Minnesota Public Radio Stories

• Artists ease the pains of recovery
  People who suffer from chronic illness or debilitating trauma are often also afflicted by depression, deep frustration and low self-esteem. However a new program in the HealthEast network of hospitals is finding they can better improve their patients moods, and as a result, their health, through art.6:45 a.m.
• Bonding and education top issues this week at the Capitol
  The state House takes up a bonding bill today aimed at getting some construction projects underway throughout the state. The Senate is expected to vote on an education bill that cuts spending on public schools and raises taxes this week.7:20 a.m.
• Governor's hometown hits hard times
  City officials in South St. Paul worry that cuts in state aid by native son Tim Pawlenty will cause big problems.7:25 a.m.
• Fargo-Moorhead waits for the next crest
  People in Fargo-Moorhead are waiting for the second crest of the Red River. It's expected to come in about two weeks, and it could be as high or higher than last week's record crest.7:40 a.m.
• Fargo-Moorhead students return to school in wake of flooding
  Students in Fargo-Moorhead are finally heading back to school after a week and a half off because of flooding in the Red River Valley.7:45 a.m.
• Monday Markets with Chris Farrell
  Minnesota Public Radio News Chief Economics Correspondent Chris Farrell says the official 8.5 percent unemployment rate belies an even bleaker economic picture.8:25 a.m.
• Twins 'quietly confident,' sportswriter says
  The Twins came within one game of winning the American League Central Division last year. This year, as the team prepares for its opening game Monday night, sportswriter Phil Miller says the roster looks even stronger.8:35 a.m.
• 'Buy local' can be bad economics
  A new Twin Cities-based Web site encourages people to pick three local businesses and spend $50 at each of them every month. Organizers claim that will help the whole local economy. But economist Louis Johnston says buying local doesn't necessarily make economic sense.8:40 a.m.

National Public Radio Stories

• Willpower: A Game Of Strategy
  Willpower is a familiar phrase, but what is it really and where does it come from? What happens in the mind when you resist your impulses in the face of temptation? One researcher used marshmallows and a bunch of 4-year-olds to answer those questions.
• Shakespeare Had Roses All Wrong
  Through Juliet's lips, Shakespeare said "a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." But the Bard may have been wrong — names do matter. Language researchers say your sense of the rose depends on what you call it.
• Hidden Ingredient In New, Greener Battery: A Virus
  In the quest for a more environmentally friendly battery, MIT scientists have turned to biology. They've incorporated a genetically engineered virus into the structure of a lithium battery, allowing for a less toxic manufacturing process.
• Obama Mending Relations With Turkey
  President Obama is on a two-day visit to Turkey to try to rebuild ties with the secular Muslim ally that was deeply alienated by Bush administration foreign policies. Turkey seems ready to welcome the new American leader, but Obama may have to negotiate through some tough spots along the way.
• North Korean Launch Grabs World's Attention
  The U.N. Security Council is seeking a unified response to North Korea's defiant launch of a rocket over the weekend. The North claims it launched a satellite, but the U.S. and South Korea say the rocket, and whatever was on it, crashed into the Pacific.
• Budget Chief Peter Orszag: Obama's 'Super-Nerd'
  As director of the Office of Management and Budget, Peter Orszag has the job of being the president's chief number-cruncher. But he is also known for his skill in public relations, making him a rare breed in Washington.
• Postal Deficit Grounds Wilderness Mail
  The U.S. Postal Service, facing a $6 billion deficit, has decided to end the last remaining backcountry airmail service in the lower 48 states. The service that some see as a crucial lifeline in Idaho's backcountry is scheduled to stop June 30.
• Binghamton Mourns 13 Killed In Shooting Rampage
  People in Binghamton, New York, say it will take years for the city to recover after Friday's devastating shooting rampage. A gunman killed 13 people before killing himself.
• Staying Fit After Marathon Days Are Over
  There comes an age in every marathoner's life when the body says it's time to hang up the running shoes. Still, there's plenty you can do to stay athletic and fit.
• Airlines Had Best Quality Performance In 4 Years
  A new study shows that in 2008, airlines had their best quality performance in four years. Airlines lost less baggage, bumped fewer passengers and had fewer delays. Topping the list with the fewest overall consumer complaints was Southwest Airlines.

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