Stories from July 11, 2020

Parts of Minnesota same some severe weather on Saturday, but we aren’t expecting any weather drama on Sunday. Details on all that, plus a look at the week ahead.
Mueller defends Russia probe, says Stone remains a felon
Former special counsel Robert Mueller wrote that the Russia probe was of “paramount importance” and asserted that a Trump ally, Roger Stone, “remains a convicted felon, and rightly so" despite the president's decision to commute his prison sentence.
Trump wears mask in public for first time during pandemic
President Trump wore a mask during a visit to a military hospital on Saturday, the first time the president has been seen in public with the type of facial covering recommended by health officials as a precaution against spreading the coronavirus.
The federal government has denied a request from the state of Minnesota for a disaster declaration and financial support, to help clean up and repair fire damage from unrest following the police killing of George Floyd. MPR News update for July 11, 2020. Hosted by Emily Bright. Our theme music is by Gary Meister. 
'Unprecedented, historic corruption': Romney criticizes Trump's decision to commute Stone's sentence
The president's decision to grant clemency to his longtime friend drew vehement criticism from Democratic lawmakers. Republicans largely kept silent, with one notable exception: Sen. Mitt Romney.
Federal government denies Minnesota’s request for aid to clean up, rebuild in Twin Cities
The federal government has denied a request from the state of Minnesota for a disaster declaration and accompanying financial support, to help clean up and repair fire damage from unrest following the police killing of George Floyd.
'Utopia Avenue,' the greatest sixties band that never was
David Mitchell's new novel chronicles the rise and fall of fictional 1960s psychedelic rock band. He says he was drawn to both the music and the "dark magic that was in the air" in that era.
Minnesota and western Wisconsin will see scattered thunderstorms at times today and tonight. We have the updated severe weather outlook, plus a look at Sunday and the week ahead.
Our Saturday will feature many dry hours, plus scattered showers and thunderstorms at times. Have a Plan B for your outdoor activities in case you have to duck indoors for a few minutes.
You know how 'Survivor Song' will end. It's still horrifying.
Paul Tremblay's new novel, about a viral outbreak that locks down New England, hits close to home. Taking place over just a few hours, it's both a zombie horror tale and a focused, personal drama.
Coronavirus FAQ: How do I protect myself if the coronavirus can linger in the air?
Researchers say airborne transmission is possible, especially in cramped, indoor settings — but it's unclear how much it contributes to the spread of the coronavirus. Here's how to lower your risks, just in case.
Trump commutes sentence of longtime friend and adviser Roger Stone
The president has used his clemency power to spare Stone a prison sentence following his conviction in a federal court. It's the latest official intercession in a case involving a friend of Trump.