Culturology Calendar 12-29

by Travis Ryder

Thursday through Saturday:

Last chance to see the Sertoma Winter Wonderland at Northland Arboretum, Brainerd.  5:30-8:30 through New Year’s Eve.

Saturday:

Bovey/Coleraine Family New Year's Eve Party, 3:30 to 7 p.m. @ Longyear Park. Activities include skating, bonfire; treats, and a sing-a-long.  From 4 to 5 p.m., hot dogs, brats, & hot chocolate will be served.  A big 6 p.m. fireworks display is planned. More information can be obtained from Susan at 218.259.4455.

New Year’s Eve bash at the Sanford Center, following the BSU men’s hockey game against Bowling Green.  Live music starts around 8.

Sunday:

Bemidji cyclists will gather at The Cabin Coffeehouse for a New Year's Day bike ride. Given the predictions for mild weather and little snow they've planned a route around Lake Bemidji, with perhaps a longer option for those who wish to continue the tradition of one mile for every degree above zero the temperature attains. The Cabin Coffeehouse is offering half price beverages and free sugar cookies for riders. There will be a drawing for bike related prizes sponsored by Shifting Gears. All riders are eligible.

Monday:

Open Broomball begins this Monday, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at theBemidji City Park Multi Purpose Building on 23rd Street.  Take part in this winter classic, without the commitment of a league, join play when you can.

Minnesota History Datebook

Dec. 30, 1884 Fur trader Alexander Baker receives his patent on a land claim near International Falls, where he is the first settler.

Dec. 28, 1909 Federal liquor enforcer W. E. "Pussyfoot" Johnson leads a raid on the saloons of Park Rapids. They were illegally serving residents of White Earth Reservation. Johnson and a trainload of U.S. marshals gather every bottle they can find and demolish them on Main Street.

Dec. 25, 1913 Minneapolis's first public Christmas tree is lit in Gateway Park.

Dec. 31, 1937 Lake Superior floods Grand Marais as a major snowstorm hits the town.

Dec. 31, 1957 Plans are announced for the “West Bank” as we know it.  University of Minnesota president James L. Morrill announces that the university will expand westward across the Washington Avenue Bridge into what was a "blighted area" of Minneapolis. A key part of the plan is a new two-deck bridge.