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In Lawrence, Kan., the owner of the Journal-World newspaper applies ambitious news-gathering approaches to very local issues. The media company's efforts have sparked innovation, controversy — and no small amount of envy within the industry.

With quirky melodies and a uniquely clever songwriting style, Sparks has remained one of the most innovative art-pop bands of the past three decades. While never gaining much more than a cult following, Sparks' peculiar brand of pop smarts has influenced everything from '80s synth-pop to Queen.

Joshua Bell plays a Stradivarius violin built in 1713 that's been notoriously stolen a few times. On his latest CD, the young virtuoso borrows a few great classical melodies and transposes them. He discusses his results with NPR's Liane Hansen.

Amy Winehouse is a young Londoner who draws on the musical past while telling tales about love and ex-lovers. She combines '60s R&B and soul, blues and jazz. With a stack of black hair, an athletic trainer's body and a unique personal style, her look is as arresting as her subject matter.

The product of Swedish multi-instrumentalist Emil Svanangen, Loney, Dear recorded its debut CD mostly in his parents' basement and a tiny studio apartment. But in spite of its modest origins, the disc is an immensely satisfying collection of light, lush pop songs with warm electronic cores.

A singer, musician, activist and poet, Patti Smith has spent the last three-plus decades as one of the most visible and iconic figures in punk and rock music. The musical icon joined WFUV host Rita Houston for an interview and in-studio performance.

The boisterous, California-based acid-jazz collective Greyboy Allstars delves deep into vintage soul on "How Glad I Am." Drawing on a snazzy groove, chicken-scratch guitar riffs and fatback horns, the song brings to mind the loose funk of Charles Wright's 103rd Street Rhythm Band.

Turandot, Puccini's extravagant portrayal of ancient China, is home to "Nessun dorma!" — one of music's most famous numbers — a soaring tenor aria that's been recorded by performers ranging from Franco Corelli and Placido Domingo, to the Twelve Girls Band and the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra.

Any history of rock 'n' roll is sure to acknowledge the influence of piano master Jerry Lee Lewis, who popularized his own brand of rock.

As part of the company's goal to reduce waste by 50% by 2030, customers will be able to bring a reusable cup to get their drinks by the end of next year.