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Good News
News of our community of pards and poets. Weddings, babies, foals, championships, awards ... send us yours. Email us.
Congratulations to Ron and Janice Gilbertson on the birth of their grandson, Charlie Mitchell Dunn, born Monday, May 5, 2008. Janice says that "Charlie weighed 8 lbs, 5 ozs and is 20 inches long. Parents Steve and Alicia are doing fine and are thrilled with their baby boy!"
Posted 5/7
Sandi and Jay Snider's granddaughter, Shy Ann, may be following in her Papa's footsteps. Jay comments, "The bull belongs to Jamie Dees of the Rafter D Rodeo Company of Sterling, Oklahoma. Jamie trained the bull himself from a calf and takes him to events for the kids to ride and take pictures on. The kids get a kick out of it but it tends to put Nana's and Papa's into a tailspin. At Shy Ann's age, kids have no fear. Now I know how my Mother felt all those years that I rode bulls, which gives folks a little indication of the mentality that you're dealing with as I write this."
Jay shared photos of generations of Sniders in a Picture the West feature here. A larger version of this photo of Shy Ann has been added to the group.
Posted 5/5
Congratulations to Joe & Teresa Dobrowski who are celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary. (Joe is 102; Teresa is 95.) The couple married April 25, 1933, in the Church of St. Phillip, located in the Polish community of St. Phillip, Wibaux County, Montana.
Joe's mother emigrated from Poland with her father in 1885. Joe's father came to America from Poland around 1890. Teresa's parents were also of Polish ancestry. Both of their families arrived in Wibaux County, Montana, in 1910. Joe and Teresa have lived within the county ever since, moving to the Wibaux County Nursing Home in the summer of 2006.
Joe and Teresa raised a family of six children. Their youngest, Robert, is the husband of Jeri Dobrowski. Rob and Jeri live on the "home place" that Joe purchased in 1928.
The Dobrowski's 74th anniversary in 2007photos courtesy of Jeri Dobrowski
Posted 4/25
Congratulations to Tina and Jim Nelson on the birth of their first grandchild, Clairee Louise Bingham, born Friday, April 11, 2008. Jim reports, "She is the sweetest thing I have ever seen in my humble opinion."
Jim and ClaireeClairee is the first great grandchild for Dick Noble, known to many for for "Dick's Pick" on the popular Clear Out West (C. O. W.) radio program that Jim Nelson co-hosts with his brother, poet and humorist Andy Nelson.
In 2007, the Green River Valley Cattleman’s Association honored Dick Noble and his family as one of a dozen “Century Ranches” still operating in their area. The Green River Valley Land Trust web site tells more about the Flying U Ranch, including:
The Flying U Ranch has been under the stewardship of the Noble family for five generations. Dick Noble's grandfather, James Noble, homesteaded the property and founded the original town of Cora on the ranch in about 1898. The old blacksmith shop still stands, complete with tools and equipment. "We want this place to stay a ranch forever," said Dick Noble's daughter, Tina Nelson.
Read more about the Noble Ranch and see a photo in a Picture the West entry from April 23, 2007 here.
Posted 4/15
There are many serendipitous connections made through cowboy poetry, and Colorado writer and poet Jane Ambrose Morton shared one having to do with her family history: Kay Getting of Bemidgi, Minnesota found Jane's poetry on the web and
ordered her book, Turning to Face the Wind. Reading it, Jane said, Kay "realized she and her relatives are the other half of our family." In
the 1860's, three of Kay's McEathron ancestors married three of Jane's Ambrose ancestors. Jane has kept the Ambrose history, and Kay has the other side of the family's history. In the introduction to her book, Jane tells of having her great-great grandfather Joshua Eaton Ambrose's diary. Kay Getting has McEathron diaries written during the Civil War.
Through poems, stories, and photos, Jane Morton's "Turning to Face the Wind" captures the history and modern story of her family's Colorado ranch. The book has received the Will Rogers Medallion Award, the Arizona Book Publishers' Glyph Award, and was a Willa Literary Award Finalist. Jane has also created films about the ranch for the Western Folklife Center's Deep West Video project. She's at work on a second book, to be published later in 2008.
Read more, including some of Jane's poetry here.Posted 4/2
Congratulations to Chelsea and Brice, grandchildren of Texas poet and writer Linda Kirkpatrick, on their impressive results on this year's state-wide TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) test. Eighth-grader Chelsea received the highest score and Commended recognition. Brice, a third-grader, was also Commended, with a perfect score.
Posted 3/31
Congratulations to JoJo Varner (JoLaine), daughter of Minnesota rancher and poet Diane Tribitt, who was crowned Queen of the National American University in Rapid City, South Dakota, where she is finishing up her junior year of college. JoJo is pursuing a Business Management and Marketing degree. She competes on the NAU Rodeo Team in breakaway roping.
Posted 2/12
Congratulations to Jim Thompson, popular radio and rodeo broadcaster and journalist who will be inducted into the Black Hills Stock Show Hall of Fame on Wednesday, January 30, 2008 at the Stockman's Banquet and Ball in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Each year, the Black Hills Stock Show selects an inductee to their Hall of Fame, one who has been instrumental in the success of the show. The Black Hills Stock Show rodeo has twice been named the best in the PRCA and has been nominated several other times, including 2007.
Jim Thompson has also been selected as the 2007 John Justin Volunteer of the Year for the Kaycee, Wyoming PRCA rodeo, of which he's been a part since its inception in 1987.
Jim has earned many rodeo honors, is an inductee in the South Dakota Sports Hall of Fame and is a member of the Casey Tibbs Hall of Fame.
Jim Thompson is a great friend to cowboy poetry, and his daily Live with Jim Thompson radio program often features cowboy poetry. The show is available on the web, live and in archived on-demand broadcasts. His Creative Broadcast Services (CBSI) also produces the monthly Heritage of the American West show in Spearfish, South Dakota, a show that features top Western music and cowboy poetry entertainment. Find more information at www.livewithjt.com.[photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski; see her gallery of western performers and others here.
Updated 1/28
The members of the Sandoz family of Valentine, Nebraska (Lauren, 6; Jade, 14; Payton, 11, and parents Shari and Kent) are featured in the February, 2008 Family Circle magazine, in the "My Hometown" feature. The article tells about the Valentine area and the Sandoz family's favorite places and events. The article mentions that they attend the annual Nebraska Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Old West Days in Valentine, "Poets, musicians, and storytellers come from all over to talk about the old and new ways of a cowboy's life..." Shari is Yvonne Hollenbeck's daughter.
Posted 1/21
Congratulations to Ruth and Harry Hanson of Gordon, Nebraska (parents of Yvonne Hollenbeck) who celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on Monday, January 21, 2008. The great milestone is scheduled to be announced on Paul Harvey's radio show. Below is an engagement picture, a wedding announcement, and a photo from the Hanson's 68th anniversary.
Read Yvonne's poem about her father, a many-times Champion Old Time Fiddler His music accompanies the poems on her CD, My Home on the Range, which was named the Academy of Western Artists' Best Poetry CD in 2003.
Posted 1/18
Happy Birthday wishes to South Dakota poet Troy McNaught Westby, who celebrated her 92nd birthday on January 5, 2008. We're pleased to have a feature about Troy McNaught Westby and some of her poetry here, material collected and presented by her son, poet and writer Slim McNaught. Slim and his mother are both active participants in the Western Writers Group, which includes members from the Dakotas, Nebraska, and Minnesota and meets regularly.
Posted 1/8
Jane Morton, who often writes about the generations of her family and their connections to their ranching past, wrote about great-grandson Cody's Christmas present in a recent poem featured in Christmas at the BAR-D. We asked if there were pictures of Cody with his present, and were pleased to receive this one. You can read the poem here.
Posted 1/2
Congratulations to Jane Morton and Dick Morton on the birth of their great-granddaughter, Evelyn Crawford, on December, 15, 2007. Evelyn is mentioned in Jane Morton's recent poem, Christmas Memories.
Posted 12/24
In Our Thoughts
Yukon poet Alf Bilton had triple bypass surgery on April 16, 2008. His daughter reports that all went well, and he should be back in touch before long.
On April 25, Alf's daughter reported that he is doing "incredibly well," and recuperating at a friend's farm, where they are calving and he is no doubt "enjoying the scenery."
Updated 4/25
Tim Johnson, son of John and Buckshot Dot (Dee Strickland Johnson) was seriously injured in an accident on August 5, 2002. He's being cared for at the Hacienda de los Angeles in Phoenix.
Tim had successful hand surgery on Monday, February 25, 2008.
UPDATE, March 18, 2008: Tim's sister Becky sent an update on March 16, 2008:
Just a note to catch you up on Tim’s hand surgery. Thanks for all your support.
Tim had his cast put on Wednesday, March 12th. He got to choose the color and he chose blue. Very nice—as casts go. It will be on for only three weeks. Doctor said the healing is going extremely well.
He also has a new leg brace—also blue, so he is quite well matched.
So, with the exception of his hand surgery, Tim has not been in the hospital since December! His health is good. Thanks again for all of your continued prayers.After the surgery, Dee wrote, "Tim’s surgery is over and seems to have gone well. Thanks so much for your support, prayers and e-mails about this. We are so blessed to have so many good people in our lives."
Before Tim's surgery, his sister Becky sent this news:
Hi all,
The good news is that Tim is in good physical health. No ER visits or hospitalizations in January or February. That’s terrific!
You may have already received much of this letter, as Mom sent it to Tim’s closest friends; if so please, excuse me, but I told Mom I’d like to pass it on to everyone on my list because we certainly need all the prayer we can get! Here goes:
1) Tim is having surgery on his right hand on Monday, Feb. 25 to release the tightly gripped fingers.
2) His present wheelchair is five years old and is in need of repair. It causes him pain when he is in it over four hours. He has been evaluated for a motorized wheelchair which he could operate himself; thus, giving him his first independence in 5½ years. This, of course, must go through a doctor, be re-proven by a therapist, and be approved by insurance. It's a complicated and slowww process....
3) Tim has had no therapy for a year and a half. Mom has worked hard to adjust his medicines to help him in accepting such therapy as is available at the facility in which he resides. She is once again trying to secure therapy for him at the wonderful Outpatient facility with therapists he accepts and respects.
4) Dad wants to move back to Payson. So does Mom, but not without Tim. Both care centers there have refused to accept Tim, due to his medical needs. Tim continues to spell “Take me home to Payson.” That sure hurts to hear!
Please continue to keep Tim, Mom and Dad in your prayers, especially on Monday while Tim undergoes surgery. General anesthesia is always a little risky, and especially so for a person with Traumatic Brain Injury.
Thanks and bless you all,
Love,
Beck
Know someone who wants or needs to be receiving these updates? Sign them up here! http://www.buckshotdot.com/index_tim.htmlFollowing is a previous family update, sent January 15, 2008:
It wasn’t an exceptionally eventful year for Timothy Wayne Johnson. The most important things occurred in May and the holidays at the end of the year. With a total of fourteen visits to the Emergency Room, seven of which resulted in admission to St. Joseph’s Hospital, Tim had half his colon removed in May. This was due to one of the many infections to which he is unusually susceptible.
Mom and Dad had hoped to take him to Payson with them in June, but it hasn’t worked out for any of them, as both care centers in Payson have declined to admit Tim, due to his many medical needs. He really needs Skilled Nursing such as the two facilities he has been in these past five and half years. This makes their decision to move back to Payson extremely hard, as you may imagine.
Thanksgiving was memorable because his good buddy Paul Misner rode his motorcycle down from Prescott and paid Tim a good long visit. Unfortunately, Tim wasn’t feeling very well and was in ER the next day, but he was delighted to see Paul just the same.
The next exciting event was the wonderful Christmas Sing which his sister Becky made possible for all of us in Payson. The returns on the RSVPs were astounding. Acceptances far exceeded the capacity of our home there, so we repaired to the Community Center nearby. It was terrific! Hacienda Transportation provided a van and two of their drivers took Tim all the way up there (85 miles one way)! This had to be done on a volunteer basis, as the vans do not normally run on nights and weekends. God bless those two drivers (one of whom provided the next big treat which will be mentioned later). Tim was utterly delighted! Walking out to greet him as he was unloaded from the van were his good friends Rob, Charlotte, and Cristina Strickland. Becky and her husband Jon had flown out from Virginia, and there were many family friends from long years past. Tim smiled the whole time he was there. It was glorious!
On Christmas Eve the same fine driver whose wife had driven Tim to Payson gave up time with his own family to take Tim to the Christmas Eve Service at the little Evangelical Presbyterian Church near our condominium. At this service the wonderful duo John and Mary were singing. Tim has long loved to hear them. It was beautiful. For Mom the most wonderful thing was Tim’s attempt to take communion. When the bread was passed, Tim, with his good left arm, stopped the usher who was about to pass him by. Mom helped him take a piece of bread. He lifted it to his lips and Mom let it touch his tongue, but, as he can’t swallow, then took it away. He took “wine” between left index finger and thumb and was actually going to try to swallow it. Mom stuck a finger in the grape juice and again touched it to his tongue. Was Tim ever indignant! He made his annoyance sound, but did not cause a disturbance. It was just so touching that he sincerely wanted to participate in taking communion. Mom always waits to see what will make her heart “strangely warmed” each year. This, together with the Payson Sing, were the two heartwarming occurrences of this Christmas season.
Our prayer for the New Year is that Tim will make steady progress physically, mentally, and spiritually. We hope that therapy will be restored for him, that he will regain his ability to speak, and that we will all be able to move back to Payson.
The family welcomes visits, cards, or emails. You can write to Tim in care of:
Dee Strickland Johnson
3033 E. Devonshire #2023
Phoenix, AZ 85016
buckshotdot@earthlink.netRead more at Dee's web site here.
Updated 3/18
From Dr. Buck Montgomery at www.wildwesternfestival.com:
Join Us and Help Arizona’s #1 Cowgirl Entertainer, Pistol Packin’ Paula, with her Medical & Recovery Expenses, Saturday April 19th, 2008, from 6pm to 11pm, at a Gala Event Hosted by Gary Martinson, Owner of Bison Homes & Bison Museum, at their beautiful Museum and Event Center, located at: 16641 N. 91st St., Scottsdale, AZ 85260. This Star Studded Fund Raising Evening Event will feature World Class “Best of the West” Entertainers, Live Music, Western Celebrities, 100's of Silent & Live Auction Items, Door Prizes, Catered Food and a Full Cash Bar. 100% Tax Deductible Tickets for this Exclusive Fund Raiser are $75.00 per person or $125.00 per couple (Limited to 500 people) Tickets are available before the Event at the Bison Museum or by calling Tammy Youngs at Dr Buck Productions {480} 703-6702.
PISTOL PACKIN’ PAULA SURVIVES ROLL OVER ACCIDENT!
Paula Saletnik, aka “Pistol Packin’ Paula,” was recently involved in a severe automobile accident, from which she sustained extremely serious bodily injury. During the evening of Thursday, January 10, Paula struck a deer while driving on a county highway near her home in Boerne, Texas. As she swerved to miss the animal, her truck rolled countless times and was thrown from the vehicle through the driver side window. Hours later, she regained consciousness and found herself lying several feet from her up-turned, totaled truck. Realizing she needed to call for help, she discovered her cellular phone was missing from it’s holder. Unable to move, she was encouraged when Pepper, her beloved dog, ran nearly a mile to a nearby farmhouse to get help. It was at this exact time that Paula’s landlord called her. Fortunately, she was able to reach the “ringing”cell phone, that miraculously was lying near her knee, truly a Godsend!... An ambulance arrived on the scene shortly thereafter, and she was transported to a nearby “Flight for Life” location. She was then airlifted by helicopter to the University Hospital in San Antonio, Texas. Paula’s diagnosed injuries included a broken sternum and pelvis (both sides, front & back), cracked ribs and fractures to three vertebrae. A surgical procedure was performed on Tuesday, January 15, with several permanent pins implanted. Her Doctors are hopeful for a full recovery, however, this will take several months or years of therapy, determination and possible further surgeries. Paula’s tough Cowgirl Spirit is intact and she WILL twirl her guns and ride her horse again! (a direct quote from Paula). Paula is very fortunate to be staying with friends for the next several months, who will assist her in her therapy and long road to recovery. One of her Biggest challenges she faces, will be her Ever-Mounting Medical expenses...This is where we can all help!.
Along with the above Fund Raiser, Created by her good friend and fellow entertainer, DR Buck Montgomery (DR Buck Productions, Phoenix, Arizona)...Donations can be made to a Trust Fund, At Any Bank of America branch, set up under the name: “PAULA SALETNIK MEDICAL FUND.”
Additionally, If you’d like to contribute an item, or items for the April 19th, Bison Museum, “Pistol Packin’ Paula” Fund Raiser Silent or Live Auction, please contact Tammy Youngs at: TLYoungs@cox.net or call: {480} 703-6702 {All Contributions are 100% Tax Deductible}
FOR FURTHER FUND RAISER MEDIA INFORMATION & DONATION DETAILS CONTACT
Tammy Youngs at : {480} 703-6702 email: TLYoungs@cox.net ...(Donations & General Fund Raiser Info.)
Dr Buck at: {623} 521-3856 email: DRBuc@cox.net ...(Media Contact & Info.)
Paula Saletnik, “PISTOL PACKIN’ PAULA,” has entertained Arizona audiences for Decades, now it’s time for us to show our support and gratitude by Helping Arizona’s #1 Wild West Cowgirl Entertainer...
Posted 3/3
Betty Henkel sent an update February 29, 2008, about Mark Henkel of the Sons of the Konza Prairie:
First, I'd like to thank all those who have been praying and sending support for our family. It seems in some ways that October 2007 was a long time ago. However, as those who have been touched by trauma know, each day following can run together as you just do what you have to do to get past it.
Now for the update: Jacob, our son, is doing remarkably well. His eyesight amazingly returned to 20/20. I enjoyed the moment when the ophthalmologist said, "I can't explain it! Corneas don't just change shape on their own!" We know it wasn't on it's own—the Designer and Maker of eyes healed Jacob's cornea. Jacob has some scars but we call them "Story Starters." He is a senior in high school this year and is busy with all that entails. His music has become richer; his guitar playing has become stronger; God has blessed us all through Jacob.
Mark, the "dad" of Sons of the Konza Prairie, continues to deal with physical issues. In March, Mark will undergo tests to see if the cancer has spread to other areas of his body. He has a lump on his neck that is being tested, probed, and hopefully taken care of. There is a suspicious mass in his chest that will be biopsied at the end of the month. Mark is worn out easily, but is still singing and playing. Sons of the Konza Prairie have been performing this year, although their schedule is reduced considerably during Jacob's recuperation and Mark's continued issues.
Musicians know that playing and singing is a cure in itself and it does my heart good to see Mark and Jacob practicing and performing. We've written some new music this year and Mark is in the process of writing a song that shares his Christian outlook on life. I think it will be a hit when all is said and done! :-)
We are grateful to our western family for their prayers and support. God is good all the time!
Keepin' It Western,
Becky Henkel for
Mark & Jacob Henkel: Sons of the Konza Prairie
www.sonsofthekonzaprairie.comIn October, 2007, Lindalee Green, Western Music Association (WMA) Board Member and National Secretary, sent information about Mark Henkel of the Sons of the Konza Prairie, and the following excerpts were posted with the family's permission:
Betty Henkel wrote:
... Saturday, October 27, our son Jacob was working with a large amount of black powder and it blew up in his face. He was helicopter transported to the Burn Center at St Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kansas. He suffered 1st and 2nd degree burns to his face, 3rd degree burns to his neck, chest and right arm, and his eyes were also powder burned. His left eye escaped severe trauma but there are abrasions on the cornea of his right eye. His prognosis, by the grace of God, is good. His facial burns should heal—and are healing—with no scarring. His neck, chest, and arm will have some scarring and we are having to watch carefully for infection. His eyes are our greatest concern. His eyesight in his left eye is slowly returning. His right eye also has a cut from the right edge toward his ear. This eye is taking longer to open and the eyesight is still "iffy."
...We would ask that you would share our request for prayer with anyone who feels like they could lift him up with us. We already feel God's mercy in the sparing of his life, as this accident could have been so much worse. We know that God is able to do above all that we ask or imagine, and we covet the prayers of everyone.
Jacob's spirits are good and have been since the first. As they were lifting him into the helicopter, he called to me and said, "Don't be afraid, Mom. Just pray."
I don't know if you had heard, but Mark has been fighting thyroid cancer this fall and just last weekend was in the hospital undergoing radiation therapy as this all unfolded.Lindalee Green and WMA Membership Director Marsha Short write:
The WMA would like to do everything we can to help this family in their time of great need! We would like to ask you to dig deep into your hearts and your pocketbooks and help support this family. They have no insurance, do not qualify for state assistance, and the bills are pouring in. The helicopter flight to the hospital for Jacob alone was $9,700. We all know what medical expenses cost, and we are hoping that somehow we can help these fine folks. Please send your prayers, cards & good wishes via snail mail or email, and should you want to donate money, our Treasurer, Ralph Estes, will set up a private fund for them alone, and 100% of the money will go directly to the Henkel’s. You can send your checks to:
Marsha Short
PO Box 648
Coppell, TX 75019
Or call Marsha at 972-459-6929 if you want to use a credit card.
Please note that we will continue to assist this family as long as need be, and we’ll keep you updated periodically as to their situation.
The Sons of the Konza Prairie, contact information:
The Henkel Family
2424 Clarks Creek Road
Junction City, KS 66441
785-238-7373
KonzaPrairieSons@sonsofthekonzaprairie.comhttp://www.sonsofthekonzaprairie.com/index.html
http://www.myspace.com/sonsofthekonzaprairieUpdated 3/3
Yvonne Hollenbeck sent an update about popular Nebraska cowboy singer, Wally Bazyn, who is recovering from the removal of a malignant brain tumor. Wally is widely loved, a respected performer at gatherings and events such as the Nebraska Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Old West Days, Valentine's Bull Bash, the Heritage of the American West show, the Cheyenne Cowboy Symposium, and Cody's Cowboy Songs and Range Ballads.
Wally, an inductee in America's Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame, retired from a broadcasting career of over 45 years. He was Farm and Ranch Director of Radio Station KVSH in Valentine, Nebraska, and the host of a daily cowboy and country music show on radio station WJAG in Norfolk, Nebraska.
Yvonne sent information on February 11, 2007, with Wally and Dorothy's "...new address for the next 6 weeks...They will be staying at 'The Homestead,' an assisted living residence. Rather than Wally staying by himself, Dorothy will be staying there with him. It is a very nice apartment. Here is their address:
The Homestead, Wally Bazyn, Suite 18, 3614 Koenigstein Ave, Norfolk, NE 68701."[photo courtesy of Yvonne Hollenbeck, from February, 2006 at Valentine's Bull Bash.]
Updated 2/12
Dixie Dixon let us know that Henry Benson, photographer for the Monterey Cowboy Poetry Gathering and many other area events, is suffering from a serious illness.
Henry Benson is a photojournalist, portrait photographer, artist, and graphic designer. He is the creator of Central Coast Magazine and the designer of the web site for the photography collective, Image Makers, View his photos from the 2005 Monterey gathering here at CowboyPoetry.com.
Henry welcomes hearing from friends: Henry Benson, 824 Alice Street, Monterey, CA 93940.
Posted 12/14
Rusty McCall, the 21-year-old son of Dave and Deanna McCall—known to many for his poetry performances at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering and elsewhere—has been diagnosed with neurofibromatosis. He has over a dozen tumors, one of which has caused face paralysis and deafness on his right side. He was operated on by a team of specialists in Albuquerque and will need monitoring for the rest of his life for this recurring condition.
Update December 6, 2007:
From the McCall family:Just a short note to everybody about Rusty: He will begin radiation somewhere around Christmas. It will be in Albuquerque at UNM Cancer Center, and be for 5 to 6 weeks, 5 days a week. This bout of radiation is for the cervical spine area and the tumors growing there. We thank you for your continued prayers. God Bless you all!
Rusty plans to be at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko at the end of January.Update September 10, 2007:
Rusty met with doctors and chose the current treatment plan: to wait for two months to evaluate how fast the tumors are growing before considering surgery, radiation, or other options. Deanna McCall writes, "Rusty is doing remarkably well considering the circumstances...We hope you will continue with prayers."
Update August 27, 2007:
Rusty McCall gave a number of outstanding performances at the recent 20th Annual Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering. He will learn more about the treatment plan for his condition in early September.
Deanna McCall writes:"We would like to thank everyone for all their love and support and generosity. We know some have helped beyond their means, and we are grateful. Now we are making monthly payments and are sure things will work out, and do not feel the need of additional financial assistance. We really appreciate everything everyone has done, and we couldn't have made it this far without the help of so many. We ask everyone to continue their prayers."
photo by Paulette Tcherkassky
Bimbo Cheney and Deanna, Dave, and Rusty McCall at Prescott, 2007
Below are earlier updates:
June 6:
Rusty's 15-plus hour operation took place May 30, 2007. Rusty is home now, and Deanna McCall shared an update: "Rusty is doing better since being released. The doctors felt he would have less risk of infection and would recover better at home. He had lost too much weight. He is eating now and has better spirits. We are doing therapy with him for his face, mouth and right leg and hand. He is learning to use his walker and is so happy to be able to sit outside on the porch. The expected recovery is two months. In about three months, he will undergo surgery again if the next tumor they are worried about is operable...We thank everyone for all the e-mails, cards, prayers and support. It has made a big difference to the family, and really helped Rusty's morale."June 20:
Deanna McCall reports that Rusty is gaining weight and making slow but steady progress in recovering from his recent surgery. Next month they should learn more about future surgery and treatments. Rusty has his sights set on being at the 20th Annual Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Prescott in late August.The family is grateful for all of the help and encouragement they've received. Deanna says, "People have been so wonderful, we just can't believe how great everyone is. Anyone who doesn't believe in cowboy angels should try being in our boots, they would become believers!" Deanna was inspired to write:Thanks to all the folks who bent a kneeAnd prayed for God’s sweet grace.To those who sent messages of loveFlying through cyber-space.To them that picked up the phone and calledTo see what they could do.And all the folks who sent cards and checksTo help a guy get through.To all the friends who cried when we criedAnd lent us strength and hope.To them that took the reins in their handWhen we just couldn’t cope.Our thanks to all you cowboy angels—We hope you will still prayCause it is a rough, rocky trail aheadAnd he’ll need help all the way.God Bless All Of You!July 16:
Deanna McCall reports that Rusty continues to recuperate from his recent major surgery. He has additional surgery and treatment ahead, and a team of doctors, including oncologists, neurosurgeons, physicists, radiologists, continue to deliberate on future surgeries and radiation for existing
tumors.
The McCall family is grateful for all of the wonderful support of all kinds that they've received from so many people. They particularly thank Sally Bates for her efforts, and, most recently, they want to thank organizers Michael and Jo Lynne Kirkwood and all the many other generous people who helped and contributed to a benefit for Rusty and the McCall family at Utah's June Heritage Days / Sevier Valley Cowboy Gathering in Elsinore and Richfield.Deanna McCall shared an update on Rusty's condition. Rusty was at the Gamma Knife Center in Albuquerque on July 30. There, he was placed in a frame bolted through the outer skull, and an MRI was done, so that targeted radiation could be done. The doctors didn't know which tumors could be treated until the MRI was read and calculations were done.
The doctors were able to treat only the remnant of the tumor that was surgically removed a couple of months ago; there were too many others to be treated with the gamma knife technology. And, a slightly lower MRI showed two more tumors in the spine. The next step is a full-spine MRI to get a more comprehensive assessment. At the present time, the option being discussed is another form of radiation, which will entail five days a week in Albuquerque, for at least six weeks.
Deanna McCall adds, "Thanks, everyone for everything! Please just keep the prayers going..."Rusty now has insurance for much of his future medical care. You can send greetings to Rusty at: PO Box 376, Timberon, New Mexico, 88350 or email: dmcattle@yahoo.com. As noted above, Deanna McCall writes:
"We would like to thank everyone for all their love and support and generosity. We know some have helped beyond their means, and we are grateful. Now we are making monthly payments and are sure things will work out, and do not feel the need of additional financial assistance. We really appreciate everything everyone has done, and we couldn't have made it this far without the help of so many. We ask everyone to continue their prayers."
Updated 12/6
Four-legged Friends
We mourn the loss, with Georgie Sicking, of her long-time faithful companion, Monte, on February 25, 2008. Monte is featured in the award-winning film about Georgie, Ridin' & Rhymin'.
Georgie's dear friend Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns shared the sad news and Andy Nelson, who produced Georgie's recent CD, To Be a Top Hand, shared photos taken in 2007.
You can write to Georgie at: Georgie Sicking, PO Box 11, Kaycee, Wyoming 82639.
[photos courtesy of Andy Nelson]
Posted 2/25
Ted the Cow Dog, immortalized in song by Stephanie Davis ("Goodnight Little Cowpup"), suffered a "shattered hock"—five fractures in his leg—and is recuperating. The prognosis is good, though for eight weeks Ted is allowed out only for the most essential reasons. Rick Philipp, Stephanie's manager, built Ted a conveyance so that he can take those essential trips to his favorite pasture.
Update: Ted, all healed as looking as handsome as ever, appeared at the Western Folklife Center's 2008 National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, in Stephanie's show, "Tales from Trail's End."
Updated 2/4
Below:
See previous postings on our page of Respects
Photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
Howard Staub, 1940-2008
Howard Staub, host of the popular radio show, The Real West from the Old West, and a friend to so many in the Western music and cowboy poetry world, died May 7, 2008. Howard loved people. He had boundless enthusiasm for musicians and poets and enjoyed going to gatherings and events.
Howard Staub was diagnosed with a brain tumor in January. He and his devoted wife, Totsie Slover, put every effort in the fight against the cancer. Totsie had kept a blog to keep Howard's many friends informed.
This is the obituary from Totsie Slover's blog:
Howard G. Staub lost a short, hard-fought battle with brain cancer on May 7, 2008.
Staub was born December 18, 1940 to Everette and Claudina Staub in Harlan, Iowa. He spent his growing up years in Missouri, Gregory South Dakota and moved to O’Neill, Nebraska to start the 7th Grade and to graduate from O’Neill High School. It was there that he made a host of lifelong friends. Upon graduation Howard enlisted into the US Air Force to make more long time friends over the 20 years of service to his country. During those 20 years he was stationed at Shepherd Air Force base, George AFB, Okinawa and Thailand among other places. He retired as a Master Sergeant from the Air Force in June of 1979. After working for Northrop in California he moved to Deming, New Mexico in 1985.
While in Deming Howard was very active in the community. He started life here working as a Mac Tool salesman in Deming, Silver City and Lordsburg. Later he worked as a sales rep for Desert Winds Magazine and it was during that time that he met and married his wife Totsie Slover. He spent 6 years as Chairman of the Luna County Republican Party, served on the Tourist Development Commission for 3 years as an appointed member from Luna County. He was contracted by the Deming Chamber of Commerce Board of Director to run the Great American Duck Races form 1993-95. He also sponsored several antique shows in Deming
Staub is well remembered as the promoter and organizer of the Old West Gun Show in Deming for 11 years. Shooting was a passion with him and he helped many people with reloading information, location of gun shows around the state and just how to get started with shooting sports. His latest passion was Black Powder Cartridge Rifle shooting. In this capacity he was active in the Picacho Gun Club in Las Cruces and was in charge of the BPCR monthly shoots.
In 2007 Howard talked to Candie Sweetser, station manager of KOTS Radio and convinced her to let him do a 2 hour radio show, “The Real West from the Old West” where he played Cowboy Music and Cowboy Poetry. It was his goal in life to keep Cowboy Music and Poetry alive and he did a really good job of it for about 16 months. During that time he and his wife attended “Gatherings” or events in Lordsburg, New Mexico; Alpine, Texas; Ruidoso, New Mexico; Willcox, Arizona, and the Western Music Association Festival in Albuquerque. Staub was elected to the Western Music Association. Board of Directors with his term starting Jan. 1, 2008. This new venture in life gained him another large group of friends.
Howard is survived by his wife Totsie Slover of Deming; stepson Fred Seybert, IV, his wife Rhonda and daughter Haley of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; stepdaughter April Morales, husband Ernie, children Josh and Tessi of El Paso, Texas; mother-in-law Ethel Slover, Deming; aunt Eldora Peterson; as well as several nieces and nephews and numerous cousins.
Staub was preceded in death by his father Everette Staub, mother Claudina Staub, brother Joey, and sister Loretta.
Visitation and prayer service will be Sunday, May 11, 2008 at the Living Word Church on Gold St. in Deming from 4:30 til 6:00 PM and Funeral and burial will be at the Ft. Bayard National Cemetery at 10:00 AM Monday, May, 12, 2008 with a Masonic Service and full Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Howard's name to Mesilla Valley Hospice/La Posada, 299 E. Montana, Las Cruces NM 88005. Their wonderful care of Howard and his family was very much appreciated.
You can write to Totsie Slover at totsie@c21drc.com and Drawer 2249, Deming, NM 88031-2249.
She chose this poem for Howard Staub's funeral program:
Men in the Rough
Men in the rough—on the trails all new-broken—
Those are the friends we remember with tears;
Few are the words that such comrades have spoken—
Deeds are their tributes that last through the years.
Men in the rough—sons of prairie and mountain—
Children of nature, warm-hearted, clear eyed;
Friendship with them is a never-sealed fountain;
Strangers are they to the altars of pride.
Men in the rough—curt of speech to their fellows—
Ready in everything, save to deceive;
Theirs are the friendships that time only mellows,
And death cannot sever the bonds that they weave.
Arthur Chapman, from Out Where the West Begins, 1917
[Thanks to Joe Baker, Howard's close friend, for the first information, which is now included in the obituary.]
Updated 5/9
Raymond Austby 1921-2008
Jeri Dobrowski sent the news of the death of Raymond Austby, father-in-law of poet Jess Howard (and father of his wife, Judy Howard), who died Friday, April 11, 2008, in Billings, Montana.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, April 15, 2008 in the Break Forth Bible Church in Glendive, Montana with Pastor Larry Phalen officiating. Interment will follow in the Dawson Memorial Cemetery in Glendive.
From an obituary: Ray was born June 10, 1921 in Glendive the son of Ed and Esther (Peterson) Austby. He was raised and educated in Glendive, graduating from Dawson County High School with the class of 1939. Ray married Fern Casey on December 4, 1943 in Glendive. They ranched near Glendive on Belle Prairie and raised their family there. Later they moved South of Glendive and then they moved to the Powder River where they ranched for seven years and then to Marmarth, North Dakota. Ray and Fern then moved to Wibaux in 2001 and continued to stay active ranching until the time of his death.
Ray was involved in the Makoshika Riders in his younger years and the Little Missouri Saddle Club in Marmarth. He enjoyed hunting, carpentry, cards and dancing. Ray particularly enjoyed spending time with his children and their families.
Remembrances and condolences my be shared with the family at: www.silvernale-silhafuneralhome.com
Posted 4/15
Henry
Benson
(1946-2008)
photo by Rita Costa-Hollmann
Dixie Dixon sent the sad news of the death of award-winning photographer Henry Benson on March 4, 2008. Henry was familiar to many for his striking photographs of the performers at California's Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival and also for his photos of the Monterey Jazz Festival and other area events.
There is an obituary in the Monterey Herald. A tribute here comments, "Henry Benson was recognized around the world for his emphatic photos of the Central Coast of California lifestyle. Whether capturing the many moods of such famed artists as Clint Eastwood, Dave Brubeck, Joshua Redman, Roy Hargrove, Etta James or the internationally renowned scenery of Big Sur, Monterey, and Carmel, Benson's photos reflected the beauty, peace and harmony of the region."
See Henry Benson's photos from the 2005 Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival in our report here.
Henry Benson produced Central Coast Magazine.
A memorial service for Henry Benson was held on March 16, 2008 at Weston Beach, Monterey County and a moving video of the service, created by Joyce Snyder Hopkins, is available here on YouTube.
Henry Benson's long-time partner, Raisa Betsi, shared the following obituary and photos:
Henry McKinley Benson III, born on October 25, 1946, passed away on March 4th, 2008. He was a renaissance man with an artistic ability that spanned jewelry, water color painting and photography.Henry Benson was an active member of the Image Makers organization. Henry was well known for his outstanding images of Jazz and Blues artists.
For more than 10 years, Henry Benson worked as a volunteer photographer for many events on Monterey peninsula: Monterey Blues and
Jazz Festivals, Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Car Shows, Santa Cruz Blues Festival, Big Sur Marathon and many more.In 2006-2007 he worked as freelance photographer for 65° Magazine (of Monterey Peninsula).
Henry is survived by his son, Stacy Benson, his daughter-in-law, Cheri Gyuro-Benson, two lovely grandchildren: Hayley and James, and by his long-time partner Raisa Betsi. In Raisa's words, "Henry was a father, loving grandfather, an honest partner, an inspiring colleague, with an unique creative vision."
His friendly discussions, jovial personality and remarkable artistic abilities will be greatly missed by many.
photo by Rita Costa-Hollmann
photo by Henry BensonHenry named this Rock "Martian Rock" (at Point Lobos Park/Reserve. All this landscape looks like an image from space... was taken by Henry Benson in 2005 with an unique Collectors' film camera GLOBUSCOP... This kind of camera was used mostly for movie makers/photographers. They were made in limited number of 700.
See a special feature with photos by Henry Benson (1946-2008) from the 2006 Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival and Western Art and Gear Show.
[with thanks to Raisa Betsi, Dixie Dixon, and Andrea Stuart]
Updated 4/29
Dave Weinmaster (1916-2008)
Our condolences to Nancy and Ken Cook, on the death of Nancy's father, Dave Weinmaster, on Tuesday, February 26, 2008, in Martin, South Dakota. South Dakota Governor Mike Rounds declared March 3, 2006 "Dave Weinmaster Day" in the state of South Dakota, honoring his 90th birthday. The family shared the following information about Dave Weinmaster's life:
Dave Weinmaster, 91, of Martin, South Dakota, passed away on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at the Bennett County Hospital, Martin, South Dakota.
Dave was born on March 3, 1916 to Henry and Elizabeth Weinmaster in Gering, Nebraska, one of five children. Dave grew up in Gering and later moved to Batesland, South Dakota, where his two younger sisters lived.
In 1942, Dave joined the U.S. Army as a member of the Engineer Division that helped build the Leido road in India and was honorably discharged on June 24, 1944.
Dave married Jean Liggett on June 5, 1943 and to the union four children were born. They farmed near Martin, South Dakota for nearly 50 years and retired in 2000 when he and Jean moved into Martin.
Dave was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge and enjoyed water skiing, bowling, and golfing as leisure activities.
Dave is survived by his wife Jean, two daughters Roslyn (Kenneth) Bolzer, Nancy (Ken) Cook, both of Martin, two sons David (Sandi) of Rapid City, Mark (Bev) of LaSalle, CO, one sister, Elsie Rothe, Kearney, NE, ten grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and one brother.
Services will be held at 10:00 am MST Friday, February 29, 2008 at the American Legion Auditorium. Burial will be at the Gordon Cemetery.
You can write to the Cook family at: 23154 Teal Lane, Martin, SD 57551-6601.
Posted 2/29
Paul Hendel, February 12, 2008
Western Music Association Board member
Lindalee Green delivered the sad news of the death of California musician
Paul Hendel (www.paulhendel.com)
on February 12, 2008.
Paul Hendel was a musician, singer, and songwriter who appeared
at many cowboy music and poetry festivals. He was a member of
The California Ole Time
Fiddlers and active in the Southern California Branch of the
Western Music. His website bio describes some of his other
accomplishments, including:
In addition to performing at live venues, Paul has performed on Murder She Wrote, been a regular performer on the regional television show, Country Review, appeared in the video Ladies Night Out, and has radio commercials to his credit. His song writing ability has been rewarded by many of his compositions being played in movies and television programs such as The Howard Cosell Story, and on ESPN events. One of country-recording star John Schneider’s popular performance songs Lincoln County Queen was written by Paul, and was on John’s first country album on CBS records. Credited with co-writing the opening theme song in the movie The Painted Forest starring William Sanderson (Deadwood Series) ...Paul can also be heard singing two of the songs in this movie.
Services were held on Friday, February 15, a memorial gathering took place Sunday, February 24, 2008, and a celebration of Paul Hendel's life took place March 1, 2008.
Lori Faith Merritt shared this photo of her friend Paul, created during a private photography session with Paul while he was at the October, 2007 Tombstone Gathering:
photo by Lori Faith Merritt:
www.photographybyfaith.com
You can write to Madelon Hendel at 5014 Island View St., Oxnard, CA 93035.
[photo at top courtesy of Lindalee Green]
Updated 3/5
Robbie Benoit, August 24, 2007
Yukon poet Alf Bilton sent the sad news of the
death of poet Robbie Benoit August 24, 2007. A
Wikipedia article
tells about Robbie Benoit,
Alf introduced us to Robbie Benoit and his CD of "Yukon poetry," Tall Yukon Tales., which is reviewed in the New in 2006 feature. We wrote, "Some of the poems set you to thinking about what would happen if Robert Service met Baxter Black, but it's not easy (or fair) to compare Benoit to others: his poetry has a great quirky originality, and it offers an intriguing look at life way up north. You can hear tracks and read more at CD Baby ..."
YouTube has a video of a benefit for Robbie Benoit, which includes his recitation of some of his work.
Posted 2/19
Frankie McWhorter 1931-2008
Legendary fiddler Frankie McWhorter died Saturday, February. 2, 2008 in Higgins, Texas.
His 1997 autobiography, Cowboy Fiddler in Bob Wills' Band ( as told to John R. Erickson) includes the stories of his ranching and of his music career. From the book's description:
Frankie McWhorter grew up in Bob Wills Country—the Texas Panhandle—and bought his first fiddle with his cowboy wages in 1950. "I told Daddy I’d bought me a fiddle. He said, ‘The heck you did. I thought we either needed to grease that windmill or there was a hog hung under the gate.’" McWhorter later played with Clyde Chesser and the Texas Village Boys and the Miller Brothers Band before being asked to join Bob Wills and become the 463rd Texas Playboy—a band that had a tremendous impact on the country-western music field. McWhorter tells stories of touring with these bands and of his hours spent listening to Wills tell his stories.
Frankie McWhorter wrote two other books, Horse Fixin': Forty Years of Working with Problem Horses, as told to John R. Erickson, and Play It Lazy: The Bob Wills Fiddle Legacy, with Lanny Fiel.
Frankie McWhorter worked as a foreman for the Cooper Ranch in Lipscomb from 1984 until retiring in 2002. He earned many honors for his music and was inducted in Western Swing Music Society of Oklahoma Hall of Fame, the Western Swing Society, and the Nebraska Swing Hall of Fame. He received the Western Music and all around Cowboy Culture Award, the Will Rogers Range Riders Award. and many other awards.
.
Frankie McWhorter was the father of the late, beloved Larry McWhorter.The family suggests memorials be to a favorite charity.
There is a guest book at www.hughsfuneralhome.com.Read the Amarillo Globe-News obituary here.
Frankie McWhorter's friend R. J. Vandygriff shared his comments on the services, held Tuesday, February 5, 2008:
Over four hundred folks ignored the freezing 24 degrees in the Texas panhandle to pay their respects and say goodbye to Mr. Frankie McWhorter. The service was held in the High School Auditorium in Higgins, Texas. I must say I think Frankie is more than pleased the way the service was handled.
Rev. David Jenkins, who had grown up with Larry McWhorter and a former fiddle student of Frankie's, conducted the service. The stories were wonderful. Everyone in the audience had their own Frankie story but I heard a few new ones today.
I didn't know until today that John Erickson's Frankie the Fox character in the HankThe Cowdog series is based on Frankie McWhorter nor did I know that Frankie had been featured not once but twice on CBS Evening News. If you Google Frankie McWhorter you will find over 10,000 references. Not bad for an old cowboy fiddler.
In the audience were several former students but most were cowboys and friends who had rode the pastures with Frankie and certainly danced a many a step to his music.
I couldn't help but notice the old timers as they entered the auditorium, hat in hand and that common cowboy gimp walk, their faces lined with character from years of cowboying, their heads slightly bowed in reverent respect for their friend and comrade. They are a hardy breed and it is a honor to know them.
Not long ago, Frankie and I played another old cowboy's funeral and we were talking about cowboying. He said, "Son, cowboy is the most overused word in the world. A feller told me one time, when you can drive two yearlings through a herd and come out the other side with the same two and another one on the end of your rope then you can call yourself a cowboy." I reckon I've still got a ways to go. RJ Vandygriff
R. J. Vandygriff's popular CD, The Cowboy Ain't Dead Yet, includes a song about Frankie McWhorter:
Mister Frankie McWhorter
Out near the Texas Oklahoma border
There’s a cowboy fiddle man by the name of Frankie McWhorter
Now he’s a cowboy from his hat down to his boots
He rides good horses and swings a wide loop
He’s a master and artist with fiddle and bow
I love that Maiden’s Prayer, Faded Love and sweet San Antoin’ Rose
Why people comes from miles and miles around
When they hear that Frankie and the boys are comin’ to town
So, if you’re ever out near that Texas Oklahoma border
And get a hankern’ for some good cowboy fiddle music
Drop in on my friend
Mister Frankie McWhorter© R. J. Vandygriff, All rights reserved
Updated 2/6
Fred Ortiz 1943-2008
Lubbock poet, writer, and youth advocate Fred Ortiz died Sunday, February 3, 2008. An article here on the Lubbock Online site announces the sad news.
His friend Alan Read had sent news about Fred Ortiz' serious illness. A recent article on the Lubbock Online site tells about Fred Ortiz' advocacy for children and senior citizens in Texas. He founded "Up and Coming Scholars," which gives first-generation college students scholarships and guidance. He was the recipient of the Purpose Prize, which you can read about here, where there is more about his life and good works.
Alan Read writes, "Cowboy Fred is so very special to Lubbock and to the children he has helped in his Up and Coming Scholars Program. Please offer prayers for his wonderful wife Kathy. Unfortunately, like so many in the non-profit field, he was without health or life insurance. The community is working on helping as much as we can."
Alan Read shared the following:
Please take a look at the information from Christy Martinez-Garcia regarding a fund raising event for Kathy Ortiz. As many of you know, Cowboy Fred did not have medical or life insurance. The kids from Up and Coming Scholars are putting this event together with the help of Christy and a few others...
This should be a wonderful event and give us all a chance to help the Up and Coming Scholars assist Kathy during this time of need.
If you are unable to attend, consider purchasing a ticket anyway.UP & COMING SCHOLARS TO HOLD FUNDRAISER
Proceeds to assist with “Cowboy Fred” expensesThe Up & Coming Scholars, a program that offers first generation college students scholarships and guidance, will hold a student led fundraiser on February 12th in honor of the late Cowboy Fred Ortiz. Ortiz lost his battle to cancer, January 27, 2008. The proceeds will be used to cover outstanding medical and personal debts incurred by his family.
“This is our way to thank Kathy, Fred’s wife, for her continued support of Cowboy Fred, who advocated for us— the youth,” agreed the Up & Coming Scholars, which includes Jennifer Sanchez, Manuel Ordaz, Amaris Garcia, Marisa Ybarra, Rebecca Rios, Robert Higgins, Joseph Gaytan, Maria Palacios, and Jessica Kaskie.
