All Things Considered for September 7, 2010 | Minnesota Public Radio News

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Minnesota Public Radio Stories

Classes start for 'turnaround schools'
Today was the first day of school in most districts across Minnesota. For 30 schools that were identified earlier this year as the state's worst performers, it also marks the start of a three-year effort aimed at turning themselves around.4:50 p.m.
Wadena students head to temporary classrooms
Students in Wadena, Minn., were back in school today for the first time since a tornado destroyed the town's high school back in June. They're now splitting their time between an elementary school and classroom space offered by the local community and technical college.4:54 p.m.
Pawlenty to take $260M in federal Medicaid cash
Gov. Tim Pawlenty has decided to accept about $260 million in federal health care money, because it comes from a program separate from the one he strongly opposes.5:20 p.m.
Candidates for governor compare budget plans at Duluth debate
The three candidates for governor debated tax policy, job creation and business permits at a debate in Duluth Tuesday morning.5:24 p.m.
West Bank era ends as Bedlam Theatre relocates
An era in the West Bank of Minneapolis is coming to a close. The Bedlam Theatre, known for its experimental and renegade work, vacated its current building at its landlord's request to make way for a mosque.5:50 p.m.
Denny Hecker pleads guilty to fraud charges
Denny Hecker, the fallen Twin Cities auto mogul, has pleaded guilty to two fraud charges in a plea deal that could get him a maximum of 10 years in prison. Prosecutors say Hecker's fraud cost his lenders more than $20 million in losses, and that the purpose of the scheme was to support his lavish lifestyle.5:54 p.m.

National Public Radio Stories

Renew The Tax Cuts: Good Politics, Bad Economics?
There's a way to dramatically cut the deficit -- by simply letting the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts expire. But President Obama has vowed not to raise taxes on most Americans, a pledge that would add billions to the deficit every year. And, fiscal watchdogs note, the "Bush tax cuts" would then become Obama's.
Green Building: A Real Estate Revolution?
Green building now accounts for close to one-third of new U.S. construction. That's up from 2 percent in 2005, according to McGraw-Hill Construction, which tracks the industry. The U.S. Green Building Council, and its LEED rating system, have changed construction practice -- and policy -- around the country.
Obama On Government: Results Bigger Than Size
President Obama wants to shift the political debate away from big versus small government and toward a discussion of whether or not the government works. Proving effectiveness requires more transparency, and the administration has used online tools to do that, but many Americans still await results.
Gadhafi's Visit Raises Ire Over Libya's Role In Italy
Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi's visit to Italy last week has stirred controversy. His remarks on Islam angered church officials, while Italian politicians worry about Libya's growing clout in the Italian economy, as well as its human-rights violations.
A German 'Soul Kitchen' That's More Than A Restaurant
The Turkish-German filmmaker Fatih Akin is a star of European cinema, known for gritty dramas about the immigrant experience in Germany. But his newest movie is a somewhat lighter film, filled with greasy food and heavy music.
Scientists: Bacteria Consuming BP Oil
Government scientists say they are seeing a zone in the Gulf of Mexico that has below-normal levels of oxygen. That indicates bacteria in the area are consuming some of the oil that spewed from BP's well.
Marine Scientists Seek Standards For Spill Research
Much of the scientific effort that has followed the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has focused on how much oil escaped and where it's gone. But many biologists say they're puzzled by the lack of an organized research effort to measure the damage.
Pastor To Proceed With Koran Burning
A pastor in Gainesville, Fla., says he will not back off plans to burn Korans on Saturday to commemorate the anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The top commander in Afghanistan, Gen. David Petraeus, says the church's plans could put the lives of Americans at risk and hurt the war effort.
Chicago Mayor Daley Won't Seek Re-Election
After more than 20 years in office, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley says he's not running for re-election. If Daley finishes his current term, he will have held the post longer than even his father, Richard J. Daley, who died in office after serving 21 years.
GOP Operative On Homeless Greens Campaign
A few political newcomers running for statewide office in Arizona are raising some eyebrows. That's because the candidates, running as members of the Green Party, are homeless. Republican political operative Steve May helped sign up some of the candidates, and Democrats are crying foul. He discusses the candidates and why he wants them running for office.