Courtesy

ProRodeo's premier specialty act will be featured during the four performances of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo June 18-21 at the Wild West Arena.

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The Thurston Gang is a trick riding, roman riding, roping and whip-cracking show featuring three Thurston brothers - Wyatt, 16-years-old, Zeke, 13, and Sam, 12.

The brothers are the sons of Skeeter Thurston, a six-time National Final Rodeo and five-time Canadian Final Rodeo qualifier in the Saddle Bronc event and Lynda Shuckburgh-Thurston, a rodeo promoter and barrel racer.

The trio has performed at rodeos and events throughout Canada and the United States and even had the honor of performing for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth during her visit to Edmonton 2005.

The boys began their trick riding 5 years ago when they were just 8, 9 and 12 years old under the expert tutelage of Canadian Rodeo Hall of Famer, Jerri Duce-Phillips. They each shine in their individual stunts as Wyatt is a premier roman rider, Zeke has become nationally acclaimed for his roping skills, and Sam is famous for his "speed ball" trick rides and unique roping skills.

The Thurston Gang will join ProRodeo's top competitors as well as funnyman Lecile Harris for the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. Tickets are currently on sale at www.nebraskalanddays.com or in the Nebraskaland Days office.

Microfest finalized

Following the success of the first Wild West Microfest at the 2007 Nebraskaland Days Celebration, the event will be returning as one of the kick-off events in 2008.

Featuring 15 craft beers from around the world, attendees will enjoy beer tastings as well as a commemorative pilsner glass with their ticket purchase.

This year's event will be from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. June 12 under the Wild West Arena Pavilion. Tickets are only $15 and are on sale at the Nebraskaland Days office or online.

The night also features Fight Night Professional Boxing and a Pavilion Dance with the Jim Rice Band.

Jim Rice has been wowing fans since the age of 16, playing the bass and providing the vocals for his father’s country band. A fourth-generation cattle rancher, born in the heart of the Sandhills of Western Nebraska, his smooth baritone vocals deliver songs that make memories.