'OZone Email Newsletter for September, 2011

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'OZone Newsletter

Dear Listener,

As a fundraiser for the station, I'm often asked about why it's important to support WWOZ. If you've ever asked me that question, you probably got an opus for an answer. But to keep it simple: WWOZ is part of the living, breathing experience that is public radio in New Orleans and it requires membership support to stay that way. Music is alive and has a pulse just like our DJs, volunteers, staff and members. At 'OZ, we come together every day to bring you the music you love.

And speaking of love, we truly do love the beautiful sounds of phones ringing during our Membership Drives. The Iguanas performed during our last drive, which was pretty awesome. And each time Irma Thomas stops by, the studio is electric with amazing energy. We tend to get a little mushy for Irma, but can you blame us?

The fun begins on September 27th and wraps up on Thursday October 6th (which just so happens to be Membership Director Molly Cobb's birthday!). During this time, you never know who's going to come through the studio. I've seen everyone from burlesque star Trixie Minx, to political commentator James Carville. And there's no more beautiful sight than a brass band performing live, one in queue warming up and a kitchen full of hungry musicians chowing down on all the donated food that comes in.

It's up to all of us to ensure that WWOZ stays a non-commercial, community supported radio station. Become a volunteer, tell a friend to tune in, become a member - whatever part you can play in supporting 'OZ, we thank you.

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Crystal Gross
Development Director

Ponderosa Stomp Music Festival & Conference This Weekend

Michael Hurtt in the studio on Tuesday to promote the Stomp.
Photo by Jennifer Leslie

Taking place from September 15th and 17th at the Howlin Wolf and The Renassiance Hotel, the Stomp has a plethora of related events, including a film series, a late night record night and amazing culture bearers including Barbara Lynn, Al "Carnival Time" Johnson, Huelyn Duvall, Betty Harris and many more.

» Learn more about the Stomp

Legendary New Orleans Arranger Wardell Quezergue Passes

Wardell Quezergue.
Photo from Times-Pic archive

We will treasure our memories of “the Creole Beethoven” at WWOZ. The mark of his exceptional talent impressed our consciousness the way a rare and complex fragrance leaves a trace wherever it travels. Although Wardell Quezergue has joined the ancestors, his legacy will continue to inspire us season after season; year after year as long as we remember his influence on beloved musicians like the Dixie Cups, Earl King, Professor Longhair, Jean Knight, Dr. John, and many more.

» Read Maryse Dejean's reminiscences of Wardell Quezergue

Swamp Shop: Photo Contest Winner

John, from Queensland, Australia, is our winner of the 2011 Swamp Shop contest
Photo courtesy of John

Check out the photos from our Swamp Shop contest. From Antarctica, hanging with penguins, to Jazz Fest, hanging with friends, we have some great photos of our listeners in their 'OZ gear. If you didn't submit a photo in time for the contest, but still want to share, send it our way!

» Check out the contest photos

Fall Membership Drive: September 27 - October 6

Irma Thomas at the Spring 2010 pledge drive.

WWOZ's membership drives are the best times to hear one-of-a-kind performances by New Orleans' brightest stars. Catch all the fun of our Fall Membership Drive from September 27 - October 6 by tuning in! We are challenging 1,000 loyal 'OZ listeners to step up and donate or renew their memberships during our drive so we can keep broadcasting the music that moves you.

» Read about the benefits of being a member of WWOZ

» Pledge or renew now

Collectible Second Line Art Mugs

Detail of mug artwork
Art by Isabelle Jacopin

We all know that the music is the best reason to support 'OZ, but what would we be without some groovy thank you gifts? This Fall we'll launch the first in a series of limited edition mugs featuring vibrant original artwork. In honor of the start of second line season, we're beginning with artist Isabelle Jacopin and her work, "Second Line with Tubas."

» Check out our mug and past collectible CDs

» See the upcoming second line routes

2011 Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival: October 14 - 16

Marcia Ball at Piano Night 2010.
Photo by Jef Jaisun

Celebrating a match made in heaven, the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival brings together everything smokey and soulful, happening this year on October 14-16. Brought to you by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, some confirmed acts featured this year include King James & The Special Men, Marcia Ball, Luther Kent & Trick Bag, and many more. Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the date of the festival.

New Swamp Shop Items: Visors, Bucket Caps and Fanny Packs

Show Host Sally Young rocking the new visor.
Photo by Julie Raimondi

WWOZ's Fall Membership Drive is right around the corner, and we need your help to make it a success! We are looking for phone bank volunteers to help us sign up new and renewing members at the studio. The drive starts on Tuesday, September 27 and runs through Thursday, October 6. With lots of food, fun and live music, the phone bank is the place to be during the pledge drive!

» Visit the shop

Cajun Tailgate Burger

Big enough to share.
Photo courtesy of Louisiana Cookin'

Just in time for all your tailgating needs, a burger that satisfies the Louisiana palate with a good kick from jalapeno juice and Cajun seasonings. Made with an ultra big pattie and served on muffuletta bread, it will clearly label you Rex of the tailgating party. If you like the recipe, then visit Louisiana Cookin' magazine. Subscribe with the promotion code wwoz2011, and they'll donate $5 to WWOZ.

» See this month's recipe