Community Corner
Popular Bakery Pardon My French Abruptly Shuttered
A beloved restaurant in Eagan closed with little warning and no explanation this week.
You can't be in front of your computer 24 hours a day, so each weekend, Patch reviews the top recent stories from throughout the South Metro region.
Here's a look at stories that may impact your life or be of interest to you. To read the full story, click on the headline link.
Dakota County
UPDATED: Flu Has Now Killed 60 Minnesotans
Find out what's happening in Burnsvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
District 196 reporting absences in several schools; across state, 1,842 have been hospitalized.
DCR Chamber President Ruthe Batulis Stepping Down
Find out what's happening in Burnsvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Batulis served eight years as president of the group, which represents businesses in Rosemount, Eagan and other cities.
Apple Valley-Rosemount
VIDEO: Nicholas David Stages Homecoming Performance at St. Joe's in Rosemount
The musician's homecoming performance at his alma mater in Rosemount included a joint sing-a-long with current students at the school.
Twenty District 196 Students Qualify for State Debate Tournament
The State Debate Tournament takes place Friday and Saturday at the University of Minnesota.
Apple Valley-Rosemount Real Estate Market Booming
Median prices are way up over previous year's levels, but Realtors say there's now a new problem: Not enough homes on the market to meet demand.
Several local students at Minnehaha Academy are testing polymer formation in microgravity—by sending an experiment to the International Space Station.
Burnsville
Sweep Elected Board of Education Chair
In a split vote, Sandra Sweep was elected to be chairperson of the Board of Education, replacing long-standing chair Ron Hill.
MnDOT to Close Five Miles of Southbound Interstate 35E for 30 Days Over Summer 2013
This summer, Dakota County's Interstate 35 Corridor will be riddled with detours and diversions as the state refurbishes one of the most heavily trafficked roads in Minnesota.
Hannah Keirstead and Jack O'Brien, two model students from BHS, have been tapped for the annual ExCEL Awards.
Bridal Accents Brings Dash of Class to Heart of the City
In late December, Burnsville got one posh Christmas present: A couture bridal boutique that is an exclusive supplier of fashion luminaries like Badgley Mischka, Nicole Miller and Martina Liana.
Eagan
Eagan City Council Says Yes to Caponi Art Park Purchase
The council unanimously agreed Tuesday to enter into a joint-purchase agreement with Dakota County to buy 27.12 acres of the park. The decision ensures the entirety of the park will remain intact and preserved.
Pardon My French Unexpectedly Closes Its Doors
The bakery, wine bar and cafe closed both its Eagan and Mall of America locations Sunday, after posting a notice to its Facebook page informing customers.
Inver Grove Heights
Inver Hills Partners with Saint Mary's U of M to Boost Business Curriculum
The partnership allows students who have earned an associate degree from Inver Hills to stay on campus and transfer into SMU’s Bachelor of Science in Business program.
During a visit to Inver Hills Community College, Sen. Al Franken spoke with Patch about legislation he plans on proposing to increase the number of mental health staff in schools.
Argenta Hills commercial space searching for tenants
IGH officials hope for a mix of retail, restaurants and service providers
Lakeville
Karl Drotning Named Lakeville Chamber 2012 Business Person of the Year
Karl Drotning, president CEO of Lakeville's Crystal Lake Automotive, Inc., has been named 2012 Business Person of the Year by the Lakeville Area Chamber of Commerce.
Mendota Heights
Vibrate Your Body Healthy: Goga Studios Opens in Village at Mendota Heights
The workout facility features machines that use “whole body vibration” to provide myriad benefits, owner says.
Mendota Heights Real Estate Prices Rising But Homes Staying on Market Longer
Median prices are up over previous year's levels, but homes are staying on the market longer.
Northfield
Handguns: 2012 a Record Year for Permits in Northfield and Rice County
Permits to purchase a handgun have double in Northfield since 2007.
School Board Nixes August Start Date—For Now
After a large turnout and everyone speaking in opposition of the proposal at the Northfield School Board meeting Monday, the board decided the time wasn't right for the change.
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