Weekend Edition Saturday
Saturdays at 8:00am
The program wraps up the week's news and offers a mix of analysis and features on a wide range of topics, including arts, sports, entertainment, and human interest stories.
Chileans weigh a new constitution
by Scott Simon
NPR's Scott Simon talks with Chilean journalist Francisca Skoknic about the upcoming vote to approve or reject a new constitution for the South American country.
Cities Race To The Top Of The Ferris Wheel
Las Vegas is set to claim the title of city with the largest Ferris wheel, but not for long. New York City plans for a taller wheel, and rumors swirl that Dubai may top even that. Host Scott Simon talks to John Russick, director of Curatorial Affairs at the Chicago History Museum, about the first ever Ferris wheel, which debuted at the 1893 World Fair in Chicago.
Have Obama's Troubles Weakened Him For Fall's Fiscal Fights?
by Mara Liasson
Observers say the president's recent fumbles on Syria and other issues have emboldened Republicans. But President Obama's supporters say he has the upper hand when it comes to showdowns over a possible government shutdown and default on the nation's debt.
In Syria Debate, Obama's Internal Dialogue Becomes Audible
by Scott Horsley
President Obama's approach to Syria has taken a number of surprising twists and turns in the weeks since a poison gas attack in August. A surprise agreement between Russia and the U.S. on a timetable for destroying Syria's weapons is the latest in what appears at times to be an unscripted drama.
New Computer School Makes French Students Teach Themselves
by Eleanor Beardsley
The school, simply named 42, requires no high school diploma and no money to apply. It's turning French education on its head, but it may also solve some of the country's most pressing problems.
Colorado Voters Recall Two Gun Control Backers
This week, voters in Colorado recalled two members of the state Legislature who had supported stricter gun control laws. Host Scott Simon talks to Colorado Senate President John Morse, one of those who lost his seat.
Rescue Operations Underway In Flooded Colorado
by Kirk Siegler
Heavy rain and flooding have destroyed scores of communities, with at least four people dead. While the rain had let up a little, more is expected Saturday.
New School Year Brings Sequestration Pain For Many Districts
by Claudio Sanchez
As the nation's public schools reopen this fall, many are facing budget deficits and scarce money due to sequestration. Experts say districts with large numbers of poor students are hit the hardest.