It’s with a heavy heart that WWOZ announces the passing of one of the cornerstones of our volunteer army, Mike Casey. He was 71. Our love and support go out to Mike’s family, which includes his nephew, ‘OZ show host Andrew Grafe. Show host Jamie Dell’Apa has written a beautiful tribute to Mr. Casey on the ‘OZ Blog.

If you are a regular listener to my "Sittin' At The Crossroad" show then you most certainly know Big Daddy O' (Owen Tufts). Recent O' was hit hard with blood clots in his lungs. He had clot in all five lobes. He spent the better part of a week in Loly Kemp Hospital (Charity) in Independence, LA. He got out last week and he is recovering nicely, but still a little short of breath.

Story by Sharon Armstrong.

The thing about Jimmy Crowley --consummate storyteller, songwriter, song collector, musician, and ethnographer -- is that you never quite know what you will get.

I will include an hour tribute to Johnny Mercer on Jazz Roots to celebrate what would have been his 100th birthday. I will focus on Johnny as a songwriter and Johnny as a singer. Join us and learn more about this songwriting icon.