STUD'S PLACE

Thirty-five thousand, two hundred, twenty-eight days should be enough for any man except if you're Studs Terkel.

Author, radio and movie actor, television pioneer, civil rights champion, humanist, law school graduate, social historian, jazz disc jockey, inspiration to millions, Studs led one magnificant life. As a blacklisted artist banned from his profession till he hooked up with fledgling arts station WFMT in 1953, Studs fought the bullies and blacklisters for the rest of his life, even suing the government in 2006 to stop the illegal spying which has gouged a large chunk out of our precious body politic.

At the end he fought for just a few more days to see one of the heirs of his life long battle to bring civil rights and inclusiveness to our great but flawed society, rise to the Presidency. Though he fell four days short, I'm sure his spirit will enjoy the celebration that will take place in his former hometown of Chicago. Terkel, of course, will enjoy the festivities from his new residence at Studs Place.

Also published in Chicago Sun Times, November 4, 2008; Chicago Tribune, November 8, 2008 and the Daily Herald, November 10, 2008