What do you call an accordion player with a pager? An optimist. The old joke aside, the funny thing about the accordion is that this offbeat musical instrument remains a beloved part of our lives. It appears at family gatherings, and adds a perky laye… Continue reading
It used to be that the first thing I’d see each time I opened my credit card holder was my health plan ID. One day, I placed my fitness center ID on top of it. Now when I open the card holder, I grin, because at 70, time spent exercising in the pool is… Continue reading
The terrific podcast, “Second Act Stories With Andy Levine,” is out with another episode worth hearing. It’s called “Never Too Old to Rock N’ Roll: Meet Tom ‘The Suit’ Forst” and is all about a corporate VP who decided to chuck it all to pursue his lif… Continue reading
Part of the VITALITY ARTS SPECIAL REPORT The ongoing debate over whether to remove Confederate statues in the South (and beyond) demonstrates how public art highlights what a society finds significant. By that measure, Ed Hamilton was pretty insignific… Continue reading
Gregory Hines leans on one bended knee and relaxes his elbow on the other. He is wearing a white shirt and slacks, and his bright red jacket mirrors the brilliance of his smile. The celebrated African-American dancer, actor, singer and choreographer, w… Continue reading
Bring on the red, white and blue bunting, make way for the floats, strike up the bands and get ready to “ooh” and “aah” at the fireworks on the 4th of July as we celebrate our country’s 243rd birthday. In 1777, on the first anniversary of the Declarati… Continue reading
When it comes to housekeeping, my wife Sue and I play distinct roles. I do the cleaning, laundry, shopping, and cooking. Sue thanks me. Considering Sue has a full-time job, I have no problem with this arrangement. In all immodesty, I can claim to be a … Continue reading
(Editor’s note: Covering LGBTQ issues is an ongoing Next Avenue priority, and this June, during Pride Month, we are publishing a special LGBTQ-focused series. The first article in it: How to Be an LGBTQ Ally.) Drag in all its sequined, feathered and b… Continue reading
Part of the VITALITY ARTS SPECIAL REPORT Picture this: You’re a working actor. You master tricky pratfalls and stunts, memorize reams of lines, sing, dance — and do all of this in front of a live audience eight times a week. Sounds exhilarating, yes? M… Continue reading
When the “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin died last August, it was believed that she hadn’t prepared any kind of estate plan, including a last will and testament. But now, nine months after her death, three handwritten wills have been found in her home … Continue reading