May 18, 2012

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Enjoying Winter, Minnesota Style

Winter may be cold and covered with snow, but there are numerous events throughout the state to keep you busy. They can help you to find a measure of warm joy in the midst of the winter freeze, from holiday lights to crafts and various Christmas celebrations.

One event you can take part in is the Nordic Christmas Celebration in Minneapolis. During this time, you can learn about the various cultures of Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, Finland and Norway. There is cultural music, at the area museum coupled with dancing. Your family can even go on a guided tour of the facility and listen to a well spun tale. Farmington is home to Christmas in the Village, where you and your family can enjoy a traditional holiday experience. Santa, Victorian style, walks through the village giving treats to the kids and you can listen to holiday tunes sung by a choir in the area church. You can also take part in cooking activities, sewing and get a hot drink and a snack in the drug store.

Those who love holiday light displays will love the Bentleyville Tour of Lights. This runs the period from November 20 through December 26, and is located in the Bay Front Festival Park. Admission to the tour is free of charge. in Faribault, you can enjoy the Shattuck St. Mary’s Campus Christmas Walk. The campus is decorated with lights, and as you stroll along you can enjoy singing by the students. There is also a performance of figure skating skill in the arena and other various demonstrations for visitors to enjoy.

For a different winter experience, bring your family to Wadena and enjoy a sleigh ride. Taken out by horse, the rides are free of charge to everyone. Children will get to meet Santa Claus and receive a surprise. With all of these experiences, you will have a wonderful time enjoying winter, Minnesota style.

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Lincoln’s Contribution to Minnesota’s Past

Abraham Lincoln
Image by George Eastman House via Flickr

When anyone thinks about Abraham Lincoln, they often do not make a ready connection to Minnesota’s past. In reality, Lincoln did make an extensive contribution to the state while also sharing a few surprising ties to its history. Minnesota first came into the union as a state a mere two years before the 1860 presidential election kicked off. Lincoln was the very first president that the residents of the state got to vote for.

As president, Lincoln provided a legal impediment to encourage immigrants from overseas to bring their families West to settle and start their new lives. This was done when he signed into law the Homestead Act, which provided land out west at an affordable price. Once in place, people flooded into the plains and the frontier, including Minnesota, to establish farms, businesses and set up new communities. This was very critical for the state to gain a position within the United States.

When the Civil War began to boil in the East, Lincoln put out a general call for volunteers to join the Union Army and stop the separation being pushed by the Southern states. Young men lined up to join, quickly filling the ranks with ready volunteers. As a new state, Minnesota was the very first one to volunteer its own young men for service in the war, showing its fierce loyalty to a unified America.

As the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday comes near, the state plans to celebrate its own connections to this great historic man. Activities throughout the state center on past events such as the election of 1860, exhibits of historical artifacts and also tours of historic Fort Snelling. These events will give people the flavor of the time period and help them to understand the interesting connection between Abraham Lincoln and the state of Minnesota.

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Looking into Minnesota’s Native American Cultures

Minnesota is home to a variety of Native American cultures. One tribe, the Anishinabe, number as the third largest in the continent of North America, and have played a huge role in the history of the state. The tribe is distinguished both for its crops of wild rice and their skill in constructing canoes. Their name, Anishinabe, means “first men,” but they are more commonly known here in the U.S. as the Chippewa. Their home territory was located primarily in the region of the Great Lakes, of which Lake Superior was the most populated.

The other main tribe in the state is the Dakota, which means “friends” in their language. They may also be known by their other common name of the Sioux, which is derived from the way that French explorers and traders in the area spoke their name. Within the Dakota nation, there are three separate groups: the Nakota, Lakota and Dakota. They lived primarily in the northern section of Minnesota and also along the shores of the Mississippi River in its upper portion. The divisions occurred over time and each group went its own way within the territory. Though separated, they still remained binded together as a group.

In the past, relations with the United States were very strained as treaties were often made and broken with regularity with the tribes. The Dakota were especially rebellious against government interference in their lands and lives, eventually rising up against it. This led to the U.S.-Dakota War that occurred around 1862. They eventually lost not only their land but were also forced to move to allow settlers to come into the area.

Today, these tribes are still present in the state and live on federally protected lands known as reservations. Here, the generations continue to preserve their culture and heritage by passing it on to their children.

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Living Minnesota’s Past at the Minnesota History Center

Minnesota’s history comes alive when you take a walk into the Minnesota History Center, which is located in St. Paul. The center carries a broad array of exhibits that are at the museum on a regular basis along with special ones that come for a short period of time. The exhibits are not just to look at, but are to be interacted with to give you the full experience of each one. It has something for all ages and interests, making for a full day of fun and learning.

Those wanting to get a general helping of the state’s history can check out the “MN 150″ exhibit. Here, you can experience the stories behind those who have had an impact on the state’s history. For example, you can take a seat on a Greyhound bus and then find out about the company’s history when it was first started in Hibbing, Minnesota. You can also be a contestant on a quiz show, seeing how much you really know about the state’s history.

You can even get inside Minnesota’s weather at the “Weather Permitting” exhibit. Here, you can relive the terror of the 1965 tornadoes that went through the state at the display “Get to the Basement!” This portion uses a variety of media to help you feel and understand what went on during this scary event.

Besides exhibits, the center also holds family events and specialized educational programming for school groups. Local living history demonstrations are done in the center, where individuals in clothing from various periods help visitors understand historical events from a different perspective. Through interaction, visitors can learn and integrate a new understanding of the state’s history. There are also numerous lectures and guided tours to enhance your experience as well.

The Minnesota History Center is a truly exceptional experience for anyone stopping by. It makes learning fun, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.

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Minnesota Metrodome Taken Out by Heavy Snowfall

With the recent snow storms blanketing parts of the country with heavy snowfall, flights, travel and football games are being negatively impacted. Minnesota has not been immune to this weather, especially with the recent heavy snowfall that has impacted the Metrodome. The weight of more than 17 inches of snow over the course of the storm became too much, causing the stadium roof to collapse. The snow fell in sheets onto the astroturf, falling from a hole in the roof. The seating around the stadium, as the team stated, would have been missed by the falling snow and debris.

This event happens at a critical juncture in the team’s future at both the stadium and in Minnesota. There has been recent talks of moving the team to Los Angeles, and the team has to make a decision regarding the lease on the stadium, which is set to end next year. This incident also helps to settle a longtime call for a new stadium, which they have asking for over the last ten years. If the Vikings do stay in Minnesota, this recent disaster may help their cause.

Right now, cleanup efforts are in place to get the stadium back into operable condition for the game against the Chicago Bears that is set for the December 20th. The panel for the stadium still has to have three panels replaced so that the roof can be fully repaired. The biggest issue in getting a new stadium is the six billion dollar deficit that the team has to deal with. The effort is currently underway to get public support for the new stadium.

The total cost for the new stadium is estimated at $700 million dollars, which the team has promised to pay one-third of. They are having some difficulty finding the support they desire, but remain determined to be successful.

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Winter Hits Minnesota with a Punch

Minnesota is feeling the punch of old man winter as snow, sleet and freezing rain pound the Twin Cities. As blizzard conditions hit Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has declared that no road travel should be planned here for the time being. Highway 50 and 52 were closed toady, along with County Road 20 located in Dakota County. The weather has reached such levels that the roads are currently undriveable.

The snow coming down is now beginning to drift, creating further hazardous conditions due to strong winds. Those out and about will feel temperatures dipping into the lower single digits to around zero degrees. Though the state is not new to rough winter weather, this storm is planning to put a crimp into many travel plans. When you consider what blizzard conditions are, you have to have two conditions met for over a three hour period. The first characteristic is strong winds that blow over a sustained period of time at a speed at or greater than 35 miles per hour. The second is to have visibility at or below a quarter of a mile because of snow.

A blizzard doesn’t always carry the promise of several feet of snow when it comes through. It can occur even when snow isn’t falling from the sky. When the winds reach the right speed, then they can pick up snow that has already fallen and whip a good storm in no time. That is why Minnesota is experiencing blizzard conditions, and with the low visibility and high winds, many more roads may become impassible with time. Motorists heading out on the road in a storm like this should drive slower, give yourself extra time and carry emergency supplies in your car. These should include a blanket, extra clothing, flashlight, non-perishable food and a first aid kit. This helps you be prepared for the worst winter has to offer.

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Shoveling Out After the Storm

The Midwest is still reeling in some areas from the massive snow that has hit, Minnesosota getting its fair share well. The total when the snow left is around 17.1 inches, enough to make things difficult for those who will have to get to work this week. Though roads in most areas are mostly clear, the Minnesota Department of Transportation still warns drivers to be cautious. Some roads may be icy as melted snow turns back into ice with freezing nightly temperatures.

This storm has got winter going early in the state, and has a unique way of doing it. As it came in, it moved from the northwest towards the southeast, moving quickly and bringing in plenty of moisture. St. Paul took a beating, and cars could be found abandoned along roadways as drivers despaired of digging them out. Minneapolis faces a huge obstacle in trying to clear city streets of the immense snow drifts and accumulation.

Some residents had their health impacted when trying to dig themselves and their vehicles out. These ranged from minor frostbite to heart attacks, keeping hospitals busy throughout the night during the storm. The situation was made worse by strong winds that reached up to sixty miles per hour. This caused the snow to drift and become tightly packed together.

On city streets, there were over a hundred buses stranded on city streets that were snow packed. The airport was packed with visitos when 100 flights had to be taken off the schedule due to the weather. This storms tops out in total snowfall as the fifth largest, which makes for an interesting beginning to the Minnesota winter. City officials in the Twin Cities are working hard to help residents get out from under the snow and get city streets clear for traffic.

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Taking to Minnesota Trails

Minnesota sports a number of long distance trails for outdoor lovers, many of which tie into the State Trail System. They take hikers through some of the most beautiful and rugged country that the state has to offer, making for an unforgettable experience.

One trail to explore is the Canyon Valley Trail, which runs 19.7 miles through a wide variety of country. The trail recaptured unused trails from the Chicago Great Western Railroad. While hiking, you can walk right alongside the Cannon River and take in beautiful views from several points along the way. You can also do a variety of other activities on the trail, including skateboarding, roller blading and bicycling. In the winter the trail is perfect for cross-country skiing. To ski on the trail, you must have The Great Minnesota Ski Pass.

Another favorite in the state is the Superior Hiking Trail, running a staggering 227 miles along Minnesota’s North Shore. The trail starts in Duluth and goes all the way up to Canada’s border. You can choose to either take a day trip out on the trail or backpack along the way, stopping to camp. The trail sports 82 different camping areas in the backcountry, which you can use without a permit for free. If you take your pet along, it must be on a leash.

The Red Jacket Trail runs from the Minnesota River and through area covered with natural prairie. This trail was also built on former railroad tracks. There is a park located along the way, with a covered area for a relaxing picnic. Canoers can launch their canoe at one point for an enjoyable ride down the Le Sueur River.

Whatever your particular taste, there is a trail within the Minnesota Trail System for you to take. They offer scenic views, challenging hiking and multiple activity choices for your enjoyment.

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Home Heating Safety This Winter in Minnesota

Winter brings on frigid temperatures that can often go below the zero mark in the state this time of year. This causes residents to turn up their thermostats, putting their heaters to work. A safety issue can be created for many who have installed a more energy efficient heater. These heaters are designed to be vented to the outside of a home, bringing in new air to the system. This is critical for the proper functioning of the furnace during this busy time of year.

The snow storm that dumped 17.1 inches of snow on the state recently creates a problem for homeowners with these type of furnaces. When snow drifts against the house, it can often bury and block these vents, removing the supply of new air that is being brought into the furnace. This creates a build-up of carbon monoxide, which can be extremely deadly to those living in the home. Most furnaces of this type have an inner sensor that detects the presence of carbon monoxide and shut themselves off. Sadly, there are some models that don’t.

There are a few safety tips that homeowners can do to help prevent this kind of problem from occurring. The first is clear the area up to three feet around the vent. This reduces the chance of getting blocked, but must be examined periodically to make sure it’s clear. You should also install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and make sure that they are in good working order.

When you have finished removing the snow from around the vent, you can know its working properly when any snow around the vent is melted off. By keeping on top of these safety issues, you can keep your family safe this winter and protect them from potential exposure to carbon monoxide poisoning.

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Preserving Minnesota’s History

Preserving history can be a daunting task, especially when you are doing so in a struggling economy and with little funding. Minnesota is the proud home, though, to a group of dedicated people who have been recognized nationally for their efforts. Throughout the state of Minnesota, various small historical societies give a labor of love to keep the state’s history alive for future generations. They also work to preserve and protect the artifacts and stories behind them that make history come alive for the general public.

For example, when you are traveling in the state, make sure that you stop by the Bartholomew House located in Richfield. This home was first built in 1852, and is a true testament to the pioneer spirit. The historical society that works with the house has taken a more professional focus, carefully documenting the area’s history. They also are being picky here about the artifacts they choose to display and how they are presented. This is what has drawn the attention to their efforts and many others in the state nationwide. For example, many of these societies within the state have won a whopping 10% of grant funding awarded by the American Association for State and Local History.

These societies have also targeted getting the oral history of each particular area by visiting local residents who have lived through it. Their stories are recorded professionally and also documented in writing, which is critical as many of these people pass away on a regular basis. This really shows the dedication that these Minnesota residents have to making a permanent record of the state’s history.

They also bring people on who have training in writing grants and who can promote their efforts to the public. With these efforts, some societies have even doubled their annual budgets, but many others still struggle.

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