IAT NEWSLETTER
October 2001
Dedicated in loving memory to the spirit of our teacher
and friend....John Denver
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"IT'S ABOUT TIME WE BEGIN IT,
TO TURN THE WORLD AROUND . . . "
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ORGANIZATION INFORMATION:
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Co-Founder/Former President - Marcelle Orswell
Co-Founder and Secretary -- Theresa Shea (Tree1A@aol.com)
Co-Founder/Webpage Designer-Sandy Clark (tybrenn@mediaone.net)
Co-Presidents -- Ann Schnitz (aerie01@sprynet.com)
and
Mary Ledford (eagleshorses@yahoo.com)
Web Site -- -- http://people.ne.mediaone.net/tybrenn/iat/
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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
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Dear Friends,
Hard to believe that four years have come and gone since we first learned that we
had lost our beloved John Denver. As Iím sure many of you can relate, there are times
when it still feels like yesterday, when sudden moments of grief seem every bit as
sharp as they were on that awful day in 1997 and during the months that followed.
It was for that reason especially that I was reluctant to go back to Aspen this year.
I had attended the first gathering in 1998, and at that time, it felt like making
a pilgrimage. I had never been to the "Holy Land" before and because it
was only the first anniversary, the emotions were still very raw. There was hardly
a time that I wasnít in tears during the whole weekend. But as days turned to months
turned to years, I turned my grief into purpose. I became the person who now writes
to you in this space every month, and I devoted my energies to furthering Johnís
legacy, in whatever form that could take. Yet, I didnít know what effect being back
in the Rockies, being around so many "JD people" would have. Would I find
myself lost again in those feelings of despair and agony that I had worked so hard
to put behind me?
Well folks, the answer is no. And the greatest reason probably has to do with the
John Denver Memorial Peace Cloth. How extraordinary to see the Cloth flying proudly
in the breeze under the aiki tent at Windstar! And during my time in Aspen, I felt
the excitement coming from all of you to be with the Cloth. I wish I could count
the number of times I heard, "Thatís my piece!" Personally, while that
is so gratifying to me and all of us on the board of directors, I don't want to downplay
how proud you should be of your accomplishment. The Peace Cloth would not exist without
all of you. The Peace Cloth IS you.
So let me take this opportunity again to thank each and every one of you who donated
cloth or sewed and dreamed and created the Peace Cloth. For, not only is it a living
legacy of John Denverís time on this earth. It is also a message from all of us to
the future: "Our song will not be failed".
My heart to yours,
Ann
PS -- It was lovely to meet so many of you in Aspen! And hold on tightly, gang, this
month's issue is a biggun!
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A LETTER FROM MARY
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Here are some of my memories of Aspen:
"Let This Be A Voice" - Auction 2001
We once again held our annual auction at the Mountain Chalet on October 13. We had
a wonderful attendance
and had to actually turn some people away. The total amount raised was $3,400 which
was split between Windstar and the Disaster Relief Fund through the American Red
Cross. We were honored to be able to present the Windstar portion of the proceeds
to Ron at the Open House on Sunday. He was thrilled to receive it. The check for
the American Red Cross was donated in the name of Windstar in memory of John.
We also had a slide show of the Greenland Climb which was also shown at the Windstar
Open House. We thank
Javana Richardson and her friends for this wonderful addition.
A special feature of our event was the video at the end of the auction depicting
the events of 9/11 with John's beautiful song "Rhymes & Reasons." For
those of you who did not see the video, I will try to make that
available.
We would like to thank all our performers: Mack Bailey, Joe Devlin, Mark Cormican,
Frank DeLaMarre, Julie McClain, Ken Covington and Stan Milam for donating their wonderful
talents. We also thank all the volunteers whose help was instrumental in allowing
the auction to run smoothly and without incident. And most importantly, we thank
everyone for their gracious donations.
We are already starting to formulate plans for next year. As it will be the 5th anniversary,
we hope to
have a special celebration. So stay tuned!!!
Peace-Mary (eagleshorses@yahoo.com) &
Pam
(pamela.beasley@airmail.net)
Wheeler Rehearsal - 10/11/2001
I was fortunate to be able to attend the rehearsal at the Wheeler on Thursday night.
All the performers worked tirelessly to fine-tune their performances and of course
it showed. And it wasn't without the antics of our number one "ham bone"
... Michito Sanchez! He had us laughing all during the rehearsal You could tell they
were all truly having a wonderful time and enjoying every minute of it. I got some
wonderful photos which I will try and get scanned (I think a scanner will be my Christmas
present to myself!).
Peace-Mary
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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November 3, 2001 -- Lancaster County Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup,
November 3, 2001 -- John Adams Benefit Concert for the Rocketship Earth Foundation,
Georgetown, TX
November 3, 2001 -- The Stapenhorsts in Concert, Altadena, CA
(My -- Nov 3 is a busy day!!)
November 9, 2001 -- Music From the Mountains Benefit Concert, Annapolis, MD
November 11, 2001 -- Berks County Adopt-A-Highway Cleanup, Reading, PA
November 24, 2001 -- 3rd Annual Evening of Campfire Songs Featuring the Music of
John Denver, Doylestown, PA
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SEE DETAILS ON CALENDAR EVENTS IN NEWSLETTER
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QUOTE OF THE MONTH
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The Art of Peace is medicine for a sick world. There is evil and disorder in the
world because people have forgotten that all things emanate from one source. Return
to that source and leave behind all self-centered thoughts, petty desires, and anger.
Those who are possessed by nothing possess everything.
-- Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), the founder of Aikido
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FUNDRAISERS
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CYBER IDEA COOKBOOK
OK gang -- to date, we've had *TWO* orders for this year's
fundraiser. Not so good, considering there are close to 400 of you out there! If
you would like to see a sample of it, go to:
http://people.ne.mediaone.net/tybrenn/iat/ideasample.html (and linked from the IAT
News page).
BUT....this is going to have to be "Last Call" -- so please have a look
and buy a book!
****************
They're here! Thanks to the terrific work of our friend Richard Holmes, the 2001
Cyber Idea Cookbook is now available. Each book is $5 and will be sent in the form
of an attached PDF file (or Word file, if you prefer). A printable form is available
at our website -- just click on the tab at the left marked "Fundraisers".
And as a special treat, our two previous cyber cookbooks are also available again
for those who never got one the first time or would like another one. These are also
$5 each. All proceeds go to The Hunger Project.
Send a check for $5 per book, made out to Ann Schnitz, to:
It's About Time c/o Ann Schnitz
P.O. Box 483
Lionville, PA 19353
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LETTERS
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From: Lynn Finoro <lfinoro@ovc.uoguelph.ca>
Hello everyone,
I just returned from my honeymoon, spent relaxing and enjoying life and love on a
cruise to Hawaii. My husband and I had the incredible opportunity to visit the coast
of Lanai where hundreds of spinner dolphins like to hang out. The excursion was offered
by a great group of young conservationists who truly love the sea and all the life
that inhabits it. What a joy for us inlanders to see these special creatures so close
up! Our small craft was slowed so that the dolphins could swim with us and we were
able to get some wonderful pictures.
Even though this wasn't a "John Denver Memorial" event, I remembered him
and his love of the earth and all its inhabitants. I just wish more people thought
the way he did. In my own mind, I could hear John singing
Calypso and saying "Far out!"
I'm afraid I don't remember the name of the conservation society that took us on
this journey, but they were wonderful educators (from Maui).
Take care everyone,
Lynn Sorbara
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*****
From: Pat F. <Trvlnhiker@aol.com>
We were in Kansas City over the weekend, the place we were living when we first fell
in love with John's
music, that took us back to much happier place in time. I do wish it could have been
Aspen though.
I was just turning on the radio to the Easy Listening Channel here in St. Louis on
Wednesday and the broadcaster was just finishing up a tribute to John. He must have
played one of John's songs and was saying that it was four years ago that the Memorial
Service was held in Aurora. What a bittersweet feeling. Sweet to hear John's name
on the radio and know his song had just been played and bitter because of the feeling
of despair knowing he's gone.
Peace,
Pat
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From: Jennifer Hunter <jenden1099@yahoo.com>
This was my first taste of Aspen in October and it was so filled with wonderful experiences
that words are not enough to express my feelings.
I stopped in Georgetown on my way there to see my friend Doris. When I left Aspen,
I again stopped to see Doris and gave her a little eagle wearing a JD T shirt. She
loved it. It was fate that I would meet new friends who I'd only known through E
mail at the JD sanctuary in Aspen. There, amongst the words etched on the boulders,
I looked for John's face in the stones. I walked to the river to refill a water container
for a bouquet that had fallen over and gently replaced it there.
The Tribute Concert at the Wheeler brought back so many good times and tears for
all those years that I'd looked forward to John's concerts. It was a real treat to
meet the performers after the show whom I'd admired for years and to belong in the
moment; like being a part of the larger family. Mack Bailey asked me if this tribute
was meaningful and I told him YES- that it gave me a sense of closure for John's
loss and gave me something to do with all those
feelings that had been inside for the last 4 years. When John died, I thought I'd
never feel that magic that happened at his concerts again. I believe John was there
with us those nights at the concerts; I felt it. Mack's publicist took my picture
with him. Many of the musicians said John was there.
There was always a warm familiar face you'd seen earlier somewhere that week including
Kermit who'd made a special appearance at the campfire and the singalong on the last
night. There was the Peace Cloth with it's multicolors; a blending of our lives and
stories interwoven with each other and John's vision. I was excited to find my part
of it with the lace left over from my wedding dress and see how it fit into the whole.
John's brother, Ron seemed to really enjoy posing for pictures with the cloth and
everyone there including myself and my husband who'd met at a JD concert. I'm thankful
for the warmth and sharing of the Deutschendorf family and the spiritual flight of
4 white doves into the clear endless blue sky. It was a nice surprise after a lovely
Snowmass Sunday service that evolved into sunshine and friendship.
It seemed the music was everywhere it the gatherings, the late night singalongs and
on the wind... Ron Rich was standing in the field at Windstar singing to the mountains;
his blond hair blowing in the breeze. I learned something
new about "The Gift You Are" from John Adams. It had come from the experience
of telling someone else just
how much of a gift they are in your life. It was the song that was sung at our wedding
as we left the altar arm in arm and our Pastor had us do just that before we were
married. I say thank you to John for his music that shaped my life and gave me the
choices I needed when I was deciding who I wanted to be. In my other journeys on
this trip, I was blessed with the company of many elk, deer, bighorns and yes, a
bald eagle climbing the wind and circling up to heaven.
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From: Annalisa Berns <aberns@hotmail.com>
My Mom and I met in Denver and drove to Aspen for the festivities. We really enjoyed
ourselves every minute we were there. I am sure that plenty of people will provide
details that we all enjoy reading about, but I thought that I would contribute a
couple of thoughts.
The highlight of the trip for me was the Saturday night concert. The audience and
performers were particularly enthusiastic. The music was perfect (because it was
John's!) and I sang every song and clapped my hands so much that they were sore.
Being in Aspen, I also enjoyed just being in the beautiful autumn air, which I do
not get living in San Diego. What took this trip to the top was the wonderful John
Denver fans. They were great! I had the pleasure of talking to so many people from
all over the world who love John and enjoy his music. I even met three other Mother-Daughter
teams enjoying John's music.
Overall it was a delightful trip. I am already looking forward to next year!
Annalisa Berns
San Diego, CA
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From: Terbear <terbear@vfr.net>
I recently was asked to create a "Community Altar" for the Children's Art
Gallery of Roseville, CA in honor of Dia de los Muertos (Indo-Hispanic tradition
... day of the dead). Anyway, in it I included a large book which included the names
of all those lost or missing in the 9/11 tragedies. On the front of the book, I put
portions of the lyrics of Rhymes and Reasons ... "Though the city starts to
crumble and the towers fall around us, the sun is slowly fading and it's colder than
the sea ... by the hand and by the heart they will comfort you and me, in their innocence
and trusting they will teach us to be free ..." along with pictures of children
holding hands dancing, etc. Then I dedicated a section of the book to traditional
names that people name their children in Afghanistan (males and females) and included
quotes from "Falling Leaves the Refugees" ... "Oh sing for every mother's
child ... etc."
The show opened Friday evening and people were very moved by the book and found the
quotes to be very fitting. I was glad that John's poetic words could give voice and
perhaps a little hope amidst the tragedies -- and also be read by people who probably
wouldn't otherwise hear his music.
Terri in CA
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EVENTS REVIEWS
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ASPEN 2001
From: Kathy Lill <denver@southwind.net>
This year in Aspen, like the past three years, was an unforgettable experience! Meeting
up with old friends and making new friends is always a highlight of this trip to
this quaint little town in the Rocky Mountains. I thought I'd just touch on a few
special moments that I experienced while attending the events....and I believe I
was able to attend all events this year!
The first special moment came on Friday night at the campfire. We were able to attend
for a short while before heading back for the Wheeler concert. Harold Simpson explained
about the reading of a letter from a couple in Australia that we were about to hear
on tape. They were having their own memorial moment of silence for John at the same
time we were gathered around the campfire in Colorado. We each held a lit candle
for John. It was a very emotional moment and not a dry eye to be found. Then we heard
Harold's letter that they were listening to in Australia. I felt so connected with
that experience! I wish all of you could have heard it! <see below>
The first Wheeler concert on Friday night brought a surprise to the entire audience
with Chris Nole's piano solo of "For You." The lights were down and one
spot light shown on the piano. We just thought it was a beautiful solo of that gorgeous
song......and then!!!......John started singing with the piano. The audience gasped
and you could have sworn John was on that stage singing to us! What a beautiful memory!
I spoke to Chris following the concert and told him how special that was and he said
they had just decided to do it at the Friday rehearsal and wasn't intending to include
it in the Sat. and Sun. concerts. Well, I told him he must do it all three nights
because it was so touching! His mom, Cathy, was standing beside me and agreed.......so
Chris performed it all three nights!
The memorial service at the Snowmass Chapel on Sunday morning was very special as
usual. John Adams sang John's "Healing Time" and I couldn't help but think
what a perfect song for this critical time in our nation. John's music is even more
meaningful now!
Ken Roberts had a surprise for us as we all gathered in the memorial grove following
the service. He spoke of John and how special he was and said, "this is for
you John".......at that moment four white doves were released and took flight
above us! The amazing thing was that three of the doves flew one way and one split
and flew the other way as in the 'missing man' formation of an aircraft. It was another
emotional moment for all!
I have many special memories of this year's tribute week and I'll leave you with
this one! After the John Adams concert on Monday night, we were walking back to our
hotel and two men standing in front of the "Mother Lode" restaurant asked
how the concert was. One of them was Mike Fitzpatrick (he took care of John's guitars
while on tour) and he said Kris O'Connor was inside and we should go in and say hi.
I didn't want to bother KO, so we at first declined and started to walk on. Then,
I changed my mind and thought this was a perfect opportunity to thank Kris for all
the work he's done on the Wheeler concert. We turned around and went in to talk to
him. He was sitting at the bar with a friend and I walked up and introduced myself.....I
had emailed him a few days prior to going to Aspen. First, I thanked him for releasing
the new "Christmas In Concert" CD and told him how special that was to
all of us! As we talked, KO became very emotional and couldn't hold back tears. It
was another special memory I'll not soon forget!
We learned there will be another live concert of John's released after the first
of the year! FAR OUT!!
I already miss my friends in Aspen and am looking forward to 2002! Hope you all get
a chance to experience this very special place!
Peace
Kathy
**Here's the letter that Kathy mentioned above, that was read at the Campfire**:
To our friends in the USA and New Zealand, we are gathered at the Grampians National
Park here in Victoria, Australia on a property that looks out onto mountains and
forests, I do not think we could have chosen a more fitting place to hold our first
gathering. We have just planted a tree in memory of John and to mark this our first
celebration of John's music and life, we have also planted four more trees in memory
and tribute to those who have been touched by the tragic events of September 11.
We want you all to know that at this moment we are all one in spirit and we all feel
each others presence. We all pray for peace on this earth and hope that John's vision
of one world, living in harmony will one day come true. We are all brothers and sisters
and along with the wildlife, forests, mountains, rivers and the stars, we make this
earth a very special place.
So let's continue together in getting John's messages of love and peace out here
through his songs and through extending our hands out to those we meet.
We know you will enjoy your campfire and celebrations, as we will enjoy ours, we
send you our love and thoughts and hope one day some of us can be there with you
and some of you can be down under here with us.
Peace, love and be safe,
Your friends from the Higher Ground group in Australia,
© Mark Capper 2001
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*****
From: Linda Wolverton <lindaw@mindspring.com>
The letter from Australians Mark and Julie Clapper sang out a wonderful tribute from
our Australian JD sisters and brothers! I just returned from Aspen and that experience
of the JD Campfire where this loving letter was read by Harold Simpson...and there
was not a dry eye present!! The letter was recorded by Harold, as he knew that he
couldn't make it through the reading in one piece. That experience was unbelievably
moving for all of us, with such a wonderful feeling of being 'connected' in ONE WORLD!!
MANY folks from Canada, Germany, Japan, and Great Britain were present, as well as
from a vast number of our own states.
A moment of "silence" is always observed on October 12 at 6:27 PM, Mountain
Time (5:27 PM Pacific Time), at the JD Campfire in Maroon Bells to honor John and
his passing. "Kermit" stood on the side of the road to point us in the
right direction for the Campfire site as we drove up into the Maroon Bells Park.
Several inches of fresh snow
sparkled on the ground and throughout the mountains as the sun set across the Rockies...what
a glorious and FAR OUT site to be "one with the earth"! Candles flickered
in the wind as John's voice sang out to call us together, and we huddled around the
campfire to be joined "heart to heart." Harold played his own recorded
voice reading the Australian letter, as well as the recording of his own letter that
was to be read at the same time in Australia. That was one of the most touching experiences
I have known and shared with this wonderful JD family!!
Earlier that morning, about 50 to 60 of us (BOTH men and women!) dressed in our "World
Family of John Denver Singers" shirts and drove to the Assisted Living Center
in Aspen. Armed with guitars, a flute, a homemade "tub bass" and various
'shakers', we did our best to honor John's music to entertain these lovely people.
Many of them sang with us, others clapped, and all seemed happy to see us! A CD player
as well as a DVD player were donated to the ALC in John's memory, with John's CD's
and videos to accompany them!! This was another great way to spend honoring John's
memory and work. Others gathered near Glenwood Springs to clean a stretch of the
highway near there, and many had worked in the JD Sanctuary on Thursday to 'clean
it up' for the "Celebration Weekend."
Other events included the Peace Cloth Concert and auction on Friday afternoon and
"Let This Be a Voice" Concert, luncheon, and auction on Saturday. Great
entertainers performed at both of these concerts. At the Saturday event, "The
Greenland Expedition Slide Show" was presented with the glorious pictures of
their climb in Greenland. Remember, this group of scientists and JD fans climbed
to the highest point in the northernmost mountain range in the Arctic region of the
Earth...and they planted a USA flag as well as a flag from Colorado! They had the
special blessings of the Colorado governor and the Deutschendorf family, and they
are awaiting the decision of the officials from Greenland to name the John Denver
Peak! This was another great JD program, and all of the money from "Let This
Be a Voice" will go to Windstar and the Red Cross Relief Fund.
Later, many of us scooted off to the Tower Restaurant in Snowmass to enjoy another
wonderful meal with Mike Shore serving. Mike still proudly displayed John's gorgeous
photos all over the restaurant that he and Diane now own on their own. They still
miss their former partner and buddy...as do we all! The Wheeler concerts were another
highlight for those attending....where we were certainly surprised to hear JOHN'S
voice opening the program with "Autograph," introducing part of the band--from
old days, and singing the finale, "This Old Guitar."
One last highlight for me before I had to make an early departure was the Grottos
'spontaneous' concert that was held later on Saturday night. During the evening's
songfest by the McCrains, Frank DeLaMarre, and Ron Rich, we had a wonderful interlude
from John's band! Music was performed by none other than Chris Nole, Pete Huttlinger,
and Richie Gajate-Garcia....three of the band members who worked with JD for his
last four to eight years. They really 'cut loose' and played some great jazz, honky-tonk,
rock 'n roll (Beatles!), and CRAZY stuff!!! Then, Pete played and sang his favorite
"JD song"..."Boy From the Country"! "Dancin' Denny Brooks"
dropped in and sang another 'crazy' song..."Avocado"...which he would add
to a concert when JD had to leave the stage for a "potty break"!! What
a complete HOOT this was! Pete and Chris both said that they loved John's music and
loved being there for us 'fans', but they also appreciated the opportunity to just
"cut loose" and have some total FUN with us....and boy, did they ever have
fun!! What a great final highlight!
The wonderful Memorial Service at Snowmass Chapel was my final event, as I was "leavin'
on a jet plane" at 1:00 PM. John's Uncle Abe participated in the service and
is a wonderful story teller. His wife Sammie, along with Uncle Dave and his wife,
plus Erma and her precious sister "Bubbles" were all in attendance. This
is a lovely service that is continued in the Memorial Garden with a rededication
to the many who are honored there, along with John.
After a very short trip to Aspen, I'm exhausted yet re-invigorated. Again, I feel
inspired to carry on the message and the work of this wonderful musician, humanitarian,
and environmentalist. I only gain a new respect and admiration for John Denver each
time I participate in these World Family events. Hopefully, you ALL can share in
one of these "celebrations" of John's life to continue to feel the inspiration
to "do what you can do" to make the world a better place!
My heart to yours~
Linda W
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*****
PACIFIC GROVE 2001
From Deb <PixieDmyr@aol.com>:
Last weekend's tribute activities in Pacific Grove were memorable - people had a
chance to get caught up with old friends, meet new friends, and join together in
remembering John Denver's life and work. We know that there were
a few people who wanted to be there, but couldn't, and I want you all to know you
were missed.
On Friday evening, about 40-45 people met at John Denver Beach for the candlelight
vigil. Lisa Gygax, Hochima Treppa and Diane Landry provided live music, and while
we were not able to have a Long EZ flyover, we *did* have a flock of seagulls fly
over, just at the moment of silence!
The weather was gorgeous, the beach was peaceful, and the winds were calm, so that
candles stayed lit for the entire memorial. It was a special day, in memory of John's
life and work. Channel 46 covered the event, and the reporter even stayed after her
live feed to sing along, and remember John with the rest of us. The 11:00pm news
did a lovely story about John Denver's fans remembering him, 4 years after his death.
It was very upbeat, and positive, in contrast with the other stories in the news
that day.
The concert and presentation on Saturday was a huge success. First up was Kerry Zallar,
who did a terrific comedy/music routine featuring impressions and impersonations
of people who worked with (or knew, or knew of) John Denver, including Bill Clinton,
Jimmy Carter, Louis Armstrong, Michael McDonald, Peter Cetera, Rocky and Bullwinkle
(yes, it's the same Bullwinkle you're thinking of, but maybe not the same Rocky...)
and more. Many
celebrities did their versions of some of John Denver's songs, including a special
appearance by Kermit the Frog singing "Rocky Mountain High."
George Schumer, founder of The Singing Skies Foundation, did a talk on the spirituality
of John Denver's music, with the help of Hochima Treppa and Connie Poquette, who
sang along with George to illustrate particular lyrics.
Following the talk, George presented Singing Skies awards to the following people:
Special Achievement Awards were given to Pat Hough, Jim Curry, Erma Deutschendorf,
Christine Smith and Debra Chilton, while a Lifetime Achievement Award was given to
Emily Parris of Kansas City, MO, in recognition of her work on the Rocky Mountain
High Newsletter.
During intermission, Kerry raffled off the items which had been donated by Judy Therrien,
Margie Hoff, Valerie Nestrick, Connie Poquette, Connie Willens, Daniel Danbom and
Quicksilver Photography, Sherrill Schoepe and
others. Items ranged from eagle keyrings, to dreamcatchers, to photographs of John,
to albums, cassettes, CDs, and concert posters. The special item of the night was
a copy of "Alfie the Christmas Tree," donated by Starr Swindt, which was
the object of a silent auction over the evening.
Following the raffle and intermission, George and his friends, Doug Cook, Lisa Gygax,
Hochima Treppa, Diane Landry, Shannon Collins, Dave Tyler, and Amanda, joined in
a big concert/singalong that lasted about 2 hours.
During the evening, a panel from the John Denver Memorial Peace Cloth was on display,
and pieces of fabric and fabric pens were available so people could make their own
patches to add to the project.
All proceeds from the evening's activities benefited Friends of the Monarchs in Pacific
Grove, Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Carmel, and The Windstar Foundation. Between the
concert proceeds, raffle tickets and sweatshirt
sales, we were able to raise $900.00 to split equally between the three groups! Checks
were mailed out this weekend.
Many thanks to John Denver's fans and friends for their extraordinary generosity
during this event!
Sunday's beach cleanup was also hugely successful, collecting about 20 gallons of
garbage from off the beach and the rocks. The cleanup was held at high tide, which
restricted access along some parts of the ocean front walk along Ocean View Blvd.,
but we were still able to clean up the walkways, and the higher parts of the rock
walls.
The Peace Cloth panel was also on display in Lovers Point Park, and again fabric
and fabric pens were available for people to make patches of their own. Many people
who were out in the park that day stopped by to look at the cloth, and then wanted
to talk about John Denver and his work. There was a picnic and singalong, with Dave
Singletary, Hochima Treppa and George Schumer providing guitar accompaniment. Dave
told us a little bit about Pete Huttlinger's John Denver fingerstyle guitar video,
and proceeded to demonstrate songs he'd just learned from Pete!
Channel 8 Salinas was there in the Park that morning, taking pictures of the Peace
Cloth and people gathering for the beach cleanup - if anyone saw that news report,
I'd love to know what they actually said!
Ro Vaccaro of the Friends of the Monarchs told us the story of the Monarchs, their
migration to Pacific Grove from Canada, and their mating ritual. She answered a lot
of questions people had about how the butterflies know where
they're going, and how they manage to find the milkweed they need to breed. And while
we were in the park, we saw several Monarchs heading for their winter home in the
Butterfly Grove!
There were fewer people at the Sunday candlelight vigil, and the winds had picked
up a bit. But while the winds might blow the candles out, nothing could extinguish
the flame in each heart, there to celebrate John Denver's music, life, and memory.
Many thanks to all who helped put the event on, and to all who participated in one
way or another, either in person, or in their hearts wherever they happened to find
themselves. Neither time nor space separated us, really - we were all there in spirit,
together, remembering John.
*****
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CELEBRATIONS FROM AROUND THE WORLD
AUSTRALIA
From: Janette E Frawley <jfrawley@bigpond.com>
The inaugural Australian JD Celebration Weekend was held on the weekend of the 12th
ñ 14 October, 2001, near Hallís Gap in Victoria. The Grampians is an area of rugged
mountains and spectacular waterfalls. There is also an abundance of birdlife, kangaroos
and other native animals. This was the perfect place for our first JD Celebration
Weekend. The magnificent surroundings only enhanced what was to prove to be a most
successful weekend.
The weekend was attended by 22 people from New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria,
and was organised by Mark and Julie Capper. Mark and Julie had been in Aspen last
year in 2000. The idea for the Australian celebration was to get together with other
John Denver fans from across Australia, and sing Johnís songs around a campfire.
The weekend started on Friday evening, with introductions, watching some videos,
and singing songs. There were two guitarists, and the rest of came armed with song
books and our voices.
The formal part of the weekend started at 9:30am on Saturday. We came together as
a group to plant six trees. The first was planted for us ñ the attendees of the weekend.
The next four were planted to honour those innocent people who died on September
11th. The last tree was planted in Johnís honour. A plaque was also erected to commemorate
the life of John. The Garden Song was played as all six trees were planted. Each
were ëtempered with prayer and songí.
At precisely 10:27am, one minuteís silence was observed, followed by the reading
of emails from Harold Simpson in Aspen, and from a group in New Zealand, reading
of the Poem, ëSpirit in the Skiesí by Alistair Wilson (see below), followed by ëRocky
Mountain Highí. As it was early morning for us, our campfire celebration was scheduled
for that evening.
We came together again as a group for a BBQ in the late afternoon, after exploring
the surrounding area. Unfortunately, it had started to rain earlier in the evening,
and steadily got heavier. The campfire had been built (in a fire bucket), but unfortunately
we were not able to sit around it. The bucket was duly picked up, placed outside
the door of Mark and Julieís cabin, where we decided to gather around their open
fire. It was dusk at this time, and the kangaroos that were seen in the distance
for most of the day came really close to us to investigate.
Our open fire celebration lasted well into the night. Although the campfire was outside
the door in the pouring rain, it remained alight the entire evening.
Twenty-two strangers, most meeting for the first time on that weekend, became firm
and fast friends in the space of 48 hours. Next year, in 2002, we are planning to
travel to the Barrington Ranges in New South Wales. The plan is to hold this October
celebration in Johnís honour each year in a different state of Australia. Each year
a tree (native to the area) will also be planted in Johnís name.
Janette Frawley (Melbourne Australia)
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Our Spirit In The Skies.
written by Alistair Wilson
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From right across this country we call home,
So far and wide we're spread
We're all happy to take the time to be here,
And see what lies ahead
We've all come to The Grampians.
Although we've never really met
The only contact we've had til now,
Is by phone or the Internet.
Invited to the mountains,
To gather here as one,
For reasons only we can share,
As campfire songs are sung.
In celebration of a wonderful life,
Taken far too soon.
Left only with the memory of a man,
His Songs, melody and tune.
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And we all shall unite as one,
With others so far away,
And share in a moments silence,
On a mid October day.
While we may not be in Colorado,
Or Aspen in the Fall.
We will remember in our hearts,
The way he touched us all.
So we will plant a tree of remembrance,
And lay a plaque in his name.
To mark this day forever,
In the minds of those who came.
And somewhere circling above us all,
A watchful Eagle flies.
A symbol of remembrance,
Our Spirit In The Skies.
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Copyright 2001
Alistair Wilson
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*****
ENGLAND
From: John Atherton <johnatherton@cwctv.net>
Hi Ann,
We had a Friends of John Denver gathering at a Village Hall in Waltn.on.the.Hill
in Staffs. yesterday which was fantastic. It was fantastic at the end how 60 of us
(who had raised about $1400) stood in a circle holding hands joining in with John
singing Wings That Fly Us Home!!! It really was fantastic.
Cheers and Best wishes, John
(My guess is, this event was fantastic -- LOL, AS)
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*****
NEW ZEALAND
From: Susan Leaver <susanleaver@yahoo.com>
"Returning - Coming Home Event"
Introducing the legacy of John Denver to the people of the central North Island of
New Zealand - the event was held 13-14 October at the Taupo-nui-a-tia College Marae
-representing the tribal home of the New Zealand native Maori tribal people.
SATURDAY 13 OCTOBER
Susan Leaver, co-ordinator of the International John Denver Memorial Foundation,
its philosophy, and purpose, aided by video clips from the "Wildlife Concert,"
the songs being "Amazon" and "Calypso."
Said one of the Maori people present "that John Denver must be a Maori, he's
just like us, he's concerned about the trees, the rivers, the children.
FIRST GUEST SPEAKER was Reverend Graeme Johnson, District President of the New Thought
Alliance. He spoke of "coming home" to ourselves, and encouraged us to
making an even greater commitment to being our best selves.
SECOND GUEST SPEAKER was Nola Edmonds, Maori Warden, and investigator for Parentline
Incorporated. She
shared with much passion the commitment of her group to track down, eradicate child
abuse, and end the apathy that exists towards this social ill. She was a lady with
a fire in her heart and a light in her eyes. At the end of her presentation those
present threw money her way to aid the cause. Her impassioned plea was "take
the time to care!!"
THIRD GUEST SPEAKER was Meriana Taputu, Maori language teacher of the college. She
and her family members have a vision of breaking the cycle of generations of unemployment
in their tribe by creating a 10 hour
walk through the wilderness, to revive the spirit of those who participate.
FOURTH SPEAKER was Ang Jolly, executive director of the Tongariro mountain natural
history society. Ang shared on how her organisation relies heavily on volunteers
and she is heartened by many people approaching her, 'Wanting to make the difference."
Our musical videos for the evening were "John Denver in concert in Sydney, Australia,
1977" and "Montana Christmas skies."
SUNDAY 14 October, 2001
The day began early with an outdoor memorial service for John on the edge of Lake
Taupo. This lake is the largest in the southern hemisphere. In the background, on
a clear day are the mountains of Ruapehu, and Tongariro.Snow capped, they are really
awe-inspiring. No wonder John chose to take private trips to this part of the world.
For this service, people traveled at 4.30am, from a place named Wanganui, southwest
of here. To set the scene we began by listening to "In a Faraway Land.",
followed by a sharing of what John and his message meant to us. A new friend, from
the Taupo district confessed his wife had died of cancer last December and John's
music helped him accept and deal with his own feelings of grief. One of our new friends
from Wanganui, a lass under 25, shared that in a hard time three years ago, John's
music really helped her through it.
Next, with "Wandering Soul" playing we expressed our feelings for John
by creating a collage of flowers, and some participants were blessed by gently throwing
the flowers one by one into the lake.
To conclude our memorial time we listened to the address of Doctor Roger Teel of
the Mile-Hi Church of Religious Science, Denver, Colorado, at a special tribute event
in 1998.
THE GUEST SPEAKER for the morning was Mr. Chris Feeman of "Future Pace"
Tauranga (two hours northeast of Taupo). Chris is a professional Life Coach and had
experience in this field in Winter park, Colorado. Chris's topic was "Making
the difference."
He expressed a deep compassion for people and their struggles, and explained how
that the role of the Life Coach can aid a persons spiritual growth. Chris is a man
with a passion for "connection." He repeatedly aired, without realising
a phrase from the movie "Oh God" - "we are meant to here for each
other, not against each other." He finished his address by quoting "The
Eagle and the Hawk: "All that we can be, not what we are."
To finish the morning we watched "Let This Be a Voice", the acknowledgement
to John's commitment to the
environment.
This weekend people came to us saying "I love him, I'm so glad he is being represented
- asking how they can
acquire his music and videos. It's our campaign they become freely available in this
country -- in the meantime we import from mainly the States.
The International John Denver Memorial Foundation will continue to be "A voice"
for the entire legacy of
John Denver.
Susan Leaver
International John Denver Memorial Foundation
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*****
A MUSICAL TRIBUTE TO JOHN DENVER, AUSTIN, TX
From: Elaine Byrne <will_try_to_carry_on@yahoo.com>
Since Brian and I couldn't make it to Aspen this year, we were eagerly looking forward
to having the Musical
Tribute to John Denver come to us here in Austin, Texas.
Kenn Roberts was convinced to bring the show to the "Third Coast Music Capitol"
in support of the Texas Chapter for Cystic Fibrosis. The venue was a new facility,
appropriately named One World Theater. "Technologically advanced and 'green-built,'
the theatre is softly nestled in the hills of West Austin. Resembling a Tuscan villa...the
very intimate setting elegantly accommodates the performer's artistry and a rapt
audience of only 300...." It's stated objective is "to foster an understanding
of people and cultures different from our own." John would have been very
pleased!
The evening was a huge success, beginning with cocktails and a wonderful buffet dinner.
(I indulged
in three, yes, three, margaritas!) It was a great opportunity to visit with old and
new JD friends.
The concert featured the same Aspen musicians, plus the addition of Texas recording
artist Tracy Byrd. Tracy grew up on John's music, he told us, and proceeded to prove
it by singing three numbers just as John recorded them: MATTHEW, BACK HOME AGAIN,
and GRANDMA'S FEATHER BED. He also joined the other vocalists on a couple of group
songs and performed one song from his new album.
Chris Nole's improvisation accompaniment to John's singing of FOR YOU created a total
rapt silence in the theater. Great job, Chris! Pete's solos on Tracy's one album
song sounded like he'd played it many times, not for the first time just two hours
before the concert! Pete is so fantastically talented!
The intimate setting made each of us feel like the concert was a private performance!
Performing to a packed house, the band seemed to enjoy themselves, too, and we hope
to have them back again next year.
The only things Brian and I missed were the cool weather and mountain majesty of
the Aspen area. And, of course, heading over to the Limelight to play more JD songs
with friends.
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COMING EVENTS
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ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY CLEANUP
From: Pat Liddic <liddic@lancnews.infi.net>
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 3: Trash clean up of PA Friends, Lancaster highway. Again, we
would be starting at 2:00 and heading somewhere to eat and chat afterwards. Please
email me so that I can add your name to the list of willing helpers!
*****
From: JoLynn Long at jdspirit@cox-internet.com
JOHN ADAMS IN CONCERT
The "Place To Be" is at the Palace Theatre in Georgetown, Texas on November
3, 2001 at 7:30 p.m. to hear John Adams. Tickets are $40.00 per person and can be
purchased at the Palace Theatre. Toll free number is 877-834-1318
Adams was living in his native Netherlands in the early 70's, when Denver came to
Europe to tour behind his hit, "Take Me Home, Country Roads."
"I fell in love with that music right away," said Adams. "The atmosphere
ñ it grabbed me, the whole atmosphere. It was folk music, and in the Netherlands,
we weren't familiar with it." "I started playing and never stopped and
I've done that for 26 years. There's a purpose to everything, and I think my purpose
was to perform his music."
Adams went to see Denver perform numerous times in Europe, and even met the late
singer on several occasions. When Adams left the Netherlands on March 18, 2000, he
gave his first concert in the United States in San Gabriel Park, Georgetown, Texas,
to the pleasure of many fans.
Adams' voice is uncannily similar to Denver's, or at least Denver's voice laced with
a slight Dutch accent. Which makes perfect sense, "I never had to work on sounding
like him," said Adams, "because I learned to sing by playing with his records.
My voice developed like his."
Adams wants to remember Denver, and share the singer's spirit with others, by playing
the music. Adams has recorded two CDs of Denver's music; the most recent, "Unexpected
Pieces," which also includes the title track, the first song written and recorded
by Adams.
The concert is to benefit the Rocketship Earth Foundation, which honors the work
of John Denver by producing "Challenge Day" programs aimed at creating
safe, healthy and happy school communities. Challenge Day, is a powerful, interactive,
day-long workshop designed to build a sense of community, self-esteem, and understanding
among school students. For more information visit the Rocketship Earth Website: www.rocketshipearth.org
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____
A personal message from JoLynn:
This is the URL for information about the concert.
http://www.john-denver.org/events/adams.asp
I have arranged reduced room rates at the Holiday Inn Express. Regular rate is $99.
Cost for people coming in for the concert will be $69. Be sure and get in touch with
me if you plan on coming so I can make sure you get the $30 tickets. There is no
reserved seating but I will be blocking off the first 3 rows for all the JD people.
Sure would love to fill the place with JD people. The concert will be wonderful!
Anyone that attended John's concert in Aspen will tell you that he just gets better
and better.
Please try and come join us for a great night of John Denver Music. Donna and Terry
Lipman are doing such great work with Rocketship Earth Foundation. Believe me the
money is going to do a lot of good
Hope to see lots of you on the 3rd.
Peace is my prayer,
JoLynn
*****
STAPENHORSTS IN CONCERT, NOVEMBER 3, 2001:
Steve and Ellen Stapenhorst are performing again, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage,
2029 N. Lake, Altadena, CA (626-398-7917 for reservations) - Saturday, November 3,
8pm. Tickets are $8.00. Their special guest at this performance is B.C. Cameron.
*****
From: Ginger (denver9j@aol.com)
MUSIC FROM THE MOUNTAINS BENEFIT CONCERT
This concert is to be held on November 9, 2001 at the Maryland Hall For the Creative
Arts in Annapolis, MD., courtesy of the M.U.S.E. Foundation. Performers include members
of John's band, John Sommers, Jim Salestrom, Mack Bailey and Hard Travelers. Ticket
prices are $32.50 for reserve seating and $85 for VIP tickets. A VIP
ticket entitles you to a pre-show reception with food from "The Great Chefs
of Maryland", special surprises and of course the "best seats." Each
VIP tickets qualifies for a $40 charitable contribution. The pre-show reception begins
at 6 PM, the concert at 8PM.
For event information or to order tickets, call 410-849-3220. To order tickets on
line go to: https://spinrx.com/mtrinc/tickets.htm.
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*****
From: Judith Gabriel <judithgabriel@msn.com>
Our next Berks County, PA cleanup, previously scheduled for Sun, November 4 has been
postponed to SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11. All those interested should email me.
Also, is there anyone interested in helping on Sunday, Dec. 30? I thought it would
be nice if anyone is interested to go up to Hawk Mt. and walk around and sit on John's
benches, sing a little, meditate a little or just walk and then go have dinner at
the Roman Delight and I'll order a cake for John's birthday and we can celebrate
that and the birth of a new year also. If you are interested, maybe you could put
it on your calendar early and let me know ASAP so I can tell the highway people we
intend to honor our four times a year contract and look forward to being with each
other, Hawk Mt., and John's spirit.
Finally, check my web site for future updates on what I am doing as far as A Tribute
to John Denver: The Man and His Music 2002. It is a separate page on my business
web site. The address is www.judithgabriel.com.
*****
3RD ANNUAL SATURDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING EVENING OF CAMPFIRE SONGS FEATURING THE MUSIC
OF JOHN DENVER & CHRISTMAS ALBUM PARTY
CHARLIE ZAHM plus Tad Marks on fiddle, Steve Hobson on lead guitar and Mark Sullivan
on percussion.
Saturday November 24, 2001 7:30 PM at the Salem United Church of Christ in Doylestown,
PA. Tickets are $8 at
the door kids under 12 are free). Light refreshments will be served. Please let us
know youíre coming so
we may have a count for snacks.
CHARLIE has traveled all over the world with the "Up with People" group
(part of the 1986 Super Bowl half time show), opened for "The Black Watch"
last year at the Spectrum in Philadelphia, and has twelve albums. He primarily sings
Celtic (Irish & Scottish) music. Obviously Charlie is an avid John Denver fan!
This is his fourth "tribute" to JD at Doylestown. He also performed at
both "The Man & His Music" tributes held at Hawk Mountain. Besides
friendly Pennsylvania, Charlie has been featured in over a dozen JD tributes including
places like California, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC.
Charlie promises a wonderful sing-along evening of music featuring about 1/3 JD songs,
Christmas songs from his MARVELOUS twelfth album, "The White Snows of Winter"
plus original material & other folk favorites. It promises to be a truly magical
evening!
Charlieís bringing his guitar AND banjo! As an extra special treat, he will be joined
by Tad Marks on fiddle, Steve Hobson on lead guitar, and Mark Sullivan on percussion!
This is the closest many of us will come to hearing Johnís music by a "full
live band!" Please join us! To RSVP or for directions, hotel, restaurant info,
etc. email pahough@aol.com
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FOR SALE
*********************************************************************
A LIMITED NUMBER OF T-SHIRTS AND BUMPER STICKERS STILL AVAILABLE
We have a limited number of our Aspen 2001 t-shirts with a full color photo of John
on the front (large, x-large, xx-large, xxx-large) and bumper stickers available.
Please contact Pam (pamela.beasley@airmail.net)
for details.
COUNTRY ROADS FOLK FESTIVAL TRIBUTE TO JOHN DENVER VIDEO AVAILABLE (offered with
the permission of the performers)
This is a video from the Folk Festival held this past July in West Virginia. It features
Bill Danoff, Mack Bailey, Doris Justis and Sean McGhee (Side by Side) as they pay
tribute to John. It comes with a beautiful color cover with photos from the event.
It also includes Mack Bailey's tribute to John at the Ashton Methodist Church this
past May. The cost will be a minimum of $10 donation to Windstar. If you are interested,
please e-mail me for details.
Mary (eagleshorses@yahoo.com)
*****
Reminder -- Arctic Dance: The Mardy Murie Story is still available!
Arctic Dance is now available for purchase as a 75 minute VHS home video! To order,
call 1-800-345-9556.
To order from outside the U.S., call 1-804-649-8611. The purchase price is $29.00
plus $6.25 for shipping
and handling. Please note that Arctic Dance videos are for private, home use only.
For information on public
screenings, library copies, or special showings with the producers, contact C.E.R.I.
at
boxonemoose@onewest.net.
**********
Videos are still available from the April 21 2001 Earth Day event, held at the Ram's
Head Tavern in Annapolis, MD. All proceeds will go to the Windstar Foundation. Contact
Mary Ledford (eagleshorses@yahoo.com)
for more information.
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POETRY
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From: Greg Worthey <greg@worthey.com>
Hello... It was just over a month ago... stark and horrific tragedy. Perhaps we are
all still quietly struggling for the bigger picture. Today is the four year anniversary
of a lesser-known tragedy, and I was inspired to give memorial. I dedicate this poem
to everyone who has ever been pained by grievous loss or other cruel betrayals of
life...
Greg
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The reasons for a death, and a birth equal too,
In some unplanned moment, anotherís passing through.
The joy of birth, well smaller circles feel the joy,
But with the passing of a star, few but God know the scattered ploy.
The secret love in death is the changes that it brings,
the memories that pass like chords and other subtle things.
It teaches us donít hold too tight, youíll see so much more,
Because the feelings and the living, must breathe at the core.
Birthís do touch us sweet, but in death we look to ëLord,
Like beginnings set the stage, but finale strikes the chord.
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Every moment of our lives, our actions just a breath,
Our greatest inhale birth, our lasting exhale death.
The people that we touch, be it laughter be it tears,
The difference that we make, giving love fighting fears,
The orchestra is God, our job ourselves to tune,
And look inside the pain, for the beauty found in ruin.
Life grows ever faster amid the ordered chaos that we make,
But listen back between the lines--it was God there that spake.
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Four years ago today, a star unbeknownst to me,
Gave final streak across the sky, and rested in the sea.
John Denver was his name and many miss his songs,
But please donít count his death among the many sordid wrongs.
He wrote songs of deepest meaning, and sang and played his part,
In Light he reached to touch us, and gave with all his heart.
I was blind before he passed; I knew just a song or two,
But past the starkness of his death, I stopped and listened to
The truth of which he spoke, and the love that he gave,
And all the things that live eternal, and smile sweet upon his grave.
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ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS
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October 12, 2001
BUSH PROMOTES ENERGY BILL AS SECURITY ISSUE
By KATHARINE Q. SEELYE
WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 ó President Bush urged the Senate today to pass an energy bill
that would allow drilling for oil in an Alaskan wildlife refuge, casting the issue
as a matter of national security.
The Bush administration has maintained that drilling in Alaska would help the nation
reduce its reliance on foreign oil, and Republicans in Congress have supported him.
Democrats have opposed drilling as a sop to the oil industry and the Teamsters, who
see it as a jobs program, at the expense of the environment.
Though the Democrats control the Senate, they are worried that they do not have the
votes to prevent the drilling, and they suspended action yesterday on the energy
bill. Mr. Bush's comments today, as the nation continued to bomb Afghanistan, were
a clear effort to revive it.
"I urge the Senate to listen to the will of the senators and move a bill,"
the president told reporters after a cabinet meeting in the White House. "The
less dependent we are on foreign sources of crude oil, the more secure we are at
home."
Congress has been at pains to show its support for the president since the Sept.
11 terrorist attacks, but the energy bill is a reminder of the deep partisan divisions
below the surface.
Senator Jeff Bingaman, the New Mexico Democrat who is chairman of the Energy and
Natural Resources Committee, said on Tuesday night that the Democrats were suspending
discussion of the bill because they wanted to "avoid quarrelsome, divisive votes
in committee." Mr. Bingaman also said that energy matters were beginning to
spill over into other committees and that he was trying to prevent a jurisdictional
dispute.
Senator Frank H. Murkowski, Republican of Alaska, said on Wednesday that Democrats
did not want to bring up the bill because they knew they would lose and were trying
to deprive Mr. Bush of a victory.
Two Democrats on the committee ó Senators Mary L. Landrieu of Louisiana and Daniel
K. Akaka of Hawaii ó have signaled their support for drilling, and drilling opponents
acknowledged that a vote now could be risky. Ms. Landrieu, who is up for re-election
next year, is from an oil- producing state. Mr. Akaka has aligned himself with native
tribes in Alaska who support the drilling as a boost to their economy.
Mr. Bingaman's move essentially gives Senator Tom Daschle of South Dakota, the majority
leader, the power to bypass committees and shape the bill on his own. Democratic
advisers said he was working to produce an energy bill before Congress adjourns later
this month or early next but that it would almost certainly not authorize drilling
in the Alaska refuge.
The House passed the energy bill this summer, with the encouragement of the Teamsters
union, which is looking at the thousands of jobs drilling would create. Republicans
deployed Representative Tom DeLay of Texas, the majority whip, to try to muster public
support for the drilling, and the president seemed eager to join in.
After hearing progress reports from his cabinet on the war on terrorism, Mr. Bush
said, unprompted, that he wanted Congress to grant him the authority to act quickly
on trade matters and to pass an energy bill.
"There was a good energy bill passed out of the House of Representatives,"
he said in a rare detour from war-related matters since Sept. 11. "And the reason
it passed is because members of both parties understand an energy bill is not only
good for jobs, it's important for our national security to have a good energy policy."
He added: "And I urge the Senate to listen to the will of the senators and move
a bill, move a bill that will help Americans find work and also make it easier for
all of us around this table to protect the security of the country."
The United States imports half the oil it uses. Critics of drilling in Alaska argue
that, by the government's own estimate, opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
would not yield oil for at least seven years and then would yield enough for only
140 days. Republicans argue that the drilling would take place in only 1.5 million
acres of the 19 million-acre refuge and would provide thousands of jobs at a time
when unemployment is rising.
Phil Clapp, president of the National Environmental Trust, which opposes drilling
in the Alaskan refuge, said Mr. Bush's policy made little sense in light of the conflict.
"Even if you drill in Alaska," Mr. Clapp said, "the Department of
Energy projects a 25 percent to 30 percent increase in U.S. oil imports from the
Middle East and the Caspian Sea over the next 20 years. His energy policy would make
us more dependent on the countries that are likely to be the most unstable as a result
of the military action in Afghanistan."
(There's an epilogue to this story. Fearful that a coalition of Republicans and conservative
Democrats on the Energy Committee would approve a bill authorizing drilling in ANWR,
Tom Daschle took the bill away from the committee with the promise that he would
write a more balanced measures and present it to the Senate in the coming months
-- AS)
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NEWSLETTER NEWS
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If you would like to submit articles, news items, stories, poetry, or any other pertinent
information to IT'S ABOUT TIME, please e-mail any of the IAT staff. The submission
deadline for the November edition is November 19, 2001. Please be sure to include
any contact information so that members can e-mail or snail-mail for further details.
*********************************************************************
The content of this newsletter is entirely at the discretion of the "It's About
Time" staff. Contributions, as always, are welcomed, although inclusion is not
guaranteed.
*********************************************************************
". . . IT'S ABOUT TIME WE START TO LIVE IT,
THE FAMILY OF MAN,
IT'S ABOUT TIME
AND IT'S ABOUT CHANGES . . .
AND IT'S ABOUT TIME."
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