Brian Naylor/NPRCritics Say Roads Safer, But Danger Still Lurks
()Better-designed highways played a role in reducing road fatalities to a 40-year low last year. But safety advocates say the road is still a dangerous place, especially once drivers leave the Interstate Highway System.
For India's P.M., A White House Pampering And Feast
The Obama administration has some cleaning up to do after a few perceived missteps on India.
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8 Charged In Terrorism Probe Of Missing Somalis
The suspects are accused of recruiting young men in Minneapolis to go to Somalia to fight.
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President Obama is asking Congress to find a way to extend coverage to every American.
Science
Study: Political Bent Affects How We View Skin Tone()
November 23, 2009 These three photos of President Obama were among images shown to college students as part of a study that suggests political attitudes can impact the way people perceive skin tone. The photos on the left and right have been altered. Self-described liberals were most likely to rate lightened photos as most representative of Obama. Conservative students tended to pick darkened photos.
On The Road To Safety
Golden State Highways Are A California Nightmare()
November 23, 2009 California roads once were the envy of the world. But like a lot of things in the Golden State these days, they’re not what they used to be. Federal Highway Administration data show that of the 20 major urban areas with the worst roadway conditions, eight are in California, with 64 percent in "poor condition."
NPR Health Blog
Guns, Butter No Recipe For Wellness Under Overhaul()
November 23, 2009 Could owning a gun mean your insurance would cost more in the wake of a government health overhaul? Yes, claims the Gun Owners of America, which fired off a letter to senators last week, urging them to vote against moving the Democrats' health bill to the floor for debate.
Europe
Russian Convents Face Obstacles To Restoring Past()
November 23, 2009 Russia has seen an explosion in the number of Orthodox convents in the decades since the end of communist rule. There are now more than 240. Most of the renovated convents — many in remote areas — are based on their distant history and devotion to their particular icons. But for many reasons, reviving the past is far from easy.
Economy
For Firms That Cut Wages, Keeping Workers A Worry()
November 23, 2009 The economic downturn forced many companies to seek extra ways to shrink costs: Some imposed furloughs or fewer work hours; others tried a straight wage reduction. Many of those companies are now concerned, however, about hanging on to their employees.
All Tech Considered
Who's Gaming Now? Seniors Turn To Wii Bowling()
November 23, 2009 The introduction of the Nintendo Wii and its sports and fitness games has greatly expanded the appeal of video games — especially among senior citizens. From California to New York, dozens of teams and more than 1,000 bowlers are in the throes of a virtual Wii bowling competition.
On The Road To Safety
Congress' Safety Agenda Faces Obstacles()
November 23, 2009 With a sour economy, spiraling deficits and automakers in trouble, Congress' safety agenda faces some tough obstacles. Federal transportation and highway safety laws are set to expire this year, and a bill to renew their funding is stalled. So Rep. James Oberstar (D-MN) is pushing a six-year, $500 billion transportation reauthorization bill.
Economy
Iffy Consumer Outlook Clouds Holiday Hiring()
November 23, 2009 Each holiday season, thousands of people find temporary jobs helping retail companies meet the demands of the busiest shopping period of the year. This year, many companies are being cautious about additional hiring because consumers are expected to spend only slightly more than last year.
