Stories from January 29, 2024

Annual Pioneer Press treasure hunt turns controversial when medallion is found on Dakota sacred site
Wakaŋ Tipi is a sacred gathering place for the Dakota people, where ceremonies and storytelling traditions not shared outside the community have been taking place for centuries.
Second Harvest Heartland announces goal to cut state hunger in half by 2030
Second Harvest Heartland says food shelf visits reached a record high, going from 3.5 million in 2021 to 7.5 million in 2023. The “Make Hunger History” initiative aims to identify which communities are facing the greatest needs. 
The man who admitted stealing a pair of ruby red slippers worn during "The Wizard of Oz" will not go to prison. And the annual Saint Paul Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt medallion was found over the weekend, but some community members have called into question the decision to hide it at a culturally important Native American site.
What to know about UNRWA and allegations its workers took part in Oct. 7
For over 70 years, the U.N. agency has provided relief to Palestinian refugees in Gaza. Now, it’s under scrutiny after 12 employees are alleged to have taken part in Hamas’ attacks in Israel.
Man who stole ‘Wizard of Oz’ ruby slippers avoids prison time
A federal judge told the man who stole a pair of the iconic ruby red slippers slippers worn in the classic film “The Wizard of Oz” that his crime was “extraordinary in its stupidity, selfishness and impact,” yet he did not sentence him to any prison time because the thief is terminally ill.
Gunflint Mail Run called off due to warm weather
Organizers of the annual Gunflint Mail Run sled dog race in Cook County announced Monday they have canceled this winter’s event. The race originally was set to take place in early January, then was postponed until Feb. 10.
A how-to guide to networking
No one wants to be known as a schmoozer. But building a network in your industry and your community is essential. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two experts in the field.
Princess of Wales is discharged from London hospital after abdominal surgery
The 42-year-old princess, formerly Kate Middleton, underwent planned abdominal surgery on Jan. 16 for an undisclosed condition will be recuperating with her family until after Easter. 
A Minnesota State Patrol trooper charged with murder and manslaughter for a fatal shooting during a traffic stop last year makes his first court appearance Monday. And sentencing for the man who admits to stealing a pair of ruby slippers used in the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz" is set for today in Duluth. 
Failed 4th downs contribute to blown lead for Lions in NFC title game loss to 49ers
Detroit failed on two fourth-down tries in field-goal range in the second half, contributing to a blown 17-point halftime lead and a 34-31 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC championship game.
The IRS is piloting new software that could let you file your taxes for free
Direct File will be open only to people with certain tax situations living in certain states at the outset. The free service has been criticized by Republicans and tax preparation companies.
Trooper charged with murder of Ricky Cobb II makes first court appearance
A Minnesota State Patrol trooper charged with murder and manslaughter for a fatal shooting during a traffic stop last year made his first appearance in Hennepin County District Court Monday afternoon.
Fine-free libraries: St. Paul reflects after five years, Dakota County joins growing movement
Libraries across the country have been dropping late fines in a push for accessibility. St. Paul Public Library reflects on the change five years after eliminating fines, and after another Minnesota library system has joined the trend.
Biden vows to respond after 3 U.S. troops were killed and 34 wounded in a drone attack
A coalition of militias backed by Iran claimed credit for the attack on a base in Jordan. It comes amid the conflict in the Middle East that the U.S. has been working to keep from spreading.
Mahomes, Kelce are headed back to the Super Bowl after Chiefs shut down Ravens 17-10
Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were at their magnificent best in the first half, and Kansas City’s defense delivered another masterpiece against Lamar Jackson and Baltimore, helping the Chiefs reach the Super Bowl for the fourth time in five years with a 17-10 victory in the AFC championship game.