Local celebrity dancers of the greater Gainesville area brought the house down recently at the second annual “Dancing With Our Stars” contest in Lindsay. The event raised more than $200,000 as the sponsored dance teams did their best to take home the grand prize.

The money raised will go to the “Heart of NTMC” Campaign for the purchase of a cardiac capable CT machine for the Gainesville hospital. Rodolfo “Rudy” Martinez and Sherry Sherriden took home the Mirror Ball Trophy.

To read more, pick up a copy of the April issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.

By Jesse Kader

I’m super excited for this month’s article. I’m thrilled to share my first ever Jesses Jewelz exclusive piece with you. This blazer has been in the works and design for close to a year and I finally get to offer it to you. It is also available in two other colors. I hope you love it as much as I do. See them and the other colors at www.jessesjewelz.com

A superior showcase of Western artists and craftsmen

Celebrating its milestone 10th anniversary, the Summer Stampede Western Art & Gear Show presented by Capital Farm Credit promises an unforgettable evening of art, entertainment, and camaraderie on Saturday, June 1, from 6 to 11 p.m. at the National Ranching Heritage Center in Lubbock, TX.

“Summer Stampede has become a favorite way to kick off summer,” said the show’s art curator, Dr. Robert Tidwell, who serves as the Helen DeVitt Jones Endowed Director of Collections, Exhibits and Research at the National Ranching Heritage Center. “This year’s event promises to be no exception, offering guests an enchanting evening filled with exceptional artwork, lively Western swing music, and the chance to mingle with talented artists.” The Summer Stampede Western Art and Gear Show presented by Capital Farm Credit is a premier showcase of renowned Western artists and craftsmen. Highlighting the diversity of Western artistry, the exhibition will feature works by recognized artists and craftsmen including Billy Klapper, Bruce Greene, Emily McCartney, Herman Walker, Garland Weeks, Teal Blake, and many more. Each piece in the show embodies the spirit and heritage of ranching in keeping with the mission of the National Ranching Heritage Center.

Attendees can view and purchase authentic Western pieces—from exquisite paintings, photographs and sculptures to meticulously crafted cowboy gear—as well as meet many of the artists in person.

In addition to the art show, attendees have come to regard Summer Stampede as one of the most looked-forward to events of the year for its fun and friendly atmosphere. Enjoying a steak dinner by Cagle Steaks & BBQ on the patio and dancing to Jake Hooker & the

Outsiders under the West Texas stars has become the perfect kickoff to summer for 10 years running.

As an annual fundraiser for the National Ranching Heritage Center, proceeds from ticket and art sales support the historical preservation and education initiatives of NRHC. Capital Farm Credit continues its outstanding support of the event as the 2024 presenting sponsor.

Limited tickets are now available and advanced purchase is required. Tickets can be purchased online at summerstampede.com or by calling (806) 742-0498. Prices are $100 for Ranching Heritage Association members, $125 for the general public, and $1,500 for a reserved table for 8 under a tent. Ticket sales close on Friday, May 28, or when capacity is reached.

For additional information about the 2024 Summer Stampede Western Art & Gear Show presented by Capital Farm Credit, visit summerstampede.com.

About the National Ranching Heritage Center

Supported by Texas Tech University and the Ranching Heritage Association, the NRHC is a 27-acre museum and historical park that offers educational programs and exhibits about ranching history and contemporary ranching issues. The center is located at 3121 Fourth St. in Lubbock, Texas, and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free, and the historical park is wheelchair- and stroller accessible. For more information, visit ranchingheritage.org or call (806) 742-0498.