Lifestyle

The world watches, roots for a young loon trapped in an icy Minnesota lake
For the past couple weeks, a young loon nicknamed “Gilligan" has been trapped in the ice in a lake near Nevis, Minn. The loon's plight has captured the attention of people around the world. It has also raised questions about just how much humans should intervene to save a single water bird.
Stargazing tips from a Dark Sky Festival organizer on the North Shore
Minnesota’s North Shore is home to one of only 15 certified International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in the world — and this weekend, it will host a festival celebrating the magic and importance of stargazing and dark skies. Caroline Torkildson, a dark sky advocate with Starry Skies North, the Duluth chapter of the International Dark-Sky Association, joined host Cathy Wurzer with more.
From grime to crumbling masonry, U.S. parks get a makeover
The Great American Outdoor Act was passed by Congress last year and dedicated up to $1.6 billion a year for the next five years to extensive maintenance and repairs that have been put off year after year.
Midtown Global Market celebrates its 15th anniversary — with a cookbook
The Midtown Global Market in Minneapolis is celebrating its 15th anniversary, and for the first time ever, the chefs and business owners who fill the bustling market are putting together a cookbook. Trung Pham, one of the original vendors at the market, joined host Cathy Wurzer to talk about his story and the story of the market.
Buying Minnesota-made for the holidays
How’s that holiday gift list coming along? Host Angela Davis helps you shop local for the holidays. Learn about Minnesota makers and retailers where you can find local goods for everyone on your list.  
Getting outdoors this winter 
The difference between enduring winter and enjoying winter might be as simple as finding an outdoor activity that makes you happy. Host Angela Davis talks about winter biking, snowshoeing, skiing and other ways to have fun in winter. 
Deer are catching the COVID-19 virus. What does that mean for humans?
Earlier this month, researchers announced that a stunning number of deer in Iowa had been found to be infected with the coronavirus. Jeff Bender, a veterinarian and public health expert, told host Cathy Wurzer more about the findings and what they mean for humans and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Homemade and heartfelt gifts cheer both giver and receiver
Do you bake or craft? MPR News guest host Stephanie Curtis talks to people who are making gifts for the holidays as a way to relieve pandemic stress and pass on joy from the heart.