When Jarl Mohn, NPR’s new CEO, first mentioned that he planned to make a short trip across the U.S in a single-engine plane, dropping in on stations along the way, Wyoming Public Radio got on the list. We were warned that if selected, we would have to be ready immediately, and we would have to flexible just in case weather and flight logistics got in the way. In short, the plan needed to be quick, simple, and adjustable. No disappointment if it didn’t happen!
It happened on July 27. Joined by his friend and pilot, Michael Govan – Director of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art – Jarl landed in Laramie at 10:45 a.m., was driven to WPM in Knight Hall, where he met the staff and held a question/answer session, and was whisked away to Maggi and Nick Murdock’s renowned Loft for a quick lunch. In the meantime, Susan Moldenauer (who was fortunately free) gave Michael a quick peek at the UW Art Museum.
Jarl and Michael took off from the airport at about 3:15 p.m., to go to their next stop – Vermillion SD – where dinner awaited them at our colleague public radio station. It was the most unusual visit we had in a long time, and we loved it!