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Sun Patriot

partner publisher · 1.2K followers
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B-Dubs a GO in Waconia as new site opens doors

Buffalo Wild Wings GO has opened a new restaurant at 144 Depot Drive in Waconia, the brand’s latest expansion in Minnesota as it pursues franchise growth across the state. Locally owned and operated by Matt Knodt and Lacey Pavek, the newest Buffalo Wild Wings GO location is the first in Waconia. BWWGO is built around takeout and delivery, so it’s a smaller version of B-Dubs serving the same wings, sauces and dry rubs Minnesotans have known from Buffalo Wild Wings for decades, say the owners. The smaller GO format allows it to reach towns like Waconia that never fit a full sports bar, company officials said. “Minnesota has been home to Buffalo Wild Wings for decades, and GO is giving us a new way to grow the brand in communities across the state,” said John Dawson, president of U.S. development at Inspire Brands. “Waconia is a great example of how well GO’s smaller format fits a growing community, and markets such as St. Paul, St. Cloud, Alexandria and Red Wing offer the same kind of opportunity. We’re excited to partner with operators who want to be part of GO’s next chapter in Minnesota.” With more than 220 standalone locations open

Waconia, MN · 2d

MIX 108

partner publisher · 18.3K followers
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Minnesota Man Guilty in YouTube Animal Cruelty Case

A federal jury in Minnesota has convicted a man for producing what prosecutors described as sadistic videos of animal cruelty.

Minnesota · 3d

Sun Patriot

partner publisher · 1.2K followers
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Immigrant-founded start-up latest venture from local couple

Juan Llerena emigrated to Waconia from Peru more than 25 years ago knowing very little about the culture or the business opportunities in this country. But he latched on at Mackenthun’s Fine Foods stocking shelves, and over the next several years advanced through the local grocery store organization eventually becoming its marketing director. He left there in 2021 to start his own business with his wife Guisela Pinto. It’s called JLLB Media, a consulting agency focused on marketing and business development. Primarily small businesses and nonprofits with a special focus on Latino and diverse businesses — persons like himself when he was navigating unfamiliar territory The couple also helped launch a fair-trade gift shop, offering sustainable fashion, home decor, and global accessories from small-scale artisans in developing countries to help them gain new markets and fair prices for their goods. And they founded a home daycare business “Bienvenidos Home Daycare” which operated in Waconia from 2019-2025. Now Llerena has started Vamos Impact, a Carver County–based 501©(3) nonprofit launched in late 2025. Vamos means “let’s go,” an encouraging phrase reflective of its two-pronged mission. The first, bilingual business coaching, delivering free, hands-on business workshops, digital marketing strategy, AI technology training and

Waconia, MN · 1d

islands.com

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Goodbye Lake Superior, So Long Lake Minnetonka: This Minnesota Gem Is A Freshwater Fishing Paradise

It's not for nothing that Minnesota has been dubbed the "Land of 10,000 Lakes." The North Star State is a fisherman's oasis, with places like Duluth offering access to Lake Superior, while folks in the Twin Cities can escape to Lake Minnetonka. Still, as serene as their natural beauty may be, summer crowding can be an issue. However, if you prefer a secluded fishing retreat off the beaten path and away from Minnesota's major cities, then say goodbye to these two destinations and hello to Little Jessie Lake. This body of water is located in Itasca County, in what is referred to as "Up North" by locals.

Minnesota · 3d
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MIX 108

partner publisher · 18.3K followers

All Of The Announced 2027 Concerts At Minnesota's Mystic Lake Amphitheater

After a wildly successful inaugural season in 2026, here's a look at all of the scheduled shows announced for 2027 at the outdoor venue.

Shakopee, MN · 1d

delanoheraldjournal.com

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Delano’s first marijuana dispensary opens at Flippin’ Bills

Delano’s first marijuana dispensary is now open at Flippin’ Bills. High Society opened Oct. 9 after months of planning, construction and state licensing, said Niel Patel, owner of Flippin’ Bills and director of retail operations for the dispensary. The business occupies the former truckers lounge at the convenience store.

Delano, MN · 2d

unearththevoyage.com

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In Small-Town Lester Prairie, Near Hutchinson, Garbers’ Meats Is A Butcher Shop Worth The Drive Through Minnesota Farm Country

Smoked salmon is one of the most talked-about items at a small butcher shop in the middle of Minnesota corn country. That alone made me stop scrolling. The surprises keep stacking up. This little meat counter also turns out jerky, cheddar brats, old-fashioned wieners, and bologna with a loyal following.

Lester Prairie, MN · 6d

Carver County Local News

partner publisher · 379 followers

Longtime Wine Shop Moves into Chaska Depot Building

Chaska’s historic depot has sprung back to life following a damaging fire on June 30, 2025. The newest anchor tenant is River Bend Cellars & Spirits, formerly Excelsior Vintage, which has moved from its previous location on Highway 7.

Chaska, MN · 2d

fox9.com

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Minneapolis renters ask where rent goes as landlord tops $1M in unpaid utility bills

On Thursday, Minneapolis voted to send more than $12 million in delinquent water, sewer and trash bills to Hennepin County to add to property tax bills. City records show Fine Associates owes more than $1 million at five properties, including two downtown apartment buildings with bills of $505,000 and $363,000.

Minneapolis, MN · 20h

MinnPost

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Frazier won the race for Hennepin County Attorney, but his slim margins are revealing

Hennepin County Attorney-elect Cedrick Frazier owes a debt of gratitude to residents of Minneapolis. The legislator and former public defender won 62% of votes within city limits, earning as many as 86% in a precinct in the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood. Still, he couldn’t have scored the very narrow win over his...

Hennepin County, MN · 2d

Laker Pioneer

partner publisher · 844 followers

Ribbon-cutting held at Maple Plain's Daily Store

On Friday, Oct. 23, the I-94 West Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Daily Store. The Daily Store opened its doors at 4914 Gateway Boulevard in Maple Plain on April 14. The family-owned and operated discount store offers a wide variety of products, including snacks, drinks, cleaning supplies, home goods, toys, diapers, clothing, and more. Their inventory is limited and constantly changing. “We’re very excited to be in the Maple Plain community where we’ll be offering great deals to the West Metro daily,” said owner Kyle Wauters. Mayor Julie Maas-Kusske said she is glad the Daily Store calls Maple Plain home. She noted how friendly the staff is and how fun it is to see the family dog Dakota inside the store.

Maple Plain, MN · 6h

Press & News

partner publisher · 1.8K followers

Holiday train to make vibrant return to Buffalo, Loretto this December

The sights and sounds of the holiday season will roll through Wright and Hennepin County on Wednesday, Dec. 16, when the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Holiday Train makes stops in nearby Buffalo, Loretto and Annandale, bringing live entertainment and Christmas cheer while helping to fight hunger. Now in its 28th year, the brightly decorated train will chug into Loretto from 4:30 to 5 p.m. at the County Road 19 railway crossing. It will later visit Buffalo from 6 to 6:30 p.m. at Fifth Street Northeast, followed by Annandale from 7:30 to 8 p.m. at Downtown Park on Harrison Street. Each stop will feature a free, approximately 30-minute concert by Canadian singer-songwriters Jamie Fine and Shawnee Kish. Fine, an Ottawa native and five-time Juno Award nominee, has amassed more than 100 million global music streams. Her platinum-selling single “If Anything’s Left” helped establish her as a rising pop artist known for emotionally candid songwriting and energetic performances. Kish, a Mohawk, Two-Spirit singer-songwriter, blends country, Americana and rock influences with powerful vocals and personal storytelling. A four-time Juno Award nominee, she earned a 2026 Canadian Country Music Association nomination for Alternative Country Album of the Year. Her single “Ride At Dawn” reached

Loretto, MN · 2d

Country Herald

publisher · 13.9K followers

Minnesota Weather Alert: Minneapolis Drops to 22° Nov 13-19

Minneapolis faces freezing nights in the low 20s before temperatures rebound into the mid-50s next week.

Minneapolis, MN · 1d

KSTP 5 Eyewitness News Minneapolis-St. Paul MN

partner publisher · 23.5K followers

High School Football: Centennial moves on to 6A semifinals with win over top seed Shakopee

Centennial is headed to the Class 6A state semifinals after surviving a defensive battle and defeating Shakopee 10-6 in a state quarterfinal game Friday night at Farmington high school. KSTP Sports was there. ***Click the video box above to watch our highlights*** The Cougars took the lead just before halftime when quarterback Jack Wiste connected […]

Shakopee, MN · 17h

rrfn.com

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Putting on Face on Ag Issues

Election results may change who’s making decisions, but the priorities for Minnesota agriculture remain. Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation Vice President Carolyn Olson says the organization is ready to work with newly elected and returning lawmakers. “Whether you lean left or lean right, you’re going to be excited or you’re going to be disappointed,” said Olson. “Farm Bureau is a nonpartisan organization and I think that is one of our strengths as well.” Building relationships at the Capitol is only part of the job. “Putting a face on an issue is one of the best things we can do.” MFBF is hosting its annual meeting, starting Thursday in Minnetonka.

Minnesota · 8h

Laker Pioneer

partner publisher · 844 followers

'Tis the season: Holiday events slated across area

Holiday festivities are arriving early in the Westonka area this year. Mound and Minnetrista will kick off the season with community tree-lighting celebrations the week before Thanksgiving, while the Gillespie Center has several holiday events planned, including its Family Turkey Bingo, Holiday Boutique, and Brunch with Santa. Minnetrista Holiday Tree Lighting Minnetrista’s fourth annual Holiday Tree Lighting is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Minnetrista City Campus. Santa will arrive by fire truck at 5:30 p.m. and will be available for free photos with attendees. The tree lighting ceremony will follow at 5:45 p.m., with a fireworks display planned for 6:45 p.m. Food, beer and wine will be available for purchase in a heated tent. Complimentary hot cocoa and hot cider will also be served, and fire troughs and music will help create a cozy atmosphere. Parking will be available at WRA Park, 7201 County Road 110 W., with shuttles running every 10 minutes to the City Campus. Westonka Connect Tree Lighting Santa will be making back-to-back appearances in Westonka as he rolls into downtown Mound with fire and police escorts Thursday, Nov. 19, for the 43rd annual Connect Westonka Tree Lighting at Lost

Mound, MN · 14h

Sahan Journal

partner publisher · 12.1K followers

After Operation Metro Surge, Minnesota families face another strain: winter energy bills

For the many families still recovering from the effects of months of immigration enforcement in Minnesota earlier this year, the impacts of rising energy costs are another challenge to manage this winter. Community-serving organizations say they are seeing requests for help navigating Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program earlier this year and...

Minnesota · 2d

Herald And Journal

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CLASS A STATE VOLLEYBALL: B-B-E stymies Mayer Lutheran with upset win

ST. PAUL — The goal of a third-straight state championship came to a close for the Mayer Lutheran volleyball team. The Crusaders came in as one of three teams this year looking defend their state title but Belgrage-Brooten-Elrosa had other plans. The Jaguars, who lost to Mayer Lutheran in...

Mayer, MN · 1d

MinnesotaSportsFan

partner publisher · 2.8K followers

After Stunning No. 1 Moorhead, Prior Lake Seeks Another Minnesota Football Upset

Once 0-4, the Lakers have won six straight games and now face Rosemount in a Class 6A state quarterfinal rematch […]

Prior Lake, MN · 2d

Sun Patriot

partner publisher · 1.2K followers

SECTION CHAMPS: Crusaders flip the script in rematch

The Mayer Lutheran football team had a stellar 2026 season, scoring nearly 40 points per game, cruising past almost every opponent in their way. There was one road bump however, a 35-7 loss to Cleveland. That lone loss did not sit well with the Crusaders, and when they got their chance to avenge that loss, they jumped at the opportunity with a ferociousness that sends them on to the Class A State Tournament. “Our kids wanted revenge from the last game, and they played like it,” said coach Dean Aurich. The Crusaders got on top of Cleveland from the start, and left no doubt on who would win the rematch from the outset. Mayer Lutheran’s defense was stifling, forcing six turnovers. Gabriel Shimanski, Chase Zupke and Preston Vanderwater each had an interception, with Zupke and Vanderwater returning theirs for touchdowns. Jonah Aurich, Isaac Whitby and Reid Baumann each caused a fumble, with Jack Friske, Mason Lunow and Cooper Getten recovering a fumble. “Our defense attacked them so quickly, they just couldn’t get any rhythm going and caused two turnovers that were huge — pick sixes that went all the way,” said Aurich. “Our defense just took them out of their

Mayer, MN · 22h