by Shirley Heyer
Midtown Phillips Neighborhood Association, Inc. (MPNAI) invites you to enjoy music, food and community at its first annual “Midtown Phillips Festival,” an all-ages family event, Sat., July 23, at Stewart Park, 12th Ave. S. and E. 26th St. This is rain or shine, noon to 8 p.m. The park”'s gym will be available in case of rain.
Co-sponsors with the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board, MPNAI also presents this event in association with the city”'s annual Aquatennial Celebration that celebrates Minneapolis”' famous lakes, rivers and parks. This neighborhood does not have lakes or rivers but it does have parks and the Midtown Greenway!
In celebrating its diversity, the neighborhood showcases numerous athletic contests for all ages throughout the day at the Ben Casey baseball diamond and new soccer field ”“ both funded through contributions from the Minnesota Twins.
Waite House and JAS will stage games for toddlers through teens with Waite House”'s teens leading participants of all ages in games on “Making Recycling Fun!”
Great entertainment:Â Mad Dads from 12 noon to 1 p.m., Minnesota Community Sings 1 to 2 p.m., Jack Klatt and the Cat Swingers 2 to 3 p.m., Singer Songwriter Circle hosted by Midtown Phillips”' Dan Wilder 3 to 4 p.m., In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theater 3 to 4 p.m., Cadillac Kolstad/Cornbread Harris 4 to 5 p.m., Native Drum 6 to 7 p.m. Two slots still to be filled.
In addition to Mad Dads, local ethnic food vendors will be offering their specialties. Mad Dads is a non-profit supporting strong individuals and families. They will help kick off the day”'s events with their music and free hot dogs and brats!
In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre is presenting “Coyote,” a story-telling for children of all ages.
MPNAI”'s large get-acquainted tent invites you to meet and greet, build community and seek shelter from the summer sun. Numerous community organizations are coming with information tables. Craft vendors too.
Walk, bike, take public transit or come by wheelchair. If you come by vehicle, look for the parking signs.
