News from the Downtown Alliance
January 8, 2021
A note from the president

Friends,
 
I hope that you were able to rest and recharge over the new year. There is good news from Governor Walz. Because of COVID-19 data moving in the right direction, our bars and restaurants can open with limits. Whether its in the dining room or for takeout, be sure to support our great downtown businesses. You can find the list of downtown options and details below.

To start the week and the year off with wonderful positive momentum, the St. Paul Area Chamber launched their new brand on Monday. This new brand and organizational identity acknowledges the tremendous work they have been doing over the past several years to bring together communities, walk the talk of equity and inclusion work, and be a voice for businesses large and small across the East Metro. You can read more about the changes here, but my sincere congratulations to B Kyle, Megan Ryan and the whole team at the Chamber.

Speaking of momentum, it was great to see the Riversedge project featured as one of Finance and Commerce's Projects to Watch in 2021. I have long supported and advocated for the vision for this site. Despite the challenges we are all experiencing right now, I still believe more than ever in the opportunity this project presents for downtown.

Keep reading to learn more about the annual Winter Carnival art show, our newest small business feature and a reminder to register for our upcoming speaker series event.

Mask up and take care,
 
Joe Spencer
President
Saint Paul Downtown Alliance
Speaker Series: Joe Minicozzi and the value of downtown
Mark your calendars and register for our next Speaker Series event taking place virtually Jan. 21.

Since we weren't able to gather on the plaza at Osborn370 again this summer for our annual meeting, we'll take a few moments to look back and celebrate the successes of this unusual year. Then we'll hand the mic over to Joe Minicozzi, principal at Urban3, to hear him speak on the value of downtown Saint Paul and the economic impact it has citywide.

Fire & Ice art show returns
For the fifth year, the AZ Gallery is hosting the official Saint Paul Winter Carnival art show, Fire & Ice. The show, which features original work by local artists, will be available for in-person viewing at AZ Gallery (308 Prince St.) Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning Jan. 9 and running through Feb. 28.
Small Business Spotlight
Tin Whiskers Brewing Company
Since opening downtown in spring 2014, Tin Whiskers Brewing Company has been a staple in the Pedro Park neighborhood. Tin Whiskers is known for their seemingly endless variety of inventive beers - they've released more than 125 brews this year alone - from classic IPAs and stouts to key lime sours and Nut Goodie-infused collaborations with Pearson's Candy.

From tap room manager, Andy Bobst :
We love being a part of downtown! Whether people are heading to a Saints or Wild game, checking out a show at the Fitz, catching a play at the History Theatre, or just looking for a place to grab a pint with coworkers after a long day, we're honored to be a spot for people to get together, unwind, and enjoy a few beers with each other's company.

Since COVID-19, Tin Whiskers has transitioned to curbside sales of crowlers, gift cards and merch from their tap room. Current offerings can be found here, but selections are constantly changing so follow them on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for the latest options and sneak peaks of upcoming beers.

This year we'll be regularly featuring the small businesses that make our downtown second to none.
Have a business you own or love and want to see it featured?
Downtown restaurant and retail options
Stumped for where to order dinner from these days? Or who might have that perfect holiday gift?

Have questions?

Banner photo cred : Visit Saint Paul