Minnesota Public Radio Stories

• Ethanol: the next generation
  The recently passed farm bill offers incentives for those who produce what's likely to be the next generation of ethanol.5:21 p.m.
• Larch beetle attacks northern forests
  Thousands of acres of tamarack trees are dying off in northern Minnesota. The trees are under attack from a small, native insect.5:25 p.m.
• Theater veterans reconsider 'The Gin Game'
  This weekend, two stage veterans who have worked together on and off since the early 1960s will present their latest collaboration. Wendy Lehr and Bain Boehlke will perform "The Gin Game" at the Jungle Theater in Minneapolis.5:51 p.m.

National Public Radio Stories

• Eye on Safety as Formaldehyde Use Increases
  Formaldehyde isn't just for embalming anymore. It's used in hundreds of household products. But as its use has increased, so has concern about its safety.
• N.Y. Gov. Says Married Gay Couples Deserve Rights
  The legal counsel for New York Gov. David Paterson recently issued a directive ordering state agencies to recognize gay couples who have been legally married in other states or abroad. Paterson says it's a constitutional federal right for same-sex couples — and it may boost the marriage success rate.
• A New Label For Music's New Blood
  With classical music sales waning, it's harder than ever for progressive young composers and performers to get noticed. But the independent New Amsterdam label is documenting the eclectic musical community around its classically trained 20-something founders.
• Air Travel Forecast: Expensive, Partly Crowded
  The friendly skies are likely to get more crowded and expensive in the months to come, as airlines struggle with sky-high fuel bills. Industry observers say unless oil prices drop sharply, more airlines will have to ground flights and raise ticket prices.
• Gas Prices Stir Plenty of Talk at the Pumps
  As gas prices hit $4 a gallon in many cities across America, they're the chief topic of conversation at most gas stations. A popular question: "How much did it cost YOU to fill 'er up?"
• A Crisis for a Georgia School District
  For the second time in five years, the school district in Georgia's Clayton County is on probation. The district faces a loss of accreditation that could mean next year's seniors will find trouble getting into college.
• DNC Panel Member on Fla., Mich. Delegates
  At the Democratic National Committee's rules and bylaws committee meeting Saturday, the chief topic of discussion will be what to do about the delegates from Florida and Michigan. Panel member Jerome Wiley Segovia discusses the issue.
• Utah Phillips: A 'Golden' Voice for Labor
  Utah Phillips — folksinger, storyteller and labor organizer — dubbed himself the "Golden Voice of the Great Southwest." He died last week at the age of 73.
• FEMA Trailer Supplier Reacts to Health Threat
  At the Ohio factory that made "Emergency Living Units" for Hurricane Katrina survivors, workers and company officials talk about dealing with formaldehyde. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention want all residents of FEMA-issued trailers to move out, citing fear of toxic fumes.
• Space Toilet Awaits Repair Mission
  The crew of the international space station is struggling with a broken toilet on the eve of a visit from the space shuttle. But the seven-person shuttle crew will bring spare parts and the promise of repairs.

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