Deena Prichep
Stories
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Music
A lullaby artist talks about writing empowering, soothing songs for kids (and adults)
Mama Nous writes children's lullabies and simple songs that acknowledge universal emotional truths and help people process their feelings. Kids love them, but so do adults.
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Environment
Moss doesn't get a lot of love. Moss Appreciation Week in Oregon aims to change that
Students at Lewis & Clark College in Oregon are trying to bring more attention to one of the world's smaller and often overlooked plants with this year's seventh annual Moss Appreciation Week. (This story first aired on Morning Edition on February 14, 2025.)
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Environment
'Moss Appreciation Week': a lot of celebration for a very little plant
Moss Appreciation Week is packed with events both scientific... and also silly. Moss walks, moss talks, moss movies, crafting moss-themed Valentines, and a "gastropod derby" with snails and slugs (for whom moss is a nice moist microclimate).
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National
Jews in the U.S. welcome the ceasefire in Gaza, but mourn lives upended by the war
Jewish groups in the United States are warily welcoming Israel's ceasefire agreement with Hamas, while mourning the many casualties of the war in Gaza.
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Muslims navigate the tension between psychedelics for mental health and Koran teachings
The Koran forbids intoxicants. But as psychedelics show promise in treating mental health, some Muslims are trying to figure out if there can be a place for psychedelics within Islamic life.
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Arts & Life
How one Hanukkah tradition originated in European gambling
The dreidel is best known as a beloved Hanukkah tradition. But it actually started as a European gambling toy, only acquiring religious significance in the new world.
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Arts & Life
Volunteers bake personalized cakes for kids in foster care and shelters
For kids in foster care or shelters, it can be hard to find moments of celebration that are just for them. Which is why volunteer bakers across the country bake personalized cakes just for them.
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Arts & Life
How a catchy tune became the soundtrack to TikTok's silliest videos
The song "Monkeys Spinning Monkeys" was released ten years ago and has since become the soundtrack to millions of viral videos. Its story shows how music has shaped — and been shaped by— social media platforms.
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A decade-old wordless song shows how music and social media are shaping each other
Ten years ago, Kevin MacLeod released "Monkeys Spinning Monkeys" — now in tens of millions of TikToks, Instagram reels and YouTube videos. Its path shows how music and social media shape one another.
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Science
In Portland, thousands gather to marvel at migrating birds’ nighttime routine
As Vaux’s Swifts migrate south, they roost together in a chimney, drawing crowds
