Aquatennial Fireworks Photos by Ric Rosow

Thank you to Mill District resident Ric Rosow for submitting these photos of the 2021 Aquatennial fireworks, which were quite spectacular!

Mill City Farmers Market Announces 2021 Harvest Social Event

Via a recent e-announcment from the Mill City Farmers Market

Our annual Harvest Social benefit celebrates community, the bountiful fall harvest and the work of the Mill City Farmers Market Charitable Fund, which expands the Market's impact in the local food community.

This year’s smaller, more intimate gathering will take place in the striking Mill City Museum Courtyard which rises from the ruins of the Washburn A Mill, a National Historic Landmark. Enjoy a craft cocktail, bountiful harvest supper, and live music performance.

 

Sunday, September 12

5:00 - 7:00 PM

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Proceeds help us continue our work to grow a just, local, sustainable food system and our mission to support a healthier community through partnerships, educational programming, and support for organic farmers and local food producers.

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Purchase Tickets (or make a donation if you are unable to attend!) 

IDS Center Celebrates Grand Reopening of the Crystal Court

Via a July 22 Press Release from ICR:

Accesso, a fully integrated investment manager and operator of multi-tenant office buildings and multifamily properties, today unveiled the newly renovated Crystal Court, Minneapolis’ central gathering place at the famed IDS Center. The grand reopening ceremony featured remarks from Mayor Jacob Frey and Steve Cramer, President and CEO of the mpls downtown council; Deb Kolar, General Manager at Accesso, who has been with the IDS Center for nearly 30 years; and Peter Hendee Brown, Acting Principal with consultant New History.

The renovation was thoughtfully designed in collaboration with local architects and consultants Perkins&Will and New History to honor the Crystal Court’s 50-year legacy, while ushering it into a new era of providing Downtown Minneapolis with a destination where people from all walks of life can come together to deepen their connections with the community. The updates, which were completed by general contractor Greiner Construction, include collaborative seating areas with modular furniture and benches designed by Dimensional Innovations; an enhanced grove of overstory trees rising directly through the granite floor to form a tall, healthy canopy of greenery; and a new infinity edge water feature that visually and acoustically fosters a sense of park-like serenity.

Kolar said, “I am truly grateful for the support we’ve received from the Minneapolis community and our partners during the entire renovation process, and I could not be more excited to finally unveil the newly renovated Crystal Court. The Crystal Court is such a special part of Minneapolis’ culture and history, so it was very important to us that the updates made remain authentic to its spirit and original intent. After a very challenging year for our community, we are all thrilled to celebrate the reopening. I look forward to seeing this space full of people again and to introducing exciting new retailers including Noa, a new restaurant that will open this fall.” 

Frey said, “The IDS Center is an iconic centerpiece of our skyline and a beacon of the unique energy generated by residents and businesses of Downtown Minneapolis. The reopening of a renovated Crystal Court is emblematic of the many new beginnings taking place across our city. Whether you’re heading downtown to support your favorite restaurant, pick up fresh produce at the Nicollet Farmers Market, or enjoy some spectacular fireworks this Saturday for the Aquatennial, it’s time to come back downtown – we are open for business.” 

In addition to the opening remarks, the Crystal Court hosted performances from prominent community artists including pianist Nachito Herrera; the Loring String Quartet, an international ensemble based in the Twin Cities area; chalk art by local artist Shawn McCann; free caricature illustrations; and live interactive art by Juxtaposition Arts – the local youth arts program that designed the murals featured on the temporary walls during the construction process. Further, as a token of gratitude to the greater Minneapolis community for its steadfast support of the Crystal Court over the past 50 years, the IDS Center held random drawings throughout the event with prizes including Minnesota Twins tickets and gift cards to the property’s retailers, restaurants and Hennepin Theatre Trust.

About IDS Center

IDS Center, considered the centerpiece of the downtown Minneapolis skyline and a landmark for business and commerce in the Twin Cities, is a 1.42 million-square-foot, 57-story Class A office tower, urban park and retail center located at the core of the downtown Minneapolis skyway system. It is conveniently located at the core of the skyway system for the Minneapolis Central Business District (CBD) and provides easy access to parking, light rail stations and dedicated bus routes. This distinctive property also includes nearly 2 million square feet of mixed-use space; a two-story retail center; the 19-story, four-diamond Marquette Hotel; and an enclosed eight-story urban park. The Crystal Court has been referred to as “one of America’s best indoor spaces” by the Star Tribune for its vibrant environment and ability to host a wide range of events such as concerts, performances, blood drives, sports broadcasts and other gatherings.

About Accesso

Accesso is a full-service, vertically integrated commercial real estate investment manager, owner and operator that aims to provide superior returns to its U.S. and international individual and institutional investors. Accesso’s focus is on acquiring office and multifamily properties in non-gateway metropolitan statistical areas, representing the fastest growing metropolitan cities and premier suburban submarkets throughout the U.S. Accesso’s property portfolio includes 34 office properties covering 14.5 million square feet, and the company has two ground-up multifamily properties under development. Its affiliate, Accesso Services LLC, provides proactive, cost-efficient property management services with an owner’s mindset. Accesso Partners LLC is headquartered in Hallandale Beach, FL. and has offices in Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and Minneapolis.

About Perkins&Will

Perkins&Will, an interdisciplinary, research-based architecture and design firm, was founded in 1935 on the belief that design has the power to transform lives. Guided by its core values—design excellence, diversity and inclusion, research, resilience, social purpose, sustainability, and well-being—the firm is committed to designing a better, more beautiful world. Fast Company named Perkins&Will one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies in Architecture, AIA MN honored the Minneapolis Studio with the 2019 Firm Award, and industry rankings consistently place Perkins&Will among the world’s top design practices. With an international team of more than 2,700 professionals, the firm has over 20 studios worldwide, providing services in architecture, interior design, branded environments, urban design, and landscape architecture. Partners include Danish architects Schmidt Hammer Lassen; retail strategy and design consultancy Portland; sustainable transportation planning consultancy Nelson\Nygaard; healthcare technology planning firm Genesis; and luxury hospitality design firm Pierre-Yves Rochon (PYR). For more information, visit www.perkinswill.com.

About New History

New History creates innovative solutions to increase the use and viability of existing and historic sites and structures. The firm offers a dynamic and integrated team of historians and licensed historical architects with nationally recognized expertise, as well as professionals with specialized experience in historic preservation, real estate development, preservation regulations, and the financial framework for reuse. Our distinct services and expertise provides clients with real strategies, exceptional project management, historically and culturally relevant design development, and regulatory guidance to achieve successful outcomes. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, New History works with clients throughout the Upper Mississippi River Corridor and beyond.

About Greiner Construction

Founded by Wolfgang Greiner in 1989, Greiner Construction delivers the gold standard for interior buildouts, expansions, new construction, and building repositioning. As an employee-driven, customer-focused company, Greiner serves clients in commercial workspace, healthcare, legal, financial, industrial, hospitality, education, non-profit, multi-unit residential and other industries. Over the last three decades, Greiner has built millions of square feet of space for local and national clients who understand the value of well-designed, innovative environments that enhance brands, attract, and retain top talent and build culture. Learn more and view the Greiner portfolio at greinerconstruction.com.

Off the Shelf: The Secret Reading Lives of Local Authors Revealed

Via a recent e-announcement from Friends of the Hennepin County Library

In his famous advice to writers, William Faulkner said, “Read, read, read...Just like a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! You'll absorb it.”

Writers are some of the most voracious readers among us, so it’s no wonder that they’re always getting asked, “What are you reading right now?” Well, if you’ve ever wanted to know what’s on - or, more importantly, off - their reading shelves, the wait is over.

Introducing: Off the Shelf, a series of written interviews where local authors answer your most pressing questions about their writing, their reading, and everything in between. Start by exploring interviews with beloved authors Peter Geye, Diane Wilson, Michael Kleber-Diggs, and Kim Heikkila today, and stay tuned for more interviews with your Minnesota favorites to come!

Read the interviews!

Water Works Pavilion Opens Today, July 19

Indoor pavilion and Owamni restaurant will be open daily

The Water Works Pavilion and Owamni by The Sioux Chef restaurant open today, Monday, July 19! The two-story park pavilion and visitor center is located at 425 West River Parkway. Building hours are 4-9 pm today through Wednesday, July 21, then 11 am-9 pm daily July 22 through Aug. 31.

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) and Minneapolis Parks Foundation partnered on the 7,800 square foot. mill-remnant embedded pavilion as part of the surrounding Water Works site, which opened to the public on May 20, 2021. Water Works was made possible through generous Twin Cities individual and institutional supporters to the Parks Foundation’s $18.1 million RiverFirst Capital Campaign.

"The Water Works Pavilion drastically improves an area of our park system visited by millions of people each year by offering a range of accessible resources while honoring Indigenous history at this sacred riverfront site,” says Al Bangoura, Superintendent of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. “I’m excited for people to experience the building and enjoy everything The Sioux Chef has to offer. It’s a great place to rest, refresh, hydrate, celebrate, eat and learn.”

The first floor of the new park building features a welcome desk staffed by the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB), accessible bathrooms, a water fountain and water bottle filling station, and the Lenzmeier Family Foundation Classroom,  which will be available to rent for events or meetings in the future.

A view of Owamni during a soft open event July 15.

The second floor of the building hosts Owamni, a new all-season restaurant from The Sioux Chef serving dine-in and take-out Indigenous cuisine. Online reservations are available at www.owamni.com. The Sioux Chef also plans to create events and educational opportunities to elevate Indigenous voices as part of its larger mission to promote Native American cultures, honor plants and natural resources, and foster a vibrant Indigenous food movement. To learn more, please visit The Sioux Chef website.

“With the opening of the Water Works Park Pavilion and Owamni, Minneapolis once again has a place to gather on the banks of the Mississippi within the Minneapolis parks system,” notes Tom Evers, Executive Director of the Minneapolis Parks Foundation. “This moment is the culmination of years of work and dedication and an extraordinary fundraising effort. As public life in Minneapolis returns after the past year, we will have an extraordinary new place to gather.”

The building offers supportive features like a wudu foot washing station and an adult-sized changing table to support use by seniors and people with disabilities. The pavilion and site meet B3 sustainability guidelines for energy efficiency, emissions and air quality, bird detectable glass, landscape treatment, and material sourcing.

“It's great to open the building after seeing so many folks out enjoying the outdoor spaces, trail connections and the Nature Play Lab at Water Works this summer," says Jono Cowgill, President of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. "I'm thrilled to see The Sioux Chef open Owamni and am proud we're partnering with them at this important and historic site."

The three-acre grounds of Water Works at Mill Ruins Park overlooks St. Anthony Falls and the Stone Arch Bridge. It's designed to reveal layers of untold stories, in acknowledgement of the location as both a spiritual place that has shaped cultural and economic connections for Indigenous people and immigrants, and as the birthplace of Minneapolis’ milling history.

The Lenzmeier Family Foundation Classroom will be available to rent for meetings, events or special occassions in the future.

Pavilion visitors will enter via West River Parkway through an arched glass doorway into the two-story atrium. A public elevator and stairway in the lower river level of the pavilion will help accessibility between the upper and lower levels. The staircase was built with reclaimed Douglas Fir beams salvaged from the Fuji Ya restaurant that operated at the site from 1968 to 1990. Minneapolis-based HGA Architects & Engineers was the lead architect on the pavilion.

Building and Site History

People have gathered at Owámniiyomni (St. Anthony Falls) for thousands of years. It was a prime place for encampments by the Dakhóta, Ho-Chunk, and Ojibwe due to the proximity to a place of spiritual power, traditional routes, and locations for harvesting foods such as maple sugar and cranberries. After the Euro-American settlement of the cities of St. Anthony and Minneapolis, Native peoples continued to stay at the Falls through the 1860s, when they were forcibly relocated to reservations. Today, this area is still a sacred destination for Native people across the country. 

Minneapolis grew around industrial development on the Mississippi River. Loggers gathered for work at the city’s saw mills, then some of the world’s largest flour mills were built, harnessing the power of the river as the city continued to grow.

The pavilion showcases carefully excavated mill remnants from the Bassett Sawmill, which was built in 1870 and burned in 1897, and Columbia Flour Mill, which was built in 1882 and collapsed in 1941. The decline of riverfront industry in the mid-20th century was followed by a central riverfront revitalization, led by the Fuji Ya restaurant.

When it opened in 1968, Fuji Ya was the first new building in an abandoned industrial area of Minneapolis, spurring the beginning of a riverfront redevelopment period that continues to this day. Fuji Ya moved in 1990 and the MPRB bought the site in an era of riverfront park development that saw the Stone Arch Bridge transition from railroad to pedestrian and bike use, an expansion of trails on West River Parkway and the development of Boom Island Park. Wooden beams salvaged from the Fuji Ya building were reused to build the stairway between the two floors.

Water Works is part of the RiverFirst Initiative, a effort supported by the MPRB and Minneapolis Parks Foundation to transform the once-industrial Mississippi Riverfront as it flows through the heart of Minneapolis into a welcoming place for all people through improved habitat and miles of new interconnected parks and trails. Other RiverFirst projects include Hall’s Island, an island and gravel beach that was restored in 2018 after it was destroyed by lumberyard expansion in the 1960s; and the 26th Avenue North Overlook, located a few miles upriver of Water Works and completed in May 2021.

After a Year and a Half COVID-driven Hiatus, the Mill City Singers Perform at Music in Kelly Park

Submitted by Mill District resident Ric Rosow

The Mill City Singers performed for the first time in over a year and a half at Music in Kelly Park in Apple Valley on Friday, July 16, with J.D. Steele and the MacPhail Community Youth Choir. 

J.D. Steele leading the Mill City Singers.

J.D. Steele leading the MacPhail Community Youth Choir. 

The Mill City Singers program is made possible by local nonprofit, Be That Neighbor.

The Pure Water School of Dance Now Open in the Northrup King Building

Beverly Tipton Hammond of the Tipton Hammond Arts Gallery (formerly Berries on the Vine) recently announced the opening of The Pure Water School of Dance, located in Suite 261 in the Northrup King Building.

Summer Session 2021 Class Schedule: 

Children’s Ballet (Ages 5-9)

10 Week Session – Saturdays, 10-11am

July 24 - October 2

Attire: Black leotard & pink or white tights. Pink or Brown Ballet Shoes.

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Afro-Modern Dance (Teens & Adults)

10 Week Session – Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30pm

July 14 - September 22

Attire: Leotards, tights, or loose-fitting comfortable clothing, i.e. sweatpants & t-shirt.

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Registration & Fees

Class Registration: $25

Single Class: $15

10 Week Session Full Pay $120 ($12/per class)

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Classes taught by Beverly Tipton Hammond, Founder/Director, 443-527-6118.

Register on PayPal to tiptonhammond@yahoo.com.

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Beverly Tipton Hammond is an ordained minister, choreographer, actress, singer, and songwriter. She began dancing at the age of 5 at the Washington School of Ballet. She continued her training as dance major at SUNY Purchase, where she studied, Graham, Limon, and Cunningham modern technique. Beverly has danced with the Baltimore Dance Theatre, Eva Anderson, the Cultural Arts Institute, Deborah London, and the Turn Out dance Company, Vanessa Jackson Johnson.

In Minnesota she studied at the Children’s Theatre in Minneapolis and the Minnesota Dance Theatre. She founded the Kingdom Dance Ministry in 1996 and opened the first Pure Water School in Baltimore in 2012. Since moving to Minnesota in 2016, she has become a member of Theatre 55 and opened an art gallery with her husband A. Drew Hammond in NE Minneapolis. Now as a resident of Minnesota, she is laying a new foundation for this school. Ballet and Modern Dance will be offered for students ages 5 to adult!

Unusual Sunday Morning Sight in Gold Medal Park

We've lived by Gold Medal Park for nearly 12 years  - and this is a first. Will be interesting to learn the story behind this one.

Minneapolis Craft Brewers Heading to Duluth for July 31 All Pints North Event

Via a recent e-announcement:

Festival to bring thousands of craft beer fans from around the region to Duluth on July 31

On Saturday, July 31, more than 100 MN craft breweries and brewpubs will gather at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth to share their best summer beers and a few surprises with craft beer fans from around the region. All Pints North is one of Minnesota’s biggest beer festivals, and it exclusively features Minnesota breweries and brewpubs.

Attending from Minneapolis: 612 Brew, Able Seedhouse and Brewery, Bauhaus Brew Labs, Boom Island Brewing Company, Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative, Dangerous Man Brewing Company, Fair State Brewing Co-op, FINNEGANS Brew Co, Fulton Brewing Company, Inbound BrewCo, Indeed Brewing Co, Insight Brewing, Lakes & Legends Brewing Company, Modist Brewing Co, Pryes Brewing Company, Sociable Cider Werks, Surly Brewing Co., The Freehouse, Town Hall Brewery and Utepils Brewing Co.

The festival is put on by the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, a nonprofit association dedicated to supporting Minnesota’s craft breweries and brewpubs. “This festival celebrates summer with the best the craft beer industry has to offer. Attendees can explore the state's craft beer offerings in one afternoon, participate in various activities, and soak up the sun on the shore of Lake Superior,” said Guild Executive Director Lauren Bennett McGinty.

Attendees can sample unlimited locally-made craft beer, seltzer, cider, and non-alcoholic beverages from more than 100 MN breweries and brewpubs from across the state. The fest will also feature local small businesses, food trucks, and musical acts. Tickets and other event details can be found online at www.mncraftbrew.org/event/all-pints-north.

The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 2000 and is made up of more than 165 Minnesota brewery members. The Guild showcases the talent of Minnesota’s craft brewers and promotes Minnesota’s brewing industry by sponsoring festivals and special events, including Winterfest, the MN Brewers Cup, the State Fair’s Brewed in Minnesota exhibit, and Autumn Brew Review. The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild’s mission is to promote, protect, and grow a robust Minnesota craft brewing industry by building a healthy beer culture and community that allows for independent brewers, industry stakeholders, and craft beer fans to thrive.

Out of the Box Opera Announces July 23 & 24 Performances at the Canopy Hotel

Out of the Box Opera recently announced a new performance, Night at the Opera Night on the Town, taking place in and around the Canopy Hotel’s Umbra restaurant, lounge and lobby. Singers will move throughout these areas, making the audience feel like a part of the show. 

Performers will include singers soprano Siena Forest, tenor David Walton, and baritone Nicholas Davis with pianist Carson Rose Schneider.

To make a dinner reservation click here.

MSP Film Society to Screen the CatVideoFest 2021 at St. Anthony Main Theatre, July 25

CatVideoFest is a compilation reel of the latest and best cat videos culled from countless hours of unique submissions and sourced animations, music videos, and classic internet powerhouses. CatVideoFest is a joyous communal experience, only available in theaters, and raises money for cats in need through partnerships with local cat charities, animal welfare organizations, and shelters to best serve cats in the area.

St. Anthony Main Theatre, 115 SE Main Street, Sunday, July 25 at 1:00 PM

10% of the proceeds will benefit Feline Rescue.

Aquatennial to Set Sail July 21-24

The Official Civic Celebration of the City of Minneapolis Offers Traditional and New Events, Free and For All Ages

Aquatennial, the Official Civic Celebration of the City of Minneapolis, is getting ready to set sail with two dozen events taking place from Wednesday, July 21 through Saturday, July 24. This year’s schedule of events is filled with traditional Aquatennial favorites and an array of new activities with the majority located in and around downtown Minneapolis. All events are free and open to the public.

“We are excited to welcome everyone to Aquatennial this summer, as we are leading the way back to enjoying collective urban experiences together,” said Leah Wong, vice president of external relations, mpls downtown council. “Whether it is the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade, Target Fireworks (a top 5 annual display in the country), group fitness activities, shopping local makers, a Twin Cities River Rats show or listening to live music, we know there is something you and yours will love. We can’t wait to see you downtown.”

From the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to Peavey Plaza, Midtown Global Market to the Mississippi Riverfront, Nicollet to Mill Ruins Park, the 82nd Aquatennial will provide fun opportunities for all ages including its flagship events the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade and Target Fireworks.

“Aquatennial is our Official Civic Celebration and a summer staple here in Minneapolis, and we are thrilled to return to celebrate together this year,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “From our world-class culinary scene to views along the river and so much more, we invite you to enjoy everything our city has to offer. Whether you make every Aquatennial or this is your first time joining, there’s always something new to try downtown, and we can’t wait to welcome you for this year’s events.”

The schedule and the proximity of the activities make Aquatennial a walkable and bikeable experience throughout the four days as many of the festivities take place throughout downtown and at or near the riverfront, the birthplace of our city.

“Aquatennial is an annual tradition in Minneapolis, a time that offers fun ways to gather and enjoy outdoor spaces together,” said Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board Superintendent Al Bangoura. “We enjoy having Aquatennial events in our park system each year, and we’re excited to welcome everyone back to enjoy their favorite events again this July. Events will take you along the Mississippi Riverfront to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and there is something for everyone at Aquatennial while enjoying some of our city’s beautiful outdoor spaces.”

Here are some of the highlights of the 2021 Minneapolis Aquatennial*. A full schedule of events can be found at aquatennial.com/events.

Flagship Events

CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade
Wednesday, July 21 at 7:30 p.m.
Nicollet between 12th Street and 4th Street

The CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade will illuminate downtown Minneapolis along Nicollet with parade units, floats, displays, and marching bands through the heart of downtown. The parade will begin at 12th Street and run to 4th Street.

Target Fireworks
Saturday, July 24 at 10 p.m.
West River Parkway near Portland Avenue

The Target Fireworks are considered one of the Top 5 annual fireworks displays in the country. Come early for Aquatennial Pre-Fireworks Festivities along the riverfront on West River Parkway near the Stone Arch Bridge beginning at 6 p.m. Live musical entertainment will include the Command Steppers, Dred I Dread, and Annie Mack. The world-famous Zambelli Fireworks team spends approximately two to four hours per each minute of the display to ensure that the display and music are perfectly synced.  

The 2021 Minneapolis Aquatennial schedule is as follows*:  

Wednesday, July 21

Aquatennial Blood Drive at Peavey Plaza, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Lunchtime Lawn Games at Peavey Plaza, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Pianos on Parade Performance at Peavey Plaza, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade, Nicollet between 12th Street and 4th Street, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 22

Downtown Thursdays along Nicollet and throughout downtown, all day

Nicollet Farmers Market & Makers Market - Nicollet between 6th and 8th Streets, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Aquatennial Blood Drive at Peavey Plaza, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Lunchtime Lawn Games at Peavey Plaza, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Jam at Peavey Plaza, MNSpin live music performance featuring Twins of Franklin, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

Pianos on Parade Performance Presented by PNC Bank featuring James “Cornbread” Harris at Peavey Plaza, 5 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Concert at the Commons featuring Jessica Vines (425 Portland Ave. So.), 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Aquatennial Workout Party with YWCA of Minneapolis at Peavey Plaza, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Twin Cities River Rats Aquatennial Water Ski Show on the Mississippi River (West River Road between Plymouth and Broadway bridges), 7 p.m.

Minnesota Twins vs. Los Angeles Angels at Target Field, 7:10 p.m.

Friday, July 23

The Alley Project at Mixed Precipitation (between FAIR School & The Chambers Hotel), 4:30 p.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Alchemy 365 at Aquatennial at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (726 Vineland Pl), 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Twin Cities River Rats Aquatennial Water Ski Show on the Mississippi River (West River Road between Plymouth and Broadway bridges), 7 p.m.

Minnesota Twins vs. Los Angeles Angels at Target Field, 7:10 p.m.

Saturday, July 24

Upper St. Anthony Falls Lock and Dam Open House (1 Portland Ave), 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Twin Cities Carifest on (West River Road between Plymouth and Broadway), 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Jonny Pops Pop In - Ice Cream Social at Midtown Global Market (920 E. Lake St), 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

City of Lakes Market (in partnership with The Black Market) at the Chicago Mall on West River Parkway between Guthrie Theater and Mill City Museum, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Pre-Fireworks Festivities -- live music at West River Parkway near Portland Ave., 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Minnesota Twins vs. Los Angeles Angels at Target Field, 6:10 p.m.

Target Fireworks, West River Parkway near Portland Ave., 10 p.m.

Volunteers Needed

The Aquatennial relies on dozens of volunteers to help make the festival a success. Sign up online to be part of the Aquatennial Volunteer Program and assist with such events as the CenterPoint Energy Torchlight Parade and Target Fireworks. Perks included! aquatennial.com/volunteer/

June 2021 by the Numbers from Cynthia Froid Group

Downtown real estate market update from Cynthia Froid Group:

Upcoming West River Parkway Closures Related to Bridge Work

Via a June 29 e-announcement from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

Sections of West River Parkway have been impacted throughout the last two years due to numerous construction projects. The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board appreciates the public's understanding and patience while these critical projects to repair and improve public infrastructure are performed. Please stay away from areas where work is taking place and follow all posted detours and signage.

10th Avenue SE Bridge and Bridge #9 Repairs

July 12-Sept. 1, 2021

The parkway will be closed to motor vehicle traffic between 13th Avenue S and 22nd Avenue S from July 12-September 1, 2021 for the rehabilitation of 10th Avenue SE Bridge by the City of Minneapolis and repairs to Bridge #9 (the bike/pedestrian bridge serving the Dinkytown Greenway) by the University of Minnesota. Trail traffic will be rerouted onto the parkway while bridge work continues above the trails. Paradise Charter Cruises will be accessible via 22nd Avenue S.

3rd Avenue Bridge Reconstruction

4th Avenue N-Portland Avenue; mid-late August

The parkway and adjacent trails are scheduled to close between 4th Avenue N and Portland Avenue in mid-late August. The closure is necessary for the reconstruction of the 3rd Avenue Bridge by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. More details about this closure will be shared later this summer as the bridge reconstruction project progresses. Please visit the Hwy 65/3rd Avenue Bridge Reconstruction website for more details.

DMNA Seeks Additional Vendors For August 3rd National Night Out in The Commons Park

The Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA) has a large National Night Out event planned for Tuesday, August 3rd, 5pm-9pm, at The Commons Park, located at 425 Portland Avenue (between 4th and 5th Avenues and Park and Portland Avenues). 

They've got a great start on securing vendors, music and food trucks, and are looking for additional vendors to provide giveaways, games, etc. Please pass along this information to any businesses or organization you think would be a good fit as a participating vendor for this much anticipated event.

EDITORS NOTE - updated info provided June 30th:

Free Fitness Classes Coming to the Minneapolis Convention Center Plaza

Via a June 24 e-announcement:

Every Saturday from July 17 through August 28, the newly redesigned MCC Plaza will host Summer Fitness on the Plaza

The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is introducing the public to its newly redesigned Plaza this summer by offering free outdoors fitness classes every Saturday from July 17 through August 28. A variety of local fitness businesses have been invited to take their classes outside and onto the Plaza – bringing seven weekends and 15 classes from which to choose.

Each Summer Fitness on the Plaza event is free to the public. There is no limit on the number of events that fitness enthusiasts may attend.  

• When: Every Saturday from July 17 through August 28
• Where: Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55403 (The Plaza is located across the street from the main entrance on 2nd Avenue.)
• Price: Free
• Registration: Click here
• More Information: Click here for the complete schedule and class details

“We’re excited to welcome the community to our beautiful new Plaza through these free fitness classes,” said Minneapolis Convention Center Executive Director Jeff Johnson. “We talk a lot about the Minneapolis Convention Center being a ‘relationship building,’ and Summer Fitness on the Plaza is one of the events that helps strengthen the bonds between the MCC and the surrounding community”

ABOUT THE MINNEAPOLIS CONVENTION CENTER

The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is owned by the City of Minneapolis and marketed through Meet Minneapolis. The 1.6 million square foot facility features 475,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 3,400 fixed-seat auditorium, 87 meeting rooms and two ballrooms. The MCC is GBAC STAR, LEED and GMIC certified and works to serve its constituencies and stakeholders as the face of Minneapolis to visitors. Through its efforts, the MCC helps sustain more than 8,600 jobs in the community.

ABOUT THE MCC PLAZA

Located on the south side of downtown with beautiful skyline views, the 2.5-acre Minneapolis Convention Center Plaza is built on top of an underground parking deck and includes a sweeping manicured lawn perfect for picnics and lawn games, surrounded by a lush urban meadow planted with prairie grasses and wildflowers that is downtown’s largest pollinator refuge. Designed by Damon Farber Landscape Architects for environmental sustainability, the Plaza includes native tree and plant species, and irrigation utilizing the Convention Center’s stormwater capture system. The project is pursuing SITES certification as one of the first projects in the region. SITES is a sustainability-focused framework that ushers landscape architects, engineers and others toward practices that protect ecosystems and enhance the mosaic of benefits they continuously provide our communities, such as climate regulation, carbon storage and flood mitigation.

Recording of the June 23rd Third Avenue Bridge Project Update Webinar

MnDOT hosted a virtual construction update for the Third Avenue Bridge restoration project on June 23rd. The 35-minute recording of that webinar is below. Visit the project page for more information.

Public Art Installation at Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District up for a Prestigious CODAaward - Your Vote Can Help Them Win!

A public art installation in the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District is among the top 100 finalists for a prestigious CODAaward; given to those who successfully integrate commissioned art into interior, architectural or public spaces. From June 18 - 30, public voting is open! The two artworks that receive the most votes will receive a People’s Choice CODAaward.

The centerpiece of this historic Minneapolis building’s lobby is the atrium art installation. It is a sculpture designed to evoke the image of flour falling from a sifter in homage to one of the local historic industries. This delicate installation consists of nearly 200 strands that are 100 feet in length with a series of bronzed and stainless metallic square elements within the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis, a conversion of the historic Advance Thresher/Emerson-Newton building from office to hotel by DLR Group.

CODAworx is a creative online platform that connects artists, de­sign­ers, and fabricators with municipalities and developers who commission artwork. The organization continues an active presence in shaping public arts in the U.S. and around the world. Their annual CODAawards is an international competition given to those to excel in integrating commissioned artwork into interior, architecture, and/or public spaces. Design categories include Landscape, Residential, Healthcare, Commercial, Institutional, Liturgical, Public Spaces, Transportation, Hospitality, and Education. Cindy Allen (EIC, Interior Design), Malene Barnett (Founder, Black Artists + Designers Guild), and Frances Bronet (President, Pratt Institute in New York City), are among the eighteen jurors, who have spent weeks reviewing and scoring all 374 entries to narrow down the Top 100. They will agree on one winner in each category to create the 2021 CODAawards winners circle, in addition to the two People’s Choice CODAawardees that the general public will select.

Mill District Artist Kathleen Franzen Featured in Book Illustrating Minnesota's Threatened Boreal Forest

Mill District resident Kathleen Franzen is one of 10 Minnesota botanical artists featured in Art on the Edge of the Boreal Forest: Alternative Futures for the trees, birds and insects, a science and art book including articles by Lee Frelich, Ph.D., director of The Center of Forest Ecology at the University and Gerald J. Niemi, Ph.D. and Professor Emeritus in the Department of Biology, University of Minnesota-Duluth.

The book includes 83 renditions of original art. In addition to Kathleen, the Minnesota botanical artists include Vicki Barth, Wendy Brockman, Marj Davis, Nancy Gehrig, Debra Greenblatt, Julie Martinez, Mary Anne O'Malley, Kathy Reeves, and Bruce Wilson. Their work highlights specific aspects of 10 trees of the boreal forest identified by Lee Frelich that are undergoing slow and silent but significant change due to disturbances caused by fire, invasive insects and stressful climate conditions.

Threatened birds of the boreal forest were identified by Gerald J. Niemi. Insects associated with the trees of the boreal forest were identified by Jana Albers, DNR Forest Health Specialist. 

Art on the Edge of the Boreal Forest is available online from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target and BookBaby. Sales proceeds go to The Center of Forest Ecology and Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth.

SINGULA Exhibit at Gamut Gallery Opens July 16 Featuring Muralists from Mexico, Chicago and Mpls

Via a recent e-announcement from Gamut Gallery

Singula (adj.) derives from the Latin word, singulus, meaning single or separate; each one being individually unique and particular, possessing its own essence. As individuals experiencing and interpreting distinct realities– from our physical surroundings to our imaginations deep within the subconscious realm; Singula honors the distinguishable and rare elements that continuously shape our identity and understanding of the world.  

Singula is curated by Rodrigo Oñate and features muralists he has invited from Mexico, Chicago and Minneapolis, all whom incorporate whimsical characters and dream-like imagery to explore their cultural origins and storytelling practices that embolden critical connections across identities. Through a combination of colors, textures and intricate shapes and figures, this collection of muralists reveres the accessibility of public spaces to create vibrant and eclectic works that connect directly with the community. By highlighting everyday human experiences and marginalized narratives, this exhibition affirms street art is a powerful form of expression and solidarity among communities, stimulating the imagination and activism necessary for transformative change. 

We hope this work engages the viewer to reflect upon their own innermost identities and the dreams that we carry with us throughout our lifetime. This Summer, we invite you to enter the gallery filled with environments most commonly found in our flights of fantasy.

MEMBERS ONLY PREVIEW NIGHT:

Thursday, July 15 / 6-8pm
Meet & greet with Twin Cities with curator & artist Rodrigo Oñate 

Reserve your spot or become a member today!!
• Memberships required, book your FREE pre-sale today
• Members may purchase a guest pass to bring a friend for $7

PUBLIC OPENING NIGHT:

Friday, July 16 / 6-9pm • $7, FREE for members
Singula will feature muralists Los Calladitos, 2MIL, Lelo Zaa and Roco Drilo from Mexico, (sub)urban warrior, Liz Flores and Elloo from Chicago, Chuck U and Joy Spika from Minneapolis, all whom incorporate whimsical characters and dream-like imagery. Curated by Rodrigo Oñate aka Roco Drilo.
• Pre-sales available and recommended • Entry will be available at the door

Elliot Park Art Walk & Makers Market

Saturday, July 24 / 11am - 3pm • $6.50
Tour times at 11:30pm, 12:30 pm, 1:30pm & 2:30pm with Live painting in Gamut's Courtyard.
FREE pop-up makers market at Gamut featuring Twin Cities Makers and Icy Icy Baby shaved ice treat truck!

Experience historic Elliot Park neighborhood through a comedian-led tour from the Theater of Public Policy. Learn fun facts about the neighborhood, check out historic landmarks, and explore experiences in the Elliot Park Arts Quarter featuring Gamut Gallery, Fades Of Gray Inc. Bee Ink Tattoo, Rose Salon & Segue Coffee Shop.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

The creation of characters and fantastic worlds are the universe that defines the work of Rodrigo Oñate (Roco Drilo). Originally from the city of Queretaro, Mexico, Roco embarked on his career as a self-taught plastic and graphic artist, influenced by the pop culture of the 80s, comics, graffiti and various artists representing Mexican art. By extracting himself from his context and looking at it from the outside, he found a better appreciation and understanding of Latin American culture, thus conceiving a style with a contemporary and modern vision of Latino folklore, mixing techniques that since his career have gained great relevance as in graffiti or pop art. 

Los Calladitos (The Silent Ones) was founded in 2015 by Ariadna Galaz and Jorge Peralta. When Ari and Jorge began working together they gave themselves Los Calladitos as a nickname because they believed that the work is more valuable than words. Passionate about their work and improving the environment through art, Los Calladitos creates unique characters based on legends, myths or real people representing the communities they visit, encouraging the viewer to be a part of their own community. Currently, they are painting murals around Latin America and helping communities through art education, and hosting workshops. Their studio is located in the quiet colonial town of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

Creator and promoter of street art in Mexico, LELO is known for his colorful artwork, in small and large format, using spray, acrylic, latex paint and natural pigments. In his art, Juárez explores and recreates the worldview of native towns, with elements of his personal identity. He uses street art and graffiti as techniques of orality and image, aimed to build a universal language. His work continues to revolve around the worldview and cultural context of the native towns; articulated with the medical background he acquired at the veterinary school. In this way, he combines empirical and scientific knowledge.  

2MIL is a Mexican street artist, born in Morelia, Michoacán. He has dedicated his work to the appropriation of urban spaces with muralsl since 2015. With a varied and eclectic style, he represents through Mexican folklore an iconic character of his work, a personal reinterpretation of the torito de petate dance, one of the most traditional emblems of Morelia.

Elloo is a Chicago based artist who is known for her bright colored compositions. Her work is inspired by her love for sweets, subconscious memories and fairytales. Her bright colored characters are a blend of her imagination and dark dream-like scenes. Behind every piece she creates: Life is Sweet. Currently, she resides in Pilsen and continues to paint from her imagination bringing her characters to real life. Her main focus is to create a body of work that is unique and that allows the viewer to dig into their subconscious and develop their own interpretations of what they see.

Liz Flores is a painter and muralist based in Chicago. Her work experiments with how the human condition—with its interplay between emotion and memory—can be represented abstractly. She engages everyday human experience and the female body by using shape, color and the human form as a mode of visual storytelling.  Her mural work can be found throughout the Chicagoland Area and New York City. In addition to working with private and commercial clients, her work has been exhibited in galleries throughout Chicago and is driven by her interests in womanhood, belonging and inner life.

(sub)urban warrior is an artist from the suburbs of Chicago, who views each piece as an opportunity to share her passion with the surrounding communities, and to leave something behind that will be thought provoking, emotionally significant, and mentally stimulating to the viewer. Influenced greatly by nature, something that is very relatable to all walks of life, (sub)urban warrior combines multiple creatures and sometimes humans in a whimsical playful way that oftentimes exudes an ethereal feeling. Her original creations are called beasties, all knowing omnipotent beings that are eternal and roam the earth, bringing a message of love and strength and stability to those around them. While her characters are known for their sweet nature and strong presence, incorporating bright colors and vibrant tones communicate a joyful message that is uplifting and smile inducing.

Joy Spika is a black identifying artist with a mixed cultural background. She incorporates her personal stories into all of her work. She is a mixed media artist with a deep love for aerosol murals, painting, and textile art, who believes in the power of art to heal and connect people. From a young age she has used art as a fundamental form of expression and communication. Joy finds Inspiration through her intuitive understanding of the world around her and those things that aren’t always visible. Joy uses her art as a channel to retrieve messages from her ancestors and guides. Art has always been her primary spirituality. The characters she creates are often exaggerated or dream-like versions of her current emotions and still images of what her internal life looks like. In this show she is featuring paintings that have her deep truths hidden in them through symbols and the characters she creates. She wants to hold space for the complicated and non-monolithic nature of the lives of BIPOC, fat, femme and alternative humans. 

Chuck U is a painter, illustrator and muralist from Minneapolis, Minnesota, who specializes in whimsical yet intricate works that celebrate the unusual and unexpected. His pieces are populated with fanciful flora, fauna and unusual landscapes that are playful yet masterful and aim to spark imagination and joy in the viewer. Chuck’s prints utilize a combination of traditional pen and ink technique with digital coloring applications that are printed digitally or as limited edition screen prints. His paintings and murals are approached with a similar sensibility but take on a life of their own transporting the viewer with scale, color, and the skillful line work that has become his signature.

GALLERY & GIFT SHOP OPEN HOURS 

FREE open hours: Wednesday - Friday, 11am - 6pm; Saturday 11am - 4pm

Gamut Gallery is open without capacity restrictions for in-person viewing of the exhibition. We are available by appointment, please request an appointment 48 hours in advance. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for further details and information regarding the event.