Best friend Woody opens the world for Hazel
The specially trained golden Lab mix has made it safer for a little girl in Otsego, Minn., with intractable epilepsy.
Local
Gardeners are reclaiming vacant lots in north Minneapolis and turning them into bountiful gardens
Founders of R. Roots Garden in north Minneapolis are turning four vacant lots into an explosion of vegetables.
Inspired
A (bus) driving force for school kids
Retired ad executive Hal Barnes of Hudson, Wis., is spending quality time with those not worried about blood pressure or cholesterol and, in the process, gaining a fresh perspective on his own life.
Inspired
In Eden Prairie and beyond, fishing aficionados reel in memories
The nonprofit Let's Go Fishing is gearing up for another summer of free trips for seniors, youths, veterans and hospice patients across Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Inspired
Inspired
Commencements reflect wider access to college in prison
In years to come, there is likely to be a lot more pomp and circumstance in fortified compounds guarded by razor wire.
Inspired
Minnesota graduates thank 'amazing' teachers who helped them succeed
In another transitional year, graduating high school seniors thank the special people who taught them about math, music and meeting deadlines, but also about resilience and the courage to launch big dreams.
Inspired
From the Twin Cities to Africa: A better world for women, 'By Us'
Minnesota woman improves the lives of hundreds of single mothers and their children across the globe whose husbands vanished during periods of conflict.
Inspired
In Minneapolis, a mobile van rolls out with health care outreach to kids
With childhood vaccines declining by as much as 70%, health professionals at Hennepin Healthcare are taking it to the streets to keep kids healthy.
Inspired
Jail writing program helps reduce stress, clear heads, gain insights
While prison courses are intended to teach writing skills, this jail program has other goals.
Inspired
Teens fight for the right to read with 'banned-book clubs' and lawsuits
One book club wondered what other aspects of the world will remain hidden if grown-ups keep banning books.
Inspired
Zimbabwe's women-only rangers fight poachers and poverty
The unit is a rarity in a career dominated by men.
Inspired
Inspired
Pillow fort at Minneapolis church is more than just fluffy fun
The pillows donated for the fort will provide comfort for homeless families.
Inspired
Documentary showcases power of women, including its Minneapolis director
In Gabrieline Reece's documentary, local women share their thoughts on women's influence.
Inspired
At age 101, he finally gets his high school diploma
Trolley car driver in Philadelphia finally gets degree he craved.
Inspired
Inspired
With a little human help, monarchs are back, at least this year
After years of decline, nearly 250,000 monarch butterflies descended upon the Pacific Coast this winter.
Inspired
After losing everything in a house fire, the Rev. Jen Crow found healing in helping others
A bolt of lightning took everything but her precious family. The experience led the Minneapolis minister on a journey of self-discovery and resilience.
Inspired
A tiny Brontë book, sold for $1.25 million, to return home
Book of poems by a young Charlotte Bronte will return to the remote parsonage on the moors of northern England where it was made.
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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.
