THUMBS DOWN

Fraud speculation makes day care crisis worse in Minnesota

The federal government is pausing federal funding for child care in Minnesota. This comes in the wake of YouTuber Nick Shirley posting a video in which he claims a dozen Minneapolis day cares were not really operating as day cares and fraudulently taking federal funds. Though the allegations have yet to be proven, it has resulted in the entire state losing federal funding for day care. Minnesota has long faced a day care shortage. There are not enough providers to meet the demand of parents. Even if this funding freeze is temporary, it could do even more damage to the state’s child care system. It is very disappointing that unverified allegations against a dozen day cares can shut down payments across the state.

THUMBS UP

Michaela Howk progressing a year after horrific accident

One year ago Maichaela Howk was critically injured after a hit-in-run accident on Jan. 1, 2025. Her recovery included physical therapy addressing pelvic instability, spinal injuries and bilateral knee injuries, as well as cognitive and emotional effects associated with traumatic brain injury. Her injuries required eight surgeries and months of inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation. Following discharge, Howk required extensive rehabilitation and additional surgeries, including facial reconstruction procedures involving bone grafts and gum transplants. Though her recovery is ongoing, Howk has made amazing progress in the last year. She plans to return to her work as an EMT. In January, she will begin an accelerated nursing program with the goal of becoming a flight nurse. Howk’s progress in the face of crushing set back is a huge inspiration.

THUMBS UP

All books and films from 1930 are now in public domain

At the stroke of midnight on Jan. 1, the copyright on all works published in 1930 entered the public domain and are now can be legally reproduced or reused for free.. Some of the more popular works that are now copyright free include the 1930 film version of “All Quiet on the Western Front,” William Faulkner’s novel “As I Lay Dying,” the children’s book “The Little Engine That Could,” Agatha Christie’s “The Murder at the Vicarage,” some of the earliest Nancy Drew mysteries. It’s always exciting to see new materials enter the public domain, allowing new generations to experience old works and add their own flourishes.