“Sharing poems and songs about those aspects of our agrarian lives that were personal and deeply felt did a lot to humanize us,” writes Gail Steiger as he reflects on what cowboy poetry means and the connections it opens up.

This month, the cowboy poets discuss their pre-show rituals that help them reign in uncertainty and corral confidence as they answer the reader-submitted question, “Do you have any habits or superstitions that are part of your pre-performance routine?”

"For my humanity, I turn to cowboy poetry," writes poet Jonathan Odermann in this ode to listening, healing, and the connecting power of poems shared.

“The Western Folklife Center will be forever in Daniel’s debt… that’s why we’re thrilled to tell you he won’t be straying too far.”

Executive Director Kristin Windbigler’s writes this guest column to provide critical context to the Elko Daily Free Press’ article about our financial challenges, and what’s next for the Western Folklife Center.