Stories from December 23, 2024

How Chappell Roan's producer Dan Nigro crafts pop hits for a new generation
Working with artists like Chappell Roan and Olivia Rodrigo to distill their personalities and voices into distinctive and personal songs, Nigro has established himself as a producer adept at making pop hits for a new generation.
The Minnesota Department of Health is reporting over 40 outbreaks of norovirus so far this month. This is almost two times more than the usual number of outbreaks that occur in December. Addressing Medicaid fraud is the focus of a new position in the Minnesota Attorney General’s office, amid cases of alleged overbilling for substance abuse treatment service.
Critical DMs: Highland Park home revives Dayton’s holiday magic
A St. Paul homeowner has rescued and restored iconic Dayton’s holiday elves, creating a nostalgic display reminiscent of the department store’s beloved 8th-floor holiday show, enchanting visitors and preserving Minnesota tradition.
From Timberwolves to State Fair werewolves: Joe Mande’s comedy special makes many Minnesota connections
Joe Mande’s new Hulu comedy special, “Chill,” filmed at the Parkway Theater in Minneapolis in January 2024, humorously explores his Minnesota roots, including experiences with the Timberwolves, the State Fair and the vibrant local comedy scene.
Walmart illegally opened delivery drivers' deposit accounts, U.S. says
Lawsuit alleges Walmart and the payments platform Branch Messenger cost delivery drivers millions of dollars in fees, opening deposit accounts without consent and requiring their use to get paid.
Power Pair: ‘The Laundry Guy’ and the music critic
MPR News host Angela Davis revisits a conversation with Pioneer Press pop music critic Ross Raihala and his partner Patric Richardson, author of “Laundry Love” and “House Love.”
Inside the Gaetz ethics report, a trove of new details alleging payments for sex and drug use
The 37-page report by the bipartisan panel includes explicit details of sex-filled parties and vacations that Matt Gaetz took part in while representing Florida's western panhandle. The findings conclude that he violated multiple state laws related to sexual misconduct while in office.
About 21,000 public employees in Minnesota may soon be eligible to receive Social Security benefits. And NewRange Copper Nickel has wrapped up work on a $20 million salvage operation at its facility in northeastern Minnesota. 
Dusting of snow with light freezing drizzle possible; quiet holiday forecast
A light dusting of snow and freezing drizzle is possible early Monday as a clipper system moves through the state. Temperatures will stay mild throughout the holiday week with no significant travel disruptions anticipated.
Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to state murder and other charges in United Healthcare CEO’s death
The man accused of fatally shooting the CEO of UnitedHealthcare has pleaded not guilty to murder and terror charges in a state case that will run parallel to his federal prosecution.
Sam Darnold and Justin Jefferson lead surging Vikings past Seahawks 27-24
 Sam Darnold connected with a well-covered Justin Jefferson with 3:51 left for his third TD pass of the game, and the Minnesota Vikings outlasted Geno Smith and the Seattle Seahawks 27-24 to keep pace with Detroit for the top spot in the NFC.
Twenty years after first proposed, NewRange still vying to build Minnesota’s first copper mine
Nearly 20 years after it was first proposed to state and federal regulators, the project formerly known as PolyMet Mining — now NewRange Copper Nickel — soldiers on, despite environmental groups’ contention that the project in its current form is dead.
Nissan and Honda announce merger talks amid a rapidly changing global market
Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan have announced plans to work to a merger, forming the world's third-largest automaker by sales as the industry undergoes changes in its move from fossil fuels.
Blake Lively accuses 'It Ends With Us' studio of harassment and smear campaign
In a legal complaint, the actor says co-star Justin Baldoni and his team launched a smear campaign as a way to silence Lively's narrative about his and a producer's alleged repeated sexual harassment.