Dec 13th, 2007 · Scientists confirm that men don't have the backbone to handle pregnancy. Women do because of the unusual construction of their lower lumbar vertebrae. As the fetus gets bigger, women are actively extending their spine, moving their upper body backwards, and increasing the curve of the lower spine.
May 17th, 2007 · A singer-songwriter from New Jersey, Atkins grew up listening to old-school folk and country, which would later serve as the inspirational backbone for her own soulful crooning and introspective songwriting. Her songs are frequently compared to the work of Loretta Lynn and Patsy Cline.
Dec 23rd, 2006 · There are more decorations in Bethlehem than in past years, but the residents say little has changed. Tourists, the backbone of the local economy, are still afraid to visit.
Feb 13th, 2006 · President Bush's new budget would increase spending for Voice of America, but the proposal would effectively eliminate English-language broadcasts, considered by many loyalists to be the backbone of the service. Other broadcasters are stepping in to fill the void.
Jan 21st, 2006 · Japan reinstates a ban on beef imported from the United States after a shipment from New York arrives with backbones. The Japanese prohibit beef parts connected to the central nervous system, citing fears of mad cow disease.
Mar 22nd, 2005 · Lately, commentator David Chartrand says, he has been reading the obituary pages in his local paper, and seeing the same names over and over again, names like Opal and Ethel. He says they were given strong, sturdy names by parents who wanted them to be strong, sturdy women. Then, baby boomers came along and wanted to give their children popular names like Michelle and Lisa. David Chartrand is the author of A View from the Heartland.
Feb 10th, 2005 · HBO celebrates Black History Month with the world premiere of Lackawanna Blues this Saturday. It's the story of an extraordinary woman whose strength and dignity made her the backbone of the community and a source of inspiration for those who knew her. Tony Award-winning director George C. Wolfe joins NPR's Ed Gordon to talk about the film. The movie features Mos Def, Louis Gossett Jr., Macy Gray, Terrence Dashon Howard, Rosie Perez, Jimmy Smits and Jeffrey Wright.