WHEREAS, throughout the history of the American West, and in Nevada, cowboy and pioneer poets have played a large part in preserving our western heritage and the culture of Nevada through oral and written poetry; and

WHEREAS, the long tradition and endearing qualities of these old stories and poems demonstrate that cowboy poetry is part of a long-cherished Nevada legacy; and

WHEREAS, Nevada has produced several, well-respected, contemporary cowboy poets, and recognizing the contributions of these poets dates as far back as cowboys themselves; and

WHEREAS, each year Nevada enthusiastically hosts the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada; and

WHEREAS, it is with pride and appreciation that I recognize the importance of Nevada’s Cowboy Poetry, and join with the general public in celebrating this unique and treasured tradition;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JIM GIBBONS, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim April 20-26, 2009, as