February 17, 2004 -
February 19, 2004 - Several DFL lawmakers unveiled a plan today to ban smoking in all public buildings in Minnesota, including bars and restaurants. They say the ban would help reduce smoking related illnesses and boost business. Critics say the bill is unfair because state government should not impose additional regulations on businesses. Minnesota Public Radio's Tom Scheck reports.
February 20, 2004 -
February 23, 2004 - Ralph Nader announced Sunday that he will run as an Independent candidate in this year's presidential race. He is telling Democrats not to panic over his candidacy. He says he thinks he'll attract conservatives and other independents who are frustrated with President Bush's policies -- but that he won't lure away a lot of Democratic voters.
February 23, 2004 - Midday presents former President Jimmy Carter speaking at the annual Nobel Peace Prize Forum at St. Olaf College in Northfield. Carter gives the keynote address and says Americans aren't doing enough to help people in developing countries.
February 24, 2004 - Vice President Dick Cheney ended his Minnesota trip yesterday with a visit to St. Paul's El Burrito Mercado, where he picked up a jar of salsa, a pinata, and perhaps a few votes. Hispanics are now the largest minority group in the nation, and a tempting bloc of voters during this year's presidential contest. Cheney toured the Mexican market and restaurant and touted the administration's economic record.
February 24, 2004 -
February 24, 2004 - Governor Tim Pawlenty says federal concerns won't prompt him to shut down a state website that provides consumer information on Canadian pharmacies. The Food and Drug Administration sent Pawlenty a letter yesterday (MONDAY) calling the website "unsafe, unsound and ill-considered". Attorney General Mike Hatch says the FDA doesn't have any grounds for legal action against the website. Minnesota Public Radio's Laura McCallum reports...
February 24, 2004 -
February 27, 2004 - A delegation from the St. Paul is heading to Thailand today to visit the camp just north of Bangkok where thousands of Hmong refugees have been living for more than a decade. The group includes St. Paul Mayor Randy Kelly and other government officials, as well as representatives from human services agencies and the St. Paul Public Schools. Minnesota Public Radio's Toni Randolph reports.