On Friday, July 21, The National Organization for Women (NOW) presented folk singer/songwriter Ani Difranco with their Woman of Courage Award for her contributions to the feminist movement. The vice-president of NOW presented the award to Difranco, calling her music and independent spirit an inspiration, and referencing her founding of Righteous Babe Records in 1990.

While accepting the award, Difranco announced that she is expecting a baby in February. Ani announced that Mike Napolitano – producer of her forthcoming Reprieve album, as well as albums by Andrew Bird, Blind Melon and many other artists – is the father. Reprieve is due in stores August 8, or can be pre-ordered at the Righteous Babe Records Web site.
(image © Righteous Babe Records)