Sherman Associates Breaks Ground on Ladder 260 and O2 Apartments

Above - Richard Kiemen, Sherman Associates; Wendy Ethen, Guaranty Title; Jessica Welk, Sherman Associates; Mayor Jacob Frey, City of Minneapolis; Councilmember Lisa Goodman, City of Minneapolis; Councilmember Michael Rainville, City of Minneapolis; Chris Sherman, Sherman Associates; George Sherman, Sherman Associates; John Hanley, AFL-CIO HIT, Carole Mette, Sherman Associates; Aaron Krasnow, RBC Capital Markets; Fire Chief Bryan Tyner, City of Minneapolis. Fire Station 1 is in the background. Photo: Sherman Associates 

Sherman Associates breaks ground on Ladder 260 and O2 apartments, delivering affordable and market-rate housing to Minneapolis

New Minneapolis Fire Station 1 completed as first phase of the redevelopment

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Sherman Associates broke ground on two apartments in its multi-phase redevelopment in the Mill District neighborhood. Ladder 260 is a 6-story, 90-unit affordable low-rise apartment located at 260 Portland Avenue, and O2 is a 22-story, 240-unit market-rate apartment tower located at 250 Portland Avenue.

Sherman also celebrated its completion of the new Minneapolis Fire Station 1 for the City of Minneapolis located at 285 5th Avenue South. The fire station is the first phase of Sherman’s $161 million redevelopment of the majority of the city block.

The redevelopment is on an approximately 1.75-acre site in Minneapolis, which was formerly a vacant surface parking lot and the former Minneapolis Fire Station 1 that was built in 1909. Ladder 260, O2, and Minneapolis Fire Station 1 are three separate projects that were simultaneously developed.

Sherman acquired the parking lot from a private seller and in working with the City of Minneapolis learned that Minneapolis Fire Station 1 was outdated and too small to serve the growing needs of the Mill District. In a public-private partnership, Sherman and the City of Minneapolis collaborated to develop a new and larger Minneapolis Fire Station 1 to serve the needs of the neighborhood and optimize the layout of the city block for Sherman’s Ladder 260 and O2 projects.

The new Minneapolis Fire Station 1 is approximately 19,500 square feet and consists of an apparatus bay to house fire trucks and a connected two-story structure providing office space, sleep areas, common areas, locker rooms, and rooftop patio. The $12 million fire station was financed by American National Bank and the City of Minneapolis.

Last month, the Minneapolis Fire Department moved into its new station after the City of Minneapolis purchased it from Sherman. Sherman will acquire the old fire station from the City of Minneapolis later this month and will demolish it to prep the site for Ladder 260.

Prior to the demolition, Firefighters For Healing will retrieve significant elements from the building to incorporate into its new Transitional Healing Center opening in early 2023, located a few blocks away in Sherman's Moment apartment tower. Sherman will also gather remaining items from the old fire station to incorporate into Ladder 260. 

Ladder 260 provides a rare new construction affordable housing product to downtown Minneapolis. Amenities will include a hotel-like lobby and leasing center, fitness room, 6th floor lounge and rooftop deck, bike storage/parking, and available storage units. Walk-up units on the street level offer a unique unit type for the market and will enhance the vibrancy along South 3rd Street. The location has proximity to transit by light rail and bus routes and is highly walkable and bike-friendly.

Seventy-two (72) units will target household incomes at 60% AMI, 13 units at 50% AMI, and 5 units at 30% AMI. There will be 18 units receiving project-based housing vouchers, with 5 of the units reserved for High Priority Homelessness.

Ladder 260 is a $34 million project financed by RBC Community Investments, American National Bank, National Bank of Commerce, JLL, AFL-CIO HIT, Minnesota Housing, and the Metropolitan Council LHIA.

The O2 market-rate tower features smart home technology in every unit including smart thermostat, locks, and lights that allow residents to easily monitor energy usage in their homes. An underground parking garage provides 196 parking spaces, 241 bicycle parking spaces, resident storage, and electric vehicle charging stations. A surface lot provides 26 parking spaces for residents and guests.

O2 provides approximately 5,500 square feet of street-level commercial space along Washington Avenue to build on the activation in the area. The $115 million O2 apartment tower is being financed by a bank group led by Associated Bank.

Energy usage for Ladder 260 and O2 is partially offset by energy production from a solar garden located in Carver County.

This mixed-use, mixed-income development speaks to the environmental sustainability and social impact components of Sherman’s ESG Commitment. Ladder 260 and O2 provide high-quality, long-term, mixed-income housing to the residents of Minneapolis. The location in the Mill District is transit-oriented with proximity to downtown providing residents with access to mass transit, biking, and walking; and will revitalize the neighborhood and create a more vibrant community.

Construction will be completed on Ladder 260 in the spring of 2024 with O2 being completed in the fall of 2024. Kraus-Anderson is the general contractor and ESG Architecture & Design is the architect for the redevelopment. Sherman and Kraus-Anderson are currently working together on the 10-story Moment mixed-use project in Minneapolis’ Elliot Park neighborhood.

July 9 at the Mill City Farmers Market

Our shopping basket from the July 9th Mill City Farmers Market.

Tera Forge Knives sharpened my knife while I finished shopping. They'll return to the Market on August 13th, so make a note to bring your dull knives on that date.

Mary Dirty Face Farm debuted at the July 9th Market with fruits and jams, and boy was Rachel Henderson popular! She'll be back for the July 23rd Market.

Sonny's Ice Cream hits the spot on a sultry Saturday morning. 

Fresh potatoes for homemade potato salad.

Coming soon - heirloom tomatoes from Nistler Farms. They displayed a few teasers at the July 9th Market.

Looks like this shopper could use a market basket, like the one below from Ink 'N Flower:

Always a long line for Café Palmira coffee!

New from Horner's Corner - Maple Cream. Per Stephen, store in the fridge and zap a few seconds in the microwave before spreading on toast. I didn't make it that far - it's so good I ended up eating it by the spoonful right out of the container.

Crescent Moon in Dark July 4th Downtown by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Close to midnight I walked outside to view the downtown skyline. A waxing crescent moon was moving  across the sky to set behind downtown buildings. In the dark of night it is difficult to capture the foreground elements without blowing out the color in the moon to bright white. So I concentrated on retaining the colorful lights of the downtown buildings while keeping the deep rich color of the moon. At the same time fireworks were going off close by, their explosions echoing loudly off the adjacent buildings.

See more of my work @ricrosowphotography.com and Tres Leches Art Gallery.

Weekly Events at Peavey Plaza July 10 – 16

Green Minneapolis is excited to host these events, free and open to all!

YWCA Minneapolis Yoga on the Plaza

Tuesday, July 12 from 5:30-6:30pm

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Flow into summer with FREE yoga classes at Peavey Plaza (weather permitting). Bring a water, mat and towel. Members and nonmembers are welcome to attend. Nonmembers that attend receive a FREE three-day trial fitness pass to any of our three fitness locations. Plus, join YWCA Minneapolis as a member for just $15! Registration recommended

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Minnesota Orchestra: Summer at Orchestra Hall

Friday, July 15 from 6:45-7:45pm

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Summer at Orchestra Hall is a new take on the Minnesota Orchestra’s traditional summer festival, celebrating the Orchestra’s home in the city and its proximity to the revitalized Peavey Plaza. The community is invited to participate in special food experiences and free entertainment by outstanding local performers at Peavey Plaza. Complete list of upcoming performances.

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Children’s Theatre Company Story Theatre 

Saturday, July 16 at 12-12:30pm & 12:30-1pm

Join Children’s Theatre Company for summertime fun at Peavey Plaza! Through imaginative play, collaborative storytelling, music, and family engagement, we’ll explore beloved children’s books together. Laugh, dance, and discover along with your family and friends.

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Minnesota Orchestra: Day of Music

Saturday, July 16 from 12-11pm

The International Day of Music features performances on multiple stages in and around Orchestra Hall, celebrating many genres of music for all ages and featuring a free outdoor performance by the Minnesota Orchestra led by Chia-Hsuan Lin on Peavey Plaza at 8:30 p.m., hosted by Summer at Orchestra Hall Creative Partner Jon Kimura Parker. Learn more.

For a complete calendar of our Peavey Plaza Performing Arts Series, visit greenminneapolis.org/events.

4th Street Reconstruction Project Update - July 8

4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees, and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.

What's Happening Next Week? 

Roadway reconstruction continues on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access is maintained between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave.

• Crews are planning to continue landscaping, sign installation, and lane striping on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave.
• Sidewalk repairs are being completed between Marquette Ave. and 4th Ave. S

*Please note that the construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances. 

What to expect during construction?

• During roadway construction, 4th St. will be closed to through traffic between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained from 2nd Ave. N to 1st Ave. N. 
• Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction. Be aware of your surroundings when walking or biking near the construction zone. 
• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.

Upcoming Events

4th Street Weekly Stakeholder Meeting 

Weekly project newsletters are sent out weekly and virtual stakeholder meetings occur bi-weekly. Join us at the next stakeholder meeting to get project updates, talk with project staff and get your questions/concerns answered.

Upcoming Stakeholder Meetings:

July 15, 9-9:30 a.m.

July 29, 9-9:30 a.m.

Teams Meeting: Click here to join the meeting

Stay connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/  

Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction

Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project - July 7 Update

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

Hennepin Ave. will be reconstructed between 12th Street and Washington Avenue. The City will reconstruct the pavement from building face to building face, including improvements to public and private utility infrastructure, and improved space for pedestrians, bicycles, transit, and vehicles.

Latest Project News

Concrete work is winding down for the project with only a small portion of the  6th St intersection remaining including the ped ramps and bike way connections in this intersection.

What's Coming Up 

Irrigation work will begin next week on the last two blocks between 5th and 7th.  The last lane of paving in the 6th St intersection will be completed early next week with the remaining ped ramps and bike lane connections following.

New signals and light poles will arrive in August.

For more information please see attached update. Hennepin_Update_Vol98.pdf

Contact Info

For more information on this project contact: 

Project email: hennepinCM@minneapolismn.gov

Phone: 612-255-4049

Website: www.hennepindowntown.com 

Art at the Bridgewater Hosts 20th Rotating Exhibit “Two Hundred Six” through July 29

Submitted by the Bridgewater Lofts Art Committee

Walk into the Mill District’s Bridgewater Lofts and the first thing you might notice is the quantity of original art that graces its interior common spaces. Several pieces were purchased by the condo association for its permanent collection. Others are part of an established rotating exhibit program that showcases local artists from a wide variety of disciplines, from abstract oils and watercolor landscapes to sculptural works in bronze, clay and other natural materials. Four shows a year are produced, and the current exhibit, Two Hundred Six, demonstrates the depth and diversity of the Minnesota arts community.

Nebula — Martha Bird

Some of the largest and most striking pieces in the show are the creation of sculptural basket weaver Martha Bird, whose “Nebula” inspired the exhibit title. Commenting on the work, Bird noted that the sculpture, a French technique known as Perigord, contains 206 individual pieces of rattan, coincidentally the same number of bones in the human body.

Sea Floor — S. Catrin Magnusson

S. Catrin Magnusson takes inspiration from another natural structure, the diverging oceanic plates that comprise the deep trench in the Atlantic Ocean, also known as the mid-Atlantic ridge. But it is more than physical separation that the artist evokes in her large-scale felted creations. “I express my own personal timeline of emigration from Sweden to the United States,” says Magnusson. “The distance between my two countries, cultures and family inevitably continues to grow each year.”

Immigration Series — Brenda Litman

Emigration is also a touchpoint for Brenda Litman. Her seven-painting series of abstracts looks at the variety of ethnicities cultures and races that make up the American melting pot. She filters her subjects through the rhythms of nature: seasonal change and the life cycle. In Litman’s view, “All who live in our nation inhabit a garden, a rich mosaic of entwined blossoms.”

Interior and Portrait Series: Maria, Restaurant Entrepreneur — Ann Magnusson

Ann Magnusson’s ongoing series of paintings, “Interior and Portraits,” highlights the kind of structure that is found in the everyday objects with which people surround themselves. Each of her subjects is placed in their carefully curated environment. What emerges is not just a collection of lifeless things, but a deeper understanding of the personality of their owner. When choosing her subjects, Magnusson looks for differences in age, gender, occupation and culture, but also the interconnectedness of the human experience.

Messenger — Gordon Coons

Common Loon — Ellen Moses

Native American artist Gordon Coons and ceramicist Ellen Moses both take inspiration from the natural world. Coons original, hand-pulled block prints featured in the Bridgewater show highlight the role of the Raven as a messenger between man and the spirit realm. Moses creates slip-cast sculptures from original molds and, like Coons, she seeks to capture the interface of humans and wildlife as we work on sharing the natural environment.

Chaos — Marvin Wise

An early developmental speech problem made it difficult for painter Marvin Wise to communicate. Drawing cartoons eased the challenge and allowed him to share stories with others. That skill translated into a full-fledged art career which brought his talents before such luminaries as Maya Angelou and Bishop Desmond Tutu. Wise’s work ranges from the fantastical to the abstract, and his use of bold colors and brushwork is highlighted in the works displayed at the Bridgewater.

Ebullience — Wendy Heimsness

Self-taught artist Wendy Heimsness creates abstract paintings in acrylics and mixed media that burst with color and energy. Feelings and emotions take center stage in works like “Merriment,” “Outburst” and “Ebullience,” but the viewer is always encouraged to place their own interpretations on her array of Bridgewater contributions.

Two Hundred Six runs through July 29 at the Bridgwater Lofts condominiums, 215 10th Avenue S. For more information on viewing/purchase opportunities, contact bnfacommittee@gmail.com.

Preserve Minneapolis' Nicollet Island Walking Tours

Preserve Minneapolis presents 2 walking tours on Nicollet Island:

Nicollet Island - South Tip Walking Tour

Sunday, July 24, 10 – 11:30 am

Nicollet Island information kiosk at E Island Avenue and Merriam Street

Nicollet Island developed as a microcosm of early Minneapolis, with water-powered factories, storefronts, block-long rowhouses, a mansion district and a neighborhood that still stands as a sampler of the 19th century residential architecture. The 40-acre island just above St. Anthony Falls next to downtown Minneapolis is the site of the first bridge anywhere across the Mississippi River (where Hennepin Avenue crosses now), as well as an early railroad crossing that divides the island in two. It is said to be the only inhabited island the entire length of the Mississippi. The South Tip Tour focuses on the falls and the industry it attracted; the Hennepin crossing and the commerce that lined it; and the movers and shakers who populated Grove Street and built grand homes downriver from the railroad tracks. This tour walks about a half mile; the tour guide is Chris Steller. $14, plus $1 processing fee. For information and to register: https://www.preserveminneapolis.org/events/nicollet-island-south-tip-walking-tour-2022.

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Nicollet Island -- North Tip Walking Tour

Sunday, July 24, 11:30 am – 1 pm

De La Salle picnic area at E Island Avenue and Grove Street

Nicollet Island developed as a microcosm of early Minneapolis, with water-powered factories, storefronts, block-long rowhouses, a mansion district and a neighborhood that still stands as a sampler of the 19th century residential architecture. The 40-acre island just above St. Anthony Falls next to downtown Minneapolis is the site of the first bridge anywhere across the Mississippi River (where Hennepin Avenue crosses now), as well as an early railroad crossing that divides the island in two. It is said to be the only inhabited island the entire length of the Mississippi. The North Tip Tour focuses on the  neighborhood upriver from the railroad tracks where people have lived since the 1860s. Native Americans tapped maples there, houses moved within the island and onto the island, a school went up and came down and resident donkeys made friends with visitors into the 1980s. This tour walks about a half-mile; the tour guide is Chris Steller. $14, plus $1 processing fee. For information and to register: https://www.preserveminneapolis.org/events/nicollet-island-north-tip-walking-tour-2022.

zAmya Theater Project Announces "Second Chance" - August 4, 10, and 14

Who deserves a second chance? And who decides?

zAmya Theater Project announces Second Chance, a play that explores second chances through the lens of people experiencing homelessness.

What does it mean to get a second chance in life? Who deserves a second chance? And who decides? Hear the pleas to the Council of Second Chances. You, the audience, get to weigh in on whether or not a second chance is granted. What will you decide?

Originally created in 2018 through a residency with Minneapolis Central Library, Second Chance was made and performed by actors who have experience with homelessness. This summer’s production is directed once more by Maren Ward, and includes music by mick laBriola and Carlisle Evans Peck. The original production team included Carlyle Brown (playwright), Bianca Pettis and Esther Ouray (Assistant Directors), and Leah Nelson (Choreography). 

Tour partners include: Mill City Museum, North Loop Neighborhood Association and Avivo, and the Mpls Downtown Improvement District. 

Performance dates, times and locations:

Thursday, August 4, 7:00-8:00pm

Mill City Museum in the Ruin Courtyard (704 S 2nd Street - indoors if bad weather strikes)

ASL interpretation provided

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Wednesday, August 10, 7:00-8:00pm

Target Field Station Amphitheater (the corner of 5th Street N & 5th Avenue N)

Alternate rain date: Fri. August 12

ASL interpretation provided

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Sunday August 14 (rain or shine!), 2:00-3:00pm

Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival (Nicollet Mall between 6th & 7th)

ASL interpretation provided

Tickets are Free. Registration encouraged (but not required) August 4 and 10. No registration required for the August 14 show.

Second Chance is filled with the real life stories of people who’ve found themselves without shelter in all kinds of ways imaginable. Audiences will be asked to face the part of themselves that may judge the personal circumstances of others as they ask for help. zAmya presents Second Chance as our contribution to raising awareness and advocating for housing justice in the face of Minnesota’s housing crisis. 

With support from the City of Minneapolis Partnership Engagement Fund, this three-show tour also kicks off a project between zAmya Project, North Loop Neighborhood Association and Avivo. The North Loop is Minneapolis’ fastest growing neighborhood, home to both high-end condos and wealthy residents, and several organizations sheltering low income residents in need of housing. Together, we aim to establish a shared vision amongst community members, housed and homeless, of what needs to happen for everyone in their neighborhood to feel safe, have shelter, and ensure support for the most vulnerable.

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 Realty, Salvation Army, Thrivent Financial, Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless Annual Conference, Basilica of St. Mary, Augsburg College, and more.

July 2 at the Mill City Farmers Market

The first cucumbers and green beans of the season from GVY Fresh Produce graced our July 2 Mill City Farmers Market shopping basket.

By far THE best thing I've eaten in a very long time: the pork belly sandwich from Jabà Noodles, with a refreshing frozen watermelon juice. They return to the Market on August 6th, and I sure hope both these items will be on the menu again!

Whether it's bread, freshly milled flour, cookies, pretzels or other goodies - you can count on Baker’s Field Flour & Bread to have your carb fix.

Northwood Mushrooms Family Farm (formerly Cherry Tree House Mushrooms) offers an array of fresh, dried and powdered mushrooms, along with mushroom brownies, mushroom butter and log kits. In other words - all things mushroom!

Friends of the Falls was the July 1 Community Booth. This non-profit is working to a create a place of healing and celebration at Owámniyomni (St. Anthony Falls), and has been hosting a series of Community Conversations on the subject. Learn more on their website and follow them on Facebook to stay in the loop.

Who else can relate to this T-shirt from Shepherd's Way?

Weekly Events at Peavey Plaza July 3 – 9

Green Minneapolis is excited to host these events, free and open to all!

YWCA Minneapolis Yoga on the Plaza

Tuesday, July 5 from 5:30-6:30pm

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Flow into summer with FREE yoga classes at Peavey Plaza (weather permitting). Bring a water, mat and towel. Members and nonmembers are welcome to attend. Nonmembers that attend receive a FREE three-day trial fitness pass to any of our three fitness locations. Plus, join YWCA Minneapolis as a member for just $15! Registration recommended

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MNspin Musician of the Week: Dan Israel

Thursday, July 7 from 12-1pm

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Dan Israel is a longtime fixture on the Minneapolis music scene. He was the first guest on 89.3 The Current’s “Local Show” and has been called “the hardest working singer-songwriter in Minnesota.” He won Song of the Year (for “Come to Me”) in the 2005 Minnesota Music Awards and Songwriter of the Year in the 2006 MMA’s. Learn more about Dan Israel 

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Children’s Theatre Company Story Theatre 

Saturday, July 9 at 12-12:30pm & 12:30-1pm

Join Children’s Theatre Company for summertime fun at Peavey Plaza! Through imaginative play, collaborative storytelling, music, and family engagement, we’ll explore beloved children’s books together. Laugh, dance, and discover along with your family and friends.

For a complete calendar of our Peavey Plaza Performing Arts Series, visit greenminneapolis.org/events.

Northeast Park Summer Celebration on July 11 Commemorates 25 Years of Soccer, Twins Legends, New Playground and More

Big party at Northeast Park July 11, 4-11 pm! Celebrate 25 years of NE/SE Soccer, youth baseball honors Twins legends, dedicate the new playground, plus Movie in the Park, “Field of Dreams” at dusk!

There’s a big park party planned at Northeast Park on Monday, July 11 and everyone’s invited! Festivities kick off at 4 pm and will continue through the conclusion of a special Movie in the Park outdoor screening of “Field of Dreams” that begins at 9:15 pm.

Activities are planned throughout the park, centered near Northeast Recreation Center, 1530 Johnson St. NE.

25 Years of NE/SE Soccer

The Northeast Park Summer Celebration will commemorate 25 years of the NE/SE Soccer program, which was founded at Northeast Park by Sally Jones and Carol Kalberer (Green). 

This program provided opportunities for elementary- and middle school- aged youth to participate in a low-cost, high-quality soccer instruction and leagues in NE and SE Minneapolis. Past, present, and future coaches, players, refs, Board Members and park staff are welcome to celebrate alongside Northeast neighbors.

Playground Dedication

A new ‘adventure course’ playground opened behind Jim Lupient Water Park in June. Located near the new Northeast Recreation Center, this new playground will be dedicated in a short ceremony at 5:45 pm. Bring the kids to check out this super fun new park attraction!

RBI Baseball Twins Legends Tribute and “Field of Dreams” Movie in the Park

A pair of RBI youth baseball games will feature special player uniforms honoring Twins legends Rod Carew, Kirby Puckett, Tony Olivia, and Jim “Mudcat” Grant. Cheer on the teams and then stick around for a special Movie in the Park outdoor screening of “Field of Dreams” that starts at 9:15 pm.

Activities Schedule

4-8 pm: Pop-Up Park activity trailer and staff will be onsite

4-8 pm: Book Buggy gives away free books for youth and families

5:30-8 pm: Free face painting

5:45 pm: New playground dedication ceremony

6-8 pm: Balloon Artist

6-8 pm: WOW Mobile Metal Lab (Art Bus)

6:15-8:30 pm: NE/SE Soccer games

6:30-8:30 pm: RBI Baseball games: Stan Cyson Field hosts 15U Tournament game, Sid Hartman Field hosts 15U NE Mets vs 15U Red Bears

9:15-11 pm: Special Movie in the Park outdoor screening of “Field of Dreams”

Smack Shack's Crayfest Returns to the North Loop August 6th

Popular All-You-Can-Eat Crayfish Block Party Returns to the North Loop August 6th

After a two-year pause due to COVID-19, Smack Shack announced the return of Crayfest, the annual block party in the North Loop, Saturday, August 6. The party will take place on 6th Avenue N, next to the restaurant, from 12:00 – 7:00 p.m. Guests can expect live music, all-you-can-eat crayfish boil, and all-you-can-enjoy beer and hurricanes.

Crayfest began as a way for Smack Shack to further their commitment to serving sustainable seafood. When an invasive species of Rusty Crayfish was identified as a threat in Woman Lake in Northern Minnesota, Smack Shack partnered with local organizations to fish the invasive species of crayfish out of the lake and utilize them at Crayfest. After several years of Crayfest, Woman Lake had been restored and the invasive Rusty Crayfish were depleted. Now, Smack Shack is fishing the invasive species out of other Minnesota lakes, helping to keep the aquaculture clean and healthy.

Crayfest tickets are $75 in advance ($80 at the door). Purchase online at smack-shack.com.

Mayor Frey’s Community Safety Work Group Outlines Strategies for Improving Public Safety, Police Accountability

Excerpt from the City of Minneapolis' June 29 e-newsletter:

On June 27, Mayor Jacob Frey’s Community Safety Work Group outlined recommendations for improving public safety in Minneapolis. The recommendations include strategies for strengthening oversight of the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD), bolstering officer recruitment efforts and accountability systems, and expanding violence prevention and behavioral crisis response programs.

Frey convened the Community Safety Work Group on Dec. 4, 2021, which is co-chaired by Nekima Levy Armstrong, attorney and civil rights activist, and Rev. Dr. DeWayne Davis, lead minister for Plymouth Congregational Church. The 22-member volunteer work group includes community members and experts engaged on the full spectrum of community safety initiatives.

Highlights of the work group’s recommendations include:

• Improving oversight and coordination within MPD, including creating a new leadership position focused on the coordination of community safety related functions within the City enterprise.
• Strengthening MPD’s recruitment and hiring process by implementing a first-in-class police recruitment and training program focused on building a pipeline of future candidates who live in Minneapolis.
• Significantly improving the quality of MPD training with a series of action steps.
• Strengthening MPD’s disciplinary and accountability systems.
• Expanding violence prevention programs and the City’s behavioral crisis response strategy. 

Mayor Frey will consider the implementation of these recommendations in the coming weeks as he prepares to finalize and present his recommended 2023 City budget.

Watch Monday's news conference.

Gamut Gallery Presents "In Your Own Words" - July 22-August 20

In Your Own Words, July 22 – August 20

This July, Gamut Gallery is pleased to welcome nationally recognized artist, designer, independent curator, and adjunct faculty at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) Suyao Tian for her latest interactive solo exhibition, In Your Own Words.

The intimate relationship Suyao has observed between her work and the unique experiences of her collectors is the inspiration behind the upcoming exhibit. Through the liberal use of water in her painting application, Suyao embraces the spontaneity of shapes as they organically unwind across her composition. “My inspiration comes from my childhood memories. I try to think like a child, without the constraints of space and time.” Her choice of vivid color strengthens this notion, illustrating whimsical scenes full of life and movement. In doing so, she encourages the viewer to embark on an exploration of their inner world, interpreting the path her paints take through the lens of their own childlike imaginations. 

During the exhibition, visitors are encouraged to share their favorite pieces from the collection online, along with a few comments about their individual interpretations of her art. “I don’t try to force viewers to understand my work. More importantly, I hope my work can inspire viewers' curiosity and a new understanding of themselves and the world.” Meanwhile, buyers will be offered the opportunity to name their piece upon purchase. In Your Own Words sets out to weave together a narrative echoing Suyao’s recognition that we each autonomously navigate events, demonstrating how experiences color our interpretation of the world around us.

MEMBERS ONLY PREVIEW NIGHT: Thursday, July 21, 7-9pm Meet & Greet with Suyao Tian • RSVP Required • Memberships required, become a member today!

PUBLIC OPENING NIGHT: Friday, July 22, 6-9pm  $10 day of the event, $7 pre-sale - FREE for Members • Pre-sale tickets available, order your pre-sale today! • Entry will be available at the door

ARTIST TALK: Wednesday, August 10, 6:30pm  A multifaceted conversation and a look into the mind of Artist Suyao Tian, hosted at Gamut Gallery. Moderated by Russ White of MPLSART, followed by open Q & A  $10 day of the event, $7 pre-sale • $5 for members • This is 30 person limited capacity event • Pre-sales available and recommended.

Mill City Farmers Market Welcomes New Vendors Dragonfly Bay Garlic Co and Tera Forge Knives at the June 25

Our shopping basket from the June 25th Mill City Farmers Market included garlic scapes and garlic scape powder from Dragonfly Bay Garlic Company. I used them in a pesto with hazelnuts, hazelnut oil, baby kale, cilantro, Friesago cheese, Maazah Aioli, honey and an Indian spice blend.  

Dragonfly Bay Garlic Company debuted at the June 25th Market with fresh garlic scapes and garlic scape powder, along with recipes and other items. We look forward to their garlic bulbs when they return to the Market in August. Per their very informative website, "Our garlic varieties vary in flavor from mild and nutty, to hot and spicy, to sweet and creamy." Learn about their varieties here.

Stephen Aysta of Tera Forge Knives offers “while you shop” knife sharpening during Market hours. His next MCFM date is July 9th, so if you have some dull knives in your kitchen, plan to bring them with you on that date!

First squash of the season!

Amy Britt, MCFM Development Manager (far left), and Martha Archer, MCFM Executive Director (grey t-shirt) engage with visitors.

The June 25th Community Booth was Friends of the Hennepin County Library. The beautiful and inviting Central Library at 300 Nicollet Mall offers an incredible array of services and events.

I load up on Pure Ginger For You juices every week.

Kiss My Cabbage displayed some Pride.

Op-Ed: Reflections on My Life as a Black Prosecutor

Submitted by Martha Holton Dimick. Martha Holton Dimick is a retired judge and candidate for Hennepin County Attorney. 

Martha Holton Dimick

When I was 13 years old in the late 60s there were race riots near my house in Milwaukee. Black people in my hometown and around the country were rising up against the housing discrimination and police brutality that we had been living with since we moved into cities in the early 20th Century. My family lived in fear of Milwaukee Police Chief Harold Breier. With my hair in an afro in imitation of Angela Davis, I told my father I would be going to a protest instead of going to school one day in early 1967. My dad was a stern man, a lawyer who represented poor Black people in the inner city. He took me aside and said “go to school, get an education, become part of the system, and make a difference from within. That’s how you change things.” The Holtons were some of the only Black kids in school that day.

Thirty years later in 1999, I was the only Black female attorney in the criminal division at Hennepin County. During my first few years of trials, judges and jurors frequently assumed I was the public defender. I was called a “sellout”, an “oreo” and every other synonym for race traitor that you can imagine. How can you work with police and against your own people? One time, I got a booking photo of a defendant who was being prosecuted for battery against a police officer. The officer had a scratch on his arm, the defendant was severely battered. I called the police officer into my office and told him I wouldn’t be charging his case. In retrospect, I should’ve gone further, but I was worried for my standing and job security as a young prosecutor. I weighed my father’s words against those of Thurgood Marshall: “You do what you think is right and let the law catch up.” Not charging the case was my compromise, and that was fairly progressive for the time.

In my 13 years as a prosecutor from 1999 to 2012, the paradigm shifted. The law, and especially the office, did catch up. As the crime wave of the 1990s faded out of memory, compassionate prosecution of lower-level offenses became the norm. The “public health approach” to prosecution that is so trendy now across the country has been in practice in Minnesota for quite some time. In Hennepin and Ramsey counties, we are even more progressive than the state at-large. And after George Floyd’s murder, we went further on bail reform, closed a juvenile detention facility, and further scrutinized pretextual traffic stops.

Since then, the paradigm has shifted again. In the last two years, after a sharp rise in shootings and homicides in my neighborhood in North Minneapolis, something interesting is happening. Some of the most passionate activists who I’ve known for years and used to see me as the enemy now thank me for my work as a judge and a prosecutor. Mothers who have children that have gone through the juvenile justice system tell me that there should be more consequences, not less. And less than a year and a half removed from a clear and indefensible police murder of a Black man, most of my Black neighbors voted to keep the police department. These shifts are not the result of hypnotism or campaigning, but a reaction to the real changes in the system and in our community. People who come in contact with the system know what’s happening in the real world.

I still do get called a “sellout” from time to time, though it generally comes out of the mouths of White millennials who haven’t been through the system. And I am more comfortable with my line of work than ever before. I realize that the conflict is not something to shy away from - it is my greatest gift to the profession and the community. I carry Thurgood Marshall’s words alongside those of my father. Do what you think is right, and make sure you keep your seat at the table if you intend on making real change.

Martha Holton Dimick is a retired judge and candidate for Hennepin County Attorney. 

Northeast Parade Returns After Two-Year Absence

Submitted by Michael Rainville, Sr.

If you’ve never been to the annual Celebrate Northeast Parade, it’s a great way to kick off summer with your neighbors. And it was so great to have it back this year after the COVID cancellations of the past two years.

I’ve been enjoying this parade since I was a one-year-old, looking down from my parent's apartment window overlooking Central Avenue. For 19 years, I had the privilege of doing color commentary on the cable TV broadcasts of this parade.

This year, it was a great honor to ride in the parade as a Minneapolis city council member representing Ward 3.

We put together a little highlight video for you. Many thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who make this parade possible.

Video produced by Mike Binkley

Positions Open at the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board

The MPRB Crew Needs You! The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is now hiring for a wide range of summer jobs. Whether you want to gain experience at your first job, or grow your skill set for a future career, they have something for you! Information and applications are online at www.minneapolisparks.org/jobs.

Recreation, coaching, events Assistant Childcare Specialist Event Attendant & Lead Attendant Outdoor Playground/Supervision Recreation Facility Supervision Recreation Program Leader Recreation Specialist - Pop-Up Park Seasonal Event Technician Referee youth and adult sports Sports Official Work outdoors Park Patrol Agent, Part-Time Seasonal Equipment Operator Seasonal Park Maintenance Worker Work at headquarters Customer Service Assistant More jobs with Minneapolis parks To view a full list of job postings and to apply for any opening at MPRB, visit www.minneapolisparks.org/jobs.

4th Street Reconstruction Project Update - June 24

4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview

The City of Minneapolis is reconstructing 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and 4th Ave. S in downtown Minneapolis. The reconstruction will include wider sidewalks, improved crossings, a new bi-directional off-street bike path on the north side of the street, lighting, trees, and planting beds. Construction is underway and is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.

What's Happening Next Week?

Roadway reconstruction continues on 4th St. between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Fourth St. is currently closed to vehicle traffic between 1st Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access is being maintained between 2nd Ave. N and 1st Ave. N.

• Crews continue sidewalk and planter bed work between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave.
• At the 1st Ave. N intersection, crews continue roadway work and paving.

*Please note that the construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

What to expect during construction?

• During roadway construction, 4th St. will be closed to through traffic between 2nd Ave. N and Hennepin Ave. Local access will be maintained from 2nd Ave. N to 1st Ave. N. 
• Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction. Be aware of your surroundings when walking or biking near the construction zone. 
• Expect additional noise, dust, and vibration as crews complete work.

Upcoming Events

4th Street Weekly Stakeholder Meeting

Weekly project newsletters are sent out weekly and virtual stakeholder meetings occur bi-weekly. Join us at the next stakeholder meeting to get project updates, talk with project staff and get your questions/concerns answered.

Upcoming Stakeholder Meetings:

July 1, 9-9:30 a.m. - CANCELLED

July 15, 9-9:30 a.m.

Teams Meeting: Click here to join the meeting

Stay connected

There are multiple ways to get information including email updates and ongoing stakeholder meetings. Visit the project website for more information and to sign up for project updates: www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/fourth-st-n-and-s/  

Provide questions, comments or concerns on the interactive map: https://zan.mysocialpinpoint.com/4thstreetreconstruction

Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774