Morning Cram

From NPR: The Senate minority leader is up for re-election next year, and polling in his state shows his popularity is suffering. Some voters complain that Mitch McConnell is out of touch with the people of the Bluegrass State, and others say it's time for some new blood. Still, he will be hard to beat.

From NPR: Edward Lee's culinary education spans the multi-ethnic immigrant neighborhood of Brooklyn where he grew up to his Korean grandmother's kitchen. His cookbook showcases recipes like lamb braised with soy sauce served over grits and Korean fried chicken.

From NPR: A young woman in Nigeria says God spoke to her in her dreams, guiding her to become a car mechanic. Despite initial resistance from her family, she fulfilled her vocation and has gone on to train other young women to do what one trainee calls "the best job in the world."

From NPR: The Bangladesh garment factory collapse that killed hundreds made super-cheap clothing destined for American stores. Research shows customers will pay more for safely made clothes, but only to a point.

From NPR: With more employees working on the road and more distracting technologies in the office, some companies are creating new ways to improve efficiency.

From NPR: After at least three years of red ink, most states have budget surpluses. It's a sign of a recovering economy, and leaves states with a new dilemma — how best to spend the money?