I’ve never heard of flashing to pass, the only thing I’ve seen it used for is to let a car in the right lane trying to get into the left lane know it’s safe to do so (as a driver in the left lane). I’ve only ever seen it used by truckers.

As far as Minneapolis goes, I’m quite the opposite. Having lived on the west coast I dread going to Minneapolis — everyone seems to be in a bad mood whenever I go there.