Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking

Texas Folklore

2012-01-25T15:55:00.000-08:00

Texas Folklore: by Roger Edison

They say that trees talk as the branches blow in the wind. They sing the songs from yesterday and silence the secrets of each man's sin. Cut upon the trunks of carved barked, Indians and Cowboys both left there mark. Along the many rivers that flow, there rest deep roots the trees will sow. The stories collected deep into their core, as leaves fall, again return, as so the stories of Texas folklore.

photo of Oak Tree, Victoria, Texas Christmas Eve 2004, photo shared by a dear friend. This was the second miracle snow fall for south Texas which rarely sees snow. The first time was Christmas Eve 1918 with a mere 0.1 inch fell, but sincerely was not like the snow from 1895 to only be repeated again in 2004, remember this as the year it snow. Once in a lifetime and a first white Christmas for many, including my mother who visit that year.

Signature Boots with a Signature Voice

2012-01-16T23:13:00.000-08:00

Juni Fisher

Story by Roger Edison

Juni Fisher is a remarkable entertainer whose signature voice has earned her several awards throughout the decades, including 'Entertainer of the Year' for 2011 through the Western Music Association. In addition to Juni's award for 'Best Entertainer' she was also the 2011 recipient of 'Best Female performer' and 'Best writer/song' by the WMA, what Juni calls, "Winning the triple crown."

As she takes the stage wearing her authentic western outfits, one quickly realizes Juni also expresses her heritage of true western life not only by her music, as well the fashion of her attire. She strums a few notes on her Larrivee Guitar, harmonizing her voice opening the show with the song "Yakima" from her 2010 CD release 'Let' er Go, Let' er Buck, Let' er Fly.' The song is about the character, Yakima Canutt, an early Hollywood stunt man, Maverick and Rodeo Champion. Her deep emotion brings alive the story as her melody reflects her spirit as a modern day troubadour.

Her heavily booked concerts range from private parties to large western gatherings that celebrate the 'Cowboy Way.' Places like Spirit of the West Cowboy Gathering, Ellensburg, WA or opening for Michael Martin Murphey in Palm Springs, California, Juni entertains from coast to coast. Many of her shows are tied in with various events which preserve the heritage of western life.

Added entertainment like chuck wagon cooking, Cowboy reenactments of gun fights, trick roping and horsemanship are frequently part of many western events. Vendors line their tables presenting crafts to the visiting public, while the stage is devoted to the cowboy poets, story tellers and western bands where Juni's music plays a big part for these gatherings which draw crowds in by the thousands.

Many of her ballads are stories that have been passed along to her from her dad about the good ole days as her grandpa busted horses for Calvary remounts, or about her great grandfather, John E. Overstreet, born in Missouri who worked the cattle drives as a young teen before moving to Colorado. Her great grandfather would later marry to Christina Carlson Jarr, widow of Alphonse Jarr living out his cowboy dreams where his legacy help mold the historic Jarr Creek ranch in Sedalia, Colorado.

Growing up on the family farm, Juni's dad, the late Howard Fisher worked their orange tree orchards in the San Joaquin Valley edging Strathmore, California. Today, her mom, Florence Ophelia "Buzz" Fisher-Burtner continues expanding, providing oranges to Sunkist. "Buzz" was recognized by the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation in 2009 receiving an award honoring women in agriculture.

On the farm, Juni would learn to play the guitar by age seven and write her first song the following year. Together with her two sister's, they would perform as a trio singing hits from the late 50's - early 60's group 'New Christie Minstrels' and various other folk music. "My Dad had the desire for me to play music, but my parents were non-musical. They allowed me to take lessons, even though we were a working class farm family. My parents did without luxuries so that we could have music if we wanted it," states Juni.

Juni would become involved with 4H and received her first pair of Cowboy boots from her mom as an eighth grade junior high graduation gift. The Acme roughouts would get lots of wear as Juni performed horse shows and became the FFA team captain for the Livestock and Horse judging once in high school. It wasn't long before she wore out the pair of Acme's and replacing with a smooth calf skin boot. Her dad had a boot shining kit and it didn't take long before Juni was polishing her boots like a pro. She encourage team mates to polish their boots buffing the toes on the back of their trousers before presenting oral interviews with FFA judges.

After graduating from high school at Strathmore, she went on to studied Equine Science at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, California and participated in Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) where she won awards through the Intercollegiate and Quarter Horse shows. To cover entry fees and have extra money, Juni sung big band standards in a dance orchestra.

Leaving college, Juni apprenticed training cow horses and as a catch rider. In 1981, life was taking a low spot for Juni. She had just been laid off from work due to a lack of horses to train, plus making things worst, she was going through a divorce. In addition of bad things to top her list, her Roper style boots desperately needed to be resoled. Taking her last $100 to cover entry fees for the 1981 IARCHA Snaffle Bit Futurity, Juni needed to become focus if she had any chances of winning.

Long time friend Greg Ward, a renown horse trainer advised Juni to visualize using a mental exercise. A process of positive thinking that many athletes use focusing on self-affirmation techniques for successful competitions. Greg told Juni to perform her routine in her thoughts until she saw herself perform the routine with total perfection. Juni did just that focusing on her futurity exercise. As her entry number was called, Juni states, "I entered the arena an began the pattern. Each lead change was just as I had pictured them in my mind. The stops were as good as I had dared to dream, and the turnarounds (some people call them spins) were smooth, pretty, and flawless." She won the futurity event becoming the first female to win the championship. Additionally, her horse was the first mare to also win this event. Taking her $1,100 prize money, she resoled that pair of ropers and added a new pair of boots to her collection.

In 1983, Juni won her first Bridle Horse Championship at the Monterey Classic while working on a cow calf operation, and running a roping arena. Her bridle horses did day work on the ranch, and competed weekends. Friends often gathering after events or around camp fires, Juni was there with her guitar playing music as she sang songs about the west which she learned from her father.

She moved to Santa Ynez, CA. in 1984 to train cutting horses, taking her blossoming songwriting skills with her. She also worked at Jedlicka's Saddlery in Santa Barbara. The Saddle shop is a high-end retailer offering equestrian products for Western and English riding tack, attire and gifts. Juni admits she suddenly had access to the cutest boots the minute they went on sale. Although, Juni's interest turn to pursued her music abilities joining a local band playing rhythm guitar, singing leads and backups. Soon, she found herself working clubs in Los Angeles with a Country dance band.

In 1991, Juni return to working horses accepting a one year position with a Tennessee Hunt Club working as a Foxhunt Professional. "Point to point racing, steeplechasing, and horse trials took the place of cowhorses, while she honed her songwriting skills among Nashville’s finest," states Juni.

Juni would also meet Rusty Bain, a native of Missouri who graduated from the University of Missouri in Animal Science. Rusty trained thoroughbred horses for Flat Racing before beginning a career as an Equine Specialist with Purina. The couple married where today, they make their home in Franklin, Tennessee.

Juni would decide to retire from working horses a few years after an injury to her neck cracking the vertebrae. Returning to music, Juni's heavy schedule leaves Rusty to care for the horse while she's away and he often has dinner waiting for her the moment she returns.

By 1999, Juni release her first western album, “Tumbleweed Letters.” The sound track of eleven songs featured an array of stories of characters who made their way in the early west. The album totally written by Juni and shared a duet with Ranger Doug on the final song and album title, "Tumbleweed Letters." The album had a slow start, until it had reached Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival director Gary Brown by late 2003. After he shared Juni’s music with other promoters, Juni became a big hit and would shift to music full time as her profession.

She followed the release with another CD, "Sideshow Romance," that received great reviews and nominated for Independant Recording Artist Grammy - "Just Plain Folks." By 2005, Juni received her first award of recognition as Academy of Western Female Vocalist of the Year and the 2005 Western Music Association's - Crescendo Award. 2006 found Juni being recognized again by the WMA as Female Performer of the Year followed by WMA Song of the Year in 2007 with her hit song, "I Hope She'll Love Me" from her "Cowgirlography" CD release.

2008, Juni release the CD, "Gone to Colorado" again receiving honors with the WMA Songwriter of the Year Award and the Western Heritage "WRANGLER AWARD" for Outstanding Western Album. The Wrangler awards are presented through the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, OK. The awards first began in 1961 recognizing best Western movies, television, literature and music. Inductees to the Hall of Great Westerners and the Hall of Great Western Performers are part of the annual Black Tie banquet. Juni, just four years prior stood in the office of Scott O'Malley and Associates in Colorado Springs, CO, and looked in awe at the beautiful "Wrangler Awards" displayed there for Scott's great roster of artists: Don Edwards, Waddie Mitchell, Rich O'Brien and Sons of the San Joaquin. Telling Scott and her husband Rusty, Juni said, "I want one of those." She had achieve her goal proudly becoming the first Female music Artist to receive the award. Upon accepting the award, she walked back to her table and placed the award in front of her mother "Buzz."

The Western Music Association would again recognize Juni awarding Female Performer of the Year and Traditional Album of the Year. Juni began working on another Cd, "Let 'er Go, Let 'er Buck, Let 'er Fly" Celebrating 100 years of the Pendleton Round Up. The Cd would land her the 2011 WMA Female Performer of the Year, Song of the Year, and the Western Music Association Entertainer of the Year awards. This would be another first for Juni becoming the first female to receive the WMA Entertainer of the Year Award.

Though Juni's concert schedule has her on the road much of the year, she still finds time for her fans answering letters, emails or updating her FACEBOOK page. Juni also makes time for husband Rusty communicating through long distance phones calls, short text messages or a quick weekend flight to accompany her at one of many concerts.

Juni's early Influences in music were artist Marty Robbins, Joan Baez and Burl Ives. She enjoys listening to them today along with Bonnie Raitt, Aretha Franklin, Tom Waits, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Corb Lund, Don Williams or "anything that is edgy and cool," states Juni. While traveling on the road, she listens too audio books when not listening to her favorite music.

Traveling on a moments notice back in the day working as a catch rider, Juni has packing her luggage down to a science. Whether traveling by air or her RV nicknamed 'the cowgirl camper,' she keeps things organized, simple and smartly. Carrying luggage can be awkward, so she uses well made baggage equipped with wheels for easy maneuvering. Even her guitar goes as a carry on when flying, packed in a bright red Calton case, where Juni had fitted with an after-market handle on the headstock and wheels to make walking from one gate to another a breeze.

Juni loves the great outdoors, trail riding on her favorite Little Red Horse, "Flipper" along with fly fishing. She rarely goes on the road without her flyfishing gear. Juni is the former president of her local chapter of Trout Unlimited and has instructed flyfishing with Cast For Recovery. She participated in 'Hook-On-A-Cure' a St Jude's Children's Hospital celebrity fly fishing event. She also has been featured on several Fishing shows along with competing in the 2003 and 2004 OLN Fly Fishing Masters Competition. When asked, what's the secret of being good at fishing? Juni replied, "Getting into the zen of the water and feed the fish. Fishing is about the joy of fishing."

Juni Fisher Signature Boots

She also appreciates wearing attractive boots. While she loved wearing simple Cordovan color Ropers for the arena during her cowhorse routines, she didn't care for what the market was selling entering back into music in 1999. "I found nothing that was feminine or pretty…it was the start of the “fat-baby” age of boots. I detested that look of a toddler’s boot with a thick sole. I wanted real boots, smooth soles, tall tops, and had my fill of black and brown. I was looking for color," states Juni. She wears custom boots made by 'Buffalo Run Boot Company'' in Sheridan, Wyoming and her signature boots made by CABOOTS (Champion Attitude Boot Company) in El Paso, Texas. "Both companies are generous and wonderful sponsors," states Juni.

Juni shares a sincere compassion for the American west. An unyielding love and respect of heritage that is deeply expressed in the lyrics of her songs. Each note, a fostering emotion that brings the old west back to life, much like her granddad Fisher's saddle, a treasured heirloom that Juni recently had restored by Double Branch Saddlery in Columbia, Tennessee. Rejuvenating the old leather, replacing the needed skirt lining with new fleece and saddle strings, cherished memories come to life much like the songs from the woman wearing the signature boots with her signature voice.

To order CD's or contact Juni Fisher, contact her on line at her web site:

http://www.junifisher.net/index.html

Giving Her the BOOT

2011-12-31T14:18:00.000-08:00

In 2011, I needed to take some action that had long been over due. It basically started with a mistake in 2006 that just seem to be edging at me year after year until I just could not take it much longer. I needed to give the wife the boot and for Christmas, well I did. No, not that kind of boot. She is a wonderful person. But she did need to have a mistake corrected that started in 2006 due to my fast pace Christmas shopping.

First, I say fast pace. Perhaps I should say, last minute. Putting off things until the last minute because who really does want to stand in long checking lines at the cash register only waiting for some customer with an item that no longer has a tag on it and then it seems to take forever to get a price check. I do admit, I dread those moments. Nevertheless, the reward of giving seriously out weights the discomfort of waiting. It's just being a little patient and understanding that each customer too is out to make a difference for someone special in their life.

So, what had occurred in 2006 was my attempt to make the Christmas shopping perfect. Driving around town rushing through various stores, stretching the dollar and finding things I thought the wife would like, or should I state, hope she likes. Who wouldn't like a new pair of western boots?

So here I was at Academy Sporting Goods store when I walked down an isle noticing several Ladies Western Boots on sale. What a deal, too. Not fifty percent off, not even seventy five percent off but 80% off - close-out on several pairs of matching Ladies Western Boots. WOW, this is going to be great, I thought. Sure, they were not a pair of Tony Lama or Corral Boots and no, they were not a pair of Jimmy Choo Shoes, but this was one bargain, I should have resisted. They had such eye appeal, I knew the wife was going to love them.

So, I hurriedly grab the pair checking the size as I ignored the sign stating clearance items, no returns accepted. Then off to the fishing section of the store to grab some stocking stuffing's for our son. Shopping was done since I had already been to Macy's, had a quick trip earlier to Victory Secrets at the Mall and purchased a few items "On-Line." I was surely batting 100 as I stood through that long dreaded check out counter and finally had my final purchases for 2006 completed.

I must admit, I did really wonderful on every gift I gave that year with one exception. I not only purchased a pair of boots that the wife did not like, but they were both for the right foot. "Two right feet?" No possible way. How in the world did I do this. " How embarrassing. How stupid of me, but the wife didn't say anything wrong and simply smiled and said "It's the thought that counts."

As the sat year after year in the closet only to collect dust, the wife would just not throw this pair of worthless boots out. Year after year as she would wear dozen upon dozen of different shoes, these boots just seem to be taking up space. I even tried to throw them away myself and she said no. It became a reminder of looking for that great deal that turns into something sorry. A reminded of thoughtless shopping that just grew on me to the point that somehow I was going to make these boots something that if I had to look at them any longer, perhaps I could somehow manage to make them something that could be appreciated, or could I? Either way, in the closet, they just made me feel foolish each time I glanced upon them and it was time I did something about it..

As I pondered the many things I could do, like take my shot gun out and use them as targets, I finally came across an idea as I watch a show several months prior with my wife. We were watching Martha Stewart make an autumn wreath when the wife said, "I sure would like a rustic wreath." That is when this idea came to me. I could covert this dumb pair of boots into something useful, or could I?

Over the next month taking the mesquite tree trimmings, I could simply cut and wrap them into a rounded wreath. However, that didn't come about. The trimmings dried out before I had time to use them making them to hard to weave around into anything circular without steaming them and who has time at Christmas to get crafty? I needed to do something quick and easy because once more 2011, I still had much to do as I continue too dreaded those long check out counters.

So, I drove over to the local craft store to find some items. I already had a few things like the boot. Plus I had an old cow bell that had been laying around for nearly four decades as a reminder of my Bull Riding days. So it was now just finding enough other items that would turn this into a PICASSO.

(1) 14" inch twig wreath unfinished
(1) package of jingle bells (Sleigh bells)
(1) roll of leather lacing
(1) pair cast iron spurs

First, I took the store bought wealth and laid it flat on my shop table. Then I laid the boot inside the wreath and cut a piece of leather lace off to string the boot to the wreath. I next took my lucky horse shoe and set it on the left side of the wreath. Always place a horse shoe upwards as one does not want they luck to fall out. Then, I fixed the pair of cast iron spurs on the same side. One above and one below the horse shoe. It was starting to look like something.

Next, I took out the package of sleigh bells and strung them all together about two inches apart that would fit complete around the face of the wreath. I then tied them in with sail twine I had for making leather repairs, and such. Now to just give it some finishing touches. String the cowbell to hang on one side, I just needed to balance it's appeal. That's when I decided to add some bling that would balance out the true western rustic appearance.

My son had just receive a new belt in the fall where he had placed his trophy buckle on it leaving us with a western buckle without any use. I too had several of these buckles just sitting around. I had purchased myself a new belt in 2010 when I receive an awesome trophy buckle from Molly Customs Silver. So why not place something special on the wreath that represents both husband and son.

Well, the wreath seem complete but I still had one more boot to collect dust. I suppose I could throw it out but it did not belong to me any longer. That would be rude and even more thoughtless than when I purchased the darn boots in the first place. What to do with the other. Then it came to me. Traveling, I often pack an extra pair of boots and it often is used to protect or store a bottle of good spirits in the luggage. Why not turn it into a bottle decanter? So, I search the inter-net and wow, there it was. My idea. Somebody already does this kind of thing. However, they often use old worn out boots.

I had the boot, I had some leather lacing, now I just needed to get a pair of conchos. So back to the craft store to purchase the pair and fine some remnant of leather scrape. Great, they sold pieces of leather remnants and had the conchos.

First, cut the boot shaft straight across removing the foot. Maybe you can use that for a planter, but not this time for me. I threw that to the trash with good "riddance." Then I needed to cut a circular piece of leather that was about 5.5 inches diameter, or for those who have forgotten math. Diameter means across, but the only reason I can even remember this is from helping my son with his math. I've had enough circumference, diameters, radius and pi are square. Besides, we all know that real pies are round.

Next thing to do was lace the leather circle to the bottom of the boot. So I connected the lace to a needle and darn near stabbed myself trying to pierce this stupid boot. OK, forget trying to stab the needle through. It's time for the Dremel tool. I took the small drill out of the workshop cabinet and placed a drill bit the same size as the lace and then created a pattern of holes, drilling them through the leather boot and the bottom. Ten holes on each side. I could have had more and sure, maybe one or two less, but I think 10 -12 would be idea. Next, take a long piece of lace, about 18" inches in length. Tie a small overhand knot on the end and begin lacing from the round bottom leather with the knot on the inside or top so that it will not show once competed. Pull the lace through and then stitch through the hole placed in the boot.

Next find the next hole in the bottom piece and push through and lace back into the boot. Continue this until you have completed all the way around the shaft of the boot securing the bottom leather. Finish with a tied knot on the inside and next, lay the boot flat. Drill six evenly spaced holes straight through the upper shaft so you can place lacing along the top. The holes should go through both sides of the boot uppers. Additionally, give about an inch distance from the top when lining up the holes to drill. A smart thought is place some small pen marks so that there is not guessing when it comes to making these drill holes. The holes will allow you to string through lacing giving it a nice fringe look. I used a simple cow hitch slipping the bite through and over, then pull the leather ends through tightly. Once both sides are done, I finish this with adding a concho on the front which also requires a small drill hole to set. The concho's have a screw backing that will secure it on the boot. Now, you just need to add that favorite wine or perhaps her favorite Olive Oil to complete the gift. You could add beads to the lacing fringe if desired or additional decor. Regardless, it gave this pair of boots new meaning.

I can not rest assured that these boots were appreciated the second time around. However, I do know she hung the wreath up and this has freed up room in her closet for another pair of boots. This time, maybe I'll just take her shopping and let her pick out her own pair. Surely, no one can make the same error as I did buying two right feet, but then maybe someone did purchase the two left boots because I do know a few folks that seem to dance like they are wearing them. Of course, I did add in some nice jewelry and perfume, because I certainly don't want to see myself receiving the boot, unless it is filled with my favorite liquor.

Happy Holidays from Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking:


Western Rustic Ranch Wreath


Cowboy - Cowgirl Boot Bottle Decanter

A Merry Christmas CHUCK WAGON

2011-12-25T15:50:00.000-08:00

The spirit of Christmas "Texas Style" is surely expressed through the decor of this beautiful 1891 Weber Wagon owned by Debi Zinser of Ranch-Dressin, Farmersville, Texas. Nothing feels as warm than the cozy firepit of a chuckwagon. The wholesome food which pleases any wrangler, the full taste of rich coffee and the hospitably found in RANCH DRESSIN, Farmerville, Texas. Debi purchased the wagon several years ago with the desires to use the wagon in Chuck Wagon Cooking Competitions, but currently leases the wagon out for special events in the Farmersville, Texas area.

Weber Wagon Company was founded by Henry Weber, who was born in 1822 in Hochweiler, Alsase, France (formerly part of Germany). Henry came to America in 1841 speaking only German. He first began his life career learning the trade for building farm wagons working for a wagon maker in Lyons, New York. After three years, Henry and a partner set up business manufacturing their own line of farm wagons in Chicago, Illinois. In 1849, the California Gold Rush struck the interest of his partner who left the business leaving Henry as the sole proprietor of the Weber Company.

The Weber wagon was considered one of the best wagons available building a reputation for quality. In a matter of a few years, Weber grew into the largest producer of farm wagons in the U.S. Capacity was over 100 wagons per day. Approaching retirement, Henry merged the firm into the then new International Harvestor Company in 1904. Though Henry Weber would pass on in 1907, his wagons would continue production through International Harvestor Company into the late 1930's.

"It has been really fun looking for things to outfit the chuck wagon through Bryson Trading Post, Hansen Wagon Wheel, Edwards Canvas and the several antique stores here in Farmersville. I am always on the lookout for that next trinket," states Debi adding, "I also have my own cowhide that I plan on using for the potbelly."

The Ranch - Dressin Chuckwagon has been used by caters for several events and Debi has also hosted a few events for the city of Farmerville stating the Chuck Wagon was a big hit. Some of the activities have included weddings, Farmerville Heritage Week, and already booking for 2012 hosting a four day equine clinic in March. For more information of the Ranch Dressin- Wagon, contact Debi at:

Ranch Dressin' Chuckwagon

Farmersville, Texas

chuckwagon@ranch-dressin.com

972.782.7884
Ranch Dressin Chuckwagon Face book page

Be sure to check out the Ranch Dressing Web Site as Debi also offers many western ranch deco too.

Christmas with Ranch Dressin - Chuck wagon

Ranch Dressin Chuck Wagon, Farmersville, Texas

Weber Chuck Wagon - all photos rights belong to Debi Zinser, Ranch Dressin Chuckwagon

Happy Birthday to a HORSE THIEF KILLER

2011-12-16T02:18:00.000-08:00

Jaci Rae Jackson

Emotions run rapid over the theft of Southern University of Arkansas Rodeo Team horses. Jaci Rae Jackson, from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and freshman student at SUA was arrested on December 5th. The arrest came the day before Jaci's 19th birthday awaking in Columbia County Detention Facility wearing an orange jump suit and ankle bracelets.

Southern Arkansas University police chief Eric Plummer stated that Jaci, also a member of the SUA Rodeo Team was arrested and charged with six felony counts related to the November 2nd horse theft from the University Muleride Stable in Magnolia, Arkansas. Additionally, a Featherlight horse trailer and various horse tack was also stolen. The charges include three counts of Class B Felony theft of property over $25,000 and three counts of Class C Felony theft of property between $5000 and $25,000. Jackson is also being held on three felony charges issued by the state of Oklahoma, including bringing stolen property into the state, knowingly concealing stolen property, and cruelty to animals.

Rewards for the missing animals were quickly posted nation wide. High Tech media broadcasted information daily past along through Facebook, Twitter and Myspace. Shortly later, the horse trailer stolen was discovered, located in Oklahoma. Later, the horse tack also located along with four of the five horses which were found on November 15th. The horses had been tied to trees on a farm abandon. Each left to die from starvation and dehydration. The fifth horse, Credit Card, owned by SAU student Shaun Smith, was found dead on November 25th.

Jaci Rae Jackson arrest photo 2011

Authorities indicated Jaci's involvement in an affidavit by an informant stated, "She wanted the horses dead." Credit Card was shot in the head, throat cut and later mutilated. The affidavit further indicates the horse was shot by William "Billy" Hamilton boyfriend to Wendie Cox, Jackson's mother. Additionally stating that Jackson watched as Credit Card was executed. All five horse were located on property near Wendie Cox's home.

Represented by attorney, Michael Lusk, Jackson's plea of "Not guilty" was entered during her hearing. Bond was set at $100,000 in Arkansas as she awaits extradition to McCurtain County, Oklahoma to face charges there for bringing stolen property into the state, concealing stolen property, and cruelty to animals. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Phillips asked the judge for additional conditions to Jackson's bond, including no contact with the victims in the case or presence on the SAU campus.

The majority of the SAU Rodeo Team was in attendance for the hearing Wednesday afternoon, which nearly filled one side of the courtroom. Among them was team coach Rusty Hayes. Interviewed outside the courtroom by reporters, Hayes stated, " We are still in a state of disbelief and numbness."

Mickie Lynn Carter and Charles Tramble were both arrested on warrants charged for knowingly concealing stolen property, which is a felony. Carter and Jackson’s Mom, Wendie Cox are cousins. According to court room documents, Cox told Carter that “there was a horse trailer at her - (Carter's) house and that it was full of tack that she could help herself too.” Cox has denied having any first-hand knowledge of the events surrounding the theft.

Other warrants are still pending as the investigation continues. However, no warrants have been issued for William "Billy" Hamilton in this case as of yet, Hamilton is wanted for failure to pay child support and on another case for cattle and live stock thief.

Cowboy Justice

As this case becomes more heated by the minuted, I can not help ponder the facts as many rumors fly. In the informants affidavit, it alleges Jaci Jackson wanted revenge because of rape. Although the SAU Rodeo Coach and the University Police Chief have both dismissed this as a lie, Jackson's nor her attorney Michael Lusk have made any comments to this report.

100 years ago, a community would rather act as a lynch mob for justice. Handling a horse thief, was quickly as finding a rope to "Hang Her." Today, many feel the same way. However, we have a justice system in place that protects the rights of those wrongfully accused. As much, that system does punish those who commit crimes. It doesn't always work or the end results becomes shocking. Nevertheless, this system is innocent until proven guilty.

What would Nancy Grace say?

Nancy surely would be very graphic and detail to the cruelty of this case. She would take every shed of evidence and have a field day as she did in another recent trial the world watched. For several years all we heard about was how Casey Anthony was the worst scum on earth. Most found Casey guilty and became shocked when a jury found her innocent. As Google will likely indicate Casey Anthony in the top ten names most searched during 2011, Jackson too, is becoming a drama case with followers of innocents and those ready to hang'her high.

What would Doctor Phil say?

I'm sure our fellow Texan, Doctor Phil realizes this is a girl that needs some serious help. If he had only spent some time with her November 1st, surely the history would be different. Some things do not add up. However, it is not for us to understand. It is for the jury and the court to find her innocents or guilt. It's for her attorney to paint a picture where a jury has no choice but feel she is innocent or that there is a lack of evidence. It's the job of the prosecutor to bring to light all the evidence that shows her guilt and the police can not afford to make error in their investigation. If anything, Doctor Phil would likely share one of his quotes - "Sometimes you have to make the right decision, and sometimes you have to make the decision, right."

One rumor is she stole the horses to buy a good barrel racing horse. Would it take such a crime to come up with enough horses to find one top notch barrel racing horse? I don't buy it. She apparently has had a good enough horse to earn what every equestrians seeks, too wear that piece of gold, we call a trophy buckle. I contacted a former friend of Jaci who was in a photo where they both won buckles for barrel racing. However, because the other young girl in the photo desired to not be associated with Jaci, we respected her right to not post it. Additionally, another good reason not to buy on the rumor is her family had enough money to buy a good horse if need be. She did make the $100,000 bail and for High School graduation, the family all visited Punta Cana. Surely a trip to the tropical beaches and the resort hotel for the whole family is enough means to afford another barrel horse.

Rape, I can see some of those boys sure wanting to jump in the sack with this girl based on her looks, prior to her prison photo. Perhaps there might have been some advances. Maybe. some rejections, but had she been raped, I believe that horse would have been dead much sooner. If this is a revenge with such hate, I don't believe killing the horse two weeks later, expresses an act of rape.

I'm not her and have no idea what could have been in the thought process of this young girls mind. I think she and her family likely would be the type of folks to sue the college for everything it's worth had it been rape on a school campus. They would have come forwarded with the report to the police. Plus if she wanted revenge so badly, hell, she could have shot the horse or poisoned it in the barn at Muleride Stables.

I feel this goes deeper. I think she had to be angry at the team. She stole the horses the day before a big event. It hurt more than one person but several who could not perform. It could also have been to steal several as a cover up so fingers would not point back at her, but why take them to Oklahoma? Then getting others involve, text messages, etc. knowing the world will hold not your secrets. Sooner or later, people will talk. If she is that cruel and can hold that much hate, she could have done much worst. Although her act, is a far cry from innocent.

ARKANSAS HORSE THIEF

I suppose Jaci Jackson will be made out to be a legend either way, good or bad. Even if she is innocent, we will see her as a horse thief. Someone will likely write a song about her. Another will do a book and surely the world will watch it as a movie perhaps on the Lifetime Movie Network. However, some horse thieves have been remember as heroic cowboys who tamed the Wild West rather than actions of their past.

Wyatt Earp is one of those who was accused of horse theft, April of 1871, in Arkansas Indian Territory covered under federal law. "April 1, 1871, Bill Of Information. U. S. vs Wyatt S. Earp, Ed Kennedy, John Shown, white men and not Indians or members of any tribe of Indians by birth or marriage or adoption on the 28th day of March A. D. 1871 in the Indian Country in said District did feloniously willfully steal, take away, carry away two horses each of the value of one hundred dollars, the property goods and chattels of one William Keys and prey a writ [signed] J. G. Owens." Wyatt Earp was arrest on April 6, 1871, when United States Deputy Marshal J. G. Owens took him into custody charging him with stealing horses. Commissioner James Churchill arraigned his bond on April 14, 1871, and set at $500. Although, Wyatt escape, on May 15th, 1871 and was indicted on the charge of stealing horses. Another warrant for his arrest was again issued - but was never served.

On Jaci's birthday, she received many birthday wishes. Many trying to send a positive message to hold your head high. Some were hate messages while others seem to question if this could all be true. Guilty or not, regardless of the out come, many equestrians, will remember her as a cheap horse thief killer. Others may stand by her side, while others simply forgive and forget. Regardless, her family will also endure the worlds pain along with one horse that paid an unnecessary sacrifices. No hate can ever justify such cruelty placed upon an innocent animal. Credit Card, was just that! Innocent. This pain will also ride upon Shaun and the rest of the Smith family, along with the members of the SAU Rodeo Team.

Photo by Laura Delaughter for Justice for Credit Card

CREDIT CARD by Kristi Skimehorn

They call me “Credit Card” that is my name
I was raised to rodeo that was my fame
Chasing some cows that run all around
As my owner ropes them and ties them down

I spent days and nights on the rodeo road
With one thing in mind and that was winning mode
My owner in college rodeo such a dream come true
Climbing the academic ladder things to pursue

Then sadly one day all things would change
Someone would steal me and leave my remains
Their heart was so cold with one thing in mind
All because they seemed second in line

They took away a life that was loved so much
Took me from rodeo and family and such
The things that they did I can not explain
The brutal emotions and all of the pain

But to all of my buddies and my master too
I hurt no more and my rodeo days aren’t through
I’m up here in Heaven doing what I do
With another young rider making dreams come true

A Christmas Lighting - As traditions Grows

2011-12-15T15:06:00.000-08:00

One Christmas tradition has grown brighter and brighter each year. Christmas lights. A tradition taken from 16th century Germany where candles were glued to the tree using melted wax. One Christmas Eve, Protestant reformer Martin Luther was walking home thinking of words he would use in his sermon. As he saw how beautiful the evergreen trees looked dusted in snow under the moon light with the twinkling stars shining above, he found his words. Once home, he erected a small fir tree in the main room of the house, wired with candles and began lighting them as he told his children the story of Christ.

The custom grew throughout Europe and came to the America's likely during the revolution. The tradition grew adding special Candle holders to the trees and even small candle lanterns. This custom sometime between 1902 and 1914 found specially design glass balls manufacture to hold candles as ornaments. Although, those traditions would soon be replaced because of Edward H. Johnson.

Johnson was an associate of inventory Thomas Edison. While he worked for as Vice President of the Edison Electric Light Company, he had 80 special bulbs made in the colors or Red, White and Blue. The lights were placed on his Christmas Tree on December 22, 1882.

In 1895, President Grover Cleveland would be the first President to have display a lighted Christmas Tree. The multi colored lights were made by General Electric. Although, lighting the White House Christmas Tree would not become a public celebration until 1923 with President Calvin Coolidge.

By early 1900's, decorating American businesses with Christmas lighting placed in office and retail windows began growing. Today, this custom has spread world wide.

One special tradition that has also grown out of the Christmas lights is taking a drive through the many neighborhoods viewing homes that have decorated for the season. Some with Angels, others with Santa and some decorations go far beyond the character, Clark Griswold played by Chevy Chase in National Lampoon's "Christmas Vacation."

Teresa Hutchison Mathias is a long time friend with us at Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking. Each year she enjoys decorating the holiday lighting throughout her home and yard. The results is a master piece finding travelers from all over the Austin, Texas area taking a trip over to view. We were so impress with her creation, we ask Teresa to share her story about building the beautiful WINTER WONDERLAND.

Teresa Hutchison Mathias - About 20 years ago I moved into my present location, and there were two houses up the hill from mine that exceptionally decorated their respective homes. The corner house was done completely in blue and had a large Santa on their upper deck. The touch that always intrigued me about this house was the beautiful Christmas music they played softly as to not disturb their neighbors, but visitors could hear and enjoy it while viewing their amazing display. The house next door was covered in multi-colored lights with decorated, wooden cut-outs all over their yard, and was equally quite a gorgeous site. Both houses were always kind enough to allow us to take pictures in their colorful yards, but sadly, the blue house sold after a few years, and the elderly couple with the multi-colored house eventually passed away, so unfortunately it isn’t the same. But one thing is for certain, I can guarantee you those memories will stay with me forever. These two houses are what inspired me to start my own tradition all those years ago.

As each year passes, I wonder if I am getting too old to do this, but it has become such a landmark in my area, that I think my neighborhood would kick me out if I didn’t, ha ha. I think what puts me in the Christmas spirit is the thought of all the little children who come year after year to see my house. To see the wonder and sparkle in their eye of knowing that Santa will be coming soon is absolutely priceless. Because of the press I have received over the years, I also have many visitors from all over Austin and the surrounding towns, and I never tire of the opportunity to meet and enjoy conversation with new people. I live on a somewhat busy street, but it never deters cars from stopping to wave, take pictures, or holler compliments out their window as they pass by. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I have received delightful gifts, homemade goodies and letters from people I don’t even know thanking me and telling me how much it reminds them of their childhood. It is truly heartwarming and I have kept every letter, press video and newspaper article to pass down to my children when they are older.

Each year is different in terms of how long it takes me to decorate. As you know, Texas weather can be quite fickle, and I can usually guarantee that it will rain the first day I am ready to light everything up. Needless to say, Mother Nature did not disappoint on that one this year! In the old days, my goal was to have everything up and running the day after Thanksgiving, but now I am satisfied if it is completed by December 1st. Typically, weather permitting, I have the majority up in 3 to 4 days if I work at it most of the day. I try to test everything prior to placing it, but you can always be sure that there will be some cantankerous ones that don’t want to light up. As the years go by, it seems that repairing has become more time consuming than actually getting them up! This year it took about a week, but fortunately, they are all working and in their full glory. I have to say, I’ve become quite the master at fixing them!

In the early days, I did have a friend who came and helped me. He was much younger and stronger than I and not afraid to get on my roof, but everyone grows up and gets busy with their own families, so now I pretty much do it by myself. I do have a little help when it comes to the extension cords and where to plug it all in. Lord knows, there is always a breaker or two that gets overloaded, so I have to switch it around a bit to get it just right. I have everything else down to a science, but for some reason, getting them hooked up and not blowing up has remained a challenge!. The Griswold’s would be proud, ha ha!

I have collected my decorations since the very beginning, so many of them are very old. I don’t see the kind I have much anymore. It seems things are made much smaller and cheaper now, so I haven’t bought anything new in several years. I do try to change a few things around from time to time so it makes it look as if there is something new, but it is the same things I’ve had forever. Interestingly, none of my decorations are from big fancy places. They were all purchased over the years at Walmart, Target, Garden Ridge, Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. You can’t find them like that at any of those places anymore, so I treat them with kid gloves in an effort to get another year out of them.

My favorite thing about the holidays is probably being in my kitchen making all the special things you only do during the season. The wonderful smells that emit from there are like no other time of the year. Food is a passion of mine and I would rather give gifts from the heart, so I spend many hours baking cookies, breads and other treats to share. It feeds my soul to spend time with friends and family gathered around a big roaring fire, sipping on eggnog, mulled wine or hot cider while telling stories, sharing memories and enjoying goodies that were made by hand. For me, it is a time to reflect and appreciate what is truly important in life...

The Choo Choo

Santa

Merry Christmas

Beer Bread: A Whole New Meaning for Enjoying Beer

2011-12-13T13:23:00.000-08:00

Writer Lee Ann Johnson enjoys cooking. On those cold nippy nights of north Texas, one of her favorite treats is rustling up some true Texas Chili with a wholesome loaf of Beer Bread. Growing up in Amarillo, Lee Ann appreciates the authentic taste of simmering beef with the essence of chilies blended together where only beer bread gives the dish its finishing touch. It's a perfect combination.

Beer bread has an interesting history dating back to ancients times when Beer and Bread fueled the psychical labors of man in his quest for civilization. Today, the two titillate mans pallet as we rediscover that full flavor taste of bread and it's simplicity to bake using beer as its important ingredient. Beer bread requires no additional yeast. Besides, it brings a whole new meaning for buying beer. As you explore the many different choices of beer, each type can bring it's own unique and wonderful taste. Even that cheap brand someone left behind during your last house party will turn into a great tasting bread. Lee Ann likes to normally use Shiner Bock, but confesses this time she tried out a new Holiday Brew.

Beer Bread

Ingredients:

3 cups self-rising flour sifted (you have to use self-rising flour only - multipurpose flour won't work)
1 can (bottle) beer, room temperature and never chilled
1 Tbsp. Sugar

beer bread

Directions:

Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Add beer and mix into a soft dough. Turn out dough into a greased loaf pan. Set aside 15 minutes to allow dough to rise. In a preheated oven, bake at 375 degrees for 40 minutes. Brushing with butter before baking gives out side crust a crispier finish. Cut with serrated knife and served warm.

Lee Ann today resides in Rockwall, Texas with her wonderful husband Jim who is an advertising copy writer at Moroch Group in Dallas, Texas and their six year old daughter Eleanor. However, life for Lee Ann has not always been that of small town country girl. Soon after high school she moved to the Pacific Northwest attending college in Bellingham, Washington.

There she found the views spectacular seeing Mt. Rainer and Mt. Baker. Weekends would find her curiosities intrigued visiting Vancouver, Canada just a few miles north of Bellingham or taking trips into Seattle, Washington just an hour drive south. "The foods were wonderful. Salmon cheaper than hamburger and the best clam chowder from Iver's Acres of Clams," she explains. Each spring she found herself exploring the Skagit Valley as millions of Tulips burst into bloom. Throughout the month of April, Skagit Valley celebrates holding the Tulip Festival where visitors like Lee Ann become enthrall with an array of colors which flow through the thousands of acres farmed.

Graduating from Western University of Washington, she found herself working a fast pace professional career that also took her too many fascinating places. The bright lights and big city life from Houston to Seattle and distant dwellings living in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Through her travels, she learned many delightful recipes from women around the world.

After becoming a mother six years ago, Lee Ann felt she was missing out on something special. Quality time for marriage and parenthood. After discussing those feelings with Jim, they thoroughly thought things through. She made what seemed to be a radical choice and said goodbye to her high paid career. Doing so, they decided too downsize their lives selling the big home, just a year ago and moved to the quiet comforts in the suburbs of Rockwall, Texas with their two yappy dogs.

Ending the high stress career not only allowed Lee Ann more time to enjoy additional things such as cooking beer bread, but also writing. Recently, she was featured as the cover story on the October 2011 issue "Horseback Magazine." Her story is of some heroic actions dealing with the Wild Fires of Bastrop, Texas saving ranch horses from the blaze while using modern technology, facebook and twitter. Editor Steven Long of "Horseback Magazine" has authorized Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking to share her amazing story linked below.

AS TEXAS BURNS by Lee Ann Johnson

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Miss Rodeo America 2012 Crowns Mackenzie Carr

2011-12-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

Mackenzie Carr, 2011 Miss Rodeo Oregon

McKenzie Haley, Miss Rodeo America passes the Reins to this years winner, Mackenzie Carr, 2011 Miss Rodeo Oregon as she was crowned on December 10, 2011 at the conclusion of the week-long pageant held in Las Vegas, Nevada in conjunction with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

Mackenzie is the daughter of Alan and Barb Carr of Vernonia, Oregon. She grew up on a small farm in a rural timber community an hour from the Oregon coast. Mackenzie was a 2008 graduate and Valedictorian of Vernonia High School, as well as a nine year member of Columbia County Horse 4-H.

Continuing her involvement with the Columbia County Fair and Rodeo, Mackenzie served as one of the 2007 Columbia County Fair and Rodeo Princesses and Queen in 2008. In 2009, she went on to represent the Northwest Professional Rodeo Association as their Miss NPRA. In July 2010, Mackenzie was found vying for the prestigious title of Miss Rodeo Oregon. As Miss Rodeo Oregon 2011, Mackenzie traveled over 30,000 miles throughout Oregon, the United States, and Canada promoting the great state of Oregon and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.

In her spare time she enjoys riding her horses, giving riding lessons to children, and spending time in the great outdoors. Mackenzie previously attended Oregon State University for two years studying Civil Engineering, and will be transferring to earn an Architectural degree, minoring in Speech Communications. She hopes to focus on interior architecture and commercial building design.

As Miss Rodeo America, she will be the ambassador promoting the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and America's Western heritage. As a liaison between the rodeo fans, Pro Rodeo producers, sponsors and contestants, Miss Rodeo America will travel extensively representing rodeo through many public appearances at rodeo performances, special events, schools and civic groups.

First Runner Up is Jamie Udell, Miss Rodeo Utah
Second Runner Up Brittany Slaton, Miss Rodeo California
Third Runner Up Alyssa Morrison, Miss Rodeo Kansas
Forth Runner Up Kaycee McDaniel, Miss Rodeo New Mexico

Miss Oregon won Horsemanship, Personality, Appearance, Speech, Scrapbook and received the Raeana Wadhams Spirit Award. The written Test was tied between Miss Kansas and Miss New Mexico. Congeniality - Tennessee, Honorary Congeniality - Arkansas, Photogenics - Illinois, 5th runner up Miss Rodeo Idaho, 6th runner up Miss Rodeo Texas, 7th runner up Miss Rodeo Tennessee, 8th runner up Miss Rodeo Arizona and 9th runner up Miss Rodeo Oklahoma. The Chap Award was received by Jamie Udell, Miss Rodeo Utah and the People Choice Award received by Lauren Graham, Miss Rodeo Texas.

The Miss Rodeo America Pageant offers young women the opportunity to garner one of the richest experiences of their lives, while at the same time create solid foundations for their future endeavors. Lifelong friendships are made and many doors are opened—to all competitors, as well as the young lady selected to wear the coveted crown. Miss Rodeo America becomes a part of a great legacy...and part of history...yesterday, today, and tomorrow.


MISS RODEO AMERICA PAGEANT

Friends Eat

2011-12-05T10:59:00.000-08:00

So often I find myself fascinated with the stories of those who tamed the west. Although, while the west has long been tame, the culture continues to thrive. History is always in the making whether it is the "Lone Cowgirl" or "The Way of the Chuckwagon."

When Editor in Chief Blanca Valbuena of Friends Eat took interest in interviewing Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking, I felt honored. Although this honor was not in our story, as much as the interest in the many stories that we have been entrusted to shared back to the world. Honored for being part of the Cowboy Way of Life and how this culture of western heritage continues to romance the world. The true Cowboy is the mentoring of "Can Do" spirit. Getting the job done without giving up. The team work along with pride of their heritage as they live by the code. For that, I am so honored to have had this opportunity to share. So inspired, I look forward to the year to come and the many more stories as we move further along the trail.

Interview with Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking


Chuckwagon Cook Roger Edison and Son Austin Demo cooking along the cattle drives

Frank B. Hoffman (1888-1958) Chuck Wagon Campfire

Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking is an online blog providing stories of western heritage, culture and cooking. Insights from the history, to the modern day living about the cowboys and cowgirls who are making a difference. It's about music, fashion, food and the way of life as they follow chuck wagon competition, the cooks and promote the code of the west.

SAVE A HORSE - TWO SIDES TO A FENCE

2011-12-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

Activist from both sides of the fence have long argued pros and cons dealing with horse slaughter. The argument is often spurred from emotional aspects rather than with logic. However, while both sides make strong points, which one is right? I personally love Horses, Rodeo, Carriage Rides and saddling up for a horseback ride. However, I too understand that when we outlawed horse slaughtering in the United States, we opened Pandora's Box allowing the same horse only to suffer greater as it is slaughtered across our borders in either Canada or Mexico.

The majority of Americans are opposed to the slaughter of horses. Perceived as companion animals like dogs and cats, they are deserving of humane consideration as our pets, though many serve as working animals or for sport. Since they are not bred or raised for food, the thought of slaughter has created strong objection from horse owners and the industry of American horses.

Prior to the closing of American slaughter houses of horse meat in 2006, about 90 percent was exported overseas for human consumption, while the rest was used in zoos. Since Horses were plentiful, they once were a popular ingredient in early dog foods, though outlawed in the U.S. since the 1970s.

Horse meat in America raises a number of potential health concerns. Horses, unlike traditional food animals in the United States, are not raised with the intent of one day becoming human food. Since American horses are not "intended" for the human food chain, they often receive medications that is banned by the FDA during the life of food animals. Furthermore, there was a lack of tracking those medications, not knowing the history of those horses.

The European Commission Food and Veterinary Office found serious violations during inspections conducted in November and December 2010 of EU regulated plants in Mexico slaughtering horses for human consumption. Most American horses destined for slaughter end up at EU regulated plants in Mexico and Canada. The meat of some horses killed in Mexico are mixed with beef , then sold back to unsuspecting United States consumers. However, horse-meat dealers indicate that horses are lower in cholesterol content over American beef, high iron content and low fat content, suggesting horses as a redmeat for people with heart problems. Horse meat has been noted to taste sweeter than beef, although can be dry much as venison using added fat from other animals such as hogs to increase its softness when cooked.

Several years ago, I was having a conversation with Tom Scrima, of ACTHA "American Competitive Trail Horse Association" about the horse industry. The ACTHA has done wonderful things for the horse community along with raising money for many charities, horse rescue and and rehabilitation organizations to help ease the suffering of our equine friends through hosting many sponsored trail rides across the nation. In the mist of this conversation, we disused some issues dealing with horse rescues and horse slaughter. As Tom talked with me via cell phone, he was driving from Texas to Colorado. Ironically, he had just drove past the Amarillo, Texas Stockyard where thousands of horses are auction off to buyers from Mexico for slaughter.

Although, these stockyards merely conduct the auction where horse traders hope to gain top dollar for their livestock. The auction also offer high-end quality horses not purchased for slaughter. Gideon Lucey, a Ranch manager at Frenchmen’s Quarter Horses in South Dakota recently was the high bidder on a fine broodmare at the Amarillo stockyard.

The former law was written to prevented horse slaughter in the United States. It did not outline nor prevent these sales to foreign buyers from Canada and Mexico who still operate slaughter houses. The GAO reported that horse auctions to foreign buyers for slaughter is about the same amount of horses slaughtered in the USA before the ban. In 2010, nearly 140,000 horses were shipped across the borders for slaughter. The dilemma of stopping slaughter in our own backyard, has not save these horses. It further removes the control of humane treatment of U.S. regulations and guide lines once the horse crosses our border.

My first view of American Slaughterhouses was an 8th grade reading project. I picked a book out by title believing I was going to read about the Amazon. It was the shocking novel written in 1906 by Upton Sinclair, titled "The Jungle." Sinclair was a journalist who went incognito to work in the meat packaging plants of the Chicago stockyards. His seven weeks of gathering information in 1904 became the rejection from five different publishers. In 1905, his story was finally release in the socialist newspaper "Appeal to Reason."

His book starts as a story about an immigrant family of 12 trying to survive in the hopes of the America dream, yet reveals the harsh reality of life in poverty, unpleasant living conditions and struggles among the working class. The story unfolds with one household member, Jurgis Rudkus, who works in the slaughter house for slave labor wages in the unsanitary conditions of the meat industry. Clearly pointing out the severe corruptions in the meat industry, Sinclair indicates everyone has his or her price. Those in a position of power, including government inspectors, the police or judges, must be paid off, and where blacklisting is common. As several family members die, the remaining struggle to stay alive which inevitably leads to their physical and moral decay.

One part I clearly remember is the graphic details of the story character, Jurgis standing knee deep in the blood of slaughtered meat with hopes of getting a pair of boots so that he would not soak his legs or pants each day in animal blood. The cruelty of slamming a sledge hammer to the skull of cattle often requiring two or three blows was nothing near the work environment of the summer heat swarmed with flies and dreadful stink. Nor the extreme winter freeze of Chicago as the meat packaging exploited the labors of children and women. The morbid accounts gripped the souls of the American public as Sinclair detailed these working condition while indicating employees falling into Rendering Tanks were grounded with other animals parts, merely to be turned into Lard.

Intended to expose the exploitation of the American factory workers at the turn of the 20th Century, Upton's work became the concerns for food safety. The Bureau of Animal Industry released a report stating Sinclair's allegations where fictional and utterly absurd. In a letter written by President Theodore Roosevelt to William Allen White, it was clear to believe Teddy saw Upton Sinclair as a crackpot too. "I have an utter contempt for him. He is hysterical, unbalanced, and untruthful. Three-fourths of the things he said were absolute falsehoods. For some of the remainder there was only a basis of truth."

Social worker James Bronson Reynolds and Labor Commissioner Charles P. Neill where sent by the President to investigate. Reynolds and Neill made an oral report back to the President that was never released to the public, although this inspection did lead to a congressional hearing and the passing of the Meat Inspection Act in addition to the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906. Later, the establishment of the Bureau of Chemistry that would become the Food and Drug Administration in 1930.

Great improvements have been mastered through the decades since Upton Sinclair's book, "The Jungle." However, at the end of the 20th century found a researcher taking interest as to why The Cow goes Moo. American doctor of animal science, Temple Grandin is a professor at Colorado State University and consultant to live stock industry.

Temple Garndin

Fascinated with the patterns and flow of livestock in holding pens, Grandin redesign the layouts which reduce stress and suffering of animals being lead to slaughter. This improvement increased operational efficiency and profit implementing the use of long sweeping circles and single file funneling which prevents the herd from seeing what lies ahead. Additionally, taking note of animal survival instincts, her designs override the natural attempt of reverse direction.

Garndin, also having high functional autism, relates all to well these psychological anxieties of feeling threatened by everything in her surroundings. Her quest to promote humane livestock handling processes, advocate for autism and bestselling author, found Grandin listed in 2010 as Top 100 Heros by Time Magazine.

American Cowboy Magazine polled their audience of readers asking, "In the long run, does horse slaughter help or hurt the horse industry and horse welfare in general?" 48 percent polled believe that it help the horse industry while 52 percent believed it hurts the horse industry.

Canadian Slaughter Plant

Vicki Butler commented, "It is UTTERLYAPPALLING! It should NEVER be up for debate let alone get past! Hello! It was once banned! Do they even remember WHY they banned it 5 years ago? Must not have since they insist on repeating their mistakes."

Linda Henderson a horse woman from Wyoming said, "This is good news for anyone who cares anything about horses. 1.) Horses are LIVESTOCK, always have been always will be. This not your pet poodle, this is a 100LB farm animal that can be dangerous, hurt and even kill you. 2.) The # of abandoned and abuse horses has risen dramatically in the years since the ban on slaughter has been put in place, how can this possibly be better for the horses? It's not! 3.) This way the US can control the conditions that these horses are hauled and killed. As it was these horses were being hauled to Mexico and Canada where there is little to no supervision putting the horses in much worse conditions than, again how is this better for the horses? It's not! Much better to be done here where there are regulations.

Jim K. Dawson commented, "The problem with this question is that you are asking about the welfare of the industry in conjunction with the welfare of the horse. The question should leave out the horse industry because if you care about the horses, you would ask whether horse slaughter is good or bad for the horses industry aside."

One comment quoted: "WHY PUT A GOOD HORSE DOWN" We gave away control when we made those American slaughter houses illegal. The road to slaughter is cruel and without our control, it's worst than a Mexican Jail? Imagine, these are just horses and they treat people in a Mexican jail pretty damn inhumane. Imagine, the horses, they are just horses and who cares about the horses any way.

According to California Livestock and Identification Bureau statistics, the 1998 ban on horse slaughter in California was followed by a 34% decrease in horse thefts. Horses have been illegally sold to auctions, where they are bought by kill buyers and shipped for slaughter. These auctions provide a means of selling horses often without the consent of true owners through theftor misappropriation.

Included in the group lobbying for horse slaughter is the largest horse breeding association in the world, the American Quarter Horse Association. Other groups, such as the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP); the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA); and numerous animal agriculture groups also lobby in pro for horse slaughter. Included, are some animal agriculture groups that represent the traditional animal food industry of cattle, sheep, and pork, concerned that banning any animal for slaughter will lead to outlawing all meat production.

The Equine Welfare Alliance, Veterinarians for Equine Welfare, The Humane Society of the United States, ASPCA, Canadian Horse Defence Coalition and hundreds of horse industry groups and animal welfare groups are against American horse slaughter. Most equine adoption and rescue groups also oppose slaughter for human consumption. These groups are protesting horse slaughter on the grounds that the industry is unacceptably inhumane and cannot be made humane. Additionally, country music singer/songwriter Willie Nelson has done advocating against horse slaughter and has his own signature rescue horses available for adoption. Madeleine Pickens (wife) of Oil and Natural Gas billionaire T Boone Pickens has campaigned to end the slaughter and Save the Wild Horses. T Boone Pickens who professionally directed his interest in Wind Energy continues making huge contributions to political, educational and philanthropic causes donating nearly a half a billion dollars causes during his career. Pickens also lobbied for the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act (HR 503) which would prohibit the slaughter for human consumption and the trade and transport of horse flesh and live horses intended for human consumption.

Frank Angst of the Thoroughbred Times reported, "While the provision was lifted, the appropriations bill does not include any money to pay for horse meat inspections. Jay Hickey, president of the American Horse Council, which is neutral on the horse slaughter issue, points out that the appropriations bill only is effective through September 2012. Hickey said it would be a risky business proposition to open a horse slaughter facility with the possibility that policy could again change next year and force closure."

Regardless of how one feels about horse slaughter in the United States, exporting any horse overseas does not guarantee they will not end up become anything more than steaks or pet food. One side of the fence clearly indicates a logical solution while the other paints the imagine of inhumane cruelty. Such is the case with thoroughbred race horse Ferdinand (1983–2002) who won the 1986 Kentucky Derby and the 1987 Breeders' Cup Classic. He was voted the 1987 Eclipse Award for Horse of the Year and place into stud service in 1989. Ferdinand was later sold in 1994 to Japanese horse dealer Yoshikazu Watanabe. In 2002, Ferdinand was sold for horse slaughter. In an interview with the Associated Press, Watanabe said: ''Ferdinand was disposed of during last year. He was getting old and was in some discomfort.'' It's tragic to see any horse slaughter and worst to known this horse ended up as either someones steak or pet food.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T18:12:00.000-08:00

South Texas wild Turkeys

Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking would like to wish each and everyone a happy and joyful Thanksgiving. This special holiday is primarily celebrated in the United States and Canada. Our Canadian neighbors celebrate Thanksgiving Day on the second Monday of October while in the United States, it is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the national holiday official since 1863, although the sharing of this great feast traces its origins to a 1621 celebration at Plymouth in present-day Massachusetts.

While we will be celebrating with many of our own traditional customs, it is exciting to gather among our friends and family during this time at the end of harvest season. It is sincerely a time to count our blessings through the year and remember those who are far from home. Of those in our family are two nephews, one who is serving with the US Navy and recently returned from Afghanistan. The other currently finishing basic training with the US Marine Corp. I also have my daughter and son in law in my prayers who are spending the blessed celebration in California. Additionally, I have each of you in our prayers for a safe and special day of thanks.

Some additional exciting news. Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking has now official been hit a quarter million times. We hope to double this reading in 2012 and continue bringing exciting stories, recipes and historical information for the west. In behalf of my family here in South Texas, Happy Thanksgiving and God Bless.

Thankgiving, It's a Family Tradition

What to do with Turkey Left-Overs

Jerrett Kramer

Hunting Wild Turkey is exciting for those who hunt. My nephew Jerrett bagged this Turkey and I can only guess the true weight on how big the gobbler was because it does look much bigger than my 25 pound butter ball. Jerrett is an advent hunter and fisherman which I am proud to call family.

Introducing Dale Evans to a New Generation

2011-11-22T08:47:00.000-08:00

- guest blog from: the Dale Evens Film Project

A roaring campfire, fresh viddles prepared by the camp cook, and a cowboy crooning a tune—these are the sites and sounds of the past. A past that is forever branded on the silver screen by Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. The King of the Cowboys and the Queen of the West rode into hearts in the 40s and 50s with their adventures of outlaws and bandits. Those who watched could rest assured that justice would always prevail.

Unfortunately, today, there are many who do not remember those days of good vs evil and cowboy way of life that went with it. That’s why the Dale Evans Film Project has set out to introduce this heroine to a new generation.

Commissioned Films, LLC, in cooperation with The Dale Evans Film Project and Henninger Media Services, has produced the first-ever documentary on the extraordinary life of Dale Evans. The goal of the film is to celebrate Dale's life, remind us of her legacy, and to bring back the values, faith, and character lived by both her and her husband, Roy Rogers, to a generation that did not have the privilege to grow up with them.

Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

Influencing two generations of Americans, Roy and Dale represented what was true and great about our country—something that should never be forgotten!

“Roy and Dale influenced a generation of Americas,” says Steve Morales, Executive Producer of the project. “We must restore the greatness of America one family member at a time. The Roy Rogers 100th Birthday Collection featuring the first-ever documentary on Dale Evans is a great tool to bring grandparents together with grandchildren to teach the core principles of honor, hard work, hope, faith, and self-reliance. We need to use film to bring these values back into the mainstream.”

Working with members of the Rogers family, the team behind the project is excited to release a 2-DVD Collectors Edition of Dale Evans: Beyond the Happy Trails. This documentary interviews family and friends who celebrate the life of Dale Evans and Roy Rogers and their influence on American culture. Their 50-year marriage, their strength through the tragic loss of multiple children, and their world-changing impact on the lives of special-needs children everywhere have inspired millions. For everyone who grew up in the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, Roy and Dale were an every-Saturday attraction on the movie screen or television. For those over 60, this is a must-see, feel-good documentary, and for everyone else it is a wonderful introduction to the values and character of Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.

The documentary was released on November 5, 2011 in conjunction with Roy’s 100th birthday. It is packaged in a two-DVD 100th Birthday Commemorative Collection and is available at www.RoyandDale.com. Public and private screenings are being held across the country over the next 12 months as Dale’s 100th birthday will be celebrated on October 31, 2012. (The DVD set includes the first-ever documentary on Dale Evans; two original full-length feature films, My Pal Trigger and Lights of Old Santa Fe; and two timeless episodes of The Roy Rogers Show.)

For more information about the project and purchasing options, visit www.royanddale.com You can also connect with the project via Facebook at www.facebook.com/DaleEvansMovie or on Twitter at @RoyAndDale100

Dale Evans: Beyond the Happy Trails


DALE EVANS - Queen of the West

Roger and Dale

Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

King Ranch 21th Annual Ranch - Hand Breakfast

2011-11-14T16:12:00.000-08:00

King Ranch throws the best fall fest each year on the last Saturday before thanksgiving. While this tradition has been part of the legendary history for ranch employee’s, King Ranch invited the public to come out and join them two decades ago celebrating the King ranch 20th annual Ranch-hand Breakfast Saturday November 20th, 2010 starting from 7AM until 11AM.

The ranch expects around 6,000 visitors who will enjoy an authentic cowboy breakfast of eggs, refried beans, biscuits with gravy, sausage, tortillas, coffee and juice served by local volunteers on the historic King Ranch grounds.

The King Ranch cowboys will be on hand to perform team roping as other volunteers will exhibit horseshoeing, rawhide braiding, Chuck Wagon Cooking demonstrations, Cowboy poetry, story telling and some authentic country fiddle playing music on stage while Mariachis play music and sing songs of the Spanish culture that influenced the birth of the Republic of Texas as it continues too today.

“Many of our guests attend every year and always come back and bring their friends. This is really a great South Texas tradition for natives and winter Texans ... a wonderful fall reunion of friends,” states Bob Kinan, chairman of the King Ranch - Hand Breakfast.

Chuck Wagon owner and Cowboy Poet, Charlie Ellis is a part of this tradition. Each year he rolls in with his restored wagon and crew to cook many of his favorite dishes. Sourdough Biscuits, Up-side-Down Pineapple cake and Pan De Campo.

Charlie often joined by his wife Janice, son, Dustin Ellis and good friend David Parks assist him baking Dutch Oven treats, rolling dough, putting another log on the fire and brewing another 2 gallon pot of true Cowboy Coffee. This out door cooking using cast iron skillets and dutch ovens is authentic to how the cooks fed the crews who worked the cattle drives nearly 150 years ago as the cattle drives moved herds north from the state of Texas.

Charlie's John Deere wagon is also unique as it has a forward chuck box in addition to the rear box. This allows for additional enclosed storage keeping grain or spices dry. The wagon bench seat sits on top without hindering a driving team.

David Parks is not your everyday chuck wagon cook who will be helping out Charlie at the big event. David, is Pastor David W. Parks, for Trail Head Cowboy Church, Goliad, Texas.

Danny Canales, KING RANCH, TX

Another good friend is Daniel "Danny" Canales from Ricardo, Texas who is the owner of Cosineros Del Campo Chuck wagon. "Cosineros" also spelled cocineros is the true word of Americanism as the word was created as Texas began a Republic, meaning cuisine or cook from Spanish to English. "Cosineros Del Campo," in translation is "The Cook of the Camp."

The main entrance to King Ranch and the site of the breakfast is on the west side of Kingsville, Texas on Highway 141. Breakfast Tickets: ages 4 and up $6.00 – ages 3 and under FREE! Proceeds from the Ranch Hand Breakfast will benefit “La Posada de Kingsville,” a festival of lights in Kingsville, Texas.

Chuck Wagon Cooking School

2011-11-02T15:40:00.000-07:00

Kent Rollings from Byers, Texas owns the Red River Ranch Chuckwagon earning many awards including the “Chuckwagon of the Year,“ 1996 and 1997 by the Academy of Western Artists. He has also been nominated three times for Best Story Teller by the Academy of Western Artists winning that award in 2002 and has also received recognition for my poetry as well.

Raised in southwest Oklahoma near the banks of the Red River, Kent grew up around the cattle business and has been able to get away from it. "I love preserving the rich history of the old west through catering traditional western meals, poetry and stories," states Kent who also hosts the "Red River Ranch Chuck Wagon Cooking School" twice a year. Once during the fall and once more during spring, Kent along with wife Shannon instruct the interactive four day course that teaches students everything from the basics of Dutch oven cooking all the way to specific techniques and tricks.

Lesley Kershaw Tennessen was a student during spring in 2011 but is far from a green horn when it comes to cooking with cast iron. She is a member of the International Dutch Oven Cooking Society, the Lone Star Dutch Oven Society and known as a superb cook who often demonstrates Dutch Oven Cooking throughout the year. Lesley continues to improve her culinary skills exploring other techniques which took her to Byers, Texas attending Kent Rollins, Red River Ranch Chuck Wagon Cooking School. "We learned alot," states Lesley. "I got my education in cooking with nuclear fuel using Texas mesquite wood. Additionally, I learned cooking with various levels of trivets. Then there is the fine art of sourdough and the wonderful Texas twang which I already miss hearing." Lesley highly recommends Kent's school and plans to return again this next year.

While the Chuck wagon cooking school is not Le Cordon Bleu or the Culinary Institute of America, the school is filled with a learning experience for any skill level of cooking. Couples and groups are also encouraged. The students arrive to a scene from an old cow camp located in Northern Texas, near the Red River. Everyone is provided their own ranch style teepee with a cot and cowboy bedroll. Each day is spent learning and practicing authentic chuck wagon recipes just like those from the old cattle drives and wagon trails. Kent also explains the proper care of cast iron and his insight with over two decades of chuck wagon catering.

Kent also holds cooking clinics when not catering or competing as a member of the American Chuck Wagon Association. Contact Red River Ranch for scheduling or visit their website. http://kentrollins.com/

The All American Chuck Wagon Race

2011-10-18T23:22:00.000-07:00

CHUCK WAGON TRUCK - Pitch Fork Ranch, Texas

In every major city today, food vendors are often found parked along the street corners serving up some simple staples of food. Today called a mobile canteen, these trucks have found their way as portable kitchens operated by many food entrepreneurs. These vehicles have also been used to ration food through Civil Defense, American Red Cross and other organizations during various disasters. Although, long before the idea hit the streets for a mobile canteen, Charles Goodnight knew he needed to feed his cowboys along the trail drives and created what would become known as the Chuck wagon.

As the cattlemen turned to the railroad for moving their herds to market, slowly the chuckwagon found its place being stored in barns until needed during round up season. Through the years, even the railroad now has been replaced through interstate trucking and most daily meals dished out from the bunkhouse for the cowboy.

As ranchers began modernizing during the turn of the 20th century, they invested in trucks. The truck seem dependable for ranch work. They could easily carry equipment for fence mending, haul feed and travel all day without the need for rest. Surely several were also converted into modern Chuckwagons carrying the necessary supplies to feed the wranglers working during round up season. The trucks bed easily allowed to carry the chuck box with plenty of room for food, pots and pans. When needed for other duties, the bed could be set up to meet any of the ranching needs becoming a necessity of modern ranching.

At the Lincoln County Symposium held each year in Ruidoso, New Mexico, part of the activity is holding "The All American Chuck Wagon Truck Race." The event is the only race like it in the world featuring Chuck Trucks with 22.5 Horse Power engines dating no later than 1927. It is no surprise, that the two competing trucks in the race are both Ford Model TT trucks.

The Ford Motor Company began building the Model TT in 1917 using the same concepts of the model T automobile adding a heavier chassis and rear axle that operated a worm drive system unlike the crown and pin drive of the sedan. Additionally, the TT chassis was longer giving it 125" inches in length over the 100" inch Model T automobile.

Ford sold most of the Model TT with out truck beds allowing the purchasers to outfit the truck bed in any manner desired. This also aided in the ease of production along with lower cost. Mass production began by 1925 through 1927 where Ford had already built over 15 million automobiles.

The horse and carriage moved into extinction from the inner cities. This was much due to sanitation of the city streets, although the new automobiles allowed commuting at such ease. Unlike the horse which often was stabled blocks from the residence, the automobiles easily parked in front of any home or business. It became an affordable and rapid means for transportation.

Calk entry from El Paso, Texas

Grubelnik entry from Lubbock, Texas

As "The All American Chuck Wagon Truck Race" begins, you find each team of the Chuck wagon Truck crews standing at the ready. The team consist of four members who are required to break down camp, loading all the equipment into the bed of their chuck truck as one member cranks the shaft to start the vehicle, two others saddle and mount either horses or mule working as out riders. Once loaded, vehicle started and horses mounted, the Chuckwagon Truck is off heading down the course.

The race coarse requires the trucks to drive around barrels then head out on the long straight away. Out riders remain along side the vehicle during the race as they head to cross the finish line. While penalties can be assessed for any infractions of the rules, the first team to cross the finish line typically wins.

With exception to the outriders, the teams are also require to have competed in Chuck Wagon Cooking competitions for three years to be eligible to participate in the race. Trucks must also have wood spoke wheels, auxiliary transmission and or a two speed axle. The vehicles must remain stock with exception to chuck wagon configuration. The Chuck and boot boxes must be built from planked wood as no plywood is allowed. Additionally, all required equipment must be period correct, including riding high back saddles.

Grubelnik Ford Model TT Chuck Wagon

While both teams got off to a great start, Wayne Calk held the lead until the final turn allowing Dale Grubelnik, from Lubbock, Texas to cross the finish line first. Although after judges tallied access penalties, both Grubelnik and Calk held the same time ending the race in a tie. Looks like they will have to run again next year to see who really has the better crew.

Dale operated his 1923 Ford Model TT and is also owner of Grubelnik Ranch in Raton, New Mexico along the Berla Mesa. Additionally, he also uses a 1905 Weber Wagon competing in Chuckwagon Cooking events. His Model TT Truck was once used on the famous Pitchfork Ranch as a chuck wagon.

Wayne Calk, of El Paso, Texas operated his restored 1927 Ford Truck. Wayne found the truck in Riverside, California and converted it into a working Chuck wagon. Wayne stripped off the original flat bed and replaced it with and all new Oak wood bed with side boards. Then added his constructed chuck box and boot box built from using pine wood. Wayne and his crew Skip Clark, John Cooper and JR Guinn also participated in the Chuckwagon Cook-off with his John Deere Triumph wagon that is at the turn of the 20th century era. He obtained this wagon from Wayne Snider of Amarillo, Texas. The wagon originated from Chandlerville, Illinois, and Snider bought it in St. Joseph, Missouri. Wayne once again did most of the restoration turning the wagon into a classic piece adding the chuck box, pan boot, seat, brakes, tool box, and water barrel shelf.

Keith Davis of Austin, Texas also assisted the Calk Chuckwagon team during the Lincoln County Symposium. Keith grew up in Kermit, Texas where Wayne Calk was one of his school teachers during the 1970's. Keith had owned a restaurant business over 20 years and loves cowboy cooking. After 30 years, Keith reconnected with his former teacher to be part of this great event. "I love this sort of thing. I really had a great time in Ruidoso and the chuckwagon group are such a great bunch of people," stated Keith.

Both Grubelnik Ranch and the Calk chuck wagon team have won numerous awards for their competition cooking from these chuckwagons that were on sight in Ruidoso. Additioanl, both teams have much to be proud, not only for owning such beautiful restored master pieces, but in addition for their great contribution preserving the history of the American Cowboy and the chuckwagon which were once home to those cowboy working the range.

Wayne Calk's Chuck Wagon Truck

Dale Grubelnik's Chuckwagon Truck

Starting Line for the Great American Chuckwagon Truck Race

Ford Model TT Chuck Wagon Truck


Chuckwagon Truck Camp

End of the trail Lincoln County Symposium

Ford Model TT Chuck Wagon

Above photo is of vehicle displayed at the

Edison and Ford Museum

photo credits: Keith Davis, Lincoln County Symposium, Edison and Ford Museum

Autumn Harvest - The Pumpkin Capital of the World

2011-10-03T15:31:00.000-07:00

Lisa Witherspoon Schultz

The canopy of shade shared through summer, her hues once green now orange and red. Each day her leaves fall slowly upon the ground. Harvest season is surely abound. While many poets seem to use the Autumn season in melancholy writings, Autumn is also a time to celebrate.

Ranchers buckle down to ensure they have enough feed for livestock to survive the long hard winters. Farmers take to the fields cultivating the array of crops. Once harvested by every man, woman and child, the rural communities came together to help their fellow neighbor. The harvest season was always followed by celebrations of food, music and community gatherings that have been influenced by ancestral past.

The Autumn harvest is celebrated in many different ways across the nation. Floydada, Texas known as "The Pumpkin Capital of the World" celebrates their harvest season with "PUMKIN DAY" held on the Second Saturday of October. This attraction brings thousands of visitors from everywhere to the downtown event. Over 70 arts and craft booths along with many food vendors line the streets near the court house with hourly entertainment provided under the town square Pavilion. The day is filled with games for all ages. As the night sets in, folks take to the street for the annual free street dance that closes out the festivities.
Lisa Witherspoon Schultz shown in the photo, is a proud Texas mother of two children; her son Jared who just graduated from Petersberg High School last May and her daughter Kim, who graduated from College at UTPB and currently Head Coach, Girls Varsity basketball at the Petersberg High School. Lisa, loves to attend the annual Pumpkin event stating, "There is so much to do and see with the many arts and crafts displayed while you walk along the town square. Joined with great food and some fun competition it is exciting to watch as others compete in the many fun activities including, Pumpkin Carving, Pie baking, Seed Spitting Contest, Pumpkin Bowling and Rolling the giant Pumpkin gourd competition."

Floydada, just northeast of Lubbock, Texas is in the southern Panhandle region of Texas. This area produces mostly cotton, milo and corn, but on approximately 1600 acres in the county, they grow an estimate of 50,000 pounds of pumpkins per acre. That’s nearly twenty million pumpkins.

Pumpkins are native to the Americas finding it's way to Europe when Columbus returned to Spain carrying with him, Pumpkin seeds. The pumpkins in Europe were grown to feed pigs and not used for human consumption.

The early Native American farmers were practicing an early form of sustainable agriculture. Planting squash, corn and beans together, the crops thrived. Corn served as the natural trellis for the beans to grow on strengthening corn stalks on windy days. The bean roots set nitrogen into the soil that nourish the corn while squash plants shelter the shallow roots of the corn and shaded the ground that discouraged weeds while preserving soil moisture. The practice called "Three Sisters" is widely studied in modern agriculture.

Native Americans roasted pumpkin strips over campfires and used them as a food source, long before the arrival of European explorers. Roasted, baked, parched, boiled or dried, the Indians found numerous ways to prepare and eat Pumpkins. Seeds also roasted were often used as medicine. They also used the flowering blossoms in stews. Early breads were made by drying the pumpkins and grinding into a flour like substance that could be stored for months.

Interesting facts about Pumpkins: While Orange color pumpkins are widely known, did you know they also grow in colors of Green, Yellow, Red, White, Blue and Tan.

The Term "Pumpkinheads" comes from early colonist of New England who used the pumpkin shell as a template for haircuts giving a uniform round finish. The cut was called "Pumpkinhead."

Pumpkins were used for Native American medicine: Modern medicines looks at pumpkins to help eliminate freckles, once used as a remedy for snakebites, are used in a number of facial and anti-wrinkle cremes, contain zero cholesterol, are low in salt, contain beta carotene which helps to reduce certain types of cancer and lowers the risk of heart disease, and pumpkin seeds help to reduce the risk of prostrate cancer.

Worlds largest Pumpkin was grown by Chris Stevens of New Richmond, Wisconsin. His pumpkin weighed 1810.5 pounds recorded at the Stillwater Harvest fest in Stillwater, Minnesota, on October 9, 2010

At the second Thanksgiving Celebration, it is documented that pumpkins were served. Although while we picture a perfect crust pumpkin pie, in fact, the Pilgrims removed the top of the pumpkin, then scooped out the seeds and filled the cavity with cream, honey, eggs and spices. Placing the top back on, the pumpkin then was place in the ashes of the firepit to cook. Once baked, the blacken shell removed and the content scooped out that resembled much like a custard.

Other areas claim to be the Pumpkin Capital of the World. Morton, Illinois self-proclaimed, due to the Libby Industry Plant for canning pumpkins is located there in Morton. Additionally, Half Moon Bay, California claims to this title, but everyone knows the real capital lays in north Texas in the small town of Floydada.

Pumpkin Custard Cake Recipe:

The Pumpkin Day celebration is October 8th, 2011 in Floydada, Texas. For more information, contact Chamber of Commerce at 806 983-3434 or on the web at www.floydadachamber.com

Floydada, Texas Pumpkin Capital of the World

NRS High School Rodeo Model Search Finalists

2011-09-27T00:57:00.000-07:00

Devonte Toler

The National Roping Supply is promoting their next Model Search for their catalog. The contest will end October 3rd - 2PM CST for the Cowboys and just closed for Cowgirls. The NRS selected the top ten finalist of Cowboys and Cowgirls leaving the judging too who gets the most “likes” on facebook. Winners will then be featured and modeling in the next NRS catalog.

National Roping Supply founded in 1994, has brought the western world quality products since it's beginnings. Introducing their catalog, the NRS has become a household name among the western environment. Marketing saddles, ropes, headstalls, bits or western attire, the NRS has become one of the largest suppliers of western gear. Rooted in tradition, they test each product extensively to make sure they will withstand cowboy use. They also offer a full line of western gifts, and decor to outfit your home in the traditional western fashion. The NRS Training Center offers clinics of all types from team roping, calf roping and barrel racing, to horsemanship and horse training at Sand Hill Ranch/NRS Training Center in Decatur, Tx.

The Cowgirl selection narrowed down to an attractive Cowgirl named Kourtney from Idaho with over 3,500 face-book likes. The ten remaining cowboys, each displaying their charismatic smiles are hoping to be the winner with your face-book vote. The current lead is a Justin Boot Company sponsored cowboy name Jake who is nearing his first thousand likes with two others named Dallin and Aaron hot on his heels. The other young cowboys names are, Dillon, Jaco, Devonte, Kaden, Levi, Seth, and Will. Each of these Cowboys already represent western heritage and the cowboy way, but one of these young cowboys may be the under dog, but is a true Rodeo Contestant and real Cowboy. That young man is Devonte Toler from Hempstead, Texas.

Devonte, is an amateur Bull Rider competing in Texas Youth Rodeo. He was introduce to the sport when his aunt with some of her Bull Riding friends took him to his first Rodeo. He was a mere 2 years old, professing he would simulate riding bulls after that first rodeo.

Devonte began training horses working for Mr. Tommy Zorn, stating colts for roping, barrel racing and showing. "Mr. Zorn taught me how to train horses, and train them the right way," state Devonte.

Like any teenager, Devonte confesses, he loves music with a good beat and enjoyed playing football and Basketball. Wearing the jersey number TEN, Devonte plays defense for the Hempstead Bobcats Varsity Football. When he's not performing school sports or training colts, it's all about riding Bulls.

Devonte starting riding Bulls before high school but due to an injured shoulder in his freshman year, he concentrated on his school activities giving time for his shoulder to heal. Since last summer, traveling with his best friend Rowdy Roque, they try to enter many of the jackpot rodeos around the state. They just rode in the Roger Crouch Memorial WSPBR and Open Bull Riding held in New Waverly, Texas and often ride the Houston Solution Jack Pot Rodeo held in Cypress, Texas. His next Rodeo will be at the Robstown, Texas open Rodeo wear he will be donning his tear drop shank spurs with super grip rowels.

Devonte states his favorite Bull Riders are Terry Don West and J.W. Harris, admiring Abe Morris, the first Black American to receive a PRCA announcer card 1982 and Charlie Simpson who won the 1982 World Champion Bull Rider and inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1996. Devonte plans to enter the CBR and earn his pro card. One day he hopes he can ride at the National Finals and win the World, but first thing first, is to compete his education.

To vote on any of these young men for NRS High School Rodeo Model Search, go to face book, find their picture and click like. Best wishes good luck to each of these find cowboys.

FACEBOOK VOTE PAGE


Devonte Toler Hempstead, Texas

Devonte Toler, Bull Rider

Tortilla

2011-09-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

Tortilla - in Spanish means "little cake" although, the Tortilla is one of the oldest known foods to the civilized world, dating back to 10,000 BC. Anthropologist have found in 3000 BC that the Mesoamerican civilizations of the Mayans and the Aztecs did hybridized wild grasses that produce a large nutritious kernels we know as corn.

Tortillas are made from corn meal (maize) or Wheat flour and used to serve with many different Mexican foods that have influenced Tex-Mex and Southwest cuisine. Spanish explorer Hernan Cortes in 1519, arrived in what is today, Mexico. He found the indigenous Mesoamericans natives had a sophisticated and flavorful cuisine based on native fruits, game, cultivated beans and corn and domesticated turkeys.

Traditionally grilled on earthenware utensils, they are used as bread that is often filled or stuffed. The original Indian method of preparation consisted of kneading the cornmeal dough (masa) on a stone called a metate. Then the masa is shaped into a circle about 8 inches wide and 1/8th inch thick. The tortilla has become a common staple for Vaqueros and Cowboys and served with nearly every meal of Mexican, Tex-Mex or Southwest Cuisines:

Tortilla Recipe:

Pan De Campo Recipe:


Tortillas - Staple of Cowboy Cooking

Pete Garcia working dough at King Ranch photo by Roger Edison

2011-09-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

RIDE For The HEART

2011-09-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

Most equestrians ride from the heart. There is a thrilling affection between horse and rider whether performing competition, working cattle, harness in the field or just seeking the weekend escape as one enters the realm of serenity while on horseback. Although, Angela Widdowfield who has performed many competitions and pleasure rides will be adding a ride for the heart as she joins many other horsemen who are supporting the American Heart Association.

Angela is a native Texan who grew up in El Paso. After graduating from Sul Ross State University majoring in Equine Science and Veterinary Medicine, she moved to Virginia. It was a hard decision, she confesses, "Life was becoming reckless and I needed help." She packed up her 1976 Ford F-150 Pick up with everything she owned. Her horses, her Blue Heeler, the cat, a pet Horn-toad, and her two month old daughter. Angela was a single parent that hit the road without even taking a road map. She was heading to be near her mother who lived in Virginia. In her truck with horse trailer in tow, she drove 2000 miles door to door with the CB radio and several good truckers that got her within 200 yards from her mothers home. "Just another testimony in my life, that God was carrying me by the beltloops," states Angela.

Virginia became home for Angela who quickly readjusted her life. Now living with her mother and baby daughter, Angela got back into enjoying her love for horses. It was not long after, she began training her daughter Donnie everything she knew about horses, too.

"I began riding horses every since I was able to hold my head up. I raised my daughter the same way. When my daughter, Donnie was merely 10 years old, her Tennessee Walking Horse was giving birth. The foal was born not berthing. Donnie actually gave the little foal CPR calmly berthing into the nostrils. The cute little filly was soon breathing and standing on her own. At that moment, this foal became Donnie's passion. She raised her, trained her, shoed her and rode her to a National Grand Championship in 2008 all by herself. I am so proud of her," states Angela.

Angela has also competed as an equestrian. She currently participates in Cowboy Mounted Shooting and is a member of the 1st Virginia CMSA. When Angela first got involved with Cowboy Mounted Shooting, she road an experience and well trained horse for this type of event. She won her class and the overall competition. "I knew nothing about CMSA and it has taken me awhile to get a cooperative horse as the first time I rode when using an experience horse. I am improving and just love this sport. However, getting a good shooting horse has been quite a challenge. I sent my horse to Hired Gun Horsemanship with Sam Helms and his wife Leff Helms. They also own Triple Creek Farm in Monroe, North Carolina and perform both horse training and rider clinics which has helped me significantly. I have never had so much fun with a horse in all my life until becoming active with CMSA," replied Angela. Riding in Cowboy Mounted Shooting, Angela uses her pair of Ruger Vaquero's .45 caliber single action pistols.

In November 2009, Angela's significant other suffered a massive heart attack. Surviving the attack, the two became more aware of Coronary problems and Heart disease. In January 2010, Angela and her life partner were able to participate a fund raising event for the American Heart Association. Founded in 1924, the American Heart Association is the nation's oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to reducing disability and death from diseases of the heart and stroke. Those diseases, America's No.1 and No. 3 killers, and all other cardiovascular diseases claim over 870,000 lives a year.

Angela explained, Heart disease had been in her family for generations on both sides. Additionally, has claimed the lives of some of those closest to her, including both her father and grandfather. Out of 1,000 riders during the 2010 American Heart Association Beach Ride, Angela ranked 9th amongst the other riders in bringing in funds to support the American Heart Association. This year, she hopes to raise $10,000 during the 30th Annual Jack Monroe Beach Ride that will be held in Myrtle Beach, S.C. at Lakewood Camping Resort, November 2nd - November 6th, 2011. If you have ever dreamed of camping oceanfront with your horse and riding on the beach, this is the event for you! Angela expressed the best part of this event, was to be able to share it with her partner who had suffer the near "widowmaker" attack.

To support Angela's ride, follow the link 2011 Myrtle Beach Horse Ride an enter (sponsor rider) or visit the web www.ahabeachride.org were you too can join the fight against heart disease and stroke. You can also call 843-282-2911 or 866-915-6238.

American Heart Association Beach Ride

VENISON POT PIE

2011-09-13T17:50:00.000-07:00


Photo and Recipe provided by Karen Spillman, Hondo Canyon Ranch, Texas

As Karen Lynch Spillman cooked up her Delicious Venison Pot Pie's, she added the symbolism of the great Lone Star State. Embedding the shape of Texas on the tops of each pie crust, I reflected back many years remembering the many times my mom made these special pies for dinner. They were always filling with that trusted essence of a home cooked meal.

The word "pie" relating to food first appears in the Oxford English Dictionary in 1303. The derivation of the word may have come from magpie, shortened to pie. As a favored dish of the English, pies were baked in America once the early settlers set up camps on dry land. There was a practical reason for making pies. The harsh and primitive conditions endured by the first colonists, allowed to use less flour to bake pies than bread and did not require anything as complex such as a brick oven for baking. Additionally, pies could stretch even the most meager provisions into sustaining and feeding more hungry mouths. While early settlers would probably not proclaim their early pies as masterpieces of culinary delights, the pie has developed into the hearty treat that filled the famished and discriminating appetites.

Karen Lynch Spillman and her husband Mark Spillman manage the Hondo Canyon Ranch, own by the Cowboy TV-Radio Personality, Red Steagall. When not involved with the ranch, the couple also operate their own catering business, Silver Spur Cowboy Cooking in Azle, Texas near the Fort Worth-Dallas community.

The Spillman's enjoy cooking their authentic Western cuisines. Using the same techniques for cooking as the early pioneers that followed the Oregon trail and those who cooked along the many cattle drives, their cowboy cooking speaks as the warm staple for any discriminating appetite. Their cast iron dutch ovens rest next to the open pit camp fire as they prepare entrees from their menu that includes Pork Chops, Meatloaf, Steaks, Fried Chicken, Catfish, Enchilada Stack, Chicken fried Steak or Barbecue.

Silver Spur Chuck Wagon

Their chuck wagon provides an array of side dishes; Three Potato Medley, Hominy with Green Chilies and Bacon, Sauteed Green Beans, Cowboy Beans, Baked Beans, Scalloped Potatoes, Fried Potatoes, Cole Slaw and Cowboy Corn. Bread dishes include; choice of Homemade Rolls, Cornbread or Buttermilk Biscuits and desserts; Peach Cobbler, Cherry Crisp, Blueberry Crisp, Apple Crisp, Bread Pudding or Sopapillia Cheesecake.

Mark is a Firefighter-Paramedic while Karen is a homemaker and homeschool mom. Their daughter Tipi will be entering Weatherford College and currently works with the gift shop at the Weatherford Hospital. Tipi also loves the country life style and Christian ministries devoting free time assisting as a Children's Pastor. Tipi also enjoys hunting and hanging out with her friends. Their son Talon loves to team rope and hunt. He wants to rodeo and plans to also be a ranch manager like his dad. When not involved with his studies, Talon assist working the ranch and is a big help with the ranch garden.

Karen and Mark Spillman

Karen recommends using leftover steaks and vegetables, placing into a ziplock bag and freezing until the bag is full. Left overs make for a superb filling when making pot pies and prevent wasting food that might normally be discard. The variations for Pot Pie flavorings are unlimited. For more information about their catering, please visit the Silver Spur web site www.silverspurcowboycooking.com

For information about Red Steagall, please visit http://www.redsteagall.com

VENISON POT PIE recipe:
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The Lone Cowgirl - story by Roger Edison

2011-08-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

JACI enunciated as "Jaycee," LEWIS of Goldthwaite, Texas preps her gear for the days big rodeo action. As she cleans her saddle, she is alert to inspect and double check all the leathers, cinch, ropes and tie downs, slowly going through each piece of gear ensuring it's ready to go. A fairly normal action for any contestant with a champion attitude. Although, for Jaci, this is no normal girls event. She's the Lone Cowgirl in the male dominated sport of Bronc riding entered at the Tom Butler Memorial Bronc Riding Rodeo.

The (TBMBR) Tom Butler Memorial Bronc Riding event pays tribute honoring Bronc Rider Tom Butler, of Guthrie, Texas. Butler was an 18-year-old student at Texas Tech University when his life was tragically ended in a motor vehicle accident in February 2006. Butler was a shining star in the ranching community and respected Cowboy. Tom had earned many awards and titles in ranch rodeos and horse competitions, as well as athletic and scholastic activities during the course of his life. The Memorial Rodeo additionally raises money to provide financial assistance for college bound students to continue their education in a collegiate, trade or vocational program through recognized colleges, universities or technical college. Since 2006, the TBMBR has awarded numerous Scholarships totaling $60,000.

"Jaci's originates from a long-line of Cowboy heritage," states Jaci's mother, Shaye Wilson Lewis. "Her grandfather Gary, was an excellent roper in college and very close the the Nation Finals Rodeo. Gary and his brothers all roped very well. Jaci's cousin, Brent Lewis, was 1991 PRCA Resistol Rookie of the Year. He has won or placed at the Top 50 PRCA Rodeo's and holds 12 WNFR Qualifications. Jaci's Dad, Pace Lewis is also a roper. Additionally, he manages the WALL RANCH near Evant, Texas."

Shaye confesses, she married into the Cowboy life growing up on the Golf Course, but anytime her husband Pace in mention to anyone that does not know him, his mother-in-law is quick to say, "He's a real Cowboy...Last of the dying breed."

Jaci is a petite Cowgirl who entered the 12 year old and under Shetland Pony Bronc Event. As she closes up her gear bag, she gets help loading the heavy equipment that weights half her weight into her Daddy's pick-up truck before heading out for Tom Butler Memorial Bronc Ride.

As vehicles arrive at the Post Stampede Rodeo grounds, some traveling as far off as Arizona and Colorado, Jaci is ready with anticipation. Cowboys and Cowgirls fill the grand stand with a record crowd of 2,500 in attendance. The Ranch Bronc Riding has given many Cowboys the opportunity to compete against their Peers while providing Stock Contractors like Jim Kinney of JK Rodeo from Pecos, TX the opportunity to work with this exciting non-profit event.

Terry Chandler known as "The Outlaw Chef" from Fred's Texas Cafe in Fort Worth, provides a chuck wagon breakfast to the crowd. The fund raiser of a live auction kicks in gear along with a silent auctions that help bring in revenues going towards the scholarship funds, along with the sales of Ridin’ High Tee’s and apparel sold through The TBMBR. Vendors begin to line behind the bleachers marketing western gear, apparel, jewelry as the opening ceremony begins.

The action packed day will be filled with 30 competitors riding in the Open Bronc Riding Division, 15 riders participating in the Rookie Bronc Riding and 21 riders taking part in the Shetland Bronc Riding for 12 year olds and under.

Patiently, Jaci sits on the white washed fence rail as she waits for her draw of the wild Shetland ponies to be moved into the gates. Her Dad at her side watches on, ready to assist rigging her saddle. Jaci, is the only cowgirl taking on the challenge of today's Bronc riding event dominated by the young cowboys. The young lads dally near the stock pens, each prepping their gear with intense anticipation for some Rodeo action.

The stock contractor and Rodeo staff begin moving the Ponies into the prospective shoots. Her draw is moved into shoot number five. Her Dad begins rigging Jaci's Bronc Saddle on the Pony. As he cinching it tight, he give the pony a knee, enabling him to pull the cinch tighter. Jaci straddles the horse as she takes her rope rein in hand sliding onto the saddle. Her Dad double checks everything again questioning if she's ready. As she pulls her hat firmly down with her free hand, she nods her head indicating yes. In her small voice she calls out, "Let's ride."

Jaci Lewis Bronc Rides at TBMBR

The gate flies open. The Rodeo announcer broadcast "Jaci Lewis coming out of shoot number five from Goldthwaite, Texas. Come on Jaci Lewis." The crowd roars with excitement as she hangs in there while the pony bucks away. The horn blows after the eight second ride as Jaci leaps to the ground. Landing on her feet, she stands listening for the judges to announce her score.

“I was so excited when I got on my bronc, but not so much nervous. Then I think I kinda blacked out during my ride. My dad rides broncs in ranch rodeos and he told me he kinda does the same thing,” states Jaci.

Cooper DeWitt from Rio Rico, Arizona drove all night to participate in the Open Bronc Riding event. His brother Miles DeWitt won the same event the first two years it was held. Cooper expressed the event as one of the most prestigious ranch bronc rides in the West. His twelve hour drive without sleep did not detour him from winning First place in the Open Bronc Riding Event, earning $3,000 and a custom handmade Bronc Saddle valued at $3,500.

OPEN Bronc Riding: 1st-Cooper Dewitt, 2nd-Kye Fuston, 3rd-Tanner Johnson, 4th-Tell Good, Wildest Ride Zane Peters

ROOKIE Bronc Riding: 1st- Will Butler, 2nd- Reece Belongia, Wildest Ride Cayce Lewis

SHETLAND: 1st-Kutter Johnson, 2nd-Jaci Lewis (the lone girl shetland bronc rider) 3rd-Bonner Voss, 4th-Hayden Wright, Wildest Ride: Riggin Johnson

Kelly and Traci Butler award Jaci Lewis

As Jaci's name was called to receive her awards, her Mom and Dad both felt extremely proud of her courage and accomplishment. Her Dad, Pace Lewis quickly dials his cell phone, calling friends and family to report Jaci's accomplishing ride.

Jaci blushing exposing her grin as she proudly accepts her awards. Then poses with Kelly and Traci Butler, the parents of Tom Butler for a photo.

Many women helped shape the west, including the sport of American Rodeo. In 2009, TBMBR found Kaitlin Voss as a lone cowgirl who also took second place against 15 male buckaroos in the Shetland Bronc Riding Event.

The Lone Cowgirls who went against the odds, like Bronc Rider Eloise Fox Hastings Wilson (1882-1948). She was entered into the national Hall of Fame in 1987 for her performance of trick roping and Bronc Riding during her early years with the Irwin brothers' Wild West Show. Other cowgirls like Ruth Roach, Florence Hughs, Bea Kirnan, Bonnie Grey, Rose Smith, Toots Griffith and Ruby Roberts rode for Ralph R. Doubleday Rodeo each proved their abilities to match up against the men of Rodeo.

Considered one of the greatest cowgirl bronc riders of her day, Mildred Douglas (1895-1983) was inducted into the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame in 1988. Nearly one hundred years ago, Mildred won the Ladies Championship of the World Bronc riding during the Cheyenne Frontier Days of 1918.

Cowgirls like Jaci continue to help shape our Western Culture. She plans to be back for the October 15th, 2011 TBMBR. Perhaps George Strait, says it best in his song, "How 'Bout them Cowgirls." Jaci Lewis may be the lone Cowgirl, but she has a grand stand fulled with fans to cheer her on.

Young Buckaroo Congratulates the Lone Cowgirl on her Ride

Shetland Bronc Riding at the Tom Butler Memorial Bronc Riding

Cooper DeWitt wins the Tom Butler Memorial Bronc Riding

for more information on the Tom butler Memorial Bronc Riding, Please visit their web site www.tombutlermemorial.com

Song of Hiawatha - Chuck Wagon Cook Off

2011-08-26T17:44:00.000-07:00

Lost Creek Chuck Wagon

Story by Roger Edison

An aroma fills the air of fresh brewing coffee as the sun begins to rise over the land of 10,000 lakes. Pans clattering echo through the Historic District Streets as cooks prepare for the annual "Song of Hiawatha-Chuckwagon Cook-Off." Daybreak revels the authentic display of Chuck wagons. A reminder of an era when Cowboys as far off as Texas once moved needed cattle across the nation. Impeccable details from the wagon with it's cowboy gear, too authentic clothing worn by the camp cooks, is just a small part of the days competition. Each wagon team will sizzle up their best food for the bragging rights winning the "Song of Hiawatha-Cook Off" held in Pipestone, Minnesota.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote the 1855 epic poem "Song of Hiawatha." The American literary piece is the romantic tale of a heroic Native American Indian who resided in the Minnesota Territory an his love for his Indian maiden Minnehaha. While Longfellow never journeyed to the area, it's ancient history dates back thousands of years when Native Americans lived in close harmony with nature along the tall grass prairie.

Philander Prescott, a fur trader who worked for North American Fur Company is the first known European to record a trip to the pipestone quarries in 1831. Prescott wrote, "Indians have labored here very hard with hoes and axes, the only tools except large stones...we found a six pound cannon ball that the Indians have brought there from the Missouri to break the rock."

The Indians believed the grounds to be sacred, and the pipestone rock be used strictly for ceremonial and religious purposes. Lakota Indian lore believes, The great Spirit sent floods to cleanse the earth. The red pipestone, the blood of the ancestors was all that remained. After the flood the Great Spirit gave the Lakota a pipe carved from red stone.

The tales of this Indian culture would intrigue others too follow. George Catlin who was a writer - artist heard of this red rock while visiting with Indian tribes along the upper Mississippi River. Confident that this rock was different from all other known minerals, he set out to find it. In 1836 Catlin arrived by horseback to the area writing, "crossing one of the most beautiful prairie countries in the world covered with the richest soil, and furnishes an abundance of good water, which flows from a thousand living springs."

Influencing many immigrates, mostly of Scandinavian and German descent, settlements of the Minnesota Territory took root. The United States government would negotiate a treaty for all Minnesota land through the general Indian Appropriations bill of 1851. The Sisseton and Wahpeton tribes ceded their lands, including the pipestone quarry, in a treaty signed at Traverse des Sioux in 1851. Although the Yankton tribe, not being part of the treaty objected to losing the quarry. The territory would be admitted to the Union as Minnesota, the thirty-second state on May 11, 1858. The state name comes from the Dakota word meaning "sky-tinted water."

Nevertheless, the Wahpeton tribe would participant in the Minnesota outbreak and massacre of 1862. In the height of the Civil War between the states, Fort Pipestone would be erected as a stockade for defense against the Indians during the Sioux uprising. Early morning on September 4th in 1863, with 240 settlers taking refuge, the Fort was attacked. Though the Indians driven off, the state would be under siege for 10 days before Company Nine of the 5th Minnesota Volunteer Regiment arrived on scene.

Charles Bennett, intrigued by Longfellow's poem, would later prospect the sight. Assisted with Daniel Sweet, the city of Pipestone was founded in 1876. Despite blizzards, droughts, prairie fires and grasshopper plagues, the young village survived. The town grew, adding the railroad. Construction of attractive architectural buildings using the quartzite from the once sacred Indian quarry still stand along the Downtown District of Pipestone as an ambiance of the heritage. Though the quarry remains sacred ground to the many Indian tribes, the United States would purchase the land in 1893. The Yankton tribe would resettled on a reservation 150 miles away, contesting the sale until 1929 for a total of $328,558 in principle plus interest was awarded. Upon payment of this judgment, title to the land passed to the United States, and all treaty rights of the Yanktons were at an end. Pipestone National Monument was signed into legislation in 1937.

Along side the walls of the Pipestone Gift Shop, the Chuckwagon camps were in full swing. Locals and tourist alike could easily find their imagination reminiscing what life was like operating on the trail drive. The wood frame wagons that yielded a canvas fly for shade, a cook that conjured three squares when not acting as barber or dentist, where bedrolls laid and cowboys gathered, this was home on the range as they herded cattle north.

Coming all the way from Stoddard, Wisconsin, was the "LAZY A" chuck wagon team owned by Mike and Patty Aspelet. Their wagon began life at the turn of the century operating as a farm grain wagon. Mike stripped the wagon down to the running gear, extended the length of the reach by a foot, and then built the wagon bed, sides, and chuck box. After learning how to Dutch oven cook, they began competing about six years ago.

The Lost Creek Chuck Wagon is owned by J.T. Hallson of Long Lake, Minnesota. He cooks with a crew of friends from the Old West Society of Minnesota that included the charming characters Boomer, Miss Tilly and Lady Slipper. The Wagon was manufactured by

Weber Wagon Company – Chicago, Illinois Established in 1845 – Bought in 1904. This wagon spent many years working hearty on a farm in Iowa before J.T. bought it at auction. Boomer recreated much of the iron work in his Robbinsdale blacksmith shop while J.T. crafted the woodwork. The Lost Creek Chuck Wagon team has been involved with Old West re-enactments and cooking for over seven years.

Jim and Susan Patrick of Watertown, South Dakota brought their “D T” chuck wagon. This Peter Schuttler wagon was originally manufactured in Chicago. It is a restored wagon of the 1880’s era. Although tempted to concoct a story of finding this chuck wagon “as-is” in a barn in the Black Hills, James Patrick admits he has done way too much work on this wagon to allow someone else to take the credit. Jim has designed and built the chuck box and did all the blacksmith work, including forge-welding the chains. In 2008, Jim Patrick took his team and the DT Wagon over the entire 250 mile wagon-train journey on the historic Ft. Pierre to Deadwood trail.

The Flying Star Chuckwagon Team was Bob and Vicki Heavirland from North Branch, Minnesota. Their wagon was manufactured by John Deer and used for farming in the south. The wagon had been owned by one family passed on from Grandfather, to father and to son before Bob purchased the wagon. The John Deer had a large 42" inch wide box bed that was needed to fit the Chuck Box Bob had already made, as it did not fit the standard 36" wagon bed width. Over the last 5 years he has rebuilt the brake system, replaced the reach, added new tongue, double trees and single trees, new neck yoke and repainted the wagon. Bob began his cooking at a chuck wagon cook-off at Spirit of the West, held in Sioux Falls, SD. Bob and Vicki's son along with grand son operate the wagon during the competitions which allows plenty of bonding time for the three generation family.

The "Song of Hiawatha - Chuck Wagon Cook-Off " sponsored by the Fort Pipestone Gift Shop, Four Winds Association and other local businesses. The Pipestone Four Winds Association was established in 2009 as a non-profit 501(c) 3 - organization dedicated to bringing tourism into Pipestone, educating people about the culture, heritage and history of the Native American people, and the surrounding area.

As each wagon team readied their fires and Dutch ovens in anticipation of the $2,000 Chuck Wagon Challenge, they were given their ingredients to prepare a five course meal or Meat, Beans, Bread, Potatoes and Dessert along with cowboy camp coffee. Wagons are judged also for most authentic and best display which often includes antique saddles, harnesses, hams and horse collars, farrier tools and equipment needed to survive the long enduring cattle drives. The Wagon Judges were Leroy Gorter and Allen Gilmore, both from Pipestone, Minnesota.

DT Chuck Wagon, Jim and Sue Patrick Owners

Meat:

1st Patrick’s DT Wagon, Watertown, SD

2nd Heavirland’s Flying Star Wagon, North Branch, MN

3rd Aspeslet’s Lazy A Wagon, Stoddard WI

Beans:

1^st Hallson’s Lost Creek Wagon, Long Lake, MN

2^nd Aspeslet’s Lazy A Wagon, Stoddard WI

3^rd Heavirland’s Flying Star Wagon, North Branch, MN

Bread:

1^st Hallson’s Lost Creek Wagon, Long Lake, MN

2^ndPatrick’s DT Wagon, Watertown, SD

3^rd Aspeslet’s Lazy A Wagon, Stoddard WI

Potato:

1^st Patrick’s DT Wagon, Watertown, SD

2^nd Heavirland’s Flying Star Wagon, North Branch, MN

3^rd Aspeslet’s Lazy A Wagon, Stoddard WI

Dessert:

1^st Patrick’s DT Wagon, Watertown, SD

2^nd Aspeslet’s Lazy A Wagon, Stoddard WI

3^rd Heavirland’s Flying Star Wagon, North Branch, MN

Best wagon was a tie between the DT Chuck Wagon Team owned by the Patrick's along with the Lost Creek Chuck Wagon owned by J.T. Hallson. Runner up was the Lazy A owned by the Aspeslet family.

Sunday morning, the wagons served up a fabulous Dutch oven breakfast that included coffee, orange juice, bacon, sausage, eggs and hash browns. Then, four youngsters were invited to participate in the American Chuck Wagon Kid’s dessert contest. The children were given the ingredients to make an apple crisp and assigned to a wagons to cook with in a dutch oven. Two wagons took two kids each, and it ended up being a bit of a “boys vs. girls” competition!

Emma, an 8 year old and Cloe, also 8 years old both cooked with the Flying Star Wagon, while Cole an 8 year old and Andrew, a 13 year old, cooked with the DT Wagon. When it was all said and done, Cole won the contest with his blueberry applecrisp, while Emma, Cloe and Andrew were runner-ups. "The kids had a great time and enjoyed cooking with the chuck wagons," states Cassandra Swanson, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

The fun loaded "Water Tower Festival" weekend came to an end. Each Chuckwagon loaded up heading off into different direction viewing the beautiful sunset. "There were many great sponsors of this event, and we want to thank each of them for all of their support," stated Cassandra Swanson. For more information on Pipestone, Minnesota visit their web site www.pipestoneminnesota.com and for Chuckwagon Events, view the American Chuck Wagon Association web page at www.americanchuckwagon.org

HIAWATHA

Hiawatha, a legendary chieftain of the Iroquois, supposedly lived in about 1570. He is credited with having unified the Five Nations of the Iroquois for their protection against the stronger Algonquin people. According to legend, Hiawatha employed miraculous powers to protect his people from the evil forces of nature. He also instructed the Iroquois in the arts of medicine, agriculture, and navigation.

Cabela's Six Annual Dutch Oven Cook-Off, Mitchell, South Dakota

2011-08-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

Story by Cassandra Swanson

Mitchell, SD – Saturday, August 20, 2011, Cabela’s hosted its’ 6^th Annual Dutch Oven Cook Off. Eleven adult teams and six youth teams attended despite early morning rains and created fifteen main courses and fifteen desserts.

The skies cleared by 10 am and our local and professional judges had a great time seeing all the unusual recipes cooked in Dutch ovens. Hundreds of Cabela shoppers enjoyed these amazing Dutch oven dishes, and it was a lot of fun for everyone adding the Kid’s event this year. Also new this year, Cabela’s had the public choose a “Friendliest Camp “ – taking home this great prize was Luinea Caldwell and Regina Geringer…Cabela's is known for hosting great events and offering wonderful prizes - as well as a good sale during their annual Fall Expo Weekend.

Cabela’s also sponsored the ‘main course secret meat and spice – this year, it was ‘something fowl’ that turned out to be chicken breasts! Taking home the prizes were:

MAIN COURSE:

1^st – Jason Gebhard and Dave Johnson of Mitchell, SD - better known as the “Bacon Brothers” with their Jambalaya;

2^nd – Lefty Olson of Papillion, Nebraska and 'Chuck' of Wisconsin’s Jack Daniels Fried Chicken

3^rd – Wes Stigen of Iola, Wisconsin’s Enchilada Suisa

4^th – Luinea Caldwell and Regina Geringer of Brandon, SD - Chicken Marsala

5^th – Clell Swanson of Canton, SD - Crispy Chicken Nuggets and Taters

DESSERTS:

1^st – Jim Johnsen of Wessington, SD – Old Fashion Peach Cobbler

2^nd - Adam Johnsen of Sioux Falls, SD – Black Forest Cake

3^rd – Luinea Caldwell and Regina Geringer, Brandon, SD – Chocolate Turtle Cheese Cake

4^th – Clell Swanson of Canton, SD – Pecan Pie Muffin Cake

5^th – Lefty Olson of Papillion, Nebraska and 'Chuck' of Wisconsin’s Jalapeno Cheesecake with Raspberry Pepper Sauce.

KIDS DESSERTS:

1^st – Jack – Caramel Apple Bread Pudding

2^nd – Levi and Ethan – Apple Dump Cake

KIDS MAIN COURSE:

1^st – Nathan and Matthew – Bacon Chicken Dumplings

2^nd – Caleb and Ellie – Cheesy Hashbrown Bacon Egg Bake

3^rd – CJ – Gravy Smothered Pork Chops

4^th – Allison – Lamb and Veggies

The Dutch oven cooks will be back October 15-16 for the Annual Pheasant Opener Weekend, so be sure to come out and sample the delicious food and take advantage of the great season opener sales. If you would like more Dutch oven info, see the International Dutch Oven Society Website at www.IDOS.com, or check out Dakota Dutchers on FACEBOOK who meet regularly in Sioux Falls. Your next chance to experience a Dutch oven cook off will be in Sioux Falls, SD on September 10th at Nybergs ACE.

Cabela's, is the World's Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, was born somewhat inadvertently in 1961. Today, they lead the way to outdoor gear throughout the United States.

TOP CHEF Saddles up "TEXAS STYLE"

2011-08-16T23:48:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesies Traci Davis TnT Ranch

Story By Roger Edison

The BRAVO Culinary hit "Top Chef" is coming to Texas for season nine. Filming in San Antonio, Austin and Dallas, Bravo announced they will be adding two celebrity Chefs to the panel of judges. Emeril Lagasse along with Hugh Acheson will join the table with host, Padma Lakshmi, Chef Tom Colicchio and food critic Gail Simmons.

Chef Hugh Acheson competed during the third season on TOP CHEF MASTERS. He is the Chef and partner of Five and Ten, The National, Gosford Wine, and Empire State South restaurants. Acheson's combination of Southern style cooking mix with European flavors has made him a successful culinary artist.

Emeril is perhaps best known for his Cajun cultural cooking and slamming the "Bam" of spices in his dishes. His long time celebrity status has made him a favorite with Food Network shows, Emeril Live and the Essence of Emeril. Mastering unique Creole, Portuguese, French and Cajun cuisine, Emeril is more than a successful restaurateur and no new comer to the Lone Stat State.

Jim Hodges and Emeril Lagasse

In 2002, Emeril, Cowboy Up when the Food Network filmed a piece called "Emeril Salutes America." The show was filmed in key locations across the United States including, San Francisco, Boston, Nashville, New Orleans, Houston, Seattle, Detroit, and finished with a special New York Cruise Special. The program aired from Sunday, September 29th through Sunday October 6th, 2002.

The idea for the program came the year following a grieving nation due to the 9/11 incident that shocked a peaceful world with the extreme acts of terrorism. The show took the viewers back to the roots of the American Food Culture and what makes the nation great.

Part of the segments, included Chef Nick Castelberg assisted by Cowboy friend Jim Hodges. "I was lucky enough to be representing the “Cowboy” way of cooking," states Chef Nick. The producers of the show meet with Nick at the private ranch located outside of Houston, Texas. Several days later, in March 2002, Emeril arrived to begin filming the segment of Chuck Wagon cooking discussing the wholesome foods of the early cowboys who worked the cattle drives.

"We had Buffalo Stew with beans cooked over the camp fire," states Chef Nick. "I made some 'special' biscuits from one of Emeril's recipes using the Dutch ovens loaded with bacon, onion and garlic. Oh, they were good and Emeril just love them! Then Emeril and I made a Peach cobbler together using strawberry jam as a thickener instead of starch. Man ole man, Emeril liked that too," Chef Nick continued.

"The opening shot for the Texas segment was filmed with Emeril on horseback. That was done under the watchful eye of Jim Hodges, who is also a public speaker, author, teacher, entrepreneur, inventor, combat veteran of the Vietnam War, public servant that has worked professional security, law enforcement, and the military - all parallel to Jim's first passion - He's a great cowboy," states Chef Nick.

"This was Emeril's first time in a saddle as he had never been on a horse before. At least he did not fall off but the producer was really afraid he would," stated Jim.

"Jim got him schooled up pretty quick, although Emeril still looked a little green on camera," confesses Chef Nick. "After filming several hours at the ranch, we had some studio shots added later in the editing room for the program. The complete film crew along with Emeril had a ball filming this segment. Emeril is truly one of nicest folks you will ever meet. Jim and I still hold that day as one of our greatest moments. Food is truly a global language and the legends of Texas cowboys is also globally known. I felt honored to represent Texas and the legendary Cowboys," concluded Chef Nick.

Jim Hodges and Chef Nick Castelberg have shot several different films over the years. National and international T.V., Print, Voice over, Commercials, Historical reenactments are among the list of shows they have worked together own.

Chef Nick began his cooking career after completing an enlistment in the United States Navy. He attended Culinary School before finding his dream as a private cook at the George Ranch Historic Park, located in Richmond, Texas. Although, he did admit to learning how to cook outdoors using a Dutch oven at age 12 when he was a Boy Scout. Now mastering many recipes through the years and Cowboy Cuisine, Chef Nick has been often asked about recipes, and secrets to cooking where he first compiled a cook book, titled "A Culinary Connection: 100 Years of Historic Meals" that is available through George Ranch. Additionally, he was convinced to sell some of his rubs and sauces through the Ranch Gift shop before creating his own private line South Texas Trade Co. that includes various rubs, Pinto beans seasoning and dried Salsa the requires adding a can of tomatoes and a cup beer that can go anywhere. The salsa is in two labels, Texas mild and full blown Triple XXX spicy hot.

Texas was founded on a huge influence of world foods. First with native Americans followed by Spanish and French exploration before finally becoming settled by many European ancestors. Today, the Lone Star State shares a world influence while holding to it's roots of traditional Cowboy and Chuckwagon Cooking along with the best Texas-Mexican cuisines and Barbecues.

As Emeril learned the in's and outs of Cowboy cooking, it will be interesting to see how Hugh Acheson cowboys up. I don't believe riding a horse will be enough to top Emeril, so I expect to see Hugh ride out on a Texas Longhorn, but we will just have to wait and see if we find the cast of season nine all wearing Cowboy hats and boots as the Emmy-Award show "Top Chef" saddles up Texas style.

Ask and You Shall Receive

2011-08-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

Gary Taylor with Tom Davis arrive with the restored Studebaker Wagon

Cow Camp Cowboy Church

Several weeks ago, I heard about a new Christian Ministries in Weatherford, Texas obtaining a restored 1880's era STUDERBAKER wagon. The congregation plans to convert the wagon into a working Chuck Wagon as did Charles Goodnight when he planned the logistics for his first cattle drive. Goodnight selected a Army surplus supply wagon manufactured by Studerbaker. Then added the pantry that had the fold down table that has become known as the chuck box. The group are members of Cow Camp Cowboy Church plan to use the wagon for many future gatherings states, Traci Davis, who is a member of the congregation and co-owner of T-N-T Ranch along with her husband Tom Davis.

With such excitement over the wagon, Traci expressed that while this is a beautiful wagon, they are a long ways from a full conversion. A basic wagon will need many items to complete the task. Luke 11: 9 "And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for." Traci's prayer is merely for the help to outfit this fine restoration so it can be used to bring forth Christian fellowship.

Items like building the future Chuck box, a boot box, fire box along with adding the bows, canvas cover and such will slowly come into gear. Chuck wagons also had to be outfitted with cookware using cast iron dutch ovens and skillets, Enamelware coffee pots, iron spit and tri pod are just a few items that will be needed to making this into a fully functional Chuck Wagon. Of course, what wagon would not be complete without having the large water barrel and the mounted coffee grinder.

Pastor Frank Johnson is the minister of the Cow Camp Cowboy Church. He has a vision that some may believe is as big as a 10-gallon hat, and rightly so, that vision is to bring the gospel of the Lord to the small town community of Weatherford in a way that people can relate and enjoy through Cowboy Ministries. Their motto is "Gathering Mavericks and making top hands" where his congregation is growing since opening last April.

Pastor Johnson wants people to see “cowboy” as they drive-by the church. Also have parking attendants greet visitors by horseback, and most of all to have the church function as a haven of rest and fellowship, much as the historic cow camps did during the days of the Texas cattle drives.

He moved to Weatherford from East Texas with hopes to eventually have more acreage with a Rodeo Arena, bleachers and facilities to host many large scale Cowboy Christian gatherings. However, for now, operating on several acres and the recently restored wagon is an exciting start.

Pastor Johnson stated, he does not plan to use the wagon in Chuckwagon Cooking Competition, but would like to use it as a spiritual tool. The Chuckwagon not only provided as a kitchen but was home on the range for the working cowboy.

Other Cowboy Ministries have used the chuckwagons in unique ways. David and Sherry Roberts, owner of Deep Fork Cattle Company in Chandler, Oklahoma along with Arb Lenamon of Fannin, Texas are among several Chuck wagon teams who annually team up for Cowboys for Heroes. A program assisting wounded military members from Iraq and Afghanistan along with their families held at Brooks Army Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas. The Cowboy for Heroes provides a western entertainment day that is a free event for the military members held annual during spring each year.

Other Cowboy Ministries are helping out nation wide, too. Whether traveling to events or at home in their local communities, the Chuck wagon seems to make people feel at home. Perhaps it's the aroma of coffee, a hearty meal or sitting around a camp fire in the western environment that makes folks comfortable. Sometimes, one merely needs to Ask, and you shall receive. We look forward to the progress and completion of the Cow Camp Cowboy Church Chuck Wagon.

If you desire to assist or contribute too Cow Camp Cowboy Church, please contact the Pastor Frank Johnson. Email cowcampcowboychurch@gmail.com or call 817-594-1447.

Wish list: old wind up alarm clock, cast iron cookware, enamelware coffee pot and cookware, Canvas fly, poles, water barrel, coffee grinder, grates, firebox, spits, tri pod, harness and old horse collars, crock, etc

Navigating the Cattle Drive

2011-08-08T16:58:00.000-07:00

Story by Roger Edison

Cattle drives were a major economic activity during the era of the American Western frontier. An estimated 20 million head of cattle were herded from Texas across the nation and the cattle trails spanned to places like the railheads of Kansas for shipments to stockyards in Chicago and points east. Other locations moved western, through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming and even Montana which developed cowtowns along the way. Many trail bosses navigated these trails without maps as they scouted the best routes that provided easy passage, grass lands and water. Contrary to belief, navigation of these trails were frequently using a pocket watch to confirm the general direction an not relying on the stars.

The Cattle drives struck a balance between speed and the weight of the cattle. While cattle could be driven as far as 25 miles in a single day, they would lose too much weight that would result in a lower value per head at the end of the trail. To prevent such weight lose, the trail boss moved the cattle shorter distances each day. This allowed for the cattle to graze and rest, normally at midday and at night. On an average, the herds move between 10 to 15 miles each day allowing to maintain a healthier weight that would resulted with better pricing once at market. Such a pace meant that the drives would last two or more months before reaching their final destination.

Navigating the trails and wide-open plains was as easy as pointing their wagons every evening to the North Star is a mere half truth to navigation. The trail boss and cook navigated by day checking directions, staying the course.

The cattle rested at night and the chuck wagon cook place the tongue towards the north star before turning in each night. This aided the wranglers who would ride out at night to stand watch over the herd. Rotating members through the night allowed each to get some sleep before the next day. Although, it was during the day that the trail boss navigated and often without the use of a compass. He used a pocket watch to check his course dividing the watch into 360 degrees or the points on a compass. The hour hand aimed at the sun, the trail boss could determine the line of direction from North to South.

POCKET WATCH

The trail boss or cook would hold their pocket watch out in front like a compass. They would aim the watch hour hand (the shorter hand for those who use a digital watch to tell time) while splitting the distance between the hour hand and the 12 on the watch. As shown, 8:15AM the split would be near 10 which indicated the southern direction and north 180 compass degrees or the location of the number 4 on the face dial of the pocket watch. The direction will be correct if the watch is set for true local time, without adjustments for modern daylight savings time. Additionally, the further you are from the equator, the more accurate this method will be. Today, if in daylight savings, the split is move up to the 1 vice the 12 and if in a survival situation south of the equator, then point the number 12 at the sun and NORTH will be half-way between the number 12 and the short hour-hand on the watch.

Daytime navigation was essential and the cowboys learned many methods to check direction without the aid of a compass. However, the pocket watch was the most commonly used. Each morning, the cook verified the sunrise knowing the sun rises in the East and sets in the West. The best time to determine east or west is in the early morning and late evening when the sun is near the horizon. The middle of the day it was more challenging to accurately determine east and west by simply looking at the sun.

At night, the cowboys did use the stars to assist knowing direction commonly using the North Star since these cattle drives where conducted in the northern hemisphere. The easiest way to locate the North Star known as (POLARIS) was to know three constellations. Ursa Major also called (The Big Dipper), Ursa Minor also known as (The Little Dipper) and Cassiopeia.

As the earth rotates, the Big Dipper may be found above, below, east or west of the little dipper. However, Polaris will be the first star on the handle of the Little Dipper and always half way between the constellations Ursa Major and Cassiopeia.

The North Star

Additionally, viewing the Big Dipper, Polaris will be 5 times the distant of the two outer stars of the Big Dippers cup. Notice the line from the bottom of this cup to the upper star. If you follow this line out the distance between the distance of the two stars, this comes directly in path to Polaris. The cowboys would daze upon the stars and watch them appear to be moving as the earth rotated.

Although, stars were just another tool for navigation. They also use the moon. Except during a full moon, or the term new moon when it is not visible. An easy rule to remember is this old navigation trick, although it is not particularly accurate but would provide as a rough guide, and in many situations this is good enough.

If the moon is in a crescent stage, the cowboy could draw an imaginary line through the tips of its "horns" down to the horizon. The point where it touches is roughly South for the northern hemisphere and North for the southern hemisphere. Additionally, the bright side of the moon always pointed towards the sun. If the moon rises before the sun sets, the illuminated side will be facing west. However, if it rises after midnight, the illuminated side will be facing east as the moons illumination is the reflection of sun light.

The trail boss and cook kept good notes as they navigated. Over time, they mapped the best routes, locations of water and distance between rivers, creeks along with the various terrain. Some may not have been able to even read or write but they knew how to read the stars, they read the land and the hands on their watch that worked as aids to get the cattle to market along the trail drive only to use once more finding their way home.

HOT and DRY Cowboy Humor

2011-07-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

It's been so hot and dry this month. I went out to milk the Cows and all I got was evaporated milk. My neighbor went out to also milked his Cow and all he got was butter. Another neighbor tried milking his cows and all he got was powder milk. Yep, it's been a hot summer.

It's been so hot and dry this month, I've had to eat jalapenos to cool down my mouth.

It's been so hot this month, I jumped into the Ford Dually and branded myself with the seat belt. Now my navel say's Ford Safety Division.

It's been so hot this month, I actually have to wear my wife's oven mitts to hold the steering wheel when I drive.

It's been so hot and dry this month, my horse has checked into the Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa.

It's been so hot and dry this month, last weekend we tried fishing. The only bait the fish liked was our bottled water.

It's been so hot this month, the swimming pool is boiling hotter than a hot tub.

It's been so hot this month, my brother in law's deer feeder turned into a popcorn machine.

It's been so hot this month, I was headed to the feed store when I saw a funeral procession stopped at the Dairy Queen.

It's been so hot this month, the chickens are laying their eggs sunny side up.

It's so hot this month, we ate our half gallon of Blue Bell Ice Cream while still shopping in the store.

Why it's been so hot and dry, that HELL filled bankruptcy because Texas reported more heat waves and had more souls.

Yes, it has been a very...very... hot summer, that even Lucifer was seen holding a cardboard sign along South Texas Hwy-77 heading north. The sign said "Alberta - Anyone"
Why even the Devil can not tolerate this Texas Heat.

DUTCH OVEN COOKING HOSTED by Texas Parks and Wildlife

2011-07-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

Chuck wagon

From Slavery to Cattle Rancher, Cowboy of a different Breed

2011-06-28T12:14:00.000-07:00

Daniel Webster Wallace

Story by Roger Edison

As we reflect to imagine the Cowboys who operated the long cattle drives of the late 1800's; we likely think of it as perhaps a scene from a "John Wayne" movie. Perhaps pondering ideas of the life without much thought to the actual daily hard work, inclement weather, long hours in the saddle and sleeping each night on the ground. Rarely do we imagine the many men from several races and their stories nor the many true dangers they endured each day operating the cattle drives.

Many of these cow punches came to Texas looking for work after the end of the Civil War as there was a high demand for beef and Texas had plenty of longhorns needing men to drive herds often over a thousand miles to market. These men came from almost every imaginable background. Many were Anglo, though a large number of Mexican Vaqueros were already working the longhorn cattle and several blacks helped with these drives. Some of these negro wranglers changed history and became very famous, such as Nat Love and legendary Bose Ikard who was Charles Goodnight's most loyal friend.....This is the story of a man less famous but grew a fortune as a Texas Cattleman....This is the story of "80 John",

It was September 15, 1860 when Mrs Mary Wallace, a negro slave in Inez, Texas gave birth to her son. Mary had been sold to the O'Daniel family just three months prior. Mrs O'Daniel who was present asked, "Mary, he a handsome lad. What will you name him?" Mary replied, "Daniel. How about Daniel Webster Wallace".

While Daniel was born into slavery, he was treated much like family on the O'Daniel farm growing up playing and working with the O'Daniels two sons, M. H. and Dial. However, Daniel did not care much for farming growing tired of his job chopping cotton. The Civil War had ended several years earlier and Daniel now being a free man dreamed of being a COWBOY. He was a mere 17 years old when he ran away venturing his dreams of the west and cattle drives. Although, he remain good friends with the O'Daniel family through out his life.

Young Daniel truly just a green horn found his first job as a Cowboy with little effort joining the cattle drives of 1877. He drove cattle for C. C. Slaughter, Isaac L. Ellwood, Andrew B. Robertson, Sam Gholson, C. A. "Gus" O'Keefe, and for the Bush and Tillar Cattle Company. He worked for John Nunn's N.U.N. cattle outfit on the headwaters of the Brazos River as a wrangler and horse breaker.

However, Daniel with no education and much bigger dreams than the many peers he worked with knew he needed schooling if he planned to be a businessman. At age twenty-five he returned to school in Navarro County, where he was admitted to the second grade, and in two winters learned to read and write.

Now in his later-twenties, Daniel joined Clay Mann's outfit near Colorado City in Mitchell County, Texas. The Mann's cattle brand was a large eight zero read as 80 on the side of cattle that Daniel branded. Daniel could out brand, out work and perform better than any other wrangler in the outfit. It was there that Daniel earned the nickname "80 John". He voiced his dream with Clay Mann about wanting to one day own a Ranch. Mann agreed to help him become his own rancher by taking wages as cattle rather than dollars. Mann implemented a plan that would pay Daniel Webster Wallace "80 John" five dollars a month from his thirty-dollar wage for two years and put the remainder aside to invest in his own herd, for which Mann provided free pasture. This working relationship nurtured a bond of mutual trust and respect which lasted until Mann's death in 1889. Two years later Wallace moved his cattle to 1,280 acres which he had purchased in 1885 and started ranching for himself southeast of Loraine in Mitchell County.

He became one of the most respected black ranchers of his time. His Durham cattle brand was a D triangle and on his Herefords he used a D on the right hip and a running W on one side. "80 John" married Laura Dee Owens who was considered highly educated to his standards on April 8, 1888; they had three daughters and a son. Daniel Wallace was a member of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association for thirty years. He died on March 28, 1939, leaving an estate worth more than $1 million, and was buried on his ranch. A state historical marker in Loraine, Texas commemorates his life.

RHINESTONE COWBOYS

2011-06-03T22:50:00.000-07:00

Jamie Nudie and Mary Lynn

Story by Roger Edison

In early 1962, the rising country legend Porter Wagoner was setting the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. He had been entertaining audiences at the Opry since 1957 and began the syndicated "Porter Wagoner Show" in 1960. Talking with his long time friend and business manager, Don Warden who also played steel guitar with Porter's band, Wagoner said, "Don, I think I need to build a new look."

Porter was working on a new release “Misery Loves Company.” After giving Porter's comments some thought. Don suggested, "Porter, maybe you just need to do some nudies." There was a long pause between to two men when Don continued, "NUDIE COHN, you know, that Rhinestone tailor in Hollywood." The two laughed for a moment, then Porter replied, "Yes, I think I'm gonna fluster some of those feathers on Minnie Pearl and tell her I'm doing the show in the Nudie."

Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton

Porter contacted Nudie Cohn about purchasing a suit. Nudie offered the suit to Wagoner for free, confident that the popular performer would serve, in effect, as a billboard for his clothing line. After several weeks of hand stitching, the western suit was finished featuring eccentric embroidery of Wagon Wheels, Covered Wagons and Cactus scenery where Rhinestones glittered under the stage lights. The suit was flashy by any Cowboy standards yet set well on stage. His TV Show aired to nearly two hundred markets and seen by an estimated 3.5 million viewers that set the stage of the Rhinestone Cowboys.

Wagoner over the next two decades wore a huge collection of custom made suits by Nudie. As Wagoner introduced many new country music artists through his TV Show, many of these artist would also became music legends who frequently turned to Nudie for their custom tailoring.

The Porter Wagoner Show popularized country music and gospel tunes across the United States. His flashy apparel promoted the fashion of Rhinestone Cowboys, though the greatest credits perhaps should go to the tailor Nudie Cohn who's innovated designs create such appeal that influence the bling in modern western attire. The Nudie designs have been worn by many early Hollywood western stars like Gene Autry, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans along with hundreds of other celebrities through the years including Ronald Reagan. Like Porter Wagoner, Elvis, ZZ Top, Gram Parsons, Cher, Elton John, Michael Landon, Glenn Campbell and Hank Williams are also amongst the many names who wore Nudie's creations.

Nudie was born in 1902 as Nuta Kotlyarenko from Kiev, Russia. At age 11, his parents sent him and his brother Julius to the United States to avoid the pogrom violence against Jews by Czarist Russians. It was rumored; Nuta's name change to Nudie Cohn came about when an Irish Immigration Officer at Ellis Island, NY spelled his name incorrectly.

Nudie first worked many odd jobs including shoe shine boy living in Brooklyn, NY before venturing out. Hopping freight trains and hitchhiking, he headed west to California at 16 years old to becoming a boxer. By 19, Nudie had even received some minor rolls in silent movies. Though, not reaching stardom and to earn extra money, he began making costumes for such clients as actress Gloria Swanson, who was the first-ever nominee with the Academy Awards for Best Actress.

Not finding the success he had hope for, along with being broke, Nudie returned to Brooklyn to visit family in 1928. Shortly after his return, he got mixed up with the wrong influences and did time in Leavenworth for trafficking in drugs. After being released from prison, Nudie moved to Mankato, Minnesota in 1934 living in a boardinghouse. There, Nudie met and built a relationship with the boarding house owner’s daughter, Helen Barbara Kruger. The two moved to Manhattan, but returned to Minnesota shortly later to get married. After the wedding, they returned to the bright lights of the big apple. Nudie began working and designing clothes with his wife Helen who was now known as "Bobbie Nudie." They opened up their first shop "Nudie's for the Ladies" in Manhattan selling custom made undergarments, consisting of G-strings and lingerie for the showgirls of Broadway.

In an interview before Bobbie's death in 2006, she stated “We lived at a hotel frequented by gamblers and the gangster Pretty Boy Floyd, with whom they struck up a friendship." After several years struggling in New York, they returned to Mankato to open a dry-cleaning and tailoring shop. As they hitchhiking back to Minnesota, a large white Cadillac flew past them as Nudie realized the driver was Tom Mix, a huge Hollywood Cowboy movie star. "Someday, they are going to eat my dust," Nudie said to Bobbie. Several years after their move, they had their only child, Barbara.

As the great depression came to an end, the movie industry had grown. Nudie who was fascinated with the Cowboys of the motion pictures wanted a change of direction. Selling their business for $2,700 during early 1940 they headed for California.

They first worked from their garage creating colorful garments of gabardine suits, satin shirts with exquisite works of embroidered chain-stitching. Perhaps influenced by the creative Nathan Turk or Rodeo Ben who where two separate tailors but well established working with the Hollywood Cowboys. Nudie pushed the limits further being first to add Rhinestones to his designs.

In 1947, Nudie met with a struggling country music artist purposing if the singer would purchase him a new sewing machine, he'd make the singer custom clothes. The artist provided a horse and a saddle they auctions for $150 and Nudie purchased his needed sewing machine. The country music artist was Tex Williams. Shortly after having the custom suits made for him and his band by Nudie, they performed at the Palace Barn. Opening night of their performance may have been mediocre, the second night sold out crediting Nudie for the extravagant suits. Tex recorded that same year, "Smoke, Smoke, Smoke that Cigarette" which sat as Billboard number one song for six weeks and was the Number 5 song on the Billboard's Top 100. The song also was the number one country song of the year. Soon, other artist including Lefty Frizzell along with Cliffie Stone gave Nudie the chance that set him on his way to success.

Bobbie decided before they do any more business, they needed to open a new shop and with the help of friends, they moved the business from their garage to North Hollywood. At the corner of Vineland and Victory Street dealing exclusively in western wear, they open "Nudies of Hollywood" which featured a "Naked Cowgirl" on the clothing label. Soon, Nudie was creating amazing rhinestone-studded, hand-embroidered suits for Hank Williams and western shirts and outfits for Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. Nudie became Roy and Dale's exclusive tailor creating every garment for their personal appearances along with building a strong life long personal friendship with them.

Roy Rogers and Dale Evans

Throughout the 1950's, Nudies success grew along with the list of celebrity clientele. Frequently contracted for movie sets, Nudie made clothing for many western's attracting John Wayne into his line up of celebrities. Although, John Wayne stuck to traditional ranch wear. He liked the conservative wardrobe where others came for the flash.

Alan Hanson, author of Elvis '57: The Final Fifties Tours wrote; Colonel Parker who was Elvis Presley's manager approached Nudie to have a suit made for Elvis. The suit would become nearly as famous, featuring rhinestones with 24K gold lame jacket, pants with matching shirt and bow tie. Elvis too, remained a loyal Nudie customer.

As the decade entered into the 60's, Nudie had hired Manuel Cuevas who was working for master embroiderer, Viola Grae. Manuel, born in Mexico had learned to sew by age seven, although he studied at the University of Guadalajara majoring in psychology. Moving to Los Angeles during the 1950's, Manuel began working his sewing skills eventually landing him into the prestigious Sy Devore of Hollywood tailoring custom suits for top celebrities including the Rat Pack featuring Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. Although, making exceptionally fine suits lacked Manuel's creative cravings which he found teaming with Nudie Cohn. He also soon married Nudie's Daughter Barbara an adopted her daughter Jamie who had been fathered by Jimmy Wilson, the Sun Studio piano player.

Moving the shop to Lankershim Boulevard, Nudie made several changes including the name becoming "Nudies Rodeo Tailors" and clothing the naked cowgirl on their label. Some say Dale Evans convinced Nudie to change the label. Others say it was when Nudie converted to Christianity. Additional changes included hiring Rose Clements, a master embroiderer from England. Rose also brought her own machines along with the knowledge how working a variety of complex stitches.

Nudie's elaborate creations did not stop with just tailoring the fruitful fertility of fine western suits. From unique cowboy boots to electrifying automobiles, his flamboyant style engendered the retro cowboy life style. Bobbie Cohn was quoted in the New York Times stating, "He loved big cars. In the early 1950's he hung huge long horns to the grill of his Hudson and was known to hand out Silver Dollars to kids as he drove around Hollywood."

Approached by Art Miller, a car dealer and horseman, Nudie was contracted to transform his style of clothing into a custom convertible to promote the dealership. Mounting gold plated hand guns use as door handles and gear shifts, adding Winchesters along the fenders, too upholstering the custom hand tooled decorated leather interiors adorned with silver dollars, countless hours of turning the average classy machines into a eulogy of enchantment became the status symbol for the Rhinestone Cowboy.

Nudie Cohn Pontiac Bonneville

These became the billboard of attraction for modern day cowboys who not only wore the clothing, but desire the ride as grand as the Wild West. Nudie would customize 18 cars in all. Buck Owens, George Jones, Webb Price, along with several oil men and a dozen others owned Nudie custom automobiles. While these unique cars were built from various models, most were Pontiac Bonneville's.

Nudie had given one of his cars along with a single axle "Covered Wagon" Camper Trailer to Roy Rogers. He tried to give a 1973 Grand Ville to Elvis, although the handlers would not accept the car perhaps in fear Elvis might purchase a fleet of them, stated Jim Shaw, who was Buck Owens manager. Today that car hangs above the bar at Buck Owens's Crystal Palace, in Bakersfield, California.

Buck Owens's Crystal Palace displays custom Nudie Auto

Most of the cars today are displayed in museums. Although, highly sought after, Kid Rock recently purchased a '64 Pontiac Bonneville that Nudie built. The price tag $225,000. The white convertible with mounted Texas longhorns on the hood seems to states it's cool to be a cowboy and was featured in Kid Rock's music video "Born Free." The car was previously owned by Hawk Williams Jr. and in 1968 became a display in the Smokey Mountain Car Museum. In 2006, a Texas lawyer and avid car collector, John O'Quinn acquired the car. Upon O'Quinns death, the car went to auctions where Kid Rock made his purchase and photographed as the cover of the "Born Free" album.

Son in law Manuel Cuevas would leave the business in the mid 1970's after having a heart breaking affair ending in a divorce from Nudie's daughter Barbara. Manuel opened up his own shop in North Hollywood purchasing a dozen used sewing machines from Nathan Turk who had just retired for health reasons. While Manuel was no longer part of the Nudie business, he carried over the art skill from his Sensei.

Nudie shamelessly promoted his business strutting around town is his outrageous suits, dazzling automobiles and frequently wearing mismatch boots reminding him of his humble beginnings. The son of a poor cobbler, Nudie carved out his legacy in western fashion. In 1984 at age 81, Nudie died from cancer. At his funeral, Dale Evans gave his Eulogy while the crowds of celebrities came paying their respect to the man who crossed the barriers of Western Fashion.

Larry Weiss wrote and recorded a song based on Paul Smith; title "Rhinestone Cowboy." The song was made popular by Glenn Campbell becoming number one on music charts earning Campbell a gold record selling one million copies. He also wore a Rhinestone Nudie Suit during the music video of the title song which perhaps influenced Bob Clark directing in the movie "Rhinestone" featuring Dolly Parton and Sylvester Stallone. Nudie made unique one of a kind outfits for many movie sets including the 1979 "Electric Horseman" featuring Robert Redford.

After his death, his wife Bobbie, her sister Edith, daughter Barbara and grand-daughter Jamie who honored him taking on his name continued to operate Nudie Rodeo Tailors. Bobbie was the backbone of the business. She always greeted every customer at the door in her friendly demeanor ensuring they had a fresh cup of coffee as they would comfortably be waited on.

In 1989, Manuel would leave Hollywood for Nashville. His ex-wife Barbara shortly later died from cancer at age 52. Although, Bobbie pushed on with the aid of her grand daughter Jamie who was also raising three children, daughters Desiree age 9, Yvette age 7, and a newborn son, Marc Anthony. The business continued up until Bobbie's retirement in 1994.

The Nudie legacy lives on today. While Manuel Cuevas brings his own creativity to Western fashion, he has been called "the Rhinestone Rembrandt." A style surely cultivated through Nudie. Cuevas, like Nudie makes every garment in-house and by-hand. Manuel works from his Nashville studio with his two daughters, Morelia and Jesse-Justin, and son Manuel Jr "Manny" who has also created his own label "Wear it Out - Manuel."

Manny recently created the powerful custom suit worn by American Idol season ten contestant, Paul McDonald. Manny too, brings his own talent to western fashion although the suit created by for McDonald shares a similar appearance of singer song writer Gram Parsons Nudie Suit made in 1969 while Manuel Sr was still Nudie's son in law and working at Nudie's Rodeo tailors.

No doubt, Manuel brings his 53 years of experience as the master of cowboy couture. His son Manny is also an exceptionally talented tailor. While Rhinestones are one medium of their signature designs, their unique embroidery work consummates extravagance. Manuel has received many awards as a creative designer along with contributions towards the community of Nashville. Also the focal point too many TV shows including a special episode on ABC Network Primetime. Like Nudie, Manuel and son Manny continue to keep the Rhinestone Cowboy alive.

In 2004, Mary Lynn Cabrall and Nudie's grand daughter Jamie Lee Nudie co-authored the book, "Nudie the Rodeo Tailor: The Life and Times of the Original Rhinestone Cowboy." The book is available through the official web site "Nudies Rodeo Tailor" .

In 2008, a man called on Jamie stating he had a special gift to deliver to her door step. It was Mother's day and the special gift the gentleman had, turned out to be a 1964 Nudie-customized Bonneville Safari Station Wagon with rattlesnake skin interior. The car once belonged to Jamie's grandmother, Bobbie Nudie who had passed on just two years earlier in 2006 at age 92. The car had later been acquired by Canadian oil man Richard Koestsier of Calgary, Alberta who had purchased two of the Nudie automobiles. After reading the book that Jamie co-authored, he wanted to give back a piece of this legacy.

Jamie in 2010 would once more have a sense of good luck. The Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Museum had been closed in Branson, Missouri. Christi's had been commissioned to conduct the auction showcasing the fine museum pieces. Many of the items, mostly clothing have been those tailored by Nudie Cohn. Jamie, Mary Lynn Cabrall and Julie Ann Ream traveled together from Los Angeles in hopes to reclaim a piece of the Nudie history.

While Rogers stuff horse Trigger rustled up $266,500 it sold too RFD-TV cable network in Omaha, Nebraska. His 1964 silver-dollar encrusted Bonneville convertible which Nudie customize sold for $254,500 during the auction.

As emotions became intense, the three ladies waited patiently to reclaim the Roy Rogers Covered Wagon Trailer which Nudie customized and gifted to Roy several decades prior. To everyone's surprise, at Jamie's $3,000 bid, the auction block hammer closed without a challenge.

While the Nudie suits would never be worn as normal working ranch wear, Cowboys world wide have surely admire those Rhinestone Suits as they flash from the center stage of concert halls around the globe. Celebrities by the thousands who have entertained our western spirit, along with many others who share the roots of Rock and Roll have crusade the Nudie suit. Modern western fashion continues to share wild embroidery and Rhinestones. Modern Cowgirls frequently wear Rhinestones belts, Swarovski crystal sandals or fancy stitched boots. The accents stand out and sparkle. Perhaps with the attitude straight out of the song lyrics of "Rhinestone Cowboy" sung by Campbell "I'm gonna be where the lights are shinin' on me, like a Rhinestone Cowboy."

Jamie, who now enjoys life as a grand mother still finds time working tirelessly to preserve the name her grandfather and Nudie Rodeo Tailors. As she promotes the preservation of Western Heritage and the Nudie legacy across the nation, one does not have to look far to see the stupendous influence of bling which Nudie introduced into the world of the American Cowboy. He was larger than life as his legacy lives on as the Rhinestone Cowboy.

"Wear it Out-Manuel"

"KID ROCK - BORN FREE"

Cowgirl Heritage Foundation

Merle Haggard with Nudie Cohn

Gram Parsons-Nudie Suit 1969

Paul McDonald-Manny Cuevas 2011

Nudie custom interior 64 Pontiac Bonneville

Roy Rogers

Jamie Nudie with Bonneville Safari Wagon and Covered Wagon

"Wearing the Gold"

2011-05-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

Kerr County 4H Horse Club Equine Rodeo

Sidney Gibson, Senior Grand Champion

Emily Edison, Junior Reserve Champion

Texas youth participate is some very tight scoring competition during the Kerr County 4H Horse Club Equine Rodeo. The competition held in Kerrville, Texas at the Hill Country Youth Exhibition Center, concluded April 29th for the 2011 season. Events included, Straight Away Barrels, Clover Barrels, Poles, Stakes and Flag Racing with High Point scoring held through the Rodeo series.

The District 10 Texas 4H includes 21 counties finding over Nine counties taking part in the Rodeo Series. Event eligibility was broken into three categories, Novice: Ages 9-10 Junior: Ages 11-13 and Senior: Age 14-18. The unyielding competition was fierce and the greatest strife came between two riders in the Junior Category.

Nikki Sandidge won last years high point event with ease. Well seasoned working both English and Western disciplines, Sandidge has built a reputation of being a skillful equestrian. This year, Nikki started off exceptional well during the first Rodeo of the series winning first place in Poles, Stakes and Cloverleaf barrels. Macey Gratteau, also a superb equestrian took several second place wins that seem to be a top contender on the leader board during the series. However, the young rookie Emily Edison, of Bandera, Texas perform well winning first place in Straightaway Barrels and Flags while holding onto second place in Poles and the Cloverleaf barrels. As the season progress, Edison nudged the leader board more and more taking her game to the final Rodeo of the series and judges reviewing the scores.

Emily Edison joined 4H in the beginning to raise goats that could earn some possible college scholarship awards from live stock shows. Although, Emily also admits, "I've always wanted to be a Rodeo Star." While Emily has always held a passion towards horses, it wasn't until last year she realize how much people can connect with them. "Horses can read your moods," states Emily.

Laurian Crow Edison, Emily's mother stated her daughter is riding a 23 year old Quarter Horse named Herman. "We purchased Emily a younger horse named Susie that we are getting ready for the next season. Emily has used her new horse only at some exhibition runs and we have good hopes for Susie who has won 3rd in state in Utah just a few years ago. She is really good needing some mild conditioning. Emily's quarter horse Herman is old, haggard looking and looks half dead between events. But get him in the arena, he still has some gas left!" said Laurian. Emily recorded a 15.6 second run on the standard cloverleaf barrels.

Although, not everyone started out as supportive to Emily's Equine affair. Giving up all-star baseball, Emily has been a heavy slugger and superb fielder playing in the San Antonio area. Her dad was not very pleased that Emily was giving up baseball for the love of horses. Although, his attitude quickly changed after her first competition. "She rocks" stated James Edison of Pipe Creek, Texas.

Emily credit her training to Dana Shanon who operates a Horse stable in the Bandera area and her best friend Sidney Gibson who also participated in the Kerr County events. Gibson won Grand Champion in the senior events and will also be representing Bandera High School during the Texas Youth Rodeo at the State Competition in the Pole Event. Emily stated "Sidney rides Blondie that looks exactly like Sherry Cervi's horse Stingray!" Sherry Cervi broke the Thomas & Mack Center barrel racing record with a 13.49-second run in 2010 taking the lead in the world standings at the National Finals Rodeo.

Nikki Sandidge held 8 victory wins during the rodeo series earning 83 points. Emily Edison who also scored 83 in the high point series held 7 victory wins, though placed more 2 and 3rd place that nearly took the finals to victory. In a tie, Judges Awarded Grand Champion to Nikki Sandidge and Reserve Champion awarded to Emily Edison, both who performed exquisitely.

Emily stated, "I'll be entering the senior events next season riding Susie. I plan to work more on my leg-ques for running poles and slowly get her ready building her up day by day."

Novice Grand Champion was awarded to Rayni Sandidge, sister to Nikki Sandidge winning the Junior Grand Championship, Junior Reserve Champion Emily Edison, and Senior Grand Champion awarded to Sidney Gibson. These girls each awarded several prizes including Checks, Feed Buckets, Blankets and Championship BUCKLES where they cowgirl-up, now proudly wearing the gold.

Emily Edison 2011 Reserve Champion

Emily Edison riding Quarter Horse "Herman"

Tribute to Reagon Walker, Extreme Bulldogging

2011-04-24T21:25:00.000-07:00

Reagon Lynn Walker July 16, 1989 - April 23, 2011

At the final night of the Annual BUC-DAYS Miller Lite Pro Rodeo, the arena was in full house. The PRCA event, held at the American Bank Center, is south Texas Premier Rodeo where local folks come out to enjoy the cowboy way dressed in the latest western fashion. Buc Days is a celebration remembering the early days of south Texas when Buccaneer's Pirated the Gulf Coast and the beginings of the American Cowboy. Each year, the Buccaneer commission provides fantastic entertainment as well as support the educational opportunities of area students.

As my son Austin and I found our seats, the lights began to dim. Sound engineer, Benje Bendele of Crazy Heart Sound and Lighting adjusted the sound board and Rodeo announcer Boyd Polhamus begins the opening ceremony introducing Gary P. Nunn. There was this huge excitement in the audience as Nunn began singing "What I liked about Texas". The spot lights move towards one side of the arena and there, mounted horseback rode Miss Rodeo Texas, Celeste Harvey who was presenting the Texas flag. As she rode through, the flag waved and her rhinestones sparkled brightly. The song brought out the pride of Texas to everyone in the crowd. As Gary concluded the song, the grandstand filled with applause and the cries of excitement echoed, "GOD BLESS TEXAS."

Then the lights then went dark. The crowd soon became silence when Boyd spoke. "Tonight we have lost a great Cowboy. Tonight we have lost a great Texan." After a short paused, he continued, "Tonight we have lost a great Cowboy. PRCA Steer Wrestler Reagon Walker, the son of 1981 World Champion Steer Wrestler (Byron Walker) has died."

I had heard about his tragic traffic accident the day before reading several posts on facebook. One of which read that Reagon was currently in ICU with his mother at his side. Another note, from Tootie Bland, who indicated she had talked with Reagon's grandmother Mickey Walker, requesting we keep Reagon in our prayers for his recovery.

As the Rodeo announcer continued to speak, he began giving a Rodeo Blessing honoring a prayer in Reagon Walker's name. I stood there, head down, my son standing next to me. Devastated, I began to feel a tremble. Perhaps shocked to learn of his death. He was only 21 years old. I thought, how would I feel if this had been my son who was torn from life. How tragic for a parent to endure such extreme grief. How could God take anyone so young? This was Easter weekend. A time to celebrated amongst family and Church gatherings. A weekend taking photos of kids in their Sunday's best. Traditions often sharing family love, family dinner and family memories. A time to remember.

Jesus was sacrificed forgiving our sins. On the third day, he rose as the Holly Spirit and today lives for those who believe and accept Christ. God gave his child for the love of man, and yet are we not of his creation as Gods children? As the announcer continued to pray, I seem to drift into my prayer for his family, his friends and the many that knew this young man. That the grief and sorrow find comfort.

As the prayer concluded, once more Gary P. Nunn took stage. All spot lights focus to the center of the arena where the beautiful American Flag rested in the carry of Miss Rodeo. As Gary began singing the Nation Anthem, I placed my hand over my heart. I have heard this song ten thousand times before. Sung from Naval Ships, to foreign lands and at every start of any sport competition. Each word piercing with projected thought. Memories of fellow service men, women, fallen friends and hero's. As I heard the words, "That our flag was still there, " I reflected to every conflict in my life time. The contentions of southeast Asia, to the desert sands of the middle east, to the bullishness within our city streets, or radical hatefulness which seem to haunt me from each evenings news. Here I stood proud of a nation. Proud having my son at my side. Perhaps a selfish joy, yet also a heartfelt weep of discomfort. Thoughts drifting, ideas and hope that wished one day man could live among other men in total peace. Where men could find respect and appreciating others for who they are with out prejudice. To one day live were it doesn't matter whether a man wears a turban, judenhut or a Cowboy hat.

My heart felt tight. My swallow dry as a lump seem to build in my throat. My eyes became watery. Then I reflect again on the young man we honor tonight. His life so tragically was taken. His memory would forever be embraced by all those who knew him. How proud his parents must have been of him during his time of living. How proud I am of my own son who has yet held to the many victories of this young man.

One can never understand the many questions of why, though each with reason. As I rationalize within my own mind, perhaps God's calling was the need for a Champion. The need perhaps for a Steer Wrestler who could bulldog the evils among men in the glory of God. Where evils can be thrown too their back and man can live in peace.

As the Rodeo began it's first performance, the Steer Wrestlers where first to perform. Each wearing a black arm band that my son question why they would do that. I replied, "It's in honor of a man they all have come to respect."

Reagon Lynn Walker, PRCA Steer Wrestler was born July 16, 1989. He grew up in Ennis, Texas with a love for horses and the Cowboy life. He was son to 1981 World Champion Byron Walker. Reagon, living in College Station, Texas was traveling along with his girl friend Kaitlyn Larsen, of Weatherford, Texas to Oklahoma for a National Cutting Horse Association Event when they had a tragic auto accident which occurred on Highway 281 outside Jacksboro, Texas near Dallas. Kaitlyn was taken to a Ft Worth Hospital and now release.

Reagon, a 2008 graduate of Ennis High School joined the Professional Cowboys Association quickly moving his rankings upward. In 2010, Reagon won the Henderson County PRCA Stampede held in Athens, Texas with a 3.5 second score along with a win at the Lions Club PRCA Rodeo, Crockett, Texas. Ranked 82nd in the World Championship for 2010, Reagon qualified for the American ProRodeo Finals in Waco, Texas earning second place and was on the leader board for 2011.

Reagon was one of Texas Youth Rodeo's most decorated competitors earning two All-Around Cowboy titles, Two Champion Steer Wrestling titles and Reserve Championship in Cutting. He attended Weatherford College on a rodeo scholarship before entering the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association.

Playing numerous Defensive position, Reagon was a strong LION with Ennis High School Varsity Football Program. During his attendance, Ennis H. S. earned several titles 2008 Area Champions 11-2, 2007 Bi District Champions, 2006 Bi-District Finalist, 2005 Area Champions, 2004 4A Div I State Champions.

He enjoyed Rodeo and Cutting Horses a;ways working kindly training his horses. His renewed passion of cutting horses led him to meeting his sole-mate, Kaitlyn Larsen, who shows in the Cutting Horse Circuit. Kaitlyn survived the accident, had just earned Reserve Championship-Classic Non-Pro on April 16th at the Fort Worth NCHA - XTO Energy Super Stakes Cutting Champions .

Reagon leaves behind his beloved mother – Mary Walker, father – Byron Walker, 2 grandmothers – Mickey Walker & Marty Warren, uncle – Danny & Debbie Lynch, 3 aunts – Liz & Kenneth Nolen, Patricia & Lex Hayes and Teddie & Chris Duval, cousins – Chris Lynch, Kim Hermus, Patty Lynch, Little Lex Hays, Keith Hays, Taylor Dobbs, Jewel Duval, and many other cousins. He also leaves behind God-parents Mike & Cindy Blasingame, Mark & Lesa Wallace, also Rip and Cheryl Helton, as well solemate Kaitlyn Larsen along with fellow cowboys and friends, too numerous to count.

Reagon was admired amongst his fellow Cowboys. He will be greatly missed by those who had the pleasure of hearing his laugh and seeing his smile. His strive to perform his best at every endeavor which always lead towards becoming a champion. While I never met Reagon, I know I would have been honored to have had that opportunity. He was a true Texan. He was a true American Cowboy.

Reagon Walker with Kaitlyn Larsen

Tribute to Reagon Walker, Extreme Bulldogging

In honor of his memory, I would like to share the following poem, by A. E. Housman

To an Athlete Dying Young

The time you won your town the race
We chaired you through the market-place;
Man and boy stood cheering by,
And home we brought you shoulder-high.

To-day, the road all runners come,
Shoulder-high we bring you home,
And set you at your threshold down,
Townsman of a stiller town.

Smart lad, to slip betimes away
From fields were glory does not stay
And early though the laurel grows
It withers quicker than the rose.

Eyes the shady night has shut
Cannot see the record cut,
And silence sounds no worse than cheers
After earth has stopped the ears:

Now you will not swell the rout
Of lads that wore their honours out,
Runners whom renown outran
And the name died before the man.

So set, before its echoes fade,
The fleet foot on the sill of shade,
And hold to the low lintel up
The still-defended challenge-cup.

And round that early-laurelled head
Will flock to gaze the strengthless dead,
And find unwithered on its curls
The garland briefer than a girl's.

WILD TURKEY

2011-04-23T07:18:00.000-07:00

WILD TURKEY at the Goliad, Texas Ranch

Native Texan Janell Matula, is an artist who uses different mediums from oils, acrylic and water color when she creates her many different paintings seascapes, still life's or Texas scenery. She not only enjoys taking her brush to the great outdoors, but is also an avid hunter. Over one Thanksgiving holiday, she even discovers the art of cooking Wild Turkey Flautas.

At the family ranch in Goliad, Texas, Janell and children took some extra vacation days to enjoy quality time together before the remaining family would join them on Thanksgiving day. Spending days exploring the 80 acres of various oak and mesquite trees, lush grasses and country side is always a pleasant escape from Corpus Christi, Texas where Janell resides.

One morning her son Cory, who was 13 years old at the time, got up before day break to check out the wild life on the ranch. Each year they spend time hunting deer and wild boar though this was going to be an unexpected hunting season. As Cory explored away from the cabin, he found a group of wild turkeys. Unlike the term flock, turkeys are referred to as rafter. The turkeys in a five acre clearing near the cabin where feeding as they moved through the grassy pasture. Cory, with excitement, quietly moved away from the area before running to the cabin entering where he cried out "Hurry. Hurry, get the gun, there are tons of Turkeys outside," states Janell.

Janell, who is very safety conscious, would not allow Cory to use a gun unsupervised and woken from Cory's excitement. She quickly slipped on her boots with her night clothes, grab the 12 gauge shot-gun and shells and the two headed outside to the porch. She handed Cory the gun and shells as he loaded the weapon and quietly approached the rafter of turkeys in the clearing shaded by a few mesquite trees.

Janell watched Cory sneak towards them. He took aim with a deep breath. As he slowly exhaled, he squeezed the trigger firing into the rafter beading his sight on a large gobbler. The turkeys startled from the exploding sound of the shot gun quickly disappeared through the nearby Mesquite trees. Cory moved through the tall grass finding the stifle turkey. As he carried it back towards his mom, Janell could see that the gobbler was near as big as her son.

Unknowing of Cory's hunt, his dad brought a fresh store bought Turkey with him for the Thanksgiving holiday, now giving Janell one more for a feasted meal. Janell use the store bought Turkey for the dinner using a deep fried turkey recipe, and used the Wild Turkey to make the Flautas. "I couldn't keep up with the demands as I fried batch after batch," states Janell. "The family came back for seconds, then thirds."

Turkey Flauta recipe:
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Wild Fires Across the Range

2011-04-15T20:28:00.000-07:00

The evening skies of the Trans-Pecos country rest with the ambient rays of brilliant orange color as the sun sets each night. Although, the early part of April found the sky glaring its burnt orange from raging fires which spread across Texas.

Lana Grubb Hickok, former Miss Rodeo USA 1992, today resides in Crawford, Texas. She grew up in Fort Davis. Saturday evening Lana received a phone call from her 92 year old grandmother who explained that the town of Fort Davis was being evacuated due to wildfires. The family members where heading too the McDonald Observatory operated by the University of Texas for safe refuge. Lana's father, Judge George Grubb, of Jeff Davis County managed the Observatory for 25 years before becoming the county judge. Most nights are filled with star gazing, though the night of April 9th, folks who took shelter at the observatory witness the nasty fires that streamed across the west Texas horizons.

Volunteers have assisted the fire departments working throughout the night into the following week minimizing the damages. Of those volunteers was also Lana's dad, who assisted several cattle ranchers move herds to safety and combat the fires with the dozens of town folks from Fort Davis, only to return home finding his 100 year old barn and several out-buildings completely destroyed by the fire. Although Lana's dad was more fortunate than her long time friend, Ginger Fisher who lost her home and a barber shop which had been operated for decades by Ginger's dad before he passed away a few years back. Other properties like the renown McKnight house was left in ruins. As one could feel the heartfelt sorrows, Lana continued about life long friends of Fort Davis as she felt helpless. "When we were kids, we would imagine living in the beautiful mansion, The McKnight House. It was a dream house! Now ruins. Another special house destroyed was the Carlton House. This really tears my heart as the Carlton family has been life long friends with the Grubbs for over five generations. Their home too, was a Texas landmark." When questioned about wheelwright and chuck wagon enthusiast, Glenn Moreland, Lana replied, "I know Glenn and Patty really well. I haven't heard anything yet from them, but pray they and the many others are alright."

The fire started just north of the Big Bend Nation Forest in Marfa, Texas. The brutal winds pushed the fire from its origin across the hills and ranch lands, engulfing everything in its blazing path. Emergency Management quickly announce for personnel to safely evacuate the region as volunteer fire fighters gathered to battle the raging fires. The Fort Davis National Historic Sight has not seen a drier spring season since 1895. Extreme wildfire dangers continue across many states due to a pervasive drought conditions, high temperatures, high winds, and low relatively humidity.

Don Witte, who makes his winter home at Fort Davis, understands the dangers of wild fires. He spends his summer months at his second home located in Boulder, Colorado. Last year, during Memorial Day weekend, Colorado wild fires destroyed his garage and neighbors home.

Bob Dillard, editor of the weekly Jeff Davis County Mountain Dispatch stated, "It was just horrific. Buildings, homes and live stock all on fire." Another report stated, "One horse's hide was in flames and was doused with water to put the fire out. Although the horse suffered such server burns, it was then shot on location after a quick evaluation."

"A chard cow laid alongside the road" states news reporter Sterry Butcher, Big Bend Sentinel. RV parks, camp grounds and hiking trails closed and motorist evaluated the area. The smoke could be seen for miles upon miles often blinding the highways sparing little through it's path. Heirlooms and keepsakes forever lost. Many families now left without their homes, clothes and belongings.

Embers continued burning through Saturday night. The hills and Davis mountain side was lined with the glowing fires which would continue smoldering into the following week. Electrical power and telephone service lost made communication difficult, now slowly being restored as crews work around the clock to restore life back to normal in the Davis Mountains. Sandi Billingsley is one of many volunteer firefighters for Fort Davis. “We have people donating things all over. They have been nothing short of generous.” Items needed still are food, water, blankets and clothing. Also donations can be made to the Jeff Davis County Relief Fund

The West Texas wildfires have decimated more than 165,000 acres, destroying nearly 40 homes in Fort Davis alone. While firefighters work to extinguish the immediate threat, the true hardship begins for those families who have lost their homes and belongings. The Jeff Davis County Relief Fund has been established to help the families and the victims of the National Emergency Rockhouse Fire. Donations will go specifically to help the families and victims of the wildfires. These families are hard working people who for generations have lived in their homes built by their ancestors.

Other areas across Texas have been plagued with wild fires. Linda Hannifin from Midland, Texas watched fires burn about five miles from her home. "From what I have read and seen on the news, they have been put out in this area. However, it seems like there are new ones that spring up every day," stated Linda. She posted several of the photos with a face-book link to the Texas Hill County Magazine.

Tongue River Ranch, owned by Millard Morris of DeRidder, Louisiana begins their annual calf round-up during this time of year. Even fires have been seen across the ranch which includes areas in both the Texas panhandle and Northeast New Mexico. Ranchers across the state work to gather herds and live stock moving them to safer ground. Fencing along several highways collapse as the post turn to ash allowing cattle to wonder across roads.

Lisa Hanson of Moore, Oklahoma was house sitting for friends in Guthrie, Oklahoma during the first weekend of April. Departing early Monday morning on April 4th for work back in Moore, Ok where she is a special education teacher, she found traffic slowing down on interstate highway 35 as she headed south towards Oklahoma City. "The whole side of the road was in flames." states Lisa. "The Highway Patrol had just arrived slowing traffic as you headed into the smoke. Sad to say that it seemed like a cigarette butt might have been the cause since the fire was burning right along the shoulder of the interstate. Pretty senseless and thoughtless act. Especially with the wind and all the warnings during this dry spell."

However, the dangers are not exhausted just in the United States. Northern Mexico too has suffered several wild fires already during the 2011 season and has asked for support from the US Government assisting with aircraft and equipment.

Each year, an average of 1.2 million acres of U.S. woodland burn due to wild fires which 4 out of 5 wildfires are caused by people. The U.S. Fire Administration's reported that in 2005 alone, 66,552 wildfires took place and 8,686,753 acres were burned. They encourage to be prepared having a family emergency plan that includes having important documents ready and knowing your planned evacuation route. For more information concerning planning, visit the ready government web site Be Informed.

As the many volunteers work putting these fires out, their tireless efforts too save lives and property is heroic. These thousands of men and women who take risks and helped others every day. Some gave their lives in the line of duty. The volunteers come from all walks of life. Hair stylist to Cowboys, Waitress, to county Judge, they all deserve a special thanks.

As for Fort Davis, an anonymous person climbed atop Delores Mountain Wednesday night, stated Lana. "They cleaned the blacken ash off and white washed the sign (Fort Davis) along it's edge that's seen entering the town. It is a wonderful thing to see that you can't keep the families of Fort Davis down for long! I think everyone spiritually got a boost from it!"

To volunteer, provide donations or contributions, please refer to the following links:

Texas Department of Agriculture: Austin, Texas (512)475-1615 "STAR Fund" www.tscra.org

The Permian Basin Area Foundation also is accepting charitable donations from larger foundations, send to: Jeff Davis County Relief Fund, c/o Permian Basin Area Foundation, 200 N. Loraine, Suite #500, Midland, TX 79701 or on line through Jeff Davis County Relief Fund


Live stock flee from Texas Wild Fires

Historic McKnight Home before Fire

Remains of McKnight House destroyed in Fort Davis Wildfires

Fire of Fort Davis

Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking

Texas Folklore

Signature Boots with a Signature Voice

Giving Her the BOOT

A Merry Christmas CHUCK WAGON

Happy Birthday to a HORSE THIEF KILLER

A Christmas Lighting - As traditions Grows

Beer Bread: A Whole New Meaning for Enjoying Beer

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Miss Rodeo America 2012 Crowns Mackenzie Carr

Friends Eat

So often I find myself fascinated with the stories of those who tamed the west. Although, while the west has long been tame, the culture continues to thrive. History is always in the making whether it is the "Lone Cowgirl" or "The Way of the Chuckwagon."

Interview with Cowboys and Chuckwagon Cooking

SAVE A HORSE - TWO SIDES TO A FENCE

Happy Thanksgiving

Introducing Dale Evans to a New Generation

King Ranch 21th Annual Ranch - Hand Breakfast

Chuck Wagon Cooking School

The All American Chuck Wagon Race

Autumn Harvest - The Pumpkin Capital of the World

NRS High School Rodeo Model Search Finalists

Tortilla

RIDE For The HEART

VENISON POT PIE

The Lone Cowgirl - story by Roger Edison

Shetland Bronc Riding at the Tom Butler Memorial Bronc Riding

Cooper DeWitt wins the Tom Butler Memorial Bronc Riding

Song of Hiawatha - Chuck Wagon Cook Off

Cabela's Six Annual Dutch Oven Cook-Off, Mitchell, South Dakota

TOP CHEF Saddles up "TEXAS STYLE"

Ask and You Shall Receive

Navigating the Cattle Drive

HOT and DRY Cowboy Humor

DUTCH OVEN COOKING HOSTED by Texas Parks and Wildlife

From Slavery to Cattle Rancher, Cowboy of a different Breed

RHINESTONE COWBOYS

"Wearing the Gold"

Tribute to Reagon Walker, Extreme Bulldogging

WILD TURKEY

Wild Fires Across the Range

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