At its Nov. 24 meeting, the Columbia Heights City Council unanimously approved an ordinance that will end the sale of flavored tobacco products by Jan. 1, 2028, and begin phasing out all tobacco licenses through attrition. The ordinance takes effect July 1, 2026. Two provisions—the ban on flavored tobacco sales and a one-time succession transfer option—take effect Jan. 1, 2028. A motion to move the flavored tobacco sales ban up one year to 2027 failed on a 3-2 vote. Council Members Justice Spriggs and Connie Buesgens supported the change; Mayor Amada Marquez Simula and Council Members Laurel Deneen and Rachel James opposed it. ...

As I write this, Vikings quarterback and former Michigan darling J.J. McCarthy has entered concussion protocol, which likely means Max Brosmer will start against a Seattle Seahawks defense ranked fifth in EPA per play, seventh in points allowed and ninth in yards allowed. That might be a good thing. Not because I’m spiteful — I actually think it’s good for McCarthy long-term. A lot of people, including a fellow AMM sports reporter, have written about how we need to be patient with the kid and let him keep being the guy. And I don’t want what I’m about to write — about his ability to sling a football with force and velocity — to come across as a personal slight. By all accounts, he seems like a grounded person, a good teammate, engaged to be married, a father, and a personality I genuinely enjoy listening to. ...

Toys for Joy and BPM Motorcycle Club celebrate a successful evening. Original Article

James Hathaway shows off his cooking prowess. Original Article

Original Article

Griff and the Grifters play a classic rock set for attendees at the Toys for Joy event in Anoka. Original Article

Original Article

Original Article

Original Article

The BPM Motorcycle Club, alongside the Vigilant Guardians and Toys for Joy, held a rousingly successful toy drive, as well as fundraiser. The event featured food and bakery treats cooked by BPM, as well as a live band, Griff and the Grifters, who played a set heavy on classic rock such as the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and other similar bands. There was also a silent auction that gave away items that included Ed Sheeran tickets, a handmade frame by BPM member James Hathaway and other miscellaneous items and gift baskets. ...