Today I received sad news that a dear member of the hobo family “Caught the Westbound.” Musician Fred Starner, also known as “Banjo Fred,” brought many a happy tune to hobo gatherings.
Banjo Fred, like others with a quest to give the American hobo a home in U.S. history, told their stories through song. Ten years ago, I set out to research the American hobo, interviewing the rail-riding men and women of the Great Depression to the present day railriders. I, too, learned that there is so much more to their stories–often found in the music the hobos compose and perform, the poems and stories they write, the art and carvings they craft. Banjo Fred understood that, and used his music to keep alive the stories of the American Hobo. We shall miss you, Fred.
I have finally resurfaced after relinquishing my hobo queen crown, and months of wonderful, beautiful family events. Added to that was the fun of our five-week houseguest and hobo brother, FROG. Life is never dull in the De Young home! Most recently, I became an Area Governor in Toastmasters. From Queen to Governor, hmmm, is that considered a lateral move? Truth be told, I have been a member of Toastmasters International for ten years, which enables me to present myself in a royal manner–most of the time. Both positions led, and continue to lead me down unique pathways. As the saying goes, “Once a queen always a queen,” I make use of every rare moment life offers. I recently dubbed Immediate Past District 53 Governor, Karin von Kaenel, as an honorary hobo. Her moniker is “Countess Butterfly” due to her background as a statistician, the logo of butterflies and accompanying motto of “Be the Change You Want to See” she used to inspire all Toastmasters in our district. She also received a walking stick signed by King Stretch and myself, seen in the accompanying photo. Ciao for now, I am off to the next adventure.
