July 19, 2024 3:05 a.m. 

In the KQEN Cultural Spotlight:

Riverbend Live! has its annual evening of cowboy poetry and western music on Friday night at Winston’s Riverbend Park.

Tom Swearingen is an Oregon horseman whose original cowboy poetry is often inspired by his own experiences and observations from the saddle. Swearingen was named the Male Poet of the Year by the Western Music Association in 2019 and 2022. His book, “Reflection” was the 2020 Cowboy Poetry Book of Year.

Joni Harms has earned multiple honors from the Western Music Association and the Academy of Western Artists. She has performed on some of the most famous stages, including the Grand Old Opry and Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Attendees can bring their own dinner, including wine or beer, or purchase their meal from the vendors. Beer will be on sale from Lookingglass Brewery. Chairs or blankets can be put out early. The venue is tobacco free, and dogs are not permitted.

The evening begins at 7:00 p.m. Take Interstate Five to exit 119 and follow the signs to Winston.

For more information on Riverbend Live! go to www.riverbendlive.org