Stories from December 21, 2022

Blizzard conditions, bitter cold up next as snowfall eases
The second part of the storm is still on track to deliver high winds, blowing snow, blizzard conditions and dangerous wind chills Thursday into Saturday morning.
Winter storm, wind chill and blizzard warnings have been issued for much of the region as a two-part winter storm has the potential to make travel impossible in parts of Minnesota in the coming days. This is an evening update from MPR News, hosted by Jon Collins. Music by Gary Meister.
Tell MPR News: How is this winter storm affecting you?
A winter storm that began hitting much of Minnesota on Wednesday is poised to have widespread impact. Use this form to tell us what’s happening to you.
Share your winter holiday traditions with us
Minnesota’s holiday traditions are as unique and varied as the people who call the state home. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with three guests about the many unique holiday traditions in our state, where they came from and why they are important to us.
Walz fills out top agency posts ahead of second term
A mix of insiders and those new to government roles have been named to openings in Gov. Tim Walz’s cabinet ahead of his second term.
The Minnesota lake you won't find on any map
Jim Cotter, geology professor at the University of Minnesota Morris, is back with us on Minnesota Now to give us the next chapter in his geologist’s tour of Minnesota history.  
Report: Black women and girls disproportionately targeted for violence
According to a report from the state’s Missing and Murdered African American Women Task Force, Black women make up seven percent of the state population and make up 40 percent of domestic violence victims in Minnesota.
Google’s plans to build data center in Becker fizzle
City leaders remain hopeful that Xcel Energy will attract other businesses to Becker, including another data center, as it anticipates the closure of the Sherco coal-fired power plant.
Lawmakers approve near-$500 million office building expansion
The Minnesota House Rules Committee on Wednesday approved a $498 million proposal to renovate and expand the office building that houses lawmakers’ offices. Security and facilities experts had urged the project for more than a decade, but some Republicans questioned the project’s price tag.
If you're trying to take a break from drinking, try these 6 strategies
If you want to cut back on alcohol, here's how to make a plan, navigate tricky social situations and reassess your relationship with alcohol so you can experience the benefits of dry January.
Prosecutor: Deadly force by MPD snipers justified in Tekle Sundberg shooting
Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said Wednesday no charges will be brought against Minneapolis police snipers who killed Sundberg in July after he allegedly threatened to shoot officers after hours of standoff. Sundberg's family says he was having a mental health crisis.
Looking for medicine for a sick kid? You may be out of luck
A shortage of over-the-counter kid’s pain relief medicine is frustrating many parents trying to comfort sick children. Some medical experts say there are alternatives.
Big winds, blowing snow, subzero cold through Friday
Most of the accumulating snowfall will happen during the day Wednesday into the night with lighter snow showers Thursday. Snow and blowing snow will degrade travel across the region into at least late Friday.
Updates: Travelers, schools affected as winter storm blankets Minnesota
City, county and state plow crews were preparing for long shifts to clear highways across Minnesota. Many school districts canceled classes or announced they'll release students early. And utility companies were bracing for another round of possible power outages.
Travel conditions will deteriorate as snow moves in Wednesday. This is a morning MPR News update, hosted by Cathy Wurzer. Music by Gary Meister.
Reports: Mets swoop in overnight, snatch Correa for $315M
In a wild twist overnight, Carlos Correa has agreed to sign with the New York Mets hours after his pending deal with the San Francisco Giants fell apart, according to media reports. 
No bail for Minnesota man accused of prepping to fight cops
Bail has been denied for a Minnesota man authorities say was amassing an arsenal of guns to use against police before his arrest, and had idolized the person who killed five people at a gay nightclub in Colorado last month.
Critically ill mountain lion cub rescued in California
Wildlife officials rescued a critically ill mountain lion cub in Northern California and veterinarians named her “Holly” for the holiday season as they treat her in intensive care. 
The case of the two Grace Elliotts: A medical bill mystery
A health system charged a woman for a shoulder replacement she didn't need and hadn't received. She didn't receive the care, but she did receive the bill — and some medical records of a stranger.
Homeward Bound! Dog, found 1,600 miles away, will be home for Christmas
The german shepherd mix went missing in October 2021. Now, the friendly pooch is on a cross-country road trip from Kansas to California, back to the family who adopted him as an abandoned puppy.
Florida's effort to charge 20 people with voter fraud has hit some roadblocks
Months after the controversial arrests, one case ended with a plea deal and at least three have been dismissed. And attorneys say Florida's cases face a tough road — even if they make it to trial.
COVID nearly killed him, then the hard part began
Two years ago, Gabe Pastores was intubated and on last-ditch lifesaving measures in Mayo Clinic's COVID-19 wing. Many of those patients didn't make it out. Pastores did, but his COVID journey was far from over. 
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy preparing to visit DC on Wednesday
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is preparing to visit Washington on Wednesday, according to three AP sources, in his first known trip outside the country since Russia's invasion began in February.