Inspired
![Nawal Noor, is the developer and general contractor for the remodel of Hosmer Library in South Minneapolis. ] GLEN STUBBE • glen.stubbe@startri](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/XVKM3566HMK7Q5U7QRYQ3UDQQI.jpg?h=91&w=145&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
Somali American is trailblazer in a construction field with few women, people of color
As a developer and general contractor, Nawal Noor is leading efforts to diversify the industry.
Inspired
Twin Cities' theater brings magical, free, puppet shows to backyards and parks
For 17 summers, the driveway tour has been roving through the Twin Cities to perform.
Inspired
New nonprofit Let Grow urges parents to land those helicopters and let kids be kids
How do we let go? Minnesota native Diane Redleaf has a suggestion: Practice.
Inspired
Senior walkers embrace idea of coming together for a common purpose
The groups drew inspiration from Moai, a tradition that began in Okinawa, Japan.
Inspired
Diner patrons treat WWII veteran to hearty breakfast every day
Patrons have been regularly paying for the 95-year-old's meal to thank him for his service.
Inspired
Minn. volunteer hits the road to get cancer patients where they need to be
Road to Recovery's Sally Brown has been a driving force for more than two decades
Inspired
Something on your mind? Volunteer Twin Cities group will listen without judgment
Sidewalk Talk Twin Cities brings a nonjudgmental ear to public spaces.
Inspired
Minnesota Tool Library offers savings by sharing 5,000 tools
The nonprofit, among the Twin Cities' best-kept secrets, offers classes to the public as well.
Inspired
It took her 22 years, but soldier-turned-body builder finally reached her goal
It all started with an old journal entry.
Inspired
Two nursing students' lives are linked by controversial death 30 years ago in Edina
The two students discovered that their families are connected through an alleged "mercy killing" from decades ago.
Inspired
After years raising her dead sister's five disabled sons, she's gifted with a new minivan
Sixteen years after taking in sister's five disabled sons, she's given new ride.
Inspired
Golden Valley-based Headwaters offers disaster relief with children's books
Storytelling can be a powerful tool in disaster recovery.
Inspired
![Susan Gethin shared an embrace with Norman Irving as they arrived in the visitation area at the state prison in Red Wing. ] Aaron Lavinsky ¥ aaro](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/3J6QEQXVKXDQWZZ4R62CPKPDFQ.jpg?h=91&w=145&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
Once homeless and now in prison, this Minnesotan still has his mentor from years ago in his corner
After landing in prison for aggravated robbery, Norman Irving is trying to turn his life around with the help of an old friend.
Inspired
![Pianists Noah Johnson (left) and Brandon Leu practiced one of their songs as teacher Diana Bearmon watched and listened. ] Shari L. Gross • sha](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/2TWLHXZIQLQUPBAG2QS4GQS77A.jpg?h=91&w=145&fit=crop&bg=999&crop=faces)
MacPhail musicians, one who is blind and one with autism, hit just the right note as a duo
They play off each other, creating "electricity between them."
Inspired
When 90-year-old's house caught fire, teens rushed in to save her
Homeowner couldn't find door through three-foot-high flames and smoke.
Inspired
Small-town Minnesota newspaper praised for defending immigrant community
A racist Facebook comment left on a photo of young graduates prompted an outpouring of support for Pelican Rapids' immigrant population.
Inspired
On world's largest private hospital ship, a Minn. filmmaker finds his calling — and future spouse
For 40 years, faith-based Mercy Ships has provided safe, free surgical care in West and Central Africa.
Inspired
At 78, this ballerina is still going strong: 'It's never too late to do something you love'
At 78, ballet instructor still laces up pointe shoes to teach classical ballet.
Inspired
Mother reunited with 'angel' nurse who saved her baby's life
A grateful mother uses social media to find and thank the nurse.
Inspired
Students champion voter registration in the halls of their own high schools
The outreach program encourages teens to vote.
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Variety
Entertainment, arts and lifestyle news, commentary and features, including things to do and reviews from Minneapolis, St. Paul and Twin Cities venues.
