The daily digest of Twin Cities culture | Secrets of the City

“Who doesn’t love Sam and Sylvia Kaplan?” [January] Well, I guess I don’t. Nothing personal; it’s just that they stand for everything I dislike about politics and “progressives.”

Secretive meetings held behind closed doors; politicians groveling for the Kaplans’ approval; the Twin Cities’ elite hobnobbing at invitation-only soirees. It reeks of the cronyism the Kaplans are said to be against. But since they’re on the correct side of the aisle, the portrait painted is a rosy one.

Years ago, comedian Bill Murray was talking with the press about great careers, longevity, and what really defines success. Murray had had several hits at the time, made good money, was considered for practically every big-budget comedy script in town, and by any Hollywood standard was the envy of his peers.