Minnesota
Minnesota polka legend Florian Chmielewski dies at 97
Florian Chmielewski, famed for his polka prowess and longtime service in state government, died Tuesday at age 97. According to an obituary shared by his family, Chmielewski had been experiencing congestive heart failure and “passed away peacefully” at his home in Sturgeon Lake, Minn.
As a longtime member of the Chmielewski Funtime Band, the musician helped preserve and celebrate a musical tradition with deep roots in the state’s European settler communities. His band toured widely, recorded extensively and became television’s Partridge Family of polka.
“It’s just like a piece of history is missing,” said the artist’s daughter, Patty Chmielewski, reflecting on the end of her father’s life. “He never stopped. He had two settings: full speed and sleep.”
Florian Chmielewski also served in the Minnesota Senate from 1971-1997, representing the districts encompassing Sturgeon Lake, and served as president of that body during a special session in 1987. As listed by the Minnesota Legislative Reference Library, his special areas of concern were employment, health care, housing and veterans affairs.
The inheritor and steward of family traditions in music, agriculture and public service, Chmielewski was beloved by audiences — representing, to many, the cheerful face of a longstanding community tradition of “old-time” music and social dance.
“Polka music is happy music,” Florian Chmielewski told the Cloquet Pine Journal in 2014. “There’s no sadness in it.” Chmielewski played well into his 90s, saying he would consider retiring when he reached 100.
One of 15 siblings, Florian Chmielewski was born in 1927 on his family farm in Sturgeon Lake. The family’s musical tradition stretched back to Chmielewski’s grandfather, a fiddler originally from Poland. “My dad only spoke Polish until the fifth grade,” said Patty Chmielewski.
Florian Chmielewski began playing accordion in his teens, forming a band with his brothers. After serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, Chmielewski brought his talents to the airwaves, performing in radio and television programs. The “Chmielewski Funtime” TV show, airing in syndication in markets across the United States and Canada, would turn the accordionist and his family members into national polka celebrities.
Duluth is “where it all began” for the family’s multimedia fame, said Patty Chmielewski. “My dad started on radio at WKLK.” Florian Chmielewski’s first television show, “The Polish TV Party,” launched in 1955 on Duluth’s WDSM-TV.
At the peak of the family’s television success, Patty Chmielewski remembered, “We were like the Beatles … girls would be jumping in the windows, trying to get hold of my brothers. It was crazy. Who would ever think? But that was back in the ’70s, and it’s a tribute to Duluth.”
Florian Chmielewski’s musical success helped elevate a political career that led to the state Senate. “He said he couldn’t be a senator, he (didn’t) believe, without the accordion,” said Patty Chmielewski.
In St. Paul, the Democratic-Farmer-Labor legislator embraced his identity as “the Swinging Senator” (the title of one of his many record albums, featuring a cover photo of Chmielewski standing outside the Capitol) and even used his music to build bridges across party lines.
At one point, said Patty Chmielewski, referencing her father’s memoir “0 to 90,” Florian Chmielewski pulled out his accordion during a Senate impasse; the frustrated politicians improvised lyrics to a song about being stuck.
“It just changed the whole demeanor of everything,” said Patty Chmielewski. “They went back in and voted, and it was done.”
Although Florian Chmielewski worked at the Capitol alongside former Gov. Rudy Perpich, the pair’s best-remembered intersection came at the 1978 launch of the Chmielewski International Polkafest in Pine City. A runner appeared with a torch, evoking the Olympics, and attempted a ceremonial handoff to the governor.
“Oil was dripping from the torch,” remembered Patty Chmielewski, and as the prop was passed to the governor, “Boop! Rudy goes up in flames. He had this polyester suit on, and it just melted.”
The fire was extinguished without serious harm to the governor, and the festival went on to become a multi-decade tradition. In a 2015 News Tribune interview, Florian Chmielewski recounted the incident and said that Perpich quipped to him afterward: “Eleven attorneys called me. Since you’re a good friend, I told nine to get lost.”
While in office Chmielewski focused on bringing concrete results — state funding and projects — to his district. Though highly popular and “considered unbeatable” as an incumbent up to that point, the Duluth News Tribune reported in 1996, Chmielewski’s legislative career ended that year when he lost a primary challenge after admitting he had allowed relatives to place long-distance phone calls at taxpayer expense.
After leaving office, Chmielewski continued to entertain for the remaining three decades of his life. He was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame and was recognized in the Pioneer Division of the International Polka Association Hall of Fame.
As just one example of their statewide stardom, in 1989, Chmielewski family members performed alongside stars like the Jets at the Minnesota Music Awards in Minneapolis — and took home more prizes than Prince.
Chmielewski’s familiar face and reliable good humor earned warm receptions at concerts and events, as his family band encompassed members of fourth, fifth and sixth generations.
“There wasn’t anything he didn’t tackle without a positive attitude,” said Patty Chmielewski. “Everybody says, ‘What a kind, what a gentle man.’”
Pat Chmielewski, the artist’s wife of 47 years, died in 2003. The Chmielewski Funtime Band continues on, now led by Patty Chmielewski.
Florian Chmielewski’s shows always stoked an atmosphere of “togetherness,” said Patty Chmielewski. “No matter where my dad was, he could create it. If you didn’t know how to dance, he could talk you into dancing, and then you’d be happy that you did it.”
A funeral for Florian Chmielewski will be held May 7 at St. Isidore’s Catholic Church in Sturgeon Lake. For funeral and visitation details, see hhkfuneralhome.com.
Minnesota
How to watch the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Denver Nuggets NBA Playoffs game tonight: Game 2 livestream options
The 2024 NBA conference semifinals are in full swing as the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets meet again this evening. The second game of the teams’ semifinals series gives the Nuggets a chance to tie up the series.
Keep reading for everything you need to know to watch tonight’s Timberwolves vs. Nuggets game even if you don’t have cable.
How and when to watch the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Denver Nuggets game
Game 2 of the Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Denver Nuggets NBA Playoffs series will be played on Monday, May 6, 2024 at 10:00 p.m ET (7:00 p.m. PT). The game will air on TNT and stream on Sling TV and the platforms featured below.
How to watch the Timberwolves vs. Nuggets game without cable
If your cable subscription doesn’t carry TNT or you’ve cut the cord with your cable company, you can still watch today’s game. Below are the platforms on which you can watch today’s game live.
Save $25 on Sling TV: The most cost-effective way to stream the Timberwolves vs. Nuggets game
One of the most cost-effective ways to stream today’s NBA playoff game is through a subscription to Sling TV. To watch today’s game, you’ll need a subscription to the Orange tier, which includes TNT and ESPN. For access to more NBA playoff games, upgrade to the Orange + Blue tier (recommended), which includes the games played on ABC.
The Orange tier is normally $40 per month, but Sling TV has an offer for new subscribers where you can get your first month for $15. The Orange + Blue tier costs $35 for your first month, and $60 per month after that. There’s also an NBA playoffs package deal where you can save $30 when you pre-pay for three months of service on any tier. You can cancel anytime.
Note: Because Sling TV doesn’t carry CBS, you won’t be able to watch CBS-aired live sports, including the NFL. If you’re looking for one live TV streaming platform to watch all your favorite sports, we suggest a subscription to Hulu + Live TV.
Top features of Sling TV Orange + Blue tier:
- There are 46 channels to watch in total, including ABC, ESPN and TNT.
- You get access to NFL games airing on ESPN next season at the lowest price.
- All subscription tiers include 50 hours of cloud-based DVR storage.
Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle: Watch the Timberwolves vs. Nuggets game live for free
You can watch today’s game with the Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle. The bundle features 95 channels, including ABC, TNT, local network affiliates and ESPN. It also includes the ESPN+ streaming service. Unlimited DVR storage is also included. Watch today’s game, the 2024 NBA playoffs, MLB this season and network-aired NFL games next season with Hulu + Live TV/ESPN+ bundle.
Hulu + Live TV comes bundled with ESPN+ and Disney+. It’s priced at $77 per month after a three-day free trial.
The best place to get NBA Playoffs fan gear: Fanatics
Rooting from home is more fun while repping your team with the latest NBA fan gear. Fanatics is our first stop for the newest NBA fan gear, our go-to for the latest drop of NBA Playoffs and NBA Finals merch like jerseys, commemorative T-shirts, hats and more. Fanatics also has just-released NFL Draft jerseys, like No. 1 overall draft pick Caleb Williams’ new Chicago Bears jersey.
2024 NBA Playoffs: Full playoff schedule
The conference semifinals is a best-of-seven series beginning on May 4, 2024. All times Eastern.
(1) Boston vs. (4) Cleveland
• Game 1: Cavaliers vs. Celtics, Tuesday, May 7 (7 ET, TNT)
• Game 2: Cavaliers vs. Celtics, Thursday, May 9 (7 ET, ESPN)
• Game 3: Celtics vs. Cavaliers, Saturday, May 11 (8:30 ET, ABC)
• Game 4: Celtics vs. Cavaliers, Monday, May 13 (7 ET, TNT)
• Game 5: Cavaliers vs. Celtics, Wednesday, May 15 (TBD, TNT) *
• Game 6: Celtics vs. Cavaliers, Friday, May 17 (TBD, ESPN) *
• Game 7: Cavaliers vs. Celtics, Sunday, May 19 (TBD, TBD) *
Series tied 0-0
* = If necessary
(2) New York vs. (6) Indiana
• Game 1: Pacers vs. Knicks, Monday, May 6 (7:30 ET, TNT)
• Game 2: Pacers vs. Knicks, Wednesday, May 8 (8 ET, TNT)
• Game 3: Knicks vs. Pacers, Friday, May 10 (7 ET, ESPN)
• Game 4: Knicks vs. Pacers, Sunday, May 12 (3:30 ET, ABC)
• Game 5: Pacers vs. Knicks, Tuesday, May 14 (TBD, TNT) *
• Game 6: Knicks vs. Pacers, Friday, May 17 (TBD, ESPN) *
• Game 7: Pacers vs. Knicks, Sunday, May 19 (TBD, TBD) *
Series tied 0-0
* = If necessary
Western Conference
(1) Oklahoma City vs. (5) Dallas
• Game 1: Mavericks vs. Thunder, Tuesday, May 7 (9:30 ET, TNT)
• Game 2: Mavericks vs. Thunder, Thursday, May 9 (9:30 ET, ESPN)
• Game 3: Thunder vs. Mavericks, Saturday, May 11 (3:30 ET, ABC)
• Game 4: Thunder vs. Mavericks, Monday, May 13 (9:30 ET, TNT)
• Game 5: Mavericks vs. Thunder, Wednesday, May 15 (TBD, TNT) *
• Game 6: Thunder vs. Mavericks, Saturday, May 18 (8:30 ET, ESPN) *
• Game 7: Mavericks vs. Thunder, Monday, May 20 (8:30 ET, TNT) *
Series tied 0-0
* = If necessary
(2) Denver vs. (3) Minnesota
• Game 1: Timberwolves 106, Nuggets 99
• Game 2: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets, Monday, May 6 (10 ET, TNT)
• Game 3: Nuggets vs. Timberwolves, Friday, May 10 (9:30 ET, ESPN)
• Game 4: Nuggets vs. Timberwolves, Sunday, May 12 (8 ET, TNT)
• Game 5: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets, Tuesday, May 14 (TBD, TNT) *
• Game 6: Nuggets vs. Timberwolves, Thursday, May 16 (8:30, ESPN) *
• Game 7: Timberwolves vs. Nuggets, Sunday, May 19 (TBD, TBD) *
Minnesota leads series 1-0
* = If necessary
First round results
Below are the results from the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Eastern Conference
(1) Boston Celtics vs. (8) Miami Heat
• Game 1: Celtics 114, Heat 94
• Game 2: Heat 111, Celtics 101
• Game 3: Celtics 104, Heat 84
• Game 4: Celtics 102, Heat 88
• Game 5: Celtics 118, Heat 84
(2) New York Knicks vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers
• Game 1: Knicks 111, 76ers 104
• Game 2: Knicks 104, 76ers 101
• Game 3: 76ers 125, Knicks 114
• Game 4: Knicks 97, 76ers 92
• Game 5: 76ers 112, Knicks 106 (OT)
• Game 6: Knicks 118, 76ers 115
(3) Milwaukee Bucks vs. (6) Indiana Pacers
• Game 1: Bucks 109, Pacers 94
• Game 2: Pacers 125, Bucks 108
• Game 3: Pacers 121, Bucks 118
• Game 4: Pacers 126, Bucks 113
• Game 5: Bucks 115, Pacers 92
• Game 6: Pacers 120, Bucks 98
(4) Cleveland vs. (5) Orlando
• Game 1: Cavaliers 97, Magic 83
• Game 2: Cavaliers 96, Magic 86
• Game 3: Magic 121, Cavaliers 83
• Game 4: Magic 112, Cavaliers 89
• Game 5: Cavaliers 104, Magic 103
• Game 6: Magic 103, Cavaliers 96
• Game 7: Cavaliers 106, Magic 94
Western Conference
(1) Oklahoma City Thunder vs. (8) New Orleans Pelicans
• Game 1: Thunder 94, Pelicans 92
• Game 2: Thunder 124, Pelicans 92
• Game 3: Thunder 106, Pelicans 85
• Game 4: Thunder 97, Pelicans 89
(2) Denver Nuggets vs. (7) Los Angeles Lakers
• Game 1: Nuggets 114, Lakers 103
• Game 2: Nuggets 101, Lakers 99
• Game 3: Nuggets 112, Lakers 105
• Game 4: Lakers 119, Nuggets 108
• Game 5: Nuggets 108, Lakers 106
(3) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (6) Phoenix Suns
• Game 1: Timberwolves 120, Suns 95
• Game 2: Timberwolves 105, Suns 93
• Game 3: Timberwolves 129, Suns 109
• Game 4: Timberwolves 112, Suns 116
(4) LA Clippers vs. (5) Dallas Mavericks
• Game 1: Clippers 109, Mavericks 97
• Game 2: Mavericks 96, Clippers 93
• Game 3: Mavericks 101, Clippers 90
• Game 4: Clippers 116, Mavericks 111
• Game 5: Mavericks 123, Clippers 93
• Game 6: Mavericks 114, Mavericks 101
Conference finals schedule
The conference finals will begin May 21-22, but can move up to May 19-20 if the prior round’s series ends early.
NBA Finals schedule
The 2024 NBA Finals will begin June 6, airing on ABC.
- Sunday, June 9: Game 2
- Wednesday, June 12: Game 3
- Friday, June 14: Game 4
- Monday, June 17: Game 5 (if necessary)
- Thursday, June 20: Game 6 (if necessary)
- Sunday, June 23: Game 7 (if necessary)
FINLAND, MINN. – My 10-year-old daughter was stuck on a tower 30 feet in the air, crying and shaking. She had already conquered a series of ropes course obstacles, growing shakier and weepier with each skootch across thin wires and tiptoe over rounded logs.
The finale, the zipline, had been the carrot coaxing her. She imagined a leap and a “Wheeee!” into the dark, chilly night. This vision changed into a fear once she got close.
My daughter could either fling her body into the void or she could turn around and redo the ropes course backward, exiting at the point of entry. There was no ladder, no tele-transporter, no do-over for the decisions that brought her to this point. She was here, helmeted and fully harnessed, and desperate for a third option.
And here I was, also helmeted and fully harnessed, with a front-row seat for this moment. It was the reason I signed up to chaperone — but now I wasn’t sure what she needed in this moment, or even if I had the ability to help her.
Wolf Ridge is one of a handful of environmental learning centers in Minnesota. In its more than 50-year history, it has seen 750,000 visitors come through the outdoor school — students, teachers, chaperones there for hands-on learning in outdoor spaces from on-site naturalists, according to executive director Peter Smerud. The 2,000-acre property near Silver Bay includes classrooms, dormitories, a cafeteria, but also hiking trails, scenic vistas, geocaching sites and beaver-gnawed trees.
You might have a chance encounter with a hawk named Ruby and her friendly minder, with his pocketful of rat meat.
Students from Duluth are among the busloads from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and North Dakota who make this trek. At my daughter’s elementary school, the three-day trip is a rite of passage for the fourth-graders.
Fourth-grade teacher Troy Erie, of Lowell Elementary School in Duluth has been organizing the Wolf Ridge experience for a decade, long enough to see three of his own kids go through it. He credits the center with exposing kids to the experiences they can have in nature — and potentially opening the door to a new lifelong habit.
My daughter’s classmates from Lowell, a crew of 100-plus 9- and 10-year-olds, were divided into groups, each with a schedule that included classes in geology, Lake Superior, art and habitats, that started in classrooms and then segued to hours spent outside.
But it was the kids headed to or from the ropes courses that had a certain sheen.
This is where the stories were made — and everyone had one, whether they opted out of the course and stayed landlocked or zipped through it with ease.
One kid purposefully dangled from a harness, but then struggled to get back on the wire. Then she panicked.
“I want to go home,” she told friends gathered 30 feet below. An instructor talked her back onto the ropes and back to land. Another child, who claimed a fear of heights, shouted deathbed confessionals while rushing through the course, which she finished with no problem.
The cafeteria buzzed on the second day with the story of a student who was still out there, late for nachos. Stuck, his friends confirmed, completely disinterested in exiting via the zipline. Eventually the young adventurer turned around and recrossed the entire course. Another triumph!
He walked to the cafeteria and received a hero’s welcome from classmates.
Each of these scenarios has a lesson attached, according to Smerud. Kids might work through a fear in a dangerous-seeming safe space. The ones who opt out are standing strong in the face of peer pressure and instead doing what feels right in their own bodies.
“It’s easy to celebrate all the people who go through,” Smerud said. “How much strength does it take to say no?”
My daughter, too, would make her own story. She’s a real will-she-or-won’t-she in scenarios like this. She loves climbing trees, but won’t learn to ride a bike. She’s selective at amusement parks. Peer pressure holds no sway and she shrugs at regrets.
On this day, though, she was heady with a morning victory on the climbing wall.
She was the last student on the ropes course. Most of the kids had gone back to the dorms for snack time. She started the course easily, but stalled at the midpoint. She cried as she crossed a wire sideways — unwilling to look forward, backward or down. Safely on the platform, she panicked. The thought of the zipline brought short breaths and messy tears.
I told her to take deep breaths, my go-to parenting advice after “drink more water.” I told her the equipment was safe, made of airplane-grade material and able to tow semitrucks. But short of wrapping her in a bear hug and catapulting us from the perch, there was nothing I could do. She had to want to do it — or at least have that outcome outweigh starting a new life 30 feet above the ground.
Through the trees we heard another team counting backward, encouraging a kid on the other ropes course. A countdown! The idea took hold. My daughter’s physical response was sudden.
She straightened. She emitted a powerful growl of a voice. “3, 2, 1,” she roared, then leaned backward into her harness, dropped from the tower and zipped away into the cold, dark night.
Who was that? I wondered, breathless.
Then I burst into tears.
I inhaled deeply and followed her lead — toward my own rite of passage.
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