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A guide to fun things to do in Twin Cities this weekend.

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National

New satellites test orbital data centers and "energy beaming"

Energy & Climate

When the frame outlives the messenger

Business

The midterm risk map for communicators

Jake Paul's Anti Fund seeks $400M for new VC fund

Renee Good's family sues Trump administration, ICE agent

News

The lawsuits are an attempt to hold the feds "accountable" in civil court for both Good's death and the broader immigration enforcement blitz.

Renee Good&#x27;s family filed two civil lawsuits over <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="her killing during Operation Metro Surge" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/07/ice-agent-shooting-south-minneapolis" data-vars-content-id="9d21a257-7a54-4089-a7bf-6c7b29850ffe" data-vars-headline="Renee Good&#x27;s family sues Trump administration, ICE agent" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/07/ice-agent-shooting-south-minneapolis" target="_self">her killing during Operation Metro Surge</a> — including one against six current and former Trump administration officials, as well as the ICE agent who shot and killed her.The big picture: The lawsuits are an attempt to hold the feds accountable in civil court for both Good&#x27;s death and the broader immigration enforcement blitz.<ul><li>The Trump administration has declined to criminally charge the agents who shot Good or <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Alex Pretti" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/25/minnesota-rare-legal-steps-investigation-alex-pretti-shooting" data-vars-content-id="9d21a257-7a54-4089-a7bf-6c7b29850ffe" data-vars-headline="Renee Good&#x27;s family sues Trump administration, ICE agent" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/01/25/minnesota-rare-legal-steps-investigation-alex-pretti-shooting" target="_self">Alex Pretti</a>, and any state-level charges from the shootings would face legal hurdles.</li></ul>

Watch "human-powered flying machines" take flight at Flugtag

It's the first time in seven years Minnesota has hosted the wacky event.

Dozens of brave Midwesterners are about to take flight over the Mississippi River — or at least attempt it.The big picture: Saturday marks the return of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Red Bull Flugtag" data-vars-click-url="https://www.redbull.com/us-en/events/red-bull-flugtag-minneapolis/red-bull-flugtag-2026-rules" data-vars-content-id="0d7d5ee4-5201-4624-bedb-fee8fded3c05" data-vars-headline="Watch &quot;human-powered flying machines&quot; take flight at Flugtag" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.redbull.com/us-en/events/red-bull-flugtag-minneapolis/red-bull-flugtag-2026-rules" target="_blank">Red Bull Flugtag</a>, the energy drink&#x27;s wacky competition in which teams launch homemade aircraft off a 30-foot-high platform — with a human pilot in the cockpit — to see how far it can fly.

Taxpayers paid for Walz's D.C. hearing prep. The cost is still a secret.

A 2025 congressional appearance generated more than $400,000 in outside legal costs.

Gov. Tim Walz&#x27;s office still won&#x27;t say how much it paid an outside law firm to get him ready for an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="early March appearance in front of Congress" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/03/04/walz-ellison-fraud-oversight-hearing-washington" data-vars-content-id="929b6098-344e-4353-986a-008cb90d5069" data-vars-headline="Taxpayers paid for Walz&#x27;s D.C. hearing prep. The cost is still a secret." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/03/04/walz-ellison-fraud-oversight-hearing-washington" target="_self">early March appearance in front of Congress</a>.Why it matters: Taxpayers can foot the bill for such engagements, making the still-undisclosed cost of Walz&#x27;s testimony in front of the House Oversight Committee a matter of public spending. <ul><li>When the DFL governor was called to testify before the GOP-controlled panel in 2025, the state was charged <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="over $400,000" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mprnews.org/story/2025/07/09/gov-tim-walz-defends-430000-ask-for-legal-counsel-used-to-prep-for-congressional-hearing" data-vars-content-id="929b6098-344e-4353-986a-008cb90d5069" data-vars-headline="Taxpayers paid for Walz&#x27;s D.C. hearing prep. The cost is still a secret." data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mprnews.org/story/2025/07/09/gov-tim-walz-defends-430000-ask-for-legal-counsel-used-to-prep-for-congressional-hearing" target="_blank">over $400,000</a> for his preparation.</li></ul>

More Minnesotans are calling in death doulas

As talking about death has gotten less taboo, more people are calling upon death doulas to help them thoughtfully plan their final days.

Wellness Brief

Doulas don&#x27;t just help <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="welcome new life" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/21/doula-care-medicaid-insurance" data-vars-content-id="78b7cacd-ff4d-4fd6-a13b-e466078283fa" data-vars-headline="More Minnesotans are calling in death doulas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/21/doula-care-medicaid-insurance" target="_self">welcome new life</a> — there&#x27;s a growing field of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="end-of-life doulas" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2024/04/21/death-doulas-chicago-collective" data-vars-content-id="78b7cacd-ff4d-4fd6-a13b-e466078283fa" data-vars-headline="More Minnesotans are calling in death doulas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2024/04/21/death-doulas-chicago-collective" target="_self">end-of-life doulas</a>.Why it matters: Although birth often comes with celebration, typically &quot;we don&#x27;t do that with death, even though it&#x27;s just as impactful, it&#x27;s just as dramatic, it&#x27;s just as important,&quot; says Patricia Harmon, an <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="end-of-life doula" data-vars-click-url="https://liminamn.com/" data-vars-content-id="78b7cacd-ff4d-4fd6-a13b-e466078283fa" data-vars-headline="More Minnesotans are calling in death doulas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://liminamn.com/" target="_blank">end-of-life doula</a> in Twin Cities.

Summit founder confident he'll keep the brewery 

Controlling owner Mark Stutrud says debt problems date back to a 2012 expansion.

Mark Stutrud says that despite a lender&#x27;s lawsuit painting a picture of Summit nearing its demise, the 40-year-old St. Paul brewery will weather the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="craft beer reckoning" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/06/09/minnesota-breweries-declines-2025-beer" data-vars-content-id="d41c2704-3b04-4427-8cfb-16368fc3cf2e" data-vars-headline="Summit founder confident he&#x27;ll keep the brewery " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/06/09/minnesota-breweries-declines-2025-beer" target="_self">craft beer reckoning</a>. <ul><li>&quot;I think we&#x27;re close to the floor of this deep trough cycle — one that&#x27;s the deepest I&#x27;ve experienced in 40 years,&quot; the company founder and controlling owner told Axios in an interview a few days after BMO Bank filed to foreclose on the brewery. </li></ul>

Dick's Sporting Goods planning mega store in Maple Grove

The two-level House of Sport concept is heavy on interactive features.

Dick&#x27;s is planning one if its large, experiential House of Sport stores in Maple Grove, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="documents" data-vars-click-url="https://www.maplegrovemn.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/10732?fileID=30921" data-vars-content-id="819a2d37-1ffc-4ef0-b258-2f84992768f1" data-vars-headline="Dick&#x27;s Sporting Goods planning mega store in Maple Grove" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.maplegrovemn.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/10732?fileID=30921" target="_blank">documents</a> submitted to the city. Zoom in: The two-level, 100,000-square-foot store would be part of a larger development near Highway 610 and Maple Grove Parkway. <ul><li>The proposal also calls for a Golf Galaxy store, a Chick-fil-A and a 7 Brew drive-thru coffee shop. </li></ul>

New Wolves ownership still wants downtown arena

Mayor Jacob Frey signaled some flexibility on location, public help.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reshuffled Wolves/Lynx ownership group" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/21/minnesota-timberwolves-lynx-stad-lore-arod" data-vars-content-id="c85ddc9c-e1ff-43e7-835b-f164d193d836" data-vars-headline="New Wolves ownership still wants downtown arena" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/21/minnesota-timberwolves-lynx-stad-lore-arod" target="_self">reshuffled Wolves/Lynx ownership group</a> is still committed to building a new arena in Minnesota, preferably in downtown Minneapolis, but CEO Matt Caldwell said he expects the public to help pay for it.

It's prime homebuying season — with a caveat 

Inventory is up and competition has waned, but mortgage rates remain stubbornly high.

The chaos of spring and summer <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="homebuying" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/17/median-metro-home-price-reaches-400k-for-first-time" data-vars-content-id="bf8e63db-bba5-420b-b50b-0e7c4e6f3b44" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s prime homebuying season — with a caveat " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/07/17/median-metro-home-price-reaches-400k-for-first-time" target="_self">homebuying</a> is over and the Twin Cities are entering the best time of the year to snag a house, according to a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Realtor.com report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.realtor.com/research/best-time-to-buy-2026" data-vars-content-id="bf8e63db-bba5-420b-b50b-0e7c4e6f3b44" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s prime homebuying season — with a caveat " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.realtor.com/research/best-time-to-buy-2026" target="_blank">Realtor.com report</a>. Why it matters: This sweet spot gives buyers a break from the bidding wars and waived home inspections that are more common earlier in the year.

U.S. Bank Stadium turns 10

The building's transluscent roof set a trend that other NFL team are copying

It was 10 years ago today that the Vikings christened U.S. Bank Stadium with a nail-biting 17-14 win over the Packers in the building&#x27;s first NFL regular season game. <ul><li>Newly acquired quarterback Sam Bradford had a strong game, and the Vikings intercepted Aaron Rodgers to seal the deal with 2 minutes to go. </li></ul>

Vikings' 2026 season hinges on Kyler Murray 

This year's team is dangerous, but it's not clear if that's good or bad.

The Vikings open <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="their season" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/07/31/three-vikings-storylines-to-watch-as-2026-training-camp-begins" data-vars-content-id="fb90eec5-f93f-40b9-b3bd-c11a29b985f0" data-vars-headline="Vikings&#x27; 2026 season hinges on Kyler Murray " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/07/31/three-vikings-storylines-to-watch-as-2026-training-camp-begins" target="_self">their season</a> Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium with the makings of a dangerous team. The question is what kind of danger they&#x27;ll be.The big picture: While the pundits predict a middle-of-the-pack team, the Vikings have the talent to be much more than that. But they also have enough uncertainty that things could go sideways in a hurry.

Doulas go mainstream

Research links doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births.

Doula care is now more mainstream — embraced by major insurers and increasingly seen as a standard part of pregnancy rather than a niche choice.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Earlier research" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sph.umn.edu/news/study-shows-doula-care-is-cost-effective-associated-with-reduction-in-preterm-and-cesarean-births/" data-vars-content-id="83b7ed11-c2c1-484c-9697-9864ee1665c9" data-vars-headline="Doulas go mainstream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sph.umn.edu/news/study-shows-doula-care-is-cost-effective-associated-with-reduction-in-preterm-and-cesarean-births/" target="_blank">Earlier research</a> from the Minnesota School of Public health linked doula support to lower cesarean rates and fewer preterm births, while a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="newer review" data-vars-click-url="https://jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?doi=10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.8416&amp;utm_campaign=articlePDF%26utm_medium=articlePDFlink%26utm_source=articlePDF%26utm_content=jamanetworkopen.2026.8416" data-vars-content-id="83b7ed11-c2c1-484c-9697-9864ee1665c9" data-vars-headline="Doulas go mainstream" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?doi=10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.8416&amp;utm_campaign=articlePDF%26utm_medium=articlePDFlink%26utm_source=articlePDF%26utm_content=jamanetworkopen.2026.8416" target="_blank">newer review</a> of clinical and pilot trials found the strongest evidence around anxiety, breastfeeding initiation and postpartum follow-up.

Minnesota was first: Where doulas are covered by Medicaid

More than half of U.S. states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid.

More than half of U.S. states now reimburse for doula care under Medicaid — a dramatic shift from just a few years ago.

Twin Cities weekend guide: "Paris Couture," Crypticon, fall fun

Calling all fashionistas: This new exhibition is sure to inspire your fall wardrobe.

Things to Do

Calling all fashionistas: The Minneapolis Institute of Art&#x27;s new exhibition is sure to inspire your fall wardrobe.What&#x27;s happening: Sunday marks the debut of &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Paris Couture" data-vars-click-url="https://new.artsmia.org/exhibition/paris-couture" data-vars-content-id="4684ef9c-a111-4633-ae4e-f93873eba717" data-vars-headline="Twin Cities weekend guide: &quot;Paris Couture,&quot; Crypticon, fall fun" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://new.artsmia.org/exhibition/paris-couture" target="_blank">Paris Couture</a>,&quot; a showcase of more than 80 works of haute couture from Paris fashion museum Palais Galliera.

The Minnesota Wild are anything but boring

Minnesota enters the season with star power — but big questions about their future.

Sports

Don&#x27;t anyone call Minnesota&#x27;s NHL team &quot;the Mild&quot; after the offseason they&#x27;ve endured.Why it matters: As they open a new season Thursday night, the Wild are no longer the steady, solid, but middling — aka <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="boring" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/10/09/wild-season-preview-2025-2026" data-vars-content-id="015ab2b7-33ea-45f6-bb92-d09475e5d137" data-vars-headline="The Minnesota Wild are anything but boring" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/10/09/wild-season-preview-2025-2026" target="_self">boring</a> — franchise that earned that mocking moniker.<ul><li>For better or for worse, several of the NHL&#x27;s biggest storylines currently run through Minnesota, thanks to general manager Bill Guerin&#x27;s bold roster moves.</li></ul>

DOJ files misconduct complaint against Minnesota judges

The department wants judges investigated.

Politics & Policy

The Justice Department filed a complaint against a group of federal <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="judges" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/09/doj-blanche-war-activist-judges-dc-bar-associations" data-vars-content-id="62574610-f944-441a-8531-7d7c8ab8c5d3" data-vars-headline="DOJ files misconduct complaint against Minnesota judges" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/09/doj-blanche-war-activist-judges-dc-bar-associations" target="_self">judges</a> from Minnesota for speaking to The New York Times about the impact of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="immigration enforcement" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/02/04/minnesota-immigration-withdrawal-tom-homan" data-vars-content-id="62574610-f944-441a-8531-7d7c8ab8c5d3" data-vars-headline="DOJ files misconduct complaint against Minnesota judges" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/02/04/minnesota-immigration-withdrawal-tom-homan" target="_self">immigration enforcement</a> surge on their court. The big picture: The complaint opens a new front in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="62574610-f944-441a-8531-7d7c8ab8c5d3" data-vars-headline="DOJ files misconduct complaint against Minnesota judges" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> administration&#x27;s standoff with federal judges, bolstered by a loyal Justice Department.

How third-party candidates could shape Minnesota's tight races

Independent, Green and Libertarian candidates are competing in several major statewide races this fall.

Most of Minnesota&#x27;s top statewide races this November have a third-party candidate in the mix. Why it matters: Even a relatively small share of the vote going to someone outside the two major parties can shape the outcome of a close race.

Twins autopsy: What went wrong, and what's ahead 

While there are promising young players, fans want to know if ownership will spend on free agents.

The faces of the people running the Minnesota Twins changed this year, but the results were largely the same: A late-season collapse took them out of the running for a playoff spot, just like 2024 and 2025.Why it matters: As the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Twins" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/03/26/minnesota-twins-2026-preview" data-vars-content-id="d3c57719-0632-418a-a01b-11beeaf4a328" data-vars-headline="Twins autopsy: What went wrong, and what&#x27;s ahead " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/03/26/minnesota-twins-2026-preview" target="_self">Twins</a> pack up their lockers after Sunday&#x27;s finale, big questions remain about the future of the franchise.

Lynx draw old nemesis Liberty for playoffs  

Late-season struggles and Olivia Miles' injury are a concern for Minnesota.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Lynx" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/05/08/lynx-2026-season-depleted-roster" data-vars-content-id="ea6736c6-26c6-477e-a06a-8f1e630389e6" data-vars-headline="Lynx draw old nemesis Liberty for playoffs " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/05/08/lynx-2026-season-depleted-roster" target="_self">Lynx</a> will host the New York Liberty on Sunday in Game 1 of the WNBA Playoffs&#x27; first round.State of play: Minnesota is the No. 1 overall seed in the postseason and remains the favorite to the win the championship, but there&#x27;s plenty of cause for concern.

Property tax sticker shock prompts tough questions

Minneapolis headlines a long list of Twin Cities communities facing steep hikes.

A Minneapolis board could pave the way for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the city&#x27;s biggest property tax levy increase in decades" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/minneapolis-property-tax-increase-budget-cuts" data-vars-content-id="23704106-1158-44d7-998e-4871eaf325fc" data-vars-headline="Property tax sticker shock prompts tough questions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/12/minneapolis-property-tax-increase-budget-cuts" target="_self">the city&#x27;s biggest property tax levy increase in decades</a> when it meets Wednesday — but the board&#x27;s members are asking tough questions about what the city will get in exchange.Why it matters: Minneapolis headlines a list of Twin Cities communities where property taxpayers could endure a steeper hike than usual as local governments work through a difficult budget year.

How to embrace October in the Twin Cities

Seasonal fun adds (pumpkin) spice to your life.

October is almost upon us, which means it&#x27;s time to lean into ghosts and gourds.Why it matters: Seasonal fun adds (pumpkin) spice to your life.

Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Minneapolis

Meet fellow locals over dinner at a restaurant we hand-picked.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" data-vars-content-id="d45ef50f-e8a5-4afd-879c-253dd52745ae" data-vars-headline="Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Minneapolis" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" target="_blank">Axios Social Club</a> is bringing readers together for dinner in Minneapolis&#x27; North Loop neighborhood on Tuesday, Oct. 6.Why it matters: Your city is full of interesting people you haven&#x27;t met yet. We&#x27;re making it easier to change that.

Twin Cities weekend guide: Red Bull Flugtag, Legacy Cup, crop art 

This weekend's events include two major feline festivals.

Want to show off your joint-rolling skills? There&#x27;s no better place than the Midwest&#x27;s Largest Cannabis Festival.What&#x27;s happening: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Legacy Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://legacycupmn.com/" data-vars-content-id="22cb10f0-a5ab-4142-8e7b-cf9c66aa6cd0" data-vars-headline="Twin Cities weekend guide: Red Bull Flugtag, Legacy Cup, crop art " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://legacycupmn.com/" target="_blank">Legacy Cup</a> returns to Surly Brewing Festival Field this Saturday for a 21+ festival mixing art, music and cannabis.

Twin Cities weekend guide: Veg Fest, lantern lighting, apple pressing 

Here's what to do across the Twin Cities area.

The suburbs are the place to be this weekend — we&#x27;ve spotted at least 10 major community festivals all around the metro. <ul><li>Here are some of our picks for family-friendly fun. </li></ul>

Celebrate Dolly Parton's life and legacy at these Twin Cities tribute events

First Avenue and Flip Phone will honor the country icon with music, drag and a book drive.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Dolly Parton" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/08/25/dolly-parton-has-died-at-80-obit" data-vars-content-id="4e092663-d514-45f8-81f2-0789092137cf" data-vars-headline="Celebrate Dolly Parton&#x27;s life and legacy at these Twin Cities tribute events" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/2026/08/25/dolly-parton-has-died-at-80-obit" target="_self">Dolly Parton</a> fans can celebrate the late icon&#x27;s life at one of several upcoming tribute events.What&#x27;s happening: First Avenue will host its sixth annual Tribute to Dolly Parton concert at its namesake venue on Jan. 8. <ul><li>For those who don&#x27;t want to wait, Flip Phone is hosting two Dolly drag brunch shows at Crave Minneapolis on Oct. 4. </li></ul>

Video rental stores are making a comeback in Minneapolis 

Nonprofit Saturn Video will open in Minneapolis next month.

Twin Cities movie buffs nostalgic for the days of Blockbuster will soon have somewhere to rewind.The big picture: After three years of pop-ups at local markets and theaters, nonprofit <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Saturn Video" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/saturnvideo.cafe/" data-vars-content-id="04041466-a52f-4629-ad74-3dd6c01df3a0" data-vars-headline="Video rental stores are making a comeback in Minneapolis " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/saturnvideo.cafe/" target="_blank">Saturn Video</a> will open the metro&#x27;s only video rental storefront next month in Minneapolis&#x27; Seward neighborhood.

Cava restaurant chain finally enters Twin Cities  

Several more of fast casual Mediterranean restaurants are planned in the suburbs

Cava, the fast casual Mediterranean chain, opened its first Minnesota restaurant yesterday in Stadium Village near the U. Why it matters: Never heard of them? This is the company&#x27;s 500th restaurant, and the publicly traded chain did nearly $1.2 billion in sales last year. One could be coming to a strip mall near you.

Restaurant Roundup: Sea Salt's last service 

Bewick Cafe — pronounced like "Buick" — is now open in the former Groundswell space in St. Paul.

Food and Drink

Bewick Cafe — pronounced like &quot;Buick&quot; — is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="now open" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bewickcafe.com/" data-vars-content-id="16a1b3e6-a6d1-4ea9-b71c-0c065f427073" data-vars-headline="Restaurant Roundup: Sea Salt&#x27;s last service " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bewickcafe.com/" target="_blank">now open</a> in the former Groundswell space in St. Paul. Expect both classic and unique brunch dishes, like a &quot;breakfast spaghetti&quot; and spicy sunbutter sandwich.<ul><li>Kyle&#x27;s thought bubble: I tried it! Run — don&#x27;t walk — to try their cardamom bun.</li></ul>

New Vikings stadium foods stick to the classics 

Vikings fans headed to Sunday's home game may want to bring an antacid along with their appetite.

Vikings fans headed to Sunday&#x27;s game may want to bring an antacid along with their appetite.Driving the news: U.S. Bank Stadium just introduced around 20 new concession items for the upcoming Vikings season, and this year&#x27;s theme appears to be classic artery-clogging stadium fare.

How to enter a Minnesota State Fair food contest

Entering the fair's food competitions is free, friendly and surprisingly easy.

Objectively, my parents&#x27; homemade pickles are the best in the world.<ul><li>This year, I set out to prove it by helping them enter the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Minnesota State Fair&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/28/minnesota-state-fair-food-guide-2026-best-worst-pickle-pie-hmong-corn-dog" data-vars-content-id="b580aee1-ac18-4b9a-80d2-1cf0ba25bfc2" data-vars-headline="How to enter a Minnesota State Fair food contest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/28/minnesota-state-fair-food-guide-2026-best-worst-pickle-pie-hmong-corn-dog" target="_self">Minnesota State Fair&#x27;s</a> pickle contest.</li></ul>The big pickle: Turns out <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="submitting your homemade vittles" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mnstatefair.org/competitions/creative-activities" data-vars-content-id="b580aee1-ac18-4b9a-80d2-1cf0ba25bfc2" data-vars-headline="How to enter a Minnesota State Fair food contest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mnstatefair.org/competitions/creative-activities" target="_blank">submitting your homemade vittles</a> at the Great Minnesota Get-Together is free and fun, with categories for all tastes of culinary creatives.

Yemeni cafes are growing across the Twin Cities

At least five Yemeni shops have sprung up in the Twin Cities since 2025.

Move over, pumpkin spice latte — one of the hottest new coffee trends comes from Yemen.The buzz: In recent years, Yemeni-American cafe chains — including <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Qahwah House" data-vars-click-url="https://qahwahhouse.com/" data-vars-content-id="3fd638ef-c8d0-4da4-9e01-b98bdedc4d51" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes are growing across the Twin Cities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://qahwahhouse.com/" target="_blank">Qahwah House</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Qamaria" data-vars-click-url="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" data-vars-content-id="3fd638ef-c8d0-4da4-9e01-b98bdedc4d51" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes are growing across the Twin Cities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.qamariacoffee.com/" target="_blank">Qamaria</a>, and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Haraz Coffee House" data-vars-click-url="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" data-vars-content-id="3fd638ef-c8d0-4da4-9e01-b98bdedc4d51" data-vars-headline="Yemeni cafes are growing across the Twin Cities" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://harazcoffeehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorAPHjJ676lGpVjllchwZX3uUiyQQ1lzdtBZEwzF4rjdkF__SEF" target="_blank">Haraz Coffee House</a> — have percolated out from suburban Detroit to the Midwest and the rest of the country.

Restaurant Roundup: Barrel Theory's move, Maison Margaux's casual additions

Plus: What's next for the former Swede Hollow Cafe.

The former Lake Monster Brewing space at Vandalia Tower in St. Paul won&#x27;t stay closed for long.Driving the news: Barrel Theory Beer Company has announced it plans to move in, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Pioneer Press reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.twincities.com/2026/08/31/lake-monster-brewing-closes-barrel-theory-beer-company-to-take-its-place/" data-vars-content-id="6f0efc51-fc54-42be-8f48-92108bf1dbf7" data-vars-headline="Restaurant Roundup: Barrel Theory&#x27;s move, Maison Margaux&#x27;s casual additions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.twincities.com/2026/08/31/lake-monster-brewing-closes-barrel-theory-beer-company-to-take-its-place/" target="_blank">the Pioneer Press reports</a>.

St. Paul police chief sues mayor, alleging threats and retaliation

Police Chief Axel Henry accused Mayor Kaohly Her of making sexually tinged threats toward his job.

St. Paul Police Chief Axel Henry publicly accused <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mayor Kaohly Her" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/03/mayor-kaohly-her-homelessness-controversy-harassment-allegation" data-vars-content-id="1fe806f0-e396-49e8-a42d-d1750f11dd5a" data-vars-headline="St. Paul police chief sues mayor, alleging threats and retaliation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/08/03/mayor-kaohly-her-homelessness-controversy-harassment-allegation" target="_self">Mayor Kaohly Her</a> of making sexually tinged threats toward his job in a lawsuit filed against both the mayor and the city on Wednesday.Why it matters: Henry&#x27;s suit again threatens to upend St. Paul City Hall by making broader claims against Her, just days after an outside investigation <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="did not substantiate" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/09/18/probe-clears-st-paul-mayor-on-sexual-harassment-retaliation-accusations" data-vars-content-id="1fe806f0-e396-49e8-a42d-d1750f11dd5a" data-vars-headline="St. Paul police chief sues mayor, alleging threats and retaliation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/09/18/probe-clears-st-paul-mayor-on-sexual-harassment-retaliation-accusations" target="_blank">did not substantiate</a> a sexual harassment complaint against the mayor.<ul><li>Henry&#x27;s lawsuit also discloses new details about how badly his relationship with the mayor had deteriorated — including Henry&#x27;s belief that &quot;he was effectively ending his career&quot; by filing his sexual harassment complaint against Her.</li></ul>

Minnesota colleges earn F for campus free speech 

The U and Macalester earned F grades, while Carleton received a D- in FIRE's latest rankings.

Top Minnesota colleges are largely failing to create a healthy free speech climate on campus, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="according to a new national ranking" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/10/free-speech-collge-student-censorship" data-vars-content-id="bde5ea0e-6ca0-4567-acc5-e711354c7a94" data-vars-headline="Minnesota colleges earn F for campus free speech " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/10/free-speech-collge-student-censorship" target="_self">according to a new national ranking</a>.State of speech: Colleges and universities nationwide earned an average D- in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="this year&#x27;s report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fire.org/sites/default/files/2026/09/2027%20College%20Free%20Speech%20Rankings%20Report_Final.pdf" data-vars-content-id="bde5ea0e-6ca0-4567-acc5-e711354c7a94" data-vars-headline="Minnesota colleges earn F for campus free speech " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fire.org/sites/default/files/2026/09/2027%20College%20Free%20Speech%20Rankings%20Report_Final.pdf" target="_blank">this year&#x27;s report</a> from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE).<ul><li><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="In Minnesota" data-vars-click-url="https://rankings.fire.org/state/minnesota?demo=all&amp;year=2026" data-vars-content-id="bde5ea0e-6ca0-4567-acc5-e711354c7a94" data-vars-headline="Minnesota colleges earn F for campus free speech " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://rankings.fire.org/state/minnesota?demo=all&amp;year=2026" target="_blank">In Minnesota</a>, the average grade was an F.</li></ul>

Minneapolis council members propose requiring drivers in driverless cars 

A proposed ordinance revives Minnesota's debate over autonomous vehicles, jobs and public safety.

Transit

Four Minneapolis City Council members are moving to pump the brakes on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Waymo&#x27;s plans to launch driverless robotaxis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/20/waymo-minneapolis-cars-rollout-testing" data-vars-content-id="53dcf73b-2896-4b91-bc9c-4faec05fd9d9" data-vars-headline="Minneapolis council members propose requiring drivers in driverless cars " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/20/waymo-minneapolis-cars-rollout-testing" target="_self">Waymo&#x27;s plans to launch driverless robotaxis</a> on local roads.Why it matters: A proposed ordinance getting its first public hearing this month is the latest twist in a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="political fight" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/03/18/waymo-autonomous-vehicle-minnesota-labor-debate" data-vars-content-id="53dcf73b-2896-4b91-bc9c-4faec05fd9d9" data-vars-headline="Minneapolis council members propose requiring drivers in driverless cars " data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2026/03/18/waymo-autonomous-vehicle-minnesota-labor-debate" target="_self">political fight</a> over regulating autonomous vehicles in Minnesota. <ul><li>Competing proposals to regulate or ban the technology statewide stalled at the narrowly divided Legislature last spring.</li></ul>

Minnesota school funding amendment faces November vote

Education

Minnesotans will decide this November whether to send more cash from a 168-year-old trust to schools across the state. Why it matters: Supporters of the constitutional amendment, placed on the ballot with broad bipartisan support, say the proposal increases school funding without raising taxes.

Trump tariffs cost Minnesota $4.8 billion, report estimates

That comes to about $2,000 per household, according to a new economic analysis.

President Trump&#x27;s tariffs have cost Minnesota an estimated $4.8 billion since January 2025, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="according to a new analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://tariffs.org/minnesota/" data-vars-content-id="4f375428-446a-467a-a7f7-1b7b728b01c5" data-vars-headline="Trump tariffs cost Minnesota $4.8 billion, report estimates" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tariffs.org/minnesota/" target="_blank">according to a new analysis</a>. Why it matters: The report, Trade Partnership Worldwide for the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, underscores that while Trump&#x27;s tariffs are international, their economic impact is local.

Minnesota THC makers hold out hope for federal lifeline

A proposed one-month reprieve could create an opening for a broader fix.

Minnesota makers of hemp-derived THC seltzers and gummies are holding onto hope that Congress will <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="reverse a looming federal ban" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/10/shutdown-deal-kill-minnesota-thc-seltzer-edible-industry" data-vars-content-id="8c993550-a717-46c4-8229-756aaec9c807" data-vars-headline="Minnesota THC makers hold out hope for federal lifeline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/10/shutdown-deal-kill-minnesota-thc-seltzer-edible-industry" target="_self">reverse a looming federal ban</a> on their products — even as the legal limbo prompts some to scale back operations. Why it matters: The new federal policy, set to take effect in mid-November, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="would deal a serious blow" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/10/shutdown-deal-kill-minnesota-thc-seltzer-edible-industry" data-vars-content-id="8c993550-a717-46c4-8229-756aaec9c807" data-vars-headline="Minnesota THC makers hold out hope for federal lifeline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2025/11/10/shutdown-deal-kill-minnesota-thc-seltzer-edible-industry" target="_self">would deal a serious blow</a> to the state&#x27;s booming low-dose edibles market. <ul><li>The change could mean more financial strain for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="craft brewers, who&#x27;ve relied on the drinks to offset slumping booze sales," data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/06/26/craft-beer-minnesota-declines-thc-cocktails" data-vars-content-id="8c993550-a717-46c4-8229-756aaec9c807" data-vars-headline="Minnesota THC makers hold out hope for federal lifeline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/06/26/craft-beer-minnesota-declines-thc-cocktails" target="_self">craft brewers, who&#x27;ve relied on the drinks to offset slumping booze sales,</a> and fewer options for consumers. </li></ul>

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