The young and not so young gathered for a night of Fire and Ice at Cedar Lake East Beach. Fire performers Danielle Doncaster and Company enthralled neighbors as they enjoyed ice cream donated by local favorite, Sebastian Joe’s. Hosted by the Kenwood Neighborhood Organization (KNO), the event marked the end of a successful Summer season of Hidden Acoustic concerts, yoga and family fun events.
Volunteers led by Kenwood resident and KNO board member, Will Stensrud, planned and hosted all of the beach engagement events with the goal to foster community connections, create a welcoming environment for all and increase public safety at the beach and surrounding area. Volunteers have committed countless hours to stewardship by cleaning, raking and organizing the beach every morning in addition to planning and hosting all of the beach events.
Stewardship comes in many forms including mud. Steve, better known as the “mud man,” has been maintaining, documenting and introducing visitors to the mud pit at East Cedar Lake Beach for 30 years. This Summer alone, he has tallied over 2,000 mud pit visitors. For his ongoing stewardship and dedication, Steve was recognized at Fire and Ice with a special plaque presented on behalf of beach lovers.
In addition to acknowledging the mud man, Will Stensrud was recognized for his leadership in Cedar Lake East Beach efforts that have welcomed more families, neighbors and visitors to enjoy the community space. Minneapolis Park Commissioner Elizabeth Shaffer and KNO board member Mark Brown presented Will with a gold rake for his impactful leadership in making the beach a more welcoming place for all.
KNO summer 2024 events are already in the planning stage and all are invited to join in the fun as volunteers and visitors. Learn more at kenwoodmpls.org.
