The Minnesota Independent

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Pine City Pride endures despite rival ‘family values’ event

By Andy Birkey | 06.08.09 | 2:51 pm

The national debate about gay rights hit home in the small community of Pine City, Minn., on Sunday as residents hosted two dueling picnics in the city of 3,000 people. For the fifth year, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender folks from east-central Minnesota gathered to celebrate family and community. And for the second year, their neighbors organized a picnic just blocks away opposing gay rights and promoting “family values.”

GOP already eyeing legislature’s swing districts in 2010

By Paul Demko | 02.06.09 | 4:21 pm

At least 10 challengers have announced their intent to run for the state House or Senate. Not surprisingly, given the strong Democratic majorities in both chambers, the bulk of the early contenders are Republicans.