Business and Economic News

 From 'Grinchmas' to chestnut roasts, these rural towns make the holidays central to their economy
Winter holiday festivals have become a regular way to grow revenue for America’s smallest towns. And with more people shopping online, those events are key to pulling people away from their screens and into stores.
Arboretum in Baxter debuts new forest skating trail: ‘If we build it, they will come’
The trail opening Sunday at the Northland Arboretum in Baxter winds through snow-covered pine trees and fields in a loop just under half a mile long. Unlike a frozen lake or smooth rink, there are curves, hills and occasional bumps.
State officials announce plans for more study on impacts of sulfate pollution on wild rice
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says it will further study the impacts of sulfate on wild rice. The announcement comes in the wake of concern expressed over a 52-year-old state standard that limits how much of the pollutant mines and other facilities can release into waters where the plant grows.
Onset of Minnesota paid family and medical leave program viewed as new type of safety net
Minnesota’s paid family and medical leave program launches with the new year. Thousands are preparing to tap the benefits that will offer three-quarters of Minnesota workers more benefits than they have now.
AI's role in holiday shopping is mostly under the hood, for now, researcher says
Dayton Steele, an assistant professor at the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management, joined Cathy Wurzer on Morning Edition to share how AI informs and aids the holiday shopping season.
Hair salon economics: Less spending on cuts, colors, nails and massages indicative of slowdown
If you want to get a last minute hair cut and color in time for the holidays, you still might be able to get an appointment. That’s because hair stylists, who are usually booked well in advance during the holidays, are seeing their business slow.
Minnesota attorney general announces settlement with Kia and Hyundai over stolen vehicles
Owners of several Kia and Hyundai models will be eligible for free anti-theft hardware upgrades in the new year, following a lawsuit settlement between the automakers and several states, including Minnesota. 
Twin Cities nonprofits land funding from OpenAI’s new philanthropic arm
The nonprofit arm of OpenAI pledged more than $40 million to organizations nationwide, with some of that funding headed to Minnesota. Merrick Community Services in St. Paul says the grant will support its core social service work.
'It's hurting people': Minneapolis city official suggests alternatives to property tax increases
Property taxes are on the rise as commercial values decline in downtown areas, shifting the financial burden to homeowners. Steve Brandt, president of the Minneapolis Board of Estimation and Taxation, said increases property taxes every year is not sustainable and offered alternatives.