Spring 2001

In this issue

1. Greetings!
   by Murphy Hicks Henry An update from Murphy on her daughter's life in Nashville and an anecdote about the ongoing surprise some people exhibit at seeing a woman play banjo.
2. Sally Jones and the Sidewinders:
   Just One of Those Trips by Sally Jones and Murphy Hicks Henry A firsthand account from Sally Jones detailing a disastrous, financially draining road trip plagued by vehicle breakdowns and mishaps.
3. This is the Big Time
   by Casey Henry A companion piece from Casey Henry describing the physically uncomfortable and unglamorous reality of riding overnight in a packed vehicle after a gig.
4. WIBLETS
   her Plumbing Shouldn't Get in the Way by Opal Clifton A lengthy, supportive letter from reader Opal Clifton arguing that a new generation of female musicians, armed with talent and a new attitude, should have the same opportunities as men.
5. WIBLETS
   Not Enough Women on Bluegrass Radio by Fran Larkin A letter from Fran Larkin arguing that the underrepresentation of women on bluegrass radio shows directly impacts their recognition in industry awards.
   Fran's Letter to a DJ by Fran Larkin A copy of a letter sent to a radio DJ, using chart data to make a quantitative argument for increasing airplay for female artists.
   Grandmothers of Bluegrass by Glenda Pender A short letter proposing that the mothers of bluegrass founders like Bill Monroe should be considered the "grandmothers of bluegrass."
6. Sally Ann Forrester: Forgotten Foremother
   by Murphy Hicks Henry Murphy's introduction to the next part of her serialized Master's thesis
   High School by Murphy Hicks Henry A chapter detailing Wilene Russell's (Sally Ann's) musical and religious life at a Baptist college in Missouri.
   Enter Howard Forrester by Murphy Hicks Henry A chapter introducing fiddler Howard "Howdy" Forrester and his early career before meeting Wilene.
   Saddle Mountain Roundup by Murphy Hicks Henry A chapter describing the large barn dance show where Wilene Russell, as the "Little Orphan Girl," began her professional career.
   Little Orphan Girl by Murphy Hicks Henry A section analyzing the cowgirl stage persona adopted by Wilene Russell and its place in country music imagery.
   Letters From Howard by Murphy Hicks Henry A chapter featuring personal letters from Howard Forrester to Wilene Russell, detailing his early career struggles and their courtship.
7. Sally Ann Forrester Scholarship
   by Murphy Hicks Henry An announcement of a new scholarship fund named for Sally Ann Forrester to support young women pursuing bluegrass.

Photos

• Cody Kilby, Kristin Scott Benson, Mickey Harris, Sally Jones, page 2. Photographer unknown.
• Sally Jones, page 3. Photographer unknown.
• Howard “Howdy” Forrester, Joe Forrester, Wilene "Sally Ann" Forrester, page 9. Photographer unknown.
• Howard “Howdy” Forrester, Joe Forrester, Wilene "Sally Ann" Forrester, page 10. Photographer unknown.