Search results for

The Academy Awards officially adopted the "Oscars" nickname in 1939. But who is Oscar, and who started calling them that? We may never know. But here are four enduring legends to consider.

By most countries' standards, China's economy is flourishing. It grew almost 7 percent in the last quarter and 9 percent for 2008. Still, that was a slowdown, snapping a five-year streak of double-digit growth. China is the world's third-largest economy after the United States and Japan.

The gospel group Quincy Jones calls "the baddest vocal cats on the planet" makes a joyful noise in celebration of Thanksgiving. Group members talk about their long and successful career and perform songs during an in-studio interview in Nashville, Tenn.

With voters in the swing state of Iowa today joining those in two-dozen other states who can already cast their vote for president, experts say the surge in early voting is necessitating a change in campaign strategy.

NPR's Ailsa Chang speaks with costume designer Ruth E. Carter, who is now nominated for the fifth time for an Academy Award, about her career and work on the movie Sinners.

American Electric Power, an Ohio-based company, has agreed to a $4.6 billion settlement of a lawsuit over pollution controls at its power plants. The Justice Department says it's the biggest environmental enforcement settlement ever.

Thousands die every year waiting for an organ donation. The Indicator team talks to two economists who argue that paying the families of organ donors would save lives.

In an upsurge of Mideast violence, Israeli soldiers kill at least six armed Palestinians in raids in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. It was the first Israeli incursion deep inside the Gaza Strip since it withdrew settlers and troops from there last year.

Today is Reel Film Day!

Mobile homes have long been zoned out of cities and suburbs. But with updated designs and a housing shortage, they're increasingly being welcomed as more-affordable starter homes.

Lori Anne Madison is the youngest-ever competitor in the National Spelling Bee, which is being held in Washington, D.C., this week. She might also be the only competitor who often studies while swinging upside down.

Julianne Shepherd of The Fader discusses this week's new music releases, including albums by Sigur Ros, Three 6 Mafia, Hercules and Love Affair, and Ry Cooder.