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Nowruz, the Persian New Year, begins at the exact moment of the vernal equinox, when the sun crosses the equator and winter ends. The 13-day festival features fresh foods with herbs, family gatherings, and plenty of myth and symbolism.

Her mother once told her she'd be disowned if she ever bought a motorcycle. But that didn't stop NPR's Petra Mayer from checking out the International Motorcycle Show in Washington, D.C., and sending an audio postcard.

It was an unusually strong year for great unknown artists. While bigger, more established bands continued to attract the most attention, smaller, lesser-known acts made the most memorable music of 2008. All of the great unknown artists featured here made music that was inspired, original and heartfelt.

Marine officials said this week that instructors at Parris Island, S.C., could have prevented the drowning death of a young recruit last February. The five-month investigation may lead to criminal charges. The family of Jason Tharp still has questions about what happened to their son.

The Akron, Ohio, duo prefers its music sloppy and primitive. They record in a basement, and use strategic pauses to make their two-instrument band sound bigger. Guitarist Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney talk with Steve Inskeep before their set at Washington, D.C.'s 9:30 Club.

Fresh Air's TV critic previews the new series Breaking Bad, about a cancer-stricken chemistry teacher who decides that cooking crystal meth is the best way to support his family after he's gone. The show premieres on the AMC cable channel on Jan. 20.

This weekend, Hollywood's biggest movie release is set in 10,000 BC. But two other "period" movies — The Bank Job and Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day — prove more interesting. Both play with movie styles that have mostly gone out of fashion.

The Bielski brothers gave shelter and protection to Polish Jews who, like them, fled into the region's forests and swamps to escape German persecution. Director Edward Zwick's new film tells their story, but why hasn't it been heard until now?

A scientist who studied anthrax weapons for the federal government has committed suicide. Bruce Ivins, who worked at the biodefense laboratory at Fort Detrick, Md., was being investigated in connection with the 2001 anthrax attacks that killed five people.

In his second inauguration speech, President Bush invokes the memory of the September 11 terrorist attacks and calls for a renewed dedication to "freedom." He also implores young Americans to "make the choice to serve a cause larger than your wants, larger than yourself." Hear NPR's Alex Chadwick and NPR Washington, D.C., editor Ron Elving.