Staff Archives - Uptown Association

Stefani Pennaz

Tue, 05 May 2026 01:05:18 +0000

Stefani Pennaz brings a diverse background in nonprofit leadership, media, community engagement, and organizational development to her role as Executive Director of the Uptown Association. She spent much of her career in media before transitioning into nonprofit leadership, most recently leading a major nonprofit organization in Southern Arizona.

Now back in Minnesota, Stefani is excited to bring her experience home and help lead Uptown into its next chapter. Her focus includes strengthening local businesses, building partnerships, creating new opportunities for the neighborhood, and bringing back signature events like the Uptown Art Fair that have long been part of Uptown’s identity.

Working alongside businesses, residents, community partners, and city leaders, Stefani is committed to building momentum, restoring energy, and helping shape a vibrant and welcoming future for Uptown.

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Lawrence Thomas

Mon, 04 May 2026 23:37:33 +0000

Lawrence Thomas is a State Farm agent serving the Uptown community and a board member of the Uptown Association. He is dedicated to building strong relationships, supporting local businesses, and contributing to a connected, thriving Uptown neighborhood.

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Eric Enge

Mon, 04 May 2026 23:34:32 +0000

Now of Uptown Quarterly Magazine, Eric Enge is a longtime Uptown business owner and active advocate for local economic development. Through his involvement with the Uptown Association, he has helped champion initiatives that support small businesses, increase community engagement, and promote Uptown as a destination for residents and visitors alike. He has also contributed to conversations around neighborhood revitalization efforts, including business engagement and marketing strategies that expand Uptown’s reach and visibility.

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Judy Longbottom

Sun, 03 May 2026 19:45:59 +0000

Judy Longbottom is the owner and operator of The UPS Store in Uptown, a business she has led since May 2002. Now located at 28th & Hennepin, her store has served as a trusted neighborhood resource for more than two decades, supporting local residents, entrepreneurs, and organizations with consistency and care.

With over 20 years of active involvement in Uptown, Judy brings a deep understanding of the community and a strong commitment to its continued growth and vitality. As a small business leader, she has been a steady presence in the district, contributing to the strength and resilience of Uptown’s commercial corridor.

In her role on the Uptown Association Executive Team, Judy is focused on fostering collaboration, supporting local businesses, and helping shape a vibrant, welcoming Uptown for all who live, work, and visit the area.

Judy shares, “I am thrilled to be a member of the UA Board and look forward to helping continue all of the wonderful things they do to promote and support Uptown businesses and residents.”

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Josh Erickson

Sat, 02 May 2026 18:17:36 +0000

Josh joins the Uptown Association as its Community Membership Specialist, serving as the main point of contact for businesses and individuals looking to get involved. An experienced web content creator, he is excited to contribute to the Uptown Association’s mission of revitalizing one of Minneapolis’ most recognizable subdivisions.

A University of Minnesota alumni, Josh is local to the area and looks forward to being a face-to-face contact between the UA and local businesses.

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Nicholas Hall

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 01:46:05 +0000

Nicholas Hall is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker serving the Uptown Minneapolis area. Known for his client-focused approach and deep understanding of the local market, Nicholas helps buyers and sellers navigate every step of the real estate process with confidence. He is committed to delivering personalized service, strong communication, and results that align with each client’s goals, while contributing to the continued growth and vibrancy of the Uptown community.

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Matt Swinney

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 23:38:53 +0000

The fusion of art, science and creativity is the driving force behind Matt Swinney’s ambition and passion for the hair care industry. A four-time North American Hairstyling Award (NAHA) winner, including 2017 Hairstylist of the year, and Four-time winner of Behind The Chair’s ONE SHOT Award, Matt is highly respected in the professional beauty industry for his creative vision, technical expertise and business savvy. Matt has also led NY fashion week and been featured in American Salon, Modern Salon, Behindthechair.com and named a “Beauty Genius” by Elle Magazine.

Matt began his career as a receptionist in his parent’s salon at the age of 15. By the age of 23 Matt opened Evolution Salon in the heart of Minneapolis. A renowned educator, Matt has traveled the globe conceptualizing and bringing new ideas to shows, shoots, and education platforms to push the industry forward.

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Bradley Reinstedler

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 19:39:35 +0000

Manager of the Uptown Theater and Louisville native

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Jamey Groethe & Nicole Strand

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 19:04:00 +0000

Jamey Groethe and Nicole Strand are the current owners of the Leaning Tower of Pizza in Uptown, Minneapolis. They are not only partners in business, they are partners in life. Growing up in South Minneapolis, as teenagers and young adults, they spent many years hanging out at some of the most nostalgic, legendary establishments in Uptown.

Both having decades of experience in the restaurant / service industry, organizing and promoting community events, while partnering with neighborhood organizations and local community leaders, as the current owners and stewards of this historic, 75 year old cornerstone restaurant and bar, they feel that it is not only an honor but their duty to serve and represent our Uptown neighborhoods in all the best ways they possibly can for years to come.

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