Stories from April 17, 2023

Huge law enforcement escort takes fallen deputy home
The town of Glenwood, Minn., lined the streets to welcome home fallen sheriff’s deputy Josh Owen. He died Saturday night after being shot while responding to a domestic violence call.
MNspin makes Minnesota music widely available through the power of the library
Move over bookworms, the library is the new music scene in Hennepin County. Through MNspin, an ongoing collection of music from the Hennepin County Library, patrons can enjoy Minnesota-made tunes.
Flooding concerns are growing with rising rivers across the region, from La Crescent to the Boundary Waters, and a slain Pope County deputy’s body was returned to western Minnesota today, days after he was shot and killed during an arrest attempt in the small town of Cyrus. This is an evening update from MPR News, hosted by Tim Nelson. Music by Gary Meister.
U of M Board of Regents chair steps down, citing 'continuity of leadership'
University of Minnesota Regent Ken Powell announced today he is stepping down as chair of the university’s governing board “to support continuity of leadership” of the 12-member board, which is tasked with replacing outgoing President Joan Gabel.
Minnesota House tax plan seeks billions in cuts, also increases
One-time rebates, more Social Security income shielded from state taxes and additional relief to offset rising property taxes are features of a House plan.
Above average air temps and high winds signals spring season
Minnesota weather usually fluctuates widely when moving into spring. And with the possibility snowfall occurring only a couple of days after 80-degree-weather, one MPR News listener wanted to know what is the likelihood of seeing snowfall again in May.
Killing of officer raises mental health and gun violence concerns
On Monday morning, there was a somber procession of law enforcement vehicles that escorted the body of Pope County sheriff’s deputy, Joshua Owen, from the Twin Cities, where an autopsy took place, to Glenwood Minn., the seat of Pope County.
What are Stellate Ganglion Blocks? A look inside the treatment that has helped long COVID-19 patients
A growing number of providers around the country are using injections from the world of pain treatment to help long COVID patients regain taste and smell.
Medical storytelling brings the human side of health care to the stage
A group based at the University of Minnesota is teaming up with a popular podcast to bring the human side of health care to the stage. Seven health care professionals will share their stories at a live event in Minneapolis on April 22.
Duluth poet Sheila Packa shares her favorite poetry
April is National Poetry Month and Minnesota Now has been connecting with poets around the state about their inspiration, past and present.
How to keep your information safe in wake of school cybersecurity attacks
Learn everything you need to know about school cybersecurity attacks, what to do if your information has been compromised and how to keep your digital information safe.
Scientist explains cause of urban sinkholes in the Twin Cities
Vehicles across Minnesota have already experienced the plight brought on by potholes that overrun the roads but residents in Uptown Minneapolis faced a different crater.
Chauvin murder conviction upheld in George Floyd killing
Minnesota's Court of Appeals has upheld Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin's second-degree murder conviction for the May 2020 killing of George Floyd.
Pivotal week as flood levels rise on major Minnesota rivers
Rivers around the region are about to edge into major flood levels, with some of the most serious flooding in years around Minnesota.
Minnesota settles case against e-cigarette maker Juul
Minnesota announced a settlement Monday in its lawsuit against Juul Labs and tobacco giant Altria — the first of thousands of cases against the e-cigarette maker to reach trial — just ahead of closing arguments.
Windy, bright Monday; snow lingers northeast; next storm arrives Wednesday
Snow continues in Lake and Cook counties in northeastern Minnesota Monday. Most of southern and western Minnesota will see sun. Gusty northwest winds will blow at 15-30 mph. Rain develops Wednesday, part of a large storm system.
Major flooding is expected around the state, and more precipitation is in the forecast. This is an MPR News morning update, hosted by Cathy Wurzer. Music by Gary Meister.
Windy, snow showers northeast Monday; more rain, snow Wednesday
Scattered snow showers will continue in northeast Minnesota Monday. Sunshine will break out across western and southern Minnesota Monday with gusty northwest winds. Highs will range from the upper 30s to low 50s.
Murray leads Nuggets past Wolves 109-80 in NBA playoffs
Jamal Murray scored 24 points and the top-seeded Denver Nuggets routed the Minnesota Timberwolves 109-80 in the opener of their playoff series Sunday night.
Knight scores 3 in USA hockey gold-medal 6-3 win over Canada
Hilary Knight scored three times, including the go-ahead goal with 3:10 left in regulation, and the Americans won their 10th women’s world hockey championships gold medal and first in four years with a 6-3 win over cross-border rival Canada. 
Cole tosses 2-hitter with 10 Ks as Yanks blank Twins 2-0
Gerrit Cole pitched a two-hitter with 10 strikeouts for his fourth career shutout and the second complete game in the majors this season, leading the New York Yankees to a 2-0 victory over the Minnesota Twins.
Supreme Court looks at whether Medicare and Medicaid were overbilled under fraud law
Arguments on Tuesday center on a powerful tool for fighting fraud in government contracts and programs. The case examines whether major pharmacies knowingly overcharged Medicare and Medicaid.