Stories from September 1, 2023

Record heat is likely in southern and central Minnesota this weekend, but it will be much drier than last week's heat wave. And the Minnesota Department of Health is centralizing COVID-19 testing in wastewater systems.  Those stories and more, in today’s MPR News evening update. Hosted by Hannah Yang. Music by Gary Meister.
Health data roundup: COVID's creep continues; a deep dive into diabetes rates
Recent COVID-19 increases have, in part, been detected through wastewater monitoring. Friday the state announced that the Metropolitan Council is stepping back from reporting on reporting pathogens detected in wastewater at the Metro wastewater treatment facility.
In her new cookbook, Amy Thielen argues hosting should be more party than performance
Minnesota author and chef Amy Thielen is out with her third book, which she refers to as her “so-called entertaining book.” In it, she encourages hosts to drop the Martha Stewart act and reframe entertaining as the “radically casual art of cooking for others.”
How to protect your ears and avoid hearing loss: An illustrated guide
Go easy on the Q-tips. Watch your phone volume. And if you’re experiencing hearing issues like muffled sounds or tinnitus, see a professional. This comic offers advice on how to care for your ears.
A Proud Boy pleaded for leniency from a judge, then yelled 'Trump won' on his way out
In his plea for leniency to the court, Dominic Pezzola said he had given up politics, yet as he was being escorted out of the courtroom he shouted, “Trump won!” He had been given a 10-year sentence.
Infrequently Asked Questions: What happens to the animals after the fair?
This question is probably infrequently asked because the answer is, in part, a bit morbid. But the Minnesota State Fair is, at its heart, an agricultural exhibition and animals are a big part of that.
Weekend weather: Very hot; record high temps possible
We’re expecting a very hot Labor Day weekend. We have temperature details plus a look at rain chances.
New general managers Darwitz and Sauvageau head list of Pro Women’s Hockey League’s six leaders
Retired U.S. national team captain Natalie Darwitz and former Team Canada coach Daniele Sauvageau head a list of four women and two men named general managers of the newly established Professional Women’s Hockey League’s original six franchises on Friday.
Breakfast at the Minnesota State Fair: All-you-can-drink milk
Cooler temperatures and tamer crowds draw out early bird fairgoers. Morning Edition is finding out what they’re having for breakfast at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. Producer Gracie Stockton has an audio postcard from the All You Can Drink Milk stand.
Hot, dry and windy Friday; record weekend temperatures likely
Hot, dry weather is on tap through the Labor Day weekend. Gusty winds, low humidity and dry vegetation will increase the wildfire risk.
Minnesota may be headed for one of the hottest days ever recorded during the run of the State Fair. An Albert Lea health care clinic which the community recently fought to attract, is closing at the end of the year. This is an MPR News morning update, hosted by Cathy Wurzer. Music by Gary Meister.
Hot, dry and windy Friday; toasty weekend ahead
Hot, dry weather for is on tap for the next several days. Gusty winds and low humidities will increase the wildfire risk.
No condiment: Pickles are everywhere at the State Fair  
The State Fair boasts new food items with a sour-salty taste, like ice cream and cheese curds. And the traditional pickle items are back, too.
Capitol area facelift looms with remodeling, demolition in store
The epicenter of Minnesota state government is in for a makeover. In coming years, the State Office Building will be remodeled and expanded while two other buildings in the State Capitol neighborhood could meet the wrecking ball.