This week’s edition covers storiesÂ
from April 3rd to April 9th, 2025.
Today’s issue is 800 words, a 6.5-minute read.
Hey folks, Isabella here.
Dust off those e-bikes and scooters! They’re back, and ready to whiz us into (almost) patio season. Yes, those glorious 70-degree sunbeams are peeking through, melting away the winter blues like a discount sundae.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. The kids are meme-ing their way through it, but the reality bites: folks are struggling to afford the basics. Yet, the siren call of $20 cocktails and sweet treats remains strong, and who can blame them? A little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? Or maybe you’ve been glued to your couch, dissecting the cultural chaos of “The White Lotus” season 3. That show, with its jaw-dropping displays of wealth and that predictable, yet still somehow shocking, ending, has us all buzzing. Thai culture meets Western excess? It’s a recipe for both amusement and a healthy dose of “I told you so.” But seriously, where does this season rank in the “Lotus” lore? Was it a masterpiece, or a dramatic mess? And those unanswered questions… don’t even get us started. If you missed it, catch a review, and let’s debate the merits of those wild hotel stays.
City Hall Showdown:
Minneapolis Political Punch-Up
In local news, Minneapolis’ political scene is heating up! This November’s elections are a battle royale for City Hall, and the DFL endorsement process is kicking off with a bang. Think “Hunger Games” but with more lawn signs. Tuesday’s precinct meetings are just the beginning, where residents pick delegates for ward and citywide conventions later this year. Mayor Frey’s facing a six-way challenge, including State Sen. Fateh and Council Member Koski. Left-wing groups, fresh off a 2023 win, are aiming to tip the scales further. But remember, the DFL endorsement isn’t a golden ticket; PACs like Minneapolis for the Many and Frey-aligned groups are throwing serious cash around. Still, the DFL’s brand counts, especially in council races. Eight out of nine DFL-endorsed council candidates won in 2023, a better record than the big-spending PACs. Keep your eyes peeled for the ward conventions starting April 26 and the citywide convention in July!
With Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan also in the race, the DFL endorsement process will be competitive, but López Franzen is committed to taking her campaign directly to the people, offering a fresh perspective and vision for Minnesota and the nation.
Washington Wrangle:
Tariffs and Deportation Drama
Hold onto your hats, folks, because the Trump administration’s trade and immigration policies are serving up a spicy stew of chaos and legal wrangling. First, the trade saga: President Trump, in a move that could only be described as a geopolitical rollercoaster, initially unleashed a tariff tsunami, impacting over 180 countries. Then, he dialed back to a breezy 10% for most, citing a sudden surge of diplomatic sweet-talking from over 75 nations. But China? They got the full treatment, with tariffs skyrocketing to a jaw-dropping 125%, prompting a retaliatory 84% from Beijing. The markets, bless their fickle hearts, responded with a 7% leap, proving that even economic whiplash can be profitable.
Meanwhile, in the realm of immigration, two judges decided to play referee in Trump’s “alien enemies” deportation game. Seems the administration’s plan to swiftly boot alleged Venezuelan gang members, specifically Tren de Aragua, hit a legal brick wall. Even the Alien Enemies Act, a relic from the 18th century, has its limits. A Trump-appointed judge in Texas and a Clinton-appointed judge in New York both raised eyebrows at the administration’s “deport first, ask questions later” approach. One poor soul, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, was even mistakenly shipped off to El Salvador, highlighting the potential for “oops” moments in such sweeping actions.
Minneapolis Happenings:
Films, Vinyl, and Brews Galore!
Minneapolis is bursting with more events than a clown car at a circus! Film buffs, rejoice! The Minneapolis International Film Festival (MSPIFF44, if you’re fancy) is rolling out the red carpet, April 2-13, with 150+ films from 100+ cultures. Prepare for cinematic whiplash!
Record collectors, get your wallets ready! Electric Fetus is throwing down for Record Store Day, Saturday, April 12th. Expect exclusive vinyl, DJ grooves, and free grub. Basically, it’s a party where the soundtrack is always on point.
Also, on that very same Saturday, Inbound BrewCo is turning nine! They’re celebrating with an all-day beer bash, food trucks, DJ beats, and a Nirvana tribute band. Because, why not? Get ready to relive your grunge days while sipping some hops. And if you’re feeling the small business love, swing by Northeast Minneapolis for the Makers Market & Bar Hop. Shop local, drink local, and support those hardworking creators! Just follow the artisanal vibes.
Alright, folks, we’ve covered everything from e-bike etiquette to international trade wars, political showdowns to Nirvana tributes. Basically, it’s been a week that would make even Leslie Knope say, “That’s a lot of binders!” So, whether you’re debating “White Lotus” theories, prepping for a DFL delegate throwdown, or just trying to avoid a 125% tariff on your favorite Chinese takeout, remember: “We have to remember what’s important in life: friends, waffles, and work. Or waffles, friends, work. But work has to come third.” 1Â Now, go forth and conquer…or at least find a good patio.
Stay informed, stay connected.
See you next week!
–
Isabella and the NewPrensa team
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Hi, friend: Isabella and Mateo here!
We’re Communications Specialists by day and
filling out our March Madness brackets by night!
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