With all the events going on in Bloomington, Minnesota, this fall, you’ll want to plan ahead and not miss a thing. Whether you’re an athlete or a shopaholic, you can just drive out and join the fun. See what your local theater troupes and community recreation groups have to offer this year. 

‘Our Town’ Performance

Artistry Theater and Visual Arts will perform “Our Town” Sept. 6-29 in the Schneider Theater at the Bloomington Center for the Arts.  Thornton Wilder, a Pulitzer Prize winner, composed this romantic drama about the residents of Grover’s Corners, New Hampshire.

Artistry is located at 1800 W. Old Shakopee Road. Performances are available on on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and weekends.

Making Strides of the Twin Cities

On Saturday, October 26, 2019 take a long morning walk and join the fight against breast cancer at the same time. The Mall of America, located at 60 E. Broadway in Bloomington, is hosting this walk as a charity fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. The walk starts at 8 a.m., with same day registration available on-site at 7:00 a.m.

‘Reclaiming Our Grandmothers’

Head back to the Bloomington Center for the Arts and visit the Atrium Gallery between Sept. 13 and Nov. 3 to see Zamara Cuyún’s paintings in the exhibition, “Reclaiming Our Grandmothers”. Through her art, viewers will see Guatemala in its past and present from a woman’s perspective. The opening reception is September 13, from 6-8 p.m. Read the rest of this entry »

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Every season, Ford comes out with brand-new vehicles equipped with innovative features. What new and exciting models will Ford release in 2020? Here are five you will love to test-drive. 

1. The 2021 Ford Bronco

The rugged and powerful Bronco SUV is among the world’s most popular four-wheel-drive cars. The model originated in the 1960s and is still going strong in popularity. This year, the 2021 Bronco, which will be available for purchase in 2020, is a midsize SUV with tons of high-tech features and a brand-new style. Stay tuned for updates about upcoming developments and amazing new features for this model.

2. The 2020 Ford Escape

The 2020 Escape is aptly named, as it’s large and luxurious enough to take the whole family on a fun journey. The 2020 Escape boasts a roomy interior and impressive new technology features, making this car a must-have for your 2020 getaway. Consider, for example, its new Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, a special class of driver assistance that includes traffic alerts, a precollision assistance program, auto-emergency braking, a lane-keeping system, and even more accessories and optional upgrades to improve your driving.

3. The 2020 Ford Super Duty

If you are in need of a truck for work as well as pleasure, look no further than the 2020 Ford Super Duty. A truck of this magnitude requires superpower, and so, it has been supplied with an impressive powertrain gas engine and extra-strong transmission. The F-600 engine takes either diesel or gas, and you can customize your purchase further, opting for deatures such as a 6.7-liter PowerStroke diesel engine or a 7.3-liter V-8. You can also choose between a 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain. You’ll enjoy a new 10-speed transmission, as well. Read the rest of this entry »

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Bloomington, Minnesota, is a thriving city located outside Minneapolis that offers diverse attractions — most notably the Mall of America. Shouldered by 39 miles of reserved parklands and wetlands, Bloomington is a convenient 20-minute drive from Minneapolis and home to an array of activities beyond the city’s famed mall. Here are a few to check out while you’re in the area. 

1. Take a Journey Through Minnehaha Falls Park

Gorgeous Minnehaha Falls is part of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and operates under the umbrella of the National Park Service. The park is legendary. A product of landscape architect Horace W.S. Cleveland’s vision, it was designed in the late 1800s as a component of the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway system. Take in the beautiful hills, well-maintained trails, and the bridges that run over the waterways.

If you are interested in history, you will certainly enjoy the sites found within the park, including examples of 19th-century transport and architecture (such as the Victorian train depot and the John H. Stevens House built in 1849). The natural beauty makes this attraction worth the visit, particularly for photographers. The impressive 53-foot falls run into the Minnehaha Creek on the edge of the Mississippi.

2. Visit Prince’s Domain at Paisley Park

Once you’ve wrapped up your excursion into nature, consider a visit to Prince’s recording studio. It is larger and more significant than you might imagine, as Paisley Park includes not only the recording area but also a large estate. On-site tours give you the opportunity to experience what the musical recording process would have been like, complete with wardrobes and instruments. You can only purchase tickets online, so plan for this musical journey in advance. Read the rest of this entry »

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The Explorer is one of Ford’s most-loved vehicles. With a world-class engine and premium features, it’s the ultimate SUV for going on a fabulous journey with friends and family. With a number of trim levels to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s the lowdown on each 2019 Explorer trim’s features. 

XLT Trim

The XLT trim offers drivers a few options. You can choose from the XLT four-door, front-wheel drive or the XLT four-door 4×4. You can also choose between a combined fuel efficiency of 21 or 23 mpg. However, all XLTs have an impressive 290 horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission, and seats for six to seven people, making the XLT a great choice for a practical and premium ride. You’ll also enjoy comfortable seating in this SUV, due to its eight-way power driver’s seat that’s height-adjustable and has additional lumbar support. Folks riding in the back will love passenger cushion tilts and comfortable armrests.

Sport Trim

If you are interested in a sassy, sporty style, then you will enjoy the Ford Explorer 2019 sport trim. This trim’s features include a trail-blazing 365-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine. You’ll adore the look of 20-inch alloy wheels and rear coil springs, as well as assets such as rack and pinion steering, speed-sensing, electric power-assist pinion steering, power steering, and sport suspension. The sport trim has a slick exterior with black handles, body-colored front and rear bumpers, a black grille, and a spoiler. For long journeys, you might find the power liftgate, trailer hitch, and roof rack load especially useful. Read the rest of this entry »

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It isn’t always easy to find a great burger. If it’s juicy and well-flavored, and comes with hot, crispy fries, you are in heaven. Here are some places in Bloomington you may want to try the next time you are looking for a delicious burger. 

1.  Shantytown Bar and Grill

This bar and grill is considered to be “Bloomington’s little secret,” according to an article in StarTribune in 2018. The no. 1 seller on the menu is the Shanty burger, which includes cheddar and Swiss cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, and guacamole.

Other burgers highlighted as bestsellers on their menu include the chili cheeseburger with homemade chili, shredded cheese, onions, and sour cream. There is also the Mexican burger, which has seasoned sour cream, melted pepper cheese, and jalapenos. Finally, the Outback burger is prepped with tender cactus, green salsa, and pepper cheese. There are also a variety of appetizers and chicken sandwiches offered at this restaurant. You can also visit their Facebook page to check out their featured burger of the week.

Shantytown Bar and Grill is located at 8512 Pillsbury Ave. S. and is open Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.-12 a.m.  Read the rest of this entry »

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Improved both inside and out, the 2020 Escape ushers in the fourth generation of Ford’s top-selling crossover. Sitting lower to the ground and more car-like in appearance, the Detroit automaker is banking on its sedan and hatchback fans to gravitate toward the Escape as Ford discontinues all of its cars and hatchbacks for the 2020 model year. Stylish, versatile, and packed with extras, the 2020 Ford Escape is one of the most anticipated releases of the year. 

More Interior Space

Although the 2020 Ford Escape has a lower clearance and shorter proportions, it’s actually roomier than its predecessor. The crossover still has seating for five, but with a longer and wider body, it has more legroom, shoulder room, and hip room than ever. Behind the rear seats, a 37.5-cubic foot storage area provides even more storage space, eclipsing the 2019 model by 3.5 cubic feet.

All trims of the 2020 Ford Escape also boast sliding rear seats that move on a 6-inch track. This allows easy access to the rear cargo area without opening the tailgate. For parents, this is a welcomed feature for cleaning, as well as rearranging kids and cargo. Read the rest of this entry »

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Located 10 miles south of Minneapolis, Bloomington, Minnesota, is a vibrant town that has plenty of nightlife, attractions, and other top destinations. However, if you’re tired of the same social routine or you’re looking to break out of a slump, Bloomington offers community classes to indulge an interest or learn a new hobby. From social interaction to creating a new you, here are some ideas to enrich the mind, soul, and body. 

1. Bloomington Adult Enrichment Classes

If you want to find a new hobby or learn something you’ve always wanted to but never had the time, check out Bloomington’s adult enrichment classes. With over 250 courses designed for working adults, you can indulge your curiosity with courses in foreign languages, dance, culinary skills, financial literacy, home improvement, or computer skills.

Courses are available throughout the year, but make sure to sign up before the deadline. All classes take place at the Bloomington Community Education Center, located at 2575 W. 88th St. in Bloomington. Read the rest of this entry »

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Covering 4.87 million square feet, the sprawling Mall of America is one of Minnesota’s most famed and acclaimed attractions. If you’ve never been to the world’s 12th largest mall, the sheer size of it can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in the Mall of America and where to spend your time. 

1. Nickelodeon Universe

If you have kids, chances are you won’t leave the Mall of America without taking a few rides in Nickelodeon Universe. With 25 rides for all ages, you can zip through inversions on the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge or cool down with a ride on the Log Chute. Other attractions include the Xscape Entertainment Center with hundreds of arcade games, Moose Mountain Adventure Golf, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock sky fly. Tickets start at $3.60 for a single ride or $36.99 for an all-day pass.

2. Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy

When you’re in need of a chuckle, Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy has you covered. This adults-only venue has several top comedians live throughout the week with headlining acts performing over the weekends. Past acts have included the likes of Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Jay Pharaoh, Bobby Lee, and Bryan Callen.

Between acts or while you’re waiting for the show to start, grab a cocktail or beer from the bar, or order from their extensive menu that includes sandwiches, pizza, salads, and their world-famous poutine. Read the rest of this entry »

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In its final year of production, the 2019 Ford Fusion aims to shore up its legacy as one of the top midsize sedans in recent memory. Packed with features and style that leave European models envious, the Fusion is the complete package. However, one thing it might do better the rest is its functionality as a commuter car. With a comfortable interior, loads of tech, and unbeatable driving experience, the 2019 Ford Fusion makes the drive to the office just a tad more bearable. 

1. Six Engine Options to Maximize Power or Efficiency

Whether you’re looking to save money on gas or zoom your way through congestion, the 2019 Ford Fusion has a model to meet your needs. A 175-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder is the stock engine, providing up to 31 mpg on the highway.

A 245-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-four and a 181-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo-four highlight the two four-cylinder turbocharged options, providing 29 mpg and 34 mpg on the highway respectively. For some ferocity on the pavement, an upgrade to the turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 is a no-brainer. Available solely on the Sport trim, this monster boasts 325 horsepower, yet it doesn’t let efficiency slide, posting 26 mpg on the highway.

Two hybrid options are also available to lower your carbon footprint and maximize your driving distance. The plug-in variant features a 25-mile range on a single charge, while the regular hybrid boasts 41 mpg combined. Read the rest of this entry »

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Don’t let summer pass you by without taking the time to make memories with the entire family this year. Check out some of these locations near Bloomington, Minnesota, where everyone is sure to have a good time.

Valleyfair

An amusement park is a great way to celebrate the summer season. Valleyfair’s roller coasters, such as the Delirious, Corkscrew, Excalibur, and High Roller are perfect for families with older kids who are looking for thrill-seeking excitement. Valleyfair also has plenty of smaller attractions for families with younger kids, with rides such as Planet Snoopy, Bumper Cars, and Mad Mouse. On a hot summer day, Soak City is the perfect place to cool off. Soak up the sun while you and your family enjoy the pool, water slides, and splash areas.

Check out one of the live shows at Vallyfair, including Peanuts Showplace with Snoopy and the gang and live music in the water park. Treat your taste buds to one of the many dining and drink options available in the park. Keep an eye out for a few of the upcoming summer events at Valleyfair, including the Food Truck Fest, the July 4th BBQ, Minnesota Eats, and Corn Feast.  Read the rest of this entry »

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