Stories from August 24, 2022

Kautz calls the stylistically innovative novel “part family drama, part ghost story, part coming-of-age and critique of American imperialism in the Pacific.”
Minneapolis residents push back on MPD drone policy
Police told members of the Minneapolis City Council that the drones would not be used in surveillance, but would be used to help coordinate law enforcement responses during emergencies.
Minnesota college students and graduates stand to benefit from a program announced by President Biden Wednesday. It will forgive up to $10,000 in federal student loans for most borrowers, and up to $20,000 for Pell Grant recipients. Those expected to benefit most include those who attended the state’s two year colleges and technical institutes. This is the afternoon MPR News update for August 24, 2022. Hosted by Kirsti Marohn. Theme music by Gary Meister.
As Minnesota State Fair returns, have we seen 'peak fair'?
Before COVID, Minnesota State Fair attendance reached a record 2.1 million in 2019. The fair's growth had become an end-of-summer ritual. But amid concerns about COVID and public safety, can that growth resume? Or have we already experienced what might be called "peak fair"?
Jensen stands by comments comparing mask mandates to Nazi Germany
Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Jensen originally made the comments back in April and a video of the remarks surfaced this week. He stood by them on Tuesday in a video posted to Facebook, which he called a “point of clarification.”
Based on the data, here are the lower traffic days to visit the State Fair
Based on the last nine years of State Fair attendance data, the first Thursday of the Great Get-Together tends to have the lowest traffic. Even though 2021 had slower traffic overall, trends for attendance data remain consistent.
How loan forgiveness tied to for-profit colleges is affecting former Minnesota students
Ashley Sibri graduated from ITT Technical Institute, a for-profit college in Eden Prairie that is covered by the government’s loan forgiveness.
Sheletta Brundidge is using her influence to amplify diverse voices and celebrate Black culture in the Twin Cities, pushing for accountability from Minnesota-based companies who made promises tied to equity following the murder of George Floyd.
Minneapolis Public Schools face lawsuit over provision in teachers' contract
Minneapolis Public Schools are being sued over a provision in their new union contract that is designed to retain teachers of color. The provision upends long-standing last-in, first-out hiring practices for teachers.
Jill Schurtz named new leader of State Board of Investment
Jill Schurtz will be the new director of the Minnesota State Board of Investment, which manages a $125 billion portfolio that includes public pensions and other accounts.
Officials, neighbors say they're ready to keep this year's Minnesota State Fair a safe one
The Minnesota State Fair's new police chief, Ron Knafla, says 200 officers will be working on the 300-acre fairgrounds during this year’s fair. Neighbors are also teaming up to serve as ambassadors, guides and eyes on the streets surrounding the fair.
Storms develop later Wednesday; cooler Thursday
Muggy air and a disturbance will lead to a few showers and thunderstorms popping up late in the afternoon Wednesday into the evening. We’ll see cooler and drier air move in for Thursday and Friday.
Police at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport say they’ve found the family of an infant girl who turned up with a woman at one of the airport's light rail stations. This is a morning update from MPR News, hosted by Cathy Wurzer. Music by Gary Meister.
Spotty showers, storms Wednesday; clearing Thursday
The first of two disturbances brings some spotty showers and a few thunderstorms Wednesday across much of Minnesota along with some slightly muggy air. We’ll clear out Thursday with dropping dew points.
Verlander 6 no-hit innings, 16th W; Astros top Correa, Twins
Justin Verlander was pulled after pitching six no-hit innings in his major league-leading 16th win and the Astros beat the Minnesota Twins 4-2 in Carlos Correa’s return to Houston. 
High school athletes' new sponsorship options kick up debate among coaches
In June, the Minnesota State High School League approved guidance that allows students to sign name, image and likeness deals. While some coaches say the new policy helps young athletes, others are concerned about equity and team play.
Making the Get-Together great for everyone: State Fair focused on addressing accessibility
While the 12-day get-together can be the event of the year for Minnesotans, for some there are concerns about access. The State Fair is working to create a more inclusive environment, understanding and accommodating of people with disabilities.
Democrat Charlie Crist to face Ron DeSantis in Florida race for governor
Charlie Crist has won Florida's Democratic primary for governor and will challenge GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis in Nov. DeSantis has an edge when it comes to fundraising, incumbency and registered voters.