I’m reeling from the loss of one of my mentors, a profound influence in all I have done with stories, writing and music. Paula Underwood, the woman who wrote down The Walking People, was introduced to me by Jeanne Slobod. My life has been forever altered by participating in an educational program called Past is Prologue. Paula has visited my classes at Schreiner, led a freshman orientation program called The Hero’s Journey, led me in a retreat at Spirit House in Marin County, and taught me many important life truths. She is on another journey now, and my heart reflects on the richness of her many gifts, gifts she shared with a huge family across the world. I’m blessed to be in that family.

I attended the December 3 concert at the Municipal Auditorium. A large group of area musicians joined together to share music with the community, inviting the community to donate toys and food. A CD is also available, thanks to Greg Forest and The Music Office. Tom Prasado Rao, a Kerrville Folk Festival favorite, joined the group before playing for a private party in town. We heard his unusual version of “Joy To The World,” and a clever song, “Chrismas in the Ashram.” His parents are from India, and he brings an interesting perspective to this season, blending traditions from the two cultures.

Part of the Problem harmonized through some classic Westerns, Snuffy Jackson emcee’d the event, with Jeff Davis reading off the long list of new sponsors. Seems everyone in the community joined in for this good cause. I remember truck loads of toys from last year’s concert.

So much to do, so little time. Our mantra during this season. As the semester winds down (or up), I find myself pulled many different directions for music. The strongest pull is often my own wood stove at the house—you know, with two cats and a dog. Or two cats in the yard? Now I have three cats, a third little female kitten has joined us. Spider is holding her own with the big white males.

Texas Public Radio has sent out an announcement, saying, “From the Top:  Boston’s Public Radio Show Seeking Young Musicians For Kerrville Performance.”  This weekly hour-long show is heard at 10:00 a.m. Saturdays on TPR stations KTXI 90.1 and KPAC 88.3 FM.

Young classical musicians, ages 9-18 who have not graduated from high school, are eligible to apply for a From the Top audition. The program welcomes solo performers on all instruments. Instrumental or vocal ensembles with no more than six performers are also welcome. Call 617-437-0707 for applications. In order to be considered for the Kerrville show, set march 2 at Schreiner University, applications must be received by December 31, 2000.

Yes, this program will be taped on the Schreiner Campus, and the community will be invited to attend.

FLASH: Sara Hickman has donated a signed guitar (Arlo Guthrie and others), and it will be listed on E-Bay through December 13. Call Wolfmueller’s Books and Records for information on placing a bid. Proceeds benefit the Hill Country Youth Ranch.

And finally, I attended a beautiful Christmas party last week, a gift of love from Bill and Carol Arnold. They showcased Tom Prasado-Rao for a group of guest who had all brought food and a toy to donate. After thanking Rod Kennedy for introducing this singer/songwriter to the area, standing in front of a bank of flickering candles, Bill and Carol acknowledged the power of love during this Christmas season. I’m glad I got to hear Tom’s beautiful songs in this setting.

Free Leonard (December 10 is a rally in New York to call for his release.) and down the road. 

eMail Kathleen:  kat@maverickbbs.com
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