Search results for

American scientists sometimes complain that they are underfunded and underappreciated. But compared to researchers other countries, they have it pretty good. In Russia, for instance, one physics experiment has been attacked by thieves trying to steal precious metals. In this week's science wrap-up NPR's David Kestenbaum took a look at happenings overseas.

Mid-summer is the busiest time of year for America's traveling circuses. These family-owned businesses play rural towns and county fairs across the country. Stiff competition from movies and television has forced circuses to be leaner and more efficient - but the allure of clowns and elephants and trapeze artists still draws a good crowd. Reporter Brian Mann spent the morning recently with a circus as they prepared for a show.

The World Toe Wrestling Championships, the Cone Museum, and the Blood Pudding Tossing Contest: these along with other British eccentricities are celebrated in the light-hearted book Eccentric Britain. Host Jacki Lyden speaks to author Benedict le Vay about the people that in some countries would be looked at as crackpots, but in Britain are respected and even revered. (Eccentric Britain: The Guide to Britain's Follies and Foibles;The Globe Pequot Press; 2000)

Host Jacki Lyden talks to NPR's Peter Kenyon in Philadelphia, where Republicans are finalizing the 2000 GOP Platform. Except for the controversy over abortion, this year's platform has been softened and toned down from the party's statements in 1996. It reflects the tight hold the George W. Bush campaign has had over this year's convention.

She could become the nation's new First Lady - but what does the nation know of Laura Bush? This week's GOP convention will give voters the first chance to see the woman who stands at the candidate's side. NPR's Wade Goodwyn spent time with Bush friends and associates and brings us this profile of Laura Bush.

Host Jacki Lyden talks with Brazilian singer Bebel Gilberto about her first album Tanto Tempo. Bebel, 33, is daughter of Joao Gilberto, the legendary guitarist, who founded the Bossa Nova music style in Brazil more than 30 years ago. Bebel has spiced her collection of songs with the cool tones of Bossa Nova and a touch of electronic sounds from a diverse group of producers. (Tanto Tempo Ziriguiboom/Six Degrees 657036 1026-2)

After more than a decade of discussions, the Durham Town Council voted this week to remove the Mill Pond Dam on the Oyster River.

NPR's Tovia Smith reports that Massachusetts legislature is considering a bill that would prevent parents from testifying in court against their children. The legislation would give the parent-child relationship the same confidential or privileged status as that between a husband and wife or a patient and their doctor.

NPR's Rob Gifford takes a visit to a summer camp for overweight children in Shanghai China. The opening of American fast-food restaurants, and only children who are spoiled with sugary treats, have resulted in an explosion of obese children.

Jason Beaubien of member station WBUR reports that the Boston Red Sox and lawmakers have agreed on terms to finance a new stadium to replace the 88 year old Fenway Park. The new ball-park could cost more than 300-million-dollars, making it the most expensive stadiums ever built.