This week’s edition covers stories
from July 17th to July 23rd, 2025.
Today’s issue is 765 words, a 6-minute read
Hey folks, Mateo here.
This week brings a mix of change and celebration across Minneapolis and St. Paul. From the contested mayoral endorsement shaking up city leadership to the return of the beloved Aquatennial festival, there’s energy and excitement in the air. But amid the festivities, the closing of the Midway Cub Foods store reminds us of the challenges many communities still face, as longtime local businesses disappear and residents worry about the future of their neighborhoods. In this edition, we bring you the stories that matter to our community, from shifting political tides and summer safety alerts to the joys and concerns shaping our streets. Let’s dive in.
Frey Disputes Endorsement Vote
as Fateh’s Candidacy Surges
The Minneapolis mayoral race is heating up. State Senator Omar Fateh secured the DFL endorsement over the weekend, but Mayor Jacob Frey is already pushing back, formally challenging the results. Frey’s campaign claims a flawed and untested electronic voting system led to missing or uncounted votes, pointing to a large gap between the number of delegates checked in and the votes recorded.
Fateh’s growing popularity signals a shift in Minneapolis politics. Known for his progressive agenda and deep ties to grassroots organizers, he’s quickly becoming a figure of national interest, even drawing comparisons to New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. But with that rising profile has come a wave of racist online attacks, a reminder of the resistance faced by candidates of color challenging the status quo. Supporters see Fateh’s candidacy as a chance to reshape city leadership and reflect the communities it serves.
ICYMI: Minneapolis Beach Closures
Planning to hit the lake this weekend? Think again. Ten beaches across Hennepin County including popular spots along the Chain of Lakes and Lake Minnetonka are temporarily closed due to high levels of E. coli bacteria.
Health officials point to recent rainfall and animal waste as the likely cause. Some areas are also seeing harmful blue-green algae blooms, which can be dangerous for both people and pets. Beaches will reopen once water meets state safety standards, but for now, it’s best to steer clear of murky water and hold off on swimming right after storms. To see the full closure map, click here.
86th Annual Aquatennial Kicks Off
Minneapolis is kicking off the height of summer with the return of the 86th annual Aquatennial, running Wednesday, July 23rd through Saturday, July 26. The beloved city celebration features everything from outdoor concerts and art markets to milk-carton boat races and one of the most impressive fireworks shows in the Midwest.
This year’s Aquatennial offers dozens of events across downtown, the riverfront, and Nicollet Mall, and nearly all of it is free. Whether you are in it for the music, family fun, or just soaking in summer after a stretch of rain, here are a few highlights to get you started this weekend:
Friday, July 25:
- Start the evening with AlleyJam, a block party of music, art, and food behind the FAIR School (4–7 p.m.)
- Unwind with a free outdoor CorePower yoga class at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (6–7 p.m.)
- Catch the Minnesota Twins vs. Washington Nationals under the lights at Target Field (7:10 p.m.)
Saturday, July 26:
- Browse local makers at the Loring Park Art Festival (10 a.m.–6 p.m.) or Nicollet Island Aquatennial Market (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
- Explore Caribbean culture and cuisine at Twin Cities Carifest along the river (10 a.m.–10 p.m.)
- Stay for the Target Fireworks on the West River Parkway (the grand finale starts at 10 p.m., but get there early for the best views)
The End of an Era: Midway
Cub Shuts Its Doors
The Midway Cub Foods in St. Paul, a neighborhood staple for decades, is closing its doors, leaving longtime shoppers frustrated but not surprised. Residents have raised concerns about persistent issues like shoplifting, panhandling, and limited store resources that signaled a slow decline. City leaders, including Mayor Melvin Carter, expressed disappointment and shared efforts to keep the store open, from meetings with Cub leadership to retrieving stolen carts. However, communication stalled, and the closure is now inevitable.
The loss adds to a growing pattern of business closures and neighborhood neglect, with longtime businesses and amenities disappearing amid redevelopment projects like Allianz Field. While city officials remain hopeful about new developments like United Village, many community members worry that these changes aren’t meeting their needs. “It seems like they gave up a while ago,” said shopper Karen Shrake, reflecting a wider concern over the impact on local access and community vitality.
Stay informed, stay connected.
See you next week!
–
Mateo and the NewPrensa team
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Hi, friend: Mateo here!
I’m a Communications Specialist by day and celebrating the Aquatennial by night!
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