Cowboy poetry, a traditional American folk art rooted in oral storytelling from the 1870s, is experiencing a revival among a younger, more diverse generation in cities like Los Angeles, where new gatherings and workshops are helping preserve and adapt the art form for contemporary audiences.
Inspired by the real-life treasure hunt of Forrest Fenn, Kathleen Boland's novel 'Scavengers' explores the complex relationships between a mother and daughter as they search for a hidden treasure in the American West, revealing deeper themes of myth, control, and humility.
Kevin Costner unveils the trailer for "Horizon: An American Saga," the first of his planned four-part epic about the American West, which will have a dual theatrical release from Warner Bros. The film explores the triumphs and tragedies of the pre-and post-Civil War expansion and settlement of the American West, featuring an ensemble cast and focusing on the ideology of Manifest Destiny. Costner directed and co-wrote the script, expressing his passion for the project and the challenges faced in bringing it to life. He aims to offer a fresh perspective on the Western genre and hopes to create a meaningful cinematic experience for audiences.
The spread of Valley fever, a fungal infection caused by coccidioides, is increasing in the American West, and scientists believe that climate change is a major factor. The fungus thrives in dry soils and is carried by dust storms, which have become more intense and widespread due to the warming climate. Valley fever cases have quadrupled in the past two decades, and researchers warn that a larger area of the United States will become vulnerable to the disease in the coming decades. Efforts are underway to study the fungus's transmission and develop a vaccine, but the exact extent of its spread and impact remains uncertain.