Do Cowgirls Get the Blues?
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, Jan. 23-30
Famous stage hounds include Baxter Black, Texas rancher and large animal vet turned tale spinner whose essays on National Public Radio have regaled cityfolk for a decade. And this year's roster brings a riot of notable ranchlife women including singer-songwriter Adrian, Utah poet Jerry Brooks, Doris the plaintive sounds of Cowboy Celtic, Canadian Cowgirl poet Doris Daley, Grand Dame Dakota poet Elizabeth Ebert, the wit and wisdom of Georgie Sicking and many others.
Sleepy, unpretentious Elko springs to life for a week as festivals, shows, gatherings, workshops and anything cowboy lands a spot on the schedule and becomes a celebrated event. Basque restaurants turn on the heat with prodigious family-style meals and the saloons keep the space between performances and workshops buzzing. Enjoy the dining, galleries and libation comforts of the Western Folklife Center in the center of town and the center of action.
Working guest ranches around town, such as the 71 Ranch in the shadows of the Ruby Mountains, are ready host as are the town's many hotels and casinos. And there is certainly a plethora of Super 8's, Econolodges and even a Red Lion to take up the slack. And although little Elko does book up for this event it often enlists the generosity of residents to fill in the missing room inventory.
At dead center of Elko's cowboy culture is the Western Folklife Center, launched in 1985 by a small group of folklorists and poets. It's a gathering place in full period ambiance with a bar and a museum and a small hall attached for many of the week's events.
Each year some obscure version of cowboy culture is brought to the fore, and this year that happens to be the Seminole and "Cracker" cowboys from Florida and swamp cowboys from Louisiana. Cattle ranching on the Florida panhandle dates back to the 16th century when Spanish explorers introduced horses and cattle to the region. Louisiana's cattle business has flourished since the mid-18th century where locals maintained "anyone can herd cows on dry land!" Regional poets, storytellers, cooks, Creole zydeco musicians, craftspeople and Seminole Indian cowboys will be there to tell the tale.
"Ticketed" programs and workshops are sold separately from the majority of performances that take place during the four busiest days: Wednesday, January 27 through Saturday, January 30. A four-day Deluxe Pass provides admission to all "non-ticketed" sessions during this four-day period. Single Day Passes are available for Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. If purchased by December 18, a four-day Deluxe Pass is $50.00 and includes the Program Book. After December 18, the cost increases to $60.00 (if not purchased as a part of a Deluxe Pass, the Program Book sells for $5.00). A single Day Pass for Wednesday, January 27, is $15. Single Day passes for Thursday, Friday and Saturday, January 28-30, are $20. Children under 12 are admitted free to all "non-ticketed" daytime events.
Historic, colorful Elko sits squarely in the middle of Northern Nevada, along Interstate 80, 230 miles from Salt Lake City, 295 miles from Reno, and 255 miles from Boise. The town is serviced by SkyWest Airlines (a Delta Connection) from Salt Lake City, Amtrak, and Greyhound Bus Lines. Find rental car service in Elko through Enterprise (775-738-2899 or 800-593-0505), Hertz (775-738-3147), and Avis (775-738-4426). Carpooling is encouraged. Find a ride on the Western Folklife Center's online Discussion Board.
Die-hard cowboy poetry fans be warned: Elko is cold in January with nighttime temperatures running about 20 degrees. Boots and hat: Strongly recommended.
Contact:
Western Folklife Center
888-850-5885; 775-738-7508
Elko Convention and Visitors Authority
800-248-3556; 775-738-4091
Elko Chamber of Commerce
775-738-7135
71 Ranch
866-717-7171
Published by Where Daily
- Emmylou Harris--A String of Pearls An introduction and somewhat brief overview of my 10 favorite songs by Emmylou Harris. I limited my top ten picks to material she released between 1975-1989.
- How to Get Your Poetry Published Getting your poetry published is a dream for some, but can become a reality. In this article you can find out what is really involved in having your poetry published.
- Disney Annual Pass - Worth the Investment? Disneyland is one of the best theme parks in the world. Is all the fun worth buying an annual pass?
-
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City
Western heritage fans will be drawn to the many movie props, while naturalists are drawn to the Native American wares. It's one of the finest Museums in Oklahoma.
- Bandera, TX - The Cowboy Capital of the World what to see and do in Bandera TX
- Otay Ranch Town Center: Mall and Entertainment Center: First Lifestyle Center in S...
- Why a Poet is Against National Poetry Month "As Such"
- How to Plan a Cheap Vacation Any Time of the Year Near Elko, Nevada
- The Gaslight Anthem Emerge as Potential Successor to Bruce Springsteen Throne
- July 22: Today's Notable Birthdays
- February 5: Today's Notable Birthdays
- Tom Robbins: Fierce Invalids Home from Hot Climates
|
|