December 8, 2004 - The Pew Internet and American Life Project raised some hackles this week with a survey declaring "the vast majority" of artists and musicians "do not see online file-sharing as a big threat." The survey found artists heavily divided on the issue of music swapping. For example, roughly half say it should be legal to make a copy of a song and send it to a friend. The other half say it should be against the law.
December 9, 2004 - A commissioner from the Federal Communications Commission is in the Twin Cities today
December 15, 2004 - Computers are cheaper than ever, but if you're looking at a new machine this holiday season, Dwight Silverman of the Houston Chronicle says beware of the low, low prices.
December 16, 2004 - MPR announces "diverse" musical format for old WCAL. Steve Nelson, program director for 89.3 KCMP, discusses the new program and plans for KCMP 89.3, formally known as WCAL 89.3.
December 21, 2004 - The Minnesota Twins have reached one-year contract agreements with five players including a $5 million deal with right fielder Jacque Jones. The Twins offered arbitration to four other players, including Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana. General Manager Terry Ryan takes a few questions from MPR Morning Edition producer Jim Bickal.
December 22, 2004 - Governor Pawlenty today (WED) proposed a ten-year, seven-billion dollar transportation package. He says it will accelerate dozens of road and transit projects across the state. The plan wouldn't begin until 2007, and relies heavily on borrowed money. DFL leaders called it a credit card financing scheme. Minnesota Public Radio's Laura McCallum reports...
December 27, 2004 - Mainstreet Radio’s Tom Robertson reports on how Anderson Fabrics in Blackduck, Minnesota is looking for immigrants to solve a labor shortage problem. After a failed attempt with Hmong employees due to a culture clash, company hopes to find a solution in the Twin Cities Latino community. Nearly 40 Latino workers moved from the Twin Cities to Blackduck in the fall of 2004. Blackduck school and community leaders are now bracing for what's expected to be a wave of Latino families.
December 27, 2004 - MPR’s Mark Zdechlik prepared this documentary, looking back at Minnesota's battleground role in the 2004 race for the White House. Includes numerous interviews and speeches.
December 29, 2004 - Mainstreet Radio's Tom Robertson reports that Federal agents at the U.S.-Canadian border crossing in International Falls have a new tool to enhance homeland security. Customs officials have begun using digital fingerprint technology to verify the identity of some foreign visitors.
December 31, 2004 - Mainstreet Radio’s Erin Galbally presents a report on Mankato’s historic Kato Ballroom, which opened its doors back in the early 1950s around the advent of rock and roll. Before long the Kato established itself as a Mankato hotspot, hosting legends like Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis and even Louis Armstrong. This New Year's Eve, the Kato revisits that history with a party celebrating its 50th anniversary. Galbally interviews Larry Bowers, manager of the Kato Ballroom, and Dianne Cory, a long-time regular, who share memories and insights of the venue. Segment includes music clip of Bobby Vee's 'Run to Him.'