You Call These Guys Amateurs?

Nebraska Cowboy Poetry Gathering Part 2...

As I mentioned in the first post, the Gathering is divided into two parts - the Sessions and the Performances. I guess I really can't tell you the difference between the poets in either of these groupings - even the Professionals, with a few exceptions, usually still make their actual livings from some aspect of life in the west. Maybe the delivery of the professionals is a little more polished, and they have a bit more stage presence, but don't let the distinction between a Professional cowboy poet and an Amateur keep you from watching either of them - you're in for a treat either way.

The guys in the Sessions we were able to attend could maybe be better described as Locals, not amateurs.  This post features some of the performers in the Sessions.

Bruce Messersmith is a third-generation rancher from Sheridan County Nebraska, on the edge of the Nebraska Sandhills in the Pine Ridge country. His poetry comes from his real-life experiences and stories he's heard over the years. His wife, Lyn Messersmith is also an accomplished Cowboy Poet, although we didn't have the privilege of hearing her on this trip.

Ken Morland and Marty Blocker are both working ranchers from the northern Nebraska Sandhill country. 

The next three performers are definitely NOT what comes to mind when you hear the word amateurs. Chris and Charity Gudgel and Paul Siebert - The Double D Wranglers - are accomplished musicians, and put on a fantastic show. And to clinch the deal, Chris is an amazing yodeler.
Since a still picture doesn't really do their performance justice, I have added a youtube video for your viewing pleasure.  If you're interested, the Double D Wranglers have just confirmed that they will be performing at the Nebraska Outback House Concert (That's me!) on November 19.

Dan Stehlik is a teacher from Kansas, I believe an Industrial Arts or Ag instructor. I wonder if his students get the insight into the wise and thoughtful man that we got to see up on stage.
Teresa Kay's bio reads "The rolling hills and winding roads were the landscape in which she worked y her father's side (as daddy's boy) rounding up the cattle on horseback and becoming a steward of the land. Teresa has always had a love of music with a deep understanding of hard work within the midwestern culture.
Marci Broyhill, who also happens to be Teresa's sister, enjoys researching the people and cultures involved in the Western movement. Her subject matter is serious, bittersweet, humorous, and reflective.
Phillip Crawford performed a tried-and-true standard of Western music, and one of my favorites "Little Joe The Wrangler".
Thanks for stopping by. The coffee is always on.