It is most likely to be a Northern Pigmy Owl.

They are tenacious and show little fear, even of humans.

You lucky thing!

The rings are for identification and are used to gain information on range, life span, migration and other behaviour as well as to monitor the overall health of a species.
I'm afraid I don't know much about the ringing practices in the States but calling a falconry centre or bird centre would help. Let us know if you find out anything.

It is possible that it is an escapee from a falconer, although unlikely.