Stories from January 30, 2021

The field of finalists is set for the 2021 Minnesota Book Awards. The winners will be announced at a online ceremony on April 29.
As Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson weighs future, Trump ties take a toll
Observers note that Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson, who is weighing whether to run for a third term in 2022, has often behaved like a senator from a solidly red state. But November's election demonstrated that Wisconsin is anything but.
Promising COVID-19 vaccine news has some itching to travel again
"People are tired of being at home," one travel advisor says as an industry decimated by the pandemic begins to see small signs that a recovery might be on the way.
In Iowa, a GOP stalwart becomes a casualty in party war
Years of anti-abortion rights advocacy and devout party organizing didn’t shield the Republican Party chair of one Iowa county from retribution, after he said President Donald Trump should be impeached for his role in the deadly Capitol riot.
CDC issues sweeping new mask mandate for public transit in U.S., extends eviction moratorium
The new travel order will require passengers to wear face coverings on nearly all forms of public transportation, including airplanes, ships, ferries, trains, subways, buses, taxis and ride-shares.
'She Persisted,' now in chapter book form, brings history to life
Chelsea Clinton has turned her “She Persisted” series of picture books into a new series of chapter books, written by prominent kids' authors. The new books really take readers inside historical lives.
Jan. 30 update on COVID-19 in MN: Trends look good, but new strains worrisome
Intensive care cases are at a four-month low in Minnesota, and the percentage of tests coming back positive is down to levels not seen since early July. But as the COVID-19 picture brightens heading into February, some warn the state isn’t out of the woods yet.
Be ready for some icy spots on untreated roads and sidewalks today. Then we’ll see some snow. We have your weekend forecast details.
Ask a Bookseller: A kids' graphic novel series — with unicorns
Theresa Woodward of CatTale’s Books and Gifts in Brainerd, Minn., recommends “Phoebe and her Unicorn” graphic novel series, which she has been loving reading with her 6-year-old daughter, Phoebe.
Greater Minnesota cities outline top legislative priorities
Communities across Minnesota are asking state lawmakers for more support for child care, housing, water infrastructure and aid to local governments this legislative session as smaller municipalities continue to navigate the economic fallout of the pandemic.