Minnesota Public Radio Stories

• Candidates for governor promise health care changes
  The issue of health care is heating up in the governor's race. Two candidates have already outlined health care proposals, and another two will weigh in on the issue this week. Political observers say the issue affects many Minnesotans' pocketbooks, but it's unclear whether it will ultimately affect their votes in November.7:20 a.m.
• Northwest and flight attendants face off in bankruptcy court today over strike threats
  Northwest Airlines has asked the bankruptcy judge for a temporary injunction to prevent its flight attendants from striking, but there is no clear rule on whether they have the right to strike since the company has imposed a cost-cutting contract on the union. Cathy Wurzer spoke with Anthony Michael Sabino J.D., Professor of Law at the Tobin College of Business at St. John's University in New York. He also practices law at Sabino & Sabino P.C., in New York and has been involved in every airline bankruptcy for the last 20 years.7:49 a.m.
• Zimmermann admits lying to FBI about money
  Closing arguments in the Dean Zimmermann corruption trial begin Wednesday morning in U.S. District Court and the case will likely go to the jury later in the day. Testimony wrapped up in the trial Tuesday with some dramatic testimony from Zimmermann, who took the stand in his own defense.7:55 a.m.
• Bedbug outbreaks are on the rise
  Some of us may have heard the old admonition, "Good night, sleep tight, don't let the bedbugs bite." But recent bedbug outbreaks in Duluth and around the nation's hotels, hospitals and college dorms have turned the nursery rhyme into words of warning. Cathy Wurzer spoke with Jeff Hahn, an entomologist from the University of Minnesota.8:23 a.m.

National Public Radio Stories

• Baghdad Sign Maker Adapts to New Iraq
  Aba Dhar Muhammad Salih is a Baghdad sign maker who used to make signs for small businesses and professionals. Now he designs obituary banners for victims of Iraq's chaotic post-Saddam period.
• Deford Doping Pumps Up Commentary?
  As athletes continue to test positive for illegal, performance-enhancing drugs, commentator Frank Deford asks listeners to keep an open mind about his own doping scandal.
• Lieberman Loss Watched for Larger Meaning
  Political observers are looking for the meaning in Sen. Joseph Lieberman's loss to political novice Ned Lamont in Connecticut's Democratic primary. Does it signal a larger anti-war movement? It was the most important of several notable races on Tuesday that may indicate trends for November's general election.
• Conspiracy Theories Find a Home on the Internet
  Conspiracy theories surrounding the events of Sept. 11 are popping up on the Internet. The documentary Loose Change is an Internet sensation that explores many of these theories. Renee Montagne talks to Dylan Avery, director and narrator of Loose Change. She also talks to historian Timothy Naftali to understand what's behind the fascination with conspiracy theories.
• Congress Considers Warning Labels for Web Sites
  More court fights over the Internet could erupt if a provision to a House appropriations bill passes. The legislation would require labels on sexually explicit Web sites. The sponsors say the labels would make it easier for filtering software to block access to all such sites.
• Yanukovych Caps Comeback as Ukraine's Leader
  In Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych has returned to power as prime minister. The opposition leader was closely identified with the former Communist regime that was ousted two years ago. Yanukovych will share power with President Viktor Yushchenko, who led Ukraine's Orange Revolution.
• Lebanon Hosts U.S. Diplomat for Conflict Talks
  U.S. Assistant Secretary of State David Welch makes an unexpected visit to Lebanon for talks with Lebanon's government on a solution to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict. Meanwhile, Israel intensifies a ground offensive in southern Lebanon.
• Stone's Sept. 11 Movie Is Forced and Unconvincing
  Oliver Stone's movie World Trade Center feels like an attempt to craft a feel-good movie out of a ghastly situation. That makes the film unconvincing. Reviewed by Kenneth Turan.
• Lieberman Loses to Lamont in Connecticut Primary
  Businessman Ned Lamont upsets Sen. Joseph Lieberman in the Democratic primary. Lieberman, a three-term senator, says he will seek to run as an independent in the November general election. The race was seen as a test of anti-war sentiment within the Democratic Party.
• Fed Halts Rise in Key Interest Rate
  For the first time in over two years, the Federal Reserve did not raise a key interest rate. Although there was some disagreement among the board members, most believed the cooling economy invited a pause.
• African Migrants Cross Spain for Vacation Season
  Every summer millions of North Africans head home for vacations with their families, before returning to their jobs across Europe. The exodus grows each year, posing a huge logistical challenge and increasing security concerns.
• Making the Most of Your Vacation
  With the end in sight, many people want to know how to get the most from their vacation before the summer slips away. Renee Montagne talks with Jared Sandberg, "Cubicle Culture" columnist for The Wall Street Journal.
• NFL Chooses Plays it Safe with New Commissioner
  The National Football League, arguably the most successful professional sport in America, has chosen an insider to be it's next commissioner. Roger Goodell is replacing his boss, the retiring Paul Tagliabue, as the NFL's top executive. During his tenure, Tagliabue raised NFL revenues by more than $5 billion. Renee Montagne talks to The Washington Post's Len Shapiro.
• Israeli Government Considers Wider Lebanon War
  In Israel, the security cabinet is meeting to consider whether to send troops deeper into Lebanon. Since the fighting began four weeks ago, more than 100 Israelis have been killed in rocket attacks and ground fighting.
• Police Save Man's Savings from Strangers
  Police in Germany took in a drunken man Monday. His offense? Giving away his own money. The 63-year-old withdrew $17,000 from his bank account, stuffed it in plastic bags and his pockets and, for no apparent reason, started handing out cash to people on the street. He managed to give away nearly $2,000 before police stopped him. They told him they would hold the money until he sobered up and collected it.

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