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President Bush says the economy is strong, cites progress in democratizing Iraq and applauds success in fighting terrorism. NPR reporters offer their insights on what the president said, and what he didn't say.

Charles Fishman, author of The Wal-Mart Effect, talks about how Wal-Mart became the largest company in world history. He claims that the retail giant has such power that it affects everyone's daily lives, whether they shop at or do business with Wal-Mart.

Russian President Vladimir Putin takes a swipe at Western critics in his State of the Nation speech Wednesday, accusing them of hanging on to outdated prejudices. His remarks seemed to be a response to U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, who last week accused Russia of using its energy reserves as "tools of intimidation or blackmail."

The New York Times columnist says the stroke forced him to choose: He could focus on what had been lost, or on what remained. His memoir is The Beauty of Dusk. Originally broadcast March 22, 2022.

Commentator Julie Zickefoose is a rural birdwatcher. One of the signature sounds of spring's arrival is the song of the brown thrasher. If you listen closely, the bird seems to be sending out orders. Julie Zickefoose listens and obeys.

Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill are expressing reservations about the prospect of Gen. Michael Hayden heading the CIA. Several members of Congress say the CIA should be led by a civilian.

Lobbying scandals continue to rumble through Washington, D.C. Does life on Capitol Hill mirror the ethical behavior of public servants in foreign countries overseas? Unfortunately, it seems it does.

Americans spend $2 billion per year on organic milk. For milk to be labeled organic, the USDA says that cows must be raised on pesticide-free feed, without hormones. As organic mega-dairies sprout up, small-dairy farmers say some so-called "organic" cows don't get enough meadow time.

Artists Jeanne-Claude and Christo, who last winter exhibited The Gates of Central Park, are now focused on their next installation, Over the River. In development off and on since 1992, the project will festoon the Arkansas River with swaths of fabric, a rural and much larger version of last year's New York feat.

New Orleans rapper Juvenile's appearance at this year's Jazz and Heritage Festival was poignant. His own home was destroyed by Katrina. His recent lyrics focus on the city's problems.