May | 2025 | Pillsbury United Communities

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 30, 2025

Drag Story Hour MN presents “Love Rising” – Final Episode

The journey through the Boundary Waters with Doña Pepa, Sid Sity, and Old Man Zimmer is coming to a magical close — and you won’t want to miss the grand finale of Love Rising!

Join us for the third and final episode in this joyful, interactive series designed for children ages birth to 10 and their caregivers. Through music, storytelling, and puppet play, this special performance brings nature, friendship, and imagination to life on stage.

Final Performance: Saturday, May 31, 2025

Pillsbury House + Theatre

Morning Program

10:30 AM – Art Activities

11:00 AM – Interactive Show with Doña Pepa, Sid Sity, and Old Man Zimmer

Afternoon Program

12:30 PM – Art Activities

1:00 PM – Second Interactive Show

(Please note: the 1:00 PM performance will be recorded for archival purposes.)

Spots are limited and fill up quickly — be sure to RSVP now to secure your place!

About Episode 3:

In this heartwarming final installment, the trio celebrates the power of friendship as their magical companion takes flight, spreading wonder and joy. It’s a culmination of the adventures from Episodes 1 and 2 — where helping animals and welcoming new friends led to unexpected discoveries and unforgettable moments.

Each performer brings a unique presence to the stage:

Doña Pepa, a Caribbean diva, brings rhythm, nature, and sparkle.
Old Man Zimmer, a thoughtful storyteller, shares his love of books and puppetry.
Sid Sity, creative and musical, uplifts everyone with sequins and song.

Love Rising is more than a story hour — it’s a theatrical celebration of inclusive, healthy self-expression and community connection. Sensory toys will be available to support all participants, and the event remains completely free and open to the public.

This is your last chance to experience the magic in person — RSVP today.

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Presented by Pillsbury House + Theatre as part of their 2025 Makers Series.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Paige Elliot

May 29, 2025

North News Interns Get Insider Look at the New York Times

Last week, North News took their journalism interns to New York City. Our journalists-in-training visited the New York Times and interviewed renowned reporters: Joe Cascarelli, Tayla Minsberg, Jacey Fortin, and Sarah Mervosh.

They shared stories about interviewing Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift, covering the Paris Olympics, and reporting on breaking news in South Sudan and the Congo. Students also got a private tour of the newsroom and the New York Times museum.

Photos by Azhae’la Hanson

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 28, 2025

Juneteenth Celebration: Unity, Healing & Hope

📅 Date: June 13, 2025 | 🕒 Time: 12:30-5:30pm | 📍 Location: Shiloh Temple Lot, 1201 West Broadway, Minneapolis, MN 55411

Join us this Juneteenth as we honor freedom, reflect on our shared history, and come together in community and fellowship to build a safer, stronger future for all.

This year, we center our celebration around violence prevention—lifting up the voices and efforts working toward peace, healing, and resilience in our neighborhoods. Through food, music, storytelling, and community dialogue, we aim to reclaim space, spread love, and cultivate lasting change.

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 26, 2025

Breaking the Stigma: Social Workers Addressing Mental Health and Substance Use in Our Communities

In a world where mental health and substance use issues often carry heavy stigma, a groundbreaking conversation is taking place that you won’t want to miss.

“Breaking the Stigma: Social Workers Addressing Mental Health and Substance Use in Our Communities” offers an in-depth exploration of how social workers are at the forefront of combating these challenges. Through insightful discussions and real-life examples, the panel delves into the complexities of mental health and substance use, shedding light on the critical role social workers play in providing support, advocacy, and solutions.

This conversation is more than just a discussion; it’s a call to action. It’s an invitation to understand, empathize, and engage in the collective effort to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use. Whether you’re a professional in the field, someone personally affected, or simply an advocate for change, this video offers valuable perspectives and actionable insights.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of a movement towards greater understanding and support. Click the link below to watch the full discussion and join the conversation.

👉 Breaking the Stigma: Social Workers Addressing Mental Health and Substance Use in Ours Communities

👉 The Epidemic of drug Use within the Community

Together, we can break the stigma and build a more compassionate and supportive community for all.

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 21, 2025

Tune In: A Memorial Day Broadcast on MPR News

On Memorial Day—Monday, May 26 at 9AM—Minnesota Public Radio will air a powerful conversation marking the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder.

Hosted by Angela Davis, the program features local Black leaders reflecting on what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what work still lies ahead.

This conversation brings together:

Angela Harrelson, George Floyd’s aunt and registered nurse
Anthony Taylor, community development lead for the Cultural Wellness Center and outdoor educator-activist
Jeanelle Austin, founder of the Racial Agency Initiative and a board member for the George Floyd Global Memorial
Jerome Richardson, cofounder of the youth-led Minnesota Teen Activists
Signe Harriday, artistic producing director at Pillsbury House + Theatre and lead local organizer for the Million Artist Movement
Tabitha Montgomery, executive director of the Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association

Listen live on MPR News at 91.1 FM or stream at mprnews.org.

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 20, 2025

Full Cycle Spring Bike Sale at University of Minnesota ReUse Center May 31st

🚲 Ready to Ride? Find Your Next Bike for Less! 🔧

Full Cycle, in partnership with U of M Used Bike Sale at the ReUse Center is having a HUGE bike sale!
Whether you’re a student, commuter, or weekend cruiser, this is your chance to score a quality used bike at a steal of a price.

🗓 Saturday, May 25 | 10 AM – 4 PM
📍 U of M ReUse Program Warehouse – 883 29th Ave SE, Minneapolis

🔥 Over 400 bikes available! From road bikes to cruisers, hybrids, and more. All bikes are priced to go, and the selection is massive.

Why you don’t want to miss it:
✅ Incredible deals – bikes starting under $100
✅ Sustainable shopping – good for the planet and your wallet
✅ First-come, first-served – so get there early!

Bring a friend, bring a helmet, and bring your love of two wheels. 💥
Let’s roll, Minneapolis!

👉 Full details here: https://www.bikemn.org/events/u-of-m-bike-sale-at-reuse-center

Elizabeth Brisbin

Fresh Produce, Free for All – Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday!

🥦 Fresh Produce, Free for All – Every 1st & 3rd Wednesday! 🥕

Need fresh fruits and veggies? We’ve got you covered — for FREE!
Join us at the food shelf every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month for a fresh produce giveaway open to everyone in the community.

🗓 When: 1st & 3rd Wednesdays
⏰ Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
📍 Where: Pillsbury United Oak Park Community Center, 1701 Oak Park Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN, 55411

Come by and grab what you need. Let’s nourish our bodies, support one another, and make sure no one in our community goes without.

Come early — supplies go fast!

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 15, 2025

Gratitude & Celebration: A Community Gathering on the Horizon – Save the date!

We are thrilled to announce that the Cedar-Riverside Multicultural Dinner has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the West Bank Community Fund, administered by The Minneapolis Foundation. This generous support affirms the power of community, culture, and shared experiences — and helps bring our vision for an unforgettable night to life.

We extend our deepest thanks to The Minneapolis Foundation and the West Bank Community Fund for believing in the importance of storytelling through food and fellowship. This grant allows us to not only celebrate the vibrant cultures that define Cedar-Riverside, but also to strengthen the bonds that unite neighbors, friends, and families.

🌍 Save the Date!

Cedar-Riverside Multicultural Dinner
📅 September 18, 2025
📍 420 15th Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN, 55454

Expect a rich evening filled with traditional dishes, music, and voices representing the many cultures that make our neighborhood extraordinary. This dinner will be more than a meal. It will be a tapestry of traditions and a living portrait of community resilience.

We hope you’ll join us in celebration, gratitude, and unity.

Stay tuned for more details — and mark your calendar now!

With appreciation,

Pillsbury United Communities

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 13, 2025

From Heart Scare to Heartfelt Service

A powerful reminder that life’s challenges can lead to new paths of purpose. After a personal health scare, PUC Community Health Coordinator, Jacara Warfield found renewed strength and a deeper connection to community service. Her journey reflects the resilience and spirit of the Northside. Pillsbury United Communities is lucky to have her on the team! Find Jacara at North Market twice a week offering Community Health services & resources. Read the full story in North News

Photo by David Pierini, Editor of North News

North Market & North News are enterprises of Pillsbury United Communities.

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 12, 2025

Warm Thanks: A Heartfelt Thank You for Supporting Our Winter Coat Drive

As the cold weather set in, so did the warmth of our community’s generosity. We want to extend our deepest thanks to every individual, family, and organization who donated to our Winter Coat Drive. Because of your kindness, hundreds of neighbors were able to stay warm, safe, and protected during the harshest months of the year.

From jackets and winter gear to boots, gloves, hats, and scarves—your donations made a real difference. Each coat you gave represented more than just warmth; it was a gesture of care, solidarity, and hope for those who needed it most.

Thanks to your contributions:

We distributed 858 coats and cold-weather items to children, adults, and seniors in need.
Families facing financial hardship were able to focus on other basic needs, knowing their loved ones had the clothing needed to endure winter.
We strengthened community bonds by showing what’s possible when we come together with compassion and purpose.

This coat drive was a true reflection of the power of collective giving. Whether you donated, helped spread the word, or volunteered your time—thank you for being part of this effort. Your generosity brought real warmth to real people.

We’re proud to be part of a community that shows up for one another. Thank you for making a difference.

With gratitude,

Pillsbury United Communities

Elizabeth Brisbin

May 11, 2025

Experience Connection Across Generations at the North Market Intergenerational Forum

Step into a space where stories are shared, laughter echoes, and generations unite! The North Market Intergenerational Forum invites you to an afternoon of meaningful conversations, lively activities, and community spirit. Whether you’re a teen, a parent, or a grandparent, this event is all about bridging the age gap and celebrating the wisdom, energy, and diversity we each bring to the table.

Come enjoy tasty snacks, engage in interactive discussions, and take part in wellness-focused fun that encourages us to move, learn, and grow—together. Let’s honor our shared roots, build new connections, and create joyful memories across generations.

Join us at North Market—where community thrives and everyone belongs.

When: Wednesday, May 28th, 6:00 – 8:00pm

Where: North Market, 4414 N. Humboldt Ave, Minneapolis

(Event takes place in the Community Room at North Market.)

This event is designed to bridge generations through interactive conversations, snacks, and fun! From youth to elders, everyone is invited to join us in honoring the power of community, embracing healthy living, and enjoying quality time together at North Market. Let’s move, learn, and grow—side by side.