August 12, 2003 -
August 5, 2003 - Minnesota is already a national leader in alternative energy, thanks to the state's abundant wind power and support for corn-based ethanol. Officials also think the state can be a player when it comes to hydrogen fuel cells. The potentially pollution-free power source is being touted for cars, laptop computers, and homes. Yesterday (MONDAY) Governor Pawlenty ceremonially flipped on one of the state's first industrial fuel cell generators. Minnesota Public Radio's Jeff Horwich reports.
August 4, 2003 - In tough financial times, the country's major airlines are saving money by hiring outside companies to repair their airplanes. Eagan-based Northwest Airlines now hires companies both in the U.S. and overseas to do a larger portion of its maintenance than ever before. A recent government report has raised new questions about this trend. Northwest union mechanics say it could mean lower-quality repairs, and put flights at greater risk of terrorist attack. Northwest says outsourcing is not only safe, but critical to the airline's survival. Minnesota Public Radio's Jeff Horwich reports.
July 25, 2003 - Governor Tim Pawlenty's relationship to a pay phone company may get a closer look from the state's top campaign finance officials. The chairman of the Minnesota DFL party today filed a complaint against Pawlenty with the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board. The complaint says Pawlenty may have knowingly falsified campaign finance information in order to hide his income from New Access Communications. Pawlenty has said he made an honest filing mistake, and there was nothing shady about his work for New Access. Minnesota Public Radio's Jeff Horwich reports.
July 23, 2003 - Today (WEDS) officials in St. Paul announced what they say is a new method of economic development. They cut the ribbon outside a new office complex that will be co-owned, 50-50, by the St. Paul Port Authority and a private developer. Those involved say this kind of public-private cooperation has never been tried in Minnesota, and may be new to the nation. Minnesota Public Radio's Jeff Horwich reports.
July 17, 2003 - (On paper, Northwest made money over the last three months. But executives say in reality the airline experienced one of the worst performances in company history.
July 17, 2003 -
July 15, 2003 - Several Minnesota business leaders told a top U.S. trade official yesterday Mon that they could use more help from Washington. U.S. Undersecretary for International Trade, Grant Aldonas, is touring the country to hear from American manufacturers. In Minnesota, many believe the present and future of manufacturing are tied to medical devices and biotechnology. But six leaders in the field told Aldonas the government is not always giving them the support they need. Minnesota Public Radio's Jeff Horwich reports.
July 14, 2003 -
July 11, 2003 - Twenty-thousand Shriners just grabbed their red fezzes and left the Twin Cities. Now a new group has arrived, carrying another distinctive accessory. The World Saxophone Congress has convened for four days at the University of Minnesota. Seven-hundred-fifty classical saxophone players are here from more than 15 countries for saxophone concerts, saxophone classes, and a constant stream of saxophone conversations. Minnesota Public Radio's Jeff Horwich stopped by.