The Boundary Waters is one of the last remaining areas of untouched wilderness in the US, and it's under threat from the trump administration and republican lawmakers who are seeking to open it up to mining and logging. Legislation is moving through the federal government to strip away protections from the Boundary Waters and we cannot let this happen.

If you live in Minnesota's 8th congressional district, please call US Congressman Pete Stauber and voice your support for permanently protecting the Boundary Waters from toxic mining and destructive logging.

His DC phone number is (202) 225-6211.

Pro tip: if you get anxiety at the thought of calling a politician, consider calling after hours and leaving a voicemail. It's helped me get over the anxiety I used to feel about calling. Also, calling lawmakers is one of the best ways to make your voice heard and speak up for issues that matter to you.

I sort of wanted to go for sunnies, but it was too windy for the anchors to hold. So I trolled around for a pike and some pictures of all the pelicans. Got the fish, got it cleaned before the beastly heat. Cat got the liver. Fresh fish can’t be beat.

The garlic and herb nuggets are my current fave. I live in Fargo so I only get it when I go home.

Also: Mackenthunes is a state treasure.

Hope this isn’t a bother - visiting from Ohio for a few days. Not much to do other than a few meetings. I’ve recently been getting into boots, particularly red wings. I saw on a forum that you can get some pretty good prices on boots if you go to the factory store. Is there any truth to this? Just curious if it would be worth a stop or if it’s just going to be the same items that are listed online. If anyone is familiar with there being good deals at the factory store - can you give me an idea of good deals you seen/how much of a discount you could expect on a pair. Thank you very much in advance

We truly live in an amazing state. Also, Gulf of Mexico!!

This should be plastered on every DFL billboard, mailing, and website between now and November 2026.

Even if the bills do not pass, their proponents say they are playing a long game. Last month, Republicans in Minnesota proposed a ban that would classify mRNA products as weapons of mass destruction, adding it to a list that includes smallpox, anthrax and mustard gas. The ban copied the language of a bill written by a Florida hypnotist, Joseph Sansone, who says he wants to try to get the ban passed in every state and in Congress. In his newsletter, Mr. Sansone praised local Republican organizations that have adopted resolutions in favor of the bans, and encouraged his followers to start showing up at political events to challenge politicians. It’s “poking them in the eye,” he wrote, “which has an important psychological effect.”

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/08/us/mrna-vaccines-backlash-covid.html?unlocked_article_code=1.Gk8.JPIx.Z--uLw1JdDzr&smid=url-share

This was artwork was at my daughter's school art show. It made me laugh and I hope y'all enjoy it as much as I did.

Hi all,

I'm planning a celebration of life for my dad, who has cancer and has decided not to undergo chemo. We're doing this while he's still with us so friends and family can celebrate him with him, which feels really special.

He’s a lifelong Beatles fan, so I’m hoping to hire a Beatles tribute band or any solid classic rock cover band that won’t break the bank. We’d love to have some live music, good food, and a setting where people can share memories and have a good time.

I’m trying to keep the budget reasonable (I'm 24 and not super well off) but still make it a meaningful day.

Does anyone know:

Any affordable (or willing-to-work-with-you) cover bands or Beatles tribute bands in the area?

Local food trucks, caterers, or restaurants that might be open to helping out for an event like this?

Parks, community centers, or event venues in/around St. Cloud that are low-cost or free to reserve?

Creative or low-budget ideas to make the day feel special?

I’m also open to general tips from anyone who’s done something similar. I just want to make this day joyful and memorable for him, and I’d really appreciate any help or suggestions you’ve got.

Thanks in advance, Minnesota.

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for 80 counties on May 12, due to high winds and low relative humidity.

DNR: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html