April 22, 1999 - The school shootings in Littleton, Colorado, has re-opened a debate here in Minnesota over permits for concealed weapons. Governor Jesse Ventura is speculating so-called "concealed-carry" laws could have prevented the violence in Colorado. Opponents say more guns only lead to more bloodshed.
April 21, 1999 - Last night, the board voted to undo a compromise that would have left the decision up to individual schools, but the board added a provision requiring parental consent.
April 19, 1999 - Two top federal officials visiting Minnesota heard the complaints of farmers concerned about increasing consolidation in agri-business. At yesterday's hearing in South St. Paul, the farmers argued mergers and acquisitions are strangling competition for their products, and driving down commodity prices. They say its forcing them to struggle just to break even.
April 16, 1999 - The Minnesota House has passed a $3.3 billion transportation bill. Two proposals heavily favored by Governor Jesse Ventura -- light-rail transit and reducing license tab fees -- were conspicuously absent.
April 13, 1999 - Governor Jesse Ventura went head-to-head with critics of his transportation programs earlier today. During a speech in downtown Minneapolis , members of the Libertarian party heckled the governor for his support of light-rail transit in the Twin Cities.
April 8, 1999 - This has not been edited! The University of Minnesota now says damage done by animal rights activists who broke into a university research facility earlier this week could extend into the millions of dollars. The Animal Liberation Front has claimed responsibility for the break-in, which freed more than one hundred lab animals and destroyed computers, microscopes, and other lab equipment. As the investigation continues, activists on both sides of the issue are speaking up.
April 7, 1999 - The Minnesota Twins opened their 1999 season with a win, defeating the Toronto Blue Jays 6-1 at the Metrodome. The victory comes amid low expectations for this year's team which includes a large number of rookies. 10 of the 25 names on team roster are new to Major League Baseball. MPR's Michael Khoo reports the lack of star power hasn't dampened fan enthusiasm.
April 6, 1999 - Minnesota's U-S Senators, DFLer Paul Wellstone and Republican Rod Grams, made a rare joint appearance for a journalism awards ceremony at the University of Minnesota. The intended topic of discussion was the impeachment procedure and policy in the 1999 Congress. But talk quickly turned to the conflict in Kosovo. The two senators are known for disagreeing with each other. As Minnesota Public Radio's Michael Khoo reports, last night was no exception.
March 26, 1999 - Heading into this year's legislative session, many lawmakers declared relief for the state's struggling farmers a top priority. However, nearly three months into the session, no consensus has emerged on how to provide assistance. With spring planting only weeks away, no relief appears imminent in a marketplace where commodity prices remain low. Yesterday, more than one hundred farmers gathered at the state capitol to voice their concerns about worsening agricultural conditions and make their case for tax reforms.
March 24, 1999 - The Brooklyn Park City Council has approved an outdoor amphitheater for the Minnesota Orchestra. The decision was welcomed by Orchestra officials, but the project faced strong opposition from many area residents who fear the venue will host noisy pop music acts.