within this group. Participants will be asked to choose a reading of their choice about the topic to share. Talking points will be distributed ahead of time to help facilitate the discussion surrounding opinions, issues, historical facts, etc. related to the topic of the month.

The Loft Literary Center
      

1011 Washington Avenue South , Minneapolis , MN 55415

http://www.loft.org

Finote Tibeb Literary Group - 1st Sunday, 2 – 5 pm


Facilitator: Dawit Worku Asefour finotetibebmn@yahoo.com

Finote Tibeb Literary Art Center is an Ethiopian Art Center established to promote and nurture the Ethiopian art, theater, music and literature for Ethiopians and the community at large.

The Loft Literary Center
      

1011 Washington Avenue South , Minneapolis , MN 55415

http://www.loft.org

GLBTQ Writers Group 3rd Wednesdays, 7 – 9 pm


Facilitators: Shannon McCarville smccarville@loft.org & Lucas Schulze lschulze@loft.org

The group is open to gay/lesbian/bisexual/queer/trans folks of all ages, experience levels, and writing genres. You are not obligated to write anything or share any of your work if you are not ready, willing, or prepared to do so. The atmosphere is very supportive, friendly, and comfortable.

The Loft Literary Center
      

1011 Washington Avenue South , Minneapolis , MN 55415

http://www.loft.org

Basics of Somali Language Group

Open Book

Free

1st and 3rd Fridays, 5:30 – 7:30pm
Facilitator: Anwar Diiriye anwar@usfamily.net


The Loft Literary Center
      

1011 Washington Avenue South , Minneapolis , MN 55415

This group brings together Somali men and women of diverse backgrounds for the purpose of promoting Somali culture, language and literature. Call to Register:  612-215-2585.

http://www.loft.org

Paisano Scribes Latino/Hispanic Group - 1st Monday, 6 – 8 pm


Facilitators: Vanessa Ramos vramos02@hamline.edu & Shira Naharit snaharit@yahoo.com

Paisano Scribes seeks to create a bias free community for all Latino/Hispanic Writers of MN, a space in which to dialogue and discuss creative work or issues affecting Latinos. This group will create an environment for writers of all to levels to experiment, receive feedback, experience cultural solidarity as well as promote the presence of Latinos in the writing community.

The Loft Literary Center
      

1011 Washington Avenue South , Minneapolis , MN 55415

http://www.loft.org

HRP-MN Diversity Discussion Group


Diversity discussion group that meets the second Friday of each month, 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Attendees discuss diversity-related topics, questions, suggestions, and resources. Sponsored by HRP-MN and ASTD-TCC. Free and open to the public. Location: Black Bear Crossings coffee house, 1360 N. Lexington Pkwy , St. Paul (at the Pavilion on Como Lake ). Contact Lila Kelly at 651-983-4489 or lila@lilakelly.com.

http://www.hrpmn.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=74

Intercultural Communication Special Interest Group (SIG)


Sponsored by the American Society for Training and Development - Twin Cities Chapter.  Free and open to the public. Contact: Steve Theobald (612) 823-8710 theo0017@earthlink.net for more information.

http://www.hrpmn.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=74

Pow Wow Calendar for Minnesota

http://www.drumhop.com/mnpowwow.html