A majority of Americans say they want the country to play a significant role in global affairs. Far fewer, especially among Democrats, want us to take a lead role. GALLUP: https://fluence-media.co/4rbeQ6s
Sports Take today…Howard Sinker guides us through an overstuffed week of sports – maybe the busiest of the year – and suggests how to juggle the state hockey tournament, Gophers, Tommies, Paralympians, Vikings free agents, NCAA playoffs and more. Coming this afternoon, relevant all week.
The new Drought Monitor out this morning shows the situation worsening in Minnesota – 68% of the state is now abnormally dry with 36% in formal drought status. MAP: https://fluence-media.co/3PP2Kzy
When Target execs met with investors this week, one word was spoken 17 times: delight. READ: https://fluence-media.co/4skt6L0
Follow the 2026 Minnesota election’s up close with the Fluence ElectionTracker. FluenceElectionTracker.com
Today’s WCCO Radio morning take at 6:20 with Vineeta Sawkar. LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4b5fFrf
Sunday Take discussed the future of mining on the Iron Range with GOP Rep. Spencer Igo, DFL Sen. Grant Hauschild and Mining Minnesota CEO Julie Lucas. LISTEN: https://fluence-media.co/4seg0ij
Blois
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A BUSY THURSDAY…
VALLEYFAIR: Via Six Flags, VERBATIM: “Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, today announced it has entered into definitive agreements to sell seven of its parks (including Valleyfair) to EPR Properties (NYSE: EPR) for total cash consideration of $331 million, subject to customary purchase price adjustments.” QUOTE: “This move allows Six Flags to concentrate on the parks that we believe offer the greatest opportunities for growth and long-term success.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aS0umx
CD8: Via Northern News Now, VERBATIM: “A longtime Iron Range surgeon has announced a run for Congress. Dr. Wendell Smith said he will seek the DFL nomination to challenge Republican Rep. Pete Stauber in Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3N0xVdy
23A: Via KAAL-TV, VERBATIM: “A current Albert Lea city councilmember has announced he will be running as a Republican candidate for the Minnesota House District 23A. Keith Van Beek announced his candidacy Thursday morning for the seat currently held by Rep. Peggy Bennett. Rep. Bennett has announced she will be running for Minnesota governor in 2026.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4sjKQpY
FARM BILL: Via Politico, VERBATIM: “The House Agriculture Committee advanced the Republican-led farm bill in a 34-17 vote early Thursday after a marathon markup that was clouded by partisan fighting about the package. The legislation was backed by seven of the panel’s Democrats: Jim Costa (Calif.), Sharice Davids (Kan.), Don Davis (N.C.), Gabe Vasquez (N.M.), Adam Gray (Calif.), Kristen McDonald Rivet (Mich.) and Josh Riley (N.Y.).” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4ucD0A9
RESPONSE: Via House Ag Democrats, from Ranking Member Angie Craig on the markup of the farm bill, CRAIG: “I came into this Congress with the sincere hope that we could get a five-year, 12-title farm bill across the finish line – with the farm and hunger coalition that has so successfully worked together so many times before. As we walked through each of these titles over the course of the last two days, it’s clear what a shell of a farm bill this bill truly is. The farm programs funded in the so-called Big Beautiful Bill would have been supported by the minority in this bill.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4coAjoK
RESPONSE: Via National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, from CEO Ted McKinney, QUOTE: “NASDA supports this legislation and congratulates Chairman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson and members of the House Agriculture Committee for moving the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 forward,” McKinney said. “Advancing this legislation out of committee with a bipartisan vote marks an important step toward delivering the certainty and support America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities urgently need.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aWRJpW
TARGET: Via Target, VERBATIM: “Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) today announced plans to open more than 30 new stores in 2026, including its 2,000th location in Fuquay-Varina, N.C. The openings are part of a new chapter in the company’s strategy to drive long-term, sustainable growth by investing in stores. This includes plans to add more than 300 new stores by 2035, with seven locations welcoming guests this March as part of the company’s continued expansion.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4aS2dZ3
EARNINGS: Via Associated Press, from Minnesota-based companies:
TORO: “Toro Co. (TTC) on Thursday reported fiscal first-quarter profit of $67.9 million. On a per-share basis, the Bloomington, Minnesota-based company said it had net income of 69 cents . . . The results topped Wall Street expectations . . . The landscaping, maintenance and irrigation equipment maker posted revenue of $1.04 billion in the period.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/46DzvIX
STRATASYS: “Stratasys Ltd. (SSYS) on Thursday reported a loss of $18.9 million in its fourth quarter. The Minnetonka, Minnesota-based company said it had a loss of 22 cents per share . . . The results beat Wall Street expectations . . . The maker of 3D printers posted revenue of $140 million in the period, also topping Street forecasts.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4b8dJ1u
BROADBAND: Comcast is rewriting the broadband playbook in the Twin Cities. From neighborhood networks to next-gen tech, we’re delivering community-first internet connectivity with no contracts, no surprises. The new Xfinity package means unlimited data, blazing-fast, reliable speeds and a 5-year price guarantee, plus free mobile for a year. It’s not the old Comcast — it’s a bold new era of connection. Let’s power the future, together. LEARN MORE: https://fluence-media.co/Comcast2025-1 (SPONSORED: Comcast)
THE DRIVE
DRIVE-THRUS: Via KMSP-TV, VERBATIM: “The St. Paul City Council voted Wednesday to allow new drive-thrus, but restricted where they could be added. Big picture view: New drive-thrus in St. Paul will have to abide by zoning restrictions that prevent them from opening in downtown St. Paul as well as high-frequency transit areas. They also cannot be added to stand-alone buildings.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3Ph4ftc
GAS: Via Axios, VERBATIM: “Gasoline prices are jumping as oil prices spike following the U.S. and Israel strikes on Iran, reflecting market fears of extended geopolitical upheaval. Why it matters: Americans use about 370 million gallons of gas per day, so price increases have an immediate effect on their pocketbook and mood about the economy. State of the pumps: The average price of unleaded gas in Minnesota hit $3.07 per gallon Wednesday, according to AAA, up 29 cents from a week ago.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4skffnY
MORE: From AAA:
The AAA site also includes a map showing current prices around the state. NUMBERS: https://fluence-media.co/3ORAi2T
AIRPORT: Via MAC, VERBATIM: “The first wave of 2026 spring break travelers is already arriving at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) for the year’s first major vacation season. MSP is expected to serve more than 3.3 million passengers over a five-week period ending April 6. Fridays and Sundays in March are expected to be the busiest days, with more than 46,000 travelers passing through security each day. Two new highly anticipated concession venues will open in the center area of Terminal 2 over the next week in time for the spring boost.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4bq6eEf
CLEAN | RELIABLE | AFFORDABLE: Via Xcel Energy, VERBATIM: “We’re powering the Upper Midwest with clean, reliable, and affordable nuclear energy. For more than 50 years, our Prairie Island Nuclear Plant, located near Red Wing, MN, has been a workhorse of reliable, carbon-free energy. With two pressurized water reactors producing about 1,100 megawatts, Prairie Island generates enough electricity to power 1.5 million homes across the Upper Midwest. Unlike sources that depend on weather, nuclear energy delivers 24/7 reliability—providing the power we need today while protecting the environment for tomorrow.” LEARN MORE: https://fluence-media.co/4oCHdK9 (SPONSORED: Xcel Energy)
FEDS SURGE
TAXES: Via WCCO-TV, VERBATIM: “The impacts of the ICE surge and any sort of accountability measures for some of the agents’ actions — whether that’s allowing Minnesotans to sue if their constitutional rights are violated or banning them from wearing masks — are top priorities for Democrats at the Minnesota Capitol this year. On Wednesday, a bill in the House taxes committee would require those agents who weren’t Minnesota residents but made more than $15,000 in wages while working here to file a Minnesota tax return.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4cuCzec
GREATER MN: Via MPR, VERBATIM: “While the surge of federal agents in the Twin Cities grabbed much of the attention the past few months, stories of children hiding at home, crying in class and being detained have quietly gripped some Minnesota small towns since January. In Willmar, more than 1,000 students stayed home from school as federal immigration agents flooded Minnesota in January and February. In St. Cloud, agents trailed high schoolers and detained a school staff member. In Northfield and Goodhue County, educators say fear of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement was easy to see in classrooms and across the community.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4cuLTi6
MINNEAPOLIS: Via Bring Me The News, VERBATIM: “As Operation Metro Surge continues to wind down, a North Loop restaurant famous for its freshly made pasta is making a simple, but desperate plea to patrons: Please come back downtown. In an email to customers, the owners of Dario say they are struggling and make what they call ‘an urgent request.’” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4soDscN
CHAVEZ: Via Minnesota Reformer, VERBATIM: “While some elected Democrats chose to combat the swarm of immigration agents in Minnesota through traditional politicking — e.g. Gov. Tim Walz holding press conferences and negotiating behind-the-scenes with Trump administration border czar Tom Homan, or Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey pleading his case on the national media circuit — [Minneapolis City Council Member Jason Chavez] flung himself into the middle of an ongoing conflict that has made the city feel, at times, like a war zone . . . For Chavez, the battle is personal: Two of his uncles were deported during Operation Metro Surge — one in December, another in January.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3OQgoFx
CAMP: Via Sahan Journal, VERBATIM: “Three weeks after a group of Native activists set up a prayer camp of tipis at Coldwater Spring within sight of the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, the National Park Service and a group of tribal leaders are asking them to leave. NPS employees distributed a notice to those at the camp on Wednesday, giving them 24 hours to clear the site. That followed a meeting between tribal leaders from Minnesota, North and South Dakota, and camp occupants, where leaders explained the sacred nature of the site and asked for them to take down the camp.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/40IG2yv
MINNESOTA’S ATV RIDERS ARE YOUR CONSTITUENTS: Last September, hundreds of riders joined the ATV Minnesota President’s Ride — families, veterans, small business owners, and volunteers from across the state. They represent thousands of Minnesotans who responsibly use and maintain Minnesota’s ATV trail system. As decision makers evaluate trail policy, funding, and land-use decisions this session, we invite you to hear directly from the people they represent. LEARN MORE: https://fluence-media.co/4u4dGw9 (SPONSORED: ATV Minnesota)
EDUCATION
AI: Via UofM, VERBATIM: “The University of Minnesota today announced the launch of its AI Hub, a University-wide initiative to advance artificial intelligence innovation, education and workforce development across Minnesota. Building on decades of leadership in computing and data science, the AI Hub will serve as the University’s central engine for AI strategy and impact — aligning education, research and external partnerships under a cohesive strategy.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4bbUa8r
HOPKINS: Via CCX Media, VERBATIM: “The Hopkins School Board hopes to have a new superintendent named this spring. Current Superintendent Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed announced in December 2025 that she’s not renewing her contract and will wrap up her duties this June.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3MX5Js3
WILD ABOUT READING: Join more than 800 Minnesota classrooms and 30,000 students participating in the “Wild About Reading” program, a partnership with Flint Hills Resources which encourages students to read more using Minnesota Wild-branded posters, reading logs, and bookmarks. Teachers set weekly reading goals and give certificates to students who complete the four-week program. Fun program incentives include classroom visits from the Wild’s mascot, Nordy – and the team dog, Paulie; a pair of tickets to a Wild home game, player signed pucks and photos; and a pizza party for a classroom. LEARN MORE: Wild About Reading (SPONSORED: Flint Hills Resources Pine Bend refinery)
AROUND MINNESOTA
DATA CENTER: Via Northern News Now, VERBATIM: “The announcement of Google as the company behind a proposed Hermantown data center has drawn praise from business leaders and continued criticism from opponents. While proponents praise the project for the economic boost it will give the region and the jobs it will create, construction jobs created by the project will far outweigh full-time positions at the data center.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4bqAXB2
EAGAN: Via Perham-based Arvig, VERBATIM: “Arvig is expanding its Twin Cities network footprint after finalizing an agreement to interconnect with a new data center currently under construction in Eagan, Minn. Under a partnership with Centra, Arvig will lease co-location space and construct diverse fiber routes into the MSP1 data center, using the facility’s multiple entry points.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/47qoevI
UNION: Via Teamsters, VERBATIM: “Over 200 workers at St. Paul Beverage, a facility owned by Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), have voted to organize with Teamsters Local 471 — uniting to win stronger wages, better benefits, and a voice on the job.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/3MHUOT2
GOLDEN VALLEY: Via CCX Media, VERBATIM: “The city of Golden Valley is moving closer to naming its next police chief. According to a city press release, the city is working with GMP Consultants, a state of Washington-based executive search firm on the hiring process. The city plans to hold a public forum next week to allow residents to learn more about the candidates.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/40PySsc
AUSTIN: Via Ollie’s, VERBATIM: “Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, Inc. celebrates entering its 35th state with the Grand Opening of its new store in Austin, Minnesota.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4lbw3uX
WHAT’S NEXT?
THIS MONTH: Via MplsStPaul, VERBATIM: “Whether you’re on the hunt for the biggest Irish-themed party around the Twin Cities, the best locally made corned beef, or a day full of St. Patrick’s family fun, we’ve got a list of celebrations happening.” LIST: https://fluence-media.co/4rS6hPb
MAR 24: Via Lakeland PBS, VERBATIM: “[Bemidji] district leadership is considering closing J.W. Smith Elementary and plans to hold a public hearing before voting on the possible closure at a later date.” WATCH: https://fluence-media.co/4rTG96z
FORUM: If you’re interested in having the Fluence Forum host a topic, please contact Blois Olson at bloisolson@gmail.com
MINI GOLF: Via MplsStPaul, VERBATIM: “Have you ever been putt-putting about the mini golf course at Can Can Wonderland in St. Paul and pondered how its intricately wacky designs came to be? Answer: Though original installations like the giant blue toad and whirling tornado were crafted by early teams of local artists, engineers, welders, and other creatives, today many are made by Wonder Studio, the creative group that serves not just Can Can but also the other three businesses under the umbrella of the Eclective Creative Collective, helmed by founder Rob Clapp: Saint Paul Brewing, Martha’s Gardens, and Dark Horse.” READ: https://fluence-media.co/4rS7c25
BDAYS: gun advocate Bryan Strawer, Prior Lake Mayor Kirt Briggs, attorney Kara Barrow, food guy Matthew Anderson, labor organizer Kris Fredson, Saints brainchild Mike Veeck
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