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Questions or requests? Contact MPR News editor Michael Olson at molson@mpr.org.

An overview of Minnesota’s cannabis industry in 2024 and what to expect in 2025
Ahead of the new year and the start of another legislative session, MPR News reporters Dana Ferguson, Hannah Yang and Melissa Olson joined Morning Edition host Cathy Wurzer with updates on the budding enterprise.
Here are 14 Minnesota stories and videos that made us smile in 2024
2024 was filled with with ups and downs. But for this end-of-year roundup, we’re focused on the heart-warming, feel-good news that made us smile. From felines being reunited with their families to a rare and stinky flower with thousands of fans, here are some of the stories that lifted our spirits this year.
Duluth police recover most Mankato West hockey sticks
The Mankato West boy's team had their hockey sticks stolen from the team’s bus while players and coaches were sleeping, causing the Saturday night Hockey Classic tournament game in Duluth against Anoka to be postponed.
Packers fans defeat Minnesota Vikings fans at tug-of-war contest in Stillwater
Business owners in Stillwater and Hudson, Wis., organized the friendly competition ahead of the NFL game between the Vikings and Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Wisconsin side won 3-2 over Minnesota.
2024 in focus: Favorite photos of the year from MPR News’ lens
From politics to playoff dreams, unseasonable winters to moments of quiet resilience, the MPR News photo team did what they do best: follow their curiosity, chase stories and bring you along for the ride, one frame at a time.
A new book traces the history of ballet in Minnesota
A new book on Minnesota ballet traces its history from the 1800 and 1900s to today in an art form founded by immigrants and funded by corporate donors. 
Fresh air and snowy sights to kick off the New Year
Looking for a special way to kick off the new year? People across the country are hitting trails in state parks on Jan. 1 with an initiative called “First Day Hikes.” Here’s where guided hikes are hosted in Minnesota.
St. Francis school board gets pushback on controversial book buying plan
Board members in the district north of the Twin Cities are under pressure to rethink their plan to use a conservative website to help choose books to buy for school libraries. Their superintendent warns it would violate state law. The school board chair says the ACLU may intervene.