Deena Prichep
Stories
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
Thousands of Portlanders show up to watch a flock of migrating Vaux's swifts
Since the 1980s, a flock of Vaux’s Swifts has been roosting in a Portland chimney during the month of September, on their way to their winter home in Central and South America. Thousands of Portlanders show up to watch them.
-
The story of the church that ordains you with a few clicks online
Over 60 years ago, the Universal Life Church made it possible for anyone to become a minister and ordain a wedding. Today, weddings officiated by family and friends have become a huge part of the way Americans get married.
