New Art Exhibit - Colorful Expressions - Opens at The Mill Yard, August 11

 

Colorful Expressions

Opening Reception Sunday, August 11, 4:00 - 6:00PM

Stonebridge Lofts, 1120 S 2nd Street

Join the The Mill Yard in welcoming these artists to The Mill Yard, purchasing original art, meeting neighbors, and enjoying free beverages. Victor Hugo food truck will be on site to purchase food.

The Mill City. Residents celebrate our area’s industrial heritage of the mighty Mississippi River and the mills. Today, what we see are the most recognizable Minneapolis landmarks. However, this is only part of the story. Rail lines were key to Minneapolis’ growth, and were particularly integral to the Mill District, bringing in wheat and timber and shipping out flour and lumber. We also honor the history of the mills, the reason for the rail yard’s existence. The Mill Yard aims to be both a gathering place for art and artists and a conduit by which art can be shared with and disseminated into the wider community. 

Artists featured at this show:

A View From the Sculpture GardenMichael Birawer has brought a new look to the face of urban neighborhoods through his unique style of painting. A combination of graffiti, cartoon, illustration and heavy textures, his paintings have received praise from both art critics and patrons, who describe his work as "one of the best examples of the contemporary revival of urban art.” More recently, Michael has introduced his take on nature art. Combining bright and bold colors, he guides his brush with the same passion and style as his "architectural" work. 

Sue Mooney's artistic journey is a testament to the potent intersection of passion and art. Sue worked as an advocate for developmentally disabled clients and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. Her innate interest in art eventually led her to make a remarkable decision—to leave behind her job and former life and embark on a journey in her camper van to immerse herself in the art circuit. This bold commitment resulted in success and Sue began participating in prestigious shows across the country receiving accolades for her expressive use of color. Notably self-taught, she wields her palette knife to craft pieces that exude her trademark boldness and vibrancy. She continues to push the boundaries of her creativity and invites others to join her on this unfolding journey, where the mesmerizing allure of colors serves as a balm for the soul.

.

Snowy AsterLisa Roy is a fine art photographer based in Minneapolis. She captures compelling landscapes and city scenes that showcase the beauty of what surrounds us. With a talent for composition, she turns everyday scenes into captivating reflections of natural and man-made wonders.

One Pear IAndrew Sjodin is a classically trained painter and draftsman working in the realist tradition. His work combines an academic drawing foundation with an impressionistic approach to seeing and interpreting color. Sjodin creates still life and figurative pieces working primarily in oils. Much of his work is peaceful and quiet. His compositions are mindful, calling the viewer to slow down and dwell within the work and themself. Sjodin holds a B.A. in Philosophy from St. John’s University, Collegeville, MN and is a graduate of The Atelier Studio Program of Fine Arts, Minneapolis. www.sjodinfineart.com

DishIsaac Theobald is a talented glass artist, working at Foci – The Minnesota Center for Glass Art. Isaac continually expands his experience blowing glass, creating functional and creative pieces. He explores and perfects the possibilities of manipulating molten glass. His talent for creative designs, use of color, forming shape and perfecting detail results in exquisitely beautiful and unique pieces. IsaacTheobaldGlass@gmail.com

Contact and socials: TheMillYard.Stonebridge@gmail.com, Website, Facebook, Instagram

Small Business Spotlight: Fitchn

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Joe Clark and Hailie Hoschka, owners of Fitchn, 1024 Washington Avenue S

The Mill District has a new small business serving fuel-good fare to the community. We spoke to Hailie Hoschka, co-owner, about the premise of Fitchn and their signature items. Visit the healthy, fast casual restaurant at 1024 Washington Avenue S, on the ground floor of Bridgewater Lofts, open everyday from 11 am – 8 pm.

The Detox juice - celery, spinach, cucumber, apple and lemonQ:  Congratulations on your new business. Please tell us the premise of Fitchn.

A:  Thank you! Fitchn brings together healthy fare in a relaxed, modern kitchen. My partner, Joe Clark, and I wanted to bring a healthy food option to the Mill District. Through carefully sourced ingredients and a welcoming neighborhood spirit, we make nourishing food an easy reach for all.

Q:  For the meals I select, do I choose a protein, carb and veggie? How are the meals priced?

A:  We have a number of thoughtfully crafted, signature menu items that guests can choose from, in addition to build your own options. Our menu includes Salads, Pita Sandwiches, Grain Bowls, Fresh Juices, and House Smoothies. Menu items vary in price based on the ingredients chosen.

Q:  Will the meal options change seasonally?

A:  We will most likely be featuring a few different menu options and ingredients seasonally. More information to come!

Q:  We’re curious. Are there dessert options? Breakfast options?

A:  As of now we do not have dessert or breakfast on our menu. However, guests will be able to order our juices and smoothies at any time and they would make for a great breakfast option! They are packed with nutritious, flavorful ingredients to help fuel your body.

Q:  How may we stay up to date with Fitchn news?

A:  Several ways - Make sure to follow us  to keep up with all things Fitchn! We’re on Facebook and Instagram and of course, our website is great resource for information. Come visit us too!

Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival Returns August 10-11

The festival creates a free, family-friendly event down Nicollet Avenue from 6th to 11th Street.

The 6th annual Downtown Mpls Street Art Festival will take place Saturday and Sunday, August 10-11 from 10am-6pm on Nicollet in downtown Minneapolis.

.

The festival features the live creation of chalk and spray paint artworks from 27 world-renowned, international artists, representing 6 states and multiple countries. The festival will also feature a Saturday afternoon concert series with performances by Heart & Soul Drum Academy, zAmya Theater, and “Hip-Hop 4 The Soul”, food trucks, a community mandala, free make-and-take arts activities for all ages and more. Discover more at www.mplsstreetartfestival.com

.

In addition, festival goers will have the opportunity to shop local at the Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair curated by Jackalope Arts. The market will run from 7th Street to 11th Street and bring together over 100 local, hand-selected artisans to the festival streetways. Shoppers can expect to find trendsetting indie goods including original fashion and jewelry design, paper goods, innovative home décor and housewares, art, photography plus much more.

.

"The Downtown Minneapolis Street Art Festival is a unique city event that brings families, artists and communities together to celebrate art” said Adam Duininck, president & ceo of the mpls downtown council & Mpls Downtown Improvement District. “Nothing brings people together like art, music, retail shopping, and community building downtown. We are so excited to welcome families and artists from around the world to showcase their talents in the heart of our downtown.”

.

This year’s schedule of events includes:

.

Saturday, August 10

• Nicollet Chalk Art Festival
• 3D Chalk Art Installation at IDS
• Live Spray Painting on Nicollet
• Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair curated by Jackalope Arts
• Street Eats (food trucks and more) on Nicollet
• Community Mandala
• Streetcorner Letterpress
• WOW: Mobile Metal Lab
• Hennepin County Mobile Bike Library
• Saturday-Only Stage Performances
  • Heart and Soul Drum Academy
  • zAmya Theater
  • “Hip-Hop 4 The Soul” various acts curated by Lewiee Blaze

Sunday, August 11

• Nicollet Chalk Art Festival
• 3D Chalk Art Installation at IDS
• Live Spray Painting on Nicollet
• Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair curated by Jackalope Arts
• Street Eats (food trucks and more) on Nicollet
• Community Mandala
• Streetcorner Letterpress
• Pedal to the Metal: Travelling Foundry
• Hennepin County Mobile Bike Library
• Street Show performances on Nicollet

The Downtown Mpls Street Art Festival is organized by the Mpls Downtown Improvement District (DID) with support from our premier hospitality partners Millennium Hotel Minneapolis and Rand Tower Hotel.

Reserve Your Spot for the September 8 Mill City Farmers Market Harvest Social

Mill City Farmers Market Harvest Social

Sunday, September 8, 5 – 7:30 pm

Mill City Museum, 704 2nd Street S

.

Gather in the historic Mill City Museum Courtyard for a social hour featuring craft cocktails and music by world-renowned jazz singer Lila Ammons, followed by a market-to-table dinner highlighting yesterday's farm-fresh ingredients. The live auction and fund-a-need support the Next Stage Grant Program for local, sustainable farmers and food makers.

Bring your friends or make new ones over a scrumptious dinner that celebrates our farmer's market community. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with neighbors and stakeholders who are passionate about our community, health, and the environment.

This annual event funds MCFM's core mission and programming, including educational cooking demonstrations, food access and produce donations and the market’s Next Stage Grant programming. This year’s dinner will be prepared by renowned local Chef Nettie Colón using ingredients sourced from Mill City Farmers Market vendors.

.

Unable to attend? Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to support their work. Information and tickets. Space is limited, so please RSVP by August 16!

Theater, Celebrations, Music and Fireworks at Water Works!

The Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board invites you to enjoy a variety of events coming up in Water Works Park.

"Calypso," a play with music inspired by Homer's "The Odyssey."

The story follows the lonely Calypso, trapped on an island with only the god Hermes as an occasional visitor. When Odysseus washes ashore, she experiences companionship for the first time and finds she cannot go back to living alone. "Calypso" take a minor character from a classic story and gives her a full-fledged narrative, spinning it into a tale about first love and the myths which we choose to remember. 

"Calypso" runs 80 minutes with no intermission. Performances are free. 

"Calypso" at Water Works at Mill Ruins Park

Saturday, July 20, 7 pm
Sunday, July 21,  2 pm
Friday, July 26, 7 pm

Questions? Email areynolds@minneapolisparks.org.

Every Sunday from 10-11 am - free yoga in Water Works Park hosted by Minneapolis Bouldering Project. Whether you're a newbie or seasoned yogi, unwind and stretch in the fresh air. Don't miss out on a perfect way to start your Sunday.  Sundays thru September 29, 10-11 am

Today, July 19 from 5-10 pm, Owamni by the Sioux Chef is celebrating their third anniversary! Come celebrate by attending the free general admission festivities in Water Works Park including drummers, an Indigenous pop-up market, Wakpa food and beverages for purchase and more! For a more immersive experience, there is a Hahawakpa ticked event on the terrace. This incudes chef food and beverage stations, a welcome address from chef Sean Sherman, Indigenous plant tours, and swag bags.

Friday, July 19, 5-10 pm

---

Music in the Park: Barb Ryman

Barb Ryman, a natural storyteller with a crystalline voice and skillfully played guitar, delivers a rich mosaic of contemporary folk music, drawing from Celtic balladry, early rock, and new-age folk. Her music, which has received airplay across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, is known for its ability to heal and inspire, seamlessly integrating her background as a speech-language pathologist and counselor.

Monday, July 22, 7 pm

---

The Target Spots

Enjoy an uplifting performance on the Water Works steps by The Target Spots! This volunteer choir, comprised of talented members from Target Corporation, performs to spread joy and cheer to the community. Don't miss out on this heartwarming musical experience!

Thursday, July 25, 7 pm

---

Music in the Park: Jimmy Gefroh

To close out our July music series, local musician Jimmy Gefroh will be sharing his upbeat and contemporary music on the Water Works. 

Monday, July 29, 7 pm

Minneapolis Aquatennial Celebration and Fireworks!

The Aquatennial Fireworks event promises a fun-filled evening along the Mississippi Riverfront at West River Parkway. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy a variety of activities and amenities. You can look forward to a bustling kid-zone, skateboarding, great live music, a diverse selection of food trucks and the walk-up bar at Owamni, and shopping opportunities with local small businesses. It's an evening not to be missed!

Saturday, July 27, 6-10 pm

Source Song Festival Celebrates 11th Season With August 5-9 Recitals at Westminster and Other Events

Source Song Festival (“Source”) has announced its 11th Festival Season – a milestone in the organization’s history – with a special week of recitals, masterclasses and lectures open to the public.

From August 5-9, 2024, Westminster Hall in downtown Minneapolis’ Westminster Presbyterian Church will be alive with the sounds 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. These impressive musicians and composers have trained at esteemed institutions including New England Conservatory and the Manhattan School of Music, among many others. Their rehearsal and study begins this month and will culminate in a public recital during the Festival.

Season 11 will also welcome nationally renowned guest musicians, composers, and clinicians to present daytime educational lectures and masterclasses for the MNSong and MNDuo participants. Most notable is the new scholarship program MNScholar, which features a daily 1 p.m. 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 SCHEDULE

Monday, August 5: The OpenSource Recital celebrates a Minnesota premiere by local artist Rudolfo Nieto and the collaborative efforts of Sparks and Wiry Cries, recipient of the Paul Sperry American Song Initiative Award. Other performers and composers include Paul Sperry, Clara Osowski, Erika Switzer and Stephen Swanson.

Tuesday, August 6: Pianist Myra Huang, head of the Lindemann Young Artist Development program at the Metropolitan Opera, will lead all eight duos through a masterclass focused on the performance of traditional song and what it means to collaborate.

Wednesday, August 7: “MnNice” - The MNSong Showcase will feature Minnesota-based performers presenting original music by MNSong composers, along with performers of the MNDuo program sharing songs by Minnesota composers.

Thursday, August 8: The Guest Artist Recital presents soprano Ana María Martínez and Myra Huang, performing an exclusively Spanish-language song program.

Friday, August 9: The Festival closes with the MNDuo Showcase, recapping their week of performance practice and study throughout the week.

-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  

Since 2013, Source Song Festival has cultivated excellence in the art song genre for artists and audiences from every background. Source contributes to the success of Minnesota’s vibrant music scene through its impactful contributions to the study, performance and championing of new art song. Named by the Star Tribune as the “second best thing in classical music in the 2010s,” Source is a service for artists and an accessible public arts experience.

Sing Play Learn with MacPhail® Presents Kidsfest! September 7th

September 7 Kidsfest Features The Jolly Pops

Mark you calendar and plan to join Sing, Play, Learn for a fun-filled musical morning on September 7th. There will be lots to see and do at KidsFest at MacPhail Center for Music! The Jolly Pops featuring Billy Hartong (guitar/vocals), MacPhail faculty Eric Shee (drums/vocals), MacPhail faculty Justin Hartke (bass/vocals), Bacon the Pig, and Chompy the Alligator, will play two rockin’ concerts in Antonello Hall.

Concerts are at 10:15am and 11:15am. Between concerts, kids and their grown-ups can experience a sample class, explore instruments, make a craft, have a snack, and more! Come sing, play, and learn!

A Dialogue with Rick Dildine, New Artistic Director at Children’s Theatre Company

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided 

Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) has named Rick Dildine as their new Artistic Director. Dildine assumed the post on July 1 - he replaces Peter C. Brosius after 27 years leading the organization. We talked to Dildine about what drew him to CTC, the boundary pushing and important work produced by CTC, and how you as adult members of our community can support our nationally-recognized, locally treasured theater.

Rick Dildine Photo: Wesley LawQ:  What was it that appealed to you to become Artistic Director of the Children’s Theatre Company? 

A:  CTC is one of the country’s iconic theaters with a reputation for excellence and having a tremendous impact on the lives of young people. The repertoire is rigorous, adventurous, and imaginative. As an artist, I give great value to young people and their thoughts and contributions. CTC has made a valuable space that respects the points of view of young people. For some time, I’ve felt like there is not a nobler task than creating something for young people. 

Q:  You’re brand new to the position, but do you have any short-term and long-term goals for the theater? 

A:  Long-term goals will reveal themselves more once I get on the ground and listen and learn. But our audiences and staff can count on a continued commitment to new, boundary pushing, rigorous work for young people. It’s that level of work that has made CTC the industry leader in programming for multi-generational audiences. Peter Brosius has done a remarkable job interpreting the mission, and it’s my hope we can take that farther and find new ways to create community within the theater.

Q:  Are there any specific themes or types of productions you hope to showcase? 

A:  What drew me to the repertoire is the diversity of content, style, and themes. CTC respects that young people and their families are always growing, maturing, and evolving. The programming reflects that. One of the leaders of regional theatre movement, Zelda Fichandler, always said, “The programming is our destiny.” It is the programming that will allow us to achieve our vision of unleashing the power of curiosity, empathy, and imagination. 

Q:  How will you go about balancing educational and entertaining elements in CTC productions? 

A:  I think there’s a distinct difference between art and entertainment. Art focuses us while entertainment distracts us. Both are of great value for us as humans. Sometimes we need to focus on a theme or concept, and it’s through artistic expression that that focus is possible. And sometimes we need to be distracted from the world and be entertained. Both are good for the soul.

Q:  Would you like to offer workshops, educational sessions, or collaborations with local schools? How might it happen?  

A:  We do offer workshops. CTC has partnerships with 11 metro area schools providing after school and in school programming. We are currently in a long-term partnership with Bethune Arts Elementary, providing year-long residencies for every grade level, summer camp programing and family tenement activities. CTC offers workshop options for homeschool families that wish to extend their field trip experience.  Schools interested in booking a workshop or residency can call the education office to discuss options.

Q:  How may grandparents, parents and community members be involved with the Children's Theater? 

A:  Grandparents, parents, and community members can nurture an appreciation and love of theatre for the children in their lives by taking them to see shows, by enrolling them in educational classes and camps, by supporting them in auditioning and performing in productions if they have interest, and by continuing to encourage them as they engage with the artform in whichever capacity they choose. Adults can also support CTC by being a season subscriber, by becoming donors, and by sharing information about the theatre, the productions, and the educational offerings with their communities. 

Q:  Let's get to know you. You've got a free weekend - how will you spend it?  

A:  My husband and I love to travel and explore. He works within the museum industry, so we find ourselves visiting museums of all types. My weekends are about relaxing, spending time with family and friends, reading in a good coffee shop, and going to the movies. 

Q:  What are your hobbies?

A:  I am fortunate that my hobby of theatre became my career. But when I’m not making theatre, I exercise, read, and travel. I’m almost always planning my next trip!

Rick on the set of A Christmas Carol

Shopping Basket from July 13 Mill City Farmers Market, New Items to Check Out

Above, our shopping basket from the July 13 Mill City Farmers Market. Just in time for a steamy weekend - insanely delicious cherry ice cream from Sonny's. Dervish Mazza added a Summer Corn Succotash to their offerings. Mokum carrots from Burning River Farm and blueberries from Mary Dirty Face Farm arrived last week. 

We're coming into peak summer produce (that happened fast!). It won't be long before watermelon and sweet corn appear.

One of the many new offerings at the MCFM this year is Squash Pepita Sourdough bread from Jeff Nistler. I really like this one - the crust doesn't get rock hard, so it's easy to slice throughout the week. 

Below, I tried the new Maple Pancake Mix from Horner's Corner. This is a collaboration with Baker’s Field Flour & Bread - combining their Pancake and Waffle Mix with Horner's maple sugar. Per Steve Horner, new varities are in the works.

So many fruits, jams, meats and other items available at the MCFM to serve with your waffles/pancakes (hopefully yours look better than mine - I've never been able to produce a perfectly square Belgium waffle without batter oozing out the sides of the waffle maker...but they are tasty all the same). I love the Skyr from Shepherd's Way - it's only available during certain months, so enjoy it while you can! Don't forget Horner's maple syrup and maple cream, along with Ames Farm honey and chocolate spread from Chocolate San Jose Minneapolis.

July 14 Sister Cities Day Event Celebrate Minneapolis’ International Connections

The July 14 festivities are open to the public and will include dancing, music, ice cream, and a 10th anniversary celebration with Bosaso, Somalia

The annual Sister Cities Day celebration – featuring an afternoon of entertainment to honor the City of Minneapolis’ international connections – will take place on Sunday, July 14, from 12:30-5pm, at Nicollet Island Pavilion. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. The afternoon festivities will include musicians and performers representing nine of Minneapolis’ 12 sister cities, as well as informational displays and crafts for people of all ages. In addition, complimentary make-your-own ice cream sundaes and other refreshments will be available while supplies last. This is a rain or shine event.

This year’s celebration will be highlighted by the recognition of the 10th anniversary of Minneapolis’ sister city relationship with Bosaso, Somalia. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey will be on hand to mark the special occasion. 

“Sister Cities are about fostering citizen-to-citizen diplomacy, and Minneapolis is blessed to have 12 strong relationships with peer cities from around the world,” said Meet Minneapolis President and CEO Melvin Tennant. “This Sunday’s event will offer a unique opportunity for our community to experience local cultural talent representing many of our global connections.”  

Performances* include: 

12:30 pm  Harisen Daiko (Ibaraki City, Japan) 

12:50 pm  Hong De Wu Guan Lion Dance (Harbin, China) 

  1:00 pm  Mexico Lindo Ballet Folklorico (Cuernavaca, Mexico) 

  1:30 pm  Songs of Hope (International Children’s Performing Arts Group) 

  2:00 pm  Official remarks to recognize the 10th anniversary of Minneapolis’ Sister City relationship with Bosaso, Somalia; followed by a ceremonial cake-cutting  

  2:10 pm  Hiddosoor (Bosaso, Somalia) 

  2:40 pm  Rafiki USA (Eldoret, Kenya) 

  3:00 pm  Amir ElSaffar and Hamid Alsaadi (Najaf, Iraq) 

  3:30 pm   Raices de Chile (Santiago, Chile) 

  4:00 pm  Said Abdelli (Tours, France) 

  4:30 pm  Tj 2 + 2 (Tjärnblom duo) - Cheryl Paschke, nyckelharpa and Joe Alfano, guitar & mandolin; plus Swedish dancers Adi & Christina Press (Uppsala, Sweden)

.

*Performance times subject to change. 

This event is sponsored by Meet Minneapolis in partnership with its sister city organizations. Meet Minneapolis supports these relationships on behalf of the City of Minneapolis. The Minneapolis Sister Cities program was established in 1961 with the signing of the first Sister City agreement between Minneapolis and Santiago, Chile. Today, it includes Winnipeg, Canada; Santiago, Chile; Harbin, China; Kuopio, Finland; Tours, France; Najaf, Iraq; Ibaraki City, Japan; Eldoret, Kenya; Cuernavaca, Mexico; Novosibirsk, Russia; Bosaso, Somalia; and Uppsala, Sweden.

American School of Storytelling Theater Announces Peña Flamenca: La Corrida de Toros by Flamenco X

Don't miss your chance to experience the passion of Latin artistry with Flamenco X! Performances are July 24, August 11 & 21 and September 8

.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms and passionate artistry of local and international artists with Peña Flamenca: La Corrida de Toros, presented by Flamenco X. This dynamic performance series promises an unforgettable evening of music and dance, featuring talented musicians, captivating dancers, and soulful singers. It's a variety show! Plan on an exhilarating evening of cultural immersion and artistic expression, complete with circus performers and various styles of Latin dance, including Bachata and Flamenco!

.

Performances are set for July 24, August 11 and September 8 - 6pm each night - at the American School of Storytelling Theater, 1762 Hennepin Avenue S. There is also an August 21 performance at the Lake Harriet Bandshell.

.

From fiery footwork to soul-stirring melodies, each act in Peña Flamenca: La Corrida de Toros showcases the intensity and emotion that define Latin culture. Audiences will experience a journey through the art of flamenco, circus and Bachata witnessing firsthand the magic and allure of traditions brought to life by Flamenco X. "We are thrilled to present Peña Flamenca: La Corrida de Toros at the American School of Storytelling Theater," said Marie de los Reyes, Director of Flamenco X. "This residency series celebrates the essence of Latin culture, highlighting its rhythmic complexities and emotional depth through live music, powerful dance performances, and heartfelt vocals."

.

Tickets are $18 and available now through Eventbrite, or cash at the door. For more information, visit Flamenco X: www.flamencox.com. 

Coming Soon to North Loop Green: Salt & Flour

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

A discussion with Brian Ingram, Chef and Principal Owner, Purpose Driven Restaurants

Brian Ingram is a prolific restaurateur. With over 30 years in the restaurant industry, Ingram has won awards, set trends, launched brands, innovated concepts and given much back to his community. His latest venture is Salt & Flour in the North Loop Green, targeted to open in late August. We talked to him about the inspiration for Salt & Flour and what he has learned by operating Purpose Restaurants.

Brian IngramQ:  Please tell us the concept behind Salt & Flour. I’ve heard rumors of a fried spaghetti sandwich and must know more.

A:  Salt & Flour is my love letter to my mom. A restaurant that is so deeply personal to me and all the work my mom put in to give me a future. She put me in my first apprenticeship in high school. Put me in a culinary program early in my life that set me on this amazing journey. Cooking for her and seeing her reaction is what gave me the drive to become a chef. 

Food is our love language and is family tradition. Food is a shared celebration of who we are. Food is a handmade, heartfelt expression of love that invites us to gather and speaks to all of our senses. It is a tribute to the salt and flour of our lives - the foundation that built us. At Salt & Flour you’ll find an approachable and comforting menu of reimagined Italian classics including handmade pasta made fresh every day. You can choose any of the pastas to be tossed in a giant roasted parmesan bowl for a divine experience. You can then top with hand shaved truffles and caviar. The pizza is made in a 1500-degree oven on house made focaccia dough. We have a Spicy Sota pizza made with Jalapeno Spam & Japanese BBQ. Some House Specialties will include a Braised Rabbit and Short Rib Stew to Ox Tail with Citrus Gremolata. We didn’t skimp on fresh salads and there is a generous carryout counter. And yes, fried spaghetti sandwiches are on the menu!

Q:  You’re also opening your fifth Hope Breakfast Bar in the North Loop. Congratulations! What have you learned about customer preferences from your breakfast bars? What have you learned about operating a business with a purpose?

A:  We have learned so much from our first guests and are so much more educated on food and beverage offerings than ever before. Customers follow the latest trends on social media and food networks. They want food to not only taste great but to make them feel something. Guests are more discerning than ever when they choose where they spend their resources, and they expect restaurants to be in line with their values.

We have learned that being a purpose driven restaurant is challenging. You have to ensure that every decision you make is in alignment with your core mission. From decisions that affect the operations of our team to the guests we serve. It’s also the most rewarding thing I have ever done. When we can change the lives of our team members or that of a guest it's the best feeling in the world. 

Q:  Do you still like to cook at home? If yes, what might we find you cooking at home?

A:  I love cooking at home, it has always been my love language and how I tell my friends and family I love them. These days you will find me working on recipes for our latest concept Salt & Flour, so lots of pasta dishes and tiramisu are being made at home. 

Q:  You’ve been involved in humanitarian relief efforts. Can you tell us more about this and how we can help?

A:  We understand that over 25,000 people a day die from hunger related issues. Our outreach has been going on since 2019 with over a half a million meals being given free of charge. That continues today, with meals provided to Face to Face feeding at risk youth and displaced families in our community every week. Just by dining in our restaurants you can make a difference in your community. We continue to push proceeds from our sales directly back every day. It could be by giving 100% of our sales as we recently did for a fallen officer, providing over $30,000 to his family. We have helped raise over one million dollars in the last couple years by providing curated chef dinners for other local charities to auction off. 

Q:  That’s so commendable – thank you! How may we follow your news? 

A:  Please follow for all the updates on Instagram @ChefBrianIngram or @PurposeRestaurants.com

Throw the First Pitch at a Minnesota Twins Game - Courtesy of Keeper's Heart Whiskey

The Official Whiskey of the Minnesota Twins, Keeper's Heart Whiskey, announces an exclusive sweepstakes that offers an unforgettable experience for one lucky winner.

Keeper's Heart Whiskey is launching an exclusive contest where the grand prize winner will have the honor of throwing the first pitch at the Minnesota Twins vs. St. Louis Cardinals game at Target Field on Friday, August 23rd. More information.

The Grand Prize Includes:

• The opportunity to throw the first pitch at the Twins vs. Cardinals game on August 23rd.
• Four exclusive suite tickets to enjoy the game in luxury.
• A Keeper’s Heart swag bag full of exclusive merchandise.
• A distillery tour & tasting experience for four at O’Shaughnessy Distilling Co., including a delightful dinner and drinks.

How to Enter:

.

Fans can enter by visiting any of the participating locations throughout the Twin Cities before July 31st. Look for the Keeper's Heart sweepstakes signage inside and scan the QR code to enter. New locations are continually being added, so fans should check the website for updates. Below are a few of the participating locations:

• Surdyk’s Liquor
• 1010 Washington Wine & Spirits
• Mortimer’s Bar
• Stanley’s Northeast Bar Room

Free Art Exhibit at Mill City Museum to Shine a Light on Disability Justice

The Art of Disability Justice Now will be on display for free during regular museum hours from July 19 to November 3, 2024.

Featuring the works of more than a dozen artists, a new exhibit titled The Art of Disability Justice Now will debut at Mill City Museum this month. Curated, organized, and supported by artists, activists, and community organizers, the exhibit highlights disability justice in the Twin Cities.

Through varied works of art, the exhibit serves as an outlet for local artists to share their stories and their mission to shape a more equitable Twin Cities community for people with disabilities. Additionally, it emphasizes the narratives and leadership of individuals who have historically been most marginalized within the mainstream disability rights movement, including BIPOC, queer, trans, and immigrant disabled people.

On July 19 at 5:30 pm, an Opening Night Celebration for the exhibit will take place in the Mill Commons Area. Performances from local artists Said Shaiye, Molly Joyce, Alison Bergblom Johnson, and Houa Moua will take place beginning at 6:30 pm. The event will also be streamed virtually on Zoom. Registration is free and open to the public.

The Art of Disability Justice Now is Community-curated by AmplifyMN: A Disability Justice Collective and the students in AH 5950, Curating Disability Justice (UMN-Twin Cities). In partnership with and supported by the Liberal Arts Engagement Hub, the Minnesota Historical Society, University Libraries, the Critical Disability Studies Collective, The University of Minnesota Imagine Fund, UMN Department of Art History, Minnesota Transform, The Minnesota Council on Disability, and The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the College of Liberal Arts. Funding provided by the State of Minnesota’s Legacy Amendment, through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008, and our generous donors and members.

Featured exhibiting artists include AK Garski, Alison Bergblom Johnson, Donna Ray, Drew Maude-Griffin, Emma MacLean, HML, Janice Essick, Jamie Kubat, Madison Elyse Rubenstein, Zoe Cinel, Taja Will, May Ling Kopecky, Ocean C. Poet, and Trista Marie McGovern.

The exhibit is made possible through funding provided by the Minnesota Legacy Amendment Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Oratorio Society Summer Concert - August 3 at Ted Mann Concert Hall

The Artistry of Genius: A Landmark Revival of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Masterworks for Chorus and Orchestra

Includes rare works by British-African Composer not heard in 100 years

On August 3, embark on a live musical journey through time with the University of Minnesota School of Music and the Oratorio Society of Minnesota as they present "The Artistry of Genius: The Music of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor." This concert, part of the Summer Chorus's 18th season, offers a rare opportunity to experience the revival of Coleridge-Taylor's compositions, some of which have not been performed since the early 1900s. The concert features a 125-voice community choir with orchestra and will be conducted by Matthew Mehaffey and Brandon Berger. The concert will feature professional soloists including two-time Grammy Award winner Dashon Burton, Mikalia Bradberry, Linh Kauffman and Victoria Vargas.

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, a composer whose works bridged cultures and continents, left behind a legacy of profound beauty and innovation. Known for his unique compositional voice, his music remains a testament to his creative genius and his ability to convey deep emotional and narrative richness. The evening's program includes unique and rarely heard pieces including "Kubla Khan," "Meg Blane," and "The Atonement," with musical scores that have been painstakingly restored for this concert.

In an extraordinary feat of musical archaeology, Matthew Mehaffey and Dave Fielding have created newly edited scores and materials for these compositions. This concert marks the first performance of these works using the new editions, which are now published by the University of Minnesota Libraries as part of the English Heritage Music Series (EHMS). The works are available for ensembles around the world to explore and perform, ensuring Coleridge-Taylor's music reaches new audiences and generations.

Tickets and Info: Oratorio.org $30/$20, plus $10 livestream option.

Top Ten Reasons to Attend Taste of Minnesota, July 6 & 7

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

The Taste of Minnesota returns this year on July 6 & 7 on the Nicollet Mall from 11AM to 8PM both days.  It’s a great mid-summer celebration with food, music, family fun and over-the-top people watching. Get your free tickets here.

We asked the organizers why we should attend – here’s their Top 10 List:

1. Delicious Food:  Indulge in a culinary adventure with food from all over Minnesota and the Twin Cities! Taste the flavors of our favorite restaurants and eateries, showcasing the best dishes and specialties that our state has to offer. Plus, don't miss the special highlights curated by co-host and Taste of Minnesota Food Ambassador Chef Andrew Zimmern, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience for all attendees!

Andrew Zimmern

2. Live A-List Music: Enjoy performances by big names like Martina McBride, The Wallflowers, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Morris Day & The Time, plus lots more live music across four stages.

3. Community Spirit & Family-Friendly Fun: Connect with friends, neighbors, and new acquaintances in a lively, welcoming atmosphere while enjoying family-friendly activities like free face painting, a balloon twister, a bouncy house, and more.

4. Co-Hosted by Fancy Ray: Join the excitement with Minneapolis icon and Taste of Minnesota co-host, Fancy Ray McCloney! Known for his flamboyant comic persona and buoyantly self-aggrandizing style, Fancy Ray brings his unique flair to the festival. Don't miss the chance to experience his larger-than-life personality and infectious energy!

Fancy Ray

5. Local Artists: Shop for art and cool gifts from talented local artists, offering a unique selection of handcrafted treasures and one-of-a-kind pieces.

6. Free Entry & Cultural Experience: Enjoy all the festivities with no entry fee while immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Minnesota through food, music, and art.

7.  Yummy Beverages: From craft beers to fine wines and creative cocktails there is something to quench everyone’s thirst. Fresh squeezed lemonade is a summer staple, right?

8. Zip Line Adventure: Take an exhilarating zip line ride down Washington Ave for a unique and thrilling perspective of the festival.

9. F1rst Wrestling Spectacle: Witness the awe-inspiring F1rst Wrestling show where a wrestling ring is set up right on the street, delivering adrenaline-pumping action that's way cool and unforgettable.

10. Puppy Party by The Bond Between: Join the heartwarming puppy party hosted by The Bond Between, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the bond between humans and animals. Help support their mission by donating, fostering, volunteering, or simply sharing their message. Together, let’s fill each other’s hearts with love and compassion!

Here's the map:

Recognizing the Positives of Minneapolis

Room for improvement? Of course - here and everywhere. But let's take a moment to recognize some of the many positives happening in our City, which has received national recognition for an array of features that make Minneapolis a destination for visitors and a source of pride for residents. 

Per a recent news release from the City of Minneapolis, those recognitions include:  

· One of the best in the U.S. and internationally for downtown activity rebound, according to a study from the University of Toronto School of Cities 

· Best city for college graduates, named by the staff at the New York Times 

· Best big city for biking, pedaled by the PeopleForBikes 

· Happiest city in the country, named by Institute for Quality of Life  

“Minneapolis is cruising into the summer and racking up some major wins,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “While we all know our parks are special, our arts scene is unique, and our people are happy, seeing Minneapolis top all these national lists puts a serious hop in our collective step. Our city is on a roll, and we all have to lean into the positive accolades to keep the momentum going.” 

Downtown rebound 

The destination feel of the city was in full force this past weekend, when hundreds of thousands of people descended on downtown for “Gymnastics City USA” and Pride events. City teams report all events were safe and successful because of increased traffic control and true collaboration between city teams and downtown businesses. 

Nicollet Mall was transformed into Promenade du Nord, an ode to all things Paris where athletes will compete in the Summer Games. As part of a citywide effort to revitalize downtown, city leaders are exploring the conversion of Nicollet Mall into a pedestrian only zone, along with options for directing transit service elsewhere through downtown.  

The bustle will continue as Minneapolis hosts the Taste of Minnesota this weekend and Aquatennial celebrations July 24-July 27.  

Pedaling toward success 

For the second year in a row, Minneapolis is ranked number one in biking out of 2,300 cities in the U.S. in the PeopleForBikes’ seventh annual City Ratings, in addition to having one of the best new U.S. bike lanes of 2023. The city’s neighbor, St. Paul, ranked fourth. Cities are measured by the quality and connectivity of its bike network based on safe speeds, protected bike lanes, reallocated road space, intersection safety, network connections and trusted data. Minneapolis boasts 25 miles of on-street protected bikeways and 111 miles of off-street bikeways and trails for residents and visitors to enjoy. In fact, to keep up with demand, the City of Minneapolis is even hiring a bike coordinator.  

“Biking is one of the most popular ways people get around the city, and we couldn’t be prouder of this distinction – for two years running,” said Jenifer Hager, director of transportation planning & programming for the City of Minneapolis. “Our bike share program and trail systems are some of the best in the country. Pedaling through Minneapolis is a great way to see the city and spend the day.”

Meet the Mill City Farmers Market Vendors Series - A Discussion with Jolea Gress, Co-Owner, Green Earth Growers

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Green Earth Growers is a woman-owned, Certified Naturally Grown farm in Prior Lake, focusing on greenhouse grown bedding plants, cut flowers and hanging baskets. The 3-acre farm is owned by Jolea Gress and Jenny Hotz. We talked to Jolea about what inspired her to get started in farming, CSA shares and DIY Flower Buckets. Go see their beautiful plants this week!

Q:  What inspired you to start Green Earth Growers?

A:  I have always loved plants. Both sets of my grandparents farmed, so it's in my blood. My first job with plants was taking care of office plants in downtown Minneapolis during college. I got a job at Linders Greenhouse after that which led me to an organic farm in Prior Lake (the location we are currently still at). They moved their business Up North and my old boss asked if I was interested in renting the space/land. I asked my friend Jenny if she wanted to embark on it with me and we began renting greenhouses and land in late 2004 and have been here ever since.

Q:  What advice would you give to other women looking to enter the agricultural industry or start their own farm?

A:  I would suggest starting out by working on a farm or at a greenhouse and maybe a few different ones. Everyone has different methods and techniques. That way you can be sure it's what you really want before you get started and gain some experience. Be ready to work hard, and make mistakes (it is the very best way to learn), but also you get to take in the rewards and beauty of the circle of life...watching each season unfold from the first seed, to the fruits and flowers, and composting it all back into the earth.

Q:  What do you grow and produce at Green Earth Growers?

A:  We grow a wide variety of annuals, herbs and vegetable plants for many local garden centers, co-ops and fundraisers. We farm produce and cut flowers, which we sell through our CSA and at Mill City Farmers Market. We also sell our cut flowers to a Twin Cities flower exchange and local stores.

Q:  Please tell us about your CSA shares – what might we find in our weekly share basket?

A:  Our CSA shares build as the season progresses. Early boxes include lettuces, strawberries, scallions, summer squash, garlic scapes and more. The really big boxes roll out in August with sweet corn, peppers, tomatoes, raspberries...so much more field goodness.

Q:  I’m intrigued about DIY Flower Buckets – what is it and how may we indulge in this activity?

A:  Our DIY flower buckets are great for weddings, anniversaries, showers or really any event. With each bucket you get a mix of filler, focal flowers and foliage to create your own gorgeous bouquets or centerpieces. Buckets can be reserved by dropping us an email or filling out our form online.

Jolea Gress and Jenny Hotz

Q:  Can you tell us about any innovative techniques or technologies you've implemented at Green Earth Growers?

A:  We grow in accordance with organic standards. We believe in taking care of our soil and land to ensure that it continues to provide for us. In our flower fields we are working towards 'no till' and adding in compost, manures and mulches yearly to help with our clay soils. Last fall we had a partial rebuild of our main greenhouse growing structures due to snow damage in 2023. We have been growing in old wooden greenhouses since the beginning, we now have beautiful new greenhouses and it feels so good.

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  You can subscribe to our newsletter via our website.

We also occasionally post on Instagram and Facebook, too.

A busy day at the Mill City Farmers Market

Don Samuels Asserts Progressive Yet Pragmatic Vision in Race Against Rep. Ilhan Omar

By Don Samuels

People can sense there’s something deeply broken about our political system. It leaves most voters angry, exhausted, or deeply suspicious of the motivations of their elected officials. Very few districts in Minnesota or our nation are truly competitive. We’re left with countless safe blue and red districts through that geographic polarization. In those districts, winning a political party’s endorsement usually guarantees election to office. As a candidate in Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional District in a rematch with Rep. Ilhan Omar, I believe voters deserve more.

Don SamuelsPredictably, Omar received the DFL Party endorsement in 2022–as she has in all of her congressional races. However, that didn’t stop our campaign from making history by coming within 2.1% of defeating her in that year’s August primary with less than five months of campaigning.

As a lifelong, progressive, pragmatic Democrat, my opponent and I have many positions in common. We both support a woman’s right to choose and efforts to codify reproductive rights into federal law. We both believe climate change is an urgent concern that requires bold leadership at the federal level. We also believe access to quality and affordable healthcare, housing, and education is necessary to create a life of opportunity and a strong America. It’s our vastly different approach to the job that voters should care most about.

Both Omar and I are immigrants. I arrived in America from post-colonial Jamaica with $87 dollars on my way to attend Pratt Institute of Design in New York. I worked full-time at night while studying full-time by day, often suffering wage theft and other abuses while working without legal permissions and protections. This is when I committed to staying connected to the margins by always living in the most challenging part of any city I lived in. That is why my wife, Sondra, and I live in the most challenged section of north Minneapolis and have worked tirelessly for the interests of our community for more than 27 years.

In the wake of the murder of George Floyd, Sondra and I held countless community events for contemplation, prayer, and unity. Meanwhile, Omar stoked our community’s anguish as she called to defund and dismantle the Minneapolis Police Department. When cooler heads, like former President Barack Obama, tried to channel righteous concern into real solutions, pointing out that the “snappy slogan” would make the work of real reform more difficult, our congresswoman responded directly by saying it wasn’t a snappy slogan, but a “policy demand.” Sadly, Omar’s intransigence on public safety even extended to the halls of Congress, where she was one of only three Democrats who voted against additional security measures at the U.S. Capitol after the January 6th insurrection.

On the campaign trail, Omar touts $54 million in earmarks over five years that she and other members of Congress have had to fund worthy programs in their districts. But that is less than 1% of the infrastructure dollars coming to Minnesota because of President Joe Biden’s signature infrastructure bill, which will bring more than $6 billion to our state. Sadly, Omar was one of just six Democrats to vote against this historic and much-needed funding, which will improve our transportation systems, invest in green technologies to support our climate change goals, and put thousands of Minnesotans to work building and maintaining it all.

While my opponent has attempted to frame a complex, decades-long conflict as a simple morality play where people are either “pro-genocide” or “anti-genocide,” her own voting record hardly meets the standard she lays out. She was the only Democratic member of Congress to vote against sanctioning Iranian leaders in the wake of the killing of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman murdered by Iran’s morality police for removing her headscarf. She was also the only Democrat to vote against sanctions on Turkish leaders after they attacked Kurdish minorities.

In addition, Omar was one of only two Democrats who refused to vote in recognition of the Armenian genocide. One of only two to oppose sanctions on both Russian oil and oligarchs in the wake of the Ukraine invasion. She has even explained those votes as reflective of her opposition to sanctions–and yet she supports sanctions against nations like Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. She is a walking contradiction.

Perhaps more troubling is Omar’s pattern of self-dealing that doesn’t square with her words or our district’s values. She has derided foreign influence spending by some nations while taking luxury trips to Qatar and Pakistan, which was paid for by those nations. The latter was notable because she failed to notify the U.S. State Department of her travels, something highly unusual for that type of trip. The former seems more straightforward. She was given World Cup luxury box tickets in a stadium widely criticized as being built with slave labor.

Despite Omar’s pronouncements on big money in politics, she paid her political consultant-turned-husband $3 million of campaign funds in 2020. After a series of recent news stories detailing irregular business dealings, questions remain unanswered, including why the Office of Foreign Assets Control, the U.S. Treasury Department charged with enforcing international sanctions, froze her husband's business account.

I believe America deserves leaders focused on serving their communities, not on serving their own interests or the interests of a narrow, vocal constituency. Over the past several years, we’ve faced significant challenges in our district, country, and worldwide. Countless voters we’ve spoken with have pointed to these challenges and expressed their disappointment, dismay, and hurt over Omar’s words and actions, which consistently have divided our community and delivered us further from solutions.

Thankfully, our democracy empowers us with the tools necessary to get the change in leadership we deserve. The DFL Primary election is on August 13th–and the winner of this contest has gone on to win in November every single time since 1960. Together, we can win. Please join us at www.donsamuels.com.

-   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -   -

Don Samuels is a candidate for Congress in Minnesota's Fifth District and the former CEO of MicroGrants. He has also served three terms on the Minneapolis City Council and one term on the Minneapolis Public Schools Board.

Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's Summer Restaurant Week is July 15-21

Over 50 restaurants are participating in Mpls.St.Paul Magazine's Summer Restaurant Week, July 15-21. Enjoy mouth-watering two- and three-course prix fixe meals at prices ranging from $15 to $45.

Share your Restaurant Week experience on Instagram and you could be featured as the “Diner of the Day” and win a $50 restaurant gift card! Here’s how it works:

- Post a picture of your Restaurant Week meal on Instagram

- Tag the post with #MNRestaurantWeek AND the restaurant name AND @mspmag

- Follow @mspmag on Instagram

.

A new winner will be announced each day. 

Limit one entry per person per restaurant per day/Limit one prize per entrant.

Contest period is Monday, July 15 – Sunday, July 21 at 11:59PM.