Mystery on the Mississippi - Solve a Crime Aboard the Jonathan Padelford!

Article by Becky Fillinger

No, it’s not a Dateline episode. It’s interactive, educational, fun mystery theater – performed on the Mississippi River. We talked to Anna Waugh, Interim Executive Director for the Mississippi Park Connection, and Tim Wick, co-writer of the show, to learn more about the plot and how to sign up for the cruise. 

Q:  Congratulations on bringing back the murder mystery on the Mississippi River.

Anna:  Thank you. Mystery on the Mississippi has become a staple of the summer season. Featuring the incredible Fearless Comedy, we are excited to share another interactive murder mystery adventure with all of your readers this year. This year's setting is the 1980s, and participants are encouraged to dust off their best of the '80s and wear something radical! Part cruise aboard the accessible Jonathan Padelford, part play, part whodunnit - there is nothing quite like this event.

There are only three dates left for the show this year, so check out parkconnection.org/events to register early before tickets are gone!

Anna Waugh

Q:  Could you give us a brief synopsis of the mystery we'll be solving?

Tim WickTim:  The show is set in 1988 at the celebration of the establishment of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. A group of people responsible for the creation of the park have gathered to celebrate their work. Unfortunately, there is a party crasher who isn't all that popular and someone dislikes him just a little bit more than the others. The Acting Park Superintendent Chip Mather and Law Enforcement Ranger Casper Hogart need to figure out who committed the crime before the boat returns to the dock and they need all the help they can get!

Q:  What ages are welcome on the cruise?

Tim:  The script is appropriate for all ages.

Q:  For first timers, how do we interact with the performers? Any other tips for us?

Tim:  If the performers are not involved in a scene, it is completely appropriate to talk with them and ask questions about whatever you like. It doesn't even need to be about the crime.

The best advice I can give people is if we clearly establish an alibi for a character, they didn't commit the crime. A lot of people give us credit for being cleverer than we actually are.

And while our actors do a lot of research into their character, they don't know everything. A real lawyer is likely to know more about the law than someone playing a lawyer. That's not a clue.

There are a lot of scenes and no one can see them all because some will happen at the same time. It's best to work with other people to share information.

Finally, don't forget to enjoy the river! There is enough time to pay attention to the show and experience the park that brought us all together.

Performance dates and times:

Thursday, July 27

6:30-6:50PM: Guests arrive for check in at Harriet Island

7:00 PM: Boat Launch

Thursday, August 17

6:30-6:50PM: Guests arrive for check in at Harriet Island

7:00PM: Boat Launch

Thursday, September 21

6:30-6:50PM: Guests arrive for check in at Harriet Island

7:00PM: Boat Launch

Order tickets here.

Large Crowd at Day 1 at Taste of Minnesota

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Thank you to Ric Rosow for submitting these photo from the well attended first day of Taste of Minnesota. 

The Fabulous Armadillos

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The roof of a highly decorated car. A number of ornately adorned cars were lined up just inside the Washington Avenue entry point.

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The crowd on the mall 

July 1 at the Mill City Farmers Market

New this week from the Mill City Farmers Market - blueberries, cauliflower, patty-pans and green beans. Finally arrived early enough to get a container of the always perfect strawberries from Twin Cities Berry Company.

The best example I've ever seen of someone who knows how to precisely pack their market purchases!

 

I Am More Than You Think I Am: Genet Gessert

By Claudia Kittock

Have you ever been to a concert and heard the MacPhail Community Youth Choir (MCYC), directed by J.D. Steele, accompanied by Fred Steele? This group of young people sing with amazing heart and will touch your soul. You will always be entertained by the soloists that step forward. Genet Gessert is one of the incredible singers.

J.D. loves to tell people that he knows things are going to continue to get better because of the young people of MCYC. Once you spend time with them, you will understand what he means. In a recent interview, Genet explained how she wants to change the world and make it better. She hopes to study neuroscience so that she can understand how emotional intelligence works and to use that to change things for the better through possible work with the government.
 
Ah, and her voice! When Genet sings, every cell in your body listens. Her heart and her soul are infused in every note. How does this 15 year old do that? Here’s what she told me.
 
Music has always been a part of her life and she has spent her whole life singing. She plays the piano and guitar and composes music without being able to read music. It’s just there, in her head, all the time. When someone in class turns a page of a book, Genet hears 10 different rhythms in that simple act. Every sound turns into music in her head. When she met J.D. at the very first rehearsal, she said she found the other half of her soul. She had the voice, but she needed the confidence and ability to use it onstage and that’s what she got.
 
Genet is a recipient of the Sallie Steele Birdsong Scholarship, which owes its name to the remarkable mother of the Steele family. She raised six musical children on her own following the death of her husband. This scholarship, created and funded by Be That Neighbor, provides youth with the opportunity to take vocal lessons. It started during the pandemic, and J.D. began by giving vocal lessons online. Now he uses every venue he needs to provide vocal education to young people like Genet.
 
Genet told me that she resonates with Sallie Steele Birdsong and her incredible ability to keep going, no matter how many times life knocked her down. She understands the emotional piece of picking yourself up and going forward. Genet wants the world to know not to judge her by what people see. As she so wonderfully said, “Don’t stereotype me. Listen to my music and get to know me through that. I am more than you think I am.” She is all of that and more. Watch for this young woman and listen to her music. You won’t be sorry.
 
The Sallie Steele Birdsong Scholarship is funded by our generous donors. If you would like to help us continue and expand this program, please donate at https://www.givemn.org/organization/Be-That-Neighbor.

Doug Argue Retrospective at Weisman Art Museum

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Doug ArgueMinnesota native son Doug Argue has been producing art since the 1980s. Weisman Art Museum (WAM) has put together a retrospective of his work, DOUG ARGUE: LETTERS TO THE FUTURE, on display until September 10. He lives in New York City now, but came back to Minneapolis to launch this fascinating exhibit. We caught up with Argue and curator Elizabeth Armstrong to learn more about the body of work displayed.

Armstrong explained, “He was always doing his own thing, right from the start. I curated his first museum show at the Walker Art Center in 1985. Everyone else was consumed with abstract or conceptual art – not Doug. He was different from his contemporaries.”

You’ll see a roughly chronological depiction of Argue’s works – including wildly imaginative nature and biological/fantasy paintings, paintings of fathers and sons (reminiscent of his childhood on Battle Lake, MN) and enormous canvases of thousands of "tiny, interlocking shapes and lines that suggest the dynamism and fluidity of nature." Forty-one works are in the retrospective covering 4 distinct time periods in the artist’s life.

Argue with curator Elizabeth Armstrong

I asked Argue what he would like to impart to visitors to the exhibit. “I’d want the viewers to experience the arc of my different works and how it changed over time – you’ll see the mental leaps between things.”

Armstrong calls out the uniqueness and precision of Argue’s work. “Take a look at One Fish Follows Another.  Each fish is different in scale and scope – Doug’s work is the exact opposite of what Artificial Intelligence can do.”

Fish School 2021

Argue’s “untitled” chicken factory painting

Argue told me that the famous Chicken painting took three years to paint and to notice that the expression on each chicken’s face is different. What was the inspiration? Argue told me that he read Franz Kafka’s work, Investigations of a Dog, where the story is told from the dog’s point of view. The dog’s thoughts in the story about how he could get food inspired Argue to close his eyes and to consider the questions of how and where did he get food. The Chicken painting was launched!

As always, admission to WAM, 333 E River Road, is free of charge. This is a must see exhibit – jot it into your summer to-do list. There is a companion book, Doug Argue: Letters to the Future (Skira, 2020), edited by Claude Peck, containing more than 150 full-color plates of work spanning four decades of Argue’s career. Copies are available for purchase here.

Mill City Commons Celebrates 15 Years of Creating Community and Connection for Adults 55+

Mill City Commons (MCC) is celebrating its 15th year as a vibrant membership organization, supporting and enriching the lives of adults aged 55+. Over the past decade and a half, Mill City Commons has transformed the lives of its members by providing a lively community, fostering social connections, and offering a wide array of enriching programs and activities.

“Since its inception in 2008, Mill City Commons has been a beacon of social engagement, educational opportunities, and support for adults in their 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and beyond,” said founding member, Marcia Townley. “What started as a vision to create a vibrant village-like community has blossomed into a thriving network of individuals who embrace the importance of staying connected, engaged and enjoying life at every stage.”

One of the key pillars of Mill City Commons is its ability to combat social isolation, a prevalent issue among older adults. Through a diverse range of social events, educational workshops, cultural outings and wellness programs, members find ample opportunities to forge new friendships, discover common interests, and build a strong support network. The result is a vibrant and connected community that brings joy and a sense of belonging to all who participate.

To commemorate the milestone, Mill City Commons hosted a party for members, received a proclamation from Mayor Frey, and even lit the 35W Bridge in its signature colors of green and pink. In addition, the organization has embarked on a brand and website refresh.

35W Bridge lit in honor of Mill City Commons                           Photo, Ric Rosow

“Mill City Commons continues to shape the landscape of aging in our community and we are incredibly proud to reach this significant milestone," said Margaret McDonald, Executive Director at Mill City Commons. “Celebrating 15 years is a testament to the dedication and passion of our members and the lasting friendships, personal growth, and positive impact we have collectively achieved.”

As Mill City Commons looks ahead to the future, the organization remains committed to its core mission of building community through social, cultural, recreational and educational programs and connecting members to resources needed to maintain healthy and vibrant lives.

“We just joined MCC a few months ago when we moved to Plymouth,” said Kathie Murphy. We have enjoyed getting acquainted with other members and all the opportunities that the MCC calendar presents.”

June 30 Bridge 9 Improvement Project Update

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

Beginning in July 2022, the City of Minneapolis started making repairs and improvements to Bridge 9, Pier 5.

Latest project news

2023 Construction Phase

Rehabilitation work in 2023 is focused on the easterly end of the bridge.  The work includes rehabilitation of the bridge seat at the easterly abutment (abutment 1), rehab of the most easterly bridge pier (pier 2), and stabilization of the bluff face between pier 2 and abutment 1.  Rehabilitation work consists of removal of degraded concrete from the structures and degraded rock from the bluff and wrapping the remaining sound concrete and rock with a layer of reinforced concrete.  Concrete on the bluff will be colored to match the existing rock and sprayed on to follow the contours of the bluff.

View from under the bridge of seat degradation

The 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.

View of the surface approaching bridge 9 looking westerly

Schedule

Construction activities this season started in April of 2023. The scheduled completion date is December 1, 2023.  The contractor is currently anticipating substantial completion by the end of September 2023. 

Traffic Impact

The bridge will always remain open to bicyclists and pedestrians this season; however, passage widths will be restricted in the work area.  Bicyclists are advised to walk their bikes through this area.

Current work

For the month of June, the following construction operations were performed: Placement of bluff reinforcement anchors and reinforcement for bluff face concrete encasement (commonly referred to as shotcrete), excavation and foundation preparation for pier 2 encasement, anchor, and rebar placement for the bridge seat at the abutment and cap of pier 2 and associated concrete pours, and placement of reinforcement forming for encasement of the pier and pouring the first lift.

Pouring first lift of pier encasement

Top of bluff prepared for stabilization with shotcrete

Coming up

Completion of shotcrete on the bluff and continuation of forming and pouring pier 2 encasement.

Stay Connected

For more details and to sign up for email updates please visit the Bridge 9 Improvement project webpage.

Project Engineer: Petru Vizoli, 612-673-2368, Petru.Vizoli@minneapolismn.gov

Stone Arch Bridge to be Closed Overnight June 30-July 5

Via a June 29 e-announcement from the Minneapolis Park and Rec Board:

Stone Arch Bridge overnight closure start time moved to 10 pm for June 30-July 4 holiday weekend

In response to community requests, the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board has shifted the start of the overnight closure of the Stone Arch Bridge to 10 pm, versus 8 pm, starting this Friday. The Stone Arch Bridge will close overnight (10 pm-6 am) beginning at 10 pm on Friday, June 30 and ending at 6 am, Wednesday, July 5. It will be closed to both pedestrian and bicycle traffic. During this period of overnight closures, the bridge will be open from 6 am-10 pm.

Last year, large Fourth of July gatherings in riverfront parks and neighborhoods created unsafe, chaotic situations. This proactive measure will help park staff and public safety agencies better manage crowds and safety during a very busy time for riverfront parks and neighborhoods. Riverfront trail users will be detoured to the Hennepin Avenue Bridge.

Open Eye Theatre Presents INVISIBLE FENCES - A Fantastical Theater Experience Set to Music!

July 20 – 23

Created and performed by Kevin Kling & Gaelynn Lea

Open Eye Theatre has announced INVISIBLE FENCES, a new collaboration by singer-songwriter Gaelynn Lea and storyteller-playwright Kevin Kling. They will combine their talents in an original musical fable, which weaves together storytelling and song to create a unique theatrical experience. This production blends their internationally-renowned skills in music and storytelling to create an intimate show that is rich in the wit and wisdom inherent in Disability Culture.

Largroff (Gaelynn Lea) is a platypus who was born with a spontaneous genetic mutation that caused her to sprout wings, horns and a snout. Grasshopper (Kevin Kling) lost two of his limbs as a nymph, and is on a quest to get to the city for a peaceful retirement. Together this unlikely pair embarks on a journey where they come face-to-face with different worlds, dangers and dreams. This musical play touches on identity, disability and the stories we tell ourselves. Featuring Kling’s signature poetic word-play, and an array of songs written and sung by Lea, who plays her violin accompanied by Jeremy Ylvisaker on guitar.

This show will be heavy on fun and adventure, while also centering accessibility and Disability Culture. Every performance will have ASL interpretation as well as projected captioning. There will also be narrated audio descriptions at the beginning of each scene to help blind and low-vision audience members better place themselves in the worlds Lea and Kling are creating. 

INVISIBLE FENCES also features the talents of Claire Looker (costumes) and Claudia Errickson (lighting). Andy Slater is contributing sound art. The show will be directed by Tim White.

For the last three years, Open Eye Theatre has partnered with Kling & Company to co-present the Visionary Voices Series, which showcases extraordinary storytellers with unique and under-represented voices. Recent presentations have featured Dovie Thomason (HOW THE WILD WEST WAS SPUN and ADVENTURES OF AN INDIGENOUS SPACE CADET) and Allison Broeren (FIRE IN MY VEINS). Now Kevin Kling partners with Gaelynn Lea on an original story that injects theatrical flourishes of design, costume and lyrical music. 

Open Eye has invested in making its stage truly accessible for all artists with the recent installation of a wheelchair lift.

About the Artists

Gaelynn Lea is a sought-after public speaker about Disability Rights and accessibility in the arts. She has shared her perspective on PBS NewsHour, On Being with Krista Tippett, The Moth Radio Hour, NowThis, The Science of Happiness Podcast, and via two widely-viewed TEDx Talks. She is currently working on a memoir about her touring adventures and disability advocacy. Learn more at violinscratches.com. After winning NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest in 2016, she has captivated audiences around the world with her haunting original songs and traditional fiddle tunes. Gaelynn Lea has opened for Wilco, The Decemberists, LOW, and the industrial rock supergroup Pigface. Most recently, she composed the music for Macbeth on Broadway, starring Daniel Craig and Ruth Negga.

Kevin Kling, is a writer, performer, storyteller and disability advocate. Known for his humorous stories and thoughtful philosophizing, Kevin has performed in libraries, school gymnasiums, The Kennedy Center, Off-Broadway, regional theaters and storytelling festivals around the world.  Kevin was featured in the Emmy Award winning PBS documentary "Kevin Kling: Lost and Found". He has performed regularly at Open Eye, including GREATEST HITS & JUICY BITS, CHICKEN SHIP, TENDER MERCIES, FOUR DIRECTIONS, and many more.

Tickets:
$26 – General Admission / $15 – Students / $10 – Economic Accessibility

A limited number of $10 Economic Accessibility tickets are available online for all performances. If not sold out, a limited number of pay-as-able tickets will be available at the door. Tickets available at openeyetheatre.org.

Performance Schedule:

Thursday, July 20, 7:30pm

Friday, July 21, 7:30pm

Saturday, July 22, 7:30pm

Sunday, July 23, 2:00pm

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Ages 8 and up.

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Every performance will have ASL interpretation as well as projected captioning. There will also be narrated audio descriptions at the beginning of each scene. Contact Open Eye at boxoffice@openeyetheatre.org or 612-874-6338 for accessibility information and requests.

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Open Eye is located at 506 East 24th Street, 2 blocks south of Franklin Ave between Portland Ave and 35W. Park for free in the Lutheran Social Services lot at 24th and Portland. 612-874-6338

Smack Shack’s Annual North Loop Crayfest Returns August 5

Smack Shack’s annual North Loop block party, Crayfest, will be held Saturday, August 5, from 12:00pm – 7:00pm. Smack Shack welcomes guests to come and enjoy the all-you-can-eat crayfish boil, burgers, and brats, plus all-you-can-enjoy beer, hurricanes, and live music from local bands.

The annual block party celebration draws over 2,000 people to the North Loop for a day of fun, food, and live music. This year’s musical guests include returning rock stars Viva Knievel, Steeling Dan and a new opener, The Vibe. It wouldn’t be Crayfest without the crayfish eating contest that takes place at the event. Pre-qualifying rounds begin in July at several local breweries including Fulton, Indeed and Modist. All contestants receive a free Crayfest ticket and Smack Shack swag for participating in the prelims. Four winners from each brewery will move on to the final contest at Crayfest. The preliminary contest dates will be announced on social media for guests to sign-up and participate in the coming month.

“We are grateful to be in business for the last ten years and able to host this event every year in the North Loop,” said Kevin Fitzgerald, Co-owner of Smack Shack. “This event lets us celebrate and enjoy the Minnesota summer.”

Smack Shack will feature their signature crayfish boil at Crayfest. This fan favorite is served with crayfish (or crawfish) corn on the cob, andouille sausage, and potatoes. For less adventurous eaters, hamburgers and brats are also available. Attendees may also enjoy a selection of local beer, cider or Smack Shack’s signature cocktail, the Hurricane, made with rum, pineapple, orange and cranberry juices, and a splash of grenadine.

Smack Shack is dedicated to serving sustainable seafood. “We partner with local companies to fish out the invasive species from Minnesota Lakes,” said Josh Thoma, co-owner of Smack Shack. “We continue to source and use sustainable, farm-raised crayfish to keep the tradition and the Crayfest celebration going each year.”

Tickets for Crayfest are $60 in advance ($95 at the door). New this year is a Crayfest 6-pack for $300. Tickets can be purchased online.

A Message From Ward 3 Council Member Rainville re: 4th of July Weekend Safety

Many of you in the 3rd Ward have contacted the office asking about security plans along the Riverfront on the 4th of July.

The Park Police are at full staff that night and will be patrolling Boom Island Park and both sides of the Stone Arch Bridge.

The Mpls Police have a large amount of extra officers dedicated to patrolling the Mill District and if needed will use their squad cars to block streets if cars are racing and shooting fireworks and guns from their cars like last year.

The Park Board has not scheduled a fireworks show for the night of July 4th. Rest assured there is a public safety plan if violence erupts as it did last year.

Please call my office with questions. Thank you,

Councilman Rainville
612/673-2203 

Made With Fireworks! Alexandria Mooney-Jones Opening Reception, July 6 at Tres Leches Art Gallery

Made with Fireworks! Art of Alexandria Mooney Jones

Opening Reception: July 6, 5 - 9pm

On view in July, Fridays 12-4pm, Saturdays 12-5pm

Tres Leches Art Gallery, Northrup King Building

Alexandria Mooney-Jones uses fireworks to create beauty and excitement on canvas. No paint...just fireworks! We celebrate this unique art form and are showcasing the work of the Firework Artist this July! Visit us this July First Thursday to discover the fun and magic behind the art.

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Artist statement:

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"Using only lit, burning fireworks, I begin each piece as part artist, part mad scientist. Fireworks as a medium are volatile and unpredictable. All techniques and processes are self-discovered. My first layer is the least controllable of my techniques. Reacting to that layer, I make decisions about composition, selecting areas to mask or burn. Color selection is vague; a “red” could present as burgundy, fire engine red or pink, depending on my distance to the canvas, as well as the dispersion rate. As the fireworks burn, organic dye is vaporized into colored smoke; depending on the technique I am attempting to achieve, the smoke is trapped or manipulated around and through things set on the canvas for different effects. Unexpected compositional effects, such as burn holes and singed areas, happen when the fireworks misfire or expel the contents onto the canvas in a ball of fire. Although unintentional, these incidents become part of my composition-you cannot erase a burn. I am attempting to control the uncontrollable. My work is at the mercy of explosives and fire. Fireworks, as a medium, create a tension that pits celebration against trauma. And in the strongest pieces, neither gives way to the other."

There will be an Artist Talk at 7pm during the July 6 Opening Reception.

 

Location: 

Tres Leches Art Gallery

Northrup King Building

Studios 171-173

1500 Jackson Street NE

Minneapolis, MN 55413 

35W Bridge Rainbow of Color Celebrates Pride Weekend

Submitted by Ric Rosow

Saturday night, June 24th, the 35W Bridge was a rainbow of colors for Pride Weekend celebrating the LGBTQ community. I photographed the bridge late that night.

35W Bridge Celebrates Pride Week by Ric Rosow

My daughter often kindheartedly chides me about how many photographs I actually need to take of the 35W bridge. The answer to that question is "more than I have right now." During any given year I am not here for every event the colors of the bridge celebrate. So I photograph the bridge when its colors celebrates an important occasion and when it looks particularly lovely. In addition, the skyline behind the bridge evolves and changes. Life is not static, nor is this city's skyline. It constantly changes and I want to turn each new look into a work of fine art.

You can see more of my work www.ricrosowphotography.com and Tres Leches Art Gallery. If you are interested in this photograph or another image I have on my website please DM me. #35WBridge  #Prideweek #Rainbowofcolors #Bridge #cityscape #minneapolis #sky #colorfullbridge #landscapephotography #ricrosowphotography #Treslechesartgallery #MNSmallBuisness #NEMAAMN #ShopLocalArtOnline #MeetMinneapolis #Mplsart #GiftArt #BestofNEMpls 

Small Business Spotlight: Clay Oven

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Diljit KhosaThe Mill District has a new restaurant for all of us who love Indian food. We spoke to Diljit Khosa (DJ), the owner of the Clay Oven, about his background in the restaurant business and several items that are a must try on the menu. Make plans to visit this gem at 1027 Washington Avenue S. 

Q:  Please tell us your background as a restaurateur. 

A:  I have been in the restaurant industry for over 20 years. I opened my first restaurant India Palace (Roseville) and very quickly fell in love with the restaurant industry. I have since then expanded to several other locations of other Indian restaurants and most recently Clay Oven!

Q:  Please describe your menu to our readers – what will we experience?

A:  Our menu is a testament to the exquisite flavors and aromas that arise from traditional clay oven cooking. The dishes are carefully prepared and cooked to perfection in our clay ovens, known as tandoors. We believe in preserving the heritage of tandoor cooking and wanted to bring that exceptional experience to the Cities. Our menu showcases a diverse range of dishes, each thoughtfully crafted to highlight the unique qualities of clay oven cooking.

Q:  One portion of the Clay Oven menu is devoted to Street Foods of India. Please tell us about this idea. 

 A:  India is renowned for its bustling streets filled with food vendors offering an array of flavorsome and quick bites. We were eager to bring that culture here and share it with the Minneapolis community. You can explore options such as the iconic "Pani Puri," which features crispy hollow puris filled with a tangy tamarind water and a potato filling. By offering this dedicated section of our menu, we aim to transport you to the lively streets of India, where the aroma of spices fills the air and the vibrant street food scene brings people together in celebration of flavors.

Pani Puri

Chicken Tikka

Q:  Everyone has their favorite Indian foods that they return to time and again – for me it is the Masala Dosa. What is one food you hope diners will venture to try at Clay Oven?   

A:  My favorite dish has always been Chicken Tikka, you can find this dish under the "From the Clay Oven" section on the menu. All these dishes are made directly inside the clay oven so you will never find the smoked flavor anywhere else - the dishes are then served on hot sizzlers. The marinated chicken is skewered and cooked to perfection in a clay oven. As it cooks, the heat from the clay oven imparts a smoky and charred essence to the chicken, enhancing its taste. The result is a dish that boasts a delightful combination of juicy and tender chicken with a bold and aromatic flavor profile.

Q:  Do you have daily specials? Happy Hours? 

A:  At the Clay Oven, we strive to provide our guests with a consistent and exceptional dining experience. While we do not offer daily specials or happy hours, we ensure that our regular menu is carefully curated to showcase a wide range of flavorful and delicious dishes.

Q:  How may we follow your news?  

A:  To stay updated with our latest news and updates, we invite you to follow us on Instagram. You can find us by searching for our handle "@MnClayOven". For personal inquires you can contact us as G.Clayoven@gmail.com or catering at Dj.Clayoven@gmail.com! 

June 24 at the Mill City Farmers Market

New items in this weeks Mill City Farmers Market shopping basket: Juneberries from Prairie Hollow Farm, amaranth from Mhonpaj’s Garden, fennel from GVY Fresh Produce, spinach-based juice from Krishna’s Delight, raspberries from Green Earth Growers, Twilight Forest candle from PaChia Blooms, Turmeric Ginger Golden Milk Mix from Holistic Health Farms and Ginger Melon juice from Pure Ginger For You.

REMINDER: Vote for the Mill City Farmers Market in the USA Today 10 Best Farmers Market Readers Choice 2023. As of June 25, MCFM was in 4th place, but you can move them up to #1 by casting a vote everyday thru the end of this month. (Cool side note - the photo USA Today used for the MCFM was taken by Mill City Times!)

Thank you to the Downtown Minneapolis Neighborhood Associaton (DMNA) for being a MCFM Sponsor.

You now have the option of purchasing a Krishna’s Delight drink in a bottle, which you can bring back and have refilled. I love this new option, because it's awkard for me to enjoy a drink in a cup while I'm pushing around a cart and taking photos. Now I can put a bottle of my favorite green juice in my cart to enjoy later at home.

First raspberries of the season!

Pam at Prairie Hollow Farm ceases to amaze me with the variety of items she offers. On this trip, I was introduced to Juneberries (the little orbs on the right that look like tiny blueberries) - incredibly sweet.

Top 10 Reasons to Attend Taste of Minnesota 2023

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Taste of Minnesota has been on hiatus since 2015 but it is coming back in a big way! We asked festival organizer, Taylor Carik, for the top 10 reasons to attend this festival in downtown Minneapolis. Check out the reasons below. Come on – food trucks, musical acts, all day wrestling - I’m convinced!

1: The Headliners

Each day of Taste of Minnesota culminates with a big show from national acts. For this year’s relaunch, there’s two exciting performances: On July 2nd, alternative mainstays Third Eye Blind take the stage with their many hits, and on July 3rd, Big Boi from Outkast brings a little bit of Hotlanta hip-hop to Minnesota. 

2: The Openers

Right before the headliners take the stage, there’s exciting national openers, too! On July 2nd, Twin Cities natives and emo-pop darlings Motion City Soundtrack make a rare hometown appearance. Then on July 3rd, pop-country singer Uncle Kracker returns with his radio hits and new popular single.

Nixta Taqueria

Pierogi2Gogi

Red Wagon Pizza

3: All of the Food Options

Previous Taste of Minnesotas were known for their fair-style food. This year’s event features the original cheese curds and lemonade from Tastes past, but also a variety of notable food trucks and food activations all over the festival. 

4: The Chefs

Along with the food trucks, Taste of Minnesota also brings to Nicollet Mall some pop-ups from big name Twin Cities chefs like Red Wagon Pizza’s Peter Campbell, Nixta Taqueria's Gustavo Romero, Oceanaire’s Scott Nielsen, Soul Bowl’s Gerard Klass, and Animales’ Jon Wipfli. 

Surly Take Five Justa Taste THC Tonic Lime5: The Beverages

Minnesota beers anyone? Unlike most festivals, Taste of Minnesota features a variety of drink options, from a wide selection of beers from Surly Brewing and Grain Belt, to seltzers and canned cocktail drinks and wines, to N/A beverages and more.  

6: The Limited Edition ‘Just A Taste’ THC Bev

For festival fans who like to go the THC bev route, Taste of Minnesota will feature Surly’s Take Five THC beverage, but also an introductory low-dose THC beverage called ‘Just A Taste’ made especially for the party.  

7: The Jazz88 + Singer-Songwriter Stages

To showcase the area’s top notch jazz talent, Taste of Minnesota and 88.5FM Jazz88 have teamed up to showcase an entire stage dedicated to Jazz and Jazzy performers. Even more, toward the North Entrance, the singer-songwriter stage entertains festival goers throughout the afternoon. 

8: Party Downtown

You live in or around one of the best big cities in the region, why not take advantage of the city setting! Taste of Minnesota takes over the recently redone Nicollet Avenue that combines green spaces with sculptures. During Taste of Minnesota, you'll see magical performances, get up close with adorable animals, go on a treasure hunt and more. 

9: The Art Market

Minneapolis-St.Paul is home to many different top notch artists, an one area of the festival will be dedicated to showcasing different artists who have their paintings, sculptures, jewelry, accessories, and more to sell.

Colt Cabana

10: Wrasslin’ All Day

Once a hot bed of professional wrestling, Minnesota is again one of the best spots to take in some face-smashing fun. This year’s Taste of Minnesota also feature the superstars of F1rst Wrestling in and out of the ring all day long.

Eventbrite Registration Entry is FREE. If you forget to register ahead of time, a QR code will be available at the gate each day. Entry points are Washington Ave S/Nicollet Mall OR 5th Street S/Nicollet Mall.

Find all the details at Taste of Minnesota, Facebook and Eventbrite.

Get To Know the Mill City Farmers Market Team, Part 3

Article by Becky Fillinger

Jenny Breen, Market Chef

Did you know that the Mill City Farmers Market (MCFM) has Market Chefs who prepare delicious food using what’s available that week? Meet Jenny Breen, a longtime food justice advocate, culinary master and innovative health educator. We talked to her about showcasing what’s fresh at the MCFM, her ancillary work endeavors and how to be a better food steward.

As a MCFM Market Chef, Jenny Breen has given countless demos on creative ways to use produce, cheeses, meats, heirloom beans and other items from the vendors. Photos above and below, Mill City Times

Q:  Your LinkedIn profile tells us that you use cooking education as a vehicle to address the issues of personal, public, community and environmental justice, health and sustainability. How did you become interested in cooking as a way to address food and environmental injustice?   

A:  Great question. It's a long and twisted story, starting with a year I spent living/working on a Kibbutz in Israel during college. Living outside the Western world, in a true socialist setting, while working on the land was amazing - living as a Jew in a country fraught with oppression was distressing. I returned to the U.S. confused, and shocked by what I experienced as excessive consumption that most (white, privileged) people seemed to believe was their right to live this way. Somehow this all translated to food for me - first in my own body - I consumed as little as possible, losing weight and wearing tattered clothes. Ultimately, back in Minneapolis, I discovered ways to live out my values through food. I worked at the Seward Cafe, where I learned about the local food system - the people producing food, how it got to us, why it mattered and how to honor that story by putting my heart into the preparation and feeding of said food, while telling that story to others.

Q:  You have many endeavors – Chef at the Mill City Farmers Market, Chef and Culinary Nutritionist Instructor at the U, food systems and food justice consultant, etc. Please give us an idea of how you keep all these balls in the air. 

A:  And I used to own a catering company! I no longer have the catering company, but am a food systems and nutrition educator/consultant - so in addition to teaching 3 classes at the U, I’m currently partnering with M Health Fairview, and Hennepin Health Care in their 'food is medicine’ work. As for the juggling, it is simply how I operate. I am (to many people's surprise) an introvert, but an educator and networker at heart. So, in my mind pretty much all the work I do is connected, I am sharing the same message in a different context or setting, perhaps with a different audience, but surprisingly mostly with the same questions, concerns, beliefs and skills. My work and life blend together much of the time - and food is a thread throughout all of it. This is why I love my work, because it is connected to every person, every community, every culture and every system. While there is much work to do to align values of equity and justice, and to re-build the food system, I think the more we make these connections, the more successful we'll be. I also happen to be incredibly efficient.

Jenny arrives early to gather fresh ingredients she'll use for her Mill City Cooks demo. Photo, Mill City Times

Q:  How often do you cook and showcase your recipes at the Mill City Farmers Market? How do you go about selecting the produce to use in your market presentations? Have you convinced reluctant shoppers to try a vegetable they’ve never eaten?   

A:  I am not at the market as much as I'd like to be :). I am there about once a month this summer, along with my friends and chef colleagues Nettie Colon and Beth Jones. As for selecting the produce, I know generally what will be there, so I'll have an idea - for example last time I was there it was early June, but super-hot, so I knew there would be lots of greens and herbs, and I didn't want to turn on the heat. I made a chimichurri and radish and snap pea 'salsa' for a bruschetta. I do my best to use as many different vendors as possible because I see my job as highlighting and promoting them. My goal is to get as many people as possible to buy as much as possible from as many farmers as possible! Yes, I've definitely convinced reluctant shoppers to try things and more importantly, I've shown a lot of parents that kids have palates and to let them taste stuff!  

Q:  Your cookbook, Cooking Up the Good Life, was released in 2011. Do you have plans to update it or release another cookbook? 

A:  I definitely have plans, and an outline and a vision for another cookbook. It will focus more on “food stories” and the stories behind our food, but also the incredibly important relationship between human and environmental health...and how delicious food can be a part of that. As efficient as I am, I might need to take a little 'work break' to actually get it done though :)

Q:  Please give us your advice, as individuals, on being better stewards of sustainable food systems.

A:  Our food choices matter. They matter for our health and the health of the community, the farmers and producers and animals, and the planet. While our current system is inequitable and often makes 'healthy food' inaccessible, those of us who have the privilege and resources to take time to be informed and intentional, must engage and focus on the work of food justice, until everyone can start to eat in a way that supports and regenerates us and the planet. This has to be a priority and it takes a commitment. I help people figure out what this looks like on an individual, or organizational level. 

Q:  How may we follow your news?

A:  My website, transformingthetable.com (it is being updated - and will look even better soon, but you can still find me there). Also, my email, jennybroccoli@gmail.com, is the way to reach me directly.

Gamut Gallory Announces Annual Open Call Exhibition, The Periphery of Power, July 15 - August 18

Gamut Gallory's annual Call-4-Work (C4W) exhibition is not a show that influences what art should be. Instead, the chosen guest curator brings their unique perspective and interpretation of the submitted works ranging the full “Gamut” of visual media. When Esther Callahan accepted the invite to curate this year’s C4W:2023, she went in as a blank canvas and let the artwork choose her, empowering the 254 artists to lead the way through all 1,076 submissions. Through our guest curator’s lens and perspective, this body of work presented the theme, The Periphery of Power.

This year’s group exhibit will feature 45 artworks from 44 artists, 33 of which have never been exhibited at Gamut Gallery. The pieces Callahan chose convey her vision of art as a vehicle of agency and power.

C4W:2023 Features: Andy Jacobs, Becky Roberts, Ben DiNino, Brian Britigan, Briana Auel, Brooke Bartholomew, Caitlin Rose, Christopher Jones, CL Martin, Daniel Allyn Lee, Desirée Forgét, Devin Newby, Dustin Steuck, Erin McKillip, Henry Tyson, Jennifer Chilstrom, Jess Eckerstorfer, Karen Caldwell, Kathryn Blommel, Kelly Helsinger, Kevin Bergkvist, Kristi Abbott, Lindsay Alsaker, Lorelei Beckstrom, Lucy Comer, Nick Kim, Nikolina Lazetic, Perci Chester, Peter Giebink, Renée Boynton, Samantha Rickner, Sarah Sosa, Sarah Swan-Kloos, Sarah Vanasse Miles, Sean Ferris, Sepia Edwards, Shalom Ukwesa, Shanna Allyn, Shea Maze, Steve King, Travis J Collins, Von Dickens Ulsa, Wil Natzel, Yvette Griffea-Gray

“Collectively the works are joyous and fierce, honest and intimate, encouraging a crowd-shared consciousness to sew together multiple narratives and channel a bit of revelry and reflection. Inspired by the importance of creating a space that originates from a need to delve into all sorts of wide-ranging, hot-topic issues, this exhibition references The Periphery of Power through love, social mores, gender, intimacy, beauty, materiality, maternity, and more.

This exhibition covers a range of artistic mediums, from highly detailed paintings rendered in acrylic on panels - paintings that complicate the relationship between artist and subject; beautifully emotional digital photography that denote resilience and resistance; to high fire stoneware ceramics whose visceral context embraces transformation in both the material and the conceptual.

Each selected piece is part of the fearlessly celebratory nature of the exploration of beauty, autonomy, representation, and desire, and serves as an homage to all the fragmented pieces of human beings and the central note that art has played within our collective history.” - Esther Callahan 

PUBLIC OPENING NIGHT - Saturday, July 15, 6-10pm 

• $10 pre-sale, $15 day of event, FREE for members
• Featuring 44 local and national artists, Icy Icy Baby Shaved Ice Truck & DJ Ramses
• Pre-sales available, entry will be available at the door

Returning this year, there will be two “Best in Show'' awards. One will be selected by the guest curator and the other by opening night attendees. Both winners will be awarded $100 cash and Platinum Memberships to Gamut Gallery ($400 value).

C4W:2023 The Periphery of Power ARTIST TALK - Thursday, Aug 3, 7pm

• $5 pre-sale, $10 day fo event, FREE for members
• Pre-sales coming soon
• Entry will be available at the door

C4W guest curator, Esther Callahan, moderates a conversation with CL Martin, Henry Tyson, Perci Chester, and Jessica Eckerstorfer; four artists featured in this year’s C4W:2023 exhibition, The Periphery of Power. Join us to learn about their processes, ideations, and perspectives on their bodies of work, and art as a whole.

Summer Markers Market - Saturday, July 29, 1-4pm • FREE

 Celebrate a summer day in our courtyard with amazing Twin Cities makers Alicia Speich, Jake Speich, Rock Johnsen, SNEW Ceramics, Third Daughter Restless Daughter, VCKSZ, and more! From functional glass art and cross-stitches to ceramics, jewelry, and home goods we guarantee you will not leave empty-handed.

MacPhail Center for Music is Hosting a Free Sounds of Summer Music Festival July 8 at Water Works Park

Event will feature performances by the Michael Cain Trio, J.D. Steele, other MacPhail faculty and students, plus Up Tempo! announcement 

Summer in Minnesota is the time to enjoy music in the parks and that is exactly what MacPhail Center for Music is doing as it hosts its second annual Sounds of Summer Music Festival on Saturday, July 8, from 3-7pm at Water Works at Mill Ruins Park, 425 West River Parkway.

This event, which is free and open to the public, is perfect for all ages and will feature rich, soulful and dynamic performances by MacPhail Center for Music students and faculty. Performances will include MacPhail’s premier percussion ensemble, RimShots!, student soloists and MacPhail’s Faculty Jazz Combo, followed by MacPhail’s Community Youth Choir led by Twin Cities legendary musician J.D. Steele, and headliner, the Michael Cain Trio, featuring Ted Olson and Angelo Stokes.

“We have such a vibrant music community in Minnesota, and this is one way to enjoy local music and celebrate the musicians – both well-known and established along with those who are upcoming,” said Paul Babcock, president and chief operating officer at MacPhail Center for Music. “We welcome everyone to this free and fun-filled summer event.”

In addition to listening to lively music on a summer afternoon, MacPhail Center for Music will be announcing Up Tempo!, its fundraising campaign. Up Tempo! is a $25 million fundraising campaign that will provide scholarships for children and youth, support vital new music programs and ensure access for all to MacPhail. The campaign has raised $19 million thus far and is in its final stretch of raising $6 million. 

“We have seen at MacPhail how music has the ability to transform lives and strengthen communities,” said Kyle Carpenter, MacPhail Center for Music Chief Executive Officer. “As the world experiences significant cultural and generation shifts along with music education funding challenges in schools, MacPhail Center for Music is committed to continuing its mission and increasing accessibility of music to anyone who wishes to experience the life-changing and transformational advantages of including music in their lives.”

Through its fundraising efforts, MacPhail Center for Music hopes to build on its legacy and provide even more robust music programs for the community. The funds raised will help by delivering unparalleled music learning by exemplary faculty to students of all backgrounds and abilities; developing compelling and diverse new programs through new curricula and teaching methods, and connecting students with the music most relevant to them; and broadening accessibility to ensure no student is ever turned away due to financial challenges. 

2023 Sounds of Summer Music Festival Schedule:

3-3:30pm - RimShots! MacPhail’s premier percussion ensemble

3:45-4:15pm - MacPhail Student Soloists

4:30-5:15pm - MacPhail Faculty Jazz Combo

5:30-6pm - MacPhail Community Youth Choir with JD Steele

6:00pm - Special MacPhail announcement

6:15-7pm - Michael Cain Trio

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Below are photos from the 2022 Sounds of Summer event:

Minneapolis Police Activity League (PAL) - A Discussion with Officer Krystal Scott

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided

Officer Krystal Scott reads to 3rd graders at Cityview Community School

Did you know that we have a Police Activity League in Minneapolis? It is an outstanding outreach program, headed by Officer Krystal Scott. We talked to her about the history, current programming and how trust is gained with vulnerable youth one day at a time.

Q:  What is the history of the Minneapolis Police Activity League (PAL) program?

A:  In previous years the Minneapolis PAL program was staffed with a few PAL officers, one Sergeant, and a Lieutenant for the unit. Minneapolis PAL also had families, community members and other officers volunteer their time to coach or supervise the numerous activities that PAL created. PAL focused their efforts on providing mentoring opportunities, after-school academic programming, summer programs, sporting activities, and community programs for youth between 5 and 18 years of age. PAL partnered with Minneapolis-based elementary, middle, and high schools as well as community centers to bring some of these opportunities to underserved inner-city youth. PAL often was an outlet for students to stay out of trouble as well as to give them exposure to numerous activities that they would not normally learn or have the opportunities to explore.

The PAL unit was disbanded in 2019 due to COVID, staffing shortages, and other changes within the Minneapolis Police Department. It reemerged in 2022 with a focus on providing mentorship and afterschool programming for four northside Minneapolis Elementary schools. The goal is to acquire and develop additional resources to provide increased mentorship and after-school programing in more schools, and to reestablish sporting activities, community activities and opportunities for other programs throughout the city. I believe that these efforts will provide more opportunities for individual success for the youth within the city of Minneapolis.

Officer Maya Johnson and Officer Krystal Scott read to a 1st grade classroom at Cityview Community School.

Q:  The mission of the organization is to develop and nurture strong community, youth, and Police relationships. What programs are underway currently? 

A:  I currently support four Northside Elementary schools - Lucy Craft Laney Elementary School, Cityview Community School, Hall STEM Academy and Jenny Lind Elementary School. The goal is to reestablish a strong relationship with students and a strong partnership with the schools. Together, we all seek to assist youth in reaching their full potential. PAL strives to get the youth more active in learning as well as receive the positive benefits from physical exercise. During my work days, I am present in the schools looking for opportunities to interact and participate in activities the students are involved in. I also will sit with the students during lunchtime and chat about the things they find important. I am always looking for opportunities to hand out PAL stickers to highlight and support good behavior. I will often spend the latter half of my day mentoring students and making sure that I am a support to them during playtime, homework time and downtime when they are enjoying being active and unique.

During Women’s History Month, PAL brought in a local female music artist to read Malala’s Magic Pencil and sang the song Rise Up by Rihanna. The theme of the book and music was to empower and uplift not only young girls to fight for equal rights but empower all people to fight for what was right no matter the struggle or barrier in front of them.

A Pre-K PAL participant for the Herb Brooks Foundation Hockey Clinic getting ready for her first round of skating activities.

Lt. Hand from the 4th precinct, Officer Scott and Miss Terry preparing PAL participant members for the skate of their life at the Herb Brooks Foundation Hockey Clinic.

PAL also partnered with the Herb Brooks Foundation to put on a Hockey Clinic to youth who were interested in learning about the basics of ice skating while implementing the skills of hockey. Students from the ages of 4-9 had an opportunity to skate with Minneapolis Police Officers and hockey instructors from colleges and high schools and other youth from all over the Twin Cities.

During the summer, PAL has high hopes of starting a small summer programming in partnership with the Freedom School at Cityview Community School as well as Lucy Craft Laney. PAL hopes to implement sporting activities, community activities and volunteer opportunities for students to stay active during the summer months as well for the couple of weeks they are involved in summer school. PAL will also bring forth opportunities for students to learn and play basketball at a PAL basketball clinic, learn jujitsu through some of our instructors who are part the Minneapolis Police Department training staff as well as have opportunities to participate in flag football while partnering with the Park Board. Activities are being created according to staffing and resources as we hope to share those opportunities later.

Q:  Can you share some success stories with us?  

A:  I will share one of the many success stories that have occurred since PAL became active again this last year. When I initially came to one of the schools, a particular male student was very reluctant to interact with me when he learned that I was a Police Officer and that I would be at his school interacting with students. This particular student was very hesitant about coming up to me and continued to ask if I was a police officer and if I arrested people and if I used my gun. I reassured him that the reason why I was there was to get to know him, play some games and to have fun with him. Over time and through numerous opportunities of interacting with him, I watched as his reluctance changed into him becoming more comfortable with me being around. The student even began to approach me when he would see me and we began to have more playful interactions. Eventually, every time I came to afterschool, the student would greet me with a hug and a smile. The student would ask me why I wasn’t there on other days that he had afterschool and I would explain to him that I shared time with other schools. The student stated that he wished that I was at his school and asked if he could come with me when I left. The start of that relationship showed me that with time and effort, I would be accepted and that I was in the right place.

Target Corporation partnered with the Minneapolis Police Department and the Minneapolis Community Engagement team and sponsored some of our Northside students to join in a Heroes and Helpers event at the 900 Nicollet Mall Target.

Q:  Do you collaborate with other city’s PAL programs? Is Minneapolis PAL a member of the National PAL organization?

A:  Minneapolis has not yet collaborated with other cities’ PAL programs. We are taking it one step at a time and regaining trust and rebuilding our community partnership back up with families, communities and students. However, PAL has collaborated with other community programs and businesses to bring forth opportunities for the youth within the city of Minneapolis. Minneapolis is not currently a member of National PAL but we are in the early stages of developing that partnership.   

Q:  What is a typical day for you? 

A:  A typical day for me changes from Monday-Friday. I typically start my day off answering email at my office base. I then go on the road to do office hours at one of the four schools in the morning to allow students to come in, say hello, give lots of love, hugs and fist bumps as I wish them a good productive and positive day. The students may leave with a piece of candy but most definitely a smile. I will continue my day in either staying at a particular school or transitioning to another school. I will slip into one of the students’ special classes such as Physical Education class to observe and learn the activity they are participating in and play with them. At the end of my day, I may move to a different school and participate in their afterschool activities. I usually go and sit in the lunchroom while students are having lunch to joke and talk about the day’s happenings before they break up into their afterschool groups. During afterschool, I get to participate in arts and crafts, board games, sporting activities, and help with homework or projects if they have them. One of my favorite activities that I like to do with students is guiding a competition in rap battles. At the end of the day, I leave with giggles, hugs and fist bumps, and a promise that I will bring candy the next time that I return.

During I Love to Read Month, Chief O’Hara, Minneapolis PAL, Members of the recruitment unit, CSO unit as well as other patrol officers came together to read to all students at Cityview City school in North Minneapolis.

Q:  Do you welcome volunteers from the public?

A:  I most certainly welcome volunteers, families, and other individuals from different careers to come and spend some of their time with the PAL program and PAL students. It is one of the most satisfying and important parts of my job and I guarantee that volunteers would feel the same after leaving these students. Volunteers will not only smile, but they will also get to play and positively interact with our youth.  Further, volunteers will also be fulfilled in knowing that they made the day for a child that just needs consistent love, support, extra care and an opportunity to just be a kid.

Q:  Good luck with your programs and mentoring. How may we follow your news? 

A:  PAL has recently revamped our Facebook page. We are constantly updating information about our events on this social media outlet. We highlight events and activities from the past month and future events or activities that will be coming up. If there are any questions, concerns, or inquiries I am available via my email, krystal.scott@minneapolismn.gov, for the community to receive the most current updates on happenings with PAL and PAL youth.