Construction companies complain stimulus isn't helping The federal stimulus money is coming through in a big way for road building, but, with a few exceptions, it's not been much of a help for other parts of the construction industry.6:25 a.m.
New DNA test may improve cancer screening Researchers at the Mayo Clinic say a new DNA screening may be able to save lives by helping to identify some hard-to-detect gastrointestinal cancers.8:25 a.m.
Commentator urges unallotment of ramp meters Some people see only problems in the state's budget impasse. But others, like Morning Edition commentator Peter Smith, look at the situation and see a big opportunity.8:45 a.m.
National Public Radio Stories
Obama Reaches Out To Muslims On Middle East Trip
President Obama leaves for the Middle East on Tuesday. He is scheduled to make a major address in Egypt on U.S. relations with the Muslim world. He'll also visit Saudi Arabia. Obama talks about his trip with NPR hosts Steve Inskeep and Michelle Norris.
A Door Opens ... To Pie, Coffee And Possibility
The economy has not been kind to the 500 people who live in Ellsworth, Mich. When the diner, grocery, deli and bait shop closed, a local church decided to open up a nonprofit cafe so people in town could have a place to meet and get a decent cup of coffee.
N.Y. Philharmonic Bids Farewell To Clarinetist
When clarinetist Stanley Drucker retires from the New York Philharmonic at the end of June, he will have played in more than 10,200 concerts, with 400 different conductors, over a 60-year tenure.
U.S. Helps Afghans Assume Control Of Local Security
In Afghanistan's volatile Wardak province, U.S. Special Forces are setting up a neighborhood watch program with local recruits that officials hope will help drive out Taliban extremists and other militants. But critics say it doesn't address the real problem: the disconnect between Afghans and their government.
Trailblazing Romance Writer Remembered
Elsie Washington, who died last month, is hailed as the Barack Obama of romance writers. Colleagues say she showed that publishing novels with worldly black characters was possible. She established a precedent that influenced the genre over the past 20 years.
Detroiters Dreading Fallout From Downsized GM
The Detroit area will lose thousands of jobs as General Motors tries to rebuild the company, which filed for bankruptcy protection Monday. GM's global headquarters is in Detroit, and union members and area residents are concerned about what the company's bankruptcy means for them.
Short Sales Of Homes Bring Hope And Frustration
In so many ways, selling for less than what's left on the mortgage has a lot of appeal for homeowners who want to avoid foreclosure. And for buyers, a short sale can mean a good deal on a house. But short sales often end up keeping buyers and sellers in a protracted limbo.
Dow Jones Industrial Average Drops GM, Citigroup
The stock market's best-known barometer is adding Cisco Systems Inc. and Travelers Companies Inc. and dropping General Motors Corp. and Citigroup Inc. The changes were announced Monday as GM entered bankruptcy protection. The government has, through bailout money, become a major Citigroup shareholder and reduced its role as a publicly held company.
Lordstown, Ohio, Hopes To Benefit From GM's Cruze
Residents in the area of Youngstown, Ohio, hope General Motor's new fuel-efficient compact car will help turn the company around. GM will build the Chevrolet Cruze in Lordstown.
Survey: Americans Tired Of Watching Every Penny
According to WSL Strategic Retail, a New York-based consulting firm, Americans are spending more money on certain kinds of foods, including frozen dinners and cereal. The study found that shoppers are tired of watching every cent. They also have begun to spend more on cosmetics, clothing and entertainment.