The INKster received an email from Priscilla Wegars this week noting that her book, "Polly Bemis: A Chinese American Pioneer," will be representing Idaho at the National Book Festival next month, Sept. 21-22, in Washington, D.C.
"I don't get to go, though," she lamented.
Priscilla is research associate and volunteer curator of the Asian Comparative Collection at the University of Idaho.
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As reported this week by The Associated Press, legendary jazz pianist Marian McPartland died Tuesday night at her Long Island, N.Y., home. She was 95.
Marian performed frequently at the Lionel Hampton International Jazz Festival when the event brought real jazz musicians to the UI campus.
The INKster had the opportunity to interview her numerous times, and along with her awesome talent, she was a real charmer. The young people who participated in the workshops were especially drawn to her.
Marian was born in England, and at the age of 17, entered the Guildhall School of Music in London. In 1938, she left school to tour with a four-piano vaudeville act. From 1978 to 2011, Marian hosted a wildly popular NPR radio show where she chatted about various topics and performed duets with fellow musicians.
When talking about Marian, Lionel often described her as a "real lady who plays a mean piano."
The INKster hopes organizers of the 2014 festival will include a tribute to Marian on the program.
... the blotter rests.
INK is penned by Vera White. To contribute to INK, call White at Serenity Place at (208) 743-5322, or email her at vnwhite@cableone.net.
