Cowboy poets today at Dangberg

A free evening of cowboy poetry will be performed by Tony Argento and Ken Gardner 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park.

Argento is known for his animated style of presentation that shows his love of cowboy poetry. He is the winner of the 2011 Van Horn, Texas, “Crossroads Cowboy Gatherin’” and the “Kamikaze Cow” poetry, song and story contest.

“Once you get a transfusion of cowboy poetry in your blood, you’ll be hooked for life,” Argento said. “That’s what happened to me. Its unique form shows that the cowboy and the American West is alive with stories of humor and patriotism. It’s a great source of entertainment for the entire family.”

Gardner’s appearances include Susanville’s Diamond Mountain Casino, and the Blue Goose Fruit Stand in Loomis, Calif. He’s also appeared at Elko’s National Poetry Gathering, where he opened for Baxter Black in 2006, and was a reunion artist at the Gathering’s silver anniversary in 2009; and for each of the last five years, Genoa’s Cowboy Festival.

Gardner has also taught poetry classes, written western poems for eighteen years, and has published three books. He served for thirteen years as master of ceremonies at Romeros’ Barns and Terrace in Bridgeport, Calif.

The free, hour-long, outdoor presentation begins at 6 p.m. Seating will be available, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs for greater comfort. Soft drinks and water will be available for purchase, or visitors can bring a picnic and their favorite beverage. Dogs are not permitted.

The park is located at 1450 Highway 88, about ¾ mile south of the Carson Valley Swim Center. The park’s full event schedule is at dangberghomeranch.org.

The final teller in this year’s storytelling series at the park will be Joel ben Izzy, with “Tales Too Tall to Tell” on Aug. 27 at 6 p.m.