No, you won’t intimidate good journalists

As a former journalist, I wholeheartedly endorse every word of this article … and can attest to the veracity thereof.

Broadside

12/27/95–On Military Route “Arizona”- A sign warns of mines that were planted in a field during the Bosnian war. In a report published by the Bosnian and Herzegovina Mine Action Centre, it stated, ” In Bosnia and Herzegovina there is still remaining more than 80,000 mines/ERWs. Mine problem is present in 129 municipalities/cities, or 1,398 affected communities/settlements.” photo: Jose R. Lopez/New York Times

By Caitlin Kelly

The past week has offered another look at how men try to bully women — this time an exchange between NPR’s Mary Louise Kelly and the U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

From Kelly:

He was not happy to have been questioned about Ukraine. He asked, do you think Americans care about Ukraine? He used the F word in that sentence and many others. He asked if I could find Ukraine on a map. I said yes. He called out for his aides to…

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Back From Italy

Hi, everyone. I had great intentions of scheduling posts to appear while I was away visiting Pompeii, Naples, and Herculaneum last week … but that simply didn’t happen. My apologies!

I promise, there will be some posts about my adventures in the days to come, including some photos. For now, enjoy this teaser shot of the brazier inside one of the men’s baths at Pompeii. It was paid for by a man whose name was Vacula, which means “little cow,” and has a bovine motif on it.

Weekend Reads: “The Story Keeper”

The Story Keeper by Lisa Wingate

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When New York acquisitions editor Jennia Gibbs finds a manuscript on her desk, it shouldn’t be too surprising … except that the postmark on the envelope is 20 years old, and it’s clearly from the Slush Mountain pile that no one is supposed to touch. She’s immediately pulled into the story of Rand and Sarra, which takes place in the Appalachian Mountains where Jen grew up.

Stylistically, the work reminds her of reclusive author Evan Hall, so Jen’s boss decides to send her to Appalachia, where Hall lives, to find out whether he wrote the partial manuscript that so intrigues both of them.

I was pulled into the tale immediately. Jen has basically escaped from a strict religious cult where her sisters still live, and she has to deal with their constant requests for financial assistance. On top of that, more chapters of the intriguing manuscript start showing up at the cabin where Jen is staying … even as she tries to get in touch with Hall.

This is one of the finest works of literary fiction I’ve ever read. It’s classified as inspirational, but it is not preachy. It’s a loving and lovely book filled with believable characters, modern-day challenges, and beautiful scenery. Highly recommended.

View all my reviews

Proposed Book Banning Bill in Missouri Could Imprison Librarians – PEN America

“Every reader and writer in the country should be horrified, absolutely horrified, at this bill,” said PEN America’s Tager. “The fact that a librarian could actually be imprisoned under this act for following his or her conscience and refusing to block minors from access to a book, that tells you all you need to know about the suitability of this act within a democratic society.”

via Proposed Book Banning Bill in Missouri Could Imprison Librarians – PEN America

20/20 Memphis Fund Raiser

Hi, everyone. I wanted to take a moment to share information about a fundraiser for a worthy organization and cause. As you know, the greater Memphis area is near and dear to my heart. I spent some time there researching what eventually became It Happened in Memphis and Hard-Boiled Blues.

Well, there is an organization there called 20/20 Memphis, whose goal is to help obtain surgical eye care for low income/indigent patients at imminent risk for blindness. I mentioned in a previous post that the greater Memphis area has the highest poverty rate in the nation, so this is a quite a worthy cause.

Right now, in conjunction with 901Tix, 20/20 Memphis is holding a fundraiser. If you send $20.20 via the link, or by check to the address shown, you will get two vinyl car window clings that show you’re a supporter of this important cause.

Please click here: 2020 Memphis Sight Saver.

Thanks for your consideration,