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The U.S. economy is improving faster than previously predicted, according to two dozen economists surveyed by the Associated Press. The economists foresee stronger growth and more hiring than they did two months ago. They also predict an unemployment rate at around 8 percent by Election Day.

Nearly four years ago, the bank collapsed in the biggest bankruptcy in U.S. history — a record $639 billion. That set off a chain reaction and sent the economy spiraling. Lehman Bros. says now, it will continue to liquidate its holdings, and will start paying back creditors next month.

New Jersey's first black Congressman, Donald Payne, died today at the age of 77. He was known as a strong advocate for education and civil rights during his 23 years in office. He also championed international causes like HIV prevention, malaria treatment and famine aid. Host Michel Martin remembers Congressman Payne's legacy.

By far the biggest return on investment would come from expanding access to family planning through Medicaid, a Brookings Institution analysis finds.

The failed bank said it will make its first payment to creditors on April 17.

Fold, founder, flop: That's what the protagonists of these three books do well. Author Lysley Tenorio recommends stories about men whose good intentions are undeniable, if not always admirable. Have a favorite story about failure? Tell us what it is in the comments below.

Many Americans start retirement planning too late. But in her book, Joy Compass: How to Make Your Retirement the Treasure of Your Life, author Julia Valentine says that's only one of many pitfalls. Host Michel Martin talks to Valentine about securing your retirement.

President Obama recently said, "Iran's leaders should understand that I do not have a policy of containment; I have a policy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon." Some say containment represents a viable option against Iran, but others argue that Cold War strategies do not apply to Iran.

A growing field of medical research aims to pinpoint exactly why pets can make us happier and healthier. Some studies show that animal interaction can increase a person's level of oxytocin, a hormone associated with love and trust. And the animals also benefit from positive human interaction.

Syndicated radio host Rush Limbaugh called a Georgetown student a "prostitute" and a "slut" after she testified before a Senate committee and called for federal health care coverage to include the cost of contraception. Limbaugh apologized, but it has prompted a re-examination of the term, "slut."