Writings

This is an index of some of the articles some of which has audio files attached. The full text is just a click away!

New Orleans Second Line Parade   What you are hearing is the underlying rhythm of the Second Line Parade for Kufaru. Master percussionist Kufaru died the second week of June. He was a popular New Orleans musician - deeply involved with the local latin music scene - who had recorded with the Neville Brothers, Emmy Lou Harris and many others. He was a generous man giving back to his community and was well-loved for it. In his honor his friends and family held a second line. The Second Line was well attended by a wide assortment of musicians carrying everything from banjos to strange brass instruments as well as percussionists whose poly-rhythmic pulse was the heartbeat of the event. A second-line parade has it's roots in the New Orleans jazz funeral. They carry on many of the same traditions leaving out the mourners and the visit to the cemetery. The second-line for Kufaru was set to start in the Marigny district at the Caffeo coffeehouse and gallery.       Read More!                                     Evelyn's Place   There are people and places who are anchors. Vortices. Around whom life swirls, drawing you in, inviting you to join the dance. Such people and places never happen by intent, they manifest by conditions unique in each instance, blooming spontaneously and offering all within their sphere an extra portion of life's nectar. Tucked away in the French Quarter of New Orleans is one such place. You wont find it by looking for gilded trim and beveled glass. Unassuming and inelegant, the crown jewels of Evelyn's Place shine in the hearts and lives of those who have joined the dance that weaves in and out of her weathered doors. Evelyn's Place is on Chartres. The first block off of Canal Street. You might pass it by without noticing it. I did, but something made me stop about ten paces beyond the doors, turn around and go back.       Read More!                                    Raspberry Raspberry, the word can evoke images of a Bronx cheer, a bright-red variety of soda-pop or a small, delicate fruit with a subtle taste that some feel is akin to heaven on earth. My first experience with this fruit was nowhere so divine. The raspberries available from the store were small,...       Read More!                                     Roadkill A short bit of silliness written after a friend told me the tale of his unrequited love.       Read More!                                    The Old Country A late night, a long drive and a stop for coffee. These elements led to an encounter with a reminescent man, drinking coffee and telling of his past.       Read More!                                     Squirrels Do you think you know squirrels? The art of feeding them and getting people to take your picture when doing so? Richard and I thought we did... until one day...       Read More!