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Cleotha Staples, 78, Is Called Home

Remembering CLEOTHA STAPLES, Pops Staples' firstborn child and a vital element in the Staple Singers' success. Afflicted with Alzheimer's, Ms. Staples died in her Chicago home on Feb. 21.
by David McGee
 

 
 
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Of the Video Event of the Year

The Video Event of 2013: VistaEntertainment-Time Life's CHINA BEACH: THE COMPLETE SERIES and THE DEAN MARTIN CELEBRITY ROASTS: COMPLETE DVD COLLECTION
by David McGee
 

 

 
paul laurence dunbar

At Thanksgiving, ‘Signs of the Times’

'Signs of the Times'--Paul Laurence Dunbar's dialect poem in honor of Thanksgiving, originally published in his 1897 book of verse, Lyrics of a Lowly Life.
by David McGee
 

 
 
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What Comes After the Blues?: Considering Jason Molina

Ravaged by alcoholism, JASON MOLINA died at age 39. A question arises: Is there a 'teachable moment' in how his passing underscores the plight of those attempting to live by their art?
by David McGee
 

 

 
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Thoughts on Passover

In 'Thoughts on Passover,' RABBIE STEPHEN LEWIS FUCHS reflects on this sacred occasion as a time 'to work for the day when all people everywhere are free of Pharaoh-like bondage and able to practice their religion freely.'
by David McGee
 

 
 
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The Quiet Heroism of ‘Right Living’

Contributing editor MICHAEL SIGMAN reflects on the recent fall of 'self-appointed heroes' and the virtues of 'quietly going about one's business.'
by David McGee
 

 

 
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‘The Cry of Anguished Protest, The First of Many Wrought From Me’

From The Bluegrass Special archives: an updated feature on the enigma that was the late BEVERLY KENNEY: Her voice was soft and cool, her eyes were clear and bright, but she's not there.
by David McGee
 

 
 
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Forevermore

His voice belongs to the ages now: Cleveland Duncan, lead tenor of The Penguins, died on November 6, shortly after casting his ballot in the Presidential election. Remembering the great lead singer who made 'Earth Angel' immortal.
by David McGee
 

 

 
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‘He Accomplished Everything He Ever Wanted’

One of the greatest jazz guitarists ever, JOHNNY SMITH passed away on June 11. A tribute to the artist best known for 'Moonlight in Vermont' and 'Walk Don't Run!"
by David McGee
 

 
 
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Remembering Pete Seeger

Remembering PETE SEEGER by those who knew him and in his own words. The first of a two-part tribute.
by David McGee
 

 

 
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Updike & Easter, 2015

Seven new perspectives on John Updike's enduring Easter poem, 'Seven Stanzas at Easter.'
by David McGee
 

 
 
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Jesse Winchester: Talk Memphis

JESSE WINCHESTER Tribute, Part 2: a Jesse monologue, his most extensive comments on his years in and abiding love for Memphis--'It was the world to me'--from an interview with Crossroads to Freedom.
by David McGee