Dec. 20, 2021

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has reaffirmed a key permit for the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine.

Several environmental and tribal groups had challenged the permit. They argued that state regulators failed to consider information suggesting that PolyMet planned to build a much larger mine that would emit more pollution than the air permit covered. But the MPCA says if the PolyMet Corporation does decide to expand, it would need to go through a new permitting process.

PolyMet still needs additional government permission before building its billion-dollar project, which has been tied up due to ongoing litigation.

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Kimberly Potter trial: Case goes to jury as closing arguments end

Jurors have begun to deliberate the manslaughter charges against Potter in the traffic stop killing of Daunte Wright. In closing arguments Monday, prosecutors assailed Potter’s conduct, while her defense said Wright’s actions caused his own death.

Tracking plowable snow Tuesday for the northern half of Minnesota

Tuesday’s weather system will bring plowable snow to about the northern half of Minnesota. With temperatures in the teens and 20s, slick roads will be an issue.

St. Cloud looks to curb spike in violent crime

The central Minnesota city has had 19 shootings in 2021 — more than double last year. Three of them were fatal. St. Cloud is addressing the surge by hiring more police officers and expanding a program that responds to mental health-related calls.

3 novels from 2021 you don't want to miss

These 2021 titles are 2022 must-reads, recommended by Kerri Miller, who calls the year a "banner year for great fiction."

A guide to winter stargazing

Stars, planets and northern lights! Astronomy experts share what sights will be shining overhead this winter and give a few tips for the best ways to see them.

Schools embrace social and emotional learning to help 'overwhelmed' students

School officials believe that kids can't succeed academically if they are struggling emotionally. A district in rural southwest Michigan has launched an educational program based on a key component of modern psychology — cognitive behavior therapy.

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COVID is again raging across the U.S. just as Americans gather for the holidays

Sporting events and live theater announced cancellations amid major increases in new coronavirus cases, in large part because of the omicron variant.

Moderna says its COVID booster increases protection against omicron

Moderna said its current FDA-approved 50-microgram booster shot increased antibody levels against omicron 37-fold compared to pre-booster levels.

Don't let omicron crash your holiday gathering. Here's how to keep your family safe

We're in a much different place than we were last winter. Even if they can't stop all infections, scientists have found that COVID vaccines still offer protection against severe disease. But health experts say it’s still a good idea to take steps to reduce your risk.

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