C4W:2022 Pinky Promise curated by Jamie Owens, Featuring 28 Local, National & International Artists at Gamut Gallery

Gamut Gallery's annual Call-4-Work exhibition is a chance for artists to push against preconceived norms of what art "should" be. All media is accepted for submission, artists of all levels are encouraged to submit, and there is never a predetermined theme for the exhibit. After reviewing the body of submitted works, each year's chosen guest curator is free to hand-select a group of pieces that showcase the complete "Gamut" of visual mediums. The resulting exhibit makes for a memorable, one-of-a-kind event the space is thrilled to host each fall. With guest curator Jamie Owens behind the wheel, Gamut Gallery's 2022 C4W exhibition, Pinky Promise, is an enthusiastic and unexpected portrayal of emerging, established, and outsider artists across North America and Mexico.

Jamie OwensJamie is a multi-disciplinary studio artist, preparator, designer, and curator living and working in Minneapolis. Having graduated with a bachelor's degree in design from MCAD in 2014, his art has gained an international audience of collectors. After being exhibited in New York City, Germany, the San Diego Museum of Art & History, and the Minneapolis Institute of Art, Jamie has widened his focus to include curatorial work. He notably curated “Cracked Pavement: Twin Cities Skateboarding Then & Now” (2018) at Gamut Gallery, and “Selections” (2019) at Revere Auctions.

"Art is this rare space where contemplation and play are intertwined, but as an artist myself, I've fallen into the camp of serious art making, and feel like my personal practice suffered for it.” With this in mind, the imagery Jamie has chosen approaches adult topics of identity and mental health, but with the spirit of freedom felt in the final days of summer. Pinky Promise is an unapologetically juvenile exhibition featuring a mashup of ideas and mediums through a youthful lens.

Gamut is delighted to announce that of the 28 artists chosen to participate in this year's event, more than two-thirds are displaying work with them for the first time:

Analeise Jarvi-Beamer, Ash Hagerstrand, Ashley Ray, Brian Nagel, Christopher Alday, Christopheraaron Deanes, Constance Klippen, Daniel Allyn Lee, Derek Meier, Desirée Forgét, Emily Quandahl, Emma Beatrez, Erin Peña, Gary Stewart, Jake Zirbes, Jeremy Jones, Jesse Quam, Jordan Shepherd, Luis David Moran, Mara Glover, Merick Reed, Nick Knutson, Odam Art, Richard Wehrs, Tara Robinson, Tina Ford, Tony Kukich, Xiao Faria daCunha 

Their art helps make up the final 32 pieces that will recast the gallery as a play-place for fearless experimentation within painting, illustration, sculpture, and digital media. Varying shades of pinks, greens, blues, and purples wildly ricochet off each other,  embracing visitors with the playful and sentimental energy of Pinky Promise. While this event is undoubtedly a party in itself, opening night attendees are invited to come for the art and stay for music held in the courtyard!

EXHIBIT OPENING - Friday, September 9th / 6 - 9 PM
•$7 pre-sale available, $10 day of event
• Free admission for members
• Featuring DJ Superbrush
• Curated by Jamie Owens

Returning this year, there will be two “Best in Show” awards. One will be selected by the guest curator and the other by opening night attendees. Both winners will be awarded $100 cash and Platinum Memberships to Gamut Gallery ($300 value). You will not want to miss the opportunity to help one of these artists take best in show. Mark your calendars for opening night!

C4W:2022 ART TALK - Wednesday, September 21st / 6:30PM
• $5 pre-sales, $7 day of event
• Free admission for members

Curator Jamie Owens and Moderator Juleana Enright sit down for a conversation with three selected C4W artists Christopheraaron Deanes, Emily Quandahl and Jeremy Jones.

Christopheraaron DeanesChristopheraaron’s work contextualizes the building of creative social capital in humanity to illuminate the journey of benevolence. After graduating from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design with his BFA, Christopheraaron went on to obtain his Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction in Education from the University of St. Thomas. He later completed the Administrative (Eds) program at St. Mary’s University and a fellowship through the University of Minnesota, Urban Educators Program. He currently, works as a Culture and Climate Coordinator in Fridley Public schools. Christopheaaron’s work squarely focuses on the development of the chance to have a critical conversation about race and everyone’s role that we place in securing the future for a better more empathetic and equitable space for us.

Emily QuandahlEmily Quandahl is an abstract artist and muralist based in Minneapolis. Her studio work is created in layers by experimenting with techniques and mediums, starting on the floor with a base of diluted acrylics and building from there. With over 12 years devoted to studying classical viola, her compositions are inherently musical in their movements, while maintaining a balance between organic gestures and line-work, united by use of color. 

Jeremy JonesJeremy Jones is originally from Casper, WY and received a BFA in ceramics and sculpture from the University of Wyoming in 2006 and an MFA in sculpture from Wichita State University in 2012. He creates toy-like sculptures and assemblages that seek to enshrine the everyday moments of child rearing/parenthood. Jones has exhibited his work throughout the greater United States with notable spaces including: Space 204 at Vanderbilt University, The Nicolaysen Art Museum and the Macy Gallery at Columbia University. Jones currently lives and works in the Twin Cities.

Juleana EnrightJuleana Enright is an Indigenous, queer, non-binary writer, curator, and DJ living in Minneapolis. They are a member of the Sicangu Lakota Tribe of Lower Brulé. Their past roles have included culture editor for l’étoile magazine and communications specialist for Gamut Gallery. They have contributed writing to Pride Magazine, mplsart.com, Primer, and City Pages. Juleana has curated two art exhibitions, including their own solo show in the spring of 2018, titled “Soft Boundaries.” Juleana is the co-founder of the multi-sensory queer dance and performance night, Feelsworldwide. In 2019, Juleana co-directed Lightning Rod, a week-long works-in-process theatre initiative. In 2020, they were a participating artist in Controlled Burn. They are the recipient of the Emerging Curators Institute 2020 fellowship.

CoLab ART NIGHT - Wednesday, October 5th / 7 – 10PM

All skill-levels are welcome! Bring your own materials or work from those we provide, and join us for another wholesome night of making art with friends! All visual disciplines are welcome: painting, drawing, sewing, projections, photography, design, sculpture, collage, and more. Work together, collaborate, or work solo!
• $10 pre-sale, $10 day of the event
• 18+
• Limited Capacity Event

Follow Gamut on Facebook and Instagram for further details and information regarding the event.

Repairs Coming Soon for Three Historic Minneapolis Park Buildings, Including Ard Godfrey House

Siding on the Ard Godfrey House was repaired in October 2021 thanks to a partnership with the Hennepin County Community Productive Day Program

Partnership with Hennepin County Community Corrections and Rehabilitation aids effort to rehabilitate historic park buildings

The Ard Godfrey House, John H. Stevens House, and Longfellow House are scheduled for repairs this fall as part of ongoing efforts to rehabilitate historic structures located in Minneapolis parks.

Repairs at the Ard Godfrey House will be performed by participants in the Hennepin County's Productive Day Program, which pays people on parole or probation an hourly training stipend while they learn transferable skills. Participants who successfully complete on-the-job training and off-site classroom curriculum earn a certificate in general carpentry skills and are prepared for union apprenticeship employment. 

The partnership between Hennepin County Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) began last summer, when participants repaired siding on the Ard Godfrey House. After those successful repairs in 2021, program participants will return to the Ard Godfrey House to paint its exterior this fall. 

The historic Ard Godfrey House, located at 28 University Ave. SE in Chute Square, is the oldest surviving frame home in the Twin Cities. Built in 1848, the Greek Revival house was the residence for the Ard Godfrey family. The building was extensively restored by the Woman’s Club of Minneapolis in 1975 and opened to public tours in 1979. A replica of the house’s kitchen wing, which had collapsed in 1908, opened in 1985. It's filled with furnishings and household items authentic to the period 1849-1853. The Ard Godfrey House is open weekends 1-4 pm in June, July and August for free guided tours. Learn more at the Women's Club of Minneapolis website.

Stewardship Funding Grants from Mississippi Watershed Management Organization (MWMO)

Article by Becky Fillinger  Photo credit: MWMO

Adam Flett, Communications and Outreach Specialist, MWMO Listen up neighborhood organizations, block clubs, non-profits, home owner associations and more – three types of grants are available to you from MWMO for projects that range from Community Grants, Planning Grants and Action Grants. We talked to Adam Flett, Communications and Outreach Specialist and Alicia Beattie, Capital Projects and Stewardship Specialist, about the different types of funding available and how to apply. 

Q:  Please tell us more about your Stewardship Funding Grants. How many years have they been awarded?

A:  Stewardship Fund Grants are designed to support small- to medium-sized projects and programs to manage stormwater, control pollution, and improve water quality and habitat.

Alicia Beattie, Capital Projects and Stewardship Specialist, MWMOOur Stewardship Fund Grant program has been around for approximately 20 years, and has spawned a wide range of creative projects. The grants can be used for in-the-ground infrastructure like raingardens, but they can also be used for more outreach-focused projects that help build community understanding, initiative, and engagement in creating solutions. 

Our board of commissioners recently approved a funding increase for the program, so that up to 40 percent more money is available in a given year to support our three different grant types. Community Grants (up to $5,000) are available for short-term or small-scale projects. Planning Grants (up to $20,000) help organizations prepare planning and design documents for future projects. Action Grants (up to $50,000) are our largest Stewardship Fund Grant type, and are used to fund water quality and stewardship projects that are significant in scope and cost.

Full information on grant types and eligibility can be found on our Stewardship Fund Grants web page. (For large-scale, innovative projects over $50,000, the MWMO also has a separate Capital Project Grants program.) 

Q:  Who may apply? Is it intended for individuals or organizations? 

A:  Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, schools, faith-based organizations, local units of government, and business or homeowner associations. Individuals, for-profit businesses, and political organizations are not eligible to receive funding directly; however, they may partner with eligible organizations to apply for our grants.

The grants are awarded through a competitive process. Applications that demonstrate a number of connections between organizations, communities and individuals tend to appear more competitive in a pool of applicants. Our watershed is incredibly diverse, and creating partnerships that invest in leadership from individuals and communities of color, or other groups that have been marginalized, are central to the Stewardship Fund.

Q:  Do you supervise the projects to ensure compliance with MWMO policies?

A:  There are certainly parts of the project that need to meet our policies, particularly those related to what is required when entering a contract agreement with the MWMO. This might include rules around where money can be spent, or helping our grantee partners understand what are permissible activities when using government funding. We also provide guidance to help ensure that projects are achieving their expected outcomes.

Q:  Are matching funds required?

A:  We don’t require matching funds for Community Grants. For our Planning and Action Grants, a 25 percent match is required. The match may consist of cash or in-kind support (e.g., volunteer time, donated materials, or services).

Q:  How are the grants funded?

A:  The MWMO is a joint-powers local unit of government. The MWMO raises funds via a property tax levy to carry out our mission. This annual levy is the primary source of revenue for all of the MWMO’s activities, including the Stewardship Fund program.

Grant applications are reviewed by MWMO staff, with invitations to meet and discuss project ideas. Selected applicants use feedback to complete final applications. Planning and Action Grant applications are also reviewed by the Citizen Advisory Committee and are brought to the MWMO Board of Commissioners for final review and approval.

Q:  Do you provide help in writing the grant requests? 

A:  We take an active role in helping applicants think through their project before they apply. We meet with potential grant applicants and discuss their ideas, provide feedback on what requirements must be addressed or what would make the idea more compelling during review, and assist in creating connections with potential partners. We offer to look at grant application materials and provide suggestions prior to the deadlines. We also continue to offer support to grantees after funds are awarded, with tips and guidance on project management, design review, communications, outreach, long-term maintenance strategies, and more.

Q:  What's the timeline of the grant cycle?

A:  For Community Grants, there are typically two rounds per year, with initial deadlines in April and December. Planning Grants are due once annually in March, with award in July. Action Grants are due once annually in November, with award in March. Projects must be completed within one year after the contract is signed.

Watershed Trash Can Mural - Community Grant 

Elliot Park Skate Plaza - Action Grant

Islamic Cultural  Community Center - Action Grant 

East Side Water Watch - Community Grant

Nicollet Island Restoration (Planning Grant, Action Grant)

Q:  Could you tell us about prior grantee projects?

A:  Projects have ranged from neighborhood-led efforts to restore woodland and prairie habitat to educational programming for kids. Each project helps increase stewardship and community awareness of ways to improve urban water quality and habitat. A few recent examples include a North Loop neighborhood-led initiative to restore habitat at James Rice Park, construction of raingardens at University Baptist Church, and implementation of the Northeast Adopt-a-Drain Challenge.

Q: How may we follow your news?

A: You can sign up to receive e-newsletters on our website at mwmo.org where it says “Subscribe to email updates” at the bottom of the landing page. We also post regularly on social media – Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Folks can also contact staff directly with questions and project ideas.

The Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival is this Weekend, August 13 and 14

The Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival is returning on Saturday, August 13 and Sunday, August 14 with its largest lineup yet. Visit the Street Art Festival along Nicollet and see amazing chalk art, spray paintings by world-renown artists, live music, food trucks, interactive activities and much more. The Festival is produced by the Mpls Downtown Improvement District and Hennepin Theatre Trust. Follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Saturday, August 13

• Nicollet Chalk Art Festival | 10 am – 6 pm
• 3D Chalk Art Installation at IDS | 10 am – 6 pm
• Live Spray Painting on Nicollet | 10 am – 6 pm
• Street Eats (food trucks and more) on Nicollet | 10 am – 6 pm
• Nicollet Makers Market Festival Edition | 10 am – 6 pm
• Pedal to the Metal | 10 am – 6 pm
• Heart and Soul Drum and Dance Academy | 11  am & 1 pm
• La Luchadora | 11 am – 5 pm
• Mobile Sign Shop | 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
• Street Show performances | 12 & 2 pm
• Festival concert featuring headliner Bad Bad Hats. On Saturday, headliner Bad Bad Hats and opener Kokou Kah will be taking the stage on Nicollet at 7th Street for a free concert. Self-described as a true fusion Liberian American artist, Kokou Kah will get you ready to groove during his opening set at 3:30 pm. Following Kokou Kah’s performance, indie rock trio, and Minneapolis natives, Bad Bad Hats will be taking to the stage for a fun and upbeat-filled close out to the first day of the Festival.

Sunday, August 14

• Nicollet Chalk Art Festival | 10 am – 6 pm
• 3D Chalk Art Installation at IDS Center | 10 am – 6 pm
• Live Spray Painting on Nicollet | 10 am - 6pm
• Street Eats (food trucks and more) on Nicollet | 10 am – 6 pm
• Nicollet Makers Market Festival Edition | 10 am – 6 pm
• Pedal to the Metal | 10 am – 6 pm
• Mobile Sign Shop | 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
• La Luchadora | 11 am – 5 pm
• Street Show performances on Nicollet | 11 am, 12:30, 3:30, and 4:30 pm
• zAmya Theater Project “Second Chances” encore | 2 – 3 pm

Must See Exhibit: Teo Nguyen’s Việt Nam Peace Project, Minneapolis Institute of Art

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Teo NguyenTeo Nguyen’s Việt Nam Peace Project is on display at Mia until June 18 of next year. Don’t wait to see it – you might want to visit more than once. This exhibit features beautiful photorealist paintings that reference familiar, historic images by photojournalists documenting the war in Vietnam, but after removing the characteristics of war. The multi-media show is composed of the photorealist paintings, sculpture,  a ten-panel mural of white lotus flowers and more. We talked to him about art and peace, our shared humanity and Minneapolis as his home of choice.

Q:  You’ve said that "peace is a practice." Could you tell us a bit more about this idea? Was it a peaceful practice to create the works in this exhibit?

From the "Viet Nam Peace Project: Memories of Home" seriesA:  When I say, “peace is practice,” I mean to actively engage in the art of empathy and knowledge seeking, especially with those I have yet to break bread with. Practicing peace is about forging a difference-friendly world. I have observed that we tend to fabricate our own answers to the people and places we don’t understand. This often results in hostility. One way to mitigate the conflict is to engage with different people and to share perspectives – thereby broadening our views. The Việt Nam Peace Project is my invitation to engage with curiosity, newness, and understanding of the cultural and spiritual lens through which my art was conceived. I resonate my Vietnamese American cultural values and my animist spirituality in my artwork – including my Midwest landscapes and abstracts. With the Việt Nam Peace Project, my cultural and spiritual lenses are intertwined with personal stories.

I emigrated to the United States at the age of 16 and soon observed the depictions of Vietnamese people, in documentaries, art exhibitions, cinema, and news, to be lesser, foreign, and bizarre. I also heard people speak of Vietnam, not as a country or a people, but a war. Rather than confronting this fallacy with discord, I sought to move my own narrative from the peripheral to the center of public discourse. Through this exhibition, I hope for us to find connectedness through our shared humanity. This is one way I practice peace.

Creating the Việt Nam Peace Project was reflective and meditative. It was a privilege for me to make a film about my mom and her poems - her cherished memories and her years of displacement. With Remembering Others, my paper installation, I show reverence for lives lost. I also present the sorrow imprinted in Vietnam’s landscapes through my paintings. The Agent Orange sculpture is my reminder of the continuing devastations of war on human and environment, even as the rest of the world forget. The Lotus, a symbol of peace and optimism, is presented in a large-scale mural and represent my hope that we will continue to learn and commit to peace as a practice.

Q:  A 2017 study published in Frontiers of Human Neuroscience discussed the value of art to create empathy, social knowledge, and self-understanding – which can lead to greater peace among members of a society. Given that as a truth, how do we infuse more art into society to tamp down burgeoning conflict or misunderstandings?

A:  I also believe in the transformative nature of art and the possibilities to affect social change. I say “possibilities” because art, as an institution, has room for improvement. We need to look no further than the canonized artists. How many are women compared to men? How many non-Europeans? My art practice, therefore, is my reimagining of a difference-friendly world. Significance and impact are too often defined by those with positional power. The consequences are the narrow and dominant narratives that are repeated until they are believed to be absolute truths. Through my art, I challenge these majoritarian narratives, particularly those that dehumanize differences.

From the "Viet Nam Peace Project: Memories of Home" series

Q:  Will the pieces of this exhibition travel to Vietnam? I like your statement that your pieces can help us – Americans and Vietnamese – continue to move forward together.

A:  To have the Việt Nam Peace Project exhibited in my adopted hometown is my dream realized. To have the Việt Nam Peace Project exhibited in the country where my parents and I were born is to have my artistic lineage fully realized.

Q:  We visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC and look at the names of the 58,000+ U.S. soldiers who died in the Vietnam war and are overwhelmed. Most US citizens have no idea that over 3 million Vietnamese soldiers and civilians died during the same conflict. Without disparaging or minimizing any sacrifice, how do we encourage people to consider the full extent of war casualties?

A:  Remembering Others, my paper installation, is my memorializing and expression of reverence for the Vietnamese and American lives lost during the war. The Vietnam War Memorial in Washington D.C. is 150 yards with 58,220 names of American soldiers inscribed on the black granite; if a similar monument were built with the same density of names of the Vietnamese who died in it, it would be 10 miles long. This Vietnam War Memorial shows that remembering while excluding is in itself a form of forgetting. While remembering others - oriented toward inclusion, is healing and reconciliatory. It can only be accomplished through an ethical memory that recalls not just one’s own, but also engages the memories of the “others.” For us to realize the full extent of war casualties, we must first eliminate the line that separate us and them. To make peace a practice is to find connectedness in our shared humanity. It is a shared responsibility, and it takes intentional work.

Q:  My Being is a short film inspired by the poetry of your mother, Duong Anh Loi, who, like many Vietnamese, was displaced during the war. We will see this film during the Mia exhibit. Is your mother able to visit the exhibit? If so, will she read her poetry during the Việt Nam Peace Project exhibition?

A:  My mother is living in Vietnam. It would be lovely for me to listen to her read her poetry in the exhibition. Unfortunately, she is elder, and her health prevents her from traveling. I feel extremely fortunate to have made the film while she is with us to view it.

Q:  Why is Minneapolis home to you?

A:  Seventeen years ago, Micah (my husband) and I put down our roots in Minneapolis, our adopted home. We visited Minnesota several times and fell in love with the natural beauty of rural Minnesota and the cultural offerings of the Twin Cities. We appreciate the quality of life, especially the significantly short commutes compared to Southern California. We continue to be drawn to how Minnesotans continue to welcome refugees, immigrants, and transplants. The exceptional level of civil discourse and civic engagement appeal to us. As Minnesotans, we seek to understand differences. Because of these things, I believe that the Việt Nam Peace Project, rightfully has its first showing in our hometown.

Q:  Before working on large scale photorealistic paintings, did you create small studies with colored pencils or watercolors? If yes, are those available for viewing?

A:  I bring a sketch book with me when I take long drives. Burnet Fine Arts have shown my studies in the past. The ones I’ve shown recently have been abstracts.

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  I have a website - TeoNguyen.com.

Also, see my works at Burnet Fine Arts in Wayzata, and L’Usine Gallery at 1107 Washington Avenue S.

Weekly Events at Peavey Plaza August 7 - 13

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

Minnesota Orchestra: Summer at Orchestra Hall

Sunday, August 7

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

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YWCA Minneapolis Yoga on the Plaza

Tuesday, August 9 from 5:30-6:30pm

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

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Minnesota Horn Quartet

Wednesday, August 10 from 12-1pm

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Emerging as one of the Midwest’s premiere brass ensembles, the Minnesota Horn Quartet (MNHQ) was founded in 2017 by Allyson Partin, William Eisenberg, Matthew Renz, and N. Jennings White. While MNHQ plays the classics, both major works and transcriptions, they also explore jazz and popular music as part of their mission to expand the repertoire of horn quartet music.

MNspin Musician of the Week: Leslie Rich and the Rocket Soul Choir

Thursday, August 11 from 12-1pm 

Leslie Rich (vocals, guitar, keyboards) grew up in Northern Ireland, listening to a mix of indie rock, acoustic songwriters and traditional Celtic music. He founded the Rocket Soul Choir in 1994, mainly as an

acoustic response to the heavy, guitar-driven, Irish bands cropping up at that time. Even while Leslie recorded solo albums, played in other projects and relocated to Minneapolis, the Rocket Soul Choir continued in various configurations over the years–always with the mission to create stripped-down rock.

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Enzyrose

Thursday, August 11 from at 6:30-7:30p

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Minneapolis native, Enzyrose, is proving to be one of its brightest talents. Laying her life in music through effortless versatility and fearless honesty, the young star continues to defy the norm.. Whether it’s an intimate serenade on a relaxing chord progression or a blazing freestyle on upbeat percussion, she relays her message – the truth.

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Children’s Theatre Company Story Theatre 

Saturday, August 13 at 12-12:30pm & 12:30-1pm

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

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

The Importance of Aunties in Indigenous Communities: A Discussion with Curator and Multidisciplinary Artist Hillary Kempenich

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Hillary Kempenich Photo: Nedahness Rose GreeneAll My Relations Arts’ juried exhibition, Noojimo (She Heals), recognizes and celebrates the importance of Aunties in Indigenous communities. We talked to curator Hillary Kempenich (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa) about bringing the juried show together – it showcases the works of 14 artists and is open through September 17. It is a powerful tribute to courageous women who step into the role of Auntie, and it just might inspire you to step up your game with the next generation.

Q:  Please tell us more about the role of Aunties in Indigenous communities. Were Aunties important to you personally?

A:  In many communities, Aunties have a special role with children, I personally did not realize there is a unique bond within Indigenous spaces until I moved away from the Turtle Mountain community. However, when I had the privilege to be amongst fellow Indigenous people, there was always a kinship especially to the Aunt-figures within those spaces. Aunts often take the role of the other mother/second parent, or other grandmother; the Auntie often serves in an extra parental role who provides mental, physical, and spiritual support to younger relatives.

A lot of my childhood memories are filled with spending time with the many Aunties that I had been blessed with. Some lived within our family cluster of homes, some out in the countryside, and some lived away from us, yet I still have an abundance of memories being with them as my parents were building a life for us. I will forever remember my little legs walking down the gravel road to my Aunt Tiny’s to spend the days with her, where she’d keep my little creative spirit busy with baking, knitting, and so on even as a young child. I also fondly remember those long road trips to spend the summer with my aunts who worked for Circle of Nations. Now, the roles have shifted, and I do my best to mentor not just my biological nieces and nephews, but those who have asked me to step into that role for them as well.

Q:  How did you go about putting together the exhibition? Did you have assistance in curating the show?

A:  I believe it was in late November of last year when I approached Angela Two Stars of All My Relations and NACDI about one of my many ideas of work I’d like to create; amidst that conversation came to be this show. Much of my work is in hopes to help amplify the beauty and strength of Indigenous women, without romanticism or fetishism. I firmly believe that we should tell our own stories, and this was an opportunity to help fellow Indigenous artists to do the same. Heid E. Erdrich was my curator coach for this show, who was able to reassure me and give valuable feedback. I am also very fortunate to have worked decades ago in a museum and volunteer, which established some great insight. 

Q:  Can you tell us about the featured artists?

A:  There are so many amazing talented artists as part of this show. It was incredibly challenging to narrow down from a very long list, which was filled with artists who I wanted to work with, reconnect with, and/or amplify their work. Nedahness Rose Greene and I had met a few years ago when I was working with Watermark Art Center for a show, where I was blown away by her abilities as a photographer. I knew then that I needed to create space to highlight her work. Also, a lot of my artwork is utilized in advocacy efforts, so naturally I am drawn to fellow artists who do the same, which is how I came across Somah Haaland and Agnes Woodward as well. Each artist has such unique talents to express that love, passion and respect that is shared for the role of an auntie.

Hillary at the Noojimo (She Heals) exhibit.

Q:  Will you work with All My Relations Gallery on future shows? What's coming up for you after this show?

A:  If they’ll have me back, of course I would love to continue to work with All My Relations Gallery. It is a unique and supportive space which embraces the creative spirit, I am honored to be working with a great team. I am also working on my own series of paintings and installation work combining the affinity I have for foraging, gardening, and how that is synonymous with the feminine spirit. I hope to have it on display in Fargo in the fall, and perhaps I will find other spaces to showcase it. I spend a lot of my time also helping organizations in the communities I am in as well as mentoring individuals, which I don’t see changing any time soon. 

Q:  Are there events surrounding the exhibit that are open to the public?

A:  Yes - There is a Curator’s Talk August 11, 6:30 pm at AMRA. The Artist’s Talk Closing Reception is September 9th 6-8 pm. Stay tuned via NACDI and AMRA social media for further announcements for possible community engagement programs.

Q:  Where may we see your artwork? How may we follow your news?

A:  I have a website that I manage myself, so forgive the lapse in updates - many independent artists have a lot of other duties beyond creating the actual work itself. My Instagram, @zazegaadesigns, is often updated, and Facebook.

MacPhail Announces 3rd Annual Back to School Supply Drive

Our neighbors at MacPhail Center for Music would very much appreciate school supply donations to assist local organizations they partner with. See below for details on needed items and how to donate in person and online:

Shopping Basket from the August 6 Mill City Farmers Market

 I hope you didn't let intermittent sprinkles keep you from shopping at the August 6th Mill City Farmers Market. The melon from Nistler Farms is so sweet! 

4th Street Reconstruction Project Update - August 5

4th Street Reconstruction Project Overview

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

What's Happening Next Week?

* * * * Roadway reconstruction completing August 12 * * * *

• All roadway, sidewalk, and trail paving are complete.
• This week, crews are finalizing signal and lighting work and conducting concrete restoration work.
• In preparation for roadway opening, crews will be completing final cleanup of the construction zone.
• At this time, an additional lane on the north side of the roadway is now open to local access. Fourth Street will be open to through traffic starting August 12.

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

What to expect during construction?

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

Stay connected

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

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

Email the project team: info@4thstmpls.com

Contact the project hotline: 612-412-9774

Cool Job: Dr. Robin Thomson, Curator, Insect Collection, University of Minnesota Department of Entomology

Article by Becky Fillinger

Dr. Robin Thomson, photo credit Becky Fillinger 

Dr. Robin Thomson is the Curator of the U's Department of Entomology Insect Collection. It’s an amazing job that many of us aren't familiar with. We visited with her to find out about a typical day, discuss our state’s endangered species, and how to learn more about the collection with over four million species.

Q:  What is a typical day for you as Curator of the Insect Collection at the University of Minnesota Department of Entomology?

A:  The first thing I do each day, like many people, is to check my email in-box and see if there are any new requests for specimens or data. Among other things, this could lead to putting together a loan of insect specimens to be mailed to a researcher outside of the University of MN community, pulling together a small dataset based on specimens in the Insect Collection, or helping someone figure out the proper paperwork for various permits. If there are no immediate needs to be filled for individual researchers, I have a never-ending list of projects to be tackled in the collection, including the incorporation of new specimens obtained through donations or fieldwork, or the re-curation and taxonomic updating of older sections of the Insect Collection. Databasing specimen information to make it easier to share with both the research community and the general public has also become an on-going project.

Q:  Why did entomology appeal to you as a subject of study?

A:  Insects are extremely diverse and absolutely fascinating! If you can imagine some sort of weird life history trait, there’s a good chance it actually occurs in at least one species of insect. With around one million insect species known to science, and many more yet to be discovered and described, there’s always something new to learn.

Q:  With over four million insect species specimens in the U’s collection, are you often called upon by national and international colleagues for information or assistance?

A:  Yes, I interact fairly regularly with colleagues from outside of the University of MN community. It’s pretty normal for researchers from some of the local organizations or state agencies to use the Insect Collection as a resource; for example, the MN Department of Agriculture, the MN Department of Natural Resources, and the Minnesota Zoo have all made use of the Collection. Reaching outside of the Twin Cities, I often loan specimens out to researchers at other universities across the country and around the world. In the past several months, I’ve sent insects to researchers located across the U.S. and in Australia, Belgium, Canada, and Germany.

Arm tattoo of a species of microcaddisfly, Ascotrichia frontalis, photo credit Becky Fillinger 

Q:  Do you participate in the field collection of insects?

A:  Yes, I love getting out for fieldwork when I get the chance! Earlier this spring, I was part of a field trip to Ecuador focused on documenting the regional diversity of caddisflies. Caddisflies are aquatic as larvae, and the adults are crepuscular, so we were out every night of that trip at collection sites near rivers using UV lights shining on a white sheet to attract the adults. I recently received a grant that will allow me to plan more fieldwork over the next few years, so I’m planning several trips that will take me to sites both domestic and abroad.

Rusty-patched bumble beeQ:  Are there certain endangered species of Minnesota insects we should be aware of?

A:  The rusty-patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis) occurs in Minnesota and was listed as federally endangered in 2017. The University of MN Bee Lab has posted more information regarding how to identify the rusty-patched bumble bee and how to report it if you think you’ve seen it (https://beelab.umn.edu/rusty-patched-bumble-bee). The MN Department of Natural Resources also keeps a list of Minnesota’s endangered, threatened, and special concern species, including the insects: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ets/index.html.

Q:  What will you teach this year?

A:  I will be teaching Insect Biodiversity & Evolution this coming fall, though, for both undergraduate and graduate students. It’s a fun course focused on the diversity of insect life and its evolutionary history; students will learn how to identify different insects to the family level and will make their own insect collection.

Q:  May the public tour the collection? Do you also offer offsite educational sessions?

A:  Unfortunately, due to staffing and resource constraints, the Insect Collection is unable to offer tours to the general public. I do my best to accommodate tour requests for larger formal groups; some of the local colleges schedule tours for their undergrad classes fairly regularly. I do occasionally engage in educational sessions for K-12 classes, either on- or off-site, but my ability to offer these varies pretty wildly depending on my schedule.

Q:  How may we follow your very interesting news?

A:  The Insect Collection is housed within the Department of Entomology and you can follow any news, check on upcoming events and seminars, or read our department newsletter by following the links on our department home page, https://entomology.umn.edu/.

You’ll also find the Department of Entomology on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

City Council Declares August 7-13 Farmers Market Week

Excerpt from the City of Minneapolis August 4 e-news

The Minneapolis City Council has approved a resolution declaring Aug. 7-13 Farmers Market Week. Many farmers markets have special events planned in honor of Minneapolis Farmers Market Week, including live music, chef demonstrations, yoga, raffles and children’s activities. Shoppers can check their favorite market’s website and social media channels to see what’s going on.

Sign seen at the Mill City Farmers Market. Photo: Mill City TimesNineteen farmers markets and mini markets operate in Minneapolis this year. The City of Minneapolis has an online interactive map that makes it easy to find farmers markets all over the city. Clicking on the map pins on the City's website will show the address, season dates, opening times and web address for each market.

An important economic engine, the markets operating in Minneapolis together represented more than $10 million in vendor sales with more than 450 vendors in 2021. The 2021 market vendors in Minneapolis welcomed an estimated 900,000 visitors. Buying food directly at a farmers market strengthens the connection between the business and the customer; in 2021, 95.4% of products sold were produced or made by the vendor.

Local produce is fresh, nutritious and affordable. Most of the markets accept SNAP-EBT (“electronic benefits transfer”) cards as payment, as well as Market Bucks, which provides $20 more for healthy food to market shoppers using SNAP-EBT. In 2021, customers at the Farmers Markets of Minneapolis redeemed more than $180,000 in Market Bucks and SNAP/EBT, showing expanded access to fresh, healthy food for Minneapolis residents who experience food insecurity and receive federal food assistance. Forty-four percent of market vendors donated leftover produce to hunger relief programs in 2021.

Many Minneapolis residents can reach a farmers market on foot or by bicycle, which is good exercise and doesn’t pollute. Many of the farmers markets also serve to build community with prepared food, environment-themed educational activities and music.

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project - August 4 Update

Hennepin Avenue Downtown Reconstruction Project

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

Latest Project News

The Hennepin Construction is winding down for the season and Hennepin will reopen this Friday with a single lane in each direction.  All the concrete has been poured and now the focus turns to installing signals and lighting.  The last of the sidewalk areas were poured this week and some of the signal poles were installed as well. 

What's Coming Up

Over the next few weeks the remaining signal and light poles will be installed and begin to be wired.  Planting beds will be prepped and landscape items will start to be installed in late August. r the next few weeks the remaining signal and light poles will be installed and begin to be wired.  Planting beds will be prepped and landscape items will start to be installed in late August.

For more information see attached weekly update.  Hennepin_Update_Vol101.pdf

Contact Info

For more information on this project contact: 

Project email: hennepinCM@minneapolismn.gov

Phone: 612-255-4049

Website: www.hennepindowntown.com 

Small Business Spotlight: Tare Market, For a Zero Waste Lifestyle

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Amber Haukedahl

Above, the 2717 E 38th Street store. You'll find the second location at 945 Broadway Street NE, Suite 103, in Northeast.Looking for ways to live more sustainably? Whether you’re just starting or if you’re in the market for some new zero waste living tips, check out Tare Market. We talked to Amber Haukedahl, founder, about her inspiration for starting the business and the products and services her business can offer. 

Q:  Please tell us the origins of your interest in zero waste living.

A:  After graduating with a degree in Conservation Biology, I traveled through South America operating research stations. I felt that the work I was doing to help protect the habitat for endangered species was falling short, and that I wanted to do more to help make a positive impact on the environment.

When I discovered zero waste after moving to Minnesota in 2017, I was empowered to live a waste-free lifestyle and to help others do the same. After two years of educating myself on everything related to zero waste - including facilitating presentations around the Twin Cities, tabling at events and fairs, and developing the business concept for Tare Market (the first zero waste store in Minnesota!) - I opened Tare Market. Since its inception, it has grown to include over 700 products, supporting many women and BIPOC makers, and helping divert over 34,000 plastic bags from the landfill.

Q:  When did the first location of Tare Market open its doors?  

A:  Our first location in the Standish-Ericsson neighborhood at 2717 E 38th Street, opened on Earth Day of 2019.

Q:  What products will we find at Tare Market? 

A:  We offer products that are good for people and the planet. Products that are plastic-free, that will help you move towards a sustainable lifestyle. We have an extensive refill section for household cleaners like dishwashing and laundry powders, bulk food (think rice, beans, granolas, dried fruit, coffee and snacks), travel items, and health and beauty items. We strive to offer products that are locally made by women, are organic, and are made with sustainably harvested ingredients.

Reusable bags for bulk foodstuffs

Forget a container? Tare Market has a selection of free sanitized containers for shoppers to use. Customers can also bring in reusable containers for the staff to sanitize and put on the cart for others.

Dental care products are among the many health and beauty items available at Tare

Q:  When we visit your store, are you able to guide us as shoppers on how to start a zero-waste lifestyle? 

A:  Yes! We are here to help you wherever you are on your sustainable living journey. We are a judgment-free space where you can come in and talk one-on-one with our wonderful staff. They will help you figure out what will work with your lifestyle and your budget. We also offer resources to help our community live more sustainably. One of these examples is that we offer free containers through our community jar program. If you come by and don't have your own containers to refill, you can utilize a sanitized jar to fill up with whatever you want. We also take containers, too! This helps keep recycling out of the system and encourages reuse.

Another example is our community recycling program at both of our locations. You can recycle items at Tare Market that you typically cannot put into your curbside bin, such as textiles, snack wrappers, and disposable masks. Please check our website or call us to learn what we are currently accepting. This community recycling program is for customers only, as they support this program by rounding up at the register. So, we encourage you to become a customer to utilize this program. 

Q:  Do you provide education for groups – outside of the store – for more sustainable living? 

A:  We do offer classes to the public on Transitioning Your Home to Zero Waste and often do presentations at community events to reach more people. We do facilitate this presentation to private groups as well, so email us if you are interested in learning more about having Tare Market speak to your school, work space, or other private group.

Q:  Do you allow for wedding or birthday registries to be set up at Tare Market?

A:  We are a small company that just launched our online store, so we are working on this capability right now. You can always reach out to us at hello@taremarket.com to request something like this and we will work with you to make it happen.

Q:  Please explain how to - and why we should consider - swapping out paper towels for a better option?

A:  Swapping out reusable cloth towels for paper towels is better for the planet and your wallet. With a disposable paper towel, you are spending your money on something that you are literally throwing away. This product also comes wrapped in plastic, and you have to drive to go get it when you run out, increasing the carbon footprint of this item. And at the end of its life, it either gets thrown into the landfill, incinerator, or composted (if you are lucky). With a reusable cloth towel, you purchase one set and never have to purchase a replacement ever again, saving you lots of money over the course of your lifetime. This product comes with a small paper sleeve that can be placed into your recycling, and has no other waste associated with it. 

Q:  Congratulations on opening a second store location! Besides shopping at the two Tare Market locations, how may we follow your advice and news? 

A:  Thank you – yes, we’re now at 945 Broadway Street NE, Suite 103, in Northeast. You can subscribe to our newsletter by singing up on thetaremarket.com, and please do follow us on Instagram and Facebook.  

RJM Construction Begins Second Duffey Development

Rendering of the second phase of the Duffey project. Image: CEDARst Companies

Adaptive Reuse Brings New Life to Historic North Loop Buildings

Following the recent grand opening of The Duffey on Washington Ave. in Minneapolis’s North Loop neighborhood, RJM Construction has started a $171 million second development, currently named Duffey 2.0.

The project involves adaptive reuse by converting existing buildings located at 608 3rd St. N., and 300 6th Ave. N., and a new ground-up building on an existing surface lot located at 246 7th Ave. N. Together, the 550,000 square feet project will have 358 multifamily units and 42,000 square feet of retail space. The project is scheduled for completion in late 2023.

“After nearly two years of extensive preconstruction work, we are excited to get this second Duffey project off the ground,” said Ted Beckman, senior vice president of RJM Construction. “

CEDARst Companies and BKV Group have been outstanding partners and we are honored to be working with them again. We look forward to preserving the history of these amazing buildings while creating a valuable, modern asset for the North Loop community.”

The new project required approval by the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission and the National Park Service and received historic tax credits given its landmark status and location.

Like the first Duffey project, the adaptive reuse portion of Duffey 2.0 requires complex strategies to accommodate apartment units, commercial space, a basement parking ramp and many other amenities. The iconic skyway connecting the two buildings, which predates the Minneapolis skyway system, will be restored and modernized.

The development will offer studio, one, two, and three-bedroom floorplans that range from 500 to 1,500 square feet. These additional Duffey properties were acquired by CEDARst for $21.1 million in April 2020 and recently closed on financing to officially commence the project this month.

“In comparison to a typical institutional 350-unit new construction project, the degree of difficulty in executing these large adaptive reuse multi-family projects with historical tax credits is exponential,” said Mark Heffron, managing director and chief development officer for CEDARst. “For that reason, we’re thrilled to have RJM on our second venture in the North Loop.”

The St. Anthony Zouaves

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

Sunday, April 14th, 1861, two days after the first shots of the Civil War were fired upon Fort Sumter; Governor Alexander Ramsey was visiting Washington D.C. when the news broke and became the first to offer troops to President Abraham Lincoln in order to quash the rebellion. Lt. Governor Ignatius Donnelly was notified of the situation and two days later, sent out a proclamation calling for one infantry regiment consisting of ten companies. At the time, many up-and-coming Minnesota communities had their own volunteer militias, and these militias would come together at Fort Snelling to form the 1st Minnesota Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

1864 painting "The Brierwood Pipe" by Winslow Homer depicting two Zouave members of the 5th New York Volunteer Infantry.

As one of the state’s older towns, St. Anthony was well-prepared for the call-to-arms. On July 12th, 1856, the Falls City Light Guards formed and would march around the town practicing their drills. No conflicts arose during this time, so the militia disbanded. In 1859, a twenty-two-year-old Colonel Elmer E. Ellsworth formed the United States Zouave Cadets in Chicago and traveled across the East Coast and Midwest preforming drills in front of interested crowds. Zouaves, phonetically pronounced as ‘zwav,’ were a French North African light infantry regiment that became a popular model for militias across the world.

Brigadier General George Morgan, 1863Col. Ellsworth introducing Zouaves to the U.S. mixed with the large population of French-Canadian immigrants in St. Anthony was the perfect recipe for a new local militia to form. At 8:00pm on August 3rd, 1860, twenty-two citizens attended a meeting hosted by Col. Richard Chute in his building, the first building of the University of Minnesota, in what is now Chute’s Square. Other notable attendees were George Eastman, one of the first entrepreneurs to utilizes the power of the falls, George Morgan, owner of the first foundry in the town and would later become a brigadier general in the Civil War, and John Gilfillan, a lawyer, congressman, University Regent, and one of the founders of the Minneapolis Public Library system. Hours later, the St. Anthony Zouaves were born. After the militia’s constitution was drafted, guidelines for admission were set, such as a payment of fifty cents, all members must acquire a uniform within thirty days of admission, and a height requirement of at least 5’6". A month later, the militia moved their meeting place to a hall located above a hardware store owned by John S. Pillsbury.

After months of meetings and many fundraising events, the Falls Evening News noted in the December 14th edition of their newspaper that “the Company has been drilling twice a week for the last four months. From the accounts which leak out, some of the maneuvers must look ludicrous to a looker-on. They all go to make up the drill. Look to your laurels, Chicago,” a not-so-subtle jab at Col. Ellsworth’s United States Zouaves Cadets. As the months continued on, a rival militia formed across the river in Minneapolis, with Capt. W.D. Washburn at the helm. Surely this was the first account of the legendary Pillsbury-Washburn rivalry.

A member of the 11th New York Regiment wearing a Zouave uniform, 1861.Wednesday, April 17th, 1861, the day after Lt. Governor Donnelley sent out a request to the militias of Minnesota to form an infantry regiment, the St. Anthony Zouaves held a meeting after they practiced drilling to inform their group of the call-to-arms. Six days later, the company held an election to determine who would lead their group. George Morgan was elected to the position of Captain, John Gilfillan became the 1st Lieutenant, and George Pamroy became 2nd Lieutenant.

While the other militias to report to Fort Snelling arrived in their uniforms, the St. Anthony Zouaves reported in their civilian clothing, black slouch hats, black trousers, and red flannel shirts. It is not known why they did not show up in their uniforms, but it is likely that they were embarrassed to show up wearing their Zouaves colors, as traditional Zouaves uniforms consisted of a fez, an embroidered vest, and red baggy pantaloons. During the following month, Company E, as they were now called, were a popular sight at Fort Snelling when they drilled, and civilian spectators would make the trek to the fort just to see the Zouaves in action. Their popularity grew, and on May 21st, 1861, they were invited to a dinner hosted by the ladies of Nicollet Island where they presented the Company with a handsewn American flag that they would carry throughout the duration of the war.

34-star silk American flag, handmade by women in St. Anthony in May 1861 and given to the 1st MN Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the Civil War.

Of the eighty-nine St. Anthony Zouaves members, thirty-six committed to the original ninety-day deployment. Five were transferred, seven were discharged for disability, twelve were wounded in battle, six were killed, one lost a leg, one died from effects of the war, and four served for the length of the war, holding on tight to that Nicollet Island-made American flag. 

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About Michael Rainville, Jr.

A 6th generation Minneapolitan, Michael Rainville Jr. received his B.A. in History from the University of St. Thomas, and is currently enrolled in their M.A. in Art History and Certificate in Museum Studies programs. Michael is also a historic interpreter and guide at Historic Fort Snelling at Bdote and a lead guide at Mobile Entertainment LLC, giving Segway tours of the Minneapolis riverfront for 7+ years. Contact: mrainvillejr@comcast.net. Click here for an interactive map of Michael's past articles.

Twin Cities Volunteer Spends Three Weeks in Poland at Ukrainian Refugee Center

Article by Becky Fillinger

Alexandra Sasha Sakurets spent three weeks volunteering at a makeshift refugee center in Poland for Ukrainian refugees. Her day jobs in the Twin Cities are ICU nurse at M Health Fairview and owner of a MedSpa - she also has a young family. What compels a person to leave the comfort of her home to help war refugees? We talked to Sasha about this very noble impulse and how you can assist in the ongoing war efforts.

Sasha with medical donations at UM Fairview

Q:  Why was it important to you to provide medical aid to Ukrainian refugees?

A:  When the war began it felt like the bombing was happening here in Minneapolis and not somewhere far on the other side of the globe. I could not sleep; I could not eat… I woke up with the news and fell asleep with the news - at the same time writing frantic messages to my classmates still living in Ukraine. Every cell in my body was telling me to go and help. As a medical professional, I felt like it was my duty.

Q:  Was there a typical day during the time you spent in Poland? What type of medical interventions did you provide? 

A:  We opened a clinic and pharmacy inside a vacant shopping mall which was converted into a refugee center in a matter of one day. The vast majority of our work was to treat and provide medications to the refugees. Many were coming across the border straight from bomb shelters and cellars. These people had missed their vital medications for a week or more, which exacerbated their chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, seizure disorders, kidney disease, schizophrenia and many more. Many refugees had acute illnesses acquired as a result of living in underground bomb shelters and root cellars for weeks without sanitation and in cold winter conditions. We saw many refugees with pneumonia, urinary tract infections and skin lesions. Some had concussions, shrapnel wounds, broken toes and other wounds resulting from running away from bombs. There were only five of us, so we worked 12-hour shifts with 30-minute overlap to cover 24 hours without days off for the first two weeks. A few more team members arrived and we were able to transition to 8-hour shifts - still without days off - but that felt like such a relief.

Sasha and her team

Supplies packed for the flight

World Central Kitchen set up shop in the refugee center – they fed us all our meals – I’m eternally grateful to them. The refugee center held sleeping space for 2000 people on army cots, plus 500 more spaces with blankets on pallets set on the floor. Some nights we ran out of pallets and children slept on their coats and suitcases. We treated 250-350 people daily in the clinic. The refugee center had 5000 refugees come through the center in the first 24 hours, and every 24 hours thereafter for the time I was there. From the U.S., we brought large amounts of over the counter medications. Other medical supply donations were coming into the refugee center daily. Part of our work was to sort through the donated medical supplies and separate the items which we needed at our clinic from the items which were needed on the frontlines and in hospitals in Ukraine.

Food provided by World Central Kitchen

Refugee receiving medical care

Resting in a refugee center

Q:  What group organized your volunteer time in Poland?

A:  A group of five Americans who were born in the former USSR formed the first team of an organization called Global Disaster Relief Team (GDRT). Only one of us spoke fluent Ukrainian, mine is marginal, the other three team members spoke only English and Russian. My involvement with the group came together very quickly. At times, it was very frantic! I flew to New York where my best friend Rita from childhood met me. I had to transfer airports in New York for my flight to Germany. We had planned to go to lunch because I had a good four hours between flights. When Rita picked me up, she anxiously tried to talk me out of going. I convinced her that I had to do this for myself and for Ukraine. I was dropped off at JFK where I met four complete strangers. A month later we were family.

Q:  You have a young family here in Minnesota. What did you tell them about why you were going to assist refugees?

A:  I told them that sometimes in life we have to do things out of the most irrational state of mind. It is a voice of our higher conscious self and if we do not listen, we cannot continue to our next level of spiritual development. They were worried and disappointed that they had to spend spring break at home. That kind of a reaction is normal for teenagers.  

Q:  You were born in Zhitomir, Ukraine. When and how did you emigrate to the U.S.?

A:  My parents, grandmother, older sister, our dog and I came to Minnesota in 1989. After living in Europe for about six months while awaiting the interview at the U.S. Embassy in Rome, we received the status of political refugees for being persecuted for our religious beliefs as Jews. About two million Jews left the Soviet Union during the 80s and 90s. We were welcomed by the Jewish community of the Twin Cities. The Jewish Federation rented our apartment for us and furnished it with used furniture. They assigned to us a host family - Phyllis and Buddy Harris - who welcomed us to their congregation and taught us Jewish customs. Phyllis threw my very first birthday party at a bowling alley when I turned 13; I can still remember how happy I was that day. She would pick me up on her day off to run errands with her and go to lunch, I loved that so very much. I remember the smell of leather in her brand-new Cadillac and thought someday when I grow up, I will be a volunteer like Phyllis. We also had two English tutor volunteers who came to our home to teach my parents English. I want to express my deepest gratitude for everyone who helped us to make Minnesota our new home.

Vest depicting what languages the volunteer speaks.

Q:  Talk to us about languages in your life. Russian was your first language. How was the Ukrainian language treated in your schools? Were you able to communicate effectively with the refugees? 

A:  In the central part of Ukraine where I was born, I heard mostly Russian growing up. All street names, signs, announcements in public transportation were in Russian. In my school all subjects were taught in Russian, we had English three times per week starting in 1st grade and Ukrainian was taught as a third language. Because I was Jewish, I and other Jewish classmates did not study Ukrainian because of our nationality. Our nationality was written in the school profile so that all teachers would know who was Jewish in the classroom. I am not exactly sure why in the 80s Jewish children did not study Ukrainian because my parents both read and spoke Ukrainian well, my Jewish grandparents learned Yiddish as their first language at home, Ukrainian as their second language and Russian as their third. The Russians tried to wipe out all traces of Ukrainians – including our language. The spoken Ukrainian language was treated with a negative connotation. Outside of schools, if you printed a book in Ukrainian, you could be imprisoned. You can see how within just a few generations under Soviet rule Ukrainian language in central Ukraine was eradicated almost completely.  

Q:  Was your employer here in the Twin Cities receptive to your desire to spend three weeks providing medical assistance abroad? 

A:  Since graduating from the School of Nursing at the University of Minnesota I have worked at the M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Medical Center. The hospital went through a few name changes but the essence stayed the same - to provide state of the art, evidence-based medical care while conducting research which guides medical protocols. After 25 years of working at M Health Fairview, I call it my home and my co-workers my family. After reaching out to my management, it took 24 hours to get a leave of absence from HR. I received the tightest hugs from all my coworkers when I stopped in a day before my flight to Poland. I also own a MedSpa called Art of Eternal Beauty in NE Minneapolis. My clients were understanding with having to reschedule their Botox appointments for when I returned. All of my loyal customers patiently waited for me to return from Poland for their treatments. My clients and supply reps donated funds, clothes, toys and household goods for the refugee families who were staying at our house. I still have refugees living with my family. Please note that all tips at my MedSpa are donated to organizations which directly go to needs of Ukrainians. I am so blessed to work with such amazing people!

Medical supplies packed in Minnesota

Q:  Have you been involved in other efforts to assist the Ukrainians in their invasion by Russia?  

A:  When I returned, my coworkers began to gather medical supplies and equipment which the hospital no longer needed. A Minnesota nonprofit called MATTER donated 10 pallets of medical supplies for us as well. So far between M Health, Hennepin Health and MATTER, we have collected 20 pallets (traveling by sea) worth of supplies, as well as about 100 large duffels (traveling by air) and delivered directly to Ukrainian hospitals. All the sorting is done in our “domivka” that is what we call our Ukrainian American Community Center. We raise funds for the Ukrainian non-profit Stand With Ukraine Minnesota. The funds are used to purchase the items that we cannot get for free via donations. We purchased a number of ambulances, tourniquets, blood clotting powders and wound vacuums - these items are much needed in a time of war.

My husband organized a community of supporters who were born in Belarus now living in the U.S. called Belarussian Americans. The organization was founded in 2020 to help children of Belarussian parents to learn Belarussian – a number of schools teaching Belarussian language opened that year. Once the Russian invasion of my beloved Ukraine began, a number of young men from Belarus came to Ukraine to fight alongside the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Soon there were enough to form their own battalion called Kastys Kalinovky. My husband, Pavel, along with other Belarussians living in the U.S. began to raise funds to supply the Kalinovsky battalion fighters with bullet-proof plate carriers, boots and army fatigues. Pavel has personally delivered to the battalion three times since the war began. 

Q:  How may our readers assist your efforts?

A:  I am blessed to be a part of a community who helps with sorting and packing medical supplies. When the war began the outpouring of support was ample. Now that Ukraine is not in the news on every channel at all hours of the day, the world went on to live their normal lives. But Ukrainians’ lives are not back to any sense of normalcy. My closest supporters who are in it for the long haul are Mykola Sarazhynskyy, Dr Tanya Melnik, Oksana Gren and Natalia Panchuk. They are the steady force behind the engine of our supply operation. There are many ways for your readers to help:

- Would you like to sort medical supplies with us? Message me on Instagram @artofeternalbeauty.

- Stand With Ukraine Minnesota needs donations and help with ongoing events. 

- Eternal Beauty MedSpa donates all tips to Stand With Ukraine MN and Belarusian Americans.

- Protez Foundation helps supply free prosthetic limbs to Ukrainian children, soldiers and civilians who have lost limbs during the war.

- Attend the Visit with Ukrainian Heroes Receiving Prosthetic Care in MN event, August 7th at the Ukrainian American Community Center, 301 Main Street. 

Mill City Times Endorses Don Samuels for Congress

When the voters of the 5th Congressional District first elected Ilhan Omar, Donald Trump was well into his presidential term. His very first executive action was the Muslim Ban, and so the election of Ilhan Omar – a Somali refugee and one-term state representative – was a meaningful assertion of our values. Three and a half years later, and well into the first half of Joe Biden’s presidency, it’s time to reassert our values once again. This is why we are endorsing former north Minneapolis Council Member Don Samuels to serve as our next US Representative. 
 
With Democrats controlling the House by a narrow margin, and the Senate by an even more narrow margin, we find it distressing that Ilhan Omar votes so often with her most extreme counterparts in the Republican party and against President Biden’s agenda. From voting against the President's Infrastructure Bill, to voting against crucial bills to support Ukraine in its battle against Russian invasion, to voting against securing our Capital after the Jan 6 Insurrection, Ilhan Omar is increasingly out of step with other Democrats and the majority of her constituents. With democracy imperiled abroad and at home, we need Congressional representation that will collaborate with other Democrats to enact legislation in an increasingly extremist political environment.
 
In contrast to the approach taken by our current representative, Don Samuels led our city through a polarizing debate about whether we would eliminate our police department by arguing instead for a “Both / And” approach. We need to transform policing, he argued, but we also need police. If we are to diffuse the dangerous political moment nationally, we need Samuels’ “Both / And” approach to leadership.
 
Don Samuels has a credible record we trust to provide innovative, practical solutions that will bridge divides. Samuels came to this country as an immigrant from Jamaica with a scholarship to Pratt Institute of Design and very little else. He grew up in an impoverished neighborhood, and made a commitment to continue to live in an impoverished community wherever he found himself. Because of this, Samuels does not speak for  communities he has little connection to: his understanding of the issues remains nuanced and authentic, and he knows what can make a dramatic difference versus what is merely drama.
 
Samuels began his career as a toy inventor, then led the research and design departments of some of the biggest toy companies in the market, and finally he opened his own small design firm. In a district where 80% of us broadly agree, we should select our representative based on who will deliver results. When the City of Minneapolis received $118 million in federal dollars during the 2008 recession, Samuels worked with his city council colleagues to bring $100 million to North Minneapolis. More recently, inspired by the tragic killing of Philando Castille (and as an offshoot of his micro-grant non-profit) he launched Lights On, a first-of-its-kind program that transforms a broken tail light traffic stop into an opportunity for police officers to render aid in the form of vouchers. In contrast, our current Congressional representative has had little success moving bills into law, and can only claim bringing in $17 million in earmark money already set aside for our district, while voting against several hundred million that will come via the bipartisan infrastructure bill.
 
As one of the safest Democratic seats in the country, August 9th is the primary vote that will – in the absence of some extraordinary intervening event – decide the entire election for Minnesota’s 5th District Congressional seat. We encourage our readers to vote for Don Samuels and ensure it is his name that appears on the November ballot. Samuels is someone who will think beyond the easy platitudes, who will work hard to bring federal resources to our region and appeal to much needed voters in neighboring districts, and who will negotiate across differences to heal our fractured nation. A vote for Don Samuels is not only a vote for better representation, it is a vote for less divisive and more productive politics.

8/1/07: The 35W Bridge Collapse

Article by Michael Rainville, Jr.

August 1st, 2007, 5:30pm. A twelve-year-old Michael, along with his family and friends, just sat down to enjoy their last meal at the original location of Totino's Italian Kitchen at 523 Central Avenue NE before the popular restaurant moved to Mounds View. I ordered the usual, mostaccioli with a meatball and a pizza for the table to share, the best pizza I've ever had, I might add. We were reminiscing about the many good memories that have taken place here at the restaurant over the last fifty-six years, from family holiday parties to picking up a couple meatball subs on the way home from work. 

Shortly after we began eating our main course, we noticed emergency vehicles from Columbia Heights, then Forest Lake, then Hudson, Wisconsin hauling it down Central Avenue. We were clueless as to what was going on, but it was obvious something very bad had happened. We asked our waiter if they heard anything, and they said a bridge collapsed into the Mississippi River but didn't know which one. We all thought it was the Stone Arch Bridge, the second oldest continuously used bridge over the entire Mississippi, but word quickly spread that it was the I-35W Bridge.

Photo courtesy of MNHS

Photo of the collapse on the East bank, courtesy of MNHS

I personally took this photo on the East bank near Metal-Matic

The original Interstate 35 West Bridge was completed in 1967, the same year the Silver Bridge in Ohio collapsed and killed forty-six people. At the time, 35W reached South Minneapolis with the rest of its route in the city to be completed in the next ten years. The main use of the new bridge, at first, was as a detour for the 10th Avenue Bridge as the city was debating what to do with it. In 1968, 35W reached the I-94 Commons, and in 1973, the interstate was completed up to the point where I-335 was supposed to connect, between East Hennepin and Broadway, but local neighborhood leaders nixed that plan. Now that the 35W route through Minneapolis was nearing completion, the bridge over the Mississippi River was getting more use. It was built to carry 66,000 vehicles per day, and by 2004, 141,000 vehicles were crossing the bridge each day.

The continuous deck truss bridge was unfortunately designed in a way that if a single portion of the bridge failed, the entire bridge would fail, and that’s exactly what happened on August 1st, 2007, at 6:05pm. At the time, the bridge was in the middle of its third renovation, with previous renovations expanding the total number of lanes from four to eight and adding another 13% of dead weight to the overall structure. During this third renovation in 2007, sand and gravels piles were placed on the bridge deck adding tons of extra weight, and on top of that, it was the middle of rush hour with an estimated 100 vehicles on the bridge at the time it collapsed. At 6:05pm, one of the gusset plates, which holds the metal truss beams together, folded in half like a piece of paper as they were half as thick as necessary for the structure, and the entire bridge fell straight down into the Mississippi River.

One of the gusset plates, courtesy of MNHS

August 1st, 2007, 6:55pm. We arrived back home from Totino’s and my father and I, along with a neighbor, decided to ride our bicycles to the middle of the Stone Arch Bridge to witness the scene. There were rumblings that it could have been a terrorist attack, so local authorities ushered everyone off the bridge. We made our way to Second Street SE and followed the crowd. Police tape stopped the crowd at Eight Avenue SE, so we stopped for a bit and continued to the overpass bridge on University Avenue before making our way to the Third Avenue Bridge and back home. A day we will never forget.

Heroic efforts by civilians and off-duty and on duty first responders saved 144 people from the wreckage, and sadly, thirteen people passed away. One of the many stories of heroism from that evening involved a school bus transporting fifty-two children. As the bus was teetering on a section of the bridge, a staff member on board, Jeremy Hernandez, made sure every child safely exited the bus through the back door and off the bridge. That very door is currently on display at the Minnesota History Center in Saint Paul in a small section dedicated to the history of the bridge collapse.

The school bus door with the signatures of those who were inside the bus, courtesy of MNHS

A memorial for the victims and survivors of the collapse is located along West River Parkway, across from Gold Medal Park, and it features thirteen pillars with the names of the victims on them and a wall behind the pillars listing the survivors of the catastrophic event.

The 35W Memorial, courtesy of kmfiswriting.com

Construction of the new and current 35W Bridge, also known as the Saint Anthony Falls Bridge, began on December 17th, 2007, and was complete on September 18th, 2008, three months ahead of schedule. This $234 million bridge was equipped with a state-of-the-art de-icing system, 323 sensors that monitor the condition of the bridge, and LED lights that illuminate the deck and undercarriage of the bridge. The lights underneath even change colors for special occasions: purple for the anniversary of Prince’s death, rainbow for Pride, red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July, green for Eid al-Fitr, orange for Halloween, and purple and gold when the Vikings finally win the Super Bowl…

The current bridge at night, courtesy of MnDOT

Fifteen years ago, a tragic catastrophe happened in our city of Minneapolis. The community came together, and everyday citizens became heroes. I encourage you all to pay a visit to the I-35W Bridge Memorial this month and reflect. Find those memories of where you were when you first found out, think of those who were courageous enough to risk it all to save the people who were on the bridge that day, and remember those who perished on August 1st, 2007. 

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About Michael Rainville, Jr.

A 6th generation Minneapolitan, Michael Rainville Jr. received his B.A. in History and M.A. in Art History and Museum Studies from the University of St. Thomas. Michael is also a historic interpreter and guide at Historic Fort Snelling at Bdote and the Minnesota History Center. Additionally, he has been a lead guide at Mobile Entertainment LLC, giving Segway tours of the Minneapolis riverfront for 10+ years.

Contact: mrainvillejr@comcast.net. Click here for an interactive map of Michael's past articles.

July 30 at the Mill City Farmers Market

I was so happy to find fresh celery at the Dawn2Dusk stand. It is sweet and tender and fantastic in veggie smoothies.

New broth varieties from Superior Provisions: Mushroom and Vegetable.

Welcome to our newest neighbors - Forte on the Park apartments, recently opened at 1125 S 2nd Street.