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Up To Date

The True History Of Cowboys, Getting Beyond Fossil Fuels, And The Volcano Explorer

Public Domain
Cowboys take a load off at the Bob Saloon, Miles City, Montana, in 1880.

They may be icons of the old west, but cowboys aren't just an American phenomenon. Today, we learn the long history of the horseback herdsmen, whose roots go back to Africa. Then, we discuss climate change and the complexities of reducing fossil fuel use with environmentalist Bill McKibben. Later, we ask Sam Cossman why on earth he climbs into active volcanoes and what he hopes to gain from doing so.

"Cowboy Mike" Grauer shares "The (True) History of Cowboys" at the Kansas City Public Library's Central Library on Thursday, October 5, at 6:30 p.m. To RSVP, visit KCLibrary.org.

Bill McKibben delivers a Cockefair Chair lecture at UMKC's Pierson Auditorium on Friday, October 6, at 6:30 p.m. Reserve your seat by going to Cockefair Chair website.

Sam Cossman discusses his journey into an active volcano at the Linda Hall Library on Wednesday, October 4, at 7 p.m. Visit LindaHall.org for more information.

When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.
As culture editor, I help you embrace what makes Kansas City fun and vibrant, whether it’s a championship sports franchise or a little-known wonder. I work with reporters to ensure KCUR stories on art, culture, and race fully reflect our diverse home so readers and listeners can take full advantage of what the metro has to offer. Email me at luke@kcur.org.