Stories from June 21, 2022

Putting the heat into perspective
100 degrees is not a common occurrence in the Twin Cities, even less so in June. We broke other records that may have gone otherwise unnoticed.
Texas top cop: Uvalde police could've ended rampage early on
Police had enough officers and firepower on the scene of the Uvalde school massacre to have stopped the gunman three minutes after he entered the building, and they would have found the door to the classroom where he was holed up unlocked if they had bothered to check it, the head of the Texas state police testified Tuesday, pronouncing the law enforcement response an “abject failure.”
Minneapolis assisted-living facility becomes shelter for homeless youth
A facility opening in Minneapolis will be the largest shelter for homeless youth in Minnesota. Catholic Charities converted a former senior living community to house up to 30 young people, as well as case managers, counselors and other staff.
Biden, Chevron chief trade sharp words over gas prices
In a pointed back and forth, the head of Chevron complained Tuesday that President Joe Biden has vilified energy firms at a time when gasoline prices are at near record levels and the president responded that the oil company CEO was being “mildly sensitive.”
After years of waiting, Minnesotans are on the verge of COVID shots for the youngest kids, and Keith Ellison vows to protect abortion rights in Minnesota. This is an evening update from MPR News, hosted by Tim Nelson. Music by Gary Meister.
More pleasant Wednesday; heat returns Thursday
It will be a much more comfortable overnight across Minnesota as drier air allows temperatures to fall into the 60s and 50s. Wednesday will be pleasant before the heat builds back in Thursday. A few thunderstorms become possible Friday and Saturday.
More women of color are starting businesses
The number of women of color entrepreneurs is on the rise. In a special episode of the podcast “small change: Money Stories from the Neighborhood” co-hosts Chris Farrell and Twila Dang talk with the female founders of four Minnesota small businesses about how they managed entrenched barriers and found success.
1/6 panel: Local 'heroes' rebuffed Trump, then faced threats
The House Jan. 6 committee has heard chilling, tearful testimony that Donald Trump’s relentless pressure to overturn the 2020 presidential election led to widespread threats against local workers and state officials.
Less humid Tuesday, cooler Wednesday; heat's back Thursday
While it will still be very warm Tuesday, the dew points will drop as a west breeze brings in much more comfortable air. Wednesday will be cooler before it’s hotter again Thursday.
One dead as severe storms sweep across Minnesota
One person died as severe storms packing winds in excess of 90 mph swept across Minnesota overnight.
Allyson Felix launches a child care initiative for athlete moms
Allyson Felix is the most decorated US track and field athlete in history. As she wraps up her last season, she focuses on supporting other athletes moms.
Chief Justice Lorie Gildea of the Minnesota Supreme Court issued a ruling Monday that Minneapolis' mayor should employ a certain number of police officers or demonstrate why higher staffing levels are not possible. The ruling sends the case back to district court. This is a morning update from MPR News, hosted by Cathy Wurzer. Music by Gary Meister.
Still hot Tuesday; dropping dew points
Tuesday will yield another hot day but with dropping dew points making it feel much more comfortable than the last two days. Wednesday will be cooler before it heats up again.
George Floyd killing: Ex-cops' state trial moved to October
J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao are now set to go to trial on Oct. 24. They face aiding and abetting charges in Floyd’s killing while in police custody. The state trial has been repeatedly delayed as the ex-officers faced federal charges for violating Floyd's civil rights.
MN Supreme Court says Frey has 'clear legal duty' to hire more police
Chief Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Lorie Gildea issued a ruling Monday that Minneapolis' mayor should employ a certain number of police officers or demonstrate why a higher staffing level is not possible.
If you can't get in to Yellowstone, here are some ways to salvage your trip
Yellowstone is working to fully reopen, but there are new entry restrictions and many could be turned away at the gates. Here are some other vacation options nearby that are worth your while.
Locals endure monthslong emotional grind of living beside flooding Rainy Lake
People who have battled rising floodwaters on Rainy Lake along the Canadian border since the end of April finally got some good news last week when the giant lake crested. But weeks of constant work and stress have taken an emotional toll.
Hot into the overnight; storms mainly north/west
It’ll remain hot overnight Monday night with scattered storms in northern, central, and western Minnesota.. Severe thunderstorm watches are posted for portions of Minnesota Monday night.