Stories from August 4, 2023

A store in Mahnomen, Minn., that was allegedly selling cannabis illegally was shut down on Wednesday, according to the White Earth Nation.
Unsettled weekend weather; coolest temps on Sunday
Many areas will see rain at times this weekend, but we’ll have some dry stretches too. We take a look at the rainfall timing plus temperature trends.
The case for a soft landing in the economy just got another boost
U.S. employers added 187,000 jobs in July, a slower but still solid pace of growth, suggesting the Federal Reserve may be able to curb inflation without triggering a recession.
Court of appeals upholds Thao's federal civil rights conviction
The Eight Circuit found no evidence that former Minneapolis police officer Tou Thao was deprived of a fair trial, and in a ruling filed Friday affirmed his conviction on federal civil rights charges. 
A federal appeals court has upheld the conviction of former Minneapolis police officer Tou Thao for his role in the killing of George Floyd. This is an MPR News evening update for Friday, August 4. Hosted by Hannah Yang. Music by Gary Meister.
Minnesota health data: Opioid impacts remain high, COVID-19 levels remain low
Amid recent reports concerning increases in COVID-19 activity, we take a closer look at wastewater monitoring. We also look at some existing data related to the ongoing negative impact of opioid addiction.
Proposed Minnesota high-voltage 180-mile power line could cost $1B
Utilities say the new transmission lines are needed to help maintain a reliable power grid, as existing coal plants are retired and more solar and wind energy is brought online.
The Ring Nebula comes into focus, and it's astounding
Thanks to the James Webb telescope, we can now see the nebula with more clarity. As one expert says, "We always knew planetary nebulae were pretty. What we see now is spectacular."
Russian opposition activist Navalny is sentenced to 19 more years in prison
The Russian activist, a fierce opponent of President Vladimir Putin, was sentenced Friday on extremism charges, which he denies. He is already serving prison sentences on other charges he denies.
Long-time Jane Doe in Gilgo Beach serial killings is identified
Karen Vergata was one of four people who were left unidentified for years after their remains were found. The development comes three weeks after a suspect in a string of killings was arrested.
Roller coaster riders rescued from 205-foot drop amid mechanical issues
The Magnum XL-200 at Ohio’s Cedar Point amusement park promises high speeds and fast turns. Thrill-seekers got a little extra excitement when the ride stopped at the top of its signature plunge.
Arts Briefs: Festivals!
In this week’s Arts Briefs: a new riverfront music venue, the Fringe Festival and more. Also, in Absolute Bleeding Edge is a prolific producer of noise.
Very warm Friday; weekend rain develops
Friday will be another very warm day south with highs near 90 for some but less humid than the last couple of days. Rain and storms develop west to east Saturday into Sunday.
North Dakota lawmakers eye Minnesota free tuition program that threatens enrollment
North Dakota lawmakers and higher education leaders are beginning to chart a path for how to respond to neighboring Minnesota's upcoming program that will offer income-based free tuition to thousands of students next year.
Audio Postcard: Fishing for flowers on the Mississippi
Today’s postcard comes from Kelly Povo and Phyllis Root who hiked Frontenac State Park to get a look at the American lotus.
On Thursday the White Earth Nation added recreational cannabis to the products available at the tribal dispensary which it just opened on Monday. State officials have released new details on the fatal shooting of a Black motorist by a Minnesota State trooper earlier this week. This is an MPR News morning update, hosted by Cathy Wurzer. Music by Gary Meister.
Raising money and poll numbers, Donald Trump stays 'Teflon Don' amid indictments
In 2016, then-candidate Donald Trump claimed he could shoot someone and not lose any voters. Now, he faces criminal charges in three separate indictments, and voters continue to support "Teflon Don."
People who were adopted, birth parents react to change in Minnesota birth records policy
A few sentences tucked into a massive bill that passed the Minnesota Legislature last session are poised to give people who were born in the state, and then adopted, a new way to find their birth parents. In some cases, it could end decades of speculation and separation.
Minnesota’s 1st THC restaurant serves hemp tinctures, vegan food in Minneapolis
Chef Heather Klein provides an alternative to alcohol with Hi Flora! in Uptown Minneapolis, a new vegan, plant-based restaurant where customers can mix THC into their own food and drinks.