Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hmong and S.E. Asian immigration to Minnesota
What to know before traveling to Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes
Minnesota may be known for its accent and music icon Prince, but the state is also home to pristine national and state parks, award-winning restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene.
Full story: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/minnesota-essential-travel-guide
10 unforgettable ways to explore Minnesota
World-class Hmong American dining, the world’s largest freshwater lake, and excellent mountain biking are just a few compelling reasons to visit the North Star State.
Full story: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/minnesota-best-things-to-do
Hmong and Hmong Americans in Minnesota
The Hmong first arrived in Minnesota in late 1975, after the communist seizure of power in Indochina. They faced multiple barriers as refugees from a war- torn country, but with the help of generous …
Full story: https://www.minnpost.com/mnopedia/2025/04/hmong-and-hmong-americans-in-minnesota/
Lang opposes giving Hmong veterans state benefits
A compromise measure would recognize the men as veterans but limit access to benefits. It is estimated fewer than 1000 Hmong Vietnam veterans live in Minnesota.
How Hmong soldiers in Minnesota are fighting to get veterans benefits
Hmong soldiers who fought for the U.S. during the Vietnam War are asking to be recognized for their service. The CIA recruited and trained them during the Secret War in Laos. As Caroline Cummings …
Full story: https://www.yahoo.com/news/hmong-soldiers-minnesota-fighting-veterans-231024940.html
Minnesota bill would define Hmong soldiers who fought during Laos “Secret War” as veterans
Changing state law to define them as veterans would unlock state veterans benefits like the GI bill or access to the state’s veterans homes.
Full story: https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/minnesota-bill-hmong-soldiers-laos-secret-war-veterans/
Former St. Paul charter school teacher intends to plead guilty to criminal sexual conduct
A former St. Paul charter school teacher intends to plead guilty to criminal sexual conduct with his former 16-year-old student, according to a recent court filing.
Full story: https://www.fox9.com/news/hmong-college-prep-teacher-plea-criminal-sexual-conduct
Diane Moua grew up on a Junction City farm. Now she’s a James Beard award nominee (again)
Diane Moua grew up on a farm in Junction City. Now, the owner of Diane’s Place in Minneapolis has been nominated for a James Beard award.
New food at Target Field in 2025: Vinai, pickle pizza and more
The Twins unveiled the newest food and beverage offerings for the 2025 season ahead of Thursday’s home opener at Target Field.
Full story: https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/news/new-food-drinks-target-field-twins-2025/
Families of Cambodians, Lao, Vietnamese affected by ‘Secret War’ seek wider state recognition
For years, Cambodians, Vietnamese and Lao people in Minnesota have said they’ve struggled to get specific recognition in state cultural program funding.
Full story: https://www.twincities.com/2025/03/26/cambodians-lao-vietnamese-secret-war-state-recognition/
Minnesota’s Hot New Restaurant Now One of the World’s Best
Spoon and Stable is located in Minneapolis and was featured on Best Thing I Ever Ate. The Nook is located in St. Paul and was featured on Diners, Drive- Ins, and Dives. Holy Land is located in …
Full story: https://kroc.com/ixp/719/p/minnesotas-vinai-times-worlds-best-list/
Vinai is one of Time magazine’s ‘World’s Greatest Places’ for 2025
It’s the latest accolade for Vinai, chef Yia Vang’s ode to his family’s Hmong cooking, and a boon to artist Thomas Dambo’s sprawling exhibit.
Full story: https://www.startribune.com/vinai-restaurant-minneapolis-time-magazine-worlds-greatest-places-2025/601235145
Minnesota restaurant, sculpture display named on Time’s ‘World’s Greatest Places’ list
Chef Yia Vang’s Vinai and Thomas Dambo’s “Alexa’s Elixir” installation are drawing attention outside of the state.
Minneapolis restaurant makes Time’s ‘World’s Greatest Places’ list for 2025
Vang’s restaurant, Vinai, has landed on Time’s annual travel list of 100 of the “World’s Greatest Places.” When he realized the email was legitimate, “I kind of got emotional,” Vang told the Minnesota …
Full story: https://www.startribune.com/vinai-restaurant-minneapolis-time-magazine-worlds-greatest-places-2025/601235145
Ex-teacher of Hmong College Prep Academy in St. Paul pleads guilty to criminal sexual conduct with student
Brandon Michael Bunney, who had taught at Hmong College Prep Academy, pleaded guilty Tuesday in Ramsey County District Court to felony fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct as part of a plea agreement …
How the Trump administration’s policies are affecting farmers
Coming up at 9 a.m. on Thursday, MPR News host Angela Davis and her guests talk about how President Trump’s tariffs and funding cuts could affect Minnesota farmers.
Full story: https://www.mprnews.org/episode/2025/03/13/how-the-trump-administrations-policies-are-affecting-farmers
This State’s Food Scene Is Gaining National Attention
Minnesota’s food scene is thriving, with award-winning restaurants and diverse culinary influences from all around the world.
Full story: https://www.afar.com/magazine/where-to-find-the-best-restaurants-in-minnesota-right-now
