Racket MN Turns 5: Celebrate with a New Book and Party
Minneapolis’s favorite reader-funded, writer-owned alternative news site is hitting a major milestone. To celebrate five years of independent local journalism, Racket is throwing a massive anniversary party and releasing its very first commemorative book. For Twin Cities residents who value unfiltered local reporting, cultural criticism, and neighborhood guides, this milestone represents a resilient victory for our local media landscape.
How Racket Redefined Twin Cities Media
When the beloved alternative weekly City Pages abruptly shut down in late 2020, it left a massive void in Twin Cities arts, culture, and political coverage. In August 2021, four former editors and writers—Jessica Armbruster, Jay Boller, Em Cassel, and Keith Harris—launched Racket to fill that gap. Operating as a worker-owned collective, they bypassed traditional corporate media structures in favor of a direct-to-reader subscription model that put editorial control entirely in the hands of creators.
Over the past five years, this approach has allowed the outlet to maintain complete editorial independence. Free from the pressures of corporate boards and invasive advertising networks, the team has delivered a steady stream of hard-hitting labor reporting, quirky neighborhood guides, dive bar reviews, and deep dives into municipal politics. Their success has proven that Minneapolis and St. Paul readers are highly passionate about supporting authentic, voice-driven local journalism with their own wallets.
The 5-Year Celebration: Party and Book Details
To celebrate half a decade of survival and growth, Racket is hosting an anniversary bash designed for their dedicated community of readers, subscribers, and contributors. The event serves as a thank-you to the community that kept the digital publication afloat through volatile economic times. Alongside the party, the team is debuting a physical book that compiles their most memorable work.
The commemorative book acts as a time capsule of the Twin Cities from 2021 through 2026. It features a curated selection of their funniest, strangest, and most impactful stories, alongside brand-new essays reflecting on the challenges of running an independent newsroom in Minnesota. It is a tangible piece of local history that supporters can keep on their coffee tables or pass along to fellow locals.
Anniversary Event and Book Release Quick Guide
| Feature | Anniversary Party | Commemorative Book |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Late August 2026 | Presales open online, physical copies at the party |
| Location / Format | Local Twin Cities brewery venue | High-quality print paperback anthology |
| Key Highlights | Live local entertainment, writer meetups, exclusive merch | Best-of articles, neighborhood guides, and new essays |
Why Independent Media Matters for Minneapolis
The survival of a writer-owned outlet for five years is a rare feat in the modern media landscape, where local newspapers are shrinking and digital startups frequently fold within their first two years. Racket’s longevity demonstrates a viable path forward for local news. By relying primarily on member subscriptions, they remain accountable only to the people who actually live and work in the Twin Cities, rather than out-of-state private equity firms.
This model ensures that stories that might otherwise go uncovered—such as the struggles of local service workers, the quirky histories of suburban landmarks, and critical coverage of municipal decisions—receive thorough, thoughtful attention. A healthy media ecosystem requires diverse voices, and Racket’s continued presence keeps the broader Twin Cities media landscape more competitive, honest, and colorful.
What to Watch for Next
As Racket enters its sixth year, local media observers will be watching to see how the collective expands its footprint. While they plan to remain focused on the core Twin Cities metro, the success of their first physical book could pave the way for future print projects, expanded podcasting efforts, or more frequent live community events. Furthermore, their successful model continues to inspire similar journalist-owned startups across the country looking to break free from traditional corporate publishing systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who founded Racket?
The site was launched in 2021 by four former City Pages editors and writers: Jessica Armbruster, Jay Boller, Em Cassel, and Keith Harris. - How is the publication funded?
Racket is primarily reader-supported through paid monthly and annual subscriptions, supplemented by local sponsorships, merchandise sales, and special events. - Where can I purchase the new 5-year anniversary book?
The book will be available for purchase directly at the anniversary party, through their official website, and at select independent bookstores across the Twin Cities. - Can non-subscribers attend the anniversary party?
Yes, the event is open to the public, though paid subscribers often receive discounts on tickets and exclusive event perks.
Support the future of independent Twin Cities journalism by securing your tickets to the five-year anniversary party or ordering a copy of their commemorative book to keep local, writer-owned storytelling alive and thriving.
Racket MN Turns Five with a New Book and Party
