September 9, 2003 - The recording industry filed hundreds of lawsuits yesterday accusing individuals of illegally downloading and sharing songs over the Internet. Two-hundred and sixty-one complaints were filed in federal courts across the country by the Recording Industry Association of America on behalf of its members -- which include the Universal Music Group, BMG, and Sony Music. More lawsuits are expected. As chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, Senator Norm Coleman has promised to hold hearings on the music industry's use of copyright subpoenas to track downloaders. The Minnesota Republican says file-sharing is a very real problem, but he says the tactic of charging hundreds of individuals is excessive.
September 9, 2003 - Governor Tim Pawlenty and State Agriculture Commissioner Gene Hugoson visited the Southeastern Minnesota town of Mazeppa (mah-ZEP-ah) this morning to evaluate crop damage from this summer's drought. Mainstreet Radio's Rob Schmitz reports. {Mazeppa Farmer Dale Stensland says as of the fourth of July weekend, things were looking good this year. Area farmers anticipated another bumper crop. But then, he says, trouble loomed.
September 9, 2003 - Hennepin County Commissioners today (Tues) refrained from setting the highest possible property tax levy for next year, despite a grim budget outlook. Those supporting the lower levy limit say keeping taxes down is important for families during tough economic times. Opponents on the County Board, however, say it means there will be ten million dollars less for services for needy residents. Minnesota Public Radio's Art Hughes reports.
September 10, 2003 - Two money-saving initiatives in the Minneapolis school district are drawing criticism. Hundreds of teachers demonstrated at Tuesday's school board meeting and accused district officials of illegally withholding pay increases. School board member are also facing tough questions from some parents, who are upset over a plan to close or realign several schools. Minnesota Public Radio's Tim Pugmire reports...
September 10, 2003 - The Minnesota Health Department is reporting the state's first death from the West Nile Virus. The department says the death occurred in northwest Minnesota. The mosquito-borne disease was first diagnosed in Minnesota in July of last year. Health officials say it's the peak period for reporting West Nile-related illnesses, so they expect more cases in the coming weeks. Minnesota Public Radio's Tom Scheck reports...
September 10, 2003 - In Duluth's primary election Tuesday, voters narrowed a wide field of candidates for mayor. City councilor Herb Bergson and businessman Charlie Bell will face each other in November. Mainstreet Radio's Stephanie Hemphill reports.
September 11, 2003 - Commemorations of the second anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks will be held this morning in New York, Washington and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. There will be observances in our region as well. A memorial event will be held tonight at Midway Stadium in St. Paul... and Governor Tim Pawlenty is planning to be there.
September 11, 2003 - Two years ago today, the terrorist attacks changed our world dramatically. This week we asked you to tell us if the attacks have made a lasting impact on you or your family and whether that impact has faded. Letty, who lives in St. Louis Park writes that she has been permanently affected:
September 12, 2003 - A federal judge has awarded control of the Mall of America to the four brothers who first proposed the idea. The Ghermezian (gher-MAY'-zee-un) brothers of Canada said they were misled and ignored by the mall's managing partner in a battle over ownership control of the megamall. But Simon Property Group says it will challenge the ruling. Minnesota Public Radio's Bill Catlin reports.
September 12, 2003 - A rainstorm didn't halt the state's largest September 11 memorial ceremony last (THURSDAY) night in St. Paul. Governor Pawlenty and other leaders told a small but dedicated crowd the fight against terrorism must continue. They said Minnesotans can channel their emotions into community service here at home. Minnesota Public Radio's Jeff Horwich reports.