Stories from September 5, 2019

Vitamin E suspected in serious lung problems among people who vaped cannabis
New York officials say tests found high levels of vitamin E in cannabis vaping products used by people who developed lung damage. But it's only one of many possible causes still under investigation.
Newly hired scientist for California among boat fire victims
Aboard were respected scientists, engineers, free spirits and parents with their teenage and adult children — all brought together over a passion for scuba diving. Two divers were celebrating their birthdays.
Meet Minnesota’s first puppy, Scout
The Walz family welcomed a 3-month old rescue puppy into their home, fulfilling a promise the governor made to his son on the campaign trail last fall.
Trade war taking a toll in Minnesota
With the addition of new tariffs last Sunday, Minnesota retailers say they’re going to start adding the cost to prices. Ag producers are at risk of losing export markets.
Central Minn. colleges raise funds for Bahamas relief
Students at the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University are raising money for relief efforts in the Bahamas, devastated this week by Hurricane Dorian. About 1,200 alumni of the two colleges live on the islands, including both the president and provost of the University of the Bahamas.
MN authorities look for former Canadian reservist linked to right-wing extremist group
The Winnipeg Free Press linked Patrik Mathews to a right-wing extremist group known as “The Base.” The Royal Canadian Mounted Police say Mathews is not facing any criminal charges and consider the case a missing-person investigation.
Hurricane Dorian's wrath is linked to climate change
Hurricane Dorian parked itself over the Bahamas for multiple days, causing massive flooding and wind damage. It turns out atmospheric conditions linked to climate change are causing more and more hurricanes to move slowly.
Minnesota Somalis get a national forum on NPR’S 1A
1A interviewed Somalis in Minneapolis on a variety of issues related to their experiences coming to and living in Minnesota.
How Amazon hooked America on fast delivery while avoiding responsibility for crashes
A ProPublica investigation found Amazon escapes responsibility for its role in deaths and serious injuries even though the company keeps a tight grip on how third-party delivery drivers do their jobs.
Locked-out guards picket Monticello nuclear plant
The 23 union employees work for a London-based company under contract with Xcel to provide security for the plant. The company has brought in replacement security personnel during the lockout.
Report: 11 more women accuse Plácido Domingo of sexual misconduct
Since August, 20 women have made allegations against the highly influential opera star via reports published by The Associated Press. A spokesperson for Domingo disputed the report.
Navigating gender identity at school
School leaders are talking more with students and families about pronoun use, bathrooms and other facets of gender identity. A pediatrician specializing in gender health and a teacher-turned-advocate share their advice with MPR News.
The three months between Memorial Day and Labor Day are known as the 100 deadliest days on Minnesota roads. The Department of Public Safety says this year was no different, with 132 people dying in summer traffic accidents.
Michigan State University to pay $4.5 million fine over Larry Nassar scandal
For decades Nassar, a university doctor, sexually abused female patients under the guise of medical treatment. Now, the Department of Education is punishing the school for its "abhorrent" response.
'It's very dangerous': Dorian drenches Carolinas as eye churns offshore
The Category 2 hurricane is just off the coast, and its heavy winds and rains are hammering the Southeast. "If you don't need to be out," South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster says, "don't go out.”
La Crosse trail runner sets Superior Hiking Trail speed record
Austin Nastrom spent more than 6 days on the route. It is the fastest known time for a supported athlete — which means he traveled with a crew of family, friends and a coworker who addressed his needs every 7-10 miles.
Minnesota health officials say severe lung injuries linked to vaping THC
The Minnesota Department of Health says nearly 30 such cases in Minnesota are among hundreds reported nationwide. Many cases seem to be linked to marijuana consumption.
Historic Superior lighthouse sold at auction
A California tech exec bought the lighthouse, built in 1913, for $159,000, as his own “fortress of solitude.” He hopes to renovate it, spend a few weeks in it every summer on the shore of Lake Superior, and rent it out to writers and others.
Powerful Hurricane Dorian edges closer to the South Carolina coast
It’ll feel summery Thursday afternoon in southern and central Minnesota plus parts of western Wisconsin. Thunderstorm chances will continue in some areas. Hurricane Dorian’s track brings it closer to the South Carolina coast.
Trump's all about the base, but he likely needs more than that — here's why
A lot of focus is put on the president's job approval nationwide, but all that matters in the end is the president's standing state by state — and that leaves him with a narrow path to reelection.
In Pittsburgh, juvenile offenders in jail go back to school, too
The Allegheny County Jail runs a full high school for juveniles charged as adults. "In this part of the building, you are a student," Principal Jay Moser tells students on the first day.
Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg says her work keeps her going
Ginsburg, who is now 86, finished a round of radiation treatment for pancreatic cancer in late August and told the audience of 15,000-plus people of all ages that “my work keeps me going.”
Victim of Brock Turner sexual assault reveals her identity
Chanel Miller introduced herself to the public Tuesday ahead of the release of her memoir, Know My Name, later in the month. The lenient sentence handed to Turner in 2016 prompted a public outcry.
Longtime Wisconsin Rep. Sensenbrenner won't seek re-election
Longtime Wisconsin Republican Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner, known for his role in the impeachment of President Bill Clinton and passing the anti-terrorism Patriot Act after 9/11, said Wednesday he will not seek re-election.
Appetites: Beyond Nutella, how to use hazelnuts in your kitchen
Chef and food writer Beth Dooley says hazelnuts are one of the most sustainable crops in the world, as well as a great source of plant protein. Dooley shares how she uses hazelnut oils, flowers and the nuts on this week’s Appetites.