Alva Review-Courier -

The annual Old Cowhand Reunion took place last Saturday under blue skies and humid temperatures. The ceremony began with the presentation of the Oklahoma and American flags, the pledge and a rousing rendition of "God Bless America" sung by Jennifer Finley.

Vanessa Gerloff, Old Cowhand Committee president, welcomed and thanked everyone in attendance. She spoke about the history of the Old Cowhand Reunion. The Freedom Rodeo and the Old Cowhand Reunion go hand in hand. It takes a large group of volunteers to organize the event every year. She thanked many people for their years of work. Before passing the microphone along, Gerloff congratulated Dixie Stansberry, Old Cowhand 2020. Reading from a list of old cowboy quips, she said, "Behind every successful rancher is a wife who works in town. Dixie, this is your day. Enjoy every minute of it."

Ashley Strehl

R.C. Brown, 2019 Old Cowhand, tells a story or two about some local cowboys before congratulating Stanberry on her honor.

Rick Brown, Old Cowhand 2019, was next and he shared a story or two about local cowboys before congratulating Stansberry on her honor and presenting her with the Old Cowhand belt buckle.

Stansberry thanked the Old Cowhand Committee, her husband and her family for their tremendous support. She thanked her son Chris and her daughter Lori Lauthan for always being there. She also thanked her granddaughter, Brianna Carver, for writing such a wonderful Old Cowhand story for the Freedom Rodeo program.

Pastor Todd Finley of Freedom United Methodist Church, who was asked to bless the meal, first shared a tale or two about Dixie and Bruce. He spoke highly of their faithfulness to God and their loyalty to their community.

The catered meal consisted of barbecued beef, potato salad and assorted cookies. Ice water and tea were available. The Freedom FFA served the attendees.