sign in sign up
<<
Home , Cowboy, Cowboy poetry

The mission of the Folklife Center is to use story and cultural expression to connect to the world.

501 Railroad St. Elko, NV 89801-3752 ELKO, PHOTOGRAPH O Y OETRY T E PO OY B COW PRESENTS CENTER FOLKLIFE WESTERN THE BY KURT MARKUS THE GATHERING 1

35

JANUARY 1

MARY GRIDLEY, GRIDLEY, MARY TH

NATIONAL 1987

28 POETRY GATHERING, ELKO, NEVADA ELKO, GATHERING, POETRY COWBOY – FEBRUARY 2 , 2019 ELKO, NEVADA 1 JANUARY 28 – FEBRUARY 2, 2019 National Gathering THE ORIGINAL COWBOY POETRY AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

The Gathering is turning 35! Featured Artists Since 1985, ranchfolk, rural denizens and aficionados of the American West have traveled to meet 3hattrio, Virgin, UT in remote Elko, Nevada. Here in Elko, they are captivated by poets and musicians whose verses Amy Hale Auker, Prescott, AZ speak of a life lived on the land. They listen, they learn, they kick up their heels and enjoy a week Mike Beck, Monterey, CA filled with entertainment, delight and laughter at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. Or, Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie, simply, “the Gathering.” Eunice, LA Known for its big-heartedness, the Gathering welcomes all! Come early in the week for hands-on John Doemyer, Lemon Cove, CA workshops and intimate evening performances. Stay through the later part of the week, when Joshua Dugat, Tuscaloosa, AL

things really ramp up with full days and nights of o‰erings. Learn about creative solutions to Maria Lisa Eastman, Hyattville, WY Jessica Brandi Lifland and current challenges in the rural West; listen to poems and songs from the finest Western Mary Flitner, Greybull, WY Ross Knox Deanna McCall wordsmiths; take in talks, exhibits, films, vendors and family shows exploring just about everything Jamie Fox & Alex Kusturok, Harlem, MT & St. Paul, AB, Canada Joel Nelson, Alpine, TX of interest to the ranching West... or simply dance the night away. Friends, old and new, await at Ryan & Hoss Fritz, Melville, SK, Canada Rodney Nelson, Almont, ND the historic Pioneer Saloon, located in the Western Folklife Center, the heart of it all. Dick Gibford, New Cuyama, CA Diane Peavey, Hailey, ID In honor of the Gathering’s 35th anniversary, we'll be revisiting our past and charting our course DW Groethe, Bainville, MT Shadd Piehl, , ND for the future. Come reminisce with us as we remember our roots and refine our routes forward! Andy Hedges, Lubbock, TX Vess Quinlan, Florence, CO Brenn Hill, Hooper, UT Halladay & Rob Quist, Kalispell, MT Poster photograph by Kurt Markus · Mary Gridley, 1987 Cowboy Poetry Gathering, Elko, Nevada Tish Hinojosa, Austin, TX Henry Real Bird, Garryowen, MT Poster design by Hans Teensma · impressinc.com · Brochure design by Designers for the Arts · designersforthearts.com Yvonne Hollenbeck, Clearfield, SD Brigid Reedy, Whitehall, MT Ross Knox, Sasabe, AZ Randy Rieman, Choteau, MT Ned LeDoux, Northeastern KS Jake Riley, Riverdale, NE Daron Little, Saratoga, WY Matt Robertson, Okotoks, AB, Canada Corb Lund, Southern AB, Canada Olivia Romo, Santa Fe, NM Carolyn Martin’s Swing Band, Trinity Seely, Cascade, MT Fort Wayne, IN Sean Sexton, Vero Beach, FL Sid Marty, Lundbreck, AB, Canada Sourdough Slim, Paradise, CA Deanna McCall, Timberon, NM Dave Stamey, Orange Cove, CA Gary McMahan, Bellvue, CO Gail Steiger, Prescott, AZ Waddie Mitchell, Twin Bridges, NV Colter Wall, Swift Current, SK, Canada Michael Martin Murphey, Walden, CO Paul Zarzyski, Great Falls, MT Jessica Brandi Lifland Get Your Questions Answered Here! What do I get with a Pass? ...... 3 How do I order tickets?...... 3, 10 – 11 What is there to do early in the week? ...... 4 – 8 What workshops can I participate in?...... 4 – 9, 12 – 15 What evening performances can I buy tickets to?...... 5 – 9, 12 – 16 When can I dance?...... 14 – 16 How do I get to Elko and where do I stay?...... 17 How do I become a Member so I can buy my tickets early?...... 18

First-Timer? Is it your first time at the Gathering? We have some hints for you! For the ultimate first-time experience:

»» Become a member of the Western Folklife Center. As a member, you can buy your tickets during members’ pre-sales when shows often sell out. You’ll also get a free ticket to a members’ show, and a members’ discount on a 3-Day Deluxe Pass. »» Choose the mainstage evening shows you want to see and buy your tickets. »» Sign up for a workshop and learn how to craft western gear, cook delicious food, learn a new dance step, write poetry and more. »» Don’t forget to buy a 3-Day Deluxe Pass for access to dozens of daytime poetry and music performances Thursday through Saturday. »» Visit the special exhibitions in the Wiegand Gallery. Photos on pages Jessica 2–3: Brandi Lifland

V 2 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG TicketsTicketS & P

What is the difference? Why should I buy a Pass? TICKETED SHOWS are the hottest performances at the A 3-Day Deluxe Pass or Single Day Pass gives you access to the Gathering and showcase combinations of poets, bands, singer- 90+ non-ticketed shows and events that take place Thursday through songwriters, and storytellers that you won’t see on the non-ticketed Saturday, which include: sessions . Some artists only perform on ticketed shows . To attend these »» Intimate poetry, music, and storytelling events shows, you must buy a ticket . See this year’s schedule starting on page 4. »» The keynote address NON-TICKETED SHOWS AND EVENTS take place »» Film screenings during the day Thursday through Saturday (January 31 – February 2) . »» Open mic sessions of music and poetry To enter the non-ticketed shows, you will need either a 3-Day Deluxe »» Lively discussions about the rural West and its future Pass ($60 for members from September 4 through October 3; $80 for The Deluxe Pass also comes with a commemorative pin . Single Day all beginning October 4) or a Single Day Pass ($30) . With over 90 Pass and Deluxe Pass holders receive a Gathering program book . non-ticketed shows to choose from, you’re sure to make good use of your Pass . See below for more details . The full schedule of daytime, non-ticketed events will be posted in January at nationalcowboypoetrygathering.org and on our app at sched.org . Non-ticketed shows are not listed in this brochure . Stay up-to-date on the full schedule as it unfolds by liking and following the Western Folklife Center on Facebook . When can I buy tickets and passes? Western Folklife Center members can purchase tickets one month before the general public, beginning at 9:00am Pacific time, Tuesday, September 4, 2018 . For information about membership, see page 18 . The general public can purchase tickets beginning at 9:00am Pacific time, Thursday, October 4, 2018 . THREE WAYS TO BUY: »» ONLINE . Visit nationalcowboypoetrygathering.org . Ticket Discounts and Special Offers »» BY PHONE . Call (775) 738-7508, or call toll-free from the U .S . at (888) 880-5885, 9:00am to 5:00pm Pacific time, Monday Are you a student? Are you under 35? Did you buy a ticket to an early- through Friday . week workshop? Are you bringing a friend (or friends) to the Gathering »» BY MAIL . Mail your order form (pages 10–11) to the Western for their first time? Are you a working cowboy or family? Folklife Center, 501 Railroad Street, Elko, NV 89801 . If you answered yes to any of these, there’s a special ticket discount or offer waiting for you! See details on the order form, pages 10 and 11 .

EARLY TICKET SALES FOR WESTERN FOLKLIFE CENTER MEMBERS Please remember! »» You need to join or renew your membership no later than Friday, August 31, 2018, in order to buy tickets online on September 4. »» You will need to know your membership level benefits (see page 18) at the time of purchase. »» We will send you a password enabling early access to the online ticketing system between September 4 and October 3.

35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 3 W SCHEDULE of T S & E

Come Early in the Week! Take full advantage of all the Gathering has to offer starting Monday. You’ll have more time and space to visit with friends, chat with the artists in the Pioneer Saloon, experience great evening shows of poetry and music, enjoy the exhibit gallery, or take a hands-on workshop in Western arts that is not available later in the week . If you participate in an early-week workshop, you can get a discount to an early-week show .

SUNDAY, JANUARY27 MONDAY, JANUARY28 WORKSHOPP WORKSHOPP Floral Design and Carving with Cary Schwarz Monday – Wednesday · 9:00am – 5:00pm · $400

Open new avenues of creativity and improve your floral carving designs in this three-day workshop geared toward the practicing craftsman . With decades of teaching experience, Cary’s hands-on, demo-laden approach will provide ways of making design a habit, with an eye toward saving time while elevating your work . Day one focuses on “how” and “what” to draw, using artistic elements of balance, ratio, variety, composition and negative space . Explore “gesture drawing,” building off Kimon Nicolaides’ 1938 book, The Natural Way to Draw (which will be mailed to you in December) . Days two and three focus

Kevin MartiniKevin Fuller on carving, swivel knife techniques and thoughtful tool selection . To help you stay the trail, Cary will email you a daily drawing assignment for 30 days after the class! Open to students of intermediate Rawhide Braiding experience and above . Veteran leatherworkers and sophomores alike Sunday – Wednesday · 9:00am – 5:00pm · $375 are sure to glean new information . Students must bring their own stamping tools, sketch pad, pencil, eraser, and an open mind! Students Create a 12-strand quirt in this four-day workshop with may choose to bring a small project of their own to work on . buckaroo and braider Doug Groves . A 2017 recipient of the Nevada Heritage Award, Doug makes rawhide reatas, quirts, and of great beauty and function . Doug learned braiding from peers in the bunkhouse and beyond, and now passes on these techniques for turning rawhide into fine gear . Assisted by his son Grant and master braider Charles Liesen, Doug will teach techniques for processing rawhide from hide harvest to finished string . This workshop is an interactive affair, with class alumnae also sharing methods and tips . The camaraderie and cooperative learning among fellow braiders of varied experience levels makes this a veritable celebration of rawhide! Open to beginning to intermediate experience levels .

V 4 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG Lifland Brandi Jessica STORY FORUM D TUESDAY, JANUARY29 SCHEDULE of T S & E Veterans Writers Project Ongoing, see Monday Schedule Monday – Saturday · 9:00am – 4:00pm · FREE Veterans Writers Project · Drop in anytime. Stay as long as you like. Spouses and family encouraged to participate. WORKSHOPP

Great crises often produce great writing . War is no exception . And while the historians and politicians write the history, a soldier’s version Cowboy Comics with is often found in poems, songs and stories . Soldiers’ spouses and loved ones also have their own stories to share . These stories need to be Marek Bennett told . The Veterans Writers Project, hosted by the Veterans Resource Tuesday · 9:00am–4:00pm Center at Great Basin College, provides a place to tell and refine Wednesday · 9:00am–12:00pm these stories with the help of other veterans and writers . Offering $175 expanded hours this year, Bill Jones, Vess Quinlan, David Richmond, and Ken and Betty Rodgers — along with Karen Lloyd of the Library Turn your favorite poem, song, story of Congress’ Veterans History Project (www.loc.gov/vets) — will host, or image into a dramatic, eye-catching encourage, and support veterans (and their loved ones) as they share comic! This fun, hands-on workshop their experiences . If you’re interested in learning more, just drop in or will show you how to use the basic contact the Veterans Resource Center at (775) 753-2346 for more cartooning language of lines, dots and information . Additional hours may be available throughout the week . shapes to create original artwork that grabs readers’ attention and immerses them in the gripping stories and settings of the American West . This two-day workshop will also explore how cartoonists gather feedback, edit their work and publish it for readers, culminating in a -made “mini” of Cowboy Poetry Comics Issue #1 to share with your pals back on the ranch . Bring your favorite poem, song lyrics, picture, or family story… or use a piece provided from the Western Folklife Center’s collections . Basic art supplies and a book by the artist are included . No artistic experience necessary — everyone can draw comics! Marek Bennett is the creator of several comics and graphic novels drawn from 19th century primary sources, including The Civil War Diary of Freeman Colby, LIVE FREE and DRAW! and selected poems of Rubén Darío . His website is www.MarekBennett.com .

WORKSHOPP Spit Cooking with John Lemich 9:00am – 12:00pm · $75 Jessica Brandi Lifland Brandi Jessica Trinity Seely John Lemich, owner of Machi’s Saloon & Grill in downtown Elko, learned from his father, grandfather and close family friends how SHOWC to cook large amounts of meat on a spit . John’s family originated in Croatia and immigrated to Tonopah, Nevada . His grandfather later Anchoring the Tradition moved to Ely to work in the mines . And John himself moved from G Three Bar Theater · 7:00 – 8:30pm · $20 Reno to Elko in his early 20s . Spit BBQ cooking has long been a Lemich family tradition; John embraced it at a young age seeing that Two penmasters who were born to the ranching life open the gate to a it was a great way to gather, tell a few stories, have a drink or two and week-long herd of words . The inimitable Waddie Mitchell, a Gathering feed everybody a delicious meal . He cooks for catering jobs and in founder, pairs perspectives with singer, songwriter and ranchwoman his backyard for holidays and gatherings . He has cooked whole , Trinity Seely . This evening promises a pairing of old and new, words lambs, , turkeys, and one time a 500-pound . This and music, songs and stories, and features their award-winning number class will show you from start to finish how to cook your own “bird on a “The Hand,” winner of the 2016 Award for Best Western Song . spit” at home . Learn how to season the meat, put it on the stick, start a Young local cowgirl and musician Marinna Mori makes a special guest fire for the BBQ and control the coals for even cooking . John will even appearance! share some of his favorite recipes for accompanying sides .

35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 5 W TUESDAY, JANUARY29 CONTINUED

WORKSHOPP Hearty Soups & Breads 1:00 – 4:00pm · $75

Whether you’re spooning dripping ladles for friends and family or enjoying on your own, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a hot bowl of soup . Paired with mouthwatering, fresh-from-the-oven bread, it’s sure to warm your body and your spirits . A certified professional cook and born-and-bred Nevadan, Sherry Legarza Black knows the importance of a home-cooked meal, whether she’s delivering one to Lifland Brandi Jessica a client or sharing one with her ranch-raised husband on their alfalfa Randy Rieman SHOWC farm in Fallon . Sherry will share techniques to develop these ultimate winter meals, full of richness, warmth and flavor . Enjoy taste-testing various soups, breads, green salad and wine — you won’t leave this Old Time Good Time workshop with an empty stomach or a cold soul! G Three Bar Theater · 7:00 – 8:30pm · $20

WORKSHOPP What could be better than an evening of favorite songs, tunes and classics from the cowboy poetry and old-time music canon? And The Perfect Pour what’s on the menu for this aural feast? Sourdough Slim shares new takes of old gems from his latest album; Jamie Fox and Alex Kusturok 3:00 – 4:30pm · $60 · Offered again on Wednesday bring their youthful spirit to Métis fiddle tunes; square dance caller and fiddlerAlex MacLeod and the Hobb Dye String Band (Harry Since the end of Prohibition, the DLC (historically the Clifton Club Liedstrand on fiddle, Cary Lung on mandolin, Cindy Liedstrand and Hotel) has been a gathering spot for ranchers and railroaders alike . on guitar) stop in from the local grange hall; Marek Bennett frails Join the knowledgeable staff from the DLC Gallery & the Gallery Bar westward-looking banjo tunes from the 1850s and 60s; and renowned for an afternoon of mixology . Learn tips and tricks to create your own reciter and horse trainer Randy Rieman tops it all off with classic stunning libations . Take some poetic license on a few classic cocktails poems and songs . and learn to make some of the DLC’s exclusive signature drinks . Sample cocktails, enjoy the atmosphere, and learn some of the history of this iconic building . Must be 21 and over . WEDNESDAY, JANUARY30

Veterans Writers Project · Ongoing, see Monday Schedule The Perfect Pour · 3:00 – 4:30pm · $60

WORKSHOPP Rope Halter Making 9:00am – 4:00pm · $110

Spend a day with haltermaker Kelly Pfeifer and return home with your own handmade halter complete with fiador and double overhand knots . Kelly has a lifetime of experience working with on throughout northeastern Nevada . She first learned how to make halters from a workshop taught by Ken Frazier at the 2008 National Cowboy Poetry Gathering . A decade later, she’s picked up more than a few skills of her own . In addition to being a master haltermaker, Kelly cowboys full time in the ranching community of Independence Valley,

Courtesy of Jamie Fox north of Elko . This workshop is open to all levels of experience . Jamie Fox V 6 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG TOURL WORKSHOPP A Day at the Ranch The Spirit of Place: 9:00am – 4:00pm · $175 includes lunch Writing Workshop Join Dan Lotspeich and his mother Leslie for a tour of the Lotspeich Family Farm with John Dofflemyer in Nevada’s Starr Valley . Operating from 9:00am–12:00pm · $40 the base of the Ruby Mountains, Dan follows in the footsteps of his grandfather, The unique places that shape, and often dictate, our livelihoods also businessman George Grock, a Prussian have distinctive feelings we’ve learned to recognize and write about . descendant lured west to Deeth, Nevada Adding human characteristics to certain aspects of a place, like the by the Homestead Act of 1862 . The trees, rocks, rivers and mountains, brings them alive in our poetry and family business prospered at this location, prose . Many cultures and native philosophies incorporate animism as serving settlers traveling by highway part of their worldview, attributing a spirit, a heart or a soul to some and rail . Responding to 21st-century of these subjects . In this workshop, we will attempt to find a sense challenges, the Lotspeich ranch has of spirituality that is unique to where we live, hopefully enriching the shifted to a locally-grown, locally-sold model, focusing on high-quality, depth and scope of our poetic expression . naturally-grown meat and vegetables — a shift that has ultimately been successful for them . Work up an appetite as you learn about WORKSHOPP the Lotspeich’s approach to ranching and then feast on Duane Jones’ dutch-oven meal in the Starr Valley Community Hall (fruit cobblers Peering Into the Mirror for dessert)! As always, Cowboy John regales you with stories during the bus ride, while trusty sidekick Janice Collett guides this year’s tour . at Your Fiercest Critic, Your Toughest Opponent with Paul Zarzyski 1:00 – 4:00pm · $40

In “The Pretty Good Book According To Zarzyski,” Poetry has nothing to do with “inspiration” and everything to do with blue-collar sweat, with “perspiration ”. Writer’s block, therefore, does not exist — laziness, maybe, but not writer’s block . Moreover, rarely is a first draft worthy of ars poetica distinction . The Poem, you see, approaches us and demands that we write It . We, therefore, do not rudely tell the Poem “go away and come back later ”. Nor do we dictate to the Poem when we’re finished with It . On the contrary, our mission as Poets is to relinquish all “control freak” status, to listen intently enough to hear the Poem suggesting to us that Its potential has been fulfilled to the best ofIts , WORKSHOPP and hopefully even our, ability . If you’re a writer/worker willing to stick with a hard-labor job beyond your exhaustion point in the midst of Street Tacos 95-degree heat or 50-below-zero wind chills, and stick with it until you get it done “right,” this visceral workshop might speak your lingo . 9:00am – 12:00pm · $75 Bring poems and a titanium chin capable of shaking off the heavy- For an energy-recharging snack in the desert heat, or an evening shots of brutally-honest critiques (yours, the fiercest of them sit-down with family on the patio, nothing beats the mouth-watering all) aimed at encouraging you to work more painstakingly on each and morsels that are street tacos . Meat stewed and seasoned to every syllable/word/line/passage/stanza — round after round after “re- perfection, balanced with hotter-by-the-day homemade salsa and vision” round . sparse but fresh toppers, all held together by two corn tortillas (for utility) . . this classic of roadside cuisine is deceptively “simple ”. Learn the ins and outs of preparing carnitas and carne asada and other sides with Valentina Ortiz . In this workshop, Valentina will show you We do not rudely tell the Poem el secreto de la salsa — the secret in the sauce, so to speak . Valentina “go away and come back later.” is not only known in the Elko area for her cooking, but as a dance instructor and director of the Elko Mexican Folkloric Ballet .

35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 7 W SHOWC Western Jukebox Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 7:00 – 8:30pm $40/$30/$25

Wednesday night’s high-energy concert showcases the wit, wisdom, and yodels of Gary McMahan, the King of the Cowboy Singers; the smooth, sultry tones of from Carolyn Martin and her Nashville-based band; and the get-up-outta-yer-seat Louisiana zydeco rhythms of Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie . Sure to keep you on your toes, just like the jukebox at your local watering hole, these artists draw on an eclectic catalog of tunes . There’s sure to be a selection for everyone!

THURSDAY, JANUARY31

Veterans Writers Project · Ongoing, see Monday Schedule

TALKI Courtesy of Carolyn Martin Carolyn Courtesy of Carolyn Martin Keynote Address Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 9:30 – 10:30am Free with 3-Day Deluxe or Day Pass WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30 This year’s celebratory keynote features founding director Hal CONTINUED Cannon’s personal journey into the fieldwork and exploration that brought an extraordinary cast of characters together to create the WORKSHOPP original Cowboy Poetry Gathering in 1985 . Filled with voices, images and transcendent moments from the Western Folklife Center’s Pizza from Scratch archive, Hal’s keynote is both about preserving tradition and about the quest to find truth and beauty in the creative voices of everyday 1:00 – 4:00pm · $75 people . Sponsored by Nevada Humanities and Great Basin College. Create your own personal pizza with Luc Gerber, head chef and owner of Elko’s family-owned downtown dining destination, Luciano’s . This Italian restaurant’s motto is “good times, good friends, good food” . . and that’s exactly what you’ll get in this workshop . Luc will show you how to craft all the fundamentals — dough, sauce and cheese . Learn the basics of transforming bread dough to pizza dough and tomatoes to pizza sauce . Then, get cheesy with Luc as he teaches you the art of hand-pulled mozzarella . You’ll taste the fruits of your labor, layered together as a classic cheese pie . Whether you’re hand-pulling pizza dough, mozzarella or milk from a cow’s udder, the devil is in the details . Luc, who apprenticed in and , will share his fine-grained culinary skill as he guides you through all the hands-on steps you need to know… except for milking the cow (everyone knows mozzarella comes from a buffalo! Don’t worry — we’ll milk them before you get here) .

Gary McMahan

V 8 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG Courtesy of Gary McMahan SHOWC -Slingers, Braggarts & Blowhards G Three Bar Theater · 6:00–7:30pm · $75/$35

The title says it all! Good-natured jabs, artful nonsense, boasts so good you’d be a fool not to believe them… it may be winter, but the hot air emanating from this bunch will keep you toasty . Henry Real Bird delivers an entertaining ride through Crow Country, joining up with classic poet Rodney Nelson, who’d tell a joke as soon as draw a breath . To top it all off, they’ll match wits withSourdough Slim, a true Western character . Watch out for this raucous crew . They come off as polite,

Charlie Ekburg Charlie but they’re just cowboyin’ around . Before you know it, you’ll be sucked Ryan Fritz in to an evening of bravado, balderdash and… well, you-know-what . SHOWC Best check your gullibility at the door . Members’ Show One: SHOWC Family Ties Chronicling Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 12:00 – 1:30pm Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 6:00 – 7:30pm $40/Free to members with ticket $40/$30/$25

An afternoon in celebration of families who have honed skills in It takes walking the walk to talk the talk — a keen eye and a discerning working together and playing together . Not always easy! Montana- ear to interpret the almost-unseen and frequently unappreciated based songwriters Rob and Halladay Quist have successful individual challenges, sorrows and joys of daily life . Poet Joshua Dugat draws performing careers but relish the opportunity to share the stage verses from his everyday exploits teaching, firefighting, ranching, together as father and daughter . No strangers to the Gathering, beekeeping and two-stepping . Ned LeDoux, heir to the LeDoux the Reedy family just gets better and better, currently featuring the family sound, lays down a record in music full of rural flavor and singing, guitar picking and fiddling ofBrigid Reedy, her brother Johnny touring know-how . Californian Dave Stamey documents the fine- and their father and mentor, John . Partners in the and on stage, grained nuances of Western life in his proliferate songwriting, while Gail Steiger and Amy Hale Auker deepen their ties through poetry, Trinity Seely logs life and miles from British Columbia to Montana . prose and song . Ryan Fritz and his son Hoss travel to Elko from their The performers on this show have beautifully caught the rhythms and ranch home in , Canada, where their music making cadences of Western life . strengthens family and community .

WORKSHOPP Square Dance 2:00 – 4:00pm · $25

Maybe you’ve heard stories about the “way-back, Western” days when families would travel all day, gathering for a square dance . They’d dance all night, eat an early breakfast, and ride home again to get back to their ranch chores . Do you have that kind of dedication? Stamina?! We won’t go all night, but this two-hour workshop will show you why square dancing was — and still is — a great activity for building up communities around the West . No experience necessary! Alex MacLeod, square dance caller and fiddler from , will teach you everything you need to know . And a live band will crank out tunes sure to inspire dancing as you cruise through the afternoon . After this workshop, you’ll be primed and ready for a square dance interlude at the Saturday Night Dance . Live music, fast-paced dancing — don’t miss it! Courtesy of Ned LeDoux Ned LeDoux 35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 9 W TICKETS GO ON SALE Tuesday, September 4, 2018, at 9:00am Pacific Time to Members and Thursday, October 4, 2018, at TicketsTicketS O F 9:00am Pacific Time to the General Public. Order tickets online at www.westernfolklife.org, by phone at (888) 880-5885 (toll free) or (775) 738-7508, or complete this form and mail it to the address at bottom right. Email questions to [email protected].

PASSES EVENING PERFORMANCES & SPECIAL EVENTS CHECK OUT DATE DAY TIME TITLE PRICE QTY SUBTOTAL Most performances are 90 minutes. G Three Bar Theater (G3Bar) at the Western Folklife Center is general Is your membership up-to-date? (See page 18 for benefit information.) 1/31-2/2 Thu-Sat 9:30am–4:30pm Three-Day Deluxe Pass $80 ______seating. Convention Center Auditorium (CCAud) is assigned seating. Varied pricing scale for the auditorium ■ New ■ Renewal September 4–October 3 MEMBERS’ ONLY Pre-Sale $60 ______shows reflect seat location with the higher-priced seats being closest to the stage. Premium priced G3Bar ■ Friend $40 ■ Family $75 ■ Patron $100 ■ Contributor $150 ■ Supporter $250 Children under 12 accompanied by an adult admitted free to non-ticketed daytime events show tickets are for a limited number of pre-seat tickets o ered during Member sales period only. ■ Partner $500 ■ Donor $1,000 ■ Benefactor $1,500 ■ Sustainer $3,000 1/31 Thu 9:30am–4:30pm Single Day Pass (Thursday) $30 ______DATE DAY TIME LOCATION TITLE PRICE QTY SUBTOTAL 2/1 Fri 9:30am–4:30pm Single Day Pass (Friday) $30 ______1/28 Mon 7pm G3Bar Anchoring the Tradition $20 ______Pass & Ticket Total: $ ______2/2 Sat 9:30am–4:30pm Single Day Pass (Saturday) $30 ______1/29 Tue 7pm G3Bar Old Time Good Time $20 ______Membership Total: $ ______WORKSHOPS & TALKS 1/30 Wed 7pm CCAud Western Jukebox $40/$30/$25 ______DATE DAY TIME TITLE PRICE QTY SUBTOTAL 1/31 Thu 12pm CCAud Members’ Show One $40/free to ______Donation: $ ______members* (ticket required) 1/27-30 Sun-Wed 9am Rawhide Braiding $375 ______Processing Fee: $ ______10.00 (per order) 1/31 Thu 6pm G3Bar Bull-Slingers, Braggarts & Blowhards $75**/$35 ______1/28-30 Mon-Wed 9am Floral Design & Carving $400 ______1/31 Thu 6pm CCAud Chronicling the West $40/$30/$25 ______GRAND TOTAL: $ ______1/29-30 Tue-Wed 9am Cowboy Comics $175 ______1/31 Thu 8pm G3Bar Muses Don’t Need No Stinkin’ GPS $75**/$35 ______1/29 Tue 9am Spit Cooking $75 ______2/1 Fri 11am CCAud Members’ Show Two $40/free to ______Payment Method 1/29 Tue 1pm Hearty Soups & Breads $75 ______members* (ticket required) ■ Check payable to Western Folklife Center (check #______) 1/29 Tue 3pm The Perfect Pour $60 ______2/1 Fri 3pm G3Bar After a Night on a Cowboy Town $30 ______■ Visa ■ MasterCard ■ American Express 1/30 Wed 9am Rope Halter Making $110 ______2/1 Fri 6pm CCAud Gimme Open Roads & Fresh Air $40/$30/$25 ______1/30 Wed 9am A Day at the Ranch $175 ______Card Number 2/1 Fri 8pm G3Bar Homes on the Range $75**/$35 ______1/30 Wed 9am Street Tacos $75 ______Security Code (CCV) Expiration Date 2/1 Fri 8pm CCAud Ride & Write ’em Pretty $40/$30/$25 ______1/30 Wed 9am The Spirit of Place $40 ______Cardholder Name 2/1 Fri 10pm CCTurq Friday Night Dance $20 ______1/30 Wed 1pm Peering into the Mirror $40 ______2/2 Sat 11am CCAud The Western Trail $30 ______Signature 1/30 Wed 1pm Pizza from Scratch $75 ______2/2 Sat 3pm CCAud Ranch Family Show $30/free to ______Mailing Address 1/30 Wed 3pm The Perfect Pour $60 ______ranch families (ticket required) Name 1/31 Thu 2pm Square Dance $25 ______2/2 Sat 6pm G3Bar Words Growing Wild in the West $75**/$35 ______Address 2/1 Fri 10am Old-Time Ranch Dance $25 ______2/2 Sat 6pm CCAud Laugh Kills Lonesome $40/$30/$25 ______2/1 Fri 2pm Zydeco & Cajun $25 ______2/2 Sat 8pm G3Bar The Big Accordion $75**/$35 ______2/2 Sat 10am Intermediate Two-Step $25 ______2/2 Sat 8pm CCAud Bridging the 49th $40/$30/$25 ______City State Zip Code 2/2 Sat 10:30am Songwriting: A Conversation with Corb $25 ______2/2 Sat 10pm CCTurq Saturday Night Dance $20 ______Daytime Phone 2/2 Sat 1pm Square Dance for the Family $5/$10 ______2/2 Sun 12am G3Bar Midnight Dance $20 ______Email

2/2 Sat 2pm Swing $25 ______Pass & Ticket Total: ______Billing Address (if different)

SPECIALS Bring a Friend Gathering The Next Generation ALL SALES ARE NON REFUNDABLE AND NON EXCHANGEABLE Early Week Discount Bring friends who are new to the Gathering and earn a FREE Are you between the ages of 15 and 35? A limited number of Day Passes and evening 3-Day Deluxe Pass for yourself! Here’s how: show tickets are available at the discounted price of $20! Buy up to two tickets per Mail this form to Are you attending an early week workshop? If so, you qualify National Cowboy Poetry Gathering Tickets »» Bring two new friends to the Gathering. show as well as up to two Day Passes. Not all shows are discounted, so look for the for $5 discount to both Monday and Tuesday night shows at Western Folklife Center »» Purchase two (2) Deluxe Passes for your friends. icon in our Ticketed Shows list. Tickets are will-call only and all ticket/pass users 7:00pm in the G3Bar theater! Just call the ticket office with 501 Railroad St. »» Email or phone us with their contact information. must show valid proof of age at pickup. When purchasing tickets online, please use your order and request the early week discount for the shows. Elko, NV 89801-3752 »» We confirm your friends are new to the Gathering. discount code NEXTGEN on the checkout form. Questions? Email [email protected] or call (888) 880-5885, ext. 1 Ranchers & Working Cowboys get in free »» We ship one (1) FREE Deluxe Pass to you! Members’ Pre-Sale 3-Day Deluxe Pass Discount to the Ranch Family Show and can request free day passes If you bring four (4) new friends and purchase Deluxe Passes NEXTGEN available tickets Members can buy Deluxe Passes at a discount! 3-Day Deluxe Passes will be $60 *Members' Show tickets (see membership benefits grid on page 18) by calling the ticket office. for them, you qualify for two (2) FREE Deluxe Passes! from September 4 – October 4 only. Learn how to become a member on page 18. **Special Pre-seat option for limited number of tickets/show. Pre-seat ticket holders will have special/early access to the theater.

V 10 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG 35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 11 W THURSDAY, JANUARY31 CONTINUED 31

SHOWC Muses Don’t Need No Stinkin’ GPS G Three Bar Theater · 8:00 – 9:30pm · $75/$35

Stories and songs float on the wind, and those anointed by the Muses hear them, translate the words and music, and offer them back to us . This magical night features: songs from horseman, guitar wizard and storyteller Mike Beck; the cosmic alternative reality of words interpreted by participle extraordinare Paul Zarzyski; haunting desert music channeled by 3hattrio (Hal Cannon, Greg

Istock, and Eli Wrankle); and the enchanting lyrics, melodies, and 3hattrio Courtesy of harmonies of father and daughter Rob and Halladay Quist . 3hattrio

SHOWC FRIDAY, FEBRUARY1 1 Members’ Show Two: A Veterans Writers Project · Ongoing, see Monday Schedule Consternation of Critters Elko Convention Center Auditorium WORKSHOPP 11:00am – 12:30pm Old Time Ranch Dance $40/Free to members with ticket A cowboy’s life is all about critters . Four-legged, six-legged, even 10:00am – 12:00pm · $25 eight-legged (for all you arachnophobes out there) and they’re all out With the current old-time music revival holding strong across the to get ya and show you who’s really in charge . Ride along with us as country, young and old are rediscovering the joys of social dancing poets Dick Gibford, Joel Nelson, Maria Lisa Eastman, DW Groethe, to live music . With a few simple moves, these dances can still raise Paul Zarzyski and musician Brenn Hill try to explain for you just why the roof when the bow hits the fiddle strings . Craig Miller will lead this is so . you through dances like the Virginia reel, circle dances and a variety of other dances with simple steps . Partners aren’t necessary — just come prepared to meet a lot of people and have a ton of fun, the old- WORKSHOPP fashioned way . Zydeco & Cajun 2:00 – 4:00pm · $25

There’s something joyfully infectious about the music of rural Louisiana . ‘Catch the bug’ with Amy Mills as you learn to jig to the ting-and-hum of Cajun triangle and accordion, and jitterbug to the driving, funky beat of zydeco . Experience the quick-stepping techniques in this workshop before hitting the dance floor later Friday night, to boogie the night away to the incomparable Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie . This class is for everyone . Beginners are welcome, and you don’t need a partner to attend . Courtesy of Maria Lisa Eastman Maria Lisa Eastman V 12 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG SHOWC After a Night on a Cowboy Town G Three Bar Theater · 3:00 – 4:30pm · $30

Descending from the desert, the mountains, and the plains, these three fellows really tear up a town . But, after the walking-around money’s been spent and the two-steps have turned to “sleeping on the blacktop,” what’s a cowboy to do? Recount the exploits, of course . Fess up . And, face up to the afterglow, when days return to routine Courtesy of Halladay Quist Halladay Quist and cowboys return to work, retelling tales of the evenings’ triumphs, stunts, escapades, hangovers… and all the regular days in between . This is the stuff of life . Told in the rich timbres and rabble-rousing tones of SHOWC “genuine article” Arizonan troubadour and foreman Gail Steiger, “cut ya to the quick” Montanan poet extreme Paul Zarzyski and “retro Homes on the Range outlaw” Saskatchewanian songwriter Colter Wall . G Three Bar Theater · 8:00 – 9:30pm · $75/$35

In the winter of 1985, over 25 poets left their ranch homes to meet up in Elko to share their brand of poetry . Thirty-five years later, Elko remains a destination . Though miles away from home, deep feelings of life back at the ranch — from nostalgic to tragic to magic — are ever present in the verse and song heard in Elko . Travel home with South Dakota ranch poet Yvonne Hollenbeck, Utah singer/songwriter Brenn Hill, Montana songwriter Trinity Seely and Michael Martin Murphey, who makes his ranch home in northern . There’s no place like… .

SHOWC

Courtesy of Colter Wall Colter Courtesy of Ride & Write ’em Pretty Colter Wall Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 8:00 – 9:30pm SHOWC $40/$30/$25

There are skills that good riders acquire over years of being a-horseback, Gimme Open Roads but the best riders also develop a sixth sense that enables them to com- & Fresh Air municate with the horse . So when they ride ’em pretty, there’s poetry in motion . Paul Zarzyski, Halladay Quist, Ned LeDoux and Corb Lund Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 6:00 – 7:30pm definitely can ride ’em pretty . But each also writes their musical lyrics $40/$30/$25 and poems thoughtfully and purposefully . Each has transcended the merely skillful to reach the artistic — their goal is to form that delicate This is a journey through the Great American West you won’t want link with the audience that results in deep understanding . You’ll hear to miss! The tour bus is outfitted with a sassy and classy crew, fueled how they write ’em sooooo pretty . So very pretty . by a high octane mix of music and poetry, and headed to western places you’ll never forget . Carolyn Martin and her powerhouse band will convince you that “It Don’t Mean a Thing, If it Ain’t Got That Swing .” Tish Hinojosa’s wanderlust spirit and soaring songs will invite you to “lose yourself to the moon,” chase sunsets and the scent of a rainstorm, and “rise from the highway and into the sky and leave all your sorrow behind ”. With roots firmly planted in northern New soil, Olivia Romo writes poetry through the eyes of a young woman and delivers it with the passion and hopeful spirit of her generation . A roving party isn’t complete without Montana father- daughter duo Halladay and Rob Quist . Both love the open road and their powerful original songs pay tribute to the people, places and experiences encountered along the way . Courtesy of Tish Hinojosa Tish Hinojosa 35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 13 W FRIDAY, FEBRUARY1 WORKSHOPP CONTINUED Songwriting: DANCEH A Conversation Friday Night Dance with with Corb Geno Delafose & French 10:30am – 12:00pm · $25 From goth girls to survivalists, Rockin’ Boogie bovines to bibles, antique pistols Elko Convention Center · 10pm – 12:00am · $20 to vintage motorcycles: - born honky-tonker Corb Lund’s When he’s not harvesting 200 acres of grass, Geno is coaxing songcraft plumbs the depths of his couples to the dancefloor with his low-slung accordion and killer personal experience of the West . backing band . From grass- to rug-cutting, these Creole His critically acclaimed album, cowboys know how to pass a good time . With their red-hot rhythms Things That Can’t Be Undone, landed and nouveau zydeco style, Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ on lists like NPR Music’s “Favorite Corb Lund Boogie bring you bayou-soaked boogie beats all the way from Songs Of 2015,” CBC’s “Best Louisiana . Melding Cajun and blues with a good dash of soul and Canadian Albums of 2015,” American Songwriter’s “Top 50 Songs country and western, this band is sure to spice up your two-steps, of the Year” and Boston Globe’s “Most Overlooked Albums of 2015 ”.

waltzes, and swing . Learn how to jig and jitterbug at the Cajun and Corb will share how he crafts a good song, why he draws on so many Lund Corb Courtesy of zydeco dance workshop on Friday . Or just bring your best boogie genres for his tunes and much more . spirit to the dancefloor — your feet will follow! SHOWC

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY The Western Trail 2 Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 11:00am – 12:30pm · $30

Veterans Writers Project · Ongoing, see Monday Schedule You know of the Ol’ , but do you know of the younger, longer, parallel trail that was the backdrop for the epic Lonesome Dove? At the tailend of the drive era, herds drove up The “Great” Western Trail from to railyards in and and north to Canada . Joining trodden soil to steel tracks, drovers along The Western Trail faced red dirt, infrequent saloons, grazing tolls and risk of stampeding . Traveling The Trail meant plenty of time to croon to the cows . These three present-day trailbosses will croon to you instead . Nevada poet Waddie Mitchell and Texas songsters Michael Martin Murphey and Andy Hedges drive a herd of trail songs and poems honoring The Western Trail . Kier Atherton Kier WORKSHOPP WORKSHOPP Square Dance for the Family Intermediate Two-Step 1:00 – 2:30pm · $5 Singles/Couples, $10 Family 10:00am – 12:00pm · $25 Activities where entire families can participate together are rare—but Are your boots already shuffling when you hear the boom-shik- square dancing can be an incredible experience for the whole family . ka of your favorite two-step? Do you love gliding across the floor Kids get a thrill from dancing with their parents, and parents remember with your sweetheart, but wish you had a more flair? If you find forever those brief years when they get to dance with their kids . This yourself looking over your partner’s shoulder trying to figure out that workshop will focus on family friendly dances that are entertaining fancy move your neighbor is doing, then it’s time to take your two- for children and adults alike . Live music will get everyone dancing, and step to the next level . Join Amy Mills for a quick refresher on the caller Alex MacLeod will teach all the movements — no experience fundamentals, before jumping right in for some intricate spins and necessary . So parents, bring your kids! Kids, bring your parents! We’ll wraps, as well as pointers on rhythm and musicality . Bring your boots have some big, big fun together! and your basics . No partners necessary .

V 14 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG WORKSHOPP Rodeo Swing 2:00 – 4:00pm · $25

If your toes are tapping but you need some good moves, this is a perfect dance for you . Rodeo swing is the easiest form of swing dancing and the style you’ll see at rodeo dances around the West, Ekburg Charlie as well as at the Saturday Night Dance with Carolyn Martin’s Swing Joel Nelson SHOWC Band . Craig Miller will teach you the moves and keep you smiling . Geared to beginning and intermediate dancers, but all levels are welcome . You don’t need a partner to attend . Words Growing Wild

SHOWC in the Woods West G Three Bar Theater · 6:00 – 7:30pm · $75/$35

Ranch Family Show A tremendous body of well-written poetry has emerged over the 35- Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 3:00 – 4:15pm year history of the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering . “Words Growing $30/Free to ranch families with ticket Wild in the West” celebrates the poems that are widely considered to be our strongest writers’ best efforts . We invite you to join us as some Some might say this show is wholesome, family-friendly of our oldest and youngest artists give voice to the powerful writing entertainment… and it is that . . but we like to think the Ranch Family that has come to define the genre of contemporary cowboy poetry . Show is where it gets real . Every year, the performers bring a hard- Featuring Andy Hedges, Joel Nelson, Vess Quinlan, Brigid Reedy, working, big-thinking sensibility to the stage, along with a desire to Randy Rieman, Paul Zarzyski and other special guests . share their creative perspective with all generations . This year is no exception . Saskatchewanian Ryan Fritz is the kind of songwriter, and SHOWC guy, whose fellow cowboys pitched in to fund his first record . He is joined by his son Hoss . rancher and poet Deanna McCall comes from a long line of Texas ranchers and herself raised a family Laugh Kills Lonesome “off the grid” in remote Nevada . And songwriters Daron Little and Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 6:00 – 7:30pm Matt Robertson tap into a genuine musical inspiration that stems $40/$30/$25 from living the life . Joining them on stage will be this year’s scholarship recipients . This whole ensemble brings you a real experience to delight Charlie Russell was right . After long hard days on the trail you needed the entire family . something to cheer your spirit . Might be a knowing little grin or it might be a grand knee slapping guffaw and a good poem or song was just the thing to bring it on . Join us for an evening of campfire chucklin’ with DW Groethe, Rodney Nelson, Gary McMahan, Waddie Mitchell and Dave Stamey .

SHOWC The Big Accordion G Three Bar Theater · 8:00 – 9:30pm · $75/$35

Mightier than a noisy honky tonk, sturdier than a precious fiddle, and (arguably) as beautiful as a Garcia saddle, the accordion is the unsung hero of the dancehall . In its many incarnations, this flexible instrument is a staple of not only cowboy music but rural music throughout the . From norteño to zydeco to Western music (and the songs in-between), this evening is dedicated to sonorous squeezebox splendor . Geno Delafose is a master on both the diatonic and piano varieties, while Sourdough Slim’s antics are rooted in vaudevillian virtuosity, and Chip Dolan (of the Tish Hinojosa band) knows the acordéon inside and out . These three musicians, along with their bands, bring you a show that, like their instruments, is quintessentially

Jessica Brandi Lifland Brandi Jessica cowboy: big on sound, big on versatility, and big on bedazzlement . Dave Stamey 35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 15 W SATURDAY, FEBRUARY2 DANCEH CONTINUED Saturday Night Dance with SHOWC Carolyn Martin’s Swing Band Bridging the 49th & More! Elko Convention Center Auditorium · 8:00 – 9:30pm Elko Convention Center · 10:00pm – 12:00am · $20 $40/$30/$25 Renowned for a smooth voice with subtle but irresistible inflections, A border by cartography standards, the 49th parallel north Western swing singer Carolyn Martin has made a name for herself distinguishes Canada from the United States . On maps, anyway . But, as a songstress of throwback sounds delivered in a thoroughly up-to- try telling these musicians that as they sing themselves from side to date manner . She fronts an all-star band that can drop a groove in the side and back again . Jamie Fox and Alex Kusturok’s fiddling heals a pocket like a work truck finds a rut . Driving hard down the traditional formerly fading Métis fiddle tradition . Sid Marty’s poetry, storytelling Western swing road, Carolyn Martin’s Swing Band takes some and songwriting travels like the Albertan wind . Corb Lund’s musical scenic detours into big band, blues, even broadway . A shuffle here, a diplomacy bridges the country and the city . And Colter Wall’s syncopation there… it’s a surefire combo to have you dancing until you songwriting blends the real and the magical . Making beauty out of drop . As Carolyn would say, swing on! When the band takes a short coexistence, proving that lines are never quite what they seem, these break, don’t stop moving! We’ve invited Alex MacLeod to call a quick five bards of the borderlands epitomize the artist as ambassador . set of square dances to the lively tunes of the Hobb Dye String Band . Never squared danced? No worries, Alex can guide everyone through the moves and guarantees big grins all along the way .

DANCEH Midnight Dance with Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie G Three Bar Theater · 12:00 – 2:00am · $20

Don’t pack your bags yet! Give your boots one last shine and your mustache one last wax . After a week of hard work and hard play, it’s time for one last stroll around the dancefloor . Make some memories (or shake some memories) at the midnight dance . Geno and his crew ramp it up for one more zydeco and cowboy-infused hurrah, inviting you to dance all night and stay a little longer . Laissez les bon temps

John GaarJohn rouler — or, “let the good times roll” — before you roll out of town . Geno Delafose

Poster Artist: Kurt Markus Born and raised in rural northwest Montana, internationally acclaimed photographer Kurt Markus is as at home on a fashion shoot as he is on location anywhere in the world . He seamlessly applies his unique aesthetic to a breadth of work that spans a range of subjects: music, sport, celebrity, travel, reportage, fashion, figure study, landscape and cowboys . Kurt is widely published, both in monographs and anthologies, including three revered volumes on cowboys: After , Buckaroo and Cowpuncher . He has made pictures for virtually all of the major publications, including: Vanity Fair, GQ, Rolling Stone, Travel + Leisure, New York Times Magazine, among many others . Kurt’s photographs are in the collections of several museums and his fine art prints are offered through the Staley-Wise Gallery in New York . He and his wife/agent, Maria, relocated to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2014 .

V 16 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG Elko & P Y T

HOW TO GET HERE: SHOW LOCATIONS Elko, Nevada, is located in the northeastern corner of the state along Most National Cowboy Poetry Gathering events take place at the Interstate 80 . We are 230 miles from , 290 miles from Western Folklife Center (501 Railroad Street), the Elko Convention Reno, 425 miles from Las Vegas, and 255 miles from Boise . Elko is Center and Elko Conference Center (700 Moren Way) and the Great serviced by Delta Air Lines from Salt Lake City (SLC) to Elko (EKO) . Basin College Theatre (1500 College Parkway) . Cooking workshops Amtrak stops in Elko daily . You can also charter a private airplane or take place at the First Presbyterian Church (1559 Sewell Drive) and helicopter through El Aero Services . dance workshops take place at the Elko High School Old Gym (987 College Avenue) . A map of Elko detailing all of these locations is WHERE TO STAY: located on our website at nationalcowboypoetrygathering.org and can Elko boasts a whopping 35 hotels and motels, with plenty of rooms be found in the official event schedule . to choose from during the Gathering . You will find that rooms span a wide price range! Though there will always be available rooms during ACCESSIBILITY the Gathering, you might want to book ahead to get one that fits Assisted-listening devices are available in the Elko Convention Center your budget and needs . Auditorium and the G Three Bar Theater at the Western Folklife Find hotels that offer special Gathering rates on our website, Center . Volunteers will be available to assist wheelchair users and www.nationalcowboypoetrygathering.org/planning-your-trip . Feel free to guide visitors with disabilities . If you need assistance, please call to call the Western Folklife Center for hotel advice, or contact Elko (775) 738-7508 to prearrange these services. Wheelchair seating is Convention and Visitors Authority at 800-248-3556 or the Elko limited — get your tickets early . Our shuttle vans are unfortunately not Chamber of Commerce at 775-738-7135 . equipped with lifts .

HOW TO GET AROUND ONCE YOU’RE HERE: WEATHER The main Gathering venues are located a little more than a mile apart . Elko is in the high desert of the Great Basin at 5,000-feet elevation, We provide complimentary shuttle service on a fixed route between and weather in January and February is varied . Check the weather venues Wednesday through Saturday . These shuttles transport artists before you travel and the road conditions if you are driving . Be and audience alike, and we ask that artists get priority if needed —we prepared for cold winter weather . wouldn’t want them to be late to a show! Elko does have taxi service and free parking is abundant . Some hotels will offer shuttle service for SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 36TH GATHERING their guests . It’s not too early to mark your calendars for the 36th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, January 27 – February 1, 2020 .

FOR MORE INFORMATION: nationalcowboypoetrygathering.org · (888) 880-5885 · (775) 738-7508

VOLUNTEER AT THE GATHERING

Whether you’re from Elko or from out of town, you can lend a hand at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering . Volunteers assist with everything from taking tickets to creating stages to helping guests and artists . Over 300 volunteers keep this operation going, so it’s a great way to meet your fellow Gathering-goers . Opportunities are available throughout the week of the Gathering (and earlier!) . Get involved! Get matched up with a volunteer opportunity by registering at westernfolklife.org/volunteer . Our Volunteer Coordinator will contact you with more information starting in October . Meg Glaser

35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 17 W Membership

Become a Member of the Western Folklife Center By supporting the Western Folklife Center as a member, you not only help us bring you the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering and outstanding educational programs for youth, exhibitions and films — you also get to buy your Gathering tickets one month early . Many shows sell out, so this is a good reason to become a member . You also get a free ticket to a special members’ show and a discount on the 3-Day Deluxe Pass, which gives you access to all of the non-ticketed daytime programming at the Gathering!

The greatest benefit of membership is supporting the Western Folklife Center and helping us support the HOW DO I BUY TICKETS EARLY? stories and cultures of the American West! »» Select your level of membership (see grid below) and become a member no later than August 31. THREE WAYS TO JOIN: »» At 9am PDT on September 4, go online to nationalcowboypoetrygathering.org and click on Tickets. 1. Go to westernfolklife.org and click Join. »» Pick your shows and purchase your tickets! 2. Call the Western Folklife Center at 888-880-5885 ext. 222. 3. Mail in your Ticket Order Form (pages 8–9) with the membership You may also purchase tickets over the phone by calling purchase included. 775-738-7508 or toll-free at 888-880-5885 .

Benefits of Membership

MEMBERSHIP Friend Family Patron Contributor Supporter Partner Donor Benefactor Sustainer BENEFITS $40 $75 $100 $150 $250 $500 $1,000 $1,500 $3,000

Purchase Gathering Limit 2 tickets Limit 4 tickets Limit 6 tickets Limit 8 tickets Unlimited tickets for each show at the Gathering tickets early per show per show per show per show

Free ticket(s) to 1 ticket 2 tickets 3 tickets 4 tickets 6 tickets 8 tickets 10 tickets a Members’ Show

Discounts in Gift Shop $5 gift certificate Ongoing 10% discount

Unframed Gathering poster

Gift package

Free admission to all Western Folklife Center events (excludes Gathering)

JOIN NOW AND BUY TICKETS AND PASSES EARLY

Members get a discount on the 3-Day Deluxe Pass during the members-only sale period . Deluxe passes are $60 from September 4 through October 3 . The quantity you can buy is based on your membership level . October 4, Deluxe Passes return to the full price of $80 . Get them early! Tickets go on sale to the general public October 4 .

V 18 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYPOETRYGATHERING.ORG supportSupport

Sponsorship Opportunities Donations Corporations and foundations can make a significant Your support is greatly valued and appreciated . We impact on programming and support general welcome your tax-deductible gift of any size to the operations by underwriting or sponsoring Gathering Western Folklife Center .

events . And anyone can help bring a performing artist The Western Folklife Center is a non-profit 501c(3) organization based to this year’s Gathering . in Elko, Nevada. Please consult with your attorney or tax advisor for the various tax benefits and restrictions that may apply to your specific For more information, contact us at 775-738-7508, ext . 222 or visit situation. westernfolklife.org .

SUPPORT THE GATHERING WITH A DONATION TO THE SILENT AUCTION

Want to support the Western Folklife Center and its programs? Donate something wonderful to our silent auction! We are looking for a wide variety of high-quality items representing western life: framed artwork, sculptures, handcrafted horse gear, musical instruments, , books, handmade quilts, carvings, cases of wine, travel packages and other experiences . Please call 888-880-5885, ext . 222, or email [email protected]

with donation information or questions . Lifland Brandi Jessica

Thank you to the Major Sponsors of the 2018 National Cowboy Poetry Gathering

The Ford Foundation Elko Convention & Visitors Authority William Randolph Hearst Foundation W.M. Keck Foundation/Matt Day Sr. Elko County Recreation Board KNPB Channel 5 Public Broadcasting City of Elko Red Lion Hotel & Casino NV Energy Nevada Commission on R. Harold Burton Foundation Tito & Sandra Tiberti Sally Searle John & Beverly Muraglia Laura & E.W. Littlefield, Jr. Jennifer Speers Nevada Arts Council Nevada Humanities National Endowment for the Arts The Martin Guitar Charitable Foundation Newmont Mining Corporation Stockmen’s Casino & Ramada Inn Elko Blach Distributing Company TownePlace Suites by Marriott E.L. Cord Foundation Wells Fargo Bank Foundation

Jessica Brandi Lifland Brandi Jessica Barrick Gold of , Inc. N Sponsors listed gave $5,000 or more.

35TH NATIONAL COWBOY POETRY GATHERING 19 W