Duke Ellington in Wisconsin:

Today is the anniversary of the death of musical legend Duke Ellington. The most prolific composer of the 20^thcentury, Ellington was a musical innovator throughout his life. Commentator Dean Robbins tells us about a piece Ellington wrote just for us.

Dean Robbins is the editor of Madison’s alternative weekly, Isthmus.

Driving to Door County:

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start to the summer travel season. Writer Catherine Jagoe looks forward to one such trip all year.

Catherine Jagoe is a translator, poet, and the author of the chapbook Casting Off. 

Photo Oscar_Shen

Ramps:

Each spring, ramps inspire the breathless praise and devotion of foodies and foragers. Writer Brett Laidlaw explains the appeal of this wild edible.

Brett Laidlaw is the author of the book Trout Caviar and the blog of the same name.

Photo by killacam

The Birds:

May is prime bird-watching season in Wisconsin as many migratory birds return to nest or stop to refuel on the way north. Commentator Eddee Daniels tells us how he learned to hear the birds of spring.

Eddee Daniels is a photographer and writer in Milwaukee.    

Photo markkilner

State-in-law:

Many of us come to love Wisconsin by birth. But for others, it comes through marriage. Writer Benjamin Percy tells us how Wisconsin became his state-in-law.

Benjamin Percy is the author of two novels, Red Moon and The Wilding, as well as two books of short stories. He’ll be at Boswell Books in Milwaukee on May 14^th. 

Breakfast at Rosie’s:

Every morning at 5:30, Rosie Perez and her daughter, Teresa Kerns, open up the quaint and cozy Rosie’s Café in La Crosse. They’ve been working together for almost 30 years. Rosie’s usually in the back making soup, pies, cinnamon rolls from scratch, while Teresa switches between serving tables and cooking on the grill. In honor of Mother’s Day this weekend, WPR’s Maureen McCollum spent a morning with them and found that their secret to success is working together as a dependable team.

Slimey Crud Run:

There are many organized motorcycle rides and rallies in Wisconsin. But writer Ron Davis has a special place in his heart for one particular ride.

Ron Davis teaches English at UW-Stevens Point.

Photo: Ron Davis