Objects in Mirror: April 4, 2008 Archive

Reactions to the malt liquor study

Posted at 6:50 AM on April 4, 2008 by Julia Schrenkler

One University of Minnesota study says malt liquor could be factor in higher murder rates. According to MPR's feature,

[Principle investigator Rhonda Jones-Webb] said malt beverages are associated with heavier drinking and aggressive behavior. She says that could contribute to higher homicide rates in African American communities.

That seems like something to talk about, so I opened an online discussion. Here are some replies to the question, is malt liquor a factor in higher murder rates?:

"I think what factors in is WHO tends to drink malt liquers. now...wouldn't that be kind of like profiling?" - anna g. vanwinkle

"Use of alcohol or drugs leads to higher murder rates and other crimes in ANY community." - Jim G.

"...To me, consumption of alcohol leads to bad choices, one of them being to pull the trigger." - Susan Budig

Recap of the Splendid Table live event

Posted at 11:35 AM on April 4, 2008 by Julia Schrenkler

If you couldn't attend the show, Barbara D. from Gather.com recapped last night's Splendid Table event. She opened with the heart of the matter:

Tonight, the show celebrated 13 years on the air and the publication of Lynne's new book, "How to Eat Supper" with a look back over the years and favorite features of the show at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul.

Read her full recap to discover more about the guests (like Jane and Michael Stern) and about the evening itself.

Public Insight Journalism: Can we talk about politics?

Posted at 3:20 PM on April 4, 2008 by Julia Schrenkler

MPR's Public Insight Journalism analysts want to hear,

"...how you bridge the political divide on a personal level. Are you friends with people who have different political views than you do? And how do you make your relationship work?"

We all know - and perhaps love - people who have one deep, unmovable political difference from us. How does that work for you? Is the subject off limits, or is there an understanding that any related discussions will go nowhere? Do you perhaps even have a pleasant friction with the person, and enjoy the challenging interaction?

Share your experiences with MPR and become part of our Public Insight Network.