December 13, 2006 - The mayor of Worthington talks with MPR about how the federal raid at a major employer in town, the Swift Co. meat-packing plant, could affect the city economically.
December 20, 2006 - Martin Sabo, the 28-year congressman from Minnesota's fifth district, which is much of Hennepin county, is leaving after 28 years in office. He has built a reputation among as a strong Democrat, and many are sorry to see him go.
December 26, 2006 - MPR’s Bob Kelleher reports that the level of Lake Superior recently hit an all time low - at least in recorded history. That's making trouble for boaters, and especially for the big ore freighters. An extended drought and a warming lake are reasons behind the drop in water level.
January 8, 2007 - The families and supporters of meatpacking workers arrested in December in an immigration raid held a rally in Worthington, the location of the plant. Family members spoke on how their lives have been changed since the raid.
February 8, 2007 - About one hundred supporters and critics of a proposed copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota got together in Duluth last night to talk about the project. Polymet Mining Company is working on detailed studies about possible environmental impacts. They've got a long way to go, to convince some people the mine is a good idea. Minnesota Public Radio's Stephanie Hemphill reports.
February 12, 2007 - MPR’s Annie Baxter reports that All-Star catcher Joe Mauer will stay with Twins through 2010 after signing a $33 million contract. The length of contract coincides with season the team's new ballpark is scheduled to open.
February 22, 2007 - Minnesota has a new law establishing one of the most aggressive standards for renewable energy in the country. Governor Pawlenty signed a bill that would require utilities to generate more of their power from renewable sources over the next two decades. Pawlenty and others say they hope the bill is the first of many energy initiatives to reach the governor's desk this year. Minnesota Public Radio's Tom Scheck reports.
February 26, 2007 - MPR’s Stephanie Hemphill reports that commercial fishermen along the North Shore of Lake Superior could be allowed to bring more lake trout to market. A bill addressing the issue received a first hearing. Commercial trout fishing has been essentially banned on Lake Superior since the 1960s.
March 8, 2007 - MPR’s Marriane Combs takes a look at the early design drafts for the Minnesota Twins new ballpark. Combs highlights efforts to make venue different from a stadium…and neighborhood friendly.
April 10, 2007 - The Minnesota Twins and Hennepin County took a major step forward towards construction on the new ballpark as the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners approved changes to an agreement between the team and the county, which will give the Twins a larger financial and legal role in the ballpark plan. County officials welcomed the changes and said they will likely set the stage for groundbreaking next month.