December 20, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Need a mental health boost? Talking hot dog is here
Rocky Casillas Aguirre adds a pop of color to 'Twitch the Flame,' a main character in his comic series which focuses on mental health for kids. (Photo courtesy of Casillas Aguirre)
AN ARTS MIDWEST/MINNESOTA NEWS CONNECTION COLLABORATION – A Minnesota-based comic book artist is sharing colorful stories about a talking flame and a hot dog battling anxiety and other mental health gremlins. Comments from artist Rocky Casillas Aguirre (ku-SEE-us ah-GEAR-ee).
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December 19, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Potential moneymaker, water protector sits on MN's frozen farm fields
As winter takes hold, Minnesota farmers are getting repairs done on equipment and doing other tasks ahead of the next planting season. Some are also hoping their winter cover crops aid next year's growing with better soil and different types of harvest to sell. (Adobe Stock)
Insiders within the agricultural scene are keeping an eye on market forces impacting farmers. One is sustainability options to keep their land healthy and profitable. Cover crops planted in the winter are one of them, and that movement is evolving in states like Minnesota. Comments from Peter LaFontaine, agricultural policy manager, Friends of the Mississippi River; and Anne Schwagerl (SHWAY-gull), vice president, Minnesota Farmers Union and western Minnesota farmer.
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December 18, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
MN lawmakers have their eye on combating fraud, with caution urged
When pandemic aid was flowing, policy experts said it opened the door for fraudsters to line their pockets by taking advantage of state and federal emergency programs. In Minnesota, some of that activity has persisted. (Adobe Stock)
Minnesota lawmakers will soon be back at work, and they'll be tasked with addressing concerns about state agencies being targeted by fraud rings. A political expert says accountability is important, but sorting out an adequate response requires a delicate balance. Comments from Tim Lindberg, associate professor of political science, University of Minnesota Morris.
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December 17, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Taking in a big holiday light show? Give a nod to union workers
Since 2009, the Bentleyville Tour of Lights has dazzled attendees with an array of lights spread across Duluth's Bayfront Park. (Photo courtesy of Bentleyville Facebook page)
Attending an outdoor holiday event featuring lights, concessions and other attractions might not conjure up thoughts about union workers. But some in Minnesota come together with the contributions of labor organizations and their members. They hope their efforts give the public a deeper understanding of the labor movement. Comments from Keith Musolf (MOOSE-hoff), a St. Louis County Commissioner and business representative, Iron Workers Local 512.
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December 17, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Holiday stress warnings are nothing new, but heart data doesn't lie
Even with holiday shopping needs and planned celebrations, health experts emphasized taking time for yourself this time of year to avoid unnecessary stress. (Adobe Stock)
Health experts often remind those celebrating the holiday season to not over-indulge and do all they can to keep the added stress at bay. Research continues to emerge about how all of these factors likely contribute to an uptick in heart attacks this time of year. Comments from Dr. Sameh (samm) Hozayen (hoe-ZAY-inn), board member, American Heart Association Twin Cities, and hospitalist and assistant professor, University of Minnesota Physicians.
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December 13, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
MN joins the carbon capture pipeline wave with permit approval
After some initial permit roadblocks, Summit Carbon Solutions has been gaining approval in Midwestern states for a large-scale carbon capture project involving ethanol plants. (Adobe Stock)
This week, Minnesota regulators signed off on a permit request related to a controversial pipeline project covering several Midwestern states. Summit Carbon Solutions wants to build a maze of underground pipes to capture emissions from ethanol plants for underground storage. The massive project has drawn backlash from some environmental groups and landowners. Comments from Abigail Hencheck (HENN-check), attorney representing Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocat and Sierra Club; and attorney Christina Brusven (BRUISE-ven), attorney representing Summit.
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December 12, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
In challenging health coverage times, MN union victory seen as hopeful sign
In an October report from the Minnesota Department of Health covering 2017-2021, it was noted health care spending growth in the state had exceeded 5% in four of the past five years. (Adobe Stock)
It's forecast that overall healthcare spending in Minnesota could top $100 billion by 2031. This sector is under fresh scrutiny over the impact on health consumers, and a coalition of unions in Minnesota says its recent bargaining victory provides hope that savings for workers can be found, even in a burdensome environment. Comments from Amanda Stegmaier (STEGG-meyer), information technologist at Minnesota State University Moorhead, and a MAPE member; and Adam Kamp, business agent, Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE).
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Citation: Report Minn. Dept. of Health Oct. 2024
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December 11, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Five years in, MN program creates improved pathways for Native kids
Researchers said common barriers faced by Native American children include lack of culturally relevant curriculum in their educational settings. A Minnesota grant program helps community organizations expand such teachings within their tribal areas. (Adobe Stock)
A number of approaches are being carried out to reduce Minnesota's longstanding racial disparities. Despite some efforts, achievement gaps for kids still persist. However, community-level organizations report promising movement five years after a state grant program launched. Comments from Brook LaFloe, associate director, Montessori American Indian Childcare Center; and Beth Ann Dodds, program manager, All Nations Rise; and Persia (PURR-zhuh) Erdrich (URRD-rick), lead teacher, Grandmother’s House at Fond du Lac Tribal College.
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Disclosure: The Children's Defense Fund Minnesota Chapter contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy & Priorities, and Children's Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.
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December 10, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Concerns mount about future of federal environmental justice grants
The EPA's Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program focuses on environmental justice issues in disadvantaged communities. The money has been hailed by advocates as one of the most important federal investments ever made in closing the nation's long-standing socioeconomic and racial gaps. But changes in leadership in the White House threaten these funds. (Freepik)
AN INSIDE CLIMATE NEWS/MINNESOTA NEWS CONNECTION COLLABORATION - President-elect Donald Trump and members of his inner circle plan to cut money in the Inflation Reduction Act allocated for climate efforts. Hundreds of millions of dollars under that law have yet to reach environmental justice organizations. Comments from Julia Nerbonne (NURR-bun), executive director, Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light.
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December 9, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
New research says Midwest is prime target for wetlands loss
The Union of Concerned Scientists warns that several Midwestern states, including Minnesota, could lose $22 billion in flood mitigation benefits as industrial farm expansion threatens wetlands. (Freepik)
How the nation produces food is getting more attention as the effects of industrial agriculture become more visible. Researchers say wetlands, and their ability to prevent floods, are among the casualties as land is gobbled up for big farms. Comments from Stacy Woods, research director for the Food & Environment program, Union of Concerned Scientists.
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December 4, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
MN workplace injuries plummet, with some caveats
State officials say in 2023, Minnesota's workplace injury and illness rate fell to an all-time low. (Freepik)
Newly released data show a downward trend in workplace injuries and illnesses, in Minnesota and nationally. Union voices say the news is encouraging, but there are lingering concerns, including some affected workers being denied benefits. Comments from Brad Lehto (LETT-oh), secretary-treasurer, Minnesota AFL-CIO.
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December 2, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
MN's free college tuition program gets early assessment
Balancing college expenses, and going through the student aid application process, is often viewed as a daunting task for most households. Backers of Minnesota's new free tuition program hope it removes a lot of stress for eligible households. (Freepik)
Policy advocates and educational leaders are monitoring the early progress of Minnesota's new free college tuition program for low-income students. As a new semester approaches, those eligible who haven't applied yet are encouraged to give this incentive a strong look. Comments from Mike Dean, executive director, North Star Prosperity.
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November 29, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Despite shopping habits, value of American-made gifts has public backing
As Americans do their holiday shopping, a new poll from the Alliance for American Manufacturing found three in four adults think companies falsely marketing products as "Made in USA" should face penalties. (Freepik)
A new poll shows Minnesotans, and the majority of Americans, favor U.S.-made gifts, but a significant percentage of holiday purchases are still expected to be made through Chinese shopping apps. Comments from Patti Steger (STEE-gurr), owner, Steger Designs, Inc.; and Scott Paul, president of the Alliance for American Manufacturing.
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November 27, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
In day-to-day life, 'solo agers' lean on neighbors and friends
In a recent AARP survey of "solo agers," only 38% said they knew someone who could help manage ongoing care needs. (Freepik)
A KFF HEALTH NEWS/MINNESOTA NEWS CONNECTION COLLABORATION – American society rests on an assumption that families take care of their own. But 15 million Americans age 50 and older don’t have any close family members to help them with any needs as they age. That's bringing attention to the issue of "solo agers" and the types of support they're finding. Comments from Linda Camp, former administrator for the City of St. Paul, Minn., who has written several reports about solo agers.
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November 25, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Mpls. solar nonprofit proves patience brings results to low-income residents
Jacques Beech saw his electric bill fall to $100 a month after installing solar panels on his Minneapolis home. (Photo courtesy Brad Stauffer for Energy News Network)
AN ENERGY NEWS NETWORK/SOLUTIONS JOURNALISM NETWORK/MINNESOTA NEWS CONNECTION COLLABORATION – Information gaps have been cited as barriers in getting marginalized communities to sign up for solar installations. Solstar is a retired solar entrepreneur’s effort to bring solar, and jobs, to a community where he rarely worked during his three-decade career in the industry. Comments from Minneapolis solar customer Jacques Beech.
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November 22, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Researchers link better outcomes to MN adoption reforms
Minnesota's foster care entry rate has declined in recent years, along with efforts to bolster the state's adoption policies. (Adobe Stock)
The month of November is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the adoption of children from foster care. Nearly a decade ago, Minnesota made a policy change to incentivize this activity, and emerging research shows positive results. Comments from Aaron Sojourner, labor economist, Upjohn Institute for Employment Research.
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November 22, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Following solar news, is MN closer to reaching carbon-free goal?
Xcel Energy officials and Minnesota dignitaries gathered this week for a ceremonial connection of the company's Sherco solar facility. Phase One is now online and the utility says once fully operational, Sherco will power 150,000 homes. (Photo courtesy Xcel)
The Midwest saw some big energy production news week when a major utility unlocked the first phase of a large-scale solar project. Those involved with the project, and experts tracking the clean energy transition, say it puts Minnesota in a stronger position to meet its carbon-free electricity goal. Comments from Bria Shea (shay), regional vice president of regulatory planning and policy, Xcel Energy; and Jessica Hellmann, executive director, University of Minnesota’s Institute on the Environment.
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November 20, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Toy safety, environmental impacts cloud e-commerce holiday push
Researchers have found that online shopping generates 4.8 times more packaging waste than in-store purchases, on average. (Adobe Stock)
The next time you reach for your smartphone or iPad to buy a Christmas gift, consumer watchdogs ask that you do a little extra homework if it's an item from an overseas company. They express concern about an influx of unsafe toys being shipped to the U.S., and clean-air advocates worry about the negative environmental impacts from e-commerce. Comments from Teresa Murray, consumer watchdog director, U.S. PIRG ("purg," hard "G") Education Fund.
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November 18, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Checking the pulse of MN's news landscape
University of Minnesota researchers say for every two news outlets around the state that have closed up shop since 2018, one new local outlet has launched during the same period. (Adobe Stock)
It might be in a better position than some other states, but Minnesota's media ecosystem still has its challenges. New research touches on the strengths as well as some of the vulnerabilities. It remains an open question as to whether enough communities around the state will have access to reliable information about current events. Comments from Ben Toff, director, Minnesota Journalism Center at the University of Minnesota.
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November 15, 2024
By Mike Moen - Producer, Contact
Putting farm fields under a green blanket with climate friendly fertilizer
Certain farm fertilizers significantly contribute to climate change by emitting nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas, when excess fertilizer is not absorbed by plants and is broken down by soil microbes. (Adobe Stock)
The pursuit of cleaner air for Minnesotans doesn't just boil down to reducing emissions from power plants and transportation. Key organizations say agriculture plays a role, too, and they point to innovative efforts to have more farmland fertilized with a product that produces less of an emissions punch. Comments from Margaret Cherne-Hendrick (Cherne sounds like "churr-nee"), senior lead, innovation and impact, Fresh Energy; and Anne Schwagerl (SHWAG-ull), vice president, Minnesota Farmers Union.
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