Source Song Festival Announces 12th Festival Season August 3-8 at Westminster Hall

Through July 4, receive $15 off a festival pass using the code "EARLYBIRD"

Source Song Festival (“Source”) has announced its 12th Festival Season with a week of recitals, masterclasses and lectures, all open to the public. The 2025 season is focused on “Singing Down the Barriers,” highlighting African American spirituals in the concert setting.

From August 3-8, Westminster Hall in Westminster Presbyterian Church will host this celebration of art song. Created as early as the 18th century, art song’s traditional repertoire is expanded when Source highlights today’s emerging composers, who enhance and develop the meaning of this evocative musical genre.

Sixteen vocalists and collaborative pianists from across the United States comprise the eight MNDuo performer pairs that will study the musical works of song and perform in collaboration with local Minnesota composers. Meanwhile, eight composers refine their own emerging works with the guidance of the renowned Libby Larsen.

These impressive musicians and composers hail from esteemed institutions including Juilliard, Peabody, Rice, Eastman, University of Minnesota and Brigham Young University, among others. Their rehearsal and study will culminate in a public recital during the Festival.

Season 12 will also welcome nationally renowned guest musicians, composers, and clinicians to present daytime educational lectures and masterclasses for the MNSong and MNDuo participants. MNScholar features a daily 10am lecture dedicated to song repertoire, scholarship and non-profit research. Over 16 masterclasses and lectures spotlighting guest artists and festival directors are open to the public; all daytime events remain free. Detailed information about schedules, parking and tickets (including an all-inclusive festival pass) for evening concerts can be found at www.sourcesongfestival.org.

RECITAL/LECTURE SCHEDULE

Sunday, August 3, 7:00pm, Westminster Hall: Emery Stephens presents Source’s 2025 inaugural lecture, addressing “The Realness of Omissions in the Classical Canon and Our Present Work to Dismantle It” through the lens of his book, “Singing Down the Barriers.” The evening provides a foundation to form questions, begin discussions and prepare for a week of exploration. Free and open to the public.

Monday, August 4, 6:30pm, Westminster Hall: The legendary collaborative pianist/vocal coach Warren Jones leads a master class with the eight MNSong duos. A former longtime faculty member of the Manhattan School of Music, Jones enlivens the 6:30pm recital, which will be both entertaining and informative.

Tuesday, August 5, 7:30pm, Westminster Hall and Sanctuary: Witness three new song cycles come to life. Compositions from MNSong participants Steven Ward (using texts from Paul Dunbar), James A. Devor (music for four vocalists, piano, guitar and organ titled “The Workers’ Prayers”) and Laura Nevitt (interpreting Emily Dickinson’s poetry) feature local artists including Casey Rafn, Clara Osowski, Regina Stroncek, Scott Brunscheen and more.

Wednesday, August 6, 7:30pm, Westminster Hall: Enjoy this celebration of song as baritone Sidney Outlaw and pianist Warren Jones team up to present an incredibly versatile, diverse recital filled with Rossini songs, Schumann’s Liederkreis, Op. 24, H.T. Burleigh’s complete Passionale and Boykin’s 26 Ways to Look at a Black Man.

Thursday, August 7, 7:30pm, Westminster Hall: Singing Down the Barriers: Emery Stephens introduces eight MNDuos in a riveting performance of songs and spirituals from African American composers. This promises to be a festival highlight.

Friday, August 8, Westminster Hall: The Festival closes with two evening recitals. First, at 5:00pm, the MNDuo Showcase unfolds as participants recap their week of study and performance practice. At 7:30pm, hear a MNSong premiere from Marie Herrington entitled Plyve Kache: 3 Songs of Our Past and Present, followed by Florence Price’s Five Folk Songs and Libby Larsen’s This Unbearable Stillness. Guest artists include the Mill City String Quartet, mezzo-soprano Clara Osowski, and pianist Timothy Lovelace.

Owamni's Riverside Wakpa Bar is Now Open

The Wakpa patio outside the lower level of the Owamni restaurant building is now open.

Pick up tacos, snacking crickets, beer, wine, or a zero proof switchel from the Wakpa Bar beer tent pop up.

The Wakpa Bar is open 4pm to sunset on Wednesdays, and 2pm-8pm, Thursday through Sunday. 

Food Options:

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CRICKETS & POPCORN* 14 

Roasted Crickets • Candied Seeds 

Maple Sumac Popcorn

SHRIMP TACO 10 

Chimichurri • Slaw • Jalepeño Aioli

BISON BRISKET TACO 10 

Avocado Tomatillo Salsa • Tortilla Strips 

Greens 

CORN TACO 10 

Corn Dumplings • Corn Jam • Sumac Popcorn 

.

Drinks:

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CHENIN BLANC 14 

Kumusha • Swartland, SA 

“SKAAPVELD” SHIRAZ 15 

M.A.N. Family Wines • Cape Coast, SA BEER 

DOŃA FRÍA LAGER 8 

La Doña Cervecería 

PRAGMATIC PILS 8 

Pryes Brewing Company 

ENMOLADA STOUT 8 

La Doña Cervecería 

GLAMORAMA WEST COAST IPA 8 Pryes Brewing Company 

RASPBERRY HIBICUS CIDER 8 Wild State 

PINEAPPLE SOUR 8 

Pryes Brewing Company 

n/a beverages 

HOBBY FARMER SWITCHEL 7 Blend of Ginger, Honey and Apple Cider Vinegar with a flavor of your choice TUMERIC • CAYENNE • CINNAMON

MPRB and MPD Announce Parkway and Road Closures for July 4 Weekend

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) and Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) will limit vehicle access to some segments of parkways and streets over the Independence Day holiday. The parkway and street segments closed to vehicle traffic will remain open for bicyclists and pedestrians. These traffic closures were successful in 2024 in deterring large volumes of vehicles gathering near the Central Riverfront and Bde Maka Ska during the July 4 holiday.

MPRB July 4 road closures include:

• West River Parkway will be closed to vehicles from 4th Avenue North to 11th Avenue S. The closure will take effect mid-morning of July 4 and reopen the morning of July 5.
• Main Street SE will be closed to vehicles from Hennepin Avenue to 6th Avenue SE at 3p.
• The Stone Arch Bridge will be closed to pedestrians and bicycles.
• The Boom Island Park parking lot will be open only for vehicles with a disability parking certificate.
• West Bde Maka Ska Parkway will be closed to vehicles from Richfield Road to Xerxes Avenue S.
• East Bde Maka Ska Parkway will be closed from West 36th Street to West 31st Street. The Bde Maka Ska Parkway closures will take effect the evening of July 3 and reopen the morning of July 5.

MPD road closures beginning at 7p on July 4 include:

• 3rd Avenue Bridge will be closed (Red, White and Boom! fireworks fallout zone)

MPD limited access: local traffic only beginning 7p on July 4 include:

• 2nd Street S closed from 3rd Avenue to 13th Avenue.
• University Avenue SE from 35 W to Oak Street will be one lane of traffic.
• 4th Street SE from 35 W to Oak Street SE will be one lane of traffic.

Closing these segments of parkways will help safeguard pedestrians and bicyclists visiting these popular July 4 park destinations.

2025 Red, White, and Boom! Fourth of July Event to Feature All-day Activities

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board will host Red, White and Boom!, the city’s largest Independence Day event, on Friday, July 4. This year’s celebration features an all-day lineup of fun, starting at 10am and culminating in fireworks at 10pm.

Festivities will take place on the west side of the river, at Water Works and the Stone Arch Bridge parking lot. More info: Facebook and mplsredwhiteboom.com.

* * * Event Schedule * * *

Morning Movement

10:30 am: Free Yoga with Minneapolis Bouldering Project on Water Works lawn
12:00 pm: Free Yoga with Downtown YMCA on Water Works lawn

Start your day grounded and energized with a free outdoor yoga flow session.

Local Shopping

10am-4pm: Minneapolis Park Market

Browse 20+ local makers, including handmade ceramics, jewelry, pet treats, and kid-run businesses.

Pickleball on the Parkway

3:30-8:30pm: Open Play

Grab a paddle and join the action, no registration needed!

Evening Dance Sessions

5:30-6:30pm: Line Dancing with Deena
6:45-7:45pm: K-Pop Random Dance Play
8:00-9:00pm: Zumba Dance Jam

Let’s dance Minneapolis!

DJ Dance Party

9-10pm: Keep the energy up before the fireworks with a high-energy dance party set by our live DJ.

Fireworks over the Mississippi River

10:00pm: End the day with a breathtaking fireworks display, lighting up the Minneapolis skyline and riverfront in a show of color, sparkle, and celebration.

Video: Mayor Frey Responds to Federal Enforcement Actions

June 2025 Bridge 9 Improvement Project Update

View of removed bridge deck

Bridge No. 9 was constructed in 1922 by the Northern Pacific Railroad to carry freight over the Mississippi. The City of Minneapolis acquired this bridge in 1986 and converted the bridge to a pedestrian use bridge in 1999. The bridge currently provides a Mississippi River crossing for the Dinkytown Greenway bike trail.

Beginning in April, 2025, the City of Minneapolis started making repairs and improvements to Bridge 9, Abutment 1 and the approach spans on both ends of the bridge. The latest updates on this project are below.

2025 Construction Phase

Public Works has been working on this bridge in phases over the past few years, starting with the substructure work (piers and abutments).

In 2025, the scope of work will focus on the superstructure, which includes removing and replacing the approach span decks, replacing the existing railing with a high-safety railing and rehabilitating the east side abutment.

Rehabilitation work on the abutment consists of the removal of degraded concrete, then repairing and strengthening the concrete to remain with new reinforced concrete. The work on the approach spans consists of the removal of the old ballast slab, aggregate and bituminous pavement, then constructing a new reinforced concrete deck.

The abutment work takes place within Bridge 9 right of way through University of Minnesota property.  It is occurring adjacent to the U of M Main Energy Plant. Access and staging for the work were closely coordinated with University officials.

Preparing to saw southern concrete slab

Schedule

Construction activities this season started on April 7, 2025. The scheduled completion date is the end of December 2025. The contractor is currently anticipating substantial completion by the end of November 2025.

Traffic Impact

The bridge is closed to bicyclists and pedestrians this season. The detour route is posted to the project webpage.

Current Work

During the month of May, the following construction operations were performed: continued removal of the northern approach span deck, excavation behind abutment 1, and salvaging the existing metal railing from the bridge approach spans.

Excavation behind Abutment 1

Coming Up

Deck removals on the southern approach span, repair work on Abutment 1, and preparing the girders on the North approach span for the new deck.

Stay Connected

For more details and to sign up for email updates please visit the project page: 

www.minneapolismn.gov/government/projects/bridge-9/

For concerns or questions about the Bridge 9 project please contact:

Contact the project engineer: Petru Vizoli,
612-201-1905, or Petru.Vizoli@minneapolismn.gov.

Contact the engineer: Oscar Weber,
651-470-4790 or Oscar.Weber@minneapolismn.gov 

Contact the design team project manager: Rich Revering,
612-718-8412 or Richard.Revering@Bolton-Menk.com

Follow the Purple Path - a New Prince-related Initiative in Downtown

A new Prince-related initiative is underway in downtown Minneapolis.

Meet Minneapolis, in partnership with Paisley Park and the Downtown Improvement District, with support from The Minneapolis Foundation, is installing temporary sidewalk clings as part of The Purple Path, a citywide tribute to Prince’s legacy in Minneapolis. These clings will be in place through the fall and highlight significant locations tied to Prince’s life, music and connection to Minneapolis.

The Purple Path invites both locals and visitors to discover the city through the lens of one of its beloved icons, creating a fun, walkable and photo-worthy trail that celebrates creativity, community and purple pride. 

Below are The Purple Path locations in downtown Minneapolis:

1. Dakota Jazz Club (1010 Nicollet Mall) (cannot install for 30 days to due sidewalk resealing)
2. Schmitt Music Mural (South 10th Street & Marquette Avenue)
3. IDS Center (80 South 8th Street)
4. First Avenue & 7th Street Entry (701 North 1st Avenue)
5. Orpheum Theatre (910 Hennepin Avenue)
6. Downtown Mural (1st Avenue and 8th Street)
7. Glam Slam (110 North 5th Street)
8. Prince Photograph (North 1st Street & North 1st Avenue)

In addition to The Purple Path, Meet Minneapolis offers these resources to help visitors experience Prince’s Minneapolis:

• https://www.minneapolis.org/things-to-do/music-nightlife/princes-minneapolis/visit-princes-hometown-of-minneapolis/
• https://www.minneapolis.org/things-to-do/music-nightlife/princes-minneapolis/

Kolman & Reeb Gallery Announces The Big Tiny Show: A Group Exhibition, June 14-19

The Big Tiny Show: A Group Exhibition

Kolman & Reeb Gallery June 14 – July 19, 2025

Artist Reception: Saturday, June 14, 6:00pm–8:00pm

The Kolman & Reeb Gallery will be showcasing works by artists from across Minnesota with a juried group exhibition, The Big Tiny Show. These established and emerging artists were asked to submit their most inspiring, controversial, or breathtaking works. 

From its inception, the Kolman & Reeb Gallery has focused on ways to support Minnesota artists. This juried group show allowed the prestigious Minneapolis gallery to expand on this mission with a call inviting artists to submit their work to be considered for this show. The tremendous response shows artists are passionate about sharing their unique perspectives.

From tried-and-true oil on canvas to pine needles and artificial sinew, gallery patrons can expect an inspiring and diverse exhibition. Adopting its name from the guideline that no one piece of art can be larger than 12 inches, The Big Tiny Show involves a variety of subject matter and media.

With the varied assortment, the depth of the show has allowed for an innovative and contemporary curation.

“What excites me about this show is the opportunity it provides the Kolman & Reeb Gallery to suspend its usual aesthetic and instead display artwork from a wide variety of Minnesota artists regardless of medium, subject, style,” says Anita Sue Kolman, Kolman & Reeb Gallery co-founder and co-partner.

Per Jodi Reeb, gallery curator and co-partner, “With this show, Anita and I were eager to open the call to all media types and expressions. The results were overwhelming, and we received a significant response from Minnesota artists interested in showing their work. Our panel of judges was delighted by the superior quality of the art submitted. We’re eager for our patrons to come and view the diverse collection from across Minnesota. Opening the call to all types of media offered a unique experience as the curator."

All are invited to come and view this interesting blend of styles from emerging and established Artists. All art on display during The Big Tiny Show will be available for purchase.

Opera Under the Stars Returns to Water Works Park

Carole Schultz and Elizabeth Chua a.k.a. the Overdressed Duo

“Our dresses may be formal, but we are not!” 

Presented by the Overdressed Duo, Opera Under the Stars brings you the glamour of live opera in a public neighborhood park setting. Concerts feature solo and ensemble hits from favorite opera and music theater selections. Each concert will feature the Overdressed Duo - soprano Carole Schultz and pianist Elizabeth Chua - along with guest performers. Concert programming varies slightly at each concert to feature different guest artists.

Concerts are free and family-friendly. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, or pack a picnic with your friends and family.

A 2023 performance at Water Works Park

Concert dates and times at Water Works Park: Saturday June 21 and Saturday September 6, both 7-8:30pm. There will also be a performance on July 20 at the Lake Harriet Bandshell.

The Overdressed Duo is a classical vocal music duo based in the Twin Cities. They are highly trained professionals who pair exquisite musicianship with a casual concert environment, with the belief that classical music can be fun and family-friendly. You do not need a black tie to enjoy quality classical music!

Input Requested for Blue Line Extension Design in the North Loop

The Met Council’s METRO Blue Line Extension project is seeking public feedback on design updates. Your feedback will help shape station designs and the character of the areas along the corridor.

Blue Line Extension community discussion for the North Loop

5-7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 22
North Loop Garage, 600 Eighth Avenue N, Room 104

If you have questions or need help to attend meetings, email the Blue Line Extension Project office.

Learn more about Met Council’s plans to extend the Blue Line.

Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Announces 2025 Music and Movies in the Parks Lineup

200+ free outdoor concerts scheduled at eight venues and 60+ movies will be shown on an inflatable movie screen at parks across the city

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) has announced their 2025 Music and Movies in the Parks lineup. This year Minneapolis Music in the Parks features 200+ free outdoor concerts at eight park venues between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Movies in the Parks will host a free outdoor movie on an inflatable screen somewhere in the park system on more than 60 summer nights.

The entire schedule is posted at the Minneapolis Music and Movies in the Parks website. Subscribe to email updates on the Music and Movies page to receive the schedule for the upcoming week in your inbox every Sunday night.

Music and Movies Calendar and Map

A printed pocket map will be available at all recreation centers, park restaurants and MPRB Headquarters. Concert performers and movie screenings may change throughout the summer, check online calendars for the most up-to-date information.

*  *  *  *  Movies in the Parks  *  *  *  *   

Movies in the Parks are scheduled June 4-Aug. 30. A total of 66 outdoor movie screenings are planned, showing a wide variety of new releases and beloved classics, at different parks throughout the summer. Movies start 15 minutes after sunset.

Bringing your own blanket, chair and bug spray are recommended. People can also bring their own food and beverage, no glass please.

Movies in the Parks Online Calendar

*  *  *  *  Music in the Parks  *  *  *  *

Music in the Parks begins on Memorial Day, May 26, and ends Labor Day, Monday, September 1. A total of 205 concerts and events are scheduled to showcase an amazing variety of talented musicians and entertainers from Minneapolis and surrounding communities at eight unique park venues throughout the summer.

Music in the Parks Online Calendar

*  *  *  *  Venues and Schedules  *  *  *  *

Lake Harriet Bandshell, 4135 W Lake Harriet Parkway

Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sunday 2 pm and 5:30 pm
Note: A Minneapolis Park Market is also available near the Bandshell during Sunday concerts.

*

Minnehaha Bandstand, 4801 S Minnehaha Drive

Schedule: Thursdays, Fridays at 7 pm, and new this year, Tuesdays at 12 pm
Note: A Minneapolis Park Market is also available near the Bandstand during Friday concerts.

*

Water Works, 425 West River Parkway

Schedule: Saturdays at 7 pm
Note: Concerts shift to Saturday nights this year, concessions available from Owamni’s outdoor Wakpa Bar!

*

The Commons, 425 Portland Avenue S

Schedule: Wednesdays at 12 pm, Thursdays at 7 pm
Note: New this year is Trivia on the first and second Wednesday of each month

*

Bryant Square Park, 3101 Bryant Avenue S

Schedule: Tuesdays, Thursdays at 6:30 pm

*

Loring Park, 1382 Willow Street

Schedule: Tuesdays at 7 pm
Note: DJ in the Park on the second Saturday of each month, 4-8 pm

*

Father Hennepin Bluff Park, 420 SE Main Street

Schedule: Tuesdays at 7 pm

*

Live on the Drive, Various locations on Victory Memorial Drive

Schedule: Second Thursday of each month (June 12, July 10, Aug. 7) at 7 pm

Twin Cities Earn Top Rankings on 2025 ParkScore® Index

Minneapolis Places 3rd and St. Paul Ranks 5th - Washington, D.C. Defends National ParkScore Title

Trust for Public Land announced today that Minneapolis placed third on the 2025 ParkScore^® Index, following last year's second-place finish. St. Paul landed in fifth place, compared to third last year.

Washington, D.C., retained its position atop the ParkScore index for the fifth consecutive year. Irvine jumped to second, with Cincinnati placing fourth. The annual ParkScore^® index ranks park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities and is widely considered the gold standard for park evaluation.

Both Minneapolis and St. Paul received strong marks on all ParkScore rating factors. Ninety-nine percent of Minneapolis and St. Paul residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, far above the national ParkScore average of 76 percent. Both cities continue to lead on park investment. Minneapolis spends $324 per person on its park system, and St. Paul invests $248, far above the national ParkScore average of $133. The Twin Cities also outperform on park acreage, park equity and park amenities.

"No other state can claim what Minnesota can: two nation-leading park systems in its largest cities. As other communities raise the bar, we’re reminded that continued investment is essential to keep our parks strong, accessible, and equitable,” said Sophie Harris Vorhoff, Minnesota State Director for Trust for Public Land.

The Twin Cities’ slight dips in the rankings were caused primarily by positive moves from Irvine and Cincinnati, not changes to local park systems. Irvine benefitted from continued progress on its planned Great Park, one of the most ambitious public park projects in the United States. Cincinnati benefitted from the renovation of downtown’s Lytle Park and a citywide effort to improve public access to schoolyards and other open spaces.

Accompanying the annual ratings list, Trust for Public Land released new public opinion research reporting that residents throughout the United States value public parks and use them frequently. These findings remain steady across demographic and ideological lines, confirming that parks are among the least polarized spaces in the United States. Survey details are included in a special research report, Parks, The Great Unifiers, which also describes how four major U.S. cities - Atlanta, Fort Worth, Colorado Springs, and Chicago - have invested in parks to help bring people together and strengthen communities.

The research found that 89% of ParkScore city residents visited a public park at least once during the past year and 79% said they visit a local park regularly and feel comfortable spending time there. Also, respondents said they wished they had spent more time outdoors during the past year. By contrast, only 24% of respondents said they wished they had spent more time at home and 16% said they wished they had spent more time in bars or restaurants. Nearly two-thirds of respondents said they struck up a conversation in a public park with a person they had not known previously. The public opinion survey, National Survey on Outdoor Public Spaces, was conducted by national pollster YouGov in March, 2025.

“Parks bring people together and deliver enormous physical and mental health benefits for visitors,” Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO of Trust for Public Land, said.

“At a time when so much in our nation seems fractured or polarized, parks may be the last ideology-free zones, where everyone can come together, form meaningful relationships, and enjoy a few hours of peace and relaxation. At Trust for Public Land, we will continue to work with park departments and leaders at all levels of government to realize the full community-building potential for parks,” Hauser added.

PARKSCORE RANKINGS FOR 2025

Washington, D.C., was rated the best big-city park system in the United States for the fifth consecutive year. The city scored well on all ParkScore rating factors. Twenty-one percent of land in the District of Columbia is reserved for parks, among the highest in the United States. The District also outperformed on ParkScore’s park access and park equity metrics.

Irvine jumped to a record ParkScore finish, powered by continued progress on its planned Great Park, one of the most ambitious public park projects in the United States. Cincinnati made a big move in the 2025 ParkScore rankings, climbing to fourth position this year, well ahead of last year’s eighth place rank. The Queen City’s rise was due primarily to the $5 million renovation of downtown’s Lytle Park and a citywide effort to improve public access to schoolyards and other open spaces.

Boise defended its title as the best park system for dogs, with a nation-leading 9.0 dog parks per 100,000 residents, outscoring Portland, Oregon, and Henderson, Nevada. St. Paul received top marks for basketball hoops, Las Vegas scored best for playgrounds, and Boston earned top marks for splashpads and other water features.

PARKSCORE METHODOLOGY AND RANKINGS

The annual ParkScore^® index ranks park systems in the 100 most populous U.S. cities and is widely considered the gold standard for park evaluation. ParkScore rankings are based equally on five factors:

● Park access measures the percentage of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park.

● Park equity compares per capita park space and 10-minute-walk park access in communities of color vs. white communities and in low-income neighborhoods versus high-income neighborhoods. Park systems score higher if disparities are minimal or non-existent.

● Park acreage is based on a city’s median park size and the percentage of city area dedicated to parks.

● Park investment measures park spending per resident.

● Park amenities assesses the availability of seven popular park features: basketball hoops; off-leash dog parks; playgrounds; splashpads and other water-play structures; sports fields; recreation and senior centers, and restrooms.

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

Rank	City	ParkScore (Max 100)
1.	Washington, D.C.	85.5
2.	Irvine, CA	84.3
3.	Minneapolis, MN	83.6
4.	Cincinnati, OH	82.0
5.	St. Paul, MN	81.8
6.	San Francisco, CA	80.2
7.	Arlington, VA	77.9
8.	Seattle, WA	77.4
9.	Portland, OR	76.0
10.	Denver, CO	75.1

The ParkScore index uses advanced GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and spatial analysis to evaluate 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.

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.

Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors. As a leader in equitable access to the outdoors, TPL works with communities to create parks and protect public land where they are needed most. Since 1972, TPL has protected more than 4 million acres of public land, created more than 5,504 parks, trails, schoolyards, and iconic outdoor places, and raised $110 billion in public funding for parks and public lands, and connected nearly 9.7 million people to the outdoors. To learn more, visit tpl.org

From the Mayor's Office: Second Independent Evaluator Report Shows ‘Significant Strides’ in Minneapolis Police Reform

May 20 e-announcement from Mayor Frey's office:

As the City of Minneapolis prepares to mark five years since the murder of George Floyd, new findings from the independent evaluator Effective Law Enforcement for ALL (ELEFA) show that Minneapolis is not only moving forward with police reform—it’s positioning itself to become a national leader in it. 

Covering the period from October 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, ELEFA’s second semi-annual report—and its first full-year assessment—shows Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) have made “more progress toward building a foundation for sustainable reform in the first year of monitoring than nearly any other jurisdiction” operating under a court-ordered reform agreement. 

“Minneapolis is making more progress than nearly any other city under a consent decree or settlement agreement in the first year of monitoring—that’s a big deal,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “From day one, I said we would lead the country on police reform, and this report clearly shows our investments, dedication, and commitment to the work are paying off. But no one here is taking a victory lap, we’ll keep pushing until every benchmark translates into real trust and safer streets.” 

Released earlier today, ELEFA’s report highlights several key policy areas that have received final approval, are near final approval, or are under development as the City works toward meeting full compliance with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) Settlement Agreement, signed in 2023. This includes, among others:  

• Near elimination of OPCR and IA historical misconduct complaint backlog – all are now in process with 30 complaints closed as of March 31. 
• Completing a comprehensive training needs assessment and developing a highly regarded annual training plan that ELEFA notes could serve as a model for other law enforcement agencies 
• Developing and updating key policies around Use of Force, mission/vision/values/goals, crisis intervention, and other areas. 
• Incorporating significant resident feedback and input into new and revised policies  
• Expanding officer training programs 
• Laying groundwork for improvements to facilities and data systems   Designating 21 officers to serve as peer support members, providing mentorship, outreach and emotional support to officers who may need assistance 

Minneapolis continues to prioritize accountability, transparency, and community engagement in our reform initiatives. The City is committed to making sure that every step of the reform process is not only effective but also informed by input from the community. These reforms lay the groundwork for the next phase of transformation—both within MPD and across the broader ecosystem of community safety.  

“This second report reflects the efforts of our City leaders and staff, and especially our MPD officers, over the past year,” said Commissioner of Community Safety Toddrick Barnette. “Under Mayor Frey’s leadership, the Office of Community Safety continues to develop a comprehensive community safety ecosystem to deliver equitable safety services for all Minneapolis residents and visitors. This ecosystem cannot exist without police reform, nor can police reform be sustainable without reimagining community safety. It’s not going to be a fast process. The most important thing to know is that we will not let up.” 

"It is clear in this report that the Minneapolis Police Department has accomplished more in one year than any other police department under a consent decree,” Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said.  I am proud of the hard work our Implementation Unit, Academy Staff, and all of our sworn and professional staff that are stepping up in extraordinary ways to make change real for our residents.  I couldn’t be prouder of our team and I’m thankful for the results they are producing for our department and our community." 

“The Office of Police Conduct Review (OPCR) has made significant progress in furthering its reform work. That includes being on pace to eliminate the historic backlog,” said City of Minneapolis Civil Rights Director Michelle Phillips. “Civil Rights leadership is re-imagining how the OPCR does business by involving community voices more than ever before and staying true to its mission to provide impartial assessments of the Minneapolis Police Department.” 

The second semi-annual report is available on ELEFA’s website, ELE4A.org. ELEFA will continue to host regularly scheduled community engagement sessions. The next review period will cover work completed between April 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025.  

More information and progress updates can be found on the police reform pages of the City's website.

Rhythmically Speaking Presents Groovers & Makers 2025, August 14-16 at Southern Theater

Groovers & Makers 2025 runs August 14-16 at Southern Theater

Rhythmically Speaking (RS) has announced their newly rebranded (and 17th annual) summer production Groovers & Makers 2025: 4 Takes on Jazz Dance (formerly The Cohort) August 14-16 at the Southern Theater. Though the format and name of this annual Summer production has shifted throughout the years, it has always delivered fresh, vibrant takes on staged works inspired by jazz and American social dance ideas from exciting movers and shakers in the field. The production continues RS's tradition of commissioning the creation of new work by local choreographers while providing opportunities for dance artists who are based outside of Minnesota to show their work here. In 2022, they added a screen works segment to this program, in collaboration with the Sans Souci Festival of Dance Cinema (Boulder, CO).

The stage component of Groovers & Makers 2025 features works by an exciting line-up of choreographers (the Makers): Hannah MacKenzie-Margulies, a local artist with a strong contemporary concert dance background who is also very well-known on the swing dance teaching and competition circuit; Brandi Coleman of Dallas, TX, a long-time company member of Jump Rhythm Jazz Project (Chicago) who is currently Assistant Professor of Jazz Dance at Southern Methodist University; and Cynthia Gutierrez, director of Company Movimiento (Eugene, OR) and Assistant Professor of Dance at Gonzaga University who initially built her career in the Twin Cities. RS Artistic and Executive Director Erinn Liebhard will also have work in the show.

From MacKenzie-Margulies’ contemporary concert dance take on swing and Coleman’s vocally-dynamic approach to grounded and driven jazz, to Gutierrez’s Latin jazz vibes and Liebhard’s groove and improvisation-forward perspective, the production will run a gamut of feelings while showing a breadth of what ‘jazz and American social dance-inspired’ can mean. The show will be danced by RS company members (the Groovers) Nieya Amezquita, Malia Craft, Doug Hooker, Amy Jones, Sara Karimi, Erinn Liebhard, Kelli Miles, Jake Nehrbass, Kathleen Pender and Betsy Schaefer-Roob. Groovers & Makers 2025 will also include a screening of to-be-selected dance films by artists from all over the world: previous screen programs have included works not only from all over the USA, but also Bulgara, the UK and Spain.

Rhythmically Speaking sparks vibrancy and connectedness through jazz and American social dance ideas. With shared roots of groove, interaction and improvisation, these approaches encourage simultaneous expression of difference and similarity as a means of creating community. RS is proud to be a local and national leader in celebrating the rich history of these forms while nurturing their innovation. Since their founding in 2008, the organization has presented 111 original and remounted works and engaged 350+ artists and thousands of audience members and outreach program participants.

Pen Pals' 29th Season Lineup Announced

Friends of Hennepin County Library has announced the lineup for their 2025-26 season of Pen Pals, the highly-acclaimed and longest-running literary series in the Twin Cities.  The 29th season of Pen Pals will once again feature a captivating array of award-winning and bestselling authors. Please join us at Hopkins Center for the Arts as we welcome Wally Lamb, Laila Lalami, Kaveh Akbar, Imani Perry, and Ariel Lawhon.  Current subscribers, now is the time to renew your season tickets! Renew online today and by phone starting May 7 (612-543-8112.) New subscribers, subscriptions go on sale on Friday, June 27, with a special presale for Library Leadership Circle members on Thursday, June 26. We hope you can join us for another season of thought-provoking conversations and literary adventures!

Wally Lamb She's Come Undone, I Know This Much is True Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, 2025 11:00 a.m.

Laila Lalami The Dream Hotel, The Moor's Account Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025 11:00 a.m.

Kaveh Akbar Martyr!, Calling a Wolf a Wolf Monday, Dec. 8, 2025 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025 11:00 a.m.

Imani Perry Black in Blues, South to America  Thursday, Mar. 5, 2026 7:30 p.m. Friday, Mar. 6, 2026 11:00 a.m.

Ariel Lawhon The Frozen River, I Was Anastasia Thursday, April 30, 2026 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026 11:00 a.m.

FINNOVATION Institute Fellowship Program Now Accepting Applications

Applications for the seventh cohort of the FINNOVATION Fellowship Program are now open and due by June 1, 2025. The program supports impact-driven, ‘early-stage’ entrepreneurs as they launch and lead sustainable and innovative businesses.

For its first six years, the FINNOVATION Fellowship was an intensive nine-month initiative for a select cohort of nine social business leaders in Minnesota. New in 2025, the program is changing to support more social entrepreneurs, especially those in the earliest stages of exploring a business idea.

For the 2025-26 cohort, the Fellowship program will be split into two distinct phases: the Discovery Module and the Fellows Module. The Discovery Module will accept up to 18 participants and, for three months, will focus on developing a deeper understanding of participants’ market opportunity and value proposition.

All Discovery Module participants are eligible to be considered for the Fellows Module. Up to nine participants will receive a $50,000 stipend and will work closely with the FINNOVATION Institute for six months to focus on their business's operational and strategic elements. This will result in a strong business plan and pitch as well as deeper work in leadership development.

Ideal Fellows are driven to be great leaders who can bridge the gap between social change and business and embrace the ups and downs of personal growth and entrepreneurship. “This program is a great opportunity for people with expertise in various sectors, but who aren’t sure how to start or grow a business,” says Connie Rutledge, Executive Director of the FINNOVATION Institute.

To learn more about the 2025/2026 Fellowship Program, apply, and learn about FINNOVATION Fellowship alums, please visit www.finnovationinstitute.org.

Help Restore Our Riverfront Nature Sanctuary, East Owamniyomni

Help restore native habitats and protect the clean waters of this scenic nature sanctuary by the Mississippi River, once part of the St. Anthony Falls.

By the east bank of the Mississippi River, where waters once tumbled over the limestone face to create the river’s only natural falls, volunteers are restoring native trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses to the shores, slopes, meadows and wetlands of the lower trail area of Father Hennepin Bluff Park.  From Williams Island – visible from the Stone Arch Bridge – to Mill View Meadow – visible from Main Street SE – to Hennepin Beach – downstream from the Xcel spillway - this diverse natural area hums with life. Eagles and herons hunt in its waters, and songbirds nest in its forest. In Dakota, St. Anthony Falls are called Owamniyomni, “turbulent water, whirlpool, eddy,” and volunteers call this part of the park East Owamniyomni, honoring the power of the falls.

The Father Hennepin Bluff Stewards, a project of the East Bank Neighborhoods Partnership, collaborates with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board to care for this nature sanctuary, and hosts care days from April to November. All are welcome!

Please sign up here!

2025 Posters for Parks - Call for Artists Now Open Through June 6

Calling all local artists, designers, and illustrators who love Minneapolis Parks! Applications are now open for the 11th annual Posters for Parks show, happening Saturday, October 11 at Minnehaha Park. This event features limited-edition posters that benefit our parks - artists receive 50% of each sale, with remaining proceeds supporting the Minneapolis Parks Foundation’s People for Parks Fund.

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Don’t delay – the Call for Artists closes on Friday, June 6! Apply here

May 7th Bridge 9 Improvement Project Update

Bridge No. 9 was constructed in 1922 by the Northern Pacific Railroad to carry freight over the Mississippi. The City of Minneapolis acquired this bridge in 1986 and converted the bridge to a pedestrian use bridge in 1999. The bridge currently provides a Mississippi River crossing for the Dinkytown Greenway bike trail.

Beginning in April, 2025, the City of Minneapolis started making repairs and improvements to Bridge 9, Abutment 1 and the approach spans on both ends of the bridge

*  *  *  Latest project news  *  *  * 

2025 Construction Phase

Public Works has been working on this bridge in phases over the past few years, starting with the substructure work (piers and abutments).

In 2025, the scope of work will focus on the superstructure, which includes removing and replacing the approach span decks, replacing the existing railing with a high-safety railing and rehabilitating the east side abutment.

Rehabilitation work on the abutment consists of the removal of degraded concrete, then repairing and strengthening the concrete to remain with new reinforced concrete. The work on the approach spans consists of the removal of the old ballast slab/deck, aggregate and bituminous pavement, then constructing a new reinforced concrete deck.

View of removed bridge deck

The abutment work takes place within Bridge 9 right of way through University of Minnesota property.  It is occurring adjacent to the U of M Main Energy Plant. Access and staging for the work were closely coordinated with University officials.

Sawing concrete slab

Schedule

Construction activities this season started on April 7th of 2025. The scheduled completion date is the end of December 2025. The contractor is currently anticipating substantial completion by the end of November 2025.

Traffic Impact

The bridge is closed to bicyclists and pedestrians this season. The Detour route is below, and it is also posted to the project webpage.

Current Work

For the month of April, the following construction operations were performed: Work site establishment, installing the debris containment system, removal of the aggregate and bituminous surface on the approach spans, saw cutting the northern approach span for deck removal and beginning to remove the deck on the northern approach span.

Removal of concrete slab section

Coming Up

Continued deck removals, railing removals, excavation on the North side of the bridge to allow for work on Abutment 1.

Stay Connected

For more details and to sign up for email updates please visit the project page.

For concerns or questions about the Bridge 9 project please contact:

Contact the project engineer: Petru Vizoli,
612-201-1905, or Petru.Vizoli@minneapolismn.gov

Contact the engineer: Oscar Weber,
651-470-4790 or Oscar.Weber@minneapolismn.gov 

Contact the design team project manager: Rich Revering,
612-718-8412 or Richard.Revering@Bolton-Menk.com 

May in Downtown Parks: Openings, Art, Sports & Volunteer Opportunities

Via a May 7th e-announcement from Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

From art classes and book clubs and bocce ball, Downtown Parks are your go-to for spring fun. Here’s what’s happening this month:

 Grand Opening: The River Hub at Graco Park

Saturday, May 10 | 10 am–4 pm
Graco Park – 810 Sibley St NE, Minneapolis
Ribbon Cutting at noon

Join us as we celebrate the grand opening of The River Hub, marking the next chapter of Northeast Minneapolis’s riverfront transformation. From its origins as Scherer Bros. Lumber to its vibrant rebirth, this park is a true testament to community and environmental progress.

Opening Day Schedule:

• 10 am – Free Yoga with Bouldering Project
• 10 am–2 pm – Hornbeck Pack Boats and Canoe experiences 
• 10 am–4 pm – Minneapolis Park Market - featuring over twenty vendors
• 11:30 am – Opening Remarks
• Noon – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
• 12:30–4 pm –
  • Art Activities with Alec
  • Fat Bike Rides
  • Spark'd Studio Open House
  • Seed Library - bring some and take some
  • Cones & Creamery and KCM Egg Rolls onsite

Explore the new park building, enjoy art activities, and connect with nature at the river’s edge. It’s a day full of creativity, community, and celebration!

Park Palette: Weaving with t-shirts
Monday, May 12 | 6:30-8 pm
Water Works

Learn how to weave, knot, and tangle! In this class you will learn how to make yarn out of t-shirts and then use it to create some beautiful braiding to take home. We will provide t-shirts, but feel free to bring your own stash if you would like.

Cost: $15 residents | $22.50 non-residents

Register for Weaving

 Art-A-Whirl at Graco Park (30th Anniversary!)

Friday, May 16 | 5–10 pm
Saturday, May 17 | Noon–8 pm
Sunday, May 18 | Noon–5 pm

Celebrate Art-A-Whirl’s milestone anniversary with an amazing lineup of creative makers at Graco Park. Meet local artists and enjoy sustainable fashion, screen prints, and youth-driven art projects.

Featured Makers:

• Michele & Muse – Sustainable couture millinery

• Angry Peanut Press – Playful, small-batch screenprints (Closed Sunday)

• EcoPetites x Mad Mir Dye x janiette post industrial – Ethical, upcycled, hand-dyed clothing

• Blind Havoc – Streetwear spreading positivity

• The Pawfect Patch - Customized patches, beanies, and more!

• Spark’d Studios – Youth creativity & self-expression (Closed Sunday)

Spring Book Club: The French Winemaker's Daughter by Loretta Ellsworth
Monday, May 19 | 6:30-7:30 pm
Water Works – Free, drop-in

This month, we’re reading The French Winemaker’s Daughter by Loretta Ellsworth—a moving historical novel set during World War II. Told through the voices of two women generations apart, this story explores love, war, and loyalty, all connected by a mysterious bottle of wine stolen by the Nazis.

 Adult Summer Sports Leagues

Now open for registration! Whether you’re a casual player or a fierce competitor, we’ve got the perfect weeknight lineup.

 Grass Bocce Ball

• Tuesdays at North Loop Park

• Fridays at Water Works Park

 Kubb

• Wednesdays at Water Works

 Cornhole

• Thursdays at Water Works

 Games start at 5:30 pm and 7 pm

 Food & beverages available from Owamni’s Wakpa Bar at Water Works!

Learn more about our leagues

Get Involved: Volunteer with Downtown Parks

Give back, have fun, and be part of the magic that makes our parks special.

Downtown Parks Program Volunteer - Support weekly and monthly programs like arts, dance, games, and movie nights.

Downtown Parks Events Volunteer - Join us at major events like Kick-off to Summer, Red, White & Boom!, K-pop in the Sunset, and more!

Commons Garden Volunteer - Help maintain and beautify the planter boxes at The Commons (4th Street & Park Ave).

Learn more & sign up

Downtown Minneapolis Parks

The Commons Park - 425 Portland Avenue South

Gateway Park - 1 1st Street South

Graco Park - 15 8th Ave Northeast

Nicollet Island Park - 40 Power Street

North Loop Park - 731 N 3rd St 

Water Works at Mill Ruins Park - 425 West River Parkway

Questions? Email Aisling Reynolds, areynolds@minneapolisparks.org.