The OP has taken some heat over his mods but I applaud him for it. I suppose that winter commuting in Minneapolis will always be something left to fanatics no matter what, but I've thinking more and more that there needs to be a different kind of bike to make it less unappealing.

Something enclosed and on 3 wheels perhaps. I know that these things exist but they're very expensive. I also know that pushing 3 wheels through a few inches of snow is even worse than 2 so maybe the idea is a non-starter.

Anyway, as much as you can use clothing to protect yourself from the elements, a fairing/windscreen would be helpful. Even snowmobiles have windscreens and those guys are wearing full helmets and a lot more gear than cyclists.