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Here are some local LGBTQ-owned stores to check out during June
Here are five queer-owned businesses that offer everything from unique clothing to beautiful plants.
MINNEAPOLIS — Editor’s Note: This video originally aired Jan 25, 2024.
Pride only lasts the month of June… but these LGBTQ-owned businesses are open year-round and would love your support.
As tempting as it might be to buy Pride merch from Etsy or Amazon, these small businesses have unique items and come with the perk of supporting local entrepreneurs. Here’s a look at LGBTQ businesses to stop at in the Twin Cities.
Minneapolis
Tandem Vintage — Have a passion for fashion? This queer-owned store specializes in vintage clothing from the 1950s-1990s. The shop has an in-person location but also offers shipping and online sales through its Instagram.
If you’re planning to go in person, make it a weekend trip! The shop is open Friday and Saturday from 12-5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is located at 316 West 38th Street.
The Future — If you’re seeking to channel some artistic energy, The Future is for you. Owner Lacey Prpić Hedtke offers crystals, gender-neutral makeup, clothing, books and more at this shop at 2223 East 35th Street.
As an additional incentive to visit, the shop hosts art and tarot reading events. Check out the full offerings on Instagram.
MartinPatrick3 — If you’re preparing for a fancy occasion, this North Loop boutique offers made-to-measure suits, men’s apparel and a barbershop. It is located on 212 Third Avenue North Suite 106. Hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tangletown Gardens — For your garden and gift-giving needs, check out this sprawling garden center and shop at 5353 Nicollet Ave S. They offer plants, landscaping services and creative gifts.
To check out their website (and to see photos of this unexpected floral oasis in the city), click here.
St. Paul
Black Garnet Books — This shop in St. Paul will fulfill the bookworms with reads by BIPOC authors and a thoughtfully-curated selection of queer books. It is located at 1319 University Avenue West and is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12-5 p.m.
Owner Dionne Sims pursued her dream of a Black-, queer-owned bookstore in 2020. But now, she is pursuing other passions and the bookstore is looking for new ownership.
For more queer-owned stores, restaurants, nightlife and vacation spots across Minnesota, click here.
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Minnesota beer proceeds will help Minnesota’s birds
A portion of the proceeds will go toward the nonprofit dedicated to caring and treating raptors.
MINNEAPOLIS — A new beer collaboration between HeadFlyer Brewing and the University of Minnesota’s Raptor Center is raising funds for bird conservation.
The limited-edition brew “Escalating Falcon” is part of the Raptor Center’s 50th anniversary celebration. Two percent of the proceeds from beer sales will support the center’s work.
On Saturday, attendees had the opportunity to sample the new beer and meet some of the center’s ambassador birds at the Northeast brewery.
“I think it works because of the community. This is a place where people normally gather together anyway, so it’s a great opportunity to know more about the Raptor Center,” Lori Arent, interim director of the Raptor Center, said.
The Raptor Center admits approximately 1,000 birds of prey to their specialized hospital each year, aiming to rehabilitate and release them back into the wild.
“The center serves birds from all over Minnesota,” said Arent.
The “Escalating Falcon” will be sold for a limited time at HeadFlyer Brewing.
Arent considers the celebration the beginning of their Give to the Max Day season. If you are interested in donating, visit their website.
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Teen shot in St. Paul, investigation underway
ST PAUL, Minn. — Investigators are trying to find out what led up to a 14-year-old boy being shot in St. Paul on Saturday.
Authorities told KARE 11 officers were called to the 1900 block of Wilson Avenue just before 12:30 p.m. There they found the teen with a gunshot wound.
The teen was taken to Regions Hospital with injuries officials described as “non-life-threatening.”
No one has been arrested yet, police said, and the investigation is ongoing.
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Minnesota Kendama Open returns to Minnesota
Kendama is a traditional Japanese skill toy consisting of a handle (ken), a pair of cups (sarado), and a ball (tama) that are all connected by a string.
PLYMOUTH, Minn. — Hundreds of people from around the world are in Minnesota this weekend to compete in North America’s largest kendama tournament.
Kendama is a traditional Japanese skill toy consisting of a handle (ken), a pair of cups (sarado), and a ball (tama) that are all connected by a string.
The North American Kendama Open (NAKO) is Nov. 15 -17 at the Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West Hotel in Plymouth. It’s become popular in part due to a Minneapolis-based company, Sweets Kendamas, and the company’s owner, Matt “Sweets” Jorgenson.
Sweets Kendamas hosts the nation’s largest kendama competitions and sells the toys at Target stores nationwide.
In partnership with the nonprofit Mindfulness Through Play, it also operates 12 kendama clubs at afterschool programs across the Twin Cities.
Besides the competition, NAKO will feature music, merchandise, workshops, video premiers and an award show.
Tickets are $60 for the weekend or $25/day.