Ward 7 Update from Council Member Lisa Goodman

This has been an incredible week, one like I’ve never experienced in all the years I have served the constituents of Ward 7.  I have received hundreds of emails and phone calls from people expressing themselves and sharing their thoughts, ideas and feelings about where we find ourselves today.  There is no question that serious change is required, and I believe that change is beginning starting today.

Between the situation with the City Council working remotely, and all of the City Council Members working diligently to respond to the people they represent, there has not been much time for conversations with my colleagues but it is now time for us to roll up our sleeves and sit down to some very serious discussion on how we move forward. 

The Minneapolis City Council along with the Mayor, the Police Chief and the community need to come together, leaving no stone unturned, and consider every possibility on how we can make deep and lasting, systemic change to protect all the citizens of our great City.  Trust in the police department is at an all-time low and incremental changes will not be enough.

As it stands right now, the police union contract is expired, and our Labor representatives along with the cities Executive Committee were already in negotiations regarding the upcoming police contract.  Given that we do not have legal authority to fire the Union President, the city has been working from an important list of reforms as vetted and suggested by members of the community who have spent decades working on police reform issues.   There needs to be accountability for the actions of individual police officers.  Hearing about the number of complaints against Derek Chauvin throughout his career, it goes without saying that inaction is completely unacceptable.  Our police Chief has fired a number of officers in the past 4 years but the binding arbitration provision in the contract has resulted in the arbitrator reinstating several of these officers, that needs to change. I do believe in individual redemption, however, when your job is to Serve and Protect and you repeatedly violate that oath, you are obviously not fit to work in our city, especially with a gun.

It is very telling when the AFL-CIO and the former Minneapolis Police Chief, Janee Harteau are calling for the resignation of Police Federation Leadership.  Former Mayor R.T. Rybak and Chief Harteau have both spoken out on the battles they have fought trying to get any change in the Police Federation.

Another big structural hurdle that needs to be reviewed is the current system for police oversight by the City’s elected officials.  The Minneapolis City Charter currently has the police department under the direction of the Mayor.  The City Council has limited tools available to us when it comes to police policy.  One of the primary tools we have is our authority over budgets and I know that will be a big part of the conversations as we move forward.  This will be a delicate balance because any cuts made cannot have unintentional consequences that could make problems worse and I definitely do not want to see the City lose any of the newly trained recruits, some of the most culturally diverse classes we have seen.

I am also proud to be a supporter of the many alternative/community policing initiatives the City of Minneapolis has put in place in recent years.  Organizations like Mad Dad’s, Mother’s Love, YouthLink and the DID have proven to be an enormous asset in community policing.  They do amazing work and connect directly with people in the community while offering or connecting them to services they need.  We also need to expand the co-responder program.  This has proven to be incredibly helpful as we have embeded mental health professionals into the work of the police department, providing compassionate responses and direct access to resources to people in need.

An additional place that needs change and reform is at the state level.  There are many state laws that hinder the City’s ability for transparency and accountability.   Examples include prohibiting the city form implementing a residency requirement for city employees and gutting our civilian review process, which truly needs strengthening.  I call upon our state legislature to step up and dig into the changes that can be made at that level as they reconvene for the upcoming special session.  It is important that we all put pressure on them, not our own legislators Dibble, Hornstein, Dehn and Champion as they are leading as they can to do the right thing for systemic change and to provide assistance to our community to rebuild and to maintain access to essential goods and services but all the outside legislatures that will voting on these statewide policies.

Throughout my career I have not been someone that rushes to a solution.  Although we need to move quickly, we must also evaluate all options and make certain we have community support.  We need lasting and effective change to provide safety for all members of the community.  I will continue to listen to my constituents and the residents of Minneapolis, look to other cities and organizations that are engaged in this work and I will have extensive dialogue with my colleagues so we will be able to put forward the best possible plan for lasting change.

Today the city council voted on a stipulation agreement with the state Department of Human Rights. That agreement will put forward a number of policy changes that will be in effect immediately and the police chief will be held accountable to ensuring these policies are enacted immediately.  I fully support this action and all council members voted in the affirmative.  I am including a news article below that breaks down the agreement and contains a link to view the actual stipulation agreement.

It’s important for you all to know that the city’s phone lines have been down for almost a week due to cyberattacks and volume.  We had over 3500 voicemails in just 24 hours, most not from constituents and it has slowed down and shut down city systems.  I am so very sorry if you have called and we haven’t been able to get back to you.  In addition, e-mails are flooding our systems from all over the world.  They come in at a rate of 30 or more per minute and its been terribly hard to keep up and sort through constituents who I want and try to respond to and everything else.  I ask for your patience as we attempt to work thought this and if you don’t hear back immediately, as is our goal and what I work to do every day, I apologize.

I encourage people to continue contacting me with their ideas and I also encourage you all to be in touch with state elected officials as change is required at all levels of government to make real change.  In the past week I have seen our community come together in amazing ways.  I have seen and heard the passion around this work that needs to progress, and I have seen people looking out for each other and stepping up to help the community as a whole.  In this I have hope!

In Peace and Solidarity,

Lisa

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City Council Signs Off on Stipulation for Court Order Outlining Immediate Changes for Minneapolis Police Department, Framework for Long-Term State Investigation

June 5, 2020 (MINNEAPOLIS) The Minneapolis City Council approved the terms of a stipulation for a temporary restraining order today outlining immediate changes that must be implemented by the Minneapolis Police Department and a framework for systemic change as part of the long-term investigation underway by Minnesota Department of Human Rights.

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights launched an investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department June 2 after filing a civil rights charge related to the death of George Floyd. The investigation into policies, procedures and practices over the past 10 years will determine if the MPD has engaged in systematic discriminatory practices toward people of color and ensure any such practices are stopped.

The order specifies that MPD and the City must implement the following measures immediately:

• MPD must ban neck restraints or choke holds for any reason within 10 days of the effective date of this order.
• Regardless of tenure or rank, any member of the MPD who observes another member of the MPD use any unauthorized use of force, including any choke hold or neck restraint, has an affirmative duty to immediately report the incident while still on scene by phone or radio to their commander or their commander’s superiors.
• Regardless of tenure or rank, any member of the MPD who observes another member of the MPD use any unauthorized use of force, including any choke hold or neck restraint, must attempt to safely intervene by verbal and physical means, and if they do not do so they are subject to discipline to the same severity as if they themselves engaged in the prohibited use of force.
• Only the police chief or the chief’s designee at the rank of deputy chief or above may authorize the use of crowd control weapons during protests and demonstrations.
• The police chief must make timely discipline decisions as outlined in the order.
• Civilian body warn camera analysts and investigators with the City’s Office of Police Conduct Review  have the authority to proactively audit body worn camera footage and file or amend complaints on behalf of the Minneapolis Civil Rights Department.

The order also commits the City to working with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights on several fronts to build toward systemic change within MPD as part of the long-term investigation.

The City will prepare a report listing all of the State of Minnesota laws that impede public transparency of police data and/or prevent the mayor and police chief and/or impede civilian oversight from disciplining and terminating police officers who do not adhere to Minneapolis Police Department policies and standards. The report is due by July 30, 2020.

Minnesotans with information that can further the investigation into the MPD should contact the Department of Human Rights at mn.gov/mdhr or 651-539-1100.

Public Works Update on Services

Public Works crews are working around the city catching up and cleaning up.

Garbage and recycling service update Collection crews have caught up from service delays. Crews are unable to return for missed materials. Place extra bags or boxes next to your cart(s) by 6 a.m. on your next collection day. Find your collection day.

South Transfer Station

The South Transfer Station will reopen on Friday. Due to COVID-19, only Solid Waste & Recycling customers who have vouchers can use the South Transfer Station.

Streets

Street crews continue to clean up debris and sweep and wash the streets.

Volunteer cleanup support

Crews continue to distribute bags and gloves to volunteers. We will continue to pick up bagged garbage that has been placed at the corners until at least 2 p.m. Friday.

City equipment repair

We continue to inspect and repair City equipment in the right of way such as street lights and traffic signals.

Situational Update as of 12 noon, June 3

• There are 3,402 cases in the City of Minneapolis and 137 deaths. The City is sharing Minneapolis specific daily case counts and demographics through a public facing dashboard at www.minneapolismn.gov/coronavirus/dashboard. The dashboard has been updated to provide more data on neighborhood level numbers of cases, and other demographic data.

• Congregate living facilities in Minneapolis continue to see new cases among residents and while accounting only for 12% of confirmed cases, account for 79% of COVID-19 deaths.

• There are 25,870 cases in Minnesota out of over 265,000 tests completed. There have been 1,086 deaths from COVID-19 in Minnesota. There are 8,738 cases and 633 deaths in Hennepin County.

• There are over 6.4 million confirmed cases worldwide. There have been over 380,000 deaths globally and 1.8 million deaths are confirmed in the US. The US remains the country with the highest number of cases and deaths by a significant margin. A total of 106,696 deaths have been reported in the US.

• The Minnesota Department of Health is recommending expanding COVID-19 testing due to recent mass events, civil unrest and the response to the civil unrest that occurred across the state beginning May 25, 2020.

• Thousands of people may have been exposed to COVID-19 due to the large concentration of people in one area. Identifying and testing individuals who may have participated in a large public event will improve the ability to identify cases and institute appropriate isolation and quarantine measures.

• Testing criteria include people who have participated in any large gatherings including but not limited to protests, community clean up and recovery efforts, vigils, neighborhood meetings (both those with symptoms and those who are asymptomatic). This also includes first responders and others who responded to the events.

• As of June 1, the Governor’s Stay Safe MN order allows limited access to outdoor dining, salons and youth sports practices. The Mayor has issued several Emergency Regulations requiring that masks be worn in indoor public spaces starting May 26 and one that allows for the streamlining of the permission process for restaurants and bars interested in expanding their outdoor dining venues.

Health Incident Command updates

As the Health Department continues to respond to COVID-19, we are applying an equity lens to all our work in conjunction with partners across the City enterprise.

• The Health Department is conducting over 30 case investigations and contact follow-up for individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 per day and has completed over 780 case investigations since May 8. Currently, MHD has 21 investigators and is onboarding an additional 6 this week. Of the over 780 case investigations conducted, 47% were done in a language other than English. MHD will be training 15 individuals from other departments to begin case investigations by mid-June.
• MHD is working on 2 testing events to take place in the Cedar Riverside area but have been pushed to next week because of the civil unrest. Additional community based testing sites may be added to accommodate those who may have been exposed due to protests, community clean-up and other large community events. The state has a list of testing locations searchable by county.
• The Health Department worked with NCR and community partners to provide an estimated 53,000 cloth masks to protesters over the weekend. Many of these masks came from the MN Department of Health. New research published in the Lancet reinforces the message that cloth face mask use combined with physical distancing can reduce the spread of the virus.
• Over the weekend, Health Department staff assisted with symptom monitoring for 373 people who left the homeless encampment because of safety concerns and are staying in hotels primarily in Brooklyn Center. Start Today and Avivo are providing support services to 173 individuals and suboxone is also being provided by Southside Harm Reduction. In addition, two more hygiene stations have been added.
• Health Department staff have used the COVID Emergency Management structure to address food insecurity, help businesses impacted by property damage, and are working on ways to address community mental health in the aftermath of the murder and community unrest. Many staff are pitching in on their own time as community volunteers engaged in protests and vigils, community clean-up and the provision of food and supplies.

• The City specific COVID email address is: COVID19@minneapolismn.gov.

A Message from the Mill City Farmers Market

Via a June 3 e-newsletter from the Mill City Farmers Market

We are grieving with the friends and family of George Floyd and our BIPOC (Black, Indigineous, People of Color) community members who have faced injustice for far too long. Our hearts are with our friends, neighbors and small business owners who have been impacted by the events of the last week, with the peaceful protesters who were injured in their efforts to be heard, and with our country as we work together for much needed justice, equity and peace.

We are heartened at all of the ways our community has come together to support urgent needs. We are proud to be a part of a robust network of organizations working together on food access, health, education and so much more.

At Mill City Farmers Market, we commit to helping grow a just, local and sustainable food system by sharing our resources and collaborating with others for the health and well being of our community. In the past week we worked with our networks to purchase produce from last week's cancelled market and donate it to food shelves. We met with leaders in the local food and food access community to formulate a plan to help provide storage, refrigeration and distribution plans for the outpouring of donations to the community as it heals.

We will be starting MCFM Charitable Fund's Greens for Good produce donation program this weekend. Since 2013, the market has been working with students and staff from Augsburg University, community members and program sponsors at Delta Dental of Minnesota to purchase produce from our farmers and distribute it to families and individuals living in affordable housing communities in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood.

The program normally operates July through October, but there is an overwhelming need for fresh produce at this time due to the closure of most nearby grocery stores.

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With your help, we would like to expand this produce donation program. 

Consider donating $20 for us to buy a market box full of seasonal produce like salad greens, herbs, radishes and cucumbers from our farmers to give to a household in need.

Donate Today

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Read more about our work to bring fresh, local produce to our neighbors and how you can support that work at millcityfarmersmarket.org/food-donation.

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Thank you,

Martha Archer

Executive Director

Mill City Farmers Market & MCFM Charitable Fund

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Preorder groceries for Saturday, June 6.

Shop efficiently and safely by preordering your groceries for Saturday's market. Preorders also reduce food waste and allow our vendors to serve more customers. Learn More & Preorder

Ward 7 Outreach and Update

Via a May 31 e-newsletter from 7th Ward Council Member Lisa Goodman

Just wanting to touch base with you all today as there is such fluidity in everything that is happening it is nearly impossible to stay on top of it all. I was relieved to see that last night’s coordinated response was much more successful then what had occurred on previous nights. The State is currently in charge of law enforcement operations and they are working closely with the City of Minneapolis and a wide number of partners to restore peace.

The curfew is in effect again tonight from 8:00 pm until 6:00 am. I want to reassure residents that we have no intelligence at this time of any residential targets but we are encouraging people to consider the following:

• Remove anything from your lawn that could be flammable or a projectile through a window
• Store dumpsters in your garage or move to hidden area in back yard. Consider wetting down the inside contents if they have to be left outside in view.
• Keep LIGHTS ON and some windows open to hear noises that may be approaching. (use caution with windows that may be easily asked from the ground)
• Keep you cell phones charged
• Have alternative ways to communicate with your neighbors and help them to make a plan in case things do get bad.
• Have garden hoses ready and untangled for possible use.
• If you have fire extinguishers-know where they are located
• Check your flood lights; door lights; KEEP THEM ON.
• Be off the streets at 8:00 p.m.
• Be aware of suspicious activities/groups
• Be aware of large gatherings
• Call 911 if you are witnessing suspicious activity and do not confront them
• Watch local news stations for current information
• If you need to be outside wear headlamp, bright colors and reflective clothing
• Check on each other-especially older neighbors, and the vulnerable.

The City of Minneapolis systems have been under cyberattack and the website may be unavailable. The phone and voicemail systems have also been disrupted so the best way to reach me is by email: lisa.goodman@minneapolismn.gov.

As you might imagine, I am receiving an unusually large number of emails and am working to respond to each and every one, please be patient as it may take me a little while to get back to you. With that said, I am asking that people only reach out with critical issues and questions at this time. 911 and 311 are both up and operational. MPD and the Fire Department are still responding to emergency calls in our community.

I am asking each of you to continue using face masks and practice social distancing, however, please reach out to your neighbors and stay connected. Exchange phone numbers and email addresses and stay in close contact with them and your loved ones. This all seems like a nightmare but we will get through this and my hope is that our community will be in a better place on the other side. Stay calm and take care of your mental and physical health.

In Peace and Solidarity,

Lisa

DMNA Announces Opening of Police Safety Center at The Vicinity

Excerpt from the May 27 DMNA e-newsletter:

Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Association (DMNA) Board Chair Pam McCrea is proud to announce the opening of the Mill District’s Police Safety Center at The Vicinity building on South Second Street and Park Avenue. The safety center will primarily be used by Lt. Grant Snyder and Sgt. David O’Connor of the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD). Both officers are on the “Homeless Initiative” task force which helps homeless individuals access services for housing, chemical dependency, and mental health. The safety center will not be used for effecting arrests, bookings or interviewing individuals. Rather, it is a workspace for Lt. Snyder, Sgt. O’Connor and other MPD officers, and it will provide our community with a visible and approachable police presence.

Current DMNA board member, and former board chair, Joe Tamburino has been working on the safety center project for over 3 years and is extremely happy that it is now open and running. “This is a wonderful development for downtown because it will give us a greater police presence in the neighborhood and a fantastic opportunity for the police to interact with downtown residents,” Joe said. “Hopefully in the late summer or early fall, after the virus subsides, we will be able to have a grand opening at the safety center so the public can see the space, meet the officers, and enjoy some food and refreshments,” Joe stated. “And I truly wish to thank the wonderful board members and volunteers at the DMNA, the fabulous people at Sherman Associates, the dedicated officers of the MPD, and Chief Arradondo for all of their help in making this project happen.”

The safety center will also be very useful to ensure public safety in the neighborhood during the terrific public events that occur in our great city throughout the year, such as the Stone Arch Bridge Festival, the Pride Festival, Northern Spark, National Night Out, and many other wonderful celebrations.

Minneapolis Bike Tour is Moving from September 2020 to May 2021

Via a May 26 e-announcement from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board will not host the Minneapolis Bike Tour in September 2020. The Bike Tour is moving to May 2021, to grow and expand the event. The new date is yet to be determined, but we look forward to sharing details in the coming months. Part of this move will allow us to coincide with Minneapolis Bike Month, create new partnerships and kick off the riding season each spring!

We will continue to update our website throughout the next 3-6 months.

We hope to see you in May of 2021! Thanks for your continued support of the Minneapolis Bike Tour!

10th Ave Bridge Update

Via a May 26 update from the City of Minneapolis

10th Ave Bridge and Watermain Project

This project will rehabilitate the historic 10th Ave SE bridge over the Mississippi River and W River Pkwy. A new water main will be installed under the river as part of the project.

Latest Project News

Construction Update Meeting - Friday, May 29, 2020 at 10:30 am

Project staff will hold a virtual construction update meeting this Friday using GoToMeeting. Members of the public are invited to join the online meeting and hear updates on construction progress and speak with project staff.

Please use this link to join the 10th Ave Bridge Online Construction Update Meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/784924461

You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (224) 501-3412
Access Code: 784-924-461

The bridge was closed on March 30th and the contractor has been actively working on repairs. For more details on the repairs, schedule and bridge deck changes, please see the latest Construction Update or go to the project page 10thavebridge.com.

What's Coming Up

The bridge will remain closed to all traffic including, vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians until Summer 2021.

West River Parkway will have periodic day time closures throughout Spring & Summer 2020.

Work requires the use of heavy equipment that will increase noise, vibration, and dust in work areas.

Access to adjacent apartments and businesses will remain open during the construction activity.

For more information on this project contact:

Bridge Contact: Meseret Wolana, meseret.wolana@minneapolismn.gov or 612-673-3527

Water Main Contact: Peter Pfister, peter.pfister@minneapolismn.gov or 612-661-4906

March 24 e-newsletter from the MSP Film Society

March 24 e-newsletter from the MSP Film Society:

March 24, 2020

CALENDAR FESTIVAL DONATE MEMBERSHIP

Our heartfelt thanks to you for participating in MSPIFF39 Redefined. We did it for you. We can't do it without you. This week, we move back to our Virtual Cinema presentations, which directly benefit MSP Film during this time of social distancing. Virtual Cinema is not part of MSPIFF39 Redefined.   All MSP Film Society staff will be on leave from May 24-31.

Diana Kennedy: Nothing Fancy

Now Playing Featuring extensive interviews with Diana Kennedy and famed chefs José Andrés, Rick Bayless, Gabriela Camara and Alice Waters, Diana Kennedy provides an intimate look at the leading expert on Mexican cuisine. The author of nine acclaimed cookbooks and a two-time James Beard Award winner, Diana is called the “Julia Child of Mexico”, but the feisty cook prefers “The Mick Jagger of Mexican Cuisine."

Military Wives

Now Playing Military Wives centers on a group of women from different backgrounds whose partners are away serving in Afghanistan. Faced with their loved ones’ absences, they come together to form the very first military wives choir, helping each other through some of life’s most difficult moments, and quickly find themselves on an international stage. Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty) directs Kristin Scott Thomas and Sharon Horgan in this feel-good crowd-pleaser inspired by true events.

The Painter and the Thief

Now Playing Desperate for answers about the theft of her 2 paintings, a Czech artist seeks out and befriends the career criminal who stole them. After inviting her thief to sit for a portrait, the two form an improbable relationship and an inextricable bond that will forever link these lonely souls.

Papicha

Available to Watch May 29 Algeria, 1990s. Nedjma (Lyna Khoudri starring in Wes Anderson’s upcoming The French Dispatch), an 18 year-old student passionate about fashion design refuses to let the tragic events of the Algerian Civil War to keep her from experiencing a normal life and going out at night with her friend Wassila.

Theater Latté Da's At Home With Series: Sara Ochs

Reprinted with the permission of Theater Latté Da

This holiday weekend's AT HOME WITH... drops in on Sara Ochs, Theater Latté Da alum and actor featured in many productions including A CHRISTMAS CAROLE PETERSEN, SWEENEY TODD, ASSASSINS, and BERNARDA ALBA, to name just a few. Sara shares some of her favorite recipes, routines, music, books and poems, all to help bring peace and enjoyment during these days of distancing. Enjoy!

Q:  Do you have a daily ritual that's keeping you grounded these days?

A:  My best days have usually included at least one of these: Write a gratitude list and a couple morning journal pages when I wake up. Make a cup of caffeine-free tea. Sip tea. Listen to cardinals singing. Watch my 12-pound dog get righteously mad at the rabbits in our backyard. Walk around our neighborhood. Enjoy people’s gardens and dogs. Breathe in the trees.

Q:  What are you reading?

A:  Cookbooks! I’ve had a hard time staying focused. Cookbooks have matched my attention span perfectly. I’d like to improve my baking and Korean cooking, so I’ve been reading:

Bravetart by Stella Parks. This is the best cookbook I’ve ever read. It’s a history, science, and baking lesson wrapped up in fabulous writing.

Maangchi’s Big Book of Korean Cooking by Maangchi. Maangchi’s blog got me started on cooking Korean food at home. Her recipes taste the closest to what I remember in Seoul, and her how-to videos are helpful AND cute.

My Korea by Hooni Kim. Most of my Korean cooking study comes from blogs or cookbooks in Korean that I clumsily translate. It’s been really interesting to read recipes from a Michelin star chef’s perspective.

Ed Yong’s science reporting in The Atlantic has been my go-to this spring. He’s an incredible writer.

I know previous artists have mentioned N. K. Jemison, and I want to add another YES! Read her books! The Broken Earth trilogy is brilliant. Meghan Kreidler lent me the series (thank you!) and I devoured the whole thing in like two weeks. It’s sooooo good.

Q:  Which work of art - a book, poem, painting, piece of music - provides some solace for you?

A:  Oh gosh, so much has been helping me cope.

Poetry: Alternate Reality, or, A Narrow Opening by the insanely talented (and local!) artist Bao Phi. I’ve read this poem several times since it was published last week, and it gets me in the heart each time.

Music: Covet, HYKOH, Radiohead, Natalia Lafourcade and Questlove’s Instagram

Photography: Drawings for my grandchildren, Sion Fullana, Caroline Yang, Magnum Photos, Daniel Arnold, Pensivite, Gabriele Galimberti, Masanari Kawahara

Misc: Goodmorningtown almost makes me want to get a tattoo. Also, Yedy 101 on Instagram and YouTube. She makes cute drinks and snacks. Sometimes they’re great. Sometimes they’re disasters. She punches the disasters. I like her.

Q:  What's your go-to, binge-watching TV series?

A:  Crash Landing On You on Netflix! It’s a romantic comedy about a South Korean CEO who accidentally gets stranded in North Korea. The show’s writing team included a North Korean man who helped create a nuanced portrayal of North Korea. Even my husband got into this show. I love tv that makes you laugh and cry and care so hard about the characters.

Q:  If you could throw a Fantasy Dinner Party (the only kind of dinner parties we can throw right now!) who would be on the guest list? 

A:  I am not a party person, but I’ve found a lot of comfort in imagining the massive dinner party I want to have when it’s safe to gather in large groups again. I want to make Maangchi’s bossam recipe and my friends’ favorite banchans, get a massive abundance board from Kieran’s Kitchen, make this cake or these brownies, serve tons of soju, and hug and feed every single loved one we can cram into our home.

In dreaming-big fantasy land, I’d love to gather people who could solve all the world’s problems and partner them up with the people that could make their ideas a reality, like behavioral psychologists and master communicators and linguists and politicians and philanthropists and people with connections and so on. They’d eat and drink and develop 100% effective plans that would heal everything – climate change, racism, systemic inequities, health insurance tied to employment, our cultural inability to distinguish charisma from actual leadership, which way to properly hang a toilet paper roll, etc. etc. etc. It would be epic and everyone would take home leftovers that taste even better the next day and there would be no hangovers.

Q:  What are you doing to feel creative or productive during this time?

A:  Not a lot. I filmed a cooking show episode for Theater Mu’s Saturday morning family workshop series and was part of the recording for this beautiful project by Evan Tyler Wilson. I love taking photos on walks. But mostly, I’ve been working to give myself a pass on needing to be creative or productive. I have plans to learn some new instruments, but for now, I’m letting myself wander. Giving myself permission to be anxious. It’s okay. In the past, I’d try to squish everything down and bury myself in work. It wasn’t healthy for me. I also really don’t want to measure my self-worth in how productive I can be during a global pandemic. It’s a work in progress. Some days are easier than others. I’m really enjoying the art that I catch by those who are productive now, and I’m super excited to experience the art that will be inspired by this time.

Q:  Is there a theater production you've seen that you wish you could stream right now?

A:  Can I please stream everything I’ve missed seeing instead?

Q:  Are you cooking? Do you have a favorite recipe to share?

A:  My husband likes banana bread, so I’ve made this and this for him. This Instant Pot Chicken Congee is low key and simple comfort food. We use frozen chicken thighs, frozen shredded zucchini instead of spinach, and 8 cups of stock. These are two of my favorite Korean dishes – Sundubu Jjigae and Bibimbap. We’ve also been getting takeout at several Korean restaurants in town.

Q:  Of the roles you've played at Theater Latté Da, which is your favorite?

A:  Oooooo, I’ve loved them all for different reasons. I think my favorite has been Sarah Jane Moore in ASSASSINS. I love Sondheim’s work, it’s so challenging and smart and funny and flawed and human. I learned a lot researching Sarah Jane Moore and got to tap into places I don’t usually access onstage. Everyone working on the show was wonderful. It was one of those magic theatrical experiences. I’ve been so lucky to have worked on multiple magical shows at Latté Da.

Q:  Would you share a quote that's especially meaningful to you?

A:  I have a terrible memory. People that can quote off the top of their head – how do you do it? 

Q:  Since this is the At Home with...Series, do you have a favorite spot in your home? Would you be willing to take a picture of it that we could share?

A:  This is probably weird, but for me, the best spots in my home are wherever my husband and dogs are at any given moment.

Instead of a place, I’d like to share photos of our dogs in their latest home grooming adventure.

Oscar is the oreo and Jane is the latte. They detest baths and love peanut butter and make me laugh every day.

National Park Service and Mississippi Park Connection's Go With the Flow Newsletter

Via a May 22 e-newsletter from Mississippi Park Connection

Last weekend was a rainy one! Have you ever wondered where all of that rainfall goes when it enters the Mississippi River? Well besides flowing downstream, eastern cottonwood (Populus deltoides) trees take up 50 to 200 gallons of water each day depending on their size and health. That's a lot of water being used and stored in these natural water towers along the Mississippi! Eastern cottonwoods need that much water because they are fast growers. They can grow 13 feet in their first year and as much as 5 feet in the following years, reaching towering heights of 60 to 100 feet when mature.

Eastern cottonwoods are a key member of the floodplain forest. They stabilize river banks and they provide habitat for wildlife, especially the beloved bald eagle. Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) need strong trees that rise over the canopy to support their large nests and to provide a high vantage point to spot prey in the river. Eastern cottonwood produce cottony seeds around this time of year that need to be submerged in water to germinate. Keep an eye out for their seeds as you walk the floodplain forests at Crosby Farm Regional Park and Fort Snelling State Park.

Check out the video above to learn more about floodplain forests from Ranger Jim!

Feeling stuck at home? Looking for one of a kind, scenic views? Ranger Will took us on a journey through the park and back in time on this week's Coffee With a Ranger. This program allows you to look at 3D images that show you what the Mississippi was like 150 years ago. You will also be inspired to learn how to make a DIY 3D viewer to continue your at home adventures. Grab your favorite mug and fill it to the brim before you travel into the past with Ranger Will!

Watch Coffee With a Ranger: Historic 3D Images 

Music and Movies Update from MPRB

Via a May 22 e-newsletter from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

Music in the Parks

Lake Harriet Bandshell Music Performances are cancelled for the month of May and June due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are working on a virtual concert series for everyone to enjoy. Please stay tuned.

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Mississippi Riverfront

Music Performances are cancelled for the month of May and June due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

We are working on a virtual concert series for everyone to enjoy. Please stay tuned.

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Fan Mail Alert!!! In place of gathering together we want to hear your favorite memories and stories from summers past concerts and movies. You can write to one of your favorite artists, the staff, your favorite venue or a loved one you attended an event with. We want to hear about your favorite shows, best moments and milestones that were celebrated at these great outdoor events so that we can all be reminded of what makes Minneapolis Parks great! Share this form to keep the fan mail coming!

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Virtual Concerts. The Music and Movies in the Parks events have moved virtual for 2020 due to COVID-19, and we are excited to highlight our wonderful local artist community and share performances from groups that would have graced the Minneapolis Parks outdoor stages as part of our annual Summer Music in the Parks Series with the 2020 Virtual Concert Series. We will kick the series off on Monday with recorded performances from Rich Mattson and the North Stars & The Belfast Cowboys , along with some special announcements about the series as well.  The remainder of virtual concerts will launch the week of June 1, and new videos will be shared each Monday.    You can subscribe for updates, including the announcement of our virtual concert schedule by clicking here

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Movies in the Parks 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we have to take a pause on the movies that we provide to the community. we are working on a way to bring movies back to the parks as soon as we are safely able to. please stay tuned for more updates.

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Celebrating more than 120 years of free entertainment in Minneapolis parks. Find the complete schedule at  www.mplsmusicandmovies.com.  For schedule updates and weather notifications: Facebook | Twitter

Free COVID-19 Testing Available Across MN This Weekend

Via an e-newsletter from the City of Minneapolis

Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan just announced that any Minnesotan who needs or wants testing for COVID-19 can access free testing at six locations across Minnesota throughout the Memorial Day holiday weekend: Saturday, May 23, through Monday, May 25. Testing is free and Minnesotans will not be asked for insurance cards or IDs. No appointment is needed. Please help spread the word in any way you can!

Just as this virus disproportionately impacts Indigenous communities, people of color, immigrants and refugees, people experiencing homelessness, low-income Minnesotans, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing conditions and disabilities, these same communities often face the most barriers to accessing testing. These six testing sites across the state eliminate many of these barriers so that we can focus on what matters most – the health of all Minnesotans. Testing, tracing, and isolating are the best tools we have to both understand the impact of the pandemic on our communities and to contain it, so we can continue safely navigate this pandemic.

Testing Locations:

• East St Paul - 1530 Maryland Ave E, St Paul, MN 55106
• Minneapolis Armory - 1025 Broadway St. NE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55413
• Moorhead Armory - 1002 15th Ave N, Moorhead, MN 56560
• Duluth Armory - 4015 Airpark Blvd, Duluth, MN 55811
• Faribault Armory - 3000 W Airport Rd, Faribault, MN 55021
• St. James Armory- 521 Armstrong Blvd N, St James, MN 56081

The sites are hosted by the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota National Guard, the State Emergency Operations Center, and the Community Resiliency and Recovery Work Group. You can find more information online here.

MCBA & Loft Literary Center Partner to Offer Online Summer Camps for Youth

Online Summer Camps for Youth Staying close to home this summer? Your imaginations can still venture far! Minnesota Center for Book Arts (MCBA) is partnering with the Loft Literary Center for three virtual camps that combine personal storytelling and bookmaking.

Write Like An Animal with Carolyn Williams-Noren & Madeline Garcia For youth ages 9–11 Monday–Friday, July 6–10; 1–4pm This Book is a Monster with Ellen Fee & Madeline Garcia For youth ages 6–8 Monday–Friday, July 27–31; 9am–noon It’s All About Me with Brenda Hudson & Madeline Garcia For youth ages 9–11 Monday–Friday, Aug 3–7; 9am–noon

Law Enforcement Organizations to Launch 2020 Joint Beats Program in Downtown Mpls

Via a May 22 Press Release from mpls downtown council (mdc):

14th year of Joint Beats collaboration will run through Labor Day.

The mpls downtown council (mdc) and Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID), in collaboration with the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD), Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), and Metro Transit Police Department, today announced that the 2020 Joint Beats partnership program in downtown mpls will launch on Memorial Day.

Now in its 14th year, the Joint Beats program showcases collaboration between MPD, HCSO and Metro Transit PD that increases law enforcement visibility on the streets and helps enhance collaboration with street outreach teams—all in an effort to keep downtown safe.

“Law enforcement cooperation between MPD, HCSO and Metro Transit PD is crucial to the comprehensive public safety strategy the downtown business community supports and relies on,” said Steve Cramer, president & ceo of the mpls downtown council and Downtown Improvement District. “Joint Beats is an important part of an effective proactive safety plan. We believe prevention, outreach and street activation all work in tandem to create a safe environment for our community. Public safety is a top priority, and our partnerships through Joint Beats help insure we are keeping our community safe.”

The 2020 Joint Beats will run through Labor Day. During that span, more beat officers are being placed in downtown’s core to enhance safety during the summer months.

The collective partnership between MPD, HCSO, and Metro Transit PD—along with continued work by the DID Safety Communications Center, DID Ambassadors, and local street outreach teams—work together to add to the safety of our downtown core.

“Working collectively as a downtown community is important, and we value the relationships we have with our local law enforcement partners, the business community and city officials,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo. “These relationships, along with the continued efforts with street outreach teams in our community, provide a robust plan to not only prevent criminal activity but also build relationships and provide appropriate services to those who need them.”

The Mpls Police Department will continue its downtown presence in the 1st Precinct along with its Police Reserves program. The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office will have a substantial presence in downtown Minneapolis through Labor Day. Metro Transit Police will also add additional officers to the downtown beat.

“We have a dynamic downtown that is not only home to more than 50,000 residents and 216,000 daily workers, but it also welcomes millions of visitors each year. It is a vibrant destination in Hennepin County,” Hennepin County Sheriff David Hutchinson said. “Our team is excited to work together with our local partners and help those who live, work and play here have a fun and safe summer downtown.”

As a transit hub that intertwines LRT, bus routes and the North Star commuter rail, downtown is a key destination for Metro Transit riders throughout the year.

“Safety for our riders throughout their transit experience is our top priority,” Metro Transit Police Chief Eddie Frizell said. “Our team is committed to working in collaboration with our local law enforcement partners in helping make downtown a safe and welcoming place through enhanced presence and strong patrol and community connectedness.”

The continued efforts this summer communicates a serious and shared focused on downtown safety, which is the foundation of any successful community. The Joint Beats program works in tandem with City of Minneapolis leadership, the downtown business community, and street outreach organizations to help meet the needs of all who live, work and play downtown.

Bird's-eye View of Water Works Site

Editors Note: Mill District resident Doug Verdier continues to document the progress of the Water Works project.

Thank you to Doug Verdier's neighbor Doug Caldwell for capturing and sharing these photos from an upper floor of RiverWest.

Above, a bird's-eye view of the grassy outdoor area under construction next to the Water Works pavilion building.

Above, view of Water Works pavilion building rooftop. HVAC and mechanicals are on the left, and the air scrubber above kitchen area under construction is on right. The South Plaza sidewalk and ramp to the right of the building are at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and S First Street. 

Minneapolis Named Best City Park System in U.S. on Trust for Public Land’s Annual ParkScore® Index

Via a May 20 Release:

Annual ParkScore^® Index Reports Sharp Increase in Park and Trail Use, but Experts Sound Alarm over Park Inequities and Risk of Budget Cuts 

As the world weathers the COVID-19 pandemic, The Trust for Public Land announced that Minneapolis, Minn., reclaimed its position as the nation’s best park system on the annual ParkScore^® Index, edging ahead of defending champion Washington DC. Saint Paul dipped to third, after placing second last year. The annual ParkScore Index evaluates park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities. 

The nonprofit organization reported national progress for parks this year but warned that city park systems have reached a critical tipping point, as widening inequities in equitable park access and COVID-related budget cuts risk irreversible damage in 2020 and beyond. 

“When stay-at-home orders permitted, people increasingly turned to parks, trails, and public open spaces to connect with nature, exercise, and enhance their mental and physical health. Residents deeply value parks, but continued inequity and the risk of future budget cuts threaten severe damage to the park systems that make many cities so livable,” says Diane Regas, President and CEO of The Trust for Public Land.  

Parks and trails are open in the Twin Cities, although most amenities, such as playgrounds and restrooms, are closed. Minneapolis and Saint Paul have closed more than 40 miles of roads and parkways to motor vehicle traffic to expand safe outdoor access for pedestrian and bicycle use. 

PARKSCORE RANKINGS RELEASED FOR 2020 

According to the Trust for Public Land’s ninth annual ParkScore^® index, Minneapolis, Minn., has the best city park system in the country. The city pulled slightly ahead of 2019 champion Washington, DC, largely because of new park acquisitions and strategic expansions. ParkScore data now show that 98 percent of Minneapolis residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, up from 96 percent last year. Minneapolis has held the top spot in four of the past five years. 

Saint Paul finished third, despite increasing 10-minute park access to 99 percent from last year’s 98 percent. The park system received strong marks on all ParkScore rating factors, but its final ranking was hurt by the city’s median park size of 3.2 acres, which is below the national ParkScore average of 5.2 acres.   

“We are honored by the top ranking and recognize how important parks are to all Minneapolis residents, particularly during this national health crisis,” said Al Bangoura, Superintendent of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. “We remain committed to providing critical park improvements and services, with a focus on the most racially diverse and economically challenged areas of the city. For years we have used equity tools and metrics in establishing our annual budget, capital improvement budget and recreation programming, and we will continue to do so during this pandemic.” 

Boston, Mass., reached the Top Ten for the first time since 2016, landing in ninth place and pushing rival New York into 11th position. Boston and San Francisco, Calif. (eighth place), are the only ParkScore cities where 100 percent of residents have a park of public open space within a 10-minute walk of home. 

Boise, Idaho, defended its title as the best park system for dogs, with a nation-leading 6.0 dog parks per 100,000 residents, narrowly beating Portland, Ore. Irvine, Calif., received top marks for basketball hoops, Madison, Wis., scored best for playgrounds, and Cleveland, Ohio, earned top marks for splash pads and other water features.  

The number of playgrounds increased nationally by 3.6 percent since last year, largely because of “shared use” agreements that open school playgrounds for neighborhood use after school hours and on weekends. The number of dog parks increased by nearly four percent, continuing the trend first reported by The Trust for Public Land five years ago. 

INEQUITY AND COVID-RELATED BUDGET CUTS TOP PARKSCORE CONCERNS 

ParkScore reports significant inequities in park access between large city park systems. For example, more than 98 percent of residents in ParkScore’s three highest ranking park systems (Minneapolis, Washington, and Saint Paul) enjoy 10-minute walk access to a park, compared to 47 percent in the three lowest ranking systems (Charlotte, N.C., Mesa, Ariz., and Oklahoma City, Okla.).  

“Across the United States, 100 million people—including 28 million children—lack access to a quality park close to home. These inequities exist not only between cities but also within them. Low-income neighborhoods do not get their fair share of park investment, which is a missed opportunity to prevent long-term health and climate inequities. At the Trust for Public Land, we are striving for a park-rich future that offers inclusive public space for everyone to lead healthier, happier, lives,” says Diane Regas, President and CEO of The Trust for Public Land.  

“Parks are a critical part of health and wellness—reducing anxiety, stress, and depression and improving physical health—all the more necessary during this public health emergency,” says Sadiya Muqueeth, DrPH, MPH, Director of Community Health at the Trust for Public Land. “Sunlight, fresh air, exercise, and access to nature all have a positive effect on our physical health and emotional wellbeing.”  

Analysts at The Trust for Public Land also warned that the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic will strain municipal budgets and threaten progress on parks.  

“While few cities have announced budget plans for 2021 and beyond, park advocates are gearing up for a fight,” said Bill Lee, Senior Vice President for Policy, Advocacy and Government Relations at The Trust for Public Land. “We encourage the federal government to provide relief to struggling park systems in the next recovery bill. We need our parks, and we will not allow park systems to be collateral damage from the COVID-19 pandemic.”  

Following the 2007-2008 economic crisis, parks budgets were slashed across the nation by approximately 20 percent, which slowed new park acquisition and improvements for several years.  

PARKSCORE METHODOLOGY AND RANKINGS 

ParkScore rankings are based equally on four factors: park access, which measures the percentage of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park; park acreage, which is based on a city’s median park size and the percentage of city area dedicated to parks; park investment, which measures park spending per resident; and park amenities, which counts the availability of six popular park features: basketball hoops, off-leash dog parks, playgrounds, “splash pads” and other water play structures, recreation and senior centers, and restrooms.  

According to The Trust for Public Land, the 10 highest ranking park systems in the United States are: 

Rank City ParkScore (Max: 100)  

 1. Minneapolis, MN 85.3 

2. Washington, DC 83.3 

3. Saint Paul, MN 82.5 

4. Arlington, VA  81.5 

5. Cincinnati, OH 80.6 

6. Portland, OR 79.8 

7. Irvine, CA 79.6 

8. San Francisco, CA 78.9 

9. Boston, MA 76.5 

10. Chicago, IL 76.0 

The lowest-ranking park systems are: 

90. Hialeah, FL 33.1 

91. Baton Rouge, LA 32.0 

92. Fresno, CA 31.8 

93. Lubbock, TX 31.6 

94. Ft. Worth, TX 31.2 

95. Charlotte, NC 29.8 

96. Mesa, AZ 29.0 

97. Oklahoma City 23.8 

Fort Wayne, Ind., and Indianapolis, Ind., declined to participate in ParkScore 2020 and were not ranked. Gilbert, Ariz., was not ranked because the necessary data was unavailable. 

The ParkScore Index uses advanced GIS (Geographic Information Systems) computer mapping technology to create digital maps evaluating park accessibility. Instead of measuring distance to a local park, the rating system’s GIS technology considers the location of park entrances and physical obstacles to access. For example, if residents are separated from a nearby park by a major highway, the ParkScore Index does not count the park as accessible to those residents, unless there is a bridge, underpass, or easy access point across the highway. The Trust for Public Land collaborated with GIS industry leader Esri on GIS design and implementation. 

Municipal leaders use ParkScore information to guide park improvement efforts, studying park access on a block-by-block basis and pinpointing the areas where new parks are needed most. The ParkScore website, www.tpl.org/parkscore, is free and available to the public, empowering residents to hold their elected leaders accountable for achieving equitable access to quality parks for all.  

About the Trust for Public Land 

The Trust for Public Land creates parks and protects land for people, ensuring healthy, livable communities for generations to come. Millions of people live within a 10-minute walk of a Trust for Public Land park, garden, or natural area, and millions more visit these sites every year. To support The Trust for Public Land and share why nature matters to you, visit www.tpl.org. 

Mississippi River Paddle Share Set to Open Saturday, May 23

Via a May 19 e-announcement:

The popular summer recreation program Mississippi River Paddle Share set to open Saturday is back this summer with COVID-19 protocols in place. Opening May 23, Minnesotans can add kayaking on the Mississippi River to their summer bucket list.

Paddle Share is a self-serve kayak program that lets participants rent a boat for several hours and paddle to a destination downriver. Its fifth season in operation brings new routes and a new schedule to the Twin Cities community.

“We are delighted to offer this recreational opportunity to our community this summer. Paddle Share is the perfect social distancing activity, offering a close-tohome adventure,” says Katie Nyberg, Executive Director of Mississippi Park Connection, a major partner of the program. Boat rentals will be available 6 days a week, rather than weekends only.

Paddle Share is a collaborative program developed to increase opportunities for people to get on the Mississippi River. Although the river passes through the Twin Cities, it is under-utilized for recreation. Paddle Share was established by the National Park Service to encourage kayaking on the river and reduce the need to own a boat or a vehicle in order to access the river.

“Paddlers can opt for a variety of river experiences,” says Lauren DeGennaro of the National Park Service. “From skyline views to wildlife watching, each route highlights different aspects of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.”

Designed for experienced paddlers, the program offers a variety of routes on the river above St. Anthony Falls that range from 2 miles to 8.5 miles. Beginner paddlers can also enjoy a more predictable paddle at the Pickerel Lake station in St. Paul.

How it works:

The system is a one-way kayak rental. Users go to the paddleshare.org website to select the route they would like to paddle, make a reservation at least a few hours in advance of when they would like to go, and are sent an access code. Users then go 111 Kellogg Blvd East, Suite 105 | Saint Paul, Minnesota 55101 parkconnection.org to the rental location and use their access code to unlock the designated locker, which contains a kayak, paddle, and life jacket.

Once on the water, there is plenty of time to leisurely paddle and explore sites along the route. Users return equipment to the corresponding locker at the return station downriver before their rental time ends. Since users conclude the ride at a different location, public transportation, bike share, and ride share can help them return to their original location. Participants can also utilize two personal vehicles, one at the start and one at the finish.

Rentals are offered every day of the week except Wednesdays and Thursdays (Thursdays will open in mid-June). Prices are $30 for a single kayak, $45 for a tandem. Rates on Pickerel Lake are $20/$35.

More about COVID-19 protocols:

COVID-19 Protocols: Paddle Share is committed to providing a clean and safe way to recreate. We adhere to these standards based on best practices and CDC guidance.

Social Distancing: Staff and users must maintain the social distancing standard of 6 feet. 

Cleaning: Staff will hand wash all life jackets after use. They will wash all hard surfaces including paddles and kayaks with CDC approved cleaning agents after each use.

Scheduling: All equipment will be used only once in Scheduling: a 36-hour period. This will allow everything to be cleaned and then rest before it is used again. The reservation windows are longer than in previous years, allowing for a more staggered start time.

Info to Help You Prepare for the 2020 Elections

Via an e-notice from Hennepin County:

It may only be May but election season has already begun. We are offering a variety of ways to participate in elections from home this year. Here are a few things you can already do to participate in the 2020 elections.

Register to vote

Register to vote online with the Secretary of State.

File for office

Candidate filing opens today for offices with a potential primary.  Candidates can file for office by mail, email or drop-off.  Candidate filing closes at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2. For more details visit our file for office webpage.

Apply for absentee ballots online

Apply for an absentee ballot online with the Secretary of State.

Some important dates to mark on your calendar:

• June 26 - Absentee voting opens for the primary election
• August 11 - Primary election
• November 3 – Presidential election

Contact us:

- 612-348-5151

- hc.vote@hennepin.us

- hennepin.us/elections 

Theater Latte Da's At Home Series: Kelli Foster Warder

Reprinted with the permission of Theater Latté Da

Our At Home with...Series this week features Kelli Foster Warder, who has choreographed many shows with Theater Latté Da throughout the years. Recently, you may have seen her beautiful work in Bernarda Alba, Chicago, Once, Five Points, and Ragtime among others.

Q:  Do you have a daily ritual that's keeping you grounded these days?

A:  I don’t. I hear it is helpful to have a schedule. But that is not my strength. I thrive on creativity and flexibility. Which is a good thing because I have a full-time job (Kelli is the Director of Education and Producing Associate at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts), freelance work, 2 teenagers and a toddler, a dog and a partner working in the other room. Flexibility is our routine. :)

Q:  What are you reading?

A:  By my nightstand:

Bossypants by Tina Fey

Margaret and Marguerita by Lynn Reiser - a wonderful bilingual Spanish/English children’s book.

We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates

(More time for reading is one of the positive outcomes of this current situation.)

Q:  Which work of art - book, poem, painting, piece of music--provides some solace for you?

A:  It is remarkable to see the arts giving the peace, solace and engagement the world needs right now. Well - the arts always have done that, but it is uniquely poignant and relevant in these times. A couple of special pieces for me right now:

Maya Angelou - always. Her poem Alone speaks to what we are experiencing now.

Sara Groves is a beautiful singer song-writer based in St. Paul. This song of Sara’s, Add to the Beauty, is my heart.

Q:  What's your go-to, binge-watching TV series?

A:  My almost-13-year old son and I are working our way through some good old teenage angst/end of the world epics - Marvel's Runaways and The 100.

My daughter and my husband binge Survivor.

The whole family watches Black-ish together.

For me - I enjoyed Star Trek: Picard, and can’t wait to start Mrs. America.

Q:  If you could throw a Fantasy Dinner Party (since that’s the only kind of dinner party we can throw right now!) who would be on the guest list?

A:  I would love to bring friends together from around the world to eat and laugh and love. But full fantasy? A conversation about the arts with those who have inspired me by giving advice, hope and encouragement would be the best. Tell me what to do Prince, Debbie Allen, Gregory Hines, Gene Kelly, Maya Angelou, Diana Ross, Geoffrey Holder, George C Wolfe, August Wilson, Terrence McNally, Alvin Ailey, Sammy Davis, Jr and Lin Manuel Miranda. Throw in Peter Rothstein, Jamil Jude, Crystal Manich, Shelley Quiala, Maureen Sherman-Mendez, Elissa Adams, Torrie Allen and my late daddy, Billy Foster, and we could change the world. Anyone want in? I keep thinking of more names. I’ll get a bigger table.

Q:  What are you doing to feel creative or productive during this time?

A:  At the Ordway, I oversee our education programs. I have been so grateful to repurpose some contracts with artists to create online educational lessons focused on musical theater for the close to 60,000 students and teachers the Ordway serves every year. Not a plug - just the facts. ;) You will see some familiar Latté Da faces at ordway.org/education/.

I have been so encouraged by the time spent with my own kids supporting their artistic pursuits in dance, drums and guitar.

And, I am going way out on a dream and starting a 4-week playwriting class next week!

Q:  What's a theater production you've seen that you wish you could stream right now?

A:  I like it live. I can wait for it. Plus, when theater is filmed, they rarely shoot the choreography well. They’ll do a close-up on a face while beautiful movement is happening all around that is not in the shot! I need the full view. :)

Q:  Are you cooking? Do you have a favorite recipe to share?

A:  Haha. I have 3-4 staples that I can make and we all can agree to eat it. I have other gifts. :)

Q:  Of the shows you've worked on at Theater Latté Da, which is your favorite?

A:  Of the 11 or so Latté Da productions I have had the privilege to work on I would say - Bernarda Alba has my heart, Once has my mind and Ragtime has my soul.

If you insist on one - it is Ragtime. When Peter entrusted me with this opportunity it quite literally changed my life.

Q:  Would you share a quote that's especially meaningful to you?

A:  Here’s something I am thinking about a lot right now. We have a chance to examine, re-set, renew, in the midst of these difficulties. I don’t want to squander it.

“I used to be afraid of failing at something that really mattered to me, but now I'm more afraid of succeeding at things that don't matter.”

― Bob Goff, author

Q:  Since this is the At Home with...Series, do you have a favorite spot in your home? Would you be willing to take a picture of it that we could share?

A:  This is in my favorite spot of our house. A 3-season porch that has comfy couches and a pretty view of the sunset each day.

Also - this picture - an amazing feat for my flexible fam! Lia, David, Mama, Mark, Skylar and Will.

May 15 Newsletter from Council Member Steve Fletcher

Ward 3 Friends -

I’ve heard a range of reactions from many of you about Governor Walz’s announcement on Wednesday that he is letting the Stay Home order expire on May 18, and replacing it with a “Stay Safe” order that allows many businesses to resume operation. I want to share a little insight about what it means for Ward 3. As a regional destination for work and recreation, our fates and our health are tied to the rest of the region, so we need our statewide strategy to succeed. If Minnesotans do not proceed cautiously, we could bear the brunt of people’s bad judgment and may have to show some agility and adjust to new conditions. 

First, I want to acknowledge that many people are concerned that this announcement will be misconstrued. If you only read the headlines, the emphasis is on re-opening, but if you listen to the Governor’s speech, he’s clear that we need to keep up the efforts that have been working to keep the virus from spreading quickly through our community. While some businesses and activities will resume in a limited way that will be a relief to business owners and customers alike, we still owe it to ourselves and our neighbors to take steps to avoid infection. Masks are even more important as more people come into closer contact with each other, and we should still be minimizing contact in general. 

I asked Mayor Frey in our Council meeting this morning about guidance for employers and workers to make sure newly reopened businesses are reopened in a safe way, and I was encouraged to hear that he is taking seriously our unique role as the work destination for the region, and considering new regulations to increase mask usage and other prevention measures to protect workers returning to their jobs. The Governor’s order puts a lot of pressure on everyone to figure out what safe re-opening looks like very quickly, and we’ll be working hard to support workers and employers in creating safe work spaces.

The order enables some businesses to re-open at a reduced capacity and sets a timeline for others like restaurants and bars. Make no mistake – many business owners are feeling a sense of relief at seeing a light at the end of the tunnel, but most will continue to struggle. There are very few businesses that can thrive at 50% capacity, and there will inevitably be less traffic and less business activity as we all continue to act in the interest of safety. The City is dedicating significant resources to helping businesses figure out strategies for safely reopening so that they can start generating some revenue, and for some business models, that will be beneficial. Small businesses and their workers will still need our support for a long time to come.  

Starting Monday, the Governor is allowing gatherings of up to 10 people, which will be a huge relief to close friends and family who have been separated during isolation, but will also enable more infection-spreading events if people overuse this. As tempting as it will be to make abundant use of this new freedom after many weeks of isolation, it could be very dangerous if people use it irresponsibly, and bounce from small gathering to small gathering. We didn’t come this far together, only to risk becoming super-spreaders of the virus by jumping too quickly into in-person socializing.  

My heart is crying out to be with you in person again. This weekend should be Art-a-Whirl, which is one of the best weekends of the year, and this weekend would have been the nicest weather Art-a-Whirl has had in a while. It is tempting to hear what we want to hear, and go back to normal too quickly, but we’re smarter than that, and we care for each other more than that. So, we’ll do Art-a-Whirl virtually this year (starting at 5:00 PM tonight!), buy art online, share it with our friends online, and look forward to the day when our heads and our hearts are telling us to go fully back into the world again. We still have a long road ahead.    

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How We're Responding to People Experiencing Homelessness Camping Outdoors

I’m hearing from a lot of you from around the Ward about people experiencing homelessness camping outdoors, and as always, I appreciate the spirit of compassion evident in those conversations. I want to share as much accurate information as I can about how the City is responding, what solutions we are working on with our partners at Hennepin County, and how you can help.  

First, this is certainly not unique to Ward 3 or to Minneapolis. We were facing an urgent shortage of deeply affordable, low-barrier housing before the pandemic, and COVID has put strains on all of our existing systems of shelter and support for people experiencing homelessness. We are tracking about 85 encampments around the city, including several small ones (3 tents or fewer) in Ward 3. For the most part, small groups are keeping to themselves and discouraging people from joining them to avoid drawing attention. West River Parkway near Plymouth, Nicollet Island, and the Commons are the most visible ones in Ward 3. There are larger, more concerning encampments in Whittier and Phillips to the south. 

The Commons is newly under the Park Board's control, as are the other sites in Ward 3, but that does not prevent us from collaborating on outreach, public health, and policing. The City monitors camping activity, works to keep it as healthy and safe as we can, and we intervene if the activity begins to pose a more direct and explicit public health or safety threat.  

We are actively working with Hennepin County on shelter and housing options that people can choose (but are not required) to take. The County has placed people from the shelter system into 600 hotel rooms so far, and is working on more. They’re even exploring the option of purchasing hotels, to create long-term low-barrier housing – a concept I strongly support. One thing that is unfortunately delaying that expansion is a debate in the Minnesota Senate on whether or not to take federal CARES Act funding away from the County to give to cities, instead of funding cities with the unallocated CARES Act funds currently held by the state.  

That's significant, because the Governor's executive order limits our ability to disperse encampments during the stay-at-home order. We try to take a compassionate approach to people camping and are usually able to find alternate housing options. Part of what sometimes motivates people to consider other shelter choices is a deadline, which they now know we are unable to set. Advocates tell us they believe many who are camping would choose a hotel bed over a tent if given the option, so the safest and best way to help everyone shelter safely is to expand hotel shelter access. 

Please call 311 if you see a new encampment just in case it's not already on our radar (though it likely is), and please feel free to contact me and my office directly if you see camping activity causing issues that require a response.  

The city has a special partnership with St. Stephens to provide effective, accountable outreach and direct service to people experiencing homelessness, and their hard work and dedication to their mission is critical to our response. I get questions from many of you about how you can contribute money or volunteer time to help others during the pandemic, and among many worthy efforts deserving of generosity, St. Stephens is surely high on the list. You can donate to St. Stephens at https://ststephensmpls.org/donate.

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The 25th Art-A-Whirl is Online!

Art-A-Whirl is the largest open studio tour in the country, and is celebrating their 25th year! Due to COVID-19, we can’t gather together across Northeast Minneapolis this May, but over 1,000 artists, galleries, bands, businesses, restaurants, and breweries are active and ready to connect with you through the Art-A-Whirl Online Experience.

The online Art-A-Whirl experience is LIVE HEREThe online Art-A-Whirl experience is LIVE HERE!

• Find artists by map location, studio building, or medium.
• Browse over 800 artist profiles and shops with shipping and curbside pick-up options.
• View art demos, virtual studio tours, and musical performances.
• Order takeout or delivery from NE restaurants and breweries. 

 (Virtual) Coffee With Your Council Member

I normally hold regular open community office hours at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, at a rotating neighborhood coffee shop in Ward 3 for constituents to drop by, ask questions, and raise any issues you see in the community. 

Right now, I am holding my community office hours remotely on Skype:

Wednesday, May 20, at 5:00 P.M.

Skype Link or by phone: 612-276-6670, 940707330#

Wednesday, May 27, at 5:00 P.M.

Skype Link or by phone: 612-276-6670, 940707330#

If you have questions or a topic to discuss, email Aurin.Chowdhury@minneapolismn.gov to RSVP.

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Good Morning Ward 3 Postponed Indefinitely

Two months ago, at the onset of COVID-19, I had tentatively postponed our planned March Good Morning Ward 3 to next week on May 20.

However, large group gatherings continue to be strongly discouraged, and unfortunately, that will likely be the case for the foreseeable future.

It is with no small degree of sadness that as a result, I have to postpone Good Morning Ward 3 indefinitely. In the meantime, I will continue to host my weekly virtual coffee hours and join as many of you as I can in other virtual gathering spaces.

If you are part of a local community group that meets virtually, and you would like me to join you to talk about what's going on in our Ward and "at City Hall", please email Aurin.Chowdhury@minneapolismn.gov, so we can get it on my schedule! 

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Governor Walz Turning the Dial with New COVID-19 Executive Orders

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Allows More Businesses to Re-Open at Limited Capacity

Gov. Tim Walz announced the next phase of the COVID-19 response in Minnesota. Citing progress made to prepare for the peak of infection, the governor announced a measured, cautious turning of the dial toward a new normal. With the stay home executive order set to expire May 18, the governor will replace it with an order continuing to encourage Minnesotans to stay close to home but allowing for gatherings of friends and family of 10 people or fewer.

• Minnesotans are still asked to stay close to home and limit travel to what is essential.
• All gatherings are limited to 10, and physical distancing with masks, hand-washing and other safety measures should be followed to protect each other.
• No matter what, Minnesotans are asked not to gather in large groups.
• The governor will also allow retail stores and other main street businesses to open if they have a social distancing plan and operate at 50%. Additional guidance, including a template plan and checklist for businesses, is available on DEED’s website at mn.gov/deed/safework.

Acknowledging that there is no stopping the storm of COVID-19 from hitting Minnesota, the governor said that we have made great progress preparing for it.

Gov. Walz also signed executive orders strongly encouraging Minnesotans at greatest risk of serious illness to continue staying home, ensuring workers can raise concerns regarding the safety of their work environments without fear of discrimination or retaliation, and protecting workers from loss of income if they refuse to work under unsafe or unhealthy conditions.

Following the guidance of public health officials, the governor announced a preliminary set of health indicators that could trigger a decision to re-impose restrictions to slow the spread of the virus. These indicators will be refined over time as we learn more about the virus and the course of the pandemic in Minnesota.

They include the number of COVID-19 tests that can be conducted as well as the rate of increase in:

• Number of new COVID-19 cases.
• Percent of COVID-19 tests that are positive.
• Percent of COVID-19 cases for which the source of infection is unknown.

Updates on the COVID-19 pandemic in Minnesota are available at mn.gov/covid19. 

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Minneapolis Parkways Will Remain Open to Pedestrians Through at Least End of June

Sections of eight parkways or park roads totaling 21 lane miles are closed to motor vehicles and open to pedestrians to allow more space for trail users to follow social distancing practices and limit the spread of COVID-19. Park Board staff estimates this will remain in place until at least the end of June.

Learn more about the parkway availability.

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City Amending Budget Due to COVID-19

Financial stresses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic including a projected $100-$200 million revenue shortfall are forcing the City of Minneapolis to reassess our budget.

2020 Amended Budget Process

The mayor will present a recommended revised 2020 budget to the City Council on June 12. The City Council will hold a series of meetings in mid- and late June to hear from City staff about the impacts of the recommended revisions and make any modifications they see necessary. There will be two opportunities for the public to engage and share their voices in this process. Details are being finalized and will be released as soon as they are available.

Budget Steps Already Taken

The City has already frozen wages for all non-bargaining-unit employees and are working with labor partners to implement a wage freeze across the enterprise to help guard against deeper cuts later.

Bills up before the Legislature right now could affect possible State and federal funding that would allow Minneapolis to get a share of the federal coronavirus relief bill. As of now, the City has received none, which has implications across our budget. 

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Final Call for Public Comments on Draft Transportation Action Plan - Closes Friday, May 22

Public comment on the Public Works Department's draft Transportation Action Plan closes next Friday, May 22. 

On social media, follow the City of Minneapolis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and use the hashtag #gompls to share your feedback with us. 

The Minneapolis Transportation Action Plan is a 10-year action plan to guide future planning, design, and implementation of transportation projects for all people in all the ways we move around the city. The plan will identify specific actions for the City and our partners to take to implement the transportation vision outlined in Minneapolis 2040.

If you have feedback or ideas about how you walk, bike, bus, drive, scooter, roll, ride, or otherwise get around your neighborhood, I strongly encourage you to comment on this plan in the next week! 

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Online "Open House" for University & 4th Street Improvements

Hennepin County, in participation with the City of Minneapolis, MnDOT, Metro Transit, and the U of M, is developing roadway improvements for University Avenue and Fourth Street between 35W and Oak Street.

One main goal of this project will be to improve bicycle and transit facilities on University Avenue and Fourth Street to help make the roadway safer for all users. This project will also upgrade intersections for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), modernize the traffic signal systems and improve access to transit stops.

You can access the online open house here to explore the project, learn more, and provide your feedback. 

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New Renter Protections Take Effect on June 1

The City of Minneapolis passed new renter protection rules that go into effect soon. Starting June 1, there will be caps on security deposits and limits on what a rental property owner can use to deny rental applications.

• Inclusive screening criteria will set limits on what information in a renter’s criminal, rental and credit history can be used to deny a rental application. Landlords who don’t use the inclusive screening criteria will have to specifically state why an application is denied and provide an opportunity for the applicant to add more context to their history.
• Security deposits will be capped at one month’s rent, or one-half month’s rent if the landlord requires first and last month’s rent to be paid in advance. If they require the first and last month’s rent to be paid along with the security deposit, renters must have the option to pay the security deposit in installments over three months.

The ordinance goes into effect June 1 for owners with more than 15 rental units. The effective date for property owners with 15 rental units or fewer is Dec. 1. Enforcement will be through the City’s housing maintenance code.

This follows previous renter protection efforts adopted recently, including relocation assistance for displaced renters and a requirement that owners of naturally occurring affordable housing rental property give the City 60 days’ notice before selling their units.

To learn more, visit minneapolismn.gov/renterprotections.

Work Continues on Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Housing

Council Member Schroeder and I introduced a Tenant Opportunity to Purchase ordinance process last year, and staff work on that ordinance continues. City staff are receiving technical assistance in that work from LISC-Twin Cities (The Local Initiatives Support Corporation) and the Coalition for Non-Profit Housing and Economic Development (CNHED) in Washington, DC. 

Along with Council Members Ellison and Gordon, who are also working with us on this project, we recently received a progress report from the consultants and City staff, who are studying options for a tenant opportunity, a City opportunity, and/or a non-profit opportunity to purchase rental housing when it goes up for sale.     

If you have questions about this project and/or would like to be included in opportunities to learn more and help shape it, please contact David.Zaffrann@minneapolismn.gov. 

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Sign Up Online to Vote Early by Mail This Election Year

With health officials advising everyone to reduce contact to keep each other safe during the pandemic, the City of Minneapolis is recommending voting early by mail this election year.

Voters can sign up now to get ballots for the August primary and November general election mailed to them. Ballots will arrive approximately six weeks before those elections, along with postage-paid envelopes for return.

All Minnesota voters are eligible to vote early by mail. Ballot applications should be made no later than 10 days before an election so the ballots can arrive in the mail with enough time for voters to return them.

Although voting early by mail is recommended, voters will still be able to cast their ballots in person at the City’s Early Vote Center, 980 E. Hennepin Ave., or at their polling places on the day of the election.

Watch this video about voting by mail, sign up for your absentee ballot here, and get more voting information at vote.minneapolismn.gov. 

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Check Out the Neighborhood Census Response Rate Map, Encourage People You Know to Complete the Census

Minnesota is currently number one in the nation in responding to the census. With a 69% response rate, we are 11% over the national average of 58.7%

Minneapolis is doing well also, landing at number six of large cities in the nation with populations of 300,000 or more with a response rate of 66.5%, which is close to surpassing our 2010 decennial rate of 72.8%.

However, there is still work to be done. There are several neighborhoods in Minneapolis with previously low response rates that have yet to gain real ground in their 2020 census completion. Too often communities that are underrepresented in the census are subsequently under-resourced when and where they need it the most.

View the Minneapolis neighborhood response rate map and encourage your friends, neighbors and community to complete the census!

Data from the census is used to provide not only services and programs that many of our communities rely on, but also critical medical equipment and first responders during times of crises, much like the current pandemic. Data from the previous census is currently being used to determine where to send ventilators based on population numbers. Our collective response to the census is crucial to our ability to respond successfully to the needs of community.

Take the census now: www.my2020census.gov.

Pining to do Something "Normal"? Take a Segway Tour!

Via a May 15 e-newsletter from Mobile Entertainment, LLC

Together we can get back up... and Out!

SOCIAL DISTANCING? SO ARE WE!

Since 2003, we have had one very important safety tip that is more relevant today than ever before... “KEEP A SIX FOOT BUBBLE AROUND YOUR SEGWAY AT ALL TIMES” Now more than ever, this rule is being applied to all tours, whether you are walking or biking with The Fit Tourist or Segwaying in style as a Human on a Stick.

COVID-19 POLICIES

Additional safety measures have been put into place, including requiring masks for our staff and encouraging masks for our guests. Everything surface that you come into contact with be sanitized and cleaned from handlebars to helmets. Will will also suggest you watch our safety video online prior to your tour. To learn more about our Covid-19 preparedness plan click here.

OUR TOURS HAVE ADVANCED We are keeping our tours fun, engaging and informative, while reducing contact. How are we doing that? TECHNOLOGY! Lucky for us, one of our very own tour guides (way over qualified I might add) developed a prototype that allows you to listen to your tour guide from 3+ city blocks away! No Static!

example of our narrative CLICK HERE!

READY TO PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

For more information call 952-888-9200 or visit humanonastick.com

BOOK NOW!

We thank you in advance for supporting our local, family-run business!