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How many variants of the coronavirus are there?

February 1, 2021

Many variants of the coronavirus are circulating around the world, but scientists are primarily concerned about three. - P.1 Why scientists are very worried about the variant from Brazil

Live-music venues offer assistance in vaccination efforts

January 31, 2021

Citing venue size, functions and locations, as well as venue staffs' ability to manage large groups of people, music venues across the country have written to President Joe Biden to offer buildings and staff for vaccination work.

Brains On! A super special shot: All about coronavirus vaccines

January 30, 2021

In December, people started getting vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a huge scientific accomplishment and important step in making it safe for us to hang out in person again. So how did scientists develop these vaccines so fast? And how did they test the vaccines to make sure they’re safe? And how do these mRNA vaccines work? The Brains On! Podcast has answers to all your questions, plus New York Times science journalist Apoorva Mandavilli explains what scientists have found out about how long immunity lasts to this new coronavirus. And Kara and Gilly are back with a cow-side chat about herd immunity. Plus: A new mystery sound and a Moment of Um that answers the question, "What would happen if the moon fell down onto earth?" Brains On! is an award-winning science podcast for kids and curious adults from American Public Media.

Explainer: Why it's hard to make vaccines and boost supplies

January 28, 2021

With demand for COVID-19 vaccines outpacing the world's supplies, a frustrated public and policymakers want to know: How can we get a lot more, fast? But scaling up vaccine production is a slow and steady process. As one expert explains, it's not simply adding more water to the soup. - In your state How is the COVID-19 vaccination campaign going? - Tuesday Biden administration to boost vaccine supply amid shortages - APM Research Lab U.S. states are far behind COVID-19 vaccination goals

The Current: How to fight seasonal depression

January 27, 2021

Now is the time of year to talk about seasonal affective disorder. The Current’s Wellness Wednesday guest on Jan. 27, 2021, Craig Sawchuk, is a clinical psychologist and co-chair of Mayo Clinic's Division of Integrated Behavioral Health. Every Wednesday morning at 8:30 CST, host Jill Riley connects with experts and local personalities for some real talk about keeping our minds and bodies healthy — from staying safe in the music scene, to exercising during a pandemic, to voting and civic engagement. Looking for more resources and support? Visit  Call to Mind, MPR's initiative to foster new conversations about mental health.

He saved 669 children from Nazis — a new book tells his story to kids

January 27, 2021

In “Nicky & Vera,” Peter Sís chronicles the work of Nicholas Winton, who helped hundreds kids escape Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia in 1938. - MPR News Presents Voices from the Warsaw Ghetto - Portraits of strength Minnesota's Holocaust survivors - Minnesota Holocaust survivor Eva Gross shares her story

Call to Mind Presents: Life’s Not On Hold – Teens Navigate Missed Milestones

January 27, 2021

The coronavirus response has disrupted the lives of young people in many ways, resulting in missed milestones and opportunities. Life is not “on hold” for teens this year, it’s still moving forward. How are young people finding ways to cope with the disappointments and tangible setbacks?  Attend this free online event from Call to Mind and Colorado Public Radio! Thursday, Jan. 28 5 p.m. CT Register now

Walz budget would hike taxes on highest earners, boost school spending

January 27, 2021

The governor’s recommendations kick off a budget debate that will last well into spring. His call for tax increases on high-end earners and corporations will encounter pushback from Republican legislators. - Earlier Gov. Walz preps 'COVID-19 recovery' budget - Related Minnesota Senate Republicans release legislative priorities