Stories from March 14, 2023

A section of roof at Duluth's largest mall caved in this morning, amidst one of the snowiest winters on record in the city. This is an MPR News evening update, hosted by Peter Cox. Music by Gary Meister.
The city of St. Paul opens Rondo Inheritance Fund
The Rondo neighborhood of St. Paul, once a lively and vibrant epicenter, was divided into two by the construction of I-94 in the 1950s. Hundreds lost their homes and were displaced. Decades later, the city of St. Paul is looking to make amends.
Legislature primed to serve up lunch money for Minnesota students
A nearly $400 million plan to cover daily breakfast and lunch for Minnesota students cleared the state Senate. A slightly different House version has already passed, meaning one more vote is needed to put the bill on the governor’s desk.
How did Minnesota's caves get here? Geologist Jim Cotter has the dirt
Do you like to explore caves? Then you probably have your favorite Minnesota destination, like the Wabasha Street Caves in St. Paul, Niagara Cave in Harmony, or the Stillwater Caves. Maybe you’ve even wondered what’s so mysterious about Mystery Cave in Forestville State Park.
New 'Early Risers' podcast season explores conversations about race with children
After George Floyd was killed by police nearly three years ago, there was a call to wake up to racism and inequity. Dianne Haulcy works in early childhood education and at the time she decided to start a project focused on how we talk with very young children about race and racism.
President Biden says Jimmy Carter asked him to give his eulogy
The president made the remarks to attendees at a fundraiser in California, after which he added, "Excuse me, I shouldn't say that." Carter, 98, has been in hospice care since last month.
How to file your tax returns: 6 things you should know this year
For something that's legally required, taxes can be confusing. This guide explains when and how to hire a tax preparer, covers the latest credits and deductions — and helps you plan ahead for next year.
From the archives: Ross Gay on 'Inciting Joy'
This Friday, on Big Books and Bold Idea, host Kerri Miller talks with psychologist and researcher Dacher Keltner about the science of awe, and how this universal emotion can transform our brains and bodies. So we felt it fitting to bring you a discussion of joy for this week’s archive. Enjoy poet Ross Gay at Talking Volumes last fall discussing his book, “Inciting Joy.”
A closer look at the long struggle over the East Phillips Rooftop Depot site
For years, community activists and the Minneapolis City Council have negotiated and battled in court over conflicting plans for a plot of land in the East Phillips neighborhood. The conflict has escalated recently, with city council members attempting to draw new lines around acceptable conduct and protesters saying their families’ wellbeing is at stake.
The number of documented hate crimes has been climbing across the country in recent years, but decreased in Minnesota last year. Supporters of a new bill in the state legislature say these crimes are underreported.
‘This is an emergency’: Public transit riders talk sustainability, social issues
Public transit in the Twin Cities has fewer riders but more drug use, weapons complaints and uncivil behavior. MPR News Host Angela Davis talked with transit leaders, including the new Metro Transit Police Chief Ernest Morales III, about how to restore safety and rebuild the system.
'Historic moment': EPA to limit toxic 'forever chemical' PFAS in drinking water
This would be the first federal limit on harmful substances in drinking water, saying it could prevent thousands of illnesses. It would limiting two common types of the compounds to four parts per trillion, the lowest level that tests can detect.
Authorities respond to roof collapse at Duluth's Miller Hill Mall
There were no reports of injuries in the collapse that was reported at about 9 a.m. Photos from the scene showed parts of the roof — and a large pile of snow — collapsed into an interior atrium in the mall.
Warming up after Tuesday; uncertainties with Thursday-Friday storm
It’ll be another cooler than normal Tuesday but a few degrees warmer for most in the upper 20s to mid 30s. We’ll have more sunshine also. Wednesday will be warmer ahead of a storm system that brings rain and snow to the region Thursday.
Minneapolis city officials outline plans to address awful pothole season
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey says city crews will be working additional overtime and weekend hours to address what's been a terrible season for potholes in the region.
Over the last six years, Mille Lacs County has spent more than $8 million in attorney’s fees on challenging the boundaries of the Mille Lacs Reservation. Some lawmakers think the state should reimburse the county for its legal costs. This is an MPR News morning update, hosted by Tom Crann. Music by Gary Meister.
In Florida, an invasive snail is helping save an endangered bird
The population of an endangered bird, the Everglade snail kite, has rebounded recently. Scientists it's all thanks to an invasive snail that has provided kites with a new abundant food source.
Despite mounting legal costs, Mille Lacs County plans to appeal ruling in tribal case
Over the last six years, Mille Lacs County has spent more than $8 million in attorney’s fees on challenging the boundaries of the Mille Lacs Reservation. Some lawmakers think the state should reimburse the county for its legal costs.