May 8, 2002 - MPR’s Laura McCallum reports that Governor Ventura and his staff are preparing for the worst. If the government doesn't figure out a budget, then he will do it himself and call the legislature into a special session. He can also call a special session in September, during election months, which some see as a way to make the candidates look bad.
May 8, 2002 - The long-time publisher of the Daily Globe in Worthington, James Vance died yesterday. Considered an industry innovator, He left his mark on the paper as reporter, photographer and later publisher. In the early sixties, Vance introduced a new form of publishing. "Cold type" was the precursor to today's computer typesetting. Vance hired a young photographer named Jim Brandenburg. Brandenburg later went on to become an award-winning National Geographic photographer. Brandenburg was head of the photography department at the Globe for many years. He says Vance left a profound impression on him.
May 9, 2002 - Minnesota Public Radio's Tom Scheck reports that Governor Ventura re-entered budget negotiations as the legislative session heads into its final stages. Ventura called legislative leaders to his office to tell them what he expected in the proposed budget balancing plan, transportation financing package and bonding bill.
May 16, 2002 - Children's book author Mary Casanova was inspired to write her new book after spending time with eagle researchers on Minnesota's Rainy Lake. "When Eagles Fall" introduces young-adult readers to 13-year -old Alex. She's an angry girl sent to live with her father in Minnesota's north woods. Alex is dealing with the death of her younger brother, her parent's separation and typical teenage growing pains. Alex's emotions get the best of her as she defies her father and sets out on an adventure to save a baby eagle.
May 17, 2002 - Ann Bancroft talks with MPR’s Cathy Wurzer about her six-week trip paddling across the Great Lakes.
May 20, 2002 - MPR’s Cathy Wurzer interviews R.T. Rybak, Mayor of Minneapolis, on state capital stadium bill. Governor Jesse Ventura has 14 days to decided what to do with a Twins stadium financing plan that lawmakers sent him late Saturday night. The deal for a 330-million-dollar ballpark, requires a 120 million private contribution (facilitated by the Twins) prior to any bond sale. In addition, the team would pay ten million dollars a year in rent. Proponents of a new ballpark in Minneapolis were hoping the bill would allow a county to finance the local portion of the cost, but that did not happen. Rybak says because of that Minneapolis appears to be out of the running as a location for a new ballpark.
May 23, 2002 - More than 30 state legislators won't be returning to their seats in 2003…retiring DFL State Senator Doug Johnson of Tower is one of them. Senator Johnson talks about his 30-year career in the Minnesota Legislature.
May 23, 2002 - An All Things Considered/Mainstreet Radio profile of author and poet BIll Holm, his small home town Minneota, and literary history of nearby Marshall. Program includes interview with Holm, various readings performed by MPR staff, and musical elements.
May 29, 2002 - MPR’s Greta Cunningham interviews Dick Moesing, who recounts his brother-in-law's story of losing a hammer during a round of dome repairs on the Cathedral of St. Paul during a round of repairs in the 1950's. During 2002 restoration, that hammer has reappeared, and being given back to the family.
May 29, 2002 - MPR's Tom Scheck reports that the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission has delayed a vote on a proposed settlement that would keep the Minnesota Twins in the Metrodome through the 2003 season. In exchange, the commission would drop its lawsuit against the team and league. Commission members say they're committed to keeping the Twins in the state but say they want the settlement in writing before they vote.