1. In 1967, the first strip mall in the United States opened in Edina, Minnesota. The mall, called the Southdale Center, featured two levels of retail stores and drew shoppers from all over the region.

2. On January 27, 1894, the University of Minnesota's men's basketball team played its first game, against Hamline University. The Golden Gophers won by a score of 9-3, and the team has gone on to become one of the most successful in NCAA history.

3. In 1965, Minnesota became the first state in the US to ban the anti-bacterial chemical triclosan from personal hygiene products. The chemical, which is used in many soaps and toothpastes, has been linked to health and environmental concerns.

4. On January 27, 1943, the U.S. Army Air Forces began training glider pilots at the Wold-Chamberlain Field in Minneapolis. The gliders, which were used to transport troops and supplies during World War II, were an important part of the war effort.

5. In 1986, the Minnesota Twins signed future Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett to a five-year contract. Puckett would go on to lead the Twins to two World Series championships and become one of the most beloved players in Minnesota sports history.