WASHINGTON, D.C. — It might be easier for everyone concerned if Minnesota employed Sherlock Holmes to decipher the clues contained in the federal Race to the Top funding rubric. As is, the amateur detectives at the state level are left to guess as to how effective their solutions, designed to address those nebulous goals, will be perceived by the judges — with literally hundreds of millions of dollars to gain for those who guess correctly — and lost for those who don't.

"I no longer think that competition is appropriate for many reasons," he says. "The most compelling one is that education is not necessarily a market. A business must concentrate on its most profitable customers. Public education has to serve everybody."

Related: A new feature: MinnPost Asks

It's not a standard leading economic indicator, but the strong turnout at Monday's job fair, as well as the mood — at least among potential employers — seemed more hopeful than dour. The event, hosted by 3rd District Congressman Erik Paulsen, drew an estimated 2,000 hopeful job seekers.

Cooks and waiters were having a ball, even with a constant stream of customers, one official said. Employees were welcoming and friendly. Even customers waiting in line were very orderly, apparently realizing you can't complain when you're getting something for nothing.

Pleased with the team's new makeup, Pohlad stressed that qualifying for postseason alone was no longer good enough for an organization that has lost five consecutive playoff series since 2002. He even appeared to guarantee a future world championship, without specifying when.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — For years I've scoffed at Washington's inability to cope with snow and cold weather, bragging that a few inches of snow and freezing cold are no big deal for a native Minnesotan. But no longer will I deride Washingtonians as snow sissies because I have become one after this weekend's record-breaking blizzard.

Related: Despite Washington weather, Oberstar undeterred on holding hearing

About 300 tech types gathered last week for schmoozing and updates on such enterprises as great startups, partnerships, product demonstrations and even investment opportunities.

Advocates for the disability community have complained to Minneapolis officials about the city's new access and outreach manager, questioning his experience. The city, however defends the hire, saying that he "brings not only the right skills to this job, but also a passion for connecting with communities."