Rob Schmitz
Stories
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National
Navalny Was Poisoned, But His Life Isn't in Danger, German Hospital Says
Alexei Navalny, one of Russian President Vladimir Putin's most prominent critics, was poisoned by an unknown substance from a group of drugs that affect the nervous system, doctors say.
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Business
Families Stuck At Home Turn To Board Game Catan, Sending Sales Skyrocketing
It's a strategy game of trade and development and it's become a hit as people shelter at home during the pandemic. The German founder of the board game describes how he came up with Catan.
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World
Sales Of 'Settlers Of Catan' Skyrocket During Coronavirus Crisis
As the coronavirus pandemic drags on, many people are once again passing the time with board games — and turning to a wildly popular classic from Germany.
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Business
Economic Responses To Coronavirus Pandemic Vary Worldwide
NPR Correspondents Rob Schmitz and Scott Horsley talk about stimulus efforts in the U.S. and Europe and how governments are dealing with sharp and sudden economic downturns during the pandemic.
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World
Germany Faces A Shortage Of Seasonal Farmworkers Due To The Pandemic
German farmers are facing challenges during the coronavirus pandemic, as the country is experiencing a shortage of seasonal farmworkers who typically come from Eastern European countries.
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Health
Germans Protest Shutdown Even After Easing Of Coronavirus Restrictions
A mix of protesters, including citizens against restrictions, extremists and anti-vaccination groups, have taken to the streets in cities across Germany.
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Business
'It's The Wild West': To Meet Pandemic-Fueled Demand, Factories Turn To Making Masks
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a global free-for-all for manufacturing protective equipment, especially face masks. Now factories that once produced curtains or other items are churning them out.
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World
German Chancellor Angela Merkel Warns Against Reopening Germany Too Early
German Chancellor Angela Merkel addressed the Bundestag this morning, cautioning the country not to reopen too soon, lest the coronavirus spread uncontrollably.
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Health
Germany Says It Has Identified The First Coronavirus Transmission In The Country
German health authorities claim great success in testing and contact tracing, even pinpointing the country's first coronavirus transmission to the passing of a salt shaker in a Bavarian mess hall.
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World
Economic Response To Coronavirus Again Exposes North-South Divide In EU
A north-south divide is again dividing Europe, this time in response to the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.