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Susan Allen
Open Range evolved like a child, for years I wanted to produce a radio show that celebrates the components which make living out west unique. It’s infancy began with an adventure/ travel script, then a horse show, a rodeo report, pro–ag commentary and finally the American Rancher, all good ideas, programs and efforts. Yet each failed to fully encompass my passion for the West, it’s lore and lifestyle. Unlike other regions the Pacific Northwest is uniquely diverse, a fascinating cornucopia of crops and people; urbanites in Portland and Seattle that flock to wine and ski country in droves separated by mere hours from buckaroos that crave solicitude with cattle and horses under the hauntingly beautiful Steen’s Mountains. Like the weather that changes without warning in high country, as your host on Open Range, I too can be unpredictable.... I enjoy hunting and fishing but won’t tolerate animal cruelty, love rodeo, team roping, cowboy boots and bling, but can be brought to tears by a clean round of Olympic show jumping or the Kentucky Derby. I become up in arms when I hear about a pack of wolves ravaging livestock but I have also rescued and nurtured a coyote pup back to health. While I a
m passionate about keeping rivers, lakes and back country pristine, I won't tolerate the hypocrisy and tactics of environmental extremists. You might spot me buying organic produce at a farmers market but I will also remain a staunch “agtivist” for production agriculture and celebrate our ability to feed the world. At least two days a week of Open Range are dedicated toward equine topics not only because I care deeply about horses but because horses; whether they be the wild Kigers in Eastern Oregon, Thoroughbred crosses at our University polo clubs (WSU and OSU) or a working ranch horse near Idaho Falls are embedded deeply in our western culture and heritage. If the noble bald eagle I pass on my morning commute symbolizes a free nation, then the horse with it’s many disciplines; riding, roping, racing, running, jumping..... stands alone as a vestige of the diversity and spirit of the West.
I write my programs and columns from Cashmere Washington under the shadow of the breathtaking Enchantment Mountains . I am blessed to have a supportive husband, the horse of my dreams and the most uplifting and devoted assistant ...Cricket my sweet border collie....
Email me at sallen@aginfo.net I would love to be privy to your thoughts, comments and ideas for storys.
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