Stories from March 13, 2023

Enjoy the sun again Tuesday. More snow and rain are on the way Thursday and Friday.
Ten more face federal charges in alleged huge Feeding our Future fraud case, and Native Americans first-ever get a day at the Capitol with the entire legislature. This is an evening update from MPR News with host Tim Nelson. Music by Gary Meister.
St. Paul schools to offer Karen language classes
Starting in fall 2023, Karen language courses will be offered to students in St. Paul Public Schools. The program is believed to be the first of its kind in the U.S. The language has been banned in schools in Myanmar since 1962.
'Do you see us?’ Minnesota tribal leaders drive discussion at Capitol
The Legislature devoted a day to focus on the concerns and sovereignty of Minnesota’s 11 federally-recognized Indian tribes. Tribal leaders say they hope the messages they share endure as key decisions are made.
Can you catch a hidden virus from a dog kiss or a cat cuddle?
What's the risk of contracting a virus from your Fido or Kitty? It's not a frivolous question, as one cat-owning virologist explains. And there's another question: Can you give a virus to your pet?
The promise and possibility of a four-day workweek
A recent pilot program in the U.K. tested out reduced hours for employees and they found positive results across the board for both workers and employers. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with three experts about the possibility and promise of a four-day workweek.
Minn. U.S. attorney charges 10 more people in Feeding Our Future case
Last fall, the U.S. Attorney's office charged 50 people allegedly tied to the nonprofit Feeding Our Future with using phony documents and shell companies to steal funds meant for children in need.
Colder then warmer, watching a late week storm system
Below normal temperatures to start the week with a midweek warm up. We’re watching a developing late week storm that will bring rain and snow late Thursday into Friday to Minnesota.
Grant was the Vikings' head coach from 1967-1983 and in 1985. Grant took the Vikings to four Superbowls in eight years. This is an MPR News morning update, hosted by Tom Crann. Music by Gary Meister.
Chillier Monday then warming up with a late week storm
We start the week chillier behind the weekend storm system. Highs will be in the 20s to low 30s Monday, more than 10 degrees below normal for some. We have a midweek warm up then a potential big storm Thursday into Friday.
Roundabout row: MnDOT's plan for London Road in Duluth riles residents
State transportation officials are moving ahead with a plan to remake a stretch of London Road in Duluth — the gateway to the North Shore — despite many residents’ objections to one of three proposed roundabouts.
Climate is changing too quickly for the Sierra Nevada's 'zombie forests'
One in five Sierra Nevada conifers are no longer compatible with the environmental conditions around them, raising questions about how to manage the land. Researchers say it may get worse.
 Tax cuts likely in Minnesota session but who benefits still unknown
A massive budget surplus and pledges made during the fall campaign make tax cuts a near-certainty as the Legislature sets a new budget. But the type of relief is still up in the air, with some Minnesotans facing potential tax increases, too.
A waterlogged California is bracing for yet another atmospheric river
Another atmospheric river set to arrive Monday could worsen already severe flooding, as the extra rain and snowmelt threaten to overflow rivers and streams at lower elevations.