Matt Markgraf

By Duane Bolin

Murray, KY – There are two things students, professors and faculty collectively look forward to each year: Winter Break and Summer Break. With nearly 3 weeks in, and one week left, Commentator Duane Bolin, a Professor of History at Murray State, answers the question, What do professors do during winter break? At least, here's what he does

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By Brian Clardy

Murray, KY – For some, New Years Eve means a night with the family, gathered around a television to watch the ball drop as the clock strikes 12. For others, it's a night on the town, partaking in local festivities. One year, for Commentator Dr. Brian Clardy, it was a night at NPR's Toast of the Nation 2004, bringing in the new year in an intimate concert with Kurt Elling.

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By Brian Clardy & Debbie Owens

Murray, KY – Since its creation in 1966, African Americans have celebrated their cultural heritage with the celebration of Kwanzaa, which derives from a Swahili phrase meaning First Fruits. Dr. Brian Clardy and Dr. Debbie Owens explain the origins of the week long celebration and the seven associated principles.

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By Brian Clardy

Murray, KY – Some call the 1965 animated classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, the Christmas special that almost never was. With a miniscule production budget, choppy animation and no laugh-track, producers were certain the special would be a complete flop But to a complete surprise, it was a smash hit, eventually winning an Emmy and a Peabody award Commentator Brian Clardy talks about why this telling of the true meaning of Christmas has stayed in the hearts of countless viewers for over 40 years.

By Duane Bolin

Murray, KY – When Edward Johnson, associate to Thomas Edison, strung lights around his home Christmas Tree in 1882, opened his windows, and flipped the switch passersby called it magnificent local newspapers called it a publicity stunt and Johnson was called the Father of the Electric Christmas Tree Lights. One hundred years ago, a tree adorned with lights would have cost around 2000 dollars, but now it's tradition for families around the world. Duane Bolin examines the importance of lights in traditions, religion, and literature.

By Duane Bolin

Murray, KY – As we think of potential New Year's resolutions, such as eating better, reading more, or spending more time with loved ones, we decide to make plans for a future... uncertain. For a horizon unforeseen. Duane Bolin ponders what lies beyond life's horizons and whether or not it's really worth knowing the answer.

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By Brian Clardy

Murray, KY – From fruitcakes to lutefisk, every family's got their time honored holiday traditions. Commentator, Dr. Brian Clardy takes us to South Fulton Tennessee, and shares some of his Christmas customs between town and family.

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By Scott Vander Ploeg

Murray, KY – According to the National Assessment for Adult Literacy, over 40% of the US Population read at a basic or below basic level. What's more is that the percentage of adults with proficient reading skills has declined over the past 10 years. Dr. Scott Vander Ploeg talks about the importance of effective language skills in a commentary he calls Big Words.

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By Brian Clardy

Murray, KY – For most, the holiday season signifies a time for celebration... It's no wonder why it's been declared The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. But for some, the winter holidays can be the loneliest time of the year A bittersweet reminder of past times and hardships... Dr. Brian Clardy shares with us a story from his past about how the passing of a loved one launched a new holiday tradition for his family.

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By Scott Vander Ploeg

Murray, KY – According to CarTalk.com, the 1952 MG-TD is sleek, stylish and drives only marginally better than a bath tub. Commentator Scott Vander Ploeg talks about his first hand experience with the classic automobile memories both fond AND frightening.

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