While performing some of their original material, comedians Vic Greco and Fred Willard talk about how they come up with their ideas for their shows. Always the entertainers, and while talking over one another, Greco and Willard explain that most of what they do on stage is improvisation.
Elma Greisel is the executive director for the National Citizens' Coalition for Nursing Home Reform. Greisel talks about the continuing struggles of older people's civil rights when placed in a nursing home. She also talks about the abuse and neglect older people suffer when in a nursing home. We as a society, expect the best quality of care for those in the nursing homes, says Greisel, and yet the nursing home employees are not paid very well.
LaDonna Harris, Comanche social activist and politician, talks about Native American history and her work towards reforming the view of Native Americans. She talks about expanding the education about Native American cultures and her work with Americans for Indian Opportunity. Topics such as Columbus, Trail of Tears, religion, and civil rights are discussed.
Robertson Davies, Canadian writer and professor, discusses his newest book, "Lyre of Orpheus," the third book in the "Cornish Trilogy." The summary of the book and its ties to the King Arthur legend are explained.
The early influences of his father, his time in prison, and a bomb being sent to his home are among the topics covered in Dellinger’s book, “From Yale to Jail: The Story of a Moral Dissenter”. Dellinger is best known for being one of the Chicago Eight. He recalls a time in Lincoln Park, IL when he was warned to get out of there quickly because the police were told to attack Dellinger and his group.
Douglas W. Druick, scholar and curator of the Art Institute of Chicago, discusses his book "Odilon Redon: Prince of Dreams, 1840-1916." The interview explores Redon's life and art work, including his techniques he developed because of the time period he lived in.
Burl Ives was born in Jasper County, IL and he attended Eastern Illinois State Teachers College. While in college, he played some football and then he wanted to become a football coach. Ives spent time in Terre Haute, IN, where he played records and sang songs on the radio. To be a great singer, Ives said he knew he had to add dramatization to certain songs.
Allan Evans and Henry Jordan, two young man who grew up in Chicago and attended Dartmouth, discuss their childhoods and adolescent dealing with crime. The two also talk about their gang, The Vice Lords, and the police brutality they experienced. Next, the group talks about the The Foundation Years, a project from Dartmouth.