MPR News Update

It sure doesn't feel like it right now, but 2014 is about to be the warmest year on record globally. Meanwhile, the deep freeze continues in Minnesota -- but a slight thaw is on the way, just in time for the weekend.
The New York Times' assertion that Minnesotans have a near love affair with "grape salad" continues to evoke entertaining responses. The banter centers on the Times' choice of said salad as THE dish that best represents Minnesota. Margaret Sullivan, the Times' version of an ombudsman, joined the criticism today with "A Recipe for Wrath (Grapes Optional) in Minnesota". Meanwhile, MPR News' Bob Collins offered praise to one Minnesota police department for its response to the controversy.
So, you might have heard about the New York Times' choice of "grape salad" as the recipe that best evokes Minnesota. Have a though about that? Weigh in here. And listen to Chef Amy Thielen and Dara Moskowitz Grumdahl's opinions on the dish.
Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges joins The Daily Circuit Friday to talk #pointergate. Catch up on the latest demonstration, what it means for the nonprofit involved, and what the fuss was all about in the first place. (And don't forget to catch Jon Stewart's take from last night's Daily Show.)
Catch up on your NewsCut reading tonight: John Doar, the 'one of us' who changed America ... The power of the incumbent Congress: So what? ... The nature of forgiveness (cont'd.)
Honor veterans today by listening to their voices, asking how they see themselves and understanding their stories.
Today's winter storm warning continues. Follow the snow as it moves through the state -- and get updates, road conditions, predictions and more -- on our live blog.