My grandmother, the nurse: "We are in the real war zone now"

My sister Eileen is transcribing the World War I diaries of our grandmother, Florence Green Shay.  The entries begin in July 1918 and end in February 1919. If you're counting (or even if you're not), that's almost 100 years ago. Grandma -- or "Mudder" as we called her -- was a 25-year-old Army nurse from Baltimore when the good ship Baltic took her and the personnel of Base Hospital 42 American Expeditionary Force to Liverpool.

During the crossing, she's in high spirits. She dances with a major named Pinky – “the major is some dancer.” She worries about rumors of German submarines – “we are in the real war zone now.” She marvels at the clunky rubber floatation suits they were supposed to wear in the event of a sinking – “they are supposed to keep us up in water for three days.” One evening, she attends “ a dandy entertainment” conducted by the 62^nd Coast Artillery.

It's a young woman’s voice – flirtatious, weary, funny and peeved. I never heard this voice in person -- it would be several decades before me and my eight brothers and sisters would hear her speak. By then, she was a Denver matron in her fifties, a woman who enjoyed her evening highballs, bridge with friends, and cheering from afar for her hometown Baltimore Orioles.She wasn't old exactly, just Grandma, the woman who shrieked with joy when the grandkids came to call and squeezed us into her mighty bosom. 

At Eileen's request, I'm writing the intro for the book. I'm her big brother, after all, and a writer. I thought that I'd read the entries and dash off a jaunty introduction to a book geared mainly for family. But a strange thing happened. By the third entry, I could hear my grandmother's voice. It's a treat to hear her youthful voice. One of her favorite terms is "dandy." She wraps up a long shift at a frontline hospital and makes fudge with other nurses or gets ready for a date with a major or a captain of maybe even the mysterious Lieutenant Colonel S.

We are only 18 and 21 and 25 once. Our voices reveal our hopes and dreams and fears. Grandma didn't seem especially concerned about the future -- the present was plenty interesting.  

There is very little about the suffering of the men under her care. She goes to the Front in August and is the thick of it through Nov. 11. She mentions “those poor boys” and her many shifts in the pneumonia and mumps and surgical wards. In one entry, she talks about working for 42 hours straight. She works through numerous air raids and shellings. ”If we have many more air raids, I am afraid my hair will turn white. No bombs struck our place but oh my."

"Oh my!" An air raid might bring other words to my lips. But that "oh my" says a lot about Grandma. I can hear her say it. It is as fresh as if she were whispering in my ear. And she is, in a way. Diaries are secret things. It's as if she's talked into the pages and the words are now lifting into the air to tell us what Florence was like on a September day near Verdun or Chateau Thierry. People were dying, yes, and there was plenty of suffering, but Florence was alive and bored and hungry and ready for a night out with a fella from Pittsburgh or Charleston who wasn't going to be her boyfriend or husband but was also young and alive and far away from home.

She speaks. I listen. It's more than a dandy entertainment. Thanks to my Sis for transcribing the diary. Now, Eileen, about that intro...

If you're a RINO, CROW wants you to go

Great letter to the editor by Ken McCauley in Sunday's Wyoming Tribune-Eagle. In it, he explores the new ultra-conservative Republican group, CROW, which is making a lot of noise in an effort to unseat RINOs in the Wyoming State Legislature. To learn more about this new political menagerie, read Ken's letter at http://www.wyomingnews.com/articles/2012/06/18/opinion/featured_letter/letter01.txt  

Sample regional beers and music this weekend at Wyoming Brewers' Festival

The Wyoming Brewers' Festival in Cheyenne June 15-16 has beer and music, including Another Kind of Magick Friday night. FMI: http://www.wyobrewfest.com/

Out West at the Autry explores "Same Sex Dynamics" among 19-century Mormons on June 16

My friend, Gregory Hinton, grew up in Cody and spent some quality time there last year on a research fellowship at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center. He shared some of his research on these pages. Go to http://hummingbirdminds.blogspot.com/2012/01/gregory-hinton-at-bbhc-in-cody-out-west.html.

Greg, who's creator and producer of "Out West at the Autry" in L.A., always has some unique offerings about LGBT life in the West, especially the rural West. Here's his latest venture:

Dear Friends of Out West:

Please join us at the Autry in Griffith Park this coming Saturday, June 16, 2 p.m., in conversation with scholar D Michael Quinn and USC Associate Professor William Handley discussing Quinn's "19th Century Same Sex Dynamics Among Nineteenth-Century Americans: A Mormon Example," winner of the Herbert Feis Award from the American Historical Association and named one of the best religion books of the year by Publisher's Weekly.

This ranks among our finest programs - twenty-five and counting - in partnership with museums, libraries and universities in ten states. 

I am so grateful to the Autry National Center, Tom Gregory, HBO, David Bohnett Foundation, Gill Foundation and the Gay & Lesbian Rodeo Heritage Foundation for their continuing support. 

I am especially proud to announce that the CIty Council of Los Angeles has formally recognized Out West as an "Angel in the City of Angels!" 

Gregory Hinton, Creator and Producer, Out West at the Autry at
gregoryhinton@earthlink.net

Get your "slow food" on at Tuesday Farmers Market

Cindy Ridenour, president of the Tuesday Farmers Market board of directors, says that the market will bring in two "slow food" chefs during the summer to teach buyers about using fresh ingredients. Said Ridenour in today's Wyoming Tribune-Eagle: "These chefs will be showing how to get back to cooking with real natural foods that you can get at our market rather than reaching for the Cheez Whiz or Bisquick." So stroll onto the Depot Plaza in downtown Cheyenne to find fresh local foods and fine handmade crafts. Products featured this Tuesday, June 12, 3-6:30 p.m.:

• Locally-raised fresh vegetables
• Colorado Western Slope cherries
• Locally raised mushrooms
• Grass-fed beef, lamb, and bison, pork, poultry, goat's meat
• Farm fresh eggs
• Bratwurst, chowders, bisque, smoked wild-caught salmon, tamales
• Dine on the plaza or take-home BBQ
• Locally produced honey, jams and jellies, hot sauce
• Gourmet pastas, flavored oils and vinegars
• Fresh breads and baked goods
• Natural, locally-produced body care products
• Hand-crafted glass gifts, wood working, alpaca fiber crafts, photo cards and other crafts

Live Music by Franklin Taggart

In memoriam: Colorado writer Ed Quillen

Freelance journalist Ed Quillen died at 61 last Sunday in Salida, Colo., a place he put on the map with his humorous, curmudgeonly columns. For decades, his columns were a must-read for me. His final piece was in the June 6 Denver Post and focused on Colorado’s rep as “home of the Red Scare,” a tradition that goes back to the 1870s, with the labeling of Utes as “indigenous communists” who must go. Big Bill Haywood and other union leaders got the commie label later and now we have the Denver Republican Party inviting Fla. Repub Rep. Allen West to speak about modern-day commies in the ranks of the Democrats. Who’s a Colorado commie in Congress? Rep. Jared Polis, millionaire entrepreneur turned public servant. Ed, We are going to miss you! Read his final column at http://www.denverpost.com/quillen/ci_20543845/yet-another-red-scare?source=pkg. Read his obit at http://www.denverpost.com/obituaries/ci_20781716/denver-post-columnist-ed-quillen-dies-at-age

Democratic candidates drop in on Cheyenne Pride Day festivities

Lee Filer, candidate for Wyoming HD12

Two new Democratic Party candidates for the Wyoming State Legislature attended today's Cheyenne Pride Day picnic at Lions Park. Lee Filer is running in House District 12 and Gary Datus is running in HD 42. Both are newbies. Lee is a hard-working family man -- he's a railroader and a member of the Air National Guard -- and he's fired up to take on the Republican contenders still in the race (incumbent Amy Edmonds chose not to run). He's only 32, which makes him several decades younger than the average Wyoming House member. As a Dem and a Gen Y guy, he would automatically add to the diversity of the Legislature. Gary Datus was in education for 42 years, 27 of them as principal of Triumph H.S., Johnson Junior High, and others. Gary would be a good guy to have in the fight. Judging by their performance during the past two legislative sessions, Extremist Republicans have a low regard for publicly-funded educators -- publicly-funded anybody.

Incumbent Dems Mary Throne and Jim Byrd also spoke at the picnic, which is sponsored by Wyoming Equality. Jim Byrd spoke about the face that WE represents the kind of equality that he thinks the Equality State is all about -- equal right for everyone. He also pointed out that at least five House races in 2010 were decided by 20 votes or less. So get out there and vote, people!

And remember that Wyoming Equality is holding a dance and fund-raiser starting at 8 tonight at Suite 1901 in downtown Cheyenne. Tix are $5 for members, $10 for non-members.

Democrats in Laramie County say, "We ain't dead yet!"

This editorial cartoon on WyoFile illustrates the dilemma faced by badly outnumbered Dems in WY. But we Dems aren't ready to North Koreanize our state just yet. Read the comments on WyoFile: http://wyofile.com/2012/06/single-party-state/

From Joe Corrigan and Wendy Soto, Laramie County Democrats Grassroots Coalition:

Please join us at a “Meet the Candidates Open House” sponsored by the Laramie County Democrats Grassroots Coalition at the home of Joe Corrigan, Treasurer, 3626 Dover Road, Cheyenne, on Sunday, June 24, 1-5 p.m.

We've all heard fellow Democrats say, "I wish we had more people running on our side of the ticket," or, "I wish our party were stronger." As Wyoming Democrats we are accustomed to playing the role of underdog. However, in these trying times, when ultra conservatives would like to destroy the moderation which is the hallmark of Wyoming politics, we have no choice; we must become stronger NOW.

The truth is the Wyoming Democratic Party is strongest when we all get involved. We must back our candidates, volunteer our time and energy, donate a little of our hard earned cash, and give our candidates the encouragement and support they need to survive the campaign and more important, to win elections. One step in the right direction is to join us on June 24 to meet candidates and raise money for the Laramie County Democrats Grassroots Coalition. All money raised will go toward providing resources and support for our candidates. In return, you'll meet these impressive candidates, shake hands with some hard working elected officials, get to know energetic fellow Democrats, enjoy delicious refreshments, and have a good time!

We are suggesting a minimum donation of $25 for this event, but all donations will be greatly appreciated. If you can't attend the Open House but you want to show your support for the Laramie County Democrats Grassroots Coalition, please send your contribution to LCDGC at PO Box 2986, Cheyenne, Wyoming, 82003. We hope to see you on June 24!!!  

Please RSVP by calling Joe at 630.6192 or Wendy at 635.2609 by June 18, 2012.

WY Wilderness Association hosts a weekend of art and nature at Honeycomb Buttes

From a press release from the Wyoming Wilderness Association:

The Wyoming Wilderness Association is excited to be hosting a weekend of art and nature with Joan Hoffmann, extraordinary oil and pastel artist from Colorado and Vermont, conservationist and teacher.

Friday- Sunday June, 15-17, Hoffmann will inspire painters of any medium or skill level, in a car campout near Honeycomb Buttes. Saturday morning artists will rendezvous to set up car camping near the Honeycombs, with short day hikes to paint, and campfire critiques and stories to follow. Sunday morning, artists will paint the gorgeous Honeycomb Buttes for a grand finale of an inspiring art-filled weekend. This opportunity is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Martha Tate at 307-672-2751 or visit WWA’s website at http://www.wildwyo.org/

Wyoming Wilderness Association encourages everyone to take advantage of the summer, get out and explore the wild parts of the state, and find out what makes Wyoming and its wilderness areas so special.

WY ACLU and WY Equality urge WY to live up to its "Equality State" motto

Say Amen:

The ACLU of Wyoming is teaming up with Wyoming Equality to fight for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights and marriage equality in Wyoming because we believe in a society that values fairness and equality.

Say Amen again, brothers and sisters:

The true measure of us as a state is how we treat each other. Every individual should have the opportunity to make a lifetime commitment legally to the person he or she loves. Want to help us fight for LGBT rights and marriage equality in Wyoming? Please contact us to find out ways to get involved. More info at http://acluwyomingchapter.blogspot.com/2012/06/equal-rights-in-equality-state.html

Cheyenne Pride Day: BBQ by day, dance by night

Cheyenne Pride takes place on Saturday, June 9.

Lions Park Gazebo. Free hot dogs and hamburgers from 12:00 - 4:00 pm

Dance at Suite 1901 from 8:00 pm - 1:00 am. Admission: $5.00 members, $10.00 non-members

Sponsored by Wyoming Equality. 

Go cowboy crazy this weekend over Joanne Kennedy's "Cowboy Crazy"

My writing pal Joanne Kennedy debuts her new novel from 6-8 p.m. tomorrow (June 9) at Barnes & Noble in Cheyenne. It's called "Cowboy Crazy" and it's her first novel with a laughing cowboy on the cover. The guys on the cover always look so seriously hunkish. But this one looks positively gleeful (although still equipped with dangerous pecs bared by an open shirt). For years, Joanne was a member of our local writing critique group and I got to know her work well. Not that I'm a fan of studly cowboys, but I am a fan of good writing and of stories well told. Go out and buy "Cowboy Trouble " or "Cowboy Fever" or "Tall, Dark and Cowboy" or... you get the picture.

Petersen: Diverse voices needed in Wyoming Legislature

Kathleen Petersen: Diverse voices needed in Legislature -- Wyoming Tribune Eagle Online:

Giving a voice to the people, especially minority groups, is what prompted Kathleen Petersen's run in state House District 8. 

She hopes to increase the number of women and Democrats in the Wyoming Legislature to offer a more balanced mix of perspectives, she said. 

“I just feel for a good, balanced government, you need to hear from more than one demographic.”

That one demographic is old (or aging) conservative white guys. I have nothing against aging legislators, it's just their calcified brains and hardened hearts that piss me off. So, if we can just get a few more women or minorities or just-plain Democrats in the Legislature, we'll be light years ahead of where we are now, which is somewhere in the Triassic Era.

I especially welcome Kathleen's District 8 bid. That's my district. We used to have a woman legislator representing us -- Lori Millin. Our current rep, Repub Bob Nicholas, is another predictable Republican with predictably bad voting patterns.

Take a serious look at Kathleen for the upcoming election. Read the WTE profile at above link.

Wyoming's only largest Juneteenth celebration set for June 16 in Cheyenne

This comes from Nancy Sindelar's excellent e-newsletter. BTW, the Chris you see named at the bottom of your screen is my lovely wife, YMCA membership coordinator and fellow NAACP member.  You can catch her talking about Juneteenth on Channel 5 tomorrow morning, some time between 6-7 a.m. Here's the news:

Saturday, June 16th, Cheyenne:  Juneteenth Cultural Park Festival.  Celebrate the day the Blacks in Texas finally found out they were no longer slaves, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.  Food and merchandise vendors, rap groups, demonstrations and non-profits.  11 AM, Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, Ames Ave at Martin Luther King Ct.  Info:  Chris, 634-9622 ext13.  Free.  

Wisconsin defeat as seen from Wyoming

There you have it (from Blowing in the Wyoming Wind):

"...with surprising support from union households, Wisconsin voters retained a governor who promised to destroy the labor movement in a state with a proud history of protecting worker's rights... Nearly 40% of Wisconsin union members voted to retain the man [Scott Walker] who loathes them."  

This union member in Right-to-Work Wyoming is disgusted. We start every day knowing the cards are stacked against us. We have to stand together or perish. 

If you like your films wild & scenic...

Multitalented multitasker Forrest King works on four paintings at once for next Art Design and Dine

The next Art Design and Dine Artwalk features "Portraits in Progress – Live painting by Forrest King"

Thursday, June 14th from 5-8 at the Ancient Sage, 1726 Capital Ave in Historic Downtown Cheyenne

Four new portraits in progress by Forrest King, two of which have not been revealed to the public, will be worked on simultaneously!

The paintings worked will be Harry P. Hynds, Alex Frye, A Little Girl Named Jayne, and Leah Zegan.

Other works in progress will also be on display, including the Battered Bride, Repression Number One, and a nameless one!

Stop by for a refreshment, and if you purchase something from the Ancient Sage you will be entered into a drawing for a “one of a kind” signed 8×10 print of your favorite Forrest King painting. (Only customers who buy during the event will be entered)

Happy Mama Conference in N.C. for mothers of kids with real, but invisible, brain-based disabilities

This sounds like a fabulous retreat for mothers (and possibly fathers) of kids with ADHD, OCD, SPD, and so on. From the "Easy to Love but Hard to Raise" blog that I write for occasionally:

The Happy Mama Conference & Retreat will take place July 28–29, 2012, at the Rock Barn Golf & Spa, in Conover, North Carolina. Here’s what the retreat is all about, as described on the Happy Mama website, www.if-mama-aint-happy.com :

What: A CONFERENCE that focuses on your needs as the mom to a child with a very real, but invisible, brain-based disability, like ADHD, ADD, OCD, ODD, FASD, PBD, SPD, PDD, or one of the many other overlapping conditions that make parenting your child an extra challenging situation, and a RETREAT, where we’ll provide you with wonderful food, spa opportunities, fun activities, and camaraderie with other moms who know exactly where you’re coming from.

Why: Because parenting children with invisible disabilities is an extremely stressful, isolating, and emotional job and one which can impact your health and well-being in a negative way.

The retreat, hosted by DRT Press (publisher of Easy to Love but Hard to Raise) and the website {a mom’s view of ADHD} (founded and edited by Penny Williams) and supported by a growing list of sponsors, including CHADD and the Catawba Valley Medical Center, will offer the perfect blend of education, support, and pampering.

Saturday’s speakers will cover: “Parenthood, Stress, Health, and Resiliency,” “Advocating for Your Child in School,” and “How to Be Happy: Calming Techniques for You and Your Child.”Sunday will be devoted to fun and pampering, which may include spa treatments, relaxing by the pool, gem mining, hiking, yoga, horseback riding, or kayaking.

Doesn’t that sound fabulous? I can hardly wait!

Sharon Barbary Bryan registered for the conference, but has since found out that she’s unable to attend. Sharon is donating her conference registration and on-site lodging, approximately a $350 value, to a deserving mom! The retreat organizers are running a contest to determine what lucky mama will be the recipient of Sharon’s generous gift. Here’s how it works: Follow this link. Nominate a special needs mama whom you feel deserves to attend the retreat, by writing a sentence or two in the comments field (of that post, not this one!) explaining why she needs a break. The contest will run June 1 – June 22.

If you are interested in attending whether you win this contest or not, please don’t hesitate to register now. Registration is just $129 until July 1. If you are “in the business” of ADHD, FASD, ASD, or other brain-based disorders and wish to become a retreat sponsor, email happymamaretreat@gmail.com

for their sponsorship package

Meg Lanker-Simons' Cognitive Dissonance gets "Golden Thinkr" honors from ThinkProgress

Laramie blogging pal Meg Lanker-Simons (Cognitive Dissonance) has just been named one of 10 Tumblr Golden Thinkrs by ThinkProgress (see her sardonic visage at bottom left of graphic). Agreed -- Meg's blog is a hoot and filled with cool graphics and digs at wacko conservatives, of which we have many in Wyoming. Meg is off to NN12 in Providence this week where she will earn more fans. Here's the news:

The moment you’ve all been waiting for is here! After months (days) of eager anticipation (quiet indifference), ThinkProgress is pleased to award our inaugural Golden Thinkrs to 10 tumblrs that have made us laugh, cry, think, sing, skip and—in one particular moment of weakness—drink heavily.

There are too many unique and worthy voices on Tumblr to cram into one award ceremony, so instead we relied on a complicated, mathematical formula to whittle down our list to what you see here. We did not—repeat, DID NOT—throw darts at a board and choose the first 10 we hit.

We be ugly in Wyoming

From TV reviewer Mary McNamara's LA Times review of the "Longmire" pilot:

Where Longmire strides, Vic bounces, and though Sackhoff doesn't have quite enough to do in the pilot, the chemistry between the two will no doubt be the river running through the show. While anything can happen over time in a TV series, their relationship appears remarkably, and mercifully, free of sexual or even romantic tension, despite their being the two best-looking people in the county and probably the state. (No offense meant, citizens of Wyoming.)

"Longmire" on A&E is based on the novels of Craig Johnson of Ucross, Wyoming, pop. 25, in Sheridan County, home to several ruggedly attractive people.

Obama for America phone bank June 4 in Cheyenne

From Obama for America, Wyoming chapter:

What: Obama for America team meeting and phone bank in Cheyenne

Where: Laramie County Public Library, 2200 Pioneer Avenue, Cheyenne, WY 82001

When: Monday, June 4, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Contact: 307-461-1702

M.L. Liebler "rides the quatrains" in Afghanistan

Detroit's "Beat Angel" M.L. Liebler is one of the presenters this weekend at the Wyoming Writers, Inc., conference in Casper. He just wrote a great story in the Detroit Metro Times about a recent trip teaching poetry workshops in Afghanistan. Go to this link on the Wyomingarts blog: http://wyomingarts.blogspot.com/2012/05/from-ml-liebler-poet-and-teacher.html

Dems' Spring Hat Tea postponed until June 24

This just in...

Unfortunately, the Spring Hat Tea, originally scheduled for June 2, has been cancelled due to unforeseen events. However, please save the date for Sunday, June 24, 2012. Another exciting Grassroots Coalition event is being planned.

Wear a fashionable hat -- and raise funds for Dems

From fun-loving Dem Wendy Soto: You are invited to a lovely Spring Hat Tea this Saturday. Come join your Democratic friends for tea and desserts. Let's celebrate Spring by planning to elect Democrats in November.   Please join us and invite a friend!  Saturday, June 2, 2-4 pm  Wendy Soto's home, 3439 Essex Special guest speaker: Robin Van Ausdall, E.D. State Party Tickets $15, second ticket of nonmember guest $10 Show off your most fabulous hat!

Meet upstart Dem Lee Filer at June 1 barbecue

Lee Filer is a Democratic Party candidate for HD 12 running against Republican Amy Edmonds. He is having  a fundraiser on Friday, June 1 at 6:30 at 1503 West College Drive which is AB Camping. The cost is $25 per plate (great BBQ). Please join Lee in his effort to defeat Amy Edmonds in November.

Here's a WTE story about Lee's fund-raiser, followed by some interesting comments. Seems that there are more that a few GOPers in right-winger Amy Edmonds' district who want someone else....

"Are we artists or monkeys?" -- three essays about the current state of "creative placemaking"

We've spent a decade hearing about the "creative class" and "creatives" and "creative placemaking" at one arts conference after another. Young creatives are transforming neglected city centers into arts oases where the artrepreneurial economy thrives, or so the story goes. There are success stories, to be sure, but not every imagined "creative placemaking" project comes to fruition. In Cheyenne, we're still working on several projects that, if successful, can revitalize downtown. But we still have that ugly gaping hole at the core of our city center. Hard to imagine a thriving downtown with a hole in its middle.

A triple dose of reality comes from a story by Ian David Moss at Createquity.com and two others from the Adobe Airstream blog written by arts writer Ellen Berkovitch and "young arts professional" Hannah Hoel about the Imagined Futures project in Santa Fe which hasn't gone much beyond the imagining stage. One only has to look at the URL wording to see the tenor of the articles:

Ian David Ross: http://createquity.com/2012/05/creative-placemaking-has-an-outcomes-problem.html

Ellen Berkovitch: http://adobeairstream.com/art/creative-santa-fe-coals-to-newcastle/

Hannah Hoel: http://adobeairstream.com/art/placemaking-in-santa-fe-are-we-artists-or-monkeys/

Morris House Bistro: Blending the art of food & historic preservation

The Morris House Bistro, a fine dining establishment in downtown Cheyenne featuring South Carolina Lowcountry cuisine, received the Bill Dubois Award for Historic Preservation on Tuesday. Bill Dubois, grandson (and namesake) of Cheyenne's most famous architect, presented the award to Morris House Bistro co-owners Dameione Cameron and Troy Rumpf. The restaurant has been opened barely a year and it's thriving, and soon will offer a Sunday brunch. Read the Wyoming Tribune-Eagle article: Restaurant honored for historic preservation. For more about MHB, go to http://www.morrishousebistro.com/.

A long drive made short -- on the road with the "Blue Heaven" audiobook

Yesterday, Cheyenne writer Karen Cotton's blog featured a Q&A with best-selling writer C.J. Box that included news about the upcoming film of "Blue Heaven." It made me think about the long drive across Wyoming last summer that was made shorter (and much more fun) with the accompaniment of the "Blue Heaven" audiobook.

A long drive made short. That may be the best way to describe the effects of a great audiobook. "Blue Heaven" is that kind of experience. This was Chuck's (that's how most Wyomingites know C.J.) first stand-alone novel, the first outside of his best-selling Joe Pickett series. It came out in 2008 and was a big hit. It was selected by the American Library Association as a 2008 Reading List award winner in the category "Adrenaline." The action is intense as 12-year-old Annie and her younger brother William witness a murder in the Idaho woods and now have to escape pursuit by a group of retired L.A. cops who have big secrets to hide. Some unexpected heroes help them, but readers are kept guessing all the way to the end.

One of Chuck's gifts is his ability to portray "us," those of us who live and work in the Rocky Mountain West. He's adept at showing the clashes between Old West and New West. In "Blue Heaven," rancher Jess Rawlins, one of the main characters, is beset by realtors and bankers and clueless newcomers from "The Coast." While the setting is northern Idaho, this could be Anywhere, Wyoming, those places Chuck knows so well -- Rawlins, Cheyenne, Sheridan, Encampment, even the mythical Saddlestring, Game Warden Joe Pickett's home base. This authenticity has earned the author many fans who aren't necessarily big readers. His book signings features teen boys, retirees, ranchers, bikers, teachers, and diehard Baby Boomer book-buyers like me. His audience is broad and deep. They like him in Germany, France, Japan, the U.K. and 20-some other countries, too.

My preferred delivery system for a good story is the actual book that I can read on a summer afternoon under the shade of a high plains cottonwood. Reading and long-distance driving (especially when you're the driver) aren't a good mix, which led to the invention of audiobooks. Last summer, I listened to the Laramie County Public Library's copy of "Blue Heaven." They may now have multiple copies, or soon will, and copies of the book. Read or listen to it now, before the film comes out and there's a big rush to see what the fuss is all about.

Jalan Crossland's "Portrait of a Fish" tour rolls into Cheyenne

Not a self-portrait of Jalan...

As he wrapped up last night's second set at the Historic Plains Hotel in Cheyenne, Jalan Crossland invited the audience to his hometown August hootenanny -- the NoWoodstock Festival in Ten Sleep.

"Did he say NoWoodstock?" my wife Chris asked.

I nodded. And tried to explain. NoWoodstock is not exactly the opposite of the legendary gathering. It is held outdoors, and sometimes it rains, but it's not likely to draw 500,000 retro-hippies for three days of peace and love and cause a blockbuster film and album (remember those?) to be made.

NoWoodstock is a bit like Jalan. A little bit country, a little bit folk, a little bit storytelling, with equal parts singing and picking the guitar and banjo. Throw in some food and drink, mosquitoes and sunburn, and there you have it.

But back to last night. Jalan's solo concert was arranged by the Cheyenne Guitar Society, its third event of the season. The series had a number of sponsors, including the Wyoming Arts Council and the LCCC Foundation. The performance was delayed by 20 minutes so that hotel staff could bring in more chairs. By the time Jalan took the stage, the room was packed and very warm. There was a long line at the ballroom bar.

Jalan writes and plays his own songs. Most come with a splash (sometimes a raging torrent) of humor. So when he said that this was the first time he'd played in Cheyenne outside of a couple of weddings, nobody knew if he was kidding. I didn't get to ask him, but it seems unlikely. In the past couple months, he's been to New Orleans and the annual songwriters' festival in Key West. His next stop is the Upper Meramac Flatpicking Guitar Camp & Americana Music Festival in Steelville, Mo. Then come stops in Nebraska and Iowa before a big concert June 1 at the WYO Theater in Sheridan. He arrives back in Ten Sleep August 12 for NoWoodstock. Get the full concert schedule at http://www.jalancrossland.com/concerts.htm

At the Plains, Jalan played some of his favorites, many of them shouted out from the audience. They included "Don't Taze Me Bro," "Trailer Park Fire," "The Little Girl & the Deadly Snake" and "The Loneliness of the Long-Distance, All-Night Chicken Trucker." We could almost smell the "Trailer Park Fire" -- open doors brought a whiff of wind-blown smoke from the wildland fires burning in northern Colorado. Jalan played some tunes from his new CD, "Portrait of a Fish," including a moving rendition of Gordon Lightfoot's "Don Quixote." He alternated between banjo and guitar. Some of the up-tempo numbers caused some impromptu dancing to break out at the front of the room.

The evening ended too soon. Judging by the crowd at the merchandise table, Jalan was selling a lot of T-shirts and signing scads of CDs and posters. Weddings are nice and all, but it seems odd that Jalan's public appearances in Cheyenne are so rare. But it is a long way from the wilds of Washakie County and NoWoodstock. That's not Jalan's next concert stop, but it may be ours.

Cross-posted to the Wyomingarts blog

Tickets to CIFF"s screening of "Bully" are free, thanks to Wyoming Humanities Council

All tickets are FREE for the May 17 Cheyenne International Film Festival screening of “Bully” at the Frontier 9 Theater. Thanks to the Wyoming Humanities Council for underwriting the program including discussions before and after the film. Doors open at 6:00pm – movie at 6:30 pm. There is no cost for tickets, but are required for admission to keep a seat count. There may be “Rush” tickets available at the door.

Daniel Junge returns to Cheyenne with an Oscar-winning doc and a new short film

This comes from the CIFF's Alan O'Hashi: The Cheyenne International Film Festival is honoring Oscar-winning documentary filmmaker Daniel Junge on Saturday, May 19. The full evening event is selling out, but CIFF is offering tickets for the films, interview and questions and answers with Daniel Junge. The films include “One Day” which is Daniel’s latest short film followed by the Oscar-winning “Saving Face.” Tickets are also available at the Phoenix Books and Music walk-up box office 1612 Capitol Avenue in Downtown Cheyenne. Tickets for the reception honoring Daniel Junge are also on sale online and at the box office.

Firefighter Joe Fender announces election bid, warns Legislature: "Don't mess with" state retirement system

From a Wyoming Democratic Party press release:

Cheyenne Fire Fighter Joe Fender has announced his plan to seek the Democratic nomination for the House District 7 seat in the Wyoming Legislature. 

Fender, a fifteen-year veteran of the fire service, is a lieutenant with the Cheyenne Fire & Rescue Department. “I have dedicated nearly my entire adult life as a public servant, so I see serving in the Legislature as a way for me to continue to give back to the community that has been so good to me and my family” said Fender. 

Fender said his strengths are his understanding of the legislative process as well as local issues directly affecting the citizens of House District 7. He said his neighbors are concerned about water quality. They are concerned that hydraulic fracturing will damage their drinking water and don’t want to wind up like the people in Pavillion. Fender believes Wyoming can continue the economic development of minerals while protecting the land and water for future generations. 

Fender’s experience as a fire fighter has helped him to understand the role the state can play in making sure Wyoming’s citizens get the critical services they deserve. He said a consistent plan must be put in place to make sure local communities have quality basic services such as safe, well-maintained roads, clean water, good schools and public safety.  

“We need to take a hard look at our finances and determine whether we should continue our current level of Mineral Trust Fund deposits,” said Fender “or whether it is time to invest some of that money into critical infrastructure, where it will directly affect the lives of the citizens of Wyoming”. 

Fender has several important issues for legislative attention. Wyoming ranks at the bottom of the nation in worker deaths and injuries as well as ranks at the bottom in gender gap equality, he noted.“Women in Wyoming make only 67 cents for every dollar earned by their male counterparts,” said Fender. Fender said Wyoming women are often forced into low-paying jobs, or forced to stay home altogether, because childcare costs eat up too much of their paychecks. “Mothers need access to quality childcare,” he said.

Fender said many citizens worry about where the Legislature is taking the public pension system. Some 89,000 people rely on the Wyoming retirements they have earned for their years of service, he said. Most of them reinvest that money right back into Wyoming’s economy. “The reality is that the average monthly retirement benefit for public employees in Wyoming is $1,200 a month,” said Fender. “Anything we do that interrupts that revenue stream will have serious consequences to retirees and local economies”. Fender said several studies show the Wyoming retirement system is actually one of the most stable in the country. The Wyoming Legislature shouldn’t mess with something that works, he added. 

Fender pointed out that he has considerable experience working with the Wyoming Legislature. “With five years of lobbying experience representing firefighters and public safety under my belt, I feel as though I have the knowledge, skills and abilities to represent my district by being responsive to the constituents.”

From Blowing in the Wyoming Wind: Are we addicted to negative politics?

Cheyenne's Rodger McDaniel explores how the Twelve Steps can help progressives maintain their sanity during the upcoming presidential battle. Go to...

Blowing in the Wyoming Wind: Are we addicted to negative politics?: According to a recent analysis, 70% of presidential campaign commercials run so far have been negative. It will only get worse. ...

My favorite parts:

With one-tenth of one percent of the electoral votes necessary to elect a president, Wyoming voters are powerless to impact presidential elections. Regardless of whom we support, you and I are powerless to avoid the inevitable. Those measly three electoral votes will go to Romney no matter what you think or how much money or time you contribute. While we are powerless over the outcome, we can control our own sanity. But if we remain addicted and follow the campaign, reacting to the daily negativity of the candidates, their TV ads and surrogates, our lives will become unmanageable.

Regardless of how incensed we become listening to the attacks on our candidate, the only impact will be to our own blood pressure and our relationships with others. The same man (and it will be a man) will win regardless of how crazy it all makes us.

Here's what I plan to do during the election. I will keep a positive attitude, avoid those wacky talking heads on corporate news channels, avoid debates with Republicans over which candidate said which stupid thing, eat well, sleep the sleep of the righteous, exercise, and imagine an Obama second term.

Mother's Day has roots in early peace movement

From Nation of Change:  

Mother’s Day began in America in 1870 when Julia Ward Howe wrote the Mother’s Day Proclamation. Written in response to the American Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War, her proclamation called on women to use their position as mothers to influence society in fighting for an end to all wars. She called for women to stand up against the unjust violence of war through their roles as wife and mother, to protest the futility of their sons killing other mothers’ sons. Read more here

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Big turnout at Governor's Offfice for signing of Children's Mental Health Awareness Week proclamation

Top photo: Big turnout Wednesday morning for Governor Matt Mead's signing of the proclamation for Children's Mental Health Awareness Week. A large group of concerned parents and children joined with UPLIFT staffers and board members, representatives from the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Division, and Sen. Floyd Esquibel. Everyone received a "Children's Mental Health Matters" ribbon and balloon, even the Governor. Bottom photo: UPLIFT’s Kim Conner asked me, as an UPLIFT board member, to share some national stats on children's mental health with Gov. Matt Mead at Wednesday’s proclamation signing.

Revealed: Full List of ALEC's Corporate Members (and a Wyoming company is on it)

Common Cause has a full list of ALEC's Corporate Members (via AlterNet). Couldn't find the names of any Wyoming corporate members, but there are very few major corporations based in WY. The list shows that Cloud Peak Energy is located in Colorado. But that's not what it says on the CPE web site:

Cloud Peak Energy Inc. (NYSE:CLD) is headquartered in Wyoming and is one of the largest U.S. coal producers and the only pure-play Powder River Basin (PRB) coal company. As one of the safest coal producers in the nation, Cloud Peak Energy specializes in the production of low sulfur, subbituminous coal. The company owns and operates three surface coal mines in the PRB, the lowest cost major coal producing region in the nation. The Antelope and Cordero Rojo mines are located in Wyoming and the Spring Creek Mine is located near Decker, Montana.

The company employs lots of people and sponsors worthy causes in the state. So why does it belong to an anti-worker org such as ALEC? Find out more about the American Legislative Exchange Council at ALEC Exposed. Here's a snippet from its site:

Through the corporate-funded American Legislative Exchange Council, global corporations and state politicians vote behind closed doors to try to rewrite state laws that govern your rights. These so-called "model bills" reach into almost every area of American life and often directly benefit huge corporations. In ALEC's own words, corporations have "a VOICE and a VOTE" on specific changes to the law that are then proposed in your state. DO YOU?

Daniel Junge will be on hand to intro his Oscar-winning doc May 19 at CIFF

The Cheyenne International Film Festival program for 2012 is completed. The CIFF May 17-20 is highlighted by Cheyenne native Daniel Junge and his Oscar-winning documentary “Saving Face."

He’ll be on hand and in person at a reception taking place on the Mezzanine of the Plains Hotel on Saturday, May 19. The screening takes place across the street at 1615 Lincoln.

Saturday is full and starts with a return screening of John Ford’s classic western “Cheyenne Autumn” which made its World Premiere at the Lincoln Theater in 1963. Actress Carroll Baker will participate in a live interview via Skype following the movie.

See the entire program here.

Cheyenne lecture about the Indian Removal Act documents "The Dark Side of American History"

Blame "Old Hickory"

A sordid tale, but one that needs to be told, and will be this week at the Wyoming State Museum in Cheyenne:

The Indian Removal Act, an unpopular and controversial part of the settlement of the American West, will be the focus of this month’s Wyoming State Museum lecture series presentation on Tuesday, May 8, at 7 p.m.

Dr. Robert Munkres, of Estes Park, Colo., presents “Indian Removal: The Dark Side of American History.” His presentation discusses the problematic relations between the Anglo population and the tribes native to the regions being settled.

Increasingly, white authority called for the removal of native tribes to the West, culminating in the passage of the Indian Removal Act of 1830.

This presentation describes the implementation of the act, together with the terrible cost it imposed upon the Native American population.

For more information about this and other State Museum programs, please call 777-7022. The Wyoming State Museum is located in the Barrett Building, 2301 Central Avenue in Cheyenne.

Early intervention and prevention crucial for children's mental health

Here are some points to ponder about children’s mental health. As a parent of children with mental health challenges, and as an adult who's dealt with recurring bouts of depression, I ponder these things often and not only during the upcoming week devoted to education and awareness. Governor Matt Mead will sign a proclamation on Wednesday, May 9, 10 a.m., designating May 6-12 as Mental Health Awareness Week. The following stats come from the Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health. 

• One in five young people have one or more mental, emotional, or behavioral challenges.  One in ten youth have challenges that are severe enough to impair how they function at home, school, or in the community.
• One-half of all lifetime cases of psychological challenges begin by age 14, and three-quarters begin by age 24.  In addition, 80% of people who experience multiple issues with mental health and substance abuse report onset before the age of 20.
• Suicide is the third leading cause of death in adolescents and young adults. Children experiencing symptoms of psychological challenges, particularly depression, are at a higher risk for suicide.  An estimated 90% of children who commit suicide have a diagnosable mental illness.
• Despite high rates of mental illness in children, 4 out of 5 children ages 6 to 17 who have experience symptoms do not receive any help.  The majority of those who do not receive needed mental health services are minority children.  For example, 88% of Latino children have unmet mental health needs.  In addition, Latino children are less likely than others to be identified by a primary care physician as having a mental disorder.
• Unmet mental health needs may complicate daily activities and education for youth.  Almost 25% of adolescents who required mental health assistance reported having problems at school.  Over 50% of students who experience psychological challenges, ages 14 and older, drop out of high school—the highest dropout rate of any disability group.
• Early detection and intervention strategies for mental health issues improve children’s resilience and ability to succeed in life.  According to a study by the National Institute of Mental Health, preschoolers at high risk for mental health problems showed less oppositional behavior, less aggressive behavior, and were less likely to require special education services 3 years after enrolling in a comprehensive, school-based mental health program.

What can you do?

Create awareness surrounding positive mental health practices and supports.  Work to reduce stigma!

Contact your local, state and federal legislators to request funding for early intervention and prevention programs. 

Encourage culturally and linguistically competent supports and services.

UPLIFT has a terrific list of resources for Wyoming families at http://www.upliftwy.org/resources.html. I am on the UPLIFT board and admit to a certain bias. But it is a terrific list.

Jalan Crossland -- from Ten Sleep to Key West to Cheyenne

Ten Sleep, Wyoming's "trailer park troubadour" Jalan Crossland will perform in concert on Wednesday, May 16, 7 p.m., at the Historic Plains Hotel ballroom in Cheyenne. Tickets are $10, $5 for students. Sponsored by the Cheyenne Guitar Society. FMI: http://cheyenneguitarsociety.com/

Jalan's on stage this week at the Better Angels Songwriters Festival in Key West..

Jalan's Dylanesque mug graced the Iowa newspapers last December when he was arrested at an Occupy protest in Des Moines during the Iowa Republican caucuses. We expect some new songs emerging from this encounter. Read more at http://hummingbirdminds.blogspot.com/2012/01/planet-jackson-hole-wy-picker-causes.html

One of Colorado's top ten summer concert destinations is in Cheyenne

Merle

The Denver Post says “don't miss these 10 summer concerts.”

Colorado's legendary summer weather combined with Coloradans' renowned passion for live music creates a maelstrom of good times. And here are 10 shows we're especially looking forward in the next few months.

Some great names on the list. Mana. The Shins. The Denver Ukefest with Jake Shimabukuro, Nellie McKay and Aldrine Guerrero. Slim Cessna's Auto Club.
Number seven on the Post’s top ten list is a concert series in a neighboring state – ours. Pretty unusual choice in this usually Denvercentric Front Range universe.

7. CHEYENNE FRONTIER DAYS WITH ZAC BROWN BAND, BRAD PAISLEY, MERLE HAGGARD, JOURNEY: Frontier Days always features a big lineup, but this year's is especially mammoth. From country legend Haggard to megastars Brown and Paisley — along with arena rockers Journey — this is as solid a lineup as the event has in years. (July 20-28, Cheyenne Frontier Nights).

Cool.

Read more: Colorado summer music preview: From Drake to Jack White, the UMS to Folks Fest, don't miss these 10 summer concerts

A photo sampler from the Wyoming Outdoor Council's annual calendar contest

Skull Creek Rim, Adobe Town, Wyoming’s Red Desert.

Lupines, Happy Jack Road, Southeast Wyoming

Wyoming is a photographer's dream. Check out some of these shots by Laramie's Ken Driese. Ken submitted them to the annual Wyoming Outdoor Council calendar contest. See more: Photo Submissions: Spectacular Red Desert, Laramie Basin, and More

Rep. Mary Throne -- one of the good ones -- announces reelection bid

I've leafletted a few neighborhoods and made phone calls on behalf of Mary Throne. And I may just do it again, even though I'm not lucky enough to have her as my Rep. This news comes from a WyoDems press release:

Representative Mary Throne, House District 11, announced today she intends to seek re-election to the Wyoming House of Representatives. The House Minority Whip is seeking her fourth term representing her Laramie County constituents.

Throne is widely recognized as a bi-partisan leader, able to work across the aisle on issues of importance to the state of Wyoming and Cheyenne, particularly in the areas of energy and education. In 2011, she was the House sponsor for legislation to provide road assistance for counties impacted by the Niobrara play. Laramie County received $1.7 following the passage of the bill. When she saw her children losing nearly a month of class time to PAWS and learned Wyoming was spending millions of dollars more than most surrounding states on testing, she teamed with fellow legislators to streamline Wyoming’s K-12 assessment system. Rep. Throne was then appointed to serve as the only Laramie County member of the Select Committee on Statewide Educational Accountability. She has been the prime sponsor of successful bills to assist deployed military with child custody orders, to improve Wyoming’s property tax appeal system, and to increase access to legal services, as well as being a strong advocate for worker safety.

“The best legislative work I have done does not carry my name.  When we park our politics and focus on finding solutions to the issues that matter to the people of Wyoming, only then are we doing our jobs. Wyoming is facing an uncertain funding future due to low natural gas prices. Fortunately, we have saved during the good times to help prepare for this situation.  If re-elected by the voters in House District 11, I am committed to working with my colleagues to preserve essential government services.” Throne said.

In addition to her other legislative duties, Rep. Throne serves on Judiciary, Rules, Management Audit, the Select Committee on Capital Financing and Investments, where she is Vice-Chair, the Taskforce on Capitol Building Restoration and Energy Council.   As one of a handful of women serving, Rep. Throne is the Vice-Chair of the bipartisan Wyoming Women’s Legislative Caucus, a group that actively works to encourage women candidates at all levels of government.

Rep. Throne and her husband, Kevin Boyce, a geologist, have three sons at home.  She is a member of Rotary, the First Presbyterian Church, and the Laramie County School District’s Parent Advisory Committee.  Throne grew up on a ranch in Campbell County, earned an undergraduate degree at Princeton and her law degree at Columbia Law School, graduating in 1988. She returned to Wyoming in 1992 to work as an Assistant Attorney General, representing the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality before moving into private practice in 1999.

Local blogger interviews Wyoming author Craig Johnson about his books and upcoming "Longmire" A&E series

Craig Johnson's latest
Walt Longmire mystery
 debuts May 15.

Cheyenne writer Karen Cotton interviewed Ucross, Wyoming, mystery writer Craig Johnson ("The Cold Dish," "Another Man's Moccasins") for a story on her new blog. She got some great quotes. Here's one with Craig describing his ongoing main character, Absoraka County Sheriff Walt Longmire:

“I was looking for an individual that would be emblematic of the American West, but still complex enough to be compelling to readers,” Johnson said. “Walt is, what I refer to as, a detective for the disenfranchised; he cares about the cases that no one else does. He’s an elected official that’s responsible to his community and I like that better than the ‘lone-wolf’ style characters that kills forty people before the book is over. Walt is a little ‘over’—over age, over weight, overly depressed, and facing a lot of the things that the readers face every day and I think that keeps him real.”

The sheriff (portrayed by actor Robert Taylor) will star in a new TV series on A&E, "Longmire." It debuts June 3.

Read more at Karen's blog: http://lifeisassweetascottoncandy.wordpress.com/2012/04/29/new-york-times-bestselling-author-craig-johnson-dishes-about-his-new-tv-series-on-ae-and-his-latest-book/

ALEC influence in Colorado politics tracked by ProgressNow

ProgressNow's blog tracks ALEC influence in Colorado politics. Go to http://progressnowcolorado.org/blog/

Rodger McDaniel: ALEC casts a spell over Wyoming state legislators

Rodger McDaniel writes today about what we've known for awhile -- "ALEC owns your state legislators." Read all about the American Legislative Exchange Council's undue influence on Wyoming lawmaking in Rodger's weekly Wyoming Tribune-Eagle column (if you get the paper), or on his Blowing in the Wyoming Wind blog. Here's a good line:

In a technical sense, ALEC doesn't lobby "in any state" as it claims [on its web site]. It leaves that to legislators who fall under its spell.

Get more details at ALEC Exposed