Stories from January 29, 2024

Second Harvest Heartland announces goal to cut state hunger in half by 2030
Second Harvest Heartland says food shelf visits reached a record high, going from 3.5 million in 2021 to 7.5 million in 2023. The “Make Hunger History” initiative aims to identify which communities are facing the greatest needs. 
The man who admitted stealing a pair of ruby red slippers worn during "The Wizard of Oz" will not go to prison. And the annual Saint Paul Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt medallion was found over the weekend, but some community members have called into question the decision to hide it at a culturally important Native American site.
Cloquet police: Motive still not known in fatal motel shooting
Cloquet police say they still haven’t established a clear motive for the shooting at a motel that left three people dead in that city earlier this month.
What to know about UNRWA and allegations its workers took part in Oct. 7
For over 70 years, the U.N. agency has provided relief to Palestinian refugees in Gaza. Now, it’s under scrutiny after 12 employees are alleged to have taken part in Hamas’ attacks in Israel.
Catholic school kids gather for Mass at Xcel Energy Center
It was the third-ever Mass of the Holy Spirit hosted by the Catholic Schools Center of Excellence. The event brought students from 78 Catholic grade schools to the Mass.
Man who stole ‘Wizard of Oz’ ruby slippers avoids prison time
A federal judge told the man who stole a pair of the iconic ruby red slippers slippers worn in the classic film “The Wizard of Oz” that his crime was “extraordinary in its stupidity, selfishness and impact,” yet he did not sentence him to any prison time because the thief is terminally ill.
Vital Signs: Finding a medical home
Family physician Dr. Jon Hallberg will join Minnesota Now monthly to talk about topics that impact your health.
Gunflint Mail Run called off due to warm weather
Organizers of the annual Gunflint Mail Run sled dog race in Cook County announced Monday they have canceled this winter’s event. The race originally was set to take place in early January, then was postponed until Feb. 10.
A how-to guide to networking
No one wants to be known as a schmoozer. But building a network in your industry and your community is essential. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two experts in the field.
'Buffalo Fluffalo' has had enuffalo in this kids' bookalo
'Buffalo Fluffalo' may seem big and intimidating, but it's all puffery. He really just needs some snuggalos from his friends in this rhyming book from author Bess Kalb and illustrator Erin Kraan.
A Minnesota State Patrol trooper charged with murder and manslaughter for a fatal shooting during a traffic stop last year makes his first court appearance Monday. And sentencing for the man who admits to stealing a pair of ruby slippers used in the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz" is set for today in Duluth. 
Failed 4th downs contribute to blown lead for Lions in NFC title game loss to 49ers
Detroit failed on two fourth-down tries in field-goal range in the second half, contributing to a blown 17-point halftime lead and a 34-31 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC championship game.
Trooper charged with murder of Ricky Cobb II makes first court appearance
A Minnesota State Patrol trooper charged with murder and manslaughter for a fatal shooting during a traffic stop last year made his first appearance in Hennepin County District Court Monday afternoon.
Fine-free libraries: St. Paul reflects after five years, Dakota County joins growing movement
Libraries across the country have been dropping late fines in a push for accessibility. St. Paul Public Library reflects on the change five years after eliminating fines, and after another Minnesota library system has joined the trend.
The Kansas City Chiefs will play the San Francisco 49ers in the Super Bowl
It's the Chiefs' fourth trip to the big game in five seasons. The 49ers, who haven't won a Super Bowl since 1995, lost their last chance at the trophy in 2020 against the Chiefs.
Mahomes, Kelce are headed back to the Super Bowl after Chiefs shut down Ravens 17-10
Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were at their magnificent best in the first half, and Kansas City’s defense delivered another masterpiece against Lamar Jackson and Baltimore, helping the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years with a 17-10 victory in the AFC championship game.