Domestic abuse among elders remains a hidden problem We've heard of children and caregivers physically exploiting seniors, but it turns out that abuse between partners and spouses is also substantial--and a largely hidden problem.4:50 p.m.
Franken takes oath of office, joins Senate Escorted by former Vice President Walter Mondale and U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Democrat Al Franken took the oath of office this morning on the floor of the U.S. Senate.5:20 p.m.
A list of candidates for governor A long list of candidates from each major party has announced or expressed interest in running for Minnesota governor in 2010.5:53 p.m.
National Public Radio Stories
States Look To Cigarettes To Bridge Budget Gaps
As state legislatures struggle with big budget deficits, some are looking to smokers to help balance the books. But as the number of smokers declines nationwide, analysts warn that tobacco taxes are a declining source of revenue.
For Poets, A Labor Of Love (Not Money)
It is perhaps stating the obvious to say that there is almost no money to be made in poetry. Some poets work as teachers, others in the corporate world. And even a Pulitzer Prize-winning former U.S. poet laureate needs a day job.
What Are Your Favorite Songs Of 2009 So Far?
Just past the halfway point of 2009, we're already thinking about the best music of the year. All Songs Considered host Bob Boilen wants your picks, but in the meantime, he's selected his three favorite songs from The Low Anthem, Fanfarlo and Patrick Watson.
Racial Tensions High After Riots In Western China
Hundreds of majority Han Chinese — many of them armed — took to the streets in Urumqi, China, after ethnic violence between Han and ethnic minority Uighurs in the western Chinese city killed more than 150 people. The government has arrested more than 1,400 people and imposed a curfew.
China Unrest Has Roots In History
This week's deadly clashes in Xinjiang province between ethnic Uighurs and China's majority Han are rooted in tensions that go back more than two centuries, an expert on the Uighurs says. Sean Roberts, director of International Development Studies at George Washington University, says he is surprised tensions didn't boil over sooner.
Robot Mowers Take The Sweat Out Of Lawn Care
In sweltering summer heat, mowing the lawn can become the most dreaded chore. But robotic lawnmowers may soon enough allow Americans to do the job without the labor.
State Welfare Rolls Feel Impact Of Recession
Welfare caseloads have been going up in most states over the past year, but not in all of them. In fact, cases are going down in some of the hardest-hit areas. That's raised questions about whether the program is an adequate safety net for families in need.
States Eye Unused Gift Cards As Revenue Source
Many states are going after unused gift cards as revenue, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. Erica Alini, economics reporter for the newspaper, says about half the states have unclaimed property laws that can be applied to unused gift cards after 2-5 years.
No End In Sight To California's IOUs
California began sending IOUs last Thursday to some of its creditors as well as to taxpayers because of the state's $26.3 billion budget deficit. Reporter Carolyn Said of the San Francisco Chronicle says the situation is likely to continue until the governor and the legislature can fix the deficit.
Rise Of Islamist Group Stokes Unease In West Bank
In the West Bank and Gaza Strip, most people are familiar with the Palestinian Authority and Hamas. But in the past two years a third movement has been making appearances: Hizb ut Tahrir, a shadowy group that officially rejects violence but whose Islamist ideology makes Hamas' pale in comparison.