Energy Builds for Open Streets Franklin on August 21st

Photo by Star Tribune
Photo by Star Tribune at Rebecca’s Bakery and Cafe

Randy Furst and Faiza Mahamud from the Star Tribune came out last month to see how Seward’s side of Open Streets Franklin event is preparing this year. Read their article here.

Burhan “Scot Isqoox” Elmi – Scot – has been a wonderful addition to the coordination efforts. He’s getting the word out and inviting Ethiopian and Somali residents and business owners to dress up in traditional, cultural attire. He’s also bridged a connection to the Somali Museum, who will have a music stage with dancers by Triangle Park, and to Coach Ahmed Ismail from the West Bank Athletic Club, who will be organizing a soccer game on Franklin, also in front of Triangle Park.

Open Streets Franklin will happen on Sunday, August 21st from 11am – 5pm.

The deadline for businesses and artists to sign up is July 22nd. Email deborah@articulture.org if you have questions, or go straight to the Open Streets website to register. Artists can join for free; any business in Seward can get a spot on the street.

By Deborah Ervin

Deb holds an M.A. in Arts and Cultural Management from Saint Mary’s University, and a B.A. from the University of Minnesota where she majored in theater. Based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Deb has 12 years of experience working in the nonprofit arts sector, working with Twin Cities cultural gems such as The Cedar Cultural Center, the Midtown Global Market, In the Heart of the Beast Puppetry and Mask Theatre, and more. She’s primarily drawn towards work that involves relationship building, such as communications and fundraising. Deb also has two decades of experience as an events manager for live music, theater, and dance. Her work as a stage manager has brought her into intimate collaborations with diverse communities, artists from around the globe, and projects ranging from river boat ballets to burlesque holiday shows.