Perhaps more than any other year for me, the opening of 2020 feels a bit surreal. Part of it emits a hint of sci-fi, a genre I have sometimes found frightening. That all being said, and ignoring all things environmental and political for the immediate moment, it felt appropriate today to share a few upcoming author events and happenings. 

First – TA-DA! I will release a new non-fiction work on February 14 – Valentine’s Day for most, or Oregon’s Birthday to those tracking such details. Last year I was fortunate enough to share stories from My Music Man at the Capitol on Oregon’s 2019 birthday. (You can still watch the video if you missed it.) As I pondered the release of this next work, given its relevance to past and present Oregon, I first imagined releasing it by Christmas – though that felt rushed – when it struck me as a much more appropriate and sensible date: February 14, 2020. Hang tight and you’ll learn a bit more (and see the cover) in a future blog, although I’ll tempt you now with the title. Then, Now and In-Between: Place, memories and loss in Oregon. It will only be available in e-book because it contains so many high resolution photos, making print costs excessive.

While I wait for that to drop, here are a few upcoming events that may be of interest to you:

Ooligan Press Write to Publish Conference, Sat., Jan. 11, 2020 at Portland State University. I am excited to be on my first author panel (as compared to something related to occupational safety and health!): this one will address the “author’s journey.” This conference looks to be informative and with a reasonable registration fee for those interested in publishing.

Is it Spring Yet? A multi-genre reading (8 authors, 5 minutes each), Sun., Feb. 23, 2020, 2-3 pm, Urbanite, Portland, OR. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: the best thing about exploring writing is being part of our local writing community and the new friends I’ve met along the way. Come listen to 8 short readings from authors representing different genres.

My Music Man stories and reading: Listen and Learn, Multnomah Athletic Club, March 10, 2020, 6:30 – 8 pm, Portland, OR. (Members and their guests only). I don’t have a lot to share at this point, but if you are a MAC member you might check out your recent newsletter or calendar for details. This will be a perfect chance for me to talk about how William Montgomery and others are said to have brought football to Portland….

Reading and signing, Saturday, March 14, 2020, 3:30-4:30 pm. La Tea Da Tea Room, Tillamook, OR. So maybe you’ve heard me talk before, but how fun to come to Tea in Tillamook! I’ll promise to share some things you haven’t heard before.

Whew. I’m tired now. Is tomorrow a holiday too? Cheers to 2020, with balloons of hope for peace, kindness and sensibility.