Inspired
![Wealshire resident Lorraine Erdmann is surprised by fresh flowers from Jill McCarty, a volunteer with Bluebirds & Birds. ] LEILA NAVIDI ¥ leila.n](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/3P6LYNWXALBROSBLCSNMJHQP5Y.jpg?h=91&w=145&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
Childhood friends from Edina recycle flowers into bouquets of beauty for seniors
Their simple mission of giving a gift of recycled flowers has sprouted into a flourishing enterprise.
Inspired
![Lulete Mola spoke to the group of women assembled to choose microgrant recipients through the Young Women's Initiative. ] Shari L. Gross • shar](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/IUYVWFMRGB3RVEXLLJKPSDG5GI.jpg?h=91&w=145&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
These young women aren't waiting around to spark real change in Minnesota
Young women find guidance, connections and funding to become forces for change now.
Inspired
![Sarah Davis poses for a portrait at the Legal Rights Center in Minneapolis. ] LEILA NAVIDI ¥ leila.navidi@startribune.com BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Sar](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/KEQCBFG7GCKBISR3TWLMTN3L6Y.jpg?h=91&w=145&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
This passionate Minnesotan is on the frontlines to keep kids out of court
As associate director for Minneapolis' Legal Rights Center, Sarah Davis says the worst place for at-risk youth is in our court system.
Inspired
Minnesotan channels Rosie the Riveter to inspire kids with Somali refugee story
Her book, "It Only Takes One Yes," pushes children to make a difference in the world no matter their age.
Inspired
Help wanted: State Patrol seeks nontraditional applicants to fill growing need for troopers
Minnesota State Patrol beefing up its troops with nontraditional candidates
Inspired
Sports radio host laid mental health issues bare
Taunted by a listener, radio personality responded with candor.
Inspired
94-year-old is a supermarket bakery bagger with no plans to slow down
Wynnifred Franklin, 94, is a supermarket bakery bagger with no plans to stop.
Inspired
Late in life, Minnesotan taught himself taps to honor veterans
Gary Marquardt was dismayed after hearing a recorded rendition of taps played at a military funeral. So, four years ago, he learn to play.
Inspired
Twin Cities brain expert: Kids aren't trying to be bad (really!)
Tressa Reisetter's new book is called "Getting to Know Your Child's Brain."
Inspired
Minnesota's history of racial inequality displayed in first-of-its-kind YMCA center
YMCA's new training and experience space represents a bold public commitment to equity.
Inspired
She lost her engagement ring on a tropical beach. Weeks later, a stranger began digging.
They lost her engagement ring on the beach. Weeks later, a stranger began digging.
Inspired
Future doctors learning to put down charts, share personal stories
The "narrative health" approach to connecting with patients is gaining national momentum.
Inspired
'Sweetheart' cat reunited with owner after mysterious 1,110-mile journey to Florida
Only Bandit knows how he ended up 1,100 miles from his Michigan home.
Inspired
Twin Cities Lyft driver gives a hug, inspiring note to every one of her passengers
She started passing out handwritten notes in 2017 — a simple act — but one that many riders find deeply touching.
Inspired
Teen born with half a heart now dreams of becoming prima ballerina
She was not expected to live past age 12, and now dreams of becoming prima ballerina.
Inspired
Minneapolis sustainability group's founder has been living the 'sharing economy'
Leslie MacKenzie is co-founder of Transition Longfellow, a neighborhood sustainability group that has operated out of south Minneapolis since 2011.
Inspired
Inspired by Little Free Libraries, a free pantry helps feed hungry neighbors in St. Paul
North End resident's corner cabinet helps feed neighbors in need.
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Entertainment, arts and lifestyle news, commentary and features, including things to do and reviews from Minneapolis, St. Paul and Twin Cities venues.
