All Things Considered for November 17, 2008 | Minnesota Public Radio News

Monday, November 17, 2008

Minnesota Public Radio Stories

Target CEO remains optimistic, despite dismal earnings report
With the economy and retail sales steadily slipping, Target Corporation said it will aggressively cut prices heading into the all-important holiday shopping season.4:49 p.m.
Rep. Keith Ellison frustrated with changing face of bailout bill
We're getting more reaction now to the changing nature of the $700 billion financial bailout plan that Congress passed last month. Today, we talked to Democrat Keith Ellison, who represents Minnesota's 5th Congressional District.4:53 p.m.
Franken hones absentee case ahead of recount
Democrat Al Franken's Senate campaign, trailing heading into a statewide recount, argued Monday that a key Minnesota election board needs to examine rejected absentee ballots before certifying the race results.5:20 p.m.
The recount that didn't count
As Minnesota prepares to go through nearly 3 million ballots cast in Minnesota's U.S. Senate race, other elections have been getting a closer look around the state. Local races in Carver, Gaylord and Edina have all had recounts.5:24 p.m.
Making education a priority for homeless students in Minneapolis
When a family's focus is on finding food and shelter, getting the kids to class isn't always a top priority.5:50 p.m.
Former Minn. House Speaker Irv Anderson dies
Anderson, a DFLer from International Falls, led the state House from 1993 to 1997, part of a long legislative career that started in 1964. He retired after the 2006 session.6:24 p.m.

National Public Radio Stories

China Dusts Off, Restores Emperor's Hideaway
American experts are at work in Beijing's Forbidden City, helping tp preserve a long-neglected treasure: the elaborate private retreat of the 18th century Chinese emperor Qianlong.
How To Be Killer At Cocktail Parties
Awkward over hors d'oeuvres? A mess with martinis? Knowing what to say at a cocktail party can be overwhelming — but these three books will have you culturally informed in no time.
The Cajun Swamp Fire Of Feufollet
Feufollet is one of several young Cajun bands trying to preserve tradition, add its own sounds and reach a new generation. The group has been doing that for a decade, even though most of its members are still in college.
Job Cuts Show Depth Of Citigroup's Problems
The banking titan will cut 15 percent of its global staff, which could mean the elimination of more than 50,000 jobs. Citigroup suffered big losses because of the collapse in subprime mortgages. Its efforts to climb out of the hole have been complicated by the economic slowdown.
Wall Street Woes Felt In Small N.Y. Town
The loss of tax revenue from Wall Street is triggering a wave of government cuts in New York state. In Malone, N.Y., those government jobs and services fuel the local economy.
Odd Score Goes In NFL History Book
The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the San Diego Chargers 11-10 Sunday night. It was the first time in NFL history (in more than 12,000 games) that a game ended with that score. Why is the score so rare?
New Ratings Help Buyers Scan TV Energy Use
Energy Star has posted new energy ratings for TVs to help consumers evaluate potential purchases. But an Energy Star listing alone doesn't mean the TV uses less energy. It means the TV is efficient — compared with others in its class.
What Is Twitter? And Other Tech Questions
Last week, All Things Considered launched All Tech Considered. The first segment — about how to scan bar codes and comparison shop with your cell phone — spurred listener questions. Technology expert Omar Gallaga of the Austin American-Statesman answers a few.
American In Afghanistan: Troops, Training Needed
President-elect Obama says the U.S. must refocus on Afghanistan by boosting the number of American troops there and taking other steps. A former NPR reporter with a business in Kandahar begins a series of conversations on Afghanistan.
Reputed ETA Military Chief Held In France
The man authorities say is the military leader of the Basque separatist rebel group ETA — Garikoitz Aspiazu Rubina — is in custody in southwestern France.