Supreme Court to hear school disability discrimination case
At issue is a case testing the reach of federal laws that promise special help for children with disabilities in public schools. Specifically: What do parents have to prove in order to get that specialized help?
Conservative Rep. DesJarlais Faces Primary Challenge In Tennessee
One of the most conservative members of Congress, U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, is defending his seat against state Sen. Jim Tracy, who is making the most of the incumbent's personal scandals.
Oregon Proposes Ban On Smoking Along Its Coastline
Authorities want to cut down on cigarette butts in the sand, so they're moving to ban smoking on all 362 miles of the state's Pacific Coast. Repeat offenders could face a $110 fine.
It's Time For Comic-Con!
The annual pop culture convention underway in San Diego is not just for comic books — it brings the biggest stars from film, television and books together with their fans to talk about upcoming, and vintage, work.
What's The Outlook For Nigerian Girls Kidnapped By Boko Haram?
Renee Montagne talks with former U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria John Campbell for an update on the 200 Nigerian schoolgirls kidnapped in April by the extremist group Boko Haram.
Giant Toad Resembling Former President Attracts China's Censors
The 72-foot-tall inflatable is installed on a Beijing Lake. A photo of it — wearing large square glasses just like those worn by a former president — went viral online.
Death Penalty Expert On Why Lethal Injection Is So Problematic
In the wake of Arizona's botched execution, Steve Inskeep talks with Amherst professor Austin Sarat, author of the recent book Gruesome Spectacles: Botched Executions and America's Death Penalty.
As Millions Of People Fast For Ramadan, Does The Economy Suffer?
New research examines the effects of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month during which millions of people around the world go without food all day. Does religious practice affect economic growth?
A Strange Political Dustup Clouds Kansas Governor's Future
An open revolt among moderate Kansas Republicans has clouded Gov. Sam Brownback's re-election hopes and focused national attention on the tax-cutting experiment at the heart of his "red-state model."
Judge To Bulldog Thief: 'You Hid The Pup; The Jig Was Up'
The judge composed a rhyme to let an Oregon man know he'd been found guilty of the crime: stealing a bulldog puppy from its owners at gunpoint.
Sarah Palin Gets A Speeding Ticket, Says She 'Can't Drive 55'
The former governor faces a fine for exceeding the limit in Wasila, Alaska. She joked that the Sammy Hagar song distracted her, adding, "I wasn't speeding; I was qualifying."