Despite opinions to the contrary I feel my youth was not “misspent.” True, I was usually in concert halls, stadiums, arenas and clubs sometimes to the wee hours listening to music and enjoying the lifestyle that came with working in the “biz.” Even as I grew older and went into other endeavors, the lure of a great band playing late into the night was still appealing. Now as time moves on and the dawn seems to come too soon even when I go to bed ‘round midnight instead of heading out, I still enjoy and support live music. Only earlier. Sure, pool and waterfront bar happy hours are one way to …

I walked into Lefty’s last Wednesday and followed the musical advice coming from the stage. I knock, knock, knocked on wood, baby. And bartender Mike Ziimerman bought me a pint and a menu. But I didn’t need any luck, because I knew with Mary Buck singing and some great players backing her up, a killer musical night was already assured. Mary has been hosting Open Mic nights at Lefty’s on Wednesdays for the past two and a half years with musicians coming from all over to join in the fun and jams. On this night, a young lady on vacation from Pittsburgh bravely faced an unknown crowd. Starting …