Buffalo Commons Festival Kicks Off with Poetic History and Musical Welcome

McCOOK, Neb. - The 28th annual Buffalo Commons Storytelling and Music Festival officially began Thursday evening, offering attendees a blend of historical context, heartfelt welcomes, and engaging performances. The kickoff event at McCook's ArtBank set a warm and inviting tone for the weekend's festivities.

Mary Dueland, the festival director, welcomed guests and introduced Clark Bates as the evening's Master of Ceremonies. Bates, a retired pastor and dedicated volunteer, offered a unique and poetic take on the festival's origins. He delved into the history of Buffalo Commons, referencing the 1980s prediction by Rutgers University professors Frank and Deborah Popper that the Great Plains' population would decline, returning the land to its pre-settlement state. This controversial idea sparked the very creation of the festival.

Bates captured the spirit of defiance and celebration that birthed the event through his poem, "Ode to the Poppers." He recounted the local reaction to the professors' predictions, stating, "The reaction was immediate. Our feelings, they were pretty strong. Some shouted their disagreements. Others said, Hang them high. Calmer minds thought this festival was a more apt reply." This poignant verse perfectly encapsulates the community's resolve to celebrate their home.

The evening also featured musical contributions, including a performance by Ginger ten Bensel, a committee member with roots in Furnas County, Nebraska. Ten Bensel, whose talents once led her to Nashville as a singer-songwriter and into the television industry, has returned to her Nebraska roots. She shared an original song, "These are the stories of the Buffalo Commons," which beautifully painted a picture of the region's rich narratives. The lyrics, "These are the stories of the Buffalo Commons. These are the tales of the Golden plains," resonated with the audience, reinforcing the festival's core mission to preserve and share the unique stories of the high plains.

Tonight, the Buffalo Commons Storytelling and Music Festival continues its lively program with featured performances by acclaimed storyteller Don White and the dynamic musical group Zoe Lewis and the Souvenirs. Don White, known for his ability to blend heartfelt singer-songwriter aesthetics with side-splitting humor, promises an evening of poignant and hilarious stories. Zoe Lewis and the Souvenirs, with Zoe on multiple instruments joined by Roxanne Layton and Kate Wolf, will deliver their unique blend of vintage jazz and world beat grooves, described as an "electrifying performance."

Throughout the weekend, festival-goers will have multiple opportunities to experience these artists. On Saturday, Don White will share "Humor from the Heart" at the Museum of the High Plains, and later, Zoe Lewis and the Souvenirs will present "Musical Storytelling" at the same venue. Both artists will then be featured in the Saturday night "Dinner Cabaret" at Embers Bakery. Don White will also be part of the "Kids Fest" at the McCook City Library on Saturday afternoon. These performances highlight the diverse talents and engaging styles of both Don White and Zoe Lewis and the Souvenirs, ensuring a weekend filled with laughter, compelling narratives, and captivating music.

The kickoff celebration provided a meaningful introduction to the Buffalo Commons Storytelling and Music Festival, promising a weekend filled with captivating stories, diverse music, and a strong sense of community.

The festival continues throughout the weekend with a diverse schedule of events:

Tonight (Friday, June 13, 2025):

* 7:30 p.m. - Historic Fox Theatre (412 Norris Avenue): "Everyone Has a Story"

An evening of stories, music, and fun, emceed by Chuck Peek. Featuring Storyteller and Musician, Don White, and Musical Artists, Zoe Lewis and the Souvenirs. Tickets: Adults - $20, Children 18 and under - $5 (available at MNB, Embers Bakery, or at the door).

Saturday, June 14, 2025:

* Museum of the High Plains - Free Events (413 Norris Avenue):

* 8:45 a.m. - Meet and Greet with Rolls & Coffee

* 9:00 a.m. - A Legacy on Canvas, Todd Williams: Artist Todd Williams shares his ambitious art exhibit featuring pieces representing each of Nebraska's 93 counties.

* 10:20 a.m. - Humor from the Heart, Storyteller and Musician, Don White

* 11:15 a.m. - Musical Storytelling, Musical Artists, Zoe Lewis and the Souvenirs

* 12:30 p.m. - Open Mic, Stories, Poetry and Music: Join emcee Chuck Peek to share your own story, poem, or song.

* George Norris Historical Site - Free Event (706 Norris Avenue):

* 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Open House - Home Tours and Stories about the Senator

* McCook City Library - Free Event (802 Norris Avenue):

* 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Kids Fest: Stories, activities, crafts, and a performance by storyteller and musician, Don White.

* ArtBank McCook - Free Event (108 West D Street):

* 1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. - Spontaneous Dance and Movement of the Brush, Todd Williams Art Exhibit: An exhibition focusing on the soul and connection Todd Williams brings to his art.

* Norris Home - Free Event (706 Norris Avenue):

* 3:00 p.m. - Garden Party: Enjoy an afternoon of Norris stories hosted by Clark Bates as Senator Norris, with refreshments provided.

* Embers Bakery (312 Norris Avenue):

* 6:30 p.m. - The Shortest Path Between Two People – Dinner Cabaret: Dinner followed by Storyteller/Musician, Don White and Musical Feature, Zoe Lewis and the Souvenirs. Reservations required, tickets are $45 (includes dinner and show). Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 15, 2025:

* 2:00 p.m. - Museum of the High Plains - Free Event!: Heroism on the Plains

* Humanities Speakers Dan Holtz and Gary Zalud will share stories and songs of courage and determination from improbable people and places.

A full schedule, registration links, and ticket information can be found online at buffalocommons.org.