Frank J. Buchman

Cowboy • Horseman • Writer

College life even busier for rodeo champion

Taking 17 hours of college classes and competing at a rodeo every weekend keeps a cowboy busy. Consequently finding a spare moment for Jarek Van Petten to visit isn’t easy, but the young rodeo champion’s humility is most obvious. Almost unwilling to talk about his successes, Van Petten is dedicated to meeting challenges of his […]

Ag Heritage attractions draw large crowd from near and far

“Despite chilly weather, it was a delightful time for country folks, and urbanites, too, from all around.” That has to be the best synopsis of the recent 2013 Spring Crank Up Tractor Show, and a number of related activities, at Ag Heritage Park in Alta Vista, according to the family of Everett Zimmerman.

Poor new ways still appreciated

“Uncle Sam’s horse evidently broke his leg, and they couldn’t find a replacement.” They should have called us; we have lots of horses they could have borrowed. At least, delivery would have been speedier than it was. Most importantly, the mail did arrive, almost a month after being sent.

Third generation bullfighter proven best in business of protecting cowboys

“As far back as I can remember, rodeo bulls have been a part of my life.” These days, bucking bulls continue horning in on Wacey Munsell, because that’s his business: taking horn hooks from mean rodeo bulls, so fallen bull riders don’t get injured. The Ulysses cowboy is a rodeo bullfighter, times again proven the […]

Blessing despite continuous mistakes

“Three cranks and the ‘new car’ started.” That concerned us a bit, as every other time “New Tannie” was running instantly on the first key turn.  There was a “jerk” when we backed out of the garage, but we just shrugged and pressed harder on the throttle.