Here is the Bugle’s latest Midpoint, a web-based report on some local news and information, since the publication of our September and October issues.
Como Zoo flower garden shows
While many Minnesota gardens are winding down for the season, the Sunken Garden at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at the Como Zoo will be in full bloom!
The fall flower show opened on Friday, Sept. 19 and features a variety of chrysanthemums and fall favorites.
The first half of the fall flower show, which runs through Oct. 19, will feature orange, pink and purple chrysanthemums. Accent plants will follow the bright color trend, including late summer favorites such as celosia, marigolds, and zinnias will add to the cheerful display.
The second half of the fall flower show will run from Oct. 24 to Nov. 30 and will feature dark colors with creamy accents. The chrysanthemums will include crimson red, deep purple and pale pink. Dark foliage, flowers and fruit from kales, pansies and peppers will be complemented by pops of cream and light rose from dahlias and other classic fall flowers.
Have you ever wondered how the gardeners and volunteers make the change over from one show to the next? Now you can watch the transformation live on Como’s GardenCam. Sit back in the comfort of your own home and watch as volunteers and gardeners transform the garden into the fall flower show. After it’s installed, continue to watch the blooming 24 hours a day.
Click HERE to get a live look into the Sunken Garden.
Chrysanthemums, first cultivated in China as early as the 15th century B.C., were revered by poets and scholars for their grace and medicinal properties.
The fall flower show at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
League of Women Voters St. Paul presents Iceland film
The League of Women Voters St. Paul, in partnership with The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University, will present an evening of film and dialogue: “The Day Iceland Stood Still.”
This Emmy award-winning documentary by Pamela Hogan commemorates the 50th anniversary of Iceland’s historic “Women’s Day Off,” when 90% of the nation’s women walked out of their homes and workplaces to demand equality. This 100-minute event invites the audience to reflect on the legacy of collective action and its relevance today.
The film event begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24 at The O’Shaughnessy, 2004 Randolph Ave., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices range from $10 to $50.
For ticket information, call The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University at 651-690-6700 or visit the event page.
Reminder: At Luther Seminary–Smithsonian’s “Human Origins” exhibit
From now through mid-November, Luther Seminary is hosting the Smithsonian’s traveling exhibit “Exploring Human Origins: What Does It Mean to Be Human?”
The free exhibit, at the Olson Campus Center, encourages a public conversation on multiple perspectives and fostering greater appreciationof the complex science of human evolution.
The seminary, 1490 Fulham St., is also seeking volunteers to serve as exhibit docents. This is a flexible opportunity—take on as many shifts as you like. Complete the volunteer interest form to learn more and indicate your interest.
For further information, visit luthersem.edu/origins or contact [email protected].
Diversity Homeownership Fair coming
Tracy Byrd,2024 Minnesota Teacher of the Year and a Metro State University graduate, will be keynote speaker at the Twin Cities Diversity Homeownership Fair on Saturday, Oct. 11 at Metro State University in St. Paul.
Hosted by Elevate Homeownership Solutions and a coalition of diverse real estate trade organizations, this one-day fair will focus on expanding access to homeownership for first-time, first-generation and underserved communities across Minnesota.
Event highlights include homebuyer workshops. resource expo, raffles and giveaways.
Pre-registration is required due to limited space. Childcare is available for ages 3 and up. Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/twin-cities-diversity-homeownership-fair-2025-tickets-1492821773109
Schmit new NAMI Minnesota executive director
The board of the National Alliance on Mental Illness- Minnesota has named Marcus Schmit as its next executive director, effective Oct. 27.
Schmit succeeds Sue Abderholden, who has led the organization for more than 20 years and whose visionary advocacy elevated NAMI Minnesota as one of the state’s most trusted voices for mental health.
Currently, Schmit is executive director of Hearth Connection, a nonprofit focused on ending long-term homelessness through supportive housing and systems partnerships. He has more than two decades of experience in nonprofit and public sector leadership including assistant commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Corrections and director of advocacy at Second Harvest Heartland.
“Marcus brings deep policy expertise, proven nonprofit leadership and a personal commitment to advancing Minnesota’s mental health system,” Jessica Gourneau, president of NAMI Minnesota’s board of directors, said in a press statement
Midpoint Report is compiled by Scott Carlson, Bugle managing editor.