NE Community Art Initiative: Mystery Trash Remix - Transforming Waste into Art

This summer Art to Change the World is presenting the Mystery Trash Remix, where they invite 20 selected artists from local NE Minneapolis communities to participate in a unique creative challenge that transforms single-use plastics and discarded materials into new artworks to then be shown in a public exhibition. They are specifically seeking artists from the environmental justice communities of Marshall Terrace, Sheridan and Bottineau, as they know those neighborhoods are home to talented artists and passionate community members who would bring unique perspectives to this environmental art challenge. This project is part of Artistic ReUse-A-Thon (ARAT), promoting creative reuse and community engagement through art. 

Artist Benefits:

· $200 guaranteed payment for participation

· Opportunity to compete for $500 Grand Prize

· Professional exhibition of artwork

· Community networking and exposure

· Recyclable materials provided (plus contribution of your own)

Project Timeline:

• Application Deadline: July 27 (applications close once 20 artists have submitted)
• Grab Bag Pickup: August 10 at Art to Change The World (1:00pm - 5:00pm)
• Creation Period: August 10 - October 23
• Exhibition: October 24 - November 10
• "Artistic ReUse-A-Thon" Art Supply Swap, Make and Takes and Mystery Trash Remix Reception on November 1 (10:00am - 5:00pm)

All activities will take place at Flux Arts Building, 2505 NE Howard St, Minneapolis. This project offers an innovative approach to waste reduction through art, plus financial support being provided to local artists ($4,000+ total in artist fees and prizes). 

Historic Installment at the Guthrie in Conjunction with Cabaret

Cabaret is currently playing at the Guthrie thru August 24. On a recent visit to the Guthrie, Becky Fillinger snapped a few pics of the historic Cabaret installation on the 5th floor. One side provides info on Cabaret artists, and the other has a historical timeline of the Weimar Republic, the German state from 1918 to 1933.

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The building is open to the public during posted hours, so you can pop in to view the installation with or without a show ticket. Don't forget, the Guthrie also offers behind the scenes tours.

Double Rainbow Over the East Bank by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

In the early evening of July 15th clouds rolled in over the Mill District. At first they looked beautiful, but then the clouds turned dark and ominous. After that it did not take long for heavy rain and winds to roll through. I abandoned the idea of grilling dinner on our patio. But then shortly after the rain stopped the skies cleared and a beautiful full rainbow appeared in the eastern sky. From my vantage point I could see both ends meet the horizon. The surprise came afterwards when I went to develop the print. A second rainbow appeared directly above the first, though not as brilliant in color.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Announces August 14 Fall Sampler

OLLI Fall Sampler / August 14, 9:30–11am via Zoom

Are you looking for high-quality courses that are offered throughout the year? Would you like to share intellectually stimulating social, cultural, and volunteer opportunities with a community of dedicated lifelong learners such as yourself? Look no further! The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Minnesota offers all these things and more.

Register now for the annual OLLI Sampler on Thursday, August 14, 9:30–11am (CDT). This free online event gives you the chance to learn about the OLLI experience from a member’s perspective. During the Sampler, three instructors will present mini-lectures based on past or forthcoming courses. 

Following the Sampler, you’ll receive a link to OLLI’s fall 2025 Course Guide via email, allowing you to browse and explore nearly 90 courses, offered in person and online.

Two Mill District Restaurants Return to the 2025 Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge

Compassionate Action for Animals (CAA) has announced the 7th annual Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge, running throughout the month of August. The challenge highlights the excitement and deliciousness of plant-based cuisine, inviting diners to become food critics and help crown the region’s top chef.

During the entire month of August, 29 restaurants across the metro area (including Sawatdee Thai Restaurant and Umbra in the Mill District), will unleash their most creative and delectable vegan dishes. Forget everything you thought you knew about plant-based food — these chefs are set to push boundaries, tantalize taste buds, and prove that vegan cuisine isn’t just an alternative, but a vibrant, exciting, and delicious culinary force.

Per Laura Matanah, Executive Director of CAA, “We’re seeing incredible creativity from our local chefs. These aren’t your typical veggie burgers — we want people to say ‘Fork Yeah!’ to every incredible dish they try. Whether you’re vegan or not, it’s a chance to experience the tremendous talent of the Twin Cities restaurant community and enjoy some truly delicious plant-based food.”

How the Challenge Works: Taste, Vote, Win!

1. Diners visit participating restaurants throughout August and try their special Vegan Chef Challenge dishes.

2. After savoring their meals, diners cast their votes online at caa.mn/tcvcc.

3. Every vote and social media post about the challenge enters participants into drawings for restaurant gift cards and merchandise!

Last year, diners cast more than 1,100 votes and eight restaurants decided to keep the challenge dishes on the menu long-term.

Winners will be crowned at the September 21 Twin Cities Veg Fest, a celebration of all things plant-based. For challenge updates, follow: Facebook, Instagram, Web

Participating Restaurants:

• Barbette

• The Block Food + Drink - Rogers, Vegan Lumpia

• The Block Food + Drink - St. Louis Park, Vegan Pesto Rosso

• Book Club

• Brianno’s Chart House, Caribbean Vegan Bowl

• Crasqui Restaurant, Bollitos Pelones Veggie Style

• Duke’S on 7, Vegan Spaghetti & Meatballs

• Food on the Fly, Crispy Chicken Rice Bowl

• Gigi’s Cafe

• Hard Times Cafe, Vegan “Red Pork” Taco

• Himalayan Restaurant, Chili Momo

• The Howe Daily Kitchen & Bar, Vegan Beef Wellington

• Lulu EthioVegan Cuisine

• Lutunji’s Palate, A Pot of Love

• Namaste Cafe

• Pat’s Tap

• Pub 819

• Reverie Cafe + Bar, Chili Crisp Burnt End Tacos

• Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Maple Grove, Stir Fry Cabbage with Tofu

• Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Mpls, Stir Fry Cabbage with Tofu

• Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - St. Paul, Stir Fry Cabbage with Tofu

• Stanley’s NE Bar Room, Chimi Chickpea Cauli-Power

• Starling, Sweet Potato & Chickpea Curry

• Stonegarden, Summer Sun

• Tiny Diner

• Tori Ramen, Hobak Buchim

• Umbra Minneapolis, Garlic Scape Cavatelli

• VITALIST FRESH, Taco Pizza

• WELLS Roadside, Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Transformative Development: North Loop Green

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

What was once surface parking has been reimagined as North Loop Green - a lively, versatile space for the community. We talked to Katie Andres, Events Manager for North Loop Green, about all the components of this unique development: residential, business, dining and an ever-growing list of public events. 

Katie AndresQ:  Please tell us about North Loop Green.   

A:  North Loop Green, 350 N 5th Street in the North Loop, is a mixed-use development in downtown Minneapolis, designed to seamlessly integrate living, working, and recreational spaces. We offer residential, corporate, dining and a one-acre outdoor space, called “The Green.” The project boasts the city's tallest skyway, connecting the residential and office towers.

North Loop Green transformed former surface parking lots into a dynamic, multi-functional community space. The Green is open from sunrise to sunset – the businesses’ operating hours are listed on their websites.   

Q:  Can you share more details about the residential, corporate offices and restaurants at North Loop Green?

• Residential Living:  North Loop Green 360 offers 354 luxury rental units, ranging from studios up to large 3-bedroom apartments. Additionally, there are 96 short-term rental units on 8 floors - Sonder North Loop Green Apartments - providing upscale accommodations with amenities like a fitness center, infrared sauna, and an outdoor spa pool. The short-term rental units have a two-night minimum – we’ve been completely booked with the Twins season now underway.   
• Office Space:  Our corporate space is 70% leased. Piper Sandler Companies will move in this month and occupy two floors. Other tenants include ESG Architects, KPMG and Varde Partners. The 14-story office tower provides 350,000 square feet of creative and flexible workspace.
• Dining:  Chef Brian Ingram has two restaurants at North Loop Green. Hope Breakfast Bar serves breakfast and lunch. Salt & Flour offers lunch and dinner. The two restaurants share a kitchen.  Bassett Hound, our bar adjacent to the patio space is closed Monday, but open the other six days of the week. Bassett Hound has a full bar and offers ‘grab and go’ food items – flatbreads, charcuterie, hummus, sliders – to enjoy on The Green. Bassett Hound gets its name from Bassett Creek, which runs beneath the development.
• Public Green Space:  At the heart of North Loop Green is a one-acre park known as "The Green," which we envision as a communal gathering spot with year-round programming. You’ll find something happening here almost every day of the year – yoga, vintage clothing events, trivia, Twins pre-gaming, movie nights, Children’s Theater events and more. Check out the events calendar and sign up for notifications. Ninety percent of our events are free and open to the public.

Q:  How may we follow NLG news?

A:  For more information, you can visit the official North Loop Green website: northloopgreen.com. Also, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Drop by The Green!

Celebrate Minneapolis’ Global Connections at Sister Cities Day Event, July 20

Free event on July 20 features performances, ice cream, and anniversary celebrations  

Minneapolis’ annual Sister Cities Day celebration returns Sunday, July 20, from 1-5 p.m. at Nicollet Island Pavilion with an afternoon of international culture, entertainment and community. The event is free, family friendly and open to all.   

This year’s celebration will include live music and dance performances representing seven of Minneapolis’ 12 Sister Cities as well as cultural displays and crafts. Guests can also enjoy complimentary make-your-own ice cream sundaes and other refreshments while supplies last.   

The 2025 event marks several significant milestones in Minneapolis’ international partnerships: 

• 45 years with Ibaraki City, Japan 
• 25 years with Eldoret, Kenya 
• 25 years with Uppsala, Sweden 

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and other dignitaries will be on hand to commemorate these enduring relationships and highlight the importance of global connection at the local level. 

Per Melvin Tennant, President and CEO of Meet Minneapolis, “Sister Cities Day is a vibrant celebration of cultural awareness and local community. This event allows our residents to experience the music, art and traditions that make our 12 international partnerships so special. It’s a joyful reminder that diplomacy isn’t just about governments – it’s about people coming together to learn, share and grow.” 

Performances* include: 

1:00pm  The Mighty Drumming Club – Taiko Arts Midwest (Ibaraki City, Japan)

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

2:00pm  Official remarks to recognize anniversaries of three Sister City relationships:

·  Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey

·  Molly Wright Steenson

Honorary Consul of Sweden (Uppsala, Sweden – 25 years)

·  His Excellency Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim

Governor of Uasin Gishu County (Eldoret, Kenya – 25 years)

·  Sei Shirotani

President of the International Friendship Association of Ibaraki (Ibaraki City, Japan – 45 years)

2:20pm  Rafiki USA (Eldoret, Kenya) 

2:40pm  Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag – Swedish Key Harp Ensemble (Uppsala, Sweden)

3:00pm  Raices de Chile (Santiago, Chile)

3:30pm  Francine Roch accompanied by Mark Stillman on accordion (Tours, France)

4:00pm  Hongdae Lion Dance & Tai Chi School (Harbin, China) 

4:30pm  Ballet Folklorico Mexico Azteca (Cuernavaca, Mexico) 

*Performance times subject to change.

Set alongside the Mississippi River in one of the most beautiful parks in Minneapolis, the Sister Cities Day celebration will occur rain or shine. 

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. 

Ono Hawaiian Plates to Open in Former Guacaya Bistreaux Location This Fall

Chef Warren Seta and Jess Kelley - photo credit Twin Cities TPT

The new 337 N Washington Avenue location, which was formerly home to Guacaya Bistreaux, will offer an expanded dining experience with seating for approximately 80 guests indoors and up to 60 on the outdoor patio.

Ono Hawaiian Plates, the fast-casual restaurant known for its authentic Hawaiian cuisine, has announced its return to the North Loop. Owners Chef Warren Seta and Jess Kelley, partners in both business and life, will open their new location at 337 N Washington Avenue, just a stone’s throw from their original North Loop Galley location.

Ono Hawaiian Plates first opened in 2019 within the North Loop Galley, quickly gaining a loyal following for its hearty and flavorful offerings, including the classic ”Plate Lunch,” a staple in Hawaii, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of the islands, comprised of protein such as katsu chicken or kahlua pork, two scoops of rice, and a scoop of macaroni salad. Before the food hall's closure in May of this year, the team successfully expanded to add a larger space at United Noodles in January 2024, which significantly expanded their kitchen for growing catering and take-out operations, alongside a 40-seat dining area. 

The duo will continue to operate their United Noodles location, affectionately dubbed “Ono Central.” Updates are underway at the new North Loop space, and the team hopes to be opening by the end of September.

“We made a lot of magic happen from that original 200-square-foot stall, and we were thrilled to have such an amazing reception from the neighborhood, and then from far beyond. We have so many stories of people driving quite a distance just to get some of our food. Now, we’re doing weddings and catering to sports teams and corporate groups. We’ve grown so much. It’s incredible, and we feel so blessed to have this opportunity to return to the North Loop.” Jess Kelley

The new North Loop location will offer Ono’s famous plate lunch specials for dine-in or take-out during the day, followed by a festive Tiki-themed Happy Hour. Evenings will feature a “Pāʻina Menu.” (pronounced pah-ee-nah) Per Chef Seta, “In Hawaiian, pāʻina translates to meal, or a small party with dinner. The word evokes a sense of gathering and connection, especially through shared food. This menu reflects how locals truly eat in Hawaii – everything is created to be shareable. We also call it ‘pu pu,’ which really means it’s great food for grazing as you relax and enjoy time together, and everything can be enjoyed family-style. Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family, and it’s at the heart of everything we do.” 

Chicken Katsu

Ono Hawaiian Plate lunch

Pupu Platter

There will be a full bar serving classic cocktails, beers on tap, and throwback Tiki drinks. The Pāʻina Menu will feature shareable dishes such as Sizzling Kalbi ribs, Poké flights, whole fried Hawaiian Snapper, Confit-stuffed Miso Crepes, Lumpianadas (Filipino  Empanadas), and a variety of salads and sides.

While their offerings are centered around Hawaiian comfort food, Chef Seta and Jess Kelley bring a wealth of experience from their backgrounds in fine dining and top-tier hospitality. The couple met while working in the high-end restaurant and resort world in Honolulu, and moved to the Twin Cities a decade ago to be closer to Kelley’s family, bringing with them a desire to share their favorite flavors and the spirit of aloha.

“Our goal has always been to offer the very best version of our favorite foods, those that everyday Hawaiians know and love. It’s a hodgepodge of dishes and flavors with different influences that all came together in the islands, and somehow all work beautifully together. We offer big portions, a great value, and share the spirit of the place we love. We can’t wait to add to our team and welcome both old friends and new ones to this wonderful space.” Chef Seta

Updates and details around the opening will be shared on Ono’s website, Facebook and Instagram.

Public Invited to Celebrate the Reopening of the Stone Arch Bridge, August 9

Stone Arch Bridge Reopening Community Celebration

11am to 1pm on Saturday, August 9
Father Hennepin Bluff Park Bandstand, 420 SE Main Street

The public is invited to attend this free, family-friendly event. A program with speaker remarks and a ceremonial ribbon-cutting will take place with community leaders at 11am, followed by a walk across the bridge into downtown Minneapolis. There will be food trucks, live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages, and a demonstration of construction materials and historical fun facts. The public is encouraged to check out the event activities located on both sides of the bridge. Monitor the project webpage as more details are added.

Schedule update

Stone Arch Bridge construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of August. First, the bridge will reopen to pedestrians and bicyclists on August 9 in conjunction with the community celebration. Any remaining work would wrap up within the following weeks and should not require any further closures.

About the project

Starting in April 2024, crews began repairing the Stone Arch Bridge spanning the Mississippi River on the edge of downtown Minneapolis. Crews are repairing and replacing stone, replacing the mortar on the entire bridge, and making other repairs as needed. Stone repair and mortar replacement will slow deterioration and improve the condition of the bridge. For more information, visit the project webpage. If you have questions or concerns regarding the Stone Arch Bridge project, please contact the project team.

Theatre Latté Da’s Next Festival Kicks Off July 25 with The Homefront

Article by Becky Fillinger, photo provided

A Discussion with Malika Oyetimein, Co-book Writer of The Homefront

Theater Latté Da’s annual Next Festival showcases readings of three new musical works – and it allows us, the audience, to get in on the ground floor of the creative process. Following each presentation is an in-depth conversation with the creative team – playwright, composers and lyricists. We did not want to wait to hear more about one of this year’s selections – The Homefront. In the play, when World War II comes to a close and the men return home, the women are immediately fired from their jobs at the factory. Two best friends - one black and one white - lead a movement to fight for the jobs of their fellow female workers.

Malika OyetimeinWe spoke to Malika Oyetimein, co-book writer of The Homefront, about creativity, collaboration and mentorship and staying true to yourself. Get tickets here for the July performances. 

Q:  How did your collaboration with Sam Salmond (music and lyrics) and Jenny Stafford (co-book writer) come about for The Homefront? 

A:  This is a long answer, but I am going to attempt to make it short. In 2018 as The Homefront was being developed, I was brought on as the Director of a developmental workshop. Over the course of that process the show grew exponentially. When we wrapped up Sam and Jenny asked me to stay on as the full-time Director of wherever the show would go next. I very excitedly said yes. Unfortunately, weeks later, I would become very sick and had to step away from the project altogether. Then COVID-19 hit the world and we all were sidelined for a while. Two years later, Sam and Jenny reached back out to me and asked me if I wanted to continue with the project. Not only as a Director, but as a co-writer as well. To say that I was shocked and thrilled is the understatement of a decade. I am now so excited to be a part of the team, not only as a Director but co-book writer.

Q:  How has your identity influenced your choices as an artist and storyteller?

A:  I am a disabled daughter of an immigrant, the granddaughter of a schoolteacher from Georgia, and a scholar. In my body I represent so much of what makes the United States of America great - and that is the foundation of my storytelling. My view of the world includes so many other communities and identities - how could it not shape the work that I do?

Q:  Who have been your most important mentors, and how did they shape your path?

A:  I have had the good fortune to be mentored by the late Walter Dallas and Valerie Curtis-Newton. My mentors have made me into the woman and director I am today and I owe them absolutely everything. Valerie and Walter saw me at a time where everyone looked at me in a room and wanted me to be the intern. They saw a Director! They saw my promise, nurtured my dreams and gave me a safe space to fail. Because of them - I am. 

Q:  How do you maintain creative momentum and self-care in an often demanding industry?

A:  This is the number one question! It is difficult. It is so difficult, but I have learned throughout the last few years to practice being present. It may sound silly; it may sound easy – but it is a every day practice. Because the industry is so demanding and I am a full-time professor as well – I have to practice excellent time management as well as being 100% in the present moment and not too much future projection.

Q:  What are the plans for The Homefront after the Next Festival at Theater Latté Da?

A:  Time will tell! Hopefully somebody gives us a lot of money to do a big splashy production in New York City! 

Q:  I wish you much success with the play. How may we follow your news?

A:  Please do follow me! You can find me at my website www.malikaoye.com or you can follow me on Instagram: Mama Tayo.

Minneapolis Aquatennial Returns July 23 - 26

The Minneapolis Downtown Council has announced the 2025 lineup of events for the Minneapolis Aquatennial, the official civic celebration of the City of Minneapolis. The annual tradition returns Wednesday, July 23 through Saturday, July 26. All events are free, family-friendly, and open for all to enjoy.

The bookends of this year’s schedule are Aquatennial’s longtime signature events:

Aquatennial Torchlight Parade

Along Nicollet Mall from 12th to 4th Street. Annually the largest nighttime parade in Minnesota, the Aquatennial Torchlight Parade will fill downtown Minneapolis with great floats, displays, and marching bands through the heart of downtown.

This year’s Grand Marshal is Gopher Men’s Hockey Coach, Bob Motzko. Motzko, one of the most accomplished coaches in American hockey today, will serve as head coach of the 2026 U.S. National Junior Team. The team will play in the 2026 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, December 26, 2025 – January 5, 2026, in Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Target Fireworks

Taking place along the banks of the Mississippi on West River Parkway near the Stone Arch Bridge, the Target Fireworks are considered one of the top five annual fireworks shows in the entire country. Produced by the world-famous Zambelli Fireworks team, the fireworks will once again be choreographed to music and simulcast live on KDWB.

Come early for Aquatennial Pre-Fireworks Festivities on West River Parkway beginning at 4 pm. The pre-party includes fantastic live bands, Chameleon Markets, Mpls Craft and Vintage Markets featuring local entrepreneurs, Cars and Coffee Show, a fun-filled Kids Zone including Children’s Entrepreneur Market, and plenty of food and beverage options. 

Per Adam Duininck, president and CEO, Minneapolis Downtown Council, “Aquatennial is an exciting summer celebration for our community. This year’s Aquatennial lineup includes more than two dozen activities downtown, headlined by the Aquatennial Torchlight Parade on Wednesday and the Target Fireworks on Saturday night. Come downtown and enjoy all of the festivities while taking in all that our city has to offer - incredible dining, nightlife, performances, sports and more.”

Most of the events take place in the heart of downtown – from Loring Park and The Commons and along Nicollet and West River Road. The schedule and the proximity of the activities make Aquatennial a walkable and bikeable experience throughout the four days.

Here are some of the highlights of the 2025 Minneapolis Aquatennial. A full schedule of events can be found at aquatennial.com/events. Check back for updates leading up to Aquatennial, as event details are subject to change.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23

We Are Water MN is an interactive exhibit that invites visitors to explore the deep and personal connections Minnesotans have with water. Through powerful stories, historical insights, and engaging displays, the exhibit highlights the cultural, environmental, and economic significance of water in our state.

Go Outside: Summer Sessions – Hennepin Government, Center North Plaza, 11:30am–1pm. Enjoy a live performance, an Aquatennial activity, and more.

Loring Park Family Fun Night, 5:30–7:30 pm.

Twin Cities River Rats Waterski Show – West River Road on Mississippi River between Broadway and Plymouth Avenues, 6:30pm.

Aquatennial Torchlight Parade – Nicollet from 12th to 4th Streets, 7:30pm.

Parks Movie Night “Wicked” sing along - Commons, 9 pm.

THURSDAY, JULY 24

We Are Water MN is an interactive exhibit that invites visitors to explore the deep and personal connections Minnesotans have with water. Through powerful stories, historical insights, and engaging displays, the exhibit highlights the cultural, environmental, and economic significance of water in our state. 

Concert at The Commons – Meat Raffle Ska, 7–9pm.

Movie Night “Surf’s Up” with a Sing United performance before the movie, Target Field Station, 6:30pm.

Twin Cities River Rats Waterski Show – West River Road on Mississippi River between Broadway and Plymouth Avenues, 6:30pm.

FRIDAY, JULY 25

We are Water Exhibit – RSM Plaza ground level on Nicollet Mall, 11am–5pm. We Are Water MN is an interactive exhibit that invites visitors to explore the deep and personal connections Minnesotans have with water. Through powerful stories, historical insights, and engaging displays, the exhibit highlights the cultural, environmental, and economic significance of water in our state.

AlleyJam Skateboarding – Fair School Alley 10th & Hennepin 4–7pm.

CorePower Outdoor Yoga Class - Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, 6–7pm.

Minnesota Twins vs. Washington Nationals – Target Field, 7:10pm.

SATURDAY, JULY 26

Twin Cities Carifest – West River Road between Plymouth and Broadway Ave, 10am–10pm.

We are Water Exhibit – RSM Plaza ground level on Nicollet Mall, 11am–4pm. We Are Water MN is an interactive exhibit that invites visitors to explore the deep and personal connections Minnesotans have with water. Through powerful stories, historical insights, and engaging displays, the exhibit highlights the cultural, environmental, and economic significance of water in our state.

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Aquatennial Ambassadors Organization Coronation – Ted Mann Concert Hall, 4–6pm.

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Chameleon Market at Aquatennial – Chicago Mall between Guthrie Theater and Mill City Museum, 4–10pm. Chameleon supports entrepreneurial success through networking/training, pop-ups, and brick-and-mortar shops. Join us to champion entrepreneurs in our network and discover great products from skincare to snacks, accessories to art, and more!

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Mpls Craft & Mpls Vintage Market – Chicago Mall between Guthrie Theater and Mill City Museum, 4pm–10pm.

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Children’s Entrepreneur Market at Kids Zone - West River Parkway 5-10pm.

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MN Cars & Coffee Show – West River Parkway near 3rd Ave. Bridge, 4–7pm.

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Fireworks Pre-Show – West River Parkway near Stone Arch Bridge, 5–10pm.

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Entertainment Lineup:

Jordan Johnston, 5pm

Pullstring, 6pm

Obi Original & The Black Atlantics, 7pm

School of Rock (Plymouth), 8pm

Dysfunktional, 9pm

Kids Zone – Rondo Double Dutch, Funtime Funktions (glitter, tattoos, and spin zone), Amazing Balloons, Twin Cities Trapeze performances

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Minnesota Twins vs. Washington Nationals – Target Field, 6:10pm.

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Target Fireworks – West River Parkway near Stone Arch Bridge, 10pm.

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More information available at aquatennial.com and follow along @Aquatennial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for up-to-the-minute details.

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The Minneapolis Aquatennial, the Official Civic Celebration of the City of Minneapolis, offers outstanding entertainment and activities in the City of Lakes for all ages. It is managed and produced by the Minneapolis Downtown Council. Thank you to our partners, Target, Cordia, Hennepin Healthcare, Stigma, iHeart Radio, Metro Transit, Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, City of Minneapolis CEAP, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board. For more information, please visit aquatennial.com or call 612-376-7669.

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Social Media Channels:

Facebook - /aquatennial

Twitter - @aquatennial

Instagram - @aquatennial

Hashtags - #Aquatennial

Minneapolis Food Truck Festival - August 2 at Father Hennepin Bluff Park

Festivities Include over 40 Food Trucks, Craft Sips and Cocktails, Live Music, Games for All Ages, a Doggie Station with Adoptions, and Fundraiser for Feed My Starving Children

The MN Food Truck Festival®, the Upper Midwest’s largest gathering of food trucks, returns to its original city with the Minneapolis Food Truck Festival happening Saturday, August 2, at the newly renovated Father Hennepin Bluff Park, located at 420 Main Street SE along the Mississippi River in the historic Saint Anthony Main neighborhood.

The festival runs from 11:00am to 9:00pm and is free to attend and open to the public.

The Minneapolis Food Truck Festival is the second in a series of three summer events hosted by MN Food Truck Festival. The gathering will feature over 40 food trucks, nonfood mobile vendors, and a Craft Sips station offering cold brews, seltzers, and cocktails including the event’s new signature MN Food Truck Festival® craft-batch vodka drink. The lively lineup of live music includes Kingsview, Danny Tanner & The Full House, and You Oughta Know. Dog rescue organization Rescue Network will be there with adorable pooches for adoption, and there will be games and activities for all ages.

Cuisine from around the world will be represented, and nonfood vendors will offer items like fashion and accessories, a mobile garden center, vintage vinyl, panoramic photo booth, permanent jewelry, airbrush tattoos, and a mechanical bull. The event is also dog-friendly, and guests are welcome to bring their four-legged family members!

Per Jess Fast, co-organizer, MN Food Truck Festival®, “We are so excited to return to our roots in Minneapolis this summer. It’s where our MN Food Truck Festivals began! Our new location is so beautiful and we’re proud to bring the energy back to a community that’s been with us from the start.”

Music Schedule:

11:00am-2:00pm  Kingsview 

  2:30pm-5:30pm  Danny Tanner & The Full House

  6:00pm-9:00pm  You Oughta Know

Since 2016, the MN Food Truck Festival® has raised over half a million meals to support global hunger relief efforts for children. The MN Food Truck Festival summer series will wrap up at the Anoka Food Truck Festival on Saturday, August 16. For more information visit www.mnfoodtruckfestival.com.

4th of July Fireworks by Ric Rosow

Submitted by Ric Rosow

The riverfront was loaded with lots of spectators, many of whom arrived early to claim a spot to sit. Last night I used a different technique on a number of my shots. I read an article earlier in the day published by Canon. They suggested appropriate camera settings, but also a technique where the camera is placed on “bulb” mode which allows one to manually determine how long to keep the lens shutter open. In my case I used a cable to trigger the shot and of course had the camera on a tripod. That all is fairly typical and used by photographers when doing long exposures. But what they then suggested was to place a baseball hat over the lens in between the explosion of individual fireworks while the shutter is held open. So when a firework went up in the sky I would trigger the shutter open for just the explosion, then cover the lens with the hat, next remove it when the next explosion occurred, and only after that release the shutter button to close the lens opening. That process captured the colors of two or more separate fireworks which explains why the colors may look different than a normal shot.

July 2 Bridge 9 Improvements Project Update

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

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

*  *  *  Latest project news  *  *  * 

2025 Construction Phase

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

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

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

Concrete block from abutment 1 being removed

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

Setting falsework for the new deck

Schedule

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

Traffic Impact

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

Current Work

For the month of June, the following construction operations were performed: removing the concrete abutment 1, removing portions of the southern approach spans, performing steel preparation, including installing shear studs on the northern approach span, and setting falsework on the northern approach span.

Setting wire saw to cut out the old abutment

Coming Up

Deck removals on the southern approach span, setting forms and pouring concrete on abutment 1, installing rebar on the northern approach span.

Stay Connected

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

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

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

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

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

Small Business Spotlight: Cafe Yoto

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Chef Yo Hasegawa making noodlesMake your way to Cafe Yoto at 548 N Washington Avenue, Suite 105 in the North Loop for udon noodles made fresh daily, sushi hand rolls and a customer experience that is hard to top!

We talked to Chef Yo Hasegawa about the concepts of Kokoro and Omotenashe, which he is bringing to the North Loop in abundance. The menu is extensive and the food is comforting – let’s go!

Q:  What’s the story behind Cafe Yoto - how would you describe its vibe and mission?

A:  I have worked many years in Japanese restaurants around town and at Kado no Mise. I wanted to open my own restaurant honoring my Japanese heritage while making it accessible in a fast casual setting. At Cafe Yoto, we do everything with Kokoro (with heart, with spirit). This is how we approach menu development, and with the preparation of every dish and our service.

Q:  What sets Cafe Yoto apart from other spots in the North Loop?

A:  First, let me say that every place in the North Loop is great! We make our own udon noodles fresh daily, we use premium Hokkaido rice, and we make temaki (sushi hand rolls) and many other Japanese dishes that are quick for dine in or takeout. Check out our menu here.

Above, Niku Udon, and below, Kado Don

Q:  The menu feels fresh and intentional - how do you and the team develop it?

A:  Thank you! I make food that I grew up eating in my childhood and now make for my own family. I make food from memories I have from visiting Japan. I want to honor Japanese cuisine and make it available and accessible. We like to make food items that bring nostalgia to someone from Japan, someone who may have visited Japan or someone who may want to visit in the future.

Q:  As GM, how do you shape the culture at Cafe Yoto? What do you look for when building your team?

A:  In building our team we looked for people that work with Kokoro. It is important to us that we all care about the guest experience. One of our core values is a Japanese concept called omotenashe (ohmo-te-nashe). It translates to wholehearted hospitality and selfless service. We sincerely and graciously create a space of thoughtfulness and attention to detail, and we anticipate the needs of guests.

Q:  Tell us more about omotenashe. How do you approach creating a great customer experience?

A:  We allow each guest to get the experience they want and create space where it feels ok to ask questions. Some menu items may be unfamiliar to some people. We are available to answer any questions about the menu, ingredients, allergies, and preparation.

Q:  How does Cafe Yoto fit into the fabric of the North Loop? What’s your favorite part about working in this neighborhood?

A:  I feel that Cafe Yoto is a wonderful new neighborhood lunch addition, afternoon cafe hangout spot, or a place to have a bite to eat with family or friends before an event or show. The best part about Cafe Yoto is there are no real rules about How to Yoto. You can come in for dine in or takeout and we will make it for you quickly and with care.

Eel Temaki

Q:  What’s your go-to order on the menu?

A:  It's so hard to choose, but the items I order the most are the Spicy Tuna Donburi and the Ebi Shiso. 

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

A:  Please follow us on Instagram or come on in!

Paula Chesley, Candidate for Minneapolis Park Board, District 4

Editor's note: Via a July 2nd e-newsletter. Sharing candidate announcements does not constitute an endorsement by Mill City Times.

I’m Paula Chesley and I’m running for Park Board in District 4.

Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to connect with MPRB Police Chief Jason Ohotto. I know safety in our parks is top of mind for people – in my survey about our parks, every respondent has listed it as one of their top five priorities. Hence I’ve been proactively learning about safety in our parks and what that means for people. Chief Ohotto is a lovely person and hastened to add that he would be happy to talk with any candidate or resident. He has worked with MPRB since he was 14 and has a wealth of knowledge about the parks, not only around safety issues. If it weren’t adding to his already busy schedule, I would recommend you spend some time with him! With Chief Ohotto’s permission, here is a summary of our conversation.

Chief Ohotto offered the perspective that access to parks means not only physical proximity, but also a feeling of safety – that no matter how close a park is, people won’t go if they don’t feel safe. We talked about parks that have the most safety issues, both in District 4 and elsewhere. He mentioned that Boom Island Park and Folwell Park, the sights of recent tragic deadly shootings, had not been places with elevated safety issues. We talked about how ultimately we as a society need upstream solutions for our mental-health crisis and gun violence epidemic – that guns are too easily available, and that the police can be as responsive as possible, but that that won’t solve the problem of easy access.

Chief Ohotto also mentioned safety in terms of mobility around the parks, an issue is near and dear to many District 4 residents. One issue I’ve heard from many residents is that with e-bikes and scooters, there are many vehicles on park trails that go above the park speed limit of 10 miles per hour. I asked if posting more speed limit signs would be helpful – he said no, because what would then be needed would be enforcement, and we don’t have the resources to do that. We talked about how more people are using park trails for commuting – going to work, shopping, etc. – and how to accommodate these newer uses of parkways in a way that’s safe for everyone.

Many – but not all – of you have told me you are less interested in getting new amenities and parks than in maintaining what we have. Chief Ohotto reminded me that when we get new amenities, we need to contribute to their upkeep and servicing – and that people already feel MPRB resources are stretched thin. For example, there are 35 sworn Park Police officers, but when I asked him what the ideal number would be, he said that 50 officers would fit what the community is wanting from our Park Police.

We talked about mental health resources for the Park Police and Park staff. While a focus on mental health has improved in the Park Police, Chief Ohotto talked about the constant toll, sometimes acute, sometimes on the back burner, of being with people in moments of distress. I have many times reflected on jobs that are public-facing and how I’ve had jobs both allowing me to see people in their best light – and at their most challenging moments. I imagine being a police officer has much of both, but quite a bit of the latter.

I will be participating in a Parks Police ride-along soon as part of my commitment to fostering safety in our parks. I’ll also be out and about in District 4 parks and in the community, so please let me know if there are any events or meetings you’d like me to come to!

Finally, I have a special ask for donations as we approach the city-wide convention on July 19. The costs for this convention are quite high due to the venue – Target Center – and the added cost of security given recent political violence and the heartbreaking deaths of Melissa and Mark Hortman. Any little bit helps, so please consider donating today! We would be so grateful.

Be That Neighbor Announces Hope 612, July 19 at Theatre in the Round

Local non-profit, Be That Neighbor, in partnership with Theatre in the Round, will present a staged reading of the original play, Hope 612, on July 19. This play was written Mill City Players alum. The reading will be followed by a community conversation. They would love for you to attend and be part of this discussion! Tickets.