St. Louis Park to Welcome Tony Mendez

Mendez is now widely known, for the the "Canadian caper" during the Iran hostage crisis, in which he exfiltrated six American diplomats from Iran in November 1979.

New Year's Eve Events in the Twin Cities Metro

Looking for something to do this New Year's Eve? Patch has compiled a list of area events.

Happy New Year! Here are a few things for you adults to do this holiday: If you're looking to get fancy and possibly be a part of a good cause, consider attending Widows Hope Foundation's inaugural fundraising event, the “Hope 13” Gala. Widows Hope a non-profit organization dedicated to helping widows, widowers and their children in times of loss. Where: The Metropolitan Ballroom, 5418 Wayzata Blvd, Golden Valley, MN When: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Why Go: The R Factor, formerly The Rupert's Orchestra, will be playing all night long. And, well, it's for a good cause. Cost: $150 for VIP; $40 for general admission. For tickets, go to widowshope.org. Things to know: Dress is formal to semi-formal. General admission includes a champagne toast at…

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Great Escape: A 'Stay & Play' at Water Park of America

Looking for an escape close to home?

The Water Park of America, located in Bloomington, MN, is the largest indoor water park in the United States and Patch's pick for a Great Escape. The park features dozens of slopes, tunnels and tube slides to keep swimmers entertained for the day. In addition, the facility has a pool size and depth for every child and adult to safely enjoy. The best part? You can buy a day pass for the park or take advantage of a “stay and play” package deal. The package offers you and your family a room at the Radisson Hotel, which is attached to the water park, and access to the park. Food and beverages are also easily available at the hotel. If you didn’t get to travel for spring break this year, Water Park of America would be the perfect, inexpensive …

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Great Escape: Double Date Night at The Melting Pot

Looking for something to do with your favorite couple? Want an upscale experience for a good price? Patch has just the thing.

When’s the last time you went on a double date? Well, bring your appetite and another couple any Thursday night to The Melting Pot in downtown Minneapolis to enjoy a fondue experience. The three-course dinner includes your choice of a cheese, meat and dessert fondue. Each course offers a variety of options and pairings to choose from. Start with a blend of Wisconsin cheeses for the first course, move onto seafood and steak for the main course, and top it off with a chocolate and marshmallow swirl for desert. To see the full menu, click here. The best part? Not only do you get to simmer and cook your own food to your liking, but The Melting Pot’s double date night costs just $80 for all four people—which is nearly a 50 percent discount over…

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Great Escape: Salsa Dancing Lessons

Each week, we'll find Great Escapes that will allow you to pamper, renew and refresh yourself.

Looking for a little something different to do this weekend? Well, why don't you spice up your life with a little salsa? And we’re not talking about the snack dip — get out and dance! The Cinema Ballroom, located right in the heart of St. Paul, offers a month-long lesson session for all ages starting March 5. Classes are held from 11 a.m. to noon every Saturday. The sessions will teach you the Cha Cha, Mambo and the Cumbia. Each class builds on the technique from the week before. There are no qualifications besides the desire to try something new and exhilarating. The first lesson is free, so there is no excuse not to try it. Can’t commit to a whole month of classes? The Cinema Ballroom also offers “Salsa Parties” every second and fourth …

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