Objects in Mirror: January 2, 2009 Archive

You tell us: What were the most memorable stories of 2008?

Posted at 8:23 AM on January 2, 2009 by Julia Schrenkler

What were the most memorable stories of 2008? Every year the Minnesota Public Radio Newsroom shares their picks for the most memorable stories. 2008 yielded some interesting - and unexpected - features. But I'm interested in the stories you think defined 2008, and I'm even wondering about the stories that didn't get covered.

* Join our online discussion: What were the most memorable stories of 2008?
* Rather look forward? Tell us what you're focusing on for 2009

Should Minnesota regulate the use of lead bullets?

Posted at 2:17 PM on January 2, 2009 by Julia Schrenkler

From MPR News story, Lawmaker seeks to curtail hunters' use of lead bullets:

"A Minnesota lawmaker says she will introduce legislation to restrict the use of lead ammunition. Recent studies found lead bullet fragments in venison, and a number of eagles have died from lead poisoning. Some hunters are voluntarily giving up lead bullets. Others say the whole issue is being blown out of proportion."

As you can imagine, Minnesotans have a few opinions about that. A trio of commentaries reflect different aspects of the story. A few excerpts:

* Kevin Rein of Forest Lake ponders the politics. He opens, "This is just another politician jumping on the anti-hunter bandwagon. I am tired of watching our politicians trying to promote laws that they know little about."

* Chris Bremer from Edina thinks the choice shouldn't be left to individual hunters, but states the time is right to consider the change. Bremer notes, "While it seems like a no-brainer that we would want less lead in our environment, if additional research is truly needed, then let's use some of the new funds to do that research -- soon."

* Sarah Bertsch hails from Hudson, Wisc. She identifies herself as a volunteer at The Raptor Center, which provides medical care for birds. Bertsch writes about birds suffering from effects of lead poisoning and closes with the statement, "There is no pro-lead argument I've heard that even comes close to addressing the potential and existing suffering."

What is your perspective, or what can you tell us about this issue? Submit a commentary or help us cover this story.