Entertainment & Culture

Robert Duvall's best movie wasn't 'Apocalypse Now' — here are his top 10, ranked

Before he became one of Hollywood's most respected character actors, Robert Duvall was a California-born Navy brat who studied drama at Principia College. After serving in the U.S. Army, Duvall moved …

Turf battle in the NFL: Natural vs. artificial grass

LawnStarter reports on the NFL's ongoing debate over natural grass vs. artificial turf, highlighting player safety concerns and increased injuries on turf. 

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Time traveler, Ann Frances Gregg, introduces people to Minnesota’s new flag during the Fringe production of “A Woman’s Place is in the House.” The author hopes another entity will pick up a longer version of the play featuring four ground-breaking women who were the first to serve in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
‘A Woman’s Place is in the House’
The political views and actions of the first Minnesota women to be elected to the House of Representatives in 1922 were told in a recent Minnesota Fringe play. “A Woman’s Place is in the …
“Ruunta,” a story about Somali’s living in Minneapolis, debuted at MSPIFF in April.
Meet three Somali film directors
The number of young Somali film directors participating in this year’s Minneapolis St. Paul International Film Festival (MSPIFF) reflects the growth of the Somali film community in the Twin Cities. …
Jen Ohm takes a selfie with Jeremy Messersmith and her husband alongside friends at their 2024 backyard concert. During the first show, she said, “I just sat there with my mouth agape the whole time. Like, ‘I can't believe it. Jeremy's in my backyard.’ (Photo submitted)
Messersmith needs a crowd
Longfellow resident Jeremy Messersmith sang the chorus of his new song “Boomers” to a crowd at the Union Depot for the Train Days Music Fest. “Just relax, sip your wine, stay alive, and wait …
From left, Lori Greene, Tara Nielson and Alissa Winfield install a mosaic at The Bush Foundation last summer.
Artists create public art for healing environments
Local artists are using their work as a tool for many victims, witnesses, and community members who may need healing following Operation Metro Surge. These artists include Ken Rivera, Lori Greene, …
According to HERD founders Amy Brendmoen and Gretchen Sage-Martinson (at right) “The stories women are telling on stage connect to every one of us listening to them. Through the vulnerability of the women sharing their true stories - the whole room grows stronger, feels more understood, more connected to each other. We know we are not alone.” The group of 10 women standing with them are the first storytellers at the first HERD event in April 2025 at Urban Growler Brewery. (Photo by Tesha M. Christensen)
Building the HERD
Two lifelong friends are carving out space for women to be ‘herd.’ Amy Brendmoen and Gretchen Sage-Martinson met working as summer staff at YMCA Camp St. Croix in the late 1980s, and they’ve …
Sports News

Airlines bet big on sports travel boom

The Points Guy reports airlines are expanding routes to capitalize on the booming sports travel market, with fans seeking premium experiences for games.
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Mary Bloom, a Como resident, has been a dining hall volunteer since the 1980s.
They make the Hamline Church dining hall happen
The 2026 Minnesota State Fair is now in the history books, ending on Labor Day. The end means that a large corps of volunteers gets to put away special volunteer garb for another year. The name tags, …
Can we get a little commotion for vanilla? It's having a moment – and Minnesota is here for it
Chocolate may get most of the attention, but vanilla is quietly making a statement — and Minnesota is helping lead the way.  A new University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and …
Students make and eat ice cream while learning about thermodynamics.
Fifth graders learn about science of ice cream
After a year full of engaging and joyful partnerships, Hamline Elementary and Hamline University ended 2025 with exciting collaborations in science and art. It’s not everyday you see liquid …
LifeJuices owner Kali Terry
Life Juices, Vikings and Goddess Pie honored by city
The Saint Paul City Council announces the nineth annual Saint Paul Business Awards winners. They will recognize the five winners and celebrate the efforts of Saint Paul business owners at the City …
Supporting neighbors with food drive at Hamline
Hamline Elementary and Hamline University are enjoying another year of partnership through the Hamline to Hamline Collaboration. So far this year we’ve welcomed PreK-5th graders to campus for a …
Entertainment 2026
Football head injuries may cause low testosterone years later
Hone Health reports that head injuries in football can lead to pituitary damage, resulting in low testosterone, fatigue, and mood changes in players long after injuries.
Why youth sports fields are struggling to stay playable
Navimow reports on the staffing shortages affecting youth sports fields, and the steps taken to maintain facilities amid rising demand.
11 great US tailgating destinations for football fans
RealTruck.com reports on 11 top US tailgating destinations for football fans, highlighting unique experiences, local flavors, and team traditions for unforgettable game days.
How scammers are already targeting NFL fans this season
PeopleFinders reports that NFL fans are being targeted by scammers through fake ticket sales, fraudulent fantasy leagues, phishing schemes, and fake betting sites. 
Who would win the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards if the data decided?
Viberate reports that if data determined the winners, Taylor Swift would lead Artist of the Year, "Golden" would win Song of the Year, and CORTIS would take Best New Artist at the 2026 MTV VMAs.

Will America's soccer boom last? What Google Trends says

Bodog reports that search interest in soccer peaked during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising questions about whether this soccer boom will last or fade away like previous trends.

1 in 3 older adults feel lonely. Here's how pickleball may be helping

LifeStance Health reports that pickleball, America's fastest-growing sport, helps combat loneliness in older adults by fostering social connections and enhancing mental well-being.

5 unsung films that dramatize America’s rich labor history

Inspired by real events, the films tackle issues of race, gender and class in ways that will resonate with many of today’s viewers.

Which artists are building momentum beyond Spotify?

Viberate reports on mid-sized artists gaining momentum across multiple platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and radio, highlighting Gat Putch, Kidd Carder, and Wyatt Flores as key examples. 

Splitting your 2026 festival tickets into payments? Here’s how to do it right

Intuit TurboTax reports that using buy-now-pay-later for summer expenses can be a smart choice, helping people prioritize experiences over traditional milestones.

How the 2026 World Cup shifted sleep, stress, and activity across the globe, according to Oura data

Oura reports that the 2026 World Cup affected sleep quality, stress, and activity levels globally, revealing late bedtimes and increased physiological stress metrics during the matches.

Pop Culture

10 science-backed ways to lower your golf score and stay safe on hot days

BendPak reports 10 tips for golfers to lower their scores and stay safe in hot weather, emphasizing proper hydration, clothing, and awareness of heat risk.

World Cup fever has changed American attitudes toward soccer

247Bet reports that a survey indicates the 2026 World Cup significantly boosted American interest in soccer, with over 25% watching for the first time. 
Why cycling fans are traveling to watch the world’s biggest races in person
EF Adventures reports that cycling fans are increasingly traveling to watch major races live, drawn by the unique landscapes and experiences of the sport.
Why some sports cards become pieces of history
Certified Collectibles Group reports that sports cards, once simple collectibles, can carry deep emotional and historical significance, reflecting eras, athletes, and cultural values.
How AI is changing soccer from the ground up
XbotGo reports AI is revolutionizing soccer, enhancing talent discovery and training through automated tracking, analytics, and accessibility for all players.
The bras of 'Off Campus': Why the show's lingerie styling is sparking a bigger conversation about fit
Felina reports that "Off Campus" has sparked discussions about lingerie fit, showcasing bras that support various bust sizes authentically.
Streaming sports: What TV technology makes for the best game day viewing
TCL reports modern TV shopping is complex, focusing on features like brightness and smart technology for optimal sports viewing.