Super Moon Photos by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Mill District resident Ric Rosow 

May 26th was the 2nd and final Super Moon for 2021. I attempted a similar shot for the Super Full Moon in April up in Grand Marais. I consulted with Dr. Mike Shaw (https://www.mikeshawphotography.com/cvbio), an award winning astrophotographer, author, speaker, and teacher on finding just the right location in Grand Marais where the moon would rise up over the lighthouse. Clouds in Grand Marais prevented me from photographing the Super Moon in April on the day it was full. I did capture a nearly full moon early in the morning two days later. My wife was awakened at 3:30 a.m. by the light from the moon shining into our hotel room. She woke me from a deep sleep and I spent the next several hours photographing the moon in several locations. This was a waning gibbous moon The moon over a downtown building turned out to be the best and closest to what I had hoped for. By the time I reached that location, some clouds had moved in, giving the moon a soft and pink hue.

Waning Gibbous Moon Over Grand Marais - April 28, 2021

But in the early morning of May 26th the skies were totally clear of clouds. I planned the shot ahead of time using photo planning tools “PlanIt Pro” and “Photo Pills.” To become more familiar with PlanIt Pro I took a live webinar tutorial on using the app from Mike. I’ve taken a number of live in the field photo workshops from him as well, as online webinars and several one-on-one online tutoring sessions. With Mike’s assistance I was able to confirm that the location I picked out would indeed lend itself to the type of moon photograph I wanted.

Above and below - Super Full Moon next to the North Star Blankets sign, May 26, 2021

For this photo shoot I left home around 12:45 a.m. with my wife and set up my tripod and camera at the location I had picked out on the Stone Arch Bridge. You might think that at that time of night I would be alone. That was not the case. There were people sitting at the park benches as I approached the bridge and then a fairly constant stream of people walking both directions on the bridge. I greeted most of them in between taking photos. One group of young women suggested I take a photograph of the colorful 35W Bridge. When I described what I was setting up to take they thought that was neat. Since a full moon is so bright and the sky so dark at that time of night, you don’t see the buildings in a photograph exposed to capture detail in the moon. Mike had warned me that I would get only the bright moon against a black sky and no foreground detail. Mike is from St. Paul. He may not have known that the North Star sign is illuminated at night. So I got the moon and the illuminated sign. It turned out as well as I could have expected.

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You can see more of my work at www.ricrosowphotography.com. 

Minneapolis Parks Foundation Announces Monthly Self-Guided Tours for Summer 2021

Minneapolis Parks Foundation recently announced the return of their popular summer series, Walk & Talks, with new online and download-and-go tours monthly through August.

NEW! Water Works at Mill Ruins Park

This year's self-guided tours will be both online StoryMaps and download-and-go printables so you can enjoy them at a time and pace that's right for you. A new Walk & Talk will be introduced every month through August, starting with the most exciting new destination in Minneapolis: Water Works at Mill Ruins Park.

Access Water Works self-guides here.

The Journey of the Merriam Street Bridge

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

As one can imagine, bridges are very important for cities along rivers, and Minneapolis is no exception. We have bridges for trains, pedestrians, and vehicles. They are a must, especially if you live on an island. From 1855 to 1987, the only bridge vehicles and pedestrians could cross to get to Nicollet Island was the Hennepin Avenue Bridge, but in the Spring of 1987, that changed.

Old Broadway Bridge 

In 1887, the second iteration of the Broadway Avenue Bridge was completed, and it lasted roughly 100 years. As the city grew, so did the need for larger bridges, so in 1985, they tore it down to make way for a the new, and current bridge. However, not all of it was lost forever. County officials, including the cousin of yours truly, John Derus, thought it would be a great idea to somehow save one of the spans of the old Broadway Bridge and move it down river to connect the lower east side of Nicollet Island to St. Anthony Main, and in September of 1986, they did just that. Picking out the best-looking span of the old bridge, they lowered it onto two barges to be floated down the river. Of course, a grand moment like this needed to be celebrated, so officials from the county and city had an event to send off the old truss. As Kate Parry of the Star Tribune said, “Sam Sivanich, chairman of the Hennepin County Board, leaned over to christen the fragment of the old Broadway Bridge [and] cracked a $2.89 bottle of pink champagne against the barge.” This was an expense that I’m sure all the taxpayers could get behind.

During the short journey to the back channel of Nicollet Island, a huge rainstorm passed over central Minnesota, and it wasn’t until the old truss was under the Burlington Northern Santa Fe bridge, now a pedestrian only bridge that connects Nicollet and Boom islands, when the Mississippi River started to rise. Well, the old truss got stuck, and the river kept rising! In order to make sure their bridge was not destroyed, BNSF parked five locomotives on the bridge just to weigh it down until the river level lowered and the old truss could continue its journey to its new home.

Merriam Street Bridge Minneapolis

This plaque can be found on the Merriam Street Bridge

Finally, on a Thursday in July of 1987, the Merriam Street Bridge opened. Joe Kimball, also from the Star Tribune, noted that the first vehicle across the “new” bridge was a horse-drawn carriage. Not only did this make the island more accessible, it opened up that part of the riverfront for further park development. Spanning roughly 256 feet, the Merriam Street Bridge seems like it was built for that part of the river. Oddly enough, the makers of the bridge were the King Iron Bridge Company, who also constructed the old 10th Avenue Bridge, and a plaque from its time as a span of the old Broadway Avenue Bridge is still present that lists the year, the company, and city engineer.

Bridges are important, our city’s history is important, and in 1986-87, an important decision was made to save both. Next time you cross the Merriam Street Bridge, take your time to look at it and appreciate it’s 19th century American architecture that helped settlers move West. It’s not just a fancy truss bridge. It’s history.

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About Michael Rainville, Jr.

A 6th generation Minneapolitan, Michael Rainville, Jr. received his B.A. in History, Graduate Certificate in Museum Studies, and M.A. in Art History from the University of St. Thomas. Click here for an interactive map of Michael's past articles.

Small Business Spotlight: Coconut Whisk Café

Article and photos by Becky Fillinger

Bella Nhi LamAnother ribbon cutting in downtown Minneapolis! Coconut Whisk Cafe officially opened its doors in downtown Minneapolis Thursday, May 20, with a ribbon cutting at Noon. In attendance were many friends, family and local politicians. We talked to entrepreneur-owner, Bella Nhi Lam, about the journey of starting a business in college (not so long ago in 2018) to having a storefront in downtown Minneapolis.

Q:  You started your business with no business degrees or extensive business plans. How has that changed?

A:  We have been so incredibly lucky to have advice and mentorship from so many people and organizations. We really did start with little money, but we had a big dream!  We were helped by Lunar Startups, ImpactSKU, Chameleon Shoppes, the mpls downtown council and so many others!   We have learned so much from individuals and organizations committed to helping entrepreneurs like us obtain access to capital, and peer support and mentoring. I am a first-generation college graduate and immigrant (from Vietnam). I could not have done any of this without the support of my family or my partner, Myles – and opening my first storefront during AAPI Heritage Month is very meaningful to me.

Q:  Where might we find your vegan and gluten free products today?

A:  Here at Coconut Whisk Café in the Young Quinlan Building, 81 S 9th Street, Suite 120, plus we're also in 70 co-ops in several states, and we have a large online presence, too. I’d like to point out that in addition to being vegan and gluten free, our tasty baking mixes are also easy-to-make, dietitian-approved, dairy-free, egg-free, peanut-free, soy-free, non-GMO and made without preservatives or artificial ingredients.

Q:  What would you recommend to someone if they’re trying your products for the first time?

A:  Here in the café, our Dirty Mylk Boba and the Lake Monster and wonderful drinks for first timers. They will also like Cloudberry Waffles or Waffle Sticks, available in multiple flavors! Online, I think our Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix would be one to choose. 

Q:  What do you hope to accomplish in the next year?

A:  I want to give back to help other entrepreneurs just getting started. I want to support BIPOC and women-owned makers in my store. I hope to continue to work on the issue of food insecurity – there is so much hunger in our community. Please note that for every baking mix sold, we support local and global hunger initiatives.

I want my business to succeed so that I may continue to positively impact our community’s health, the environment, animals and the planet.

Q:  I think you’re going to be a huge success gauging by the crowd of people at the May 20 ribbon cutting ceremony. How may we follow your news?

A:  Please follow us on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. Come by the café and have a snack with us!

Community Leader: Carrie Day Aspinwall

Article by Becky Fillinger

Minneapolis is blessed to have so many talented community leaders. Meet Carrie Day Aspinwall, who has been civic-minded for decades. Her life of service is an inspiration for us all. 

Carrie Day AspinwallQ:  Carrie, you're a well-established community leader. You’ve served Minneapolis for decades. However, Minneapolis acquires new residents every day. For those of us who don't know, please tell us a brief bio of yourself - where did you grow up, go to school, major influencers?

A:  I cannot speak about myself without speaking about my parents and ancestors first.  

I really must honor those that were here before us, pre-Minneapolis, in order to speak of the city I love so much. So, to my Dakota relatives and all our ancestors before them, I honor and respect all that you have left for us, that we continue to honor your selfless effort to maintain our traditional way of life, honor our Meezeeseebee, meaning “Big River” (Ojibwe), Hahawakpa, meaning "River of the Falls” (Dakota).

My father arrived at the Great Northern Depot on Washington Avenue from Walker, MN on his way to boot camp in Fort McCoy Wisconsin. My mother arrived from the Mille Lacs reservation to take a job in the laundry of St. Mary's Catholic Hospital on what is now Riverside. They were part of the Relocation Act, and as most Natives they were able to quickly identify where their people were, find work and settle in the urban area. My father went into the military and came home to marry my mother and take residence in south Minneapolis, where most of our Indian people began to reside. 

Frances FairbanksI was born and raised in the Phillips neighborhood, received my formal education locally and found that being of service was in my nature, and the need of my people was and continues to be strong. At age 17 (I graduated from high school early) I went straight to work at the then brand-new Minneapolis American Indian Center. Frances Fairbanks, lifelong Executive Director, took me under her wing and along with many other "Aunties" in the neighborhood, taught me about my urban people, our needs, where the resources were to assist, how to access and how to speak for our people, how to organize. Now at age 62, I feel that my service to the community, to the city that I love, has come full circle, as I'm now the one who is sharing my experience, my knowledge with our younger adults. Now I'm the elder, the Auntie that is sought out. I am honored.  

Q:  Your Facebook page notes that you're Positive, Progressive and Prepared. How has this outlook served you in your professional life?

A:  Positive, Progressive and Prepared. There is a story there. First, I am the forever optimist, always looking on the bright side, the best side. I've had my share of heartaches and have seen my people suffer under many challenges, but yet they rise, we are still here, we stay positive. So, I'm once again honoring the ones before me. As a once younger adult, my progressive ideas were always welcomed, some toned down some by my elders, but progressive and with a bit of guidance was always working to that next best side. Lastly, I have to come back to Frances Fairbanks. She put a pencil and tablet in my hand and said prepare yourself always, whatever situation, you have to know the where, what, why, when and how in order to prepare yourself and your people in the endeavor for a better life, the best side. To this day, still old school, I carry my pencil and tablet, always preparing myself for that next thing. I also started journaling so that I might share my experiences with my 7-year-old granddaughter Sequoia. She is going to know a lot about what Gramma has done - the conversations, our people, our ceremonies, and how Gramma helped us get to that best side.

Q:  Are you still on the board of the Tiwahe' Foundation? If yes, what are the current initiatives?

Tiwahe' Community Foundation First Board ChairA:  The Tiwahe Foundation started out as the American Indian Family Empowerment Program (AIFEP), an initiative supported by the Grotto Foundation. I was asked to serve as an advisor to AIFEP and stayed on for 20+ years. As Senior Advisor, I assisted the AIFEP Program in creating the Tiwahe' Foundation. Tiwahe' means family in the Lakota language. We learned all the processes of becoming a community foundation, and today have raised over six million dollars to create a self-sustaining community foundation that will support American Indian people well into the future through the Tiwahe Foundation. I retired my seat as advisor to allow our younger generation to learn the history, the struggle and success of this very important community foundation, to allow them to carry into the future. They are already doing amazing things!

Q:  What is the city of Minneapolis' Collaborative Public Safety Strategy? Did you write the strategy? Were you involved in its implementation?

A:  The City of Minneapolis, in hopes of addressing crime and safety in some of our most impacted neighborhoods, then-Mayor Hodges reached out and sought ideas and potential solutions for addressing crime and create safe spaces. Thus, the Collaborative Public Safety Strategy (CPSS). For south Minneapolis'  Phillips Neighborhood, five community-based projects were identified, a community-based intermediary (fiscal agent) with the intent of interrupting crime across one summer. I was requested to serve as project lead, to support each community-based project and serve as an intermediary with local law enforcement (and stakeholders) in supporting these efforts. As with most projects, short term, an interruption did happen, but as with any dam at breaking point, the water does have a way of rushing back in. We successfully completed programming and came away knowing how we can impact crime, even in small ways, with the help and support of each other.

Q:  You were a Neighborhood Specialist for the City of Minneapolis. What were the day-to-day activities of your position? How did you measure success?

A:  I served the City of Minneapolis' Neighborhood and Community Relations Department for almost seven years. Led by David Rubedor, to this day, it continues to support our City's 71+ neighborhoods. I had the greatest honor to serve about 17 of these neighborhoods. Acting as a liaison to our neighborhoods, my assignment of 7-10 neighborhoods at any given time (although many of our residents knew our city's process quite well) I helped deploy information and lead projects across our city. The Neighborhood Revitalization Program, the Community Participation Program all intended to provide resources to support community-based ideas to revitalize neighborhoods and include residents and stakeholders at the decision-making table. As noted, most neighborhood organizations and their stakeholders are well versed with city processes, and all have unique capabilities. Success? I would say that if an organization could develop a community-based strategy/idea/project and get it through the City's contracting process, THAT would define success. I retired in 2016 when my husband retired and we left our city knowing that many have been impacted by our dedication and service.  

Q:  Please tell us about the Weed and Seed Program.  

A:  I LOVED this program. Another federal program you say, yes - but have you ever tried to implement a community-based strategy to address crime on the Northside, or in Southside? This federal program engaged resident stakeholders from our most criminally impacted neighborhoods in North and South Minneapolis, to sit alongside local, county, state, regional and national law enforcement from the US Attorney to the local precinct commanders - to have discussions, create and offer solutions, cry due to lives lost and to celebrate when things went well. Ten years of federal state and local support. Weed and Seed was a signature program in those days of "Murderapolis" and I was honored to work with all these folks.  

Q:  Tell us about your current work as a consultant.

A:  I've had my little consulting business since 1998. I opened with a full client list of six Native organizations back then, and over time I’ve provided several services - project development and management, community engagement, contract management, board training, resource fund development and community outreach and engagement. 

Today, I have two current clients:  

Little Earth of United Tribes Housing Corporation (LEUTHC), which includes three separate 501C3 organizations umbrellaed under LEUTHC (for a total of 4 organizations), providing Board, administrative and property management support.

Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board on their current Water Works Project and their Upper Harbor Terminal Project focusing on communications, community engagement to assure that our Native and non-Native residents are aware of the progress of each project and that we continue to include their voices as these projects move forward.

I've also been certified by the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) in Effective Public Participation, so I am keeping myself busy and engaged in my community. 

Q:  What are your hopes for Minneapolis in 2021?  

A:  I can see the fruits of our labor flourishing; we still have crime and some of those old strategies still have value. I can only hope that this path continues to bring us to that "best side," which sometimes seems like a long road. My path is for my grandchildren. Teaching them all that I know - to enjoy them, honor them and instill all that I have so that when they say where they want to be when they get older, I hope they say on the best side.

Q:  That is so hopeful! Thank you - how may we follow your news?

A:  I’m on Facebook. If you come offer me tobacco, we can sit by the "big river" and I'll tell you another story.

May 18 Third Avenue Bridge Renovation Photos

Editors Note: Mill District resident Doug Verdier continues to document the progress of the Water Works project. He has also been documenting the Third Avenue Bridge rehab project.

Work continues on the Third Avenue Bridge. Removal of sections of the deck from the span over West River Parkway expose the steel girders. 

Work platforms are being built beneath the span. Work also continues on the pier shown behind the platforms in this image.

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Below, two views from beneath the span showing daylight between the steel girders:

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Episode 9 of Milling About with Brianna Rose Airs May 20

Article by Becky Fillinger

Brianna RoseThis month’s episode of Milling About with Brianna Rose will first air on May 20 at 8PM on MCN6. The show replays for a month every Thursday and Friday at 8PM and Monday and Tuesday at 5PM. The May show will introduce you to several noteworthy leaders:

• Evan Benson, President, and Deborah Brister, Administrator & Outreach Coordinator, for the Audubon Park Neighborhood Association
• Ramona Kitto Stately, Santee Sioux Nation and Project Director for We Are Still Here Minnesota informs us about Indigenous Education for All, an initiative to make Native people visible in educational programming and to challenge false narratives that have been taught for decades. She also highlights the Minnesota Native American Lives book series - written, edited and illustrated by and about Minnesota Native Americans.
• Audrey Liquard describes the benefits of reusable menstrual products – better for your body, the environment and your purse!  #ZeroWasteLifestyle
• Jeb Myers, President, and Kiara Machuca, Corporate Relations team member, tell us the amazing success stories of Cristo Rey Jesuit High School. These include 100% graduation rate, 100% college acceptance rate and every student maintains a career enhancing job during their time at the high school. So many of our local students have talent, but no access to career or educational opportunities.  Cristo Rey is changing that storyline in the Twin Cities.
• Rinal Ray, Chief Executive Officer of People Serving People, informs us of the many programs available for families at their downtown facility. The organization is much more than a place for families experiencing homelessness – it provides education, meals and basic supplies, help navigating government systems and a sense of community.  There are many ways to help People Serving People – please check out the interview for ideas to engage with our worthy neighbor.

Milling About with Brianna Rose is a production of Mill City Times, and we cover topics of interest to our readers. We focus on local entertainers, small businesses, leaders, neighborhood stories, Mississippi River connections, local food producers and history - and are open to suggestions! Please email Becky Fillinger, executive producer, at becky_fillinger@hotmail.com to suggest ideas or to be a guest on the show.

Lilacs in Full Bloom on Nicollet Island!

Thank you to Doug Verdier for sharing photos of these lovely lilac bushes gracing Nicollet Island. 

Firefighters For Healing partners with Sherman Associates to Provide Housing for Burn Trauma Survivors & Injured Firefighters, May 19 Groundbreaking Announced

Via a recent news release from Hennepin Healthcare:

Firefighters For Healing and Sherman Associates Development host groundbreaking at The Moment, a one-of-a-kind project that mixes residential, commercial and nonprofit housing 

On Wednesday, May 19, there will be an 11am groundbreaking ceremony for The Moment Apartments and Firefighters For Healing Transitional Healing Center, located at 500 S 7th Street (next to Thrivent HQ). 

Schedule of Speakers:

11:10 Intro & Welcome

11:12 Chris Dunker, Firefighters For Healing

11:17 Jennifer DeCubellis, Hennepin Healthcare

11:20 Lisa Goodman, City of Minneapolis

11:30 George Sherman

11:40 Dig into our Cause/Shovel Shot

The Firefighters For Healing Transitional Healing Center will provide “home-away-from-home” suites for the families of burn survivors or injured first responders being cared for at Hennepin Healthcare and other metro hospitals. It will be a beautiful environment where a family member can rest and recharge. This Transitional Healing Center will also accommodate patients who have been discharged so they have a comfortable and safe place to transition to before heading home.

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“When a child or adult has sustained burn trauma, the family is forced into weeks or months of unique challenges. In addition, there our firefighters and first responders injured in the line of duty or facing health challenges like PTSD, cancer and more. In both scenarios, our Transitional Healing Center will provide 24/7 relief for families by providing emergency housing and a wide range of support,” said Founder & Executive Director Jake LaFerriere.   

Theresa Pesch, President, Hennepin Healthcare Foundation shared, “We consider Firefighters For Healing an extension of our Hennepin Healthcare family. They have stepped up to help our families when they have needed them with social, emotional, and financial support. We are thrilled to stand alongside them today, and honored to raise support for this much needed resource for our patient families & first responder community.” 

George Sherman, CEO of Sherman Associates pursues projects that make a positive impact on the community and looks forward to the partnership.  According to Sherman, “Firefighters For Healing is a passionate organization.  We are inspired by their commitment to supporting the healing process. It will be a wonderful oasis for children and families to live in The Moment.”

About these organizations:

Sherman Associates is a growing commercial real estate development and management firm based in Minneapolis with properties throughout Midwest and Colorado. Sherman has developed over 8,000 multifamily units, 600,000 sf of commercial, 4 hotels, 2 solar gardens, and has 2 Starbucks locations. Sherman develops, holds and operates its assets with a long term vision to build neighborhoods, enrich communities, and empower people. 

Firefighters For Healing supports burn survivors and helps firefighters and first responders pivot after a line of duty injury by providing their families with meals, no cost emergency housing, support and resources while they are receiving medical care in the Twin Cities. We meet and serve families 24/7 and 365 days a year from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. This non-profit 501(C)(3) charitable organization thrives on community partnerships, volunteer support and fundraising events.

Dan Collison announces May 18 premier of “HOSPITALITY. EMBODIED.” featuring the DID Ambassador Program

Submitted by Dan Collison, Director of Downtown Partnerships for the mpls downtown council

I am pleased to share a new short documentary that I have filmed and produced on the Downtown Improvement District Ambassador Program called “HOSPITALITY. EMBODIED.” The mpls downtown council will be premiering this 35 minute feature on the DID YouTube Channel Tuesday, May 18, at 12pm CST. It will be on demand after that time period.

I believe this will be of great encouragement to downtown residents and those who visit downtown.

Here is a preview:

Local Leader and Writer: Keno Evol, Founder and Executive Director, Black Table Arts

Article by Becky Fillinger

What does writing have to do with resistance? Here in Minneapolis, we’ve recently seen protesters and politicians – marching, bearing witness, changing policies, etc., on a number of issues. What do writers, especially writers of fiction and poetry, contribute to resistance? We talked to Keno Evol, founder and executive director of Black Table Arts, to find out.

Keno Evol

Q:  Please tell us about Black Table Arts.

A:  We’re a hub for the practice and development of Black artists. Our address is 3737 Minnehaha Avenue in  the Longfellow neighborhood – about seven blocks from the Third Precinct of the MPD. We’re an artists’ co-op interested in practicing black togetherness around issues we care about – food justice, police abolition, artistic and political education. We believe that art makes organizing possible, and if communal healing is ever possible, we must renew our assembly methods.

Workshops in progress

We host a bi-weekly writing workshop for Black writers to discuss what the poem, play, or novel has to say about Black revolutionary thought, home building, love, abolition, etc. We just completed No Future without Art, a two-day intensive training for Black artists interested in organizing and have continued to plan various art-share events for people to kick it, see who is writing alongside them, and who might be open to collaboration/friendship. Events are listed on our socials.

Q:  Could you tell us some more about art as a form of resistance?

A:  Art creates the enthusiasm that keeps social movements alive. People are drawn to and inspired by beautiful things. Without creativity, organizing doesn’t have the passion to sustain itself. Throughout history, art has been a form of study and joy to sustain resistance for many causes.

Q:  Black Table Arts has an annual Event – The Because Black Life Conference – at the The University of Minnesota. Will it be held this year?

A:  We’re currently deciding if we’ll hold an in-person and Zoom hybrid event in August. It has been our largest in-person annual event in the past where people come together to initiate, eavesdrop and share creative approaches to organizing – without judgment, paranoia, or hierarchy.

Q:  You’re called a facilitator of empathy and imagination. What does that mean to you?

A:  I’m a poet. Being a poet is the driving engine behind my personal life. Black surrealist writers have heavily influenced me - those works are characterized by imagination and empathy. Our non-profit seeks to offer space for literacy creativity, and I see myself as a facilitator of that - contributing to civic engagement, black togetherness, and the arts.

Q:  Please tell us about your facilities. Are they available for events?

A:  Our space consists of a bookstore, a performance space, and shared workspaces. Our rooms are named for Black female writers: Suzanne Cesaire, Octavia E Butler, Lorraine Hansbury, and Toni Cade Bambara. The spaces are available for rent – think about holding your next business or book club meeting in our building. You’ll have a modern, clean space and be at the center of civic engagement, art, organizing, Black joy, and imagination.

Mississippi River Paddle Share Season Opens Memorial Day Weekend

The Mississippi River Paddle Share reservation system is open for Memorial Day weekend booking and beyond. Paddle Share is a self-serve kayak sharing system on the Mississippi River (and one lake station at Lilydale Regional Park in Saint Paul). Rent a kayak online, pick up from lockers at your starting destination, paddle down river while exploring the shorelines and nearby restaurants, then return your kayak to the locker at your end destination.

NEW THIS YEAR: The Gorge route from Bohemian Flats Park to the Lake Street Bridge. This calm stretch was formed thousands of years ago, when a cascading waterfall slowly making its way upriver carved out a deep channel. Reservations can be made up to 21 days in advance. Learn more and book your adventure at paddleshare.org

Follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

MSPIFF to Light Up Local Bridges for Opening and Closing Weekends

Via a recent e-announcement from MSP Film Society:

The MSP Film Society is thrilled to announce both Minneapolis and St. Paul will be lit up in our festival colors of PINK & ORANGE to celebrate Opening and Closing Weekends. PINK & ORANGE were the official festival colors of the inaugural Minneapolis Film Festival in 1981. MSPIFF decided to return to these colors to celebrate our 40th Festival!

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The 35W Bridge over the Mississippi in Minneapolis and Allianz Field in St. Paul with both be lit up PINK & ORANGE as MSPIFF40 kicks off this Thursday, May 13th with an array of outdoor screenings all weekend at Como Lakeside Pavilion in St. Paul. The Crown of Capella Tower will be lit up in PINK & ORANGE over Closing Weekend May as MSPIFF hosts a pop-up Drive-In Closing Weekend, May 21-22, at Bohemian Flats Park in Minneapolis.

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In the past 40 years MSPIFF has grown to become Minnesota’s largest film festival and one of the longest running festivals in the country –and a Minnesota cultural institution. MSPIFF40 will run May 13-23 as a hybrid festival this year, with in-person outdoor screenings happening over Opening Weekend, May 13, 14, and 15 at Como Lakeside Pavilion in St. Paul; and Closing Weekend, May 21 and 22, at a pop-up Drive-In at Bohemian Flats Park in Minneapolis. MSPIFF40 will also present 180+ films by both veteran and emerging filmmakers from around the world virtually to audiences throughout Minnesota at MSPfilm.org.

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Visit MSPfilm.org for more information and to reserve your tickets.

Connect: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Youtube

Water Works May 20 Virtual Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Announced

Via a May 11 e-announcement:

You're invited to join the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the Minneapolis Parks Foundation for a virtual grand opening of Water Works at Mill Ruins Park.

Thursday, May 20, 11:00-11:30am

Everywhere on Zoom
RSVP via Eventbrite to receive the link

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Water Works is a Minneapolis Riverfront park project overlooking St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge that brings new historic, cultural, and recreational amenities to the downtown Minneapolis riverfront and one of the most popular destinations in the region. While the park will open, the Water Works Park Pavilion (and future site of Owamni by the Sioux Chef) will not yet be open to the public.

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Live speakers will include: Tom Evers and Dorothy Bridges from the Minneapolis Parks Foundation;

Superintendent Al Bangoura and President Jono Cowgill, of the Minneapolis Park Board.

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Additional videos and voices from: Kate Lamers, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Project Manager - The Sioux Chef - Mayor Frey - Council Member Fletcher - Senator Champion - Doug Snyder, MWMO Executive Director - General Mills - Bank of America - Paul Reyelts, Minneapolis Parks Foundation Board Member and RiverFirst Campaign Committee Chair.

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Featured opening and closing performances to be announced!

Local Author Spotlight: Lynette Lamb

Article by Becky Fillinger

Lynette LambLynette Lamb has been a magazine writer and editor for more than 30 years, including at Utne Reader and Minnesota Monthly magazines. She is also the spouse and caretaker of a stroke survivor for 15 years. Her husband’s name is Robert Gerloff. He was a very successful residential architect who ran his own firm until he had a stroke in the summer of 2006. Lastly, she’s our neighbor, living in the Marcy Holmes neighborhood. We talked to her about her new book, Strokeland.

Q:  What led you to write Strokeland?

A:  After my husband’s stroke, I sought out a book that would tell the truth about the reality of living with the effects of a massive stroke—both from the survivor’s point of view and especially from the caregiver’s. Many people can relate to having a medical event turn your life upside down.  I could never find a truly honest account that satisfied me, so I decided to write one.

Q:  You've been a professional writer for a while - how was the experience of writing Strokeland different from being a career magazine editor?

A:  I’ve been a journalist since I was 22, but in the 40 years since then I have nearly always written about someone else—and from a remove. Journalists are trained to keep ourselves out of the story. So, it took several memoir writing classes, more than a few teachers, and many years for me to feel comfortable enough to write my own story in the first person.

Q:  What advice would you give to others who might take up writing around a traumatic life event? Would you encourage them to write and document the experience? 

A:  I believe that writing about a traumatic life event can help you make sense of it. However, I recommend waiting awhile before trying to put it into book form. The years and the perspective it brings will only improve the story.

Q:  Were your husband and children supportive of Strokeland? 

A:  Yes, they were — and all three of them read the book before it was published and had a chance to make changes. Rob has been especially supportive, and I think truly brave in allowing this story to be published. He is my biggest fan and the real hero of the book.

Robert, Lynette and daughters

Q:  What do you hope readers will take away from your story? 

A:  My chief hope in writing and publishing this book was to help other stroke care partners and family members, especially those who, like Robert, live with aphasia - a condition that impairs a person’s ability to speak and understand others. It can be a very lonely condition to live with.

But I have been gratified to discover that other people who have experienced traumatic life events are finding the book helpful as well, as are friends of stroke survivors and health care professionals who work with stroke survivors.

Q:  Are there events planned to publicize the book?  

A:  COVID-19 makes typical book launch parties impossible, unfortunately. Because this book is self-published, I am mostly publicizing it through social media and word of mouth. I also hope to speak to some book clubs, as well at some events sponsored by MnCAN (Minnesota Connect Aphasia Now), a wonderful local nonprofit that offers conversation groups for stroke survivors and a support group for care partners. I am donating to MnCAN 10 percent of the cover price of each book I sell.

Q:  Thank you for sharing your story with us. How may we buy the book and follow your news? 

A:  Please visit my website:  https://lynettelamb.com.    

Minneapolis Parks Foundation and MPRB to host a May 11 RiverFirst Announcement

 

Tuesday, May 11, 10:00-10:30am

RSVP via Eventbrite to receive the Zoom link

The Minneapolis Parks Foundation and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board are hosting a virtual press conference on Tuesday, May 11 to announce the completion of the Great Northern Greenway Overlook at 26th Ave N.

This new destination is the first riverfront park in North Minneapolis in nearly a generation, and the first of two RiverFirst projects opening to community this spring. This is just the first phase of the River Link project and the beginning of our work connecting the Northside to the Mississippi River.

Press conference speakers include Tom Evers and Dorothy Bridges from the Parks Foundation; Supt. Al Bangoura, Jono Cowgill, and Kale Severson of the Minneapolis Park Board; and Minneapolis Councilmember Jeremiah Ellison.

While in-person attendance to this event is limited to essential staff and media, there is optimism for a community celebration to commemorate this beautiful new space as limitations on group gatherings change this summer.

Local Leader and Author Jamie Schumacher

Article by Becky Fillinger

Jamie SchumacherJamie Schumacher is the Associate Program Officer for Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC). In that position she works with the Twin Cities cultural and creative districts. She’s also the author of a new book, Butterflies and Tall Bikes, that highlights the Cedar-Riverside/West Bank community. She talked to us about Minneapolis cultural districts and how to explore local communities – it’s like an international vacation - without leaving your home.

Q:  Please tell us more about your master's degree in innovation in nonprofit management. How have you used innovation in the nonprofits you've managed and counseled?

A:  I went back to school for my master’s degree (at the University of Minnesota!) around 2008. I wanted to focus on small nonprofits specifically. By that point I had already been working in the sector for a while and I wasn’t interested in the out-of-the-box standard program, which mostly covers the basics of nonprofit organizational structures. Instead, I did a hybrid. I researched nonprofit boards and studied how they could be more effective, especially for small, grassroots organizations. 

At the time, non-traditional models weren’t as common, and they were (and still are) often overlooked for funding. This is true even though they can serve their communities well, often better, than traditionally structured nonprofits.  

When working with nonprofits, I try to keep in mind that just because something is the traditional way of doing things, that doesn’t mean it’s the best way to do them. We can look to alternative models - or something new entirely! 

Q:  You've done work with Minneapolis’s city-designated cultural districts. What are these districts?   

A:  The city currently has seven city-designated cultural districts.  

• Cedar-Riverside/West Bank
• Central Avenue
• West Broadway
• Franklin Avenue (the American Indian Cultural Corridor)
• Lake Street
• 38th Street
• Lowry North

There are, of course, cultural and creative corridors and pockets beyond these seven, but these are the first ones the city of Minneapolis is including with its cultural district policy rollout. 

Q:  You were instrumental in getting Cedar-Riverside designated as a cultural district. Why was this important to you? What did you learn from your encounters with the residents of Cedar-Riverside?

A:  Cedar-Riverside/West Bank is a cultural district. But before the city began its policy, the neighborhood had already been using this type of language to self-identify for years -“An immigrant hub,” “a global gateway,” a “cultural corridor,” “home.” 

The city’s policy was set to include resources and amenities for cultural districts and spaces that have been left out, or lined out, of resources. 

Cedar-Riverside can get overlooked so often, and it was important to make sure the neighborhood wasn’t left out of that equation. When we weren’t at the table for those conversations, our friends in other districts helped us crash the party to make sure we were included. Council member Abdi Warsame and his staff helped lean on the city and make some noise, to make sure the West Bank/Cedar Riverside was included in the rollout. 

Q:  You're the author of a new book, Butterflies and Tall Bikes. It's part narrative, along with compelling interviews, and neighborhood history in vignette-style chapters that paint a picture of the West Bank Business Association and Cedar-Riverside/West Bank neighborhood. Who is the audience for your book?   What will we learn from reading the book?

With so many voices in it, I do think there’s something for most people to connect with in the pages - so the audience for this book is more general – including somebody who loves Minneapolis, music, or the West Bank. Other audiences would be readers who love history and travel, and experiencing new places. 

One of my reviewers called it “a trip in a book” which sounded almost cliche at the time, but as others read it, I’ve been hearing more of that sentiment. Given the current pandemic travel limitations, I feel like we can all use a little extra travel adventure - even if it’s via the page. 

Q:  Will you do readings of the book? I'm sure many Mill District (and many other local) organizations would love to attend a reading, either in person or via Zoom.

A:  Yes! I’m attaching a graphic that details events and activities for anyone that’s interested, including a listening party for May 27th, when the book will be featured on The Current’s Rock and Roll Book Club.

Q:  Do you have plans to write books about the city's other cultural districts?

A:  Yes! I really hope to. It will likely also be narrative non-fiction, with interviews included throughout the text. I’ve started interviewing my friends and colleagues from the other cultural and creative districts throughout the Twin Cities for this next effort - as well as my parents and other members of my family, most of whom are immigrants to America. 

Q:  Where did your parents emigrate from?

A:  Thanks for asking! Mom from Poland and Dad from Sri Lanka. 

Q:  Do you have any advice for people who might like to write about their neighborhoods?

A: First off, I would say: definitely do it! Story collection and preservation is so important, and I think it’s a way we can pay respect to our elders and those that do so much for our neighborhoods and communities.

I took a class once with Nneka Onwuzurike, a creative colleague and friend. Her class was called Heirlooms, and it was about how we can ethically and authentically write about even challenging family situations. One method she talked about was the collaborative method and how that can make the process respectful and shared, breaking down the power dynamic a bit. So often we think of writing as a solitary thing - something that’s just about the author. But I think, when you’re writing about a neighborhood you have an obligation to make sure to the best of your ability you are representing the neighborhood in an accurate way - ideally the way the neighborhood would like to be portrayed. 

I tried to do this by interviewing a broad cross-section of members from the community. While I do talk about my experience and adventures, they are interwoven with these voices. Residents old and new, business owners past and present. Those I interviewed were able to read and approve of how they were being portrayed, and make sure their words were well represented on the page. They were also invited to review the full book, to make sure their words and interviews weren’t being used out-of-context. 

Q:  That’s a wonderfully inclusive approach to writing about a community. How may we follow your news?

A:  I’m very active on social media, and folks can find me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. I also send out a semi-regular newsletter, which you can sign up for on my website.

zAmya Theater Project announces Homeless Network Newz: Season 5

Via a May 5 e-announcement:

zAmya Theater Project announces the fifth season of Homeless Network Newz — virtual creative performances every other week in May and June, starting May 13. HNN highlights stories, experiences and the creative contributions of people who have experienced homelessness.

zAmya Theater uses creativity, collaboration and stories to build understanding and connection between people who’ve experienced homelessness and people who have not. zAmya aims to inspire people to advocate for short and long term solutions to the housing crisis in Minnesota.  zAmya began creating Homeless Network Newz episodes about zAmya troupe members as a way of using storytelling to build understanding and connection during COVID-19. Learn more at zamyatheater.org/homeless-network-newz.

Episodes are directed by Esther Ouray and edited by Flo Razowsky. Hosted by Corey Walton, featuring troupe members Robert Blood, Marcia Barnes, Annette Bryant, Marvin Howard, Shannon Kemp, Caroline Mannheimer, Ken Moore, Christina Sayers, Sol Moran Sepulveda, and Tahiti Robinson.

In the first four seasons, zAmya Troupe members and guests shared poems, reflections, interviews with community leaders, heartfelt stories, hilarious sketches, current events and not-so-recent news, the impact of COVID-19 on the community, and much more. 

zAmya’s three-year residency on Nicollet Mall sponsored by Hennepin County Library and Minneapolis D.I.D. moved online in early 2020, with HNN expanding into virtual workshops and performances, taking the place of in-person workshops and performances that would normally happen at the Minneapolis Central Library.

Homeless Network Newz — Live Broadcasts

Thursdays at 4pm Facebook Live and YouTube

Episode 1: May 13 — “Mama Mia” 

Episode 2: May 27 — “Rise Up” 

Episode 3: June 10 — “Summer (en)Camp(ment)”

Episode 4: June 24 — “Our Fathers”

Episodes are archived and available for viewing on Facebook, YouTube, and zamyatheater.org.

zAmJam! Virtual Creative Workshops

Those interested in participating in the making of HNN episodes are invited to zAmya workshops. zAmya Theater hosts zAmJam! with Zamya in partnership with Hennepin County Library. This series of online workshops is for people who are unhoused, temporarily sheltered and allies who are ready to play! All are invited to participate.

Tuesdays, 2:30pm-4pm
Meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6127604804
Contact Esther with questions at 612-720-4804 or esther@zamyatheater.org.

Sample HNN Segments

The Story of My Inner Child, a poem by Christina Sayers. Originally Aired: HNN S4 E6, April 15, 2021, "Break Free, Spring"

Advice from a Queen + Kids Say the Darndest Things. Originally Aired: HNN S4 E6, April 15, 2021, "Break Free, Spring"

In Focus with Robert Blood, interview with Christina Woodlee of Bridge for Youth. Originally Aired: HNN S4 E6, April 15, 2021, "Break Free, Spring"

Full Episode, HNN S4 E6 "Break Free, Spring" - In which we hear from the mouths of babes, learn about youth and LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness, assert the transformative impact of treating others as we wish to be treated and so much more. Originally Aired: HNN S4 E6, April 15, 2021.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

About zAmya Theater Project

Through captivating performances and creative collaboration workshops, zAmya Theater Project builds understanding and connection between individuals who have experienced homelessness and those who have not. From understanding and connection, hearts and minds are changed. Solutions are imagined and achieved. Since 2004 the zAmya Theater Project has been changing hearts and minds through performances and workshops in hundreds of Minnesota locations and with many partners including: Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District, Hennepin Theater Trust, Southwest Minnesota Housing Project, The Guthrie Theater, Edina Reality, Salvation Army, Thrivent Financial, Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Annual Conference, Basilica of St. Mary, Augsburg College, and more.

zAmya Theatre Project believes theater can change the narrative of homelessness. Our performances grow from stories lived by participants and crafted by our core artistic members. We share them because we know that if we want to unravel this crisis then we have to unravel the story. Informed by experienced advocates and direct service providers, zAmya is led by professional artists, and employs a core group of actors who’ve experienced homelessness to create the plays, co-facilitate workshops, and guide the direction of the company.

zAmya is a Sanskrit word that means “aiming at peace.” For zAmya, aiming at peace means aiming toward a community with safe, stable, affordable housing options for all. More info at zamyatheater.org.

Mill City Commons Seeks Part-time Program & Events Manager

Submitted by Mill City Commons:

Mill City Commons is a membership organization for neighbors 55+, most of whom choose to live in the Central Riverfront District of Minneapolis. We are a welcoming neighborhood “village” that builds community through an exciting array of programs that connect us with each other, and the resources needed to maintain and support vibrant lives as we age.

Mill City Commons is hiring a part-time Program & Events Manager. The job works with our member-led program committee to coordinate and facilitate the robust calendar of events we offer each month. Approximately 24 hours per week with some flexibility of work schedule and the opportunity to work from home when not managing meetings or events. Click here to see the job description. 

Interested candidates can apply here on Indeed.com or send their resume and cover letter to info@millcitycommons.org. 

Golden Hues of Gold Medal Park by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Mill District resident Ric Rosow

Spring is arriving in fits and spurts. May 2nd was a lovely spring morning. I had been meaning to go out early on such a day to photograph sunrise. Normally I point the camera in the direction of the sun. I work with both exposure and composition to capture the wonderful colors in the sky that sunrise produces. That works well until the sun rises above the horizon. A sun above the horizon presents challenges. The brightness of the sun blows out all detail in the image in the area of sun. Multiple shots with different levels of exposure are then necessary and used to create one image that preserves what one sees during sunrise.  

At the time this photo was taken I had already shot multiple images in the direction of the sunrise. The screen on back of the camera was blinking with black, indicating those were areas of no detail. Perhaps for the first time during a sunrise shoot, I turned away from the sun. In doing so I saw the beautiful colors, highlights, and shadows that sunrise created in Gold Medal Park. Although the sun was above the horizon, it was below and behind the top of the River Place Office Building. As with almost all of the photographs I take I used luminosity masks to edit specific areas of this image based on the luminosity (brightness). of the image. A luminosity mask is like an old-fashioned stencil but more refined. A digital luminosity mask has areas of black which conceal the image, areas of white which reveal the image and shades of gray that only partially conceal and reveal. With a luminosity mask in place, I can selectively edit a specific area of an image without effecting areas to which I do not want to make that particular edit. For instance, I can lower the exposure in an area that is too bright without darkening the other areas of the photo. In this image I used several luminosity masks to adjust contrast and brightness of specific areas.

You can see more of my work at www.ricrosowphotography.com.