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CALENDAR LISTING: “Gay in the Great War,” a dramatized reading from the World War I novel Flower of Iowa by author Lance Ringel with period music sung by Chuck Muckle. Tuesday, Nov. 17, Noon to 2:00 PM. Free admission. Open to LGBT Seniors and allies. Sponsored by Rainbow Seniors of Berkshire County, First Congregational Church, 906 Main Street, Williamstown, MA. Potluck lunch. Bring dish to share.
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WILLIAMSTOWN, MA — “Gay in the Great War,” a special performance combining a dramatic reading with authentic music from World War I will take place on Tuesday, November 17, at the First Congregational Church, 906 Main Street, Williamstown, MA. The lunchtime event, sponsored by Rainbow Seniors of Berkshire County, is from noon to 2:00 PM.
Lance Ringel, author of the acclaimed World War I saga Flower of Iowa, will perform dramatized excerpts from his book, joined by actor-singer Chuck Muckle. Mr. Muckle will also perform several songs made famous during The Great War, including “Over There” and “It’s A Long Way to Tipperary.”
A potluck luncheon begins at noon, followed by the 12:45 PM performance. Luncheon attendees are asked to bring a dish to share. Admission to this event is free. All LGBT seniors and their friends and allies are invited to attend. For more information about Rainbow Seniors, contact Ed at 413-441-6006 or ed@rainbowseniors.org.
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The sprawling historical novel Flower of Iowa takes place against the turbulent backdrop of World War I. In France during the final months of the war in 1918, young American Tommy Flowers is learning to be a good soldier in the trenches. At the same time, he attracts the attentions of Nicole Lacroix, a young French barmaid who in turn has won the heart of Tommy’s brash Australian sergeant Jamie Colbeck. Even as he tries to cope with this potential romantic triangle, Tommy steadily develops an unanticipated closeness with his best buddy, British soldier David Pearson. The two young men must navigate this unexpected but irresistible attraction, seeking out ways to stay in touch even as the war reaches a crescendo, drawing them apart. A tale of love and bravery in the midst of tragedy, Flower of Iowa showcases unforgettable characters, meticulous historic research and exhilarating storytelling.
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Ringel spent 21 years researching and writing this gripping novel, which was selected as a top summer read by The Advocate magazine. The prestigious Kirkus Reviews called this saga “[a]ccomplished, touching historical fiction” and “a compelling love story,” adding that “Ringel has created an overall appealing romance with memorable characters.” The book attained the #1 spot on the gay fiction best-seller list, and #2 on the historical fiction list, at Smashwords.com.
Rainbow Seniors of Berkshire County is a newly-founded organization that provides social and cultural opportunities for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender senior citizens and friends.
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ATTENTION MEDIA: For advance interviews with author Lance Ringel, please contact publicist Jay Blotcher at (845) 612-9837 or flower@publicimpactpr.com. Free downloads of the eBook Flower Of Iowa for reporter review are available upon media request.
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