Photo as seen on http://www.mavisstaples.com Grammy Award winner Mavis Staples illuminated The Music Hall in Portsmouth, NH, with songs of peace, love, hope, and activism.  This powerful songbird held the audience captive as she belted out her message with such conviction, I wouldn’t be surprised if souls were converted right then and there.  Cute as a button, Mavis told the audience how it was stating, “It’s not over yet.” Mavis got her start early in life singing in her family band the Staple Singers, who became famous for their hit songs “I’ll Take You There” and “Let’s Do It Again”.  As her career grew and evolved, she became widely known and respected for her involvement in the Civil Rights Movement.  Mavis was a personal friend to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and shortly after joining the movement she became an iconic voice of a generation. Her message present day is still very much relevant.  Her voice explored the full range of human emotion, making for a genuine

With music festival season right around the corner, it is time to take stock and gather those essential items needed to make your experience(s) fabulous.  Festivals vary greatly from camping/rural, to urban, and everything in between.  It's important to map out your destination, have a itinerary, and know what you're getting into.  A little research never hurt anybody, and will save you a lot of time, money, and angst.  If you're not prepared, you will not be able to focus on the most important thing: the music.  If you're not focused on the music, you won't be having a good time!  And what's the point of going to a music festival if you're not having a  good time???? Don't fear the reaper, my list will save you!  Here are some tried and true festival savers that will keep you kind and groovin': 10.  Wear and bring comfy clothes.  It's not about being seen, rather, it's about "just being." 9.  Good camping gear will keep you wa