We're Fine, Thanks.

Prairie Public Radio reporter Dave Thompson files a report for NPR on North Dakota's economic miracle. The secret? Microsoft and oil.

All Things Considered: N.D. Economy Goes Against the Grain

Inauguration

Not missed in the big inauguration coverage is an appearance by "the only Jewish legislator in North Dakota," Eliot Glassheim, at the National Jewish Inaugural Ball. Enjoying even greater prominence was a delegation from the United Tribes Technical College that marched in the inaugural parade.

Chicago Is For Wimps

The Windy City, in the grip of sub-zero weather, looks to Fargo for advice on surviving a real winter.

Chicago Tribune: Battling Cold

Sorgatz Alert

According to the New York Observer, Mike "Rex" Sorgatz, formerly of Napoleon, is the toast of the New York new media crowd, possibly due to his spiky hair and oversize Elvis Costello glasses.

New York Observer: Rex and the City

Literary Bonanza

One book section, two North Dakota authors.

Chuck Klosterman and Louise Erdrich are both reviewed in the latest NY Times Sunday Book Review. One writer is accused of "pop culture name-dropping" and "intentionally obscure" cultural references. The other is called a "master tuner of the taut emotions that keen between parent and child, man and woman, brother and sister, man and beast." Can you guess which is which?

Klosterman: "Downtown Owl"

Erdrich: "The Red Convertible"