The Riverview Theater is holding screenings of A Christmas Story to benefit the Minnehaha Food Shelf this week, as part of their 60th anniversary:

We are presenting this film in conjunction with the Riverview Theater’s 60th Anniversary Celebration. It was on December 30, 1948 that the theater first opened. You’re invited to join in our celebration by attending one of the special showings of A CHRISTMAS STORY that we will be presenting on December 22 and 23 and, at the same time, helping to support the Minnehaha Food Shelf. Admission will be just 50 cents or a canned food item. All admission receipts and food will be donated to the food shelf. There will be special concession pricing as well. Popcorn and drinks (1 size only) will also be 50 cents.

In Minnesota, food shelves have seen a record increase in need this year, with a 15% increase this past fall, according to Minnesota FoodShare.

Here is the nitty-gritty:

Location: Riverview Theater (3800 42nd Street S, Mpls, MN 55406)
Dates: December 22nd & 23rd
Showtimes: 5 p.m. & 7:15 p.m.
Admission: 50 cents or a canned food item, popcorn/drinks will also be 50 cents

Two local foodie famous people — Tamara Schultz of La Belle Vie and Ryan Ecklund of Capital Grille — lost all of their belongings in a house fire just a few weeks ago. Their restaurant friends are coming together to throw a helluva benefit on their behalf. You know restaurant biz folks are gonna do it up right.

Sunday, October 26
Solera, 2nd floor
6-11pm
$20 suggested donation

Free beer and hors d’oeuvres, DJs, tarot card readings, and a silent auction and prize raffle. Think gift certificates to fine dining establishments and (and!):

Other silent auction and prize raffle items include a night on the town package from Classic Auto & Limo, tickets and merchandise from the St. Paul Saints, donated pieces from local artists, tons of movie and sports memorabilia and yourself as a character in the upcoming sequel to the Iron Chef America video game.

Open to everyone. You don’t even have to know anybody. Have you ever been upstairs at Solera? It’s nice. It’ll be worth it for the food alone.

You can find more info about the fire, how Tamara and Ryan are doing, and make donations at mnphoenix.wordpress.com.

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