February 19, 2005
Pla-Mor Ballroom
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

February 18, 2005
Pla-Mor Ballroom
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

February 12, 2005
York Auditorium
York, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

February 3-5, 2005
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

In this busy weekend, Cactus Hill premiered three new songs and an exciting, new element to the stage. “What’s a Guy Gotta Do (to get a girl in this town)” by Joe Nichols was articulated by Mr. Jim Campbell. Bobby Williams put his own touch on “Look What I Found” by Chris Cagle and Alan Ramsier belted out Darryl Worley’s latest chart-topper, “Awful Beautiful Life.” The audience showed a good response to all three.

The new and exciting stage element we tested out all weekend long is a projector screen placed to the right of the stage. This six by eight foot screen projected live footage from stage, including live footage of the band and the audience, pictures of past CH events, as well as a pre-recorded video. This video was compiled to display what CH members do when they are not performing. This includes CH members at work, hanging out at home, and practicing as a band. Be on the look out for future entertainment on the big screen.

In traditional Cactus Hill drummer style, Nate told his first joke on Friday night. Let’s just call it his “cinderblock joke.” It was actually funny!! After this, Jim dabbled in a new-found style of slur-singing. As well, Eric “the blender” Richards was given a microphone and did a nice job blending his back-up vocals. I broke in my new in-ear monitor system and got to sing two songs back-to-back, this is exciting for me! During Friday’s final break of the night, Manuel entertained some friends and me by putting us on “The Big Screen” using the camera’s mirror effect. After this, the mirror effect, black and white, and other effects were used on a regular basis. Great fun!

Cactus Hill closed out the weekend by celebrating Matt Jackson’s birthday right at Coyote Willy’s.

January 22, 2005
'05 Ribit Roundup
Lancaster Event Center
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Put on by the Froggy 98 radio station and sponsors, the first annual “Ribit Roundup” featured “Ricochet” “Cactus Hill” and Nashville Recording Artist, “LeRoy Harris.” This event was a benefit for the UNL Rodeo Club. Preceding the show, there was a special “meal with the bands” of fried chicken, coleslaw, red beans and rice, but nothing to drink. Luckily, the concession stands opened up right before I took my last bites. Many VIP ticket-holders mingled at the Lancaster Event Center before the concert.

LeRoy Harris opened up the show at 8:30 with back-up band members from “ Sandy Creek” “Dietze Music House” and “Shorty” himself. Cactus Hill took the stage at 9:30, and opened with “Save a Horse” into “Everyday Love.” Following Cactus hill was the main act, Ricochet.

This five-piece, vocally-strong, “hardest working country act” put on one hell of a show. They were as entertaining as they were musically AND vocally sound. They performed Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” a cappella! It was great. They held their own version of “American Idol” featuring each member of the band singing a song not rooted in the country style. We heard MC Hammer, rap, rock and roll, Elton John, John Cougar Mellencamp, and more. Some of the audience members, including myself, had a very powerful moment as we took on the intensity of their current Christian Country Radio chart topper, “That’s Love.”

After the concert, many people mingled about in conversation. I had a very nice time at this event and hope to be a part of it in its second year, 2006.

January 21, 2005
UNL "Snow Stomp"
UNL East Campus
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

The “Snow Stomp” dance was held on the East Campus of UNL. The crowd was youthful and vibrant, college and high school kids. There was a talented male dancer who Jim said looked like Edward Norton. The hosts of the dance served sodas and water.

We premiered the latest addition to our repertoire, “You Ain’t Woman Enough (to take my man).” I am singing this Loretta Lynn classic. Representatives from the Froggy 98 radio station were in attendance, and gave us two VIP tickets to the ’05 “Ribit Roundup.” We held a name-the-artist-of-that-song contest to determine the ticket winners. This dance ended at midnight, and everyone drove home safely.

December 30-January 1, 2004-2005
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill rang in the New Year at Coyote Willy’s. Thursday night, the facility reached beyond capacity by 11:00 PM, holding 925 party-goers. There was a line wrapped around the building, of freezing-cold people waiting to get inside. What a crazy crowd!

Friday night was New Year’s Eve. Willy’s supplied hats, streamers, horns, tiaras, balloons, champagne and more to create a celebratory atmosphere. In addition, Manuel decorated his keyboards with balloons and streamers. Brian Jennings and 96 KX were stationed at Coyote Willy’s, handing out free CD’s and providing a countdown to the New Year. The radio station took care of the New Years entertainment at midnight, but left us with no music! Manuel quickly rushed up to the stage and provided his own rendition of Auld Lang Syne, a piece typically heard as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. Cactus Hill followed this up with a version of Folsom Prison, featuring horn solos. Manuel expressed many pitches during his solo, while Bobby played as though he was creating vibrato with a trumpet mute (the mute like a plumber). Nate horned in a percussive manner, intermixing this with beats on his kit, while I tried out some moves Bob usually uses during his drum-stick solos. Cindy and Donnie provided extra horns and accompanied us on stage for this final song of the evening. A great time was had by all bringing in 2005.

Saturday night was calm and cozy. We had a special guest who made a two-night appearance with the Hill, singing The Dance. The weekend winded down gracefully.

Cactus Hill is looking forward to an exciting year to come in 2005!

December 7-12, 2004
Grizzly Rose
Denver, CO

By: Nissa Evenson

The Basics:

We drove to Denver on a chilly Tuesday, leaving at 7:00 in the morning. This was our first and only day for sound check and it was a LONG one!! We played Tuesday through Sunday evening at The Grizzly Rose, and departed on Monday at 9:00 in the morning. (Jim, Bob and Nate drove back in the middle of the night and arrived home Monday morning at 7:30 AM.)

The Grizzly Rose:

We performed at a saloon and dance emporium, called The Grizzly Rose. This bar is huge! It also has its own sound and lighting crew, and equipment for all musical happenings at the bar. For six nights in a row, we performed here.

Tuesday and Wednesday nights were short evenings and we primarily play to folks taking dance lessons at the club. Both nights, we were done playing around 10 or 11 PM.

The following evenings were busy. We played until 1:30 AM every night except Sunday. Many “regulars” attended most of our shows throughout the week. Sunday night is family night/college night/BUSY night! Folks of all ages packed into the bar, and onto the dance floor. They line-danced to every song we played.

The Grizzly Rose has a “GRUB Bar,” which all of us enjoyed food from. Heather from the Grub Bar even flashed her lights for us on Sunday night. We especially liked the Nachos, and Nate really enjoyed them on Sunday night!

We always have a good time playing at The Grizzly Rose saloon and dance emporium.

Performance Capers:

• Nate enjoyed his first, full gig with Cactus Hill like a champ. I was very impressed with his performance. We are all very excited to have Nate as a drummer and friend.
• Manuel took the drums, I took the keys, and Nate took on Bobby’s stage turf for our Rolling Stones number ~ FUN!
• “I’m Moving On” turned into a trio Sunday night. We gave a drum stick to a toddler in the audience right before this tune…just as Manuel and Bob began this waltz, the toddler began to hit the drum stick right next to the stage…and he wasn’t playing a waltz! Bob and Manny pulled through it and learned to tune out a difficult distraction.
• Eric played so hard all week, that he had blisters on his fingers the final two evenings.
• Nate kicked off “These Boots are Made for Walking,” I came in with the acoustic, turned away from Nate to sing, and had to lengthen up to my tippy-toes to reach my microphone. Two songs earlier, Jim had borrowed my microphone to sing “This Everyday Love,” and failed to tilt my microphone stand back down. After singing two lines and not wanting to sacrifice the guitar part, which plays an important role (especially at the beginning), I called Jim over, called him a name, and he lowered my stand…thank you very much!
• The front-desk man from our hotel cam out to see us, and helped us close out the final line of “Cool to be a Fool”
• Booty Drop….Booty Drop….Booty Drop!!!

During the Day and After Hours:

Tuesday night we went to a dance club called, The Lotus. Bob and Nate were dancing up on a platform while the rest of us got our groove on…good times.

Wednesday night was Salsa Night at Teddy’s. This bar was located across the street from our hotel. Latin beats and lots of dancers, Bob and Nate attempted to dance to this groove with no avail.

Manuel and I were active. We went shopping, we drove to Brighton (suburb town to Denver) to jam and have lunch with some friends of ours, and we up drove into the mountains the day after a huge blizzard. We got adventurous and took a route designed for motor bikes, walking, 4x4’s, etc. We got to the top of a little hill and realized we were NOT able to go any further; Manuel slid our Explorer back down the hill. We almost exited the wrong way onto a tiny trial that looked very dangerous…we looked at each other and said “Are you sure this is the way we came in?” We got out just fine. We were downtown on Sunday and were lucky to see 400 TUBAS playing a Christmas concert in the middle of the street. The tubas were seated, and directed by two conductors. A huge audience crowded around them, and sang along. What an amazing experience!

The boys did some light shopping, had a cologne war at the mall, and played Tiger Woods golf all week long, everyday, in Al’s room. Eric and Nate also spent some time visiting with friends and cousins from the surrounding Denver area.

December 2-4, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill set a record at Coyote Willy’s on Thursday, December 3rd for attendance. We packed 800 PEOPLE into this great establishment!

800, Baaaaaaaaaaaby!!

Thursday night was CRAZY! So many people in good spirits and giving us a great response! It was so much fun to play to such an active, excited audience in our home town of Lincoln, NE. Adam played his last show with us Thursday, and the rest of the weekend was up to Nate Campbell, our new drummer. We appreciate all of Adam’s hard work with Cactus Hill and look forward to our future with Nate.

This weekend, we had three special guests on stage to sing, and a couple of birthday girls! Earl "Duke" Schenck Jr., Ray, and Matt Jackson were the singers. Margee delivered her Christmas presents to the band: sturdy drink holders to attach to the microphone stand. She designed, made and labeled them with the Cactus Hill logo. Thank you, Margee!!

Do NOT wait to get your tickets for the big New Year’s Eve blowout, rockin’ good-time at Coyote Willy’s. Ring in the New Year Cactus Hill style, because “there ain’t no party like the Cactus Hill Party…..cuz the Cactus Hill Party don’t stop!!”

November 28, 2004
Pla Mor Ballroom
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill was tired this Sunday night after traveling back from Columbia, MO during the day. Although we were not on top of our game, we still found it a nice evening. We had a three-man light crew and performed on the center stage. During our breaks, we enjoyed the groove of the band, “Final Round” with lead man Jim Rice. We found this four-piece to be a solid band rooted in an old-time country style.

We look forward to seeing you next weekend at Coyote Willy’s!!!
Be on the look-out for our new drummer, Mr. Nate Campbell (no, he’s not really Jim’s little brother).

November 26-27, 2004
Cody’s Saloon
Columbia, MO

By: Nissa Evenson

We were excited to see many of the same folks who came to see us the first time we visited Columbia, MO. In this our second stay, we bunked up at the Travelodge. I must say that my pillow was absolutely terrible. But the rest was all right.

Saturday during the day we all watched Happy Gilmore and went to the mall. This night, Bobby decided to dress Eric in his (Bobby’s) clothes down to his (Eric’s) britches. A DJ from the local radio station, Clear 99, came to introduce the band. The traditional Mardi-Gras beads were given out and we all had a great time at Cody’s Saloon.

November 24-25, 2004
Coyote Willy’s
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

This weekend marked the beginning of Nate Campbell’s drum talents to enter upon the Cactus Hill stage. He and Adam Michaels switched back and forth the entire weekend long on the drum kit. Yes folks, we ARE bringing in a fine, new drummer. The band celebrated an appreciation meal from Valentino’s on Wednesday and we experienced for the first time ever, a lack of fiddle on the introduction to Everyday Love. No worries, Chuck fixed the problem by the song’s end. Chuck also labeled all of our gear with Dr. Jim and Mini Bob pictures.

Happy Thanksgiving! Thursday night we were full of turkey and if we haven’t mentioned it lately, we are very grateful to have such a wonderful country-music-playing establishment right here in Lincoln, NE. So, on this day we gave thanks to Ron and Bonnie and Coyote Willy’s. “Shorty” (who is actually really tall) played the harmonica with us during a couple of old-time country numbers. Manuel blew up an inflatable banana and heart for the crowd to toss around. We were all glad to celebrate this holiday at home.

October 29-30, 2004
Bushwackers Saloon & Bar
Ralston, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

On Friday evening, we took the stage at 9:00. We were under the wrong impression of how long our sets were supposed to be. Because of this, we ended up with a 45 minute break after our first set. The DJ, Crazy Dave, got us back on track. This DJ used to work at Bushwackers when the original CH was playing there. He had an autographed picture from all 5 members of the original crew...Manny and Jim included.

Melissa celebrated her 22nd birthday with friends and family joining her. Jim sat with her to sing "Oh Melissa" to wish her well. Many crazy dancers graced the floor and Bushwackers displayed very good security.

Saturday night was a HALLOWEEN EVE celebration. We dressed as NERDS in formal attire. Bobby was the best darn nerd on stage. He had the glasses, the spike at the back of his hair, pants pulled up way too high and a killer nerdy attitude. I found him clapping in circles frequently.

Eric wore bullet-proof glasses, slicked-back hair, a Christmas tie and I about died when I finally noticed, during the second set, that he was actually wearing black sweat pants!

Jim had a great suit on, blue in color. His tie and pant legs were too short, his hair was parted off to the side, and he had the best pair of nerd-glasses on stage.

Manuel's tennis shoes matched his olive-green corderoy pants and his slinky tie. During the first set, his facial hair trimmings, from shaving down to a mustache, were gelled on his face to create a unibrow.

Adam wore a suit and a brand new pair of glasses.

Chip, I mean Al, had suspenders holding up a pair of khaki shorts. He wore a pair of 80's sunglases with pink sides to see the frets on his bass. Chip was in character all night long.

And me?? I guess you'll have to look at the pictures!

Bushwackers held a costume contest. The couple that received the most audience reaction plugged into each other to light up a lamp on the man's head. I was impressed! There were pimps and saloon girls, a turkey, bunnies, pirates, gore, and more.

Earl Skank Jr. came on stage to perform an original tune. His singin' and pickin' and writin' skills were marvelous. He sang "Lady, Where are you Tonight."

Bobby Migizzle-Nerdizzle had a stupendous moment on the Bushwacker's stage. We were playing Folsom Prison and as his guitar-stand solo drew near, he reached for.....the accoustic guitar. He draped it across his body positioning it beneath his little bow tie. Bob looked over at Jim and said, "I'm gonna take a guitar solo." And there he went, plink-plink-pling-strum-pound-pick!!! Bobby was wailing away on the accoustic with no reservations. By the end of it, Jim was rolling around on the floor and the band was all giggly. I will surely not forget this moment any time soon.

We hope you all enjoyed our entertainment efforts as nerds, because we all had a great time doing it. Don't forget to check out the great pictures!

October 22-23, 2004
Cody's Saloon
Columbia, MO

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill drove five hours to arrive in Columbia, MO. It was raining part of the time and we got there around 7:00 PM. Cody's is a nice-sized bar with a good atmosphere. They have a mechanical bull and I actually saw more women than men riding on that thing.

Al's new bass arrived this past week. So, we were hearing a killer low-end all weekend long; Al is very excited. We ordered Domino's Pizza during our second break and it got there in twenty minutes. We chowed down and began playing less than a minute after we ate, as Jim put it, "...the most expensive Pizza I've ever eaten."

Mardi Gras beads were passed out to the ladies and some of these girls came up on stage for a song. Bob had an All-star performance on Semi-Charmed Life. Unfortunately, I was not able to back him up this night due to a cold.

Eric tried out some new-found country licks and tore it up on Folsom Prison. The bartender in the back showed Bob how to rip a thick phone book in half using his bare hands ~ go Bob, go Bob! We had a mega Crown Royal merchandise give-away both nights we played there.

During the day on Saturday the boys sat around, ate some food, and Bob broke a window at the Days Inn. He and Jimmy were playing some football and Jim missed this Bomb that Bob threw at him. It went right past him and landed against Eric an Adam's wall-length, wall-height WINDOW! Bob will pay a large sum for this mistake.

Manuel and I hung out in downtown Columbia, MO and visited a couple of music shops where I was able to replace the rosin I forgot at home.....gotta have rosin!

Satruday night started slow due to Missouri football and the Cardinals game. As the crowd size increased, our energy level went through the roof. Before long, the dance floor was full, the Mardi Gras beads came out again, we tossed an inflatable "eye" ball around, gave away more merchandise, and Cody's saloon and bar was jumping.

We had the owner's husband on stage with us dancing around and playing the egg shaker. A fellow, named Harrison Sweazea (not Kent), played the drums with us during Sweet Home Alabama. I was able to sing again and I learned how to operate the acoustic guitar cable's switch the hard way. After our three sets of one hour durations, we hung around for a little while having a good time.

October 12-17, 2004
Grizzly Rose
Denver, CO

By: Nissa Evenson

The Inside Five

1. Set Four Backwards
2. "Adam (yell)" "Nissa (whisper)"
3. "Excuse me Mary, Beth, Nancy, Christy, Tara, Jessica, Kate, Tamara!"
4. "I wish you hadn't a done that. I was about 4 to 5 drinks into a Wild Turkey!"
5. And she didn't even smile ONCE!

Our trip to Denver, Colorado was a lot of fun.

By the week's end, we were all ready to return to Lincoln.

The Alpine Slide and Six Flags:

On a beautiful afternoon, we decided to go to the Alpine Slide and Six Flags. Manuel, Bob, Melissa, Al, Jennifer, Matt, Brian, and I all piled into 2 vehicles and headed out on a mission to find a Subway. We had to eat at Subway, because this is where you can obtain coupons for a Flix Flags discount. After I "Pocket PC Mapped" us there, we had only made a couple of wrong turns and ate just fine. After this we cruised on up to the Alpine Slide which was very cool and FUN. You ride to the top of a hill on a ski-thingie, grab a sled equipped with brake lever and accelerator, choose the "Fast lane" or the "Slow lane" and you sled down the hill on what looks like a twisty waterslide without the water. Most of us sledded down twice and had a blast doing it. Melissa and I made a pit stop here to take a dueling-bronco ride. We about got bucked off this 25 cent ride equipped with two saddled steeds. We were a hoot and the guys were thoroughly entertained!

After this we traveled to Six Flags for some wild roller-coaster riding. First, we went on the "Mind Eraser." This is a quick, short ride on which you are seated and your feet dangle in the air. It was a fun ride and the only ride we were able to go on. The next coaster we attempted got stuck as we waited in line and the third one was broke down. So, we called it a day and headed to get some drinks. The little shack we went to was out of ice, out of root beer and we were out of luck....I ended up with a Coke Float! Bobby and Manuel tried their luck at a rope-ladder climbing game to no avail. However, they both prevailed at the basketball hoops. Manuel went "swoosh" and Bobby took it in off of the backboard. They each won a basketball. Manuel also won me a little Gonzo at the hammer game.On the way out, we got free passes for the 2005 season for our troubles and we picked out our favorite group photo for print.

Mark Chesnutt

What an amazing show! Mark and his band, a nice group of people and amazing musicians, performed from 10:00 to 11:45 PM. We played before and after them and had a great time. Most of us visited with the band backstage and I even got a chance to jam with the fiddle player, Aaron. Wow ~ he is an amazing player! I was also very impressed with their sound engineers, the rhythm guitar, the keyboardist, the drummer, the steel player, the lead singer, and the electric guitar player. I was not actually aware of the songs which Mark Chesnutt had written or recorded until this concert. Check out his Miller Light accoustic guitar in the pictures section.

In our second set, after Mark Chesnutt had already played, we had a very special guest sit in with us for Sweet Home Alabama. Delaney Jackson, the electric guitar player from Mark Chesnutt, played the daylights out of Eric's guitar. All the while, he had a cigarette going, either in his pickin' hand or between his lips - very amusing. (This was a nice relief for Eric who was ill this evening and two others - he toughed it out very well.) After the show, Manuel and I chatted with this man and his truck-driving friend for close to an hour. The rest of the Chesnutts were on their way back to Nashville on a 22-hour bus ride. Delaney chose to fly home the next day instead. As Manuel and I rode back to the hotel, we picked up Adam who was walking in the middle of the road on his way back to the hotel.

The Guitar Center

I went to Guitar Center 4 days in a row, totaling around 7 times and two separate locations. So, what did we get there? Adam traded in some cymbals for a new snare drum and a drummer magazine. Bobby almost bought a new wireless microphone. I bought an on-board tuner, a cable, mandolin strings and pics, and ear plugs. Eric and Jim didn't find anything to buy. Al probably bought something. Manuel bought a Tascam US428 audio interface, a little Behringer UB502 mixer, a head-set microphone, and cables. The band bought a shaker.

The Grizzly Rose

The Grizzly Rose is a huge country bar. We played there Tuesday night through Sunday night. We all had a great time at this bar. The stage is large and the establishment has its own sound engineers and equipment. The bartenders, staff, owners and security are very nice people. It has a "Grub Bar" where you can get some GOOD GRUB! Most Friday nights, the bar brings in a national act. Sunday night is the busiest because it is open to all ages. On this night, the dance floor is jammed and the folks will line dance to anything.

Our Fans

Many folks came to the Grizzly Rose on multiple nights to support our music. Aside from the locals, we were blessed with the presence and support of some friends and family from home. Tim flew in with Jim-Bob and Aldo. He stayed the whole week and helped out the band. His wife, Shandra, drove up with Lori on Thursday. Jim's dad and sister drove down and Dan Trout showed up with his wife. Melissa, Matt Jackson from 96KX, and Jennifer came on Friday. Two of the Country Kickers dancers arrived with Brian. My friends Mandy and Jason from Brighton came down on Sunday night.

Everything Else

The Band went to the Flatiron Crossings mall a couple of times. We drove up to Estes Park (where I bought my first pair of cowgirl boots). Al's Bass suffered an injury on stage; the D-string peg and string broke. Luckily, the bar owner had a bass he was able to borrow for the remaining part of that evening. Al's bass was fixed the following day. The first night we were there, we went to a dance club called The Lotus. This was a fun place to observe or to dance. Just when I was getting my groove on, everyone wanted to go home. The following evening, Manuel and I went to a nice little bar (Arapahoe Grill) with a good band and followed up with some Nachos and grilled cheese at a 60's Diner. On the way back to Lincoln, we drove for over an hour before we found a McDonald's to eat breakfast at....we arrived there just in time, at 10:26 am. Those of us who drove (Manny, Adam, Eric, me) arrived back in Lincoln around 5:30 PM on Monday night. Those who flew (Bob, Jim, Al, Tim) had a short flight delay and apparently had an interesting morning.

Cactus Hill is excited to return to Denver and The Grizzly Rose December 7-12 of 2004.

October 9, 2004
Fat Nappy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Brrrrrrrr…….and we still reached capacity! It was a fun night with a nip in the air. Following the NE Huskers vs. TX Tech football game (where Nebraska got stomped), many people filed into the largest beer garden in Lincoln Nebraska.

Some people had the hope of running into Tommy Lee, who was rumored to make an appearance at Fat Nappy’s on this evening (he didn’t).

We came dressed in long-sleeved shirts and Al had on a winter stocking to cover his bald head. The beer garden quickly filled up as everyone gathered around to create warmth. The dance floor was very busy all night.

We had many visitors on stage; Eric and Adam’s mom and dad, and some other relatives even jumped on stage to dance.

Our sound company kept the volume down and brought only half of the sound system he had previous times to help with noise reduction. Even so….the band was issued "disturbing the peace" citations at the end of the night.

We played three long sets from 10 until 1. This was the final Party on the Beach with Cactus Hill at Fat Nappy’s. We will be seeing all of you for the 2005 season of Beach Parties next year when the weather changes and the flowers start to bloom.

October 2, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

On a beautiful Saturday afternoon in Nebraska, Cactus Hill participated in the Pinnacle Sports pre-game talk show just outside of Memorial Stadium.

The stage was set on the middle of the practice field/track at the UNL Campus. The talk show host held his interviews at the front of the stage. We played in between guests and a set at the very end of the show. I think the host liked the violin/fiddle player, Nissa Evenson (me!).

We had two young girls join Cactus Hill for this event. This dynamic duo won two tickets to the game and the opportunity to share the afternoon with the band. Caitlin and Cassy came all the way from Wayne, NE for this event. The Hill had a great time with these fun gals!

After the Pinnacle Sports talk show, the band attended the game with some friends and family. The Huskers won the game and Cactus Hill headed out at half-time to get to the next venue…!

Sept 30-Oct 2, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Thursday night, Coyote Willy’s celebrated its Grand Re-Opening with Cactus Hill. Coyote’s expanded and remodeled. As the sign said on Friday night: “A Big Willy and No Viagra.” Yes folks, the Big Willy has arrived! An additional bar, bigger and better relocated restrooms, and the pool tables have moved. The stage angles out to the audience, and the dance floor has been lengthened.

Thursday evening we premiered a new song, “This I Promise You.” Bobby Williams sings this N’SYNC tune like a canary. The night ended with a High Caliber reunion on stage that went right up until 1:00. Jason, Brad and Chad joined us Hillbillies to close out the night with The Devil into Mustang Sally into I Feel Like Making Love.

Friday night flew by QUICK! The line dancers did their thing, and my mom and pop and Jim’s mom and dad came out to watch us. The Jack Daniels girls stopped by, got up on stage, did a couple of dances, and gave away fun JD Merchandise. During Sweet Home, a middle-aged couple took over my microphone ~ and had a great time on stage with the rest of the girls. Overall, it was just a regular old Friday night at Coyote’s.

The stage came across many visitors on Saturday evening. Guest singers included: Tom, who sang a rock ballad medley; Matt Jackson, this big goon sang Something Like That; Jana almost made it on stage for Somebody Like You. Chick whaled on the spoons during Folsom Prison. Everyone had a good time on Saturday night.

PS: Thanks to Chuck for dialing us in extra-special ~ because we were sounding good out there in the new, bigger, better, badder (is this a word?) Coyote Willy’s.

September 12th, 2004
Pla-Mor Ballroom
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

We opened the night with some good old country tunes. Our lighting was great, as we used some high-tech systems.

The Ballroom was jumping with many young dancers. We traded sets (as usual in the Pla-Mor Ballroom) with the band Sandy Creek.

Our third set was full of high-energy songs, one after another. I believe it was something like: Da' Butt, Addicted to Love, Blister in the Sun, Save a Horse, Mayberry…..Everyone looked pretty worn out after this set.

Lots of the girls attempted their own dance session on Cactus Hill’s official “Stump.” This is always fun to see. We all had a good time at the ballroom and a great weekend of playing.

See y’all in a couple of weeks…….we’ve got some weddings to attend to! Congratulations to Alan and Melissa; they will celebrate their love on September 25th.

September 11th, 2004
Starlite Ballroom
Wahoo, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

This Ballroom is located a couple of miles outside of Wahoo, NE. There was a huge dance floor where many people could strut their country dance moves.

During our first set, we had a couple of technical difficulties - i.e., the soundboard went "boom!", and then we had to pause for a few brief moments before it was fixed.

Thanks go out to Chuck for his genius abilities to keep us going no matter what the equipment does.

It was a steady night with friends, family, and dancers joining us at the Starlight Ballroom.

September 10th, 2004
Fat Nappy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was another successful "Party on the Beach" at Fat Nappy’s. Cactus Hill blared, bounced and entertained a large crowd full of people ready to have a good time.

We debuted the latest addition to our repertoire, “Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy).” Everyone loved this tune. After we had already played it TWICE….it was requested again!

As usual, Mark and a handful of wild men and women from the crowd joined us on stage. And, it wouldn’t be a Beach Party if Mark didn’t take off his shirt like he was about to jump into some waves.

However, the only jumping going on was, well, everyone on stage…..BUT, Bobby pulled a Phil Vassar and climbed on top of a speaker tower. After he danced around and sang for a while, he jumped down sideways into Mark’s arms, landing safe and sound.

It was my pop’s pre-birthday celebration, so I gave him an Oakie-style “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” by adding a crazy section in the middle. We performed every Rascal Flatts tune we knew. The drummer from the band“Labeled” played with us on “Sweet Home Alabama.” And my mom finally got on stage to dance with me. Eric was getting down all night on his Guitar and Gary was getting his light-groove on. I think everyone had a blast at this Beach Jam.

Don’t miss the final Beach Party of the Summer…..Join us October 9 th @ Fat Nappy’s.

September 3-4, 2004
NE State Fair
"The Beer Gardens"
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Friday evening Cactus Hill rocked the Depot (West) Beer Garden at the Nebraska State Fair. There were many friends and family members of Cactus Hill in attendance as well as some new faces.

Since the races began right before we did, Manuel and I stopped off to watch a race from afar. Many people enjoyed dancing right next to the stage, as the stage was at the same level as the dancing area. It looked to me as though everyone had a great time groovin’ to The Hill.

Saturday evening was casual as we were in the East Beer Garden, and it was the opening night for at-home Husker football. Eric and I shared the left side of the stage and played our unison solos ‘n sync…listen for a little more of this in the future, this Bob promises you.

A few people enjoyed taking their stand on “The Stump” as it got left in the middle of the dance floor for a couple of numbers.

When we finished packing up our gear, the band had an after-hours get together. We all had a good time and Cactus Hill would like to thank Lita for her hospitality AND for allowing Manuel to use her buckwheat pancake mix….!

August 26-28, 2004
Bushwackers
Ralston, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill celebrated the Re-Grand Opening of Bushwackers in Ralston, Nebraska. It had been three years since the Hill took the stage there.

The bar has been remodeled and is under new ownership. The stage got relocated in this process and is lined with a tile floor. We shared three hour-long sets a night with the cowboys and girls of Ralston and Omaha.

Thursday night was our premiere of Kenny Chesney’s latest chart-topper, “I Go Back.” This number features Bobby Williams XI on lead vocals. Al tried out his brand new in-ear monitor system.

Friday was fun for me, because my sister, Tish, was there with my mom and pop. Jim’s family was in attendance as well and they brought along our official stump manager Dan, and of course, the stump. We used this in the middle of the dance floor late in the evening.

Eric was looking good in his new shirts! And feeling good! And sounding good! The bar was jam-packed with people ready to rock and roll all night.

Saturday there was a wedding party celebrating at Bushwackers. I wore a custom-tailored outfit from the sewing shop of Cindy Norris. There was a guitar giveaway at 10:43 PM: beautiful bright red electric with a Budweiser logo. At 10:53, they finally drew the winning number of a gentleman who’d always wanted to play guitar.

The DJ of the bar did a lovely job entertaining the crowd during our breaks – I like to send a special thanks to him for giving me a hot pink “Girls Lie Too” Terry Clark T-shirt. I appreciate that.

August 21, 2004
Fat Nappy's "CH Party on the Beach II"
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Fat Nappy’s was a blast on Saturday night! The place was absolutely packed, and so was our stage. We had beach balls flying all over the place and the crowd was wild. In our last set, we started off with Mark and Spencer singing “When the Sun Goes Down” on stage with us. Before we knew it, the stage was full of folks – dancing and singing and getting crazy.

Because Eric was gone for a wedding, Jason Shaw played guitar with us. The bugs were biting out there. I have a bite on my face right under my right eye! Playing outdoors is worth the bug bites.

We finished the evening with “Who Wouldn’t Wanna Be Me.” Mark sang this whole song to the band and stage-goers through our talk-back microphone. I enjoyed that. We all enjoyed playing at Fat Nappy’s and look forward to returning on September 10th. See y’all then!!

August 14, 2004
Saline County Fair
Crete, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

We began playing right before the Rodeo finished up. Until then, we hung out in the back of Chuck’s truck and amidst the crowd.

Our first set contained many tunes we hadn’t visited in a month or two; the second set our energy came.

The audience was large and ready to have a good time with a little drama on the side. We videotaped quite a bit of our performance; I got some great footage of Sweet Home Alabama.

On the way home, Jim and Bob got pulled over (they didn’t get any citations). We had a pretty good time in Crete, NE.

August 13, 2004
Deuel County Fair
Chappell, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

We departed from Lincoln around one in the afternoon and traveled to Chappell, NE as a unit. We rode down in a big dirty beast of a ride pulling a trailer behind us. Jim and Al drove. We arrived outside of Chappell at our hotel and chilled for about an hour. From there, we drove on to Chappell, where an American flag painted on the grain silos and 949 folks reside.

We set up on a metal stage at the grand stand. The stage ended where the crowd seating began. During set-up, the grandstand was already full, and the crowd awaited a talent show that was going to occur right before we played.

They fed us very tasty roast beef sandwiches, chips, a pickle, and vanilla ice cream. Bob, maintaining his high level of luck with food, ended up with a creepy crawler in his bun; he bit in, something flew to hit the roof of his mouth….let’s leave it at that. But the rest of us really enjoyed the meal.

The King and Queen of the Deuel County Fair were in attendance along with many fun groups of kids and adults. There was a bunch of girls in the front row who were clapping to the beat the entire evening – cool!

Following the grandstand show was: autograph signing, t-shirt selling and clothes changing for the dance. Chuck realigned our stage to face the packed beer garden. This garden had clowns serving drinks as we played on. We had a nice couple dance on stage to “I Miss.” The rest of the dancers used a little corral next to the stage. By the night’s end, it got very chilly. We packed up and headed back to our hotel where room 205 had it going on! I went to bed.

I would like to thank our manager and stump manager for driving all the way out to Chappell, NE to watch, listen, and of course, transport the official Cactus Hill Stump! We hope to return next summer for the Deuel County Fair.

August 7, 2004
Bellwood Daze
Bellwood, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

For the third year in a row, Cactus Hill rocked Bellwood Daze. Atop of a tall stage with no stairs, we dodged falling through holes in the floor from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am. The audience attendance raised as the sky blackened.

If you were in the crowd, you may have noticed a new set-up for The Hill! Adam to the left, Manuel to the right and Aldo in the middle; across the front it’s me, Jim, Bob, Eric. Please tell us what y’all think of our new stage arrangement.

In this new arrangement, I went over to the “guitar” side of the stage and sang into BW7’s microphone. Aside from the guitar strap being too long and the mike stand being straight up and down and in my way, Bob’s MONITOR was not functioning at all! So, I just focused in on the blond lady in a pink, white and blue sweater, wearing white boots, and did my best.

We had three stage guests and one permanent prop: Roger sang Blister in the Sun; Matt sang Something like That; Bart did a funked-up dance, front and center; and the official “Cactus Hill STUMP” sat right next to my monitor all night long.

July 31, 2004
7th Annual KAT 103 Fun Country Festival with Gary Allan, Rachel Proctor and Sherrié Austin
Council Bluffs, IA

By: Nissa Evenson

We felt very fortunate to present music at this wonderful venue with this amazing group of artists. We were able to meet, talk to, eat with, and perform along with Gary Allan, Rachel Proctor, Sherrié Austin and their bands.

We arrived around three in the afternoon. While waiting for our turn at sound check, we hung out backstage and in our dressing room. Just as we all sat down to eat some great catering (pork chops, fish, meatballs, sausages, green beans and asparagus, baked potatoes, salad, and wonderful desserts), it was finally our turn…so I, for one, only got through about half of my plate. Later, however, I dug into the meatballs…and they were so good I kept eating and eating and eating them. The caterers were awesome, so very nice and helpful.

We rocked the Westfair Amphitheater for thirty minutes and had the crowd going as we threw our music and Crown Royal merchandise to them. Here’s what we played: This Everyday Love, Daydreams about Night Things, Beer for my Horses, Wave on Wave, Cool to be a Fool, What a Beautiful Day, You’ll Think of Me, The Devil Went Down to Georgia, Somebody Like You, and Semi-Charmed Life.

We took video of our entire show and had an awesome time on stage. I was HOT! My face was beet-red by the time we finished – you all know how I have to be moving and dancing around constantly. We would like to thank Brad Bargen for doing a great job of playing drums with us for this special event.

After we were done playing, Sherrié took the stage with no drummer. She had a beautiful voice, and was followed by Rachel Proctor and her band. I especially enjoyed a couple of her newest tunes, “Leave Me Alone” and “I’ll Get You Back.” They were fun songs I’m excited to hear in the future.

Following Rachel was Gary Allan, who was in and out of his tour bus all night before playing. Gary Allan and his band sounded very good. Most of us got pictures with these artists we performed with. Please check out the gazillion pictures we took, they are great!

July 30, 2004
Wayne County Fair
Wayne, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

We arrived at this Grandstand event as a 4-H fashion show was just finishing up. There were many teens and pre-teens modeling clothes they had made themselves – good for them!

During this time, we were fed sandwiches, chips, beans and soda pop. Unfortunately, Manuel and I had already eaten.

Tony Hillhouse played drums with us. He did a very nice job, and also brought a friend with him to film our show. A big THANK YOU from The Hill goes to Tony for helping us out on this weekend.

On this night, before the almost Blue Moon appeared in the sky, my Hickory Stump arrived! I’ve been very excited for the band to receive this gift from Dan for quite some time. While playing “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” I now have a fun prop to jump up and down from – fun!

It was also a lot of fun to see so many kids enjoying themselves in our music. During “Semi-Charmed,” they all joined us on stage.

We closed the show with George Strait’s “Baby's Gotten Good at Goodbye’s.” Following this, the line for t-shirt sales and autographs was LONG! This crowd left us with 22 shirts remaining. Melissa took very good care of the t-shirt sales – thanks!

We all had a good time in Wayne, Nebraska. Our camera loved it so much, it decided to stay there. So, if you are looking for all of the wonderful pictures we took, you’ll have to find our lost camera to view them. If you have seen these pictures or our camera, please share them with us and everyone else dying to view them. Thanks!

July 29, 2004
Harlan County Fair
Orleans, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

After we set up for this County Fair concert, we went to the American Legion building for a nice, sit-down dinner. They served us steak, baked potato, salad, bread and butter (Jim especially liked the butter), chocolate cake, and iced tea. Very good meal! Bobby got his steak rare.

Eric and Al had the corner on fashion: Eric with a pea-green shirt and Al actually wore brown shoes!

Chuck did our sound and Tony Hillhouse played drums with us. Did anyone hear his solo on Folsom Prison? He was smokin’! Manuel even bowed down to him after it.

We had a quaint crowd with a few enthusiasts. One lady, Mrs. O’Connor, was there from sound check until the end. Our old manager, Mark, showed up to hear us play, and there were many children present. One group of girls bought Jim a snow cone. At the pause during “Cool to be a Fool,” he asked: “Can I get a snow cone?” The young girls delivered one to the stage. Jim was thirsty after draining his body before the show.

We all had a great time at this event and got done playing just as the mosquitoes came out.

July 25, 2004
Hallamstock
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Hallamstock was a benefit show Cactus Hill participated in to help raise money for those people who endured an almost complete loss of their town and homes in Hallam, Nebraska. In May of 2004, this town was ripped apart due to a fierce tornado. Although the event only raised $3,000, we were grateful to be a part of this relief effort.

July 23-24, 2004
Butler County Fair
David CIty, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Friday Night: We got completely rained out, but it was more like we got drizzled out. We didn’t even get through sound-check before the sprinkles increased. While we tried to “wait it out” some of us learned about the two outhouses provided. Bob learned that there was a big spider in the right outhouse AND that it had a big web; Eric and Chuck learned that the door didn’t stay locked in the left one. Some of us took up in our cars for a short movie preview while others mingled about. Bob took a stab at playing the bass guitar with STYLE! And for the second time in Cactus Hill History, I actually drove home.

Saturday Night: We didn’t get rained out AND we had a fun time. Many folks arrived after the races got done. We gave away lots of Crown Royal merchandise by throwing it into the crowd. The band also enjoyed benefits from our latest sponsor, Crown Royal. Sound ran smoothly other than Adam’s vocal microphone malfunction. As always, we enjoyed seeing many familiar faces out in the crowd. Thanks to all of the friends and family who drove out Saturday night to see us. And a very special thanks to those who drove out on Friday night, didn’t hear a single note, and STILL came back to see us on Saturday.

July 15-17, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Top 10 Weekend Memories

1. Matt Jackson sang with us, smiled with us and sold our tee-shirts all weekend long (with a little help from the gurls).

2. Saturday night at 9:30 PM: "The Shiz Nizzel Show," compliments of Ron & Bonnie.

3. The lead singer of Roadhouse sang a couple of numbers with us: "Much Too Young" and "The Dance" – He got into it, good!

4. The Fro! And THEN Manuel’s head got too hot next night…..no fro to protect him from the red-hot light behind him.

5. Record low attendance on Friday night, but high audience excitement.

6. Band Boating Party on Saturday afternoon – We took Jim’s boat out and Adam cooked up some burgers.

7. Singing "These Boots Are Made for Walking" while an inspirational guest was in the crowd, and fiddling "Mama Tried" to my mom and pop at their table.

8. We had some fizz-bizzle all night long on Saturday….where’s Chuck when it sounds like we need him?

9. The Hot Dizzle Dog dancin’ with the cardboard version of Dave on stage... Dave was “five-foot two with the hair!” (unlike Eric or Bob, as suspected later on in the evening).

10. Chick playin’ the spoons with us to "Georgia on a Fast Train" - always a good time!

July 10th, 2004
Penke Wedding Reception
Seward, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was great – the entire wedding party pulled up at the reception in an RV Motor Home! They came out pair by pair by pair by pair….7 bridesmaids and 7 groomsmen; one maid of honor, one best man; and the bride and groom….That makes 18! No wonder they needed such a large vehicle. Well, needless to say, the reception catered to a large crowd. We even got to eat and drink with them before we played.

We started the night with “Two People Fell in Love” by Brad Paisley. The bride and groom picked this one out specifically for the parents’ dance. The whole evening took place in the Seward Agriculture Hall. We had special tambourine guests on stage with us amongst other wedding party guests. Al was “Lovin’ Every Minute of it” and we all had a good time.

July 9th, 2004
Brainard Street Dance
Brainard, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Finally, NO RAIN!! The Brainard Street Dance was a fun time and we encountered no storms for the first time this summer while playing outside. However, it was humid! At the end of the night, my violin had a layer of water on it…..I was freaking out a little bit, but my equipment turned out ok. There were lots of bugs, including one huge one with wings and pinchers that landed right beneath me. Bob was also amazed by it; leave it to Manuel to pick it up and show everyone.

Margie and Allison sold our Cactus Hill merchandise. We also have brand new Crown Royal merchandise to give away to you folks. Be on the look out for tees, hats, key chains and belt buckles!

Can anyone tell me if the street dance broke their beer sales record from last year?

We premiered a new song: “Two People Fell in Love” by Brad Paisley. Matt Jackson sang with us and lots of kids got on stage. Although Adam couldn’t see Dr. Beat through the fog, we faired out just fine.

June 26, 2004
Fat Nappy's
First Semi-annual
Country Beach Jam
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

This first-ever event turned out to be good weather, good times, and a packed bar. This was a great place for all of us to play and to listen.

The environment at Fat Nappy’s is inside and outside. Outdoors are picnic tables, torches, Christmas lights strewn above, an outside bar, a sand volleyball court and one Hot Diggity Dog stand (courtesy of CH).

We began our show at 9:45 and ended at 1:00 in the morning. We premiered two new songs:

1. “When the Sun Goes Down” by Kenny Chesney and Uncle Cracker. Mark, the owner of Fat Nappy’s, took on the role of Uncle Cracker and got up on stage with us for this one. (He even came to practice with us on Tuesday.) Everyone liked it so well that we had to play it a second time at the end of the evening.
2. “These Boots are Made for Walking” by Nancy Sinatra. This was my lead vocal premiere, and I am ecstatic to be taking this step with Cactus Hill.

Chuck played a joke on Bob from the night before at the FSA picnic. He put a bright orange box reading “NO STEP” right under his microphone…..so instead, Bob sang out on the stage extension all night long. We got a group of girls on stage and they loved this front of the stage extension as much as BW.

June 25, 2004
FSA Party
Omaha, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill performed at a Food Services of America company picnic which was held outdoors. They had all sorts of finger foods, gourmet Ice, and a couple of kegs. We set up under a tent and waited for Eric and Bob to arrive….they got lost on the way there.

The show went from 7-10 PM and the weather held out for us. The stage was quaint and there was an area Manuel designated where no one could jump around. Chuck enforced it by laying down some bright, orange tape. He put a square with the words, NO STEP inside of it.

We had a few guests on stage including a man who helped us sing quite a few songs, and a lady who took out a microphone stand as she fell into the NO STEP zone. At the end of the night, we packed up quickly and headed home.

June 18, 2004
Haymarkey Heydays
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill was very excited to play at the Haymarket Heydays. However, the rain and a fuse did not allow us to fulfill this desire.

It was raining most of the evening and our crowd huddled together trying to stay warm and keep the rain out. We played a whopping SEVEN songs. Toward the end of “Wish You Were Here,” right at the climax, the power went out! We waited around for an electrician, but by the time he arrived, the lightnings were on their way in and we were on our way out…

….to Coyote Willy’s

We decided, as a UNIT, that it would be nice to go out and support High Caliber as much as we could for their last weekend at Coyote’s. When we got there, Uncle Ron was doing a rain dance while holding a plastic bag above his head.

We look forward to NOT getting rained out next year at this event; we really enjoy playing right here in downtown Lincoln!

*****I would like to personally thank all of our FANS who stuck it out in the rain. We appreciate your dedication and support to and of us.

June 17, 2004
Oakdale Park Summer 2004 Concert Series
Salina, KS

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill had a fun time entertaining in Salina. The concert was 2 hours long and the audience had fun; we signed lots of Cactus Hill t-shirts, posters and CD’s (and arms, and hands, and tattoos….!). Many kids and handicapped folks danced around in the front row all evening experiencing a great time.

Jim Campbell, folks…..the chic in the band! The programs for the concert placed my biography under Jim’s name as well as mine. Quite funny!

The sound guys were great even though they forgot a power source in Wichita; someone had to drive back to get it. However, they made up for it in their quality services. Aldo sported his brand new jersey and the rest of us wore our old ones. Bob sang “I’m Movin’ On” in a swaying, circular huddle right in front of the stage.

May 29, 2004
Shelby Street Dance
Shelby, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It rained and poured and the sky lit up, no tornados.

Manuel and I ran into a severe storm about 10 miles out of Shelby on the way up. Jim-Bob was about 5 miles behind; we were just waiting for a tornado to come down on us. We made it to Shelby and the rain stopped. Chuck had already set up and torn down/tarped the stage. It was about 7:45 and we made the decision to go ahead and set up for the night, knowing we probably wouldn’t last the whole night, and we didn’t.

The whole town tried to set up a tarp house shelter roof for us on stage to no avail.

On stage, it was chilly and windy. In an effort to protect us in strong winds, Bob and I bungeed a tall light post to a grounded speaker before we started to play (just in case). I about lost my bow a couple of times and at the end of our final song, the wind blew my hair in between my bow and the string….I lost all sound for a couple of seconds at the end of George Strait’s “Gotten Good at Good-byes.” At the same time, the paramedics were assisting a person who was down on the dance floor. We hope that she is ok.

We made it through a set and a half before we made the decision to pack up! And just in time, because we had everything packed except Chuck’s lights and a few cables before the rain came a pouring! Al points and says, “RAIN!” And sure enough, he saw the wall of rain coming and it did! We all ran for cover.

After packing up, we hung out in the local taverns until the rain died down, and then headed home.

May 20-22, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was a fun-packed weekend full of new music, new acts and good times. Thursday night we premiered three new songs: “Daydreams About Night Things,” “Wish You Were Here” (not the Pink Floyd version), and a Cactus Hill original tune written by James Marcus Campbell, and arranged by us, called “I Miss.” Donnie Joel (Steve) helped us get a good sound out to y’all all weekend long. On our first night out, Little Steve helped Bob sing, “What a Beautiful Day.” Lastly, “ Texas in 1880” moved to number 18 on the Cactushillboard Charts due to increased popularity.

Friday night we performed with Blake Shelton. We came out and “Hit ‘em in the Teeth” –JMC, starting right off the bat with Flatts’ “Everyday Love.” Bobby tore it up, right away, out on the platform. Ok, so the stage was extended out for Blake. However, we were specifically instructed, DO NOT go out on the PLATFORM! So where does Bobby fly out to immediately?……yes! Actually, Jim-Bob and I all found ourselves unable to resist the temptation at some point in the night…..The Devil made me do it.

Shelton put on a good show and we all stayed to watch. I particularly enjoyed one of his new tunes about “Some Beach.” It was cool that Blake Shelton’s wife was on tour with him and sold his merchandise. And as I hear, she pretty much takes care of organizing his day-to-day stuff. Good for them (I can’t see this happening with too many touring musicians).

I ended the night unluckily. Manuel and I were playing pool and he’s a little better than I am at the game. However, I usually pull down a couple-few wins depending on the night. Well, let’s just give you an example of how I lost every game. I was shooting at the 8-ball and Manny had 2 solids left on the table. As I shot for the 8, and missed, I managed to get BOTH of his solids in, on that same ONE shot!!!! Yep, he won that one, TWO!

It was a-stormin’ on Saturday night!! This had an effect on our crowd size, but not on its spirit. Most of us wore cowboy hats. Adam wore headphones and Al wore some fuzz around his bald spot. Manuel out-did us all with his HUGE AFRO! Excellent. We had 2 stage guests. 1. Matt Jackson. Jim pulled “The Baby” out of his…….and tried to sing it with Matt and Bob….interesting! Then Mr. Jackson sang “Something Like That.” He included all of Jim’s extras such as…..”railrrrrrroad tracks,” and “mini mini mini mini skirt.” 2. Chick. He played the spoons on “ Georgia on a Fast Train.” He always does an outstanding job! Jim put 6 hats atop of BW3’s head while he sang “I’m Movin’ On.” Here’s to Bob and Manny for not allowing the music to get distracted by this. Good Job Guys!! Saturday night it was “Cool to be a Fool” (and sit down all in a row up front) for Eric, Jim, Bob and me. All in all, it was a fun weekend. Good times, good tunes, and good set-ups and tear-downs every single night.

We hope to see you all this weekend at the Shelby Street Dance.

May 6-8, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Thursday:
Eastside….Eastside….Manuel got a new Keyboard and used it to its fullest all weekend long. We re-debuted a couple of old classics, “Much Too Young” by Garth Brooks and George Strait’s “Gotten Good at Good-Bye’s.” Eric debuted a new-found, good-timing vibe. Spencer Murdock got up on stage and gave a toast to our good country. A famous singer/songwriter graced Coyote Willy’s as well. Lil’ Steve took us to the end of the evening with “Leaving October.”

Friday:
We went for the khaki-shorts, sandals, and t-shirts. Al and I wore bandanas. It was the slowest night of the weekend, but we held it up as if it wasn’t. Guest singer, Matt Jackson sang “Something Like That.” We ended the evening strong with “The Devil” at mock speed into “ Copperhead Road.”

Saturday:
The Coyote Willy’s Dancers came out and did their thang! Meanwhile, back at the…….Ranch! Saturday was a fun night and the crowd was wild. We had a fun time at Coyote Willy’s.

Don’t miss us May 20-22 right back at Coyote’s!

April 25, 2004
Pla-Mor Ballroom
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill appeared at the Pla-Mor ballroom on a Sunday night for the first time in almost 2 years. We all had a good time playing with Sandy Creek. We gave away t-shirts and CD’s to a rambunctious audience.

The dance floor was so wild that at the end of the night, a guy swung a girl underneath his legs, and her legs flew right under mine…..and then I was the one falling on my a**! Luckily, Margee was there to help me back up. I have a bruise from that one!!

We all ate cheeseburgers and enjoyed Chuck’s loyalty to the band helping us sound x-tra nice. We appreciate it, CHucK! We all hope to be back at the Pla-Mor Ballroom soon. Until then……

We’ll be at Coyote Willy’s May 6-8……Ya’ll come!

April 23-24, 2004
Da Sale Bizzle
Fremont, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Wireless unit……$500
Trying to do a sound check with the cable NOT plugged into your fiddle…..priceless.

Bob’s new button-up-the-front cowbilly shirt from Hollister ……$25
Forgetting a verse to I'm Movin' On during the best run-through of your life……priceless.

Printing up set lists and having them laminated…...$7
Jim having no talk-back microphone during the first set …..priceless.

Dr. Beat with Eric’s discount……….$130
Not seeing Alan stomp his white New Balance tennis shoes to show us the tempo…… priceless.
(Now that he doesn’t need the ‘white’ shoes, he’s retired to some nice brown ones.)

Cactus Hill T-Shirt…………….$12
Doing a hand stand to win a free t-shirt and falling flat on your back……priceless.

Brand new 9-volt battery for the wireless transmitter...............$4
Playing The Devil with the transmitter swinging off the fiddle while Bobby tries (and fails) to put it back on my pocket........... priceless!

7 warm-up beers to grow the courage to sing a song with The Hill……..$14
Matt Jackson of 96 KX singing “Something Like That” and tearin’ it UP! ……priceless.

Tank of diesel in Chuck’s (our soundman) truck………$45
Running out of gas on the way back from Fremont in the middle of nowhere….priceless.

April 1-3, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill serenaded the Coyote Willy’s folks on the day of Jokes! I neither received nor gave any April Fools this year (that I know of). However, it looked like someone pulled one off on Jim—cutting holes into his jeans. Just joking, he was really just going for the Rascal Flatts style. Anyway, Thursday was the only night we got the pack of girls on stage for dancing. Ron graced us with a round of shots on stage right before we played Big Star.

We had our regular crowd of people on Friday evening; lots of good dancers and some family and friends. We were all glad to see Cindy and Donnie at Coyote’s Friday and Saturday nights. They sure do know how to dance to Sweet Home. Bob and Jim were both coming down with a cold this night.

Saturday night was long awaited and Bob still had a tough cold. However all things went well and Leroy gave “I’m Moving On” a solid try in Bob’s place. Infamous Chick joined us for Folsom Prison playing the spoons. We always enjoy having him play with us. Well, it may have been a little salty on stage, but there was none to be found at the shot bar…!?! We all had a good time at Coyote Willy’s over the weekend.

March 26-27, 2004
The Sale Barn
Fremont, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Our weekend was full of teamwork! We all helped to set up lights and sound (we usually hire out for this). And at the end of the weekend, we all helped to tear it down. Jim, Bob and I all ran the lights…! High Caliber members helped us run our sound out front. Jason got up on stage and showed off his multiple talents on Friday evening. Many friends and family joined us in Fremont.

We premiered two new songs! BWIII sang like a bird on Keith Urban’s new, “You’ll Think of Me,” and then tore it up on “Everyday Love” by Rascal Flatts (we all tore it up!). During “Somebody Like You” the power went out on Manuel right before the break in the middle (It comes back in with banjo and mandolin). I filled ‘er out until the power returned.

We gave away some Cactus Hill t-shirts to some ladies. Both nights were a lot of fun. We return to Fremont April 23-24. See you then!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

February 26-28, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Saturday night we were graced with the spoon playing of Chick. Steve got up on stage to sing Leaving October. Meanwhile, Jim Bob and I jumped off stage to dance and take pictures. We blasted Coyotes at the beginning of our 4th set with Sweet Home into Blister in the Sun. The Violent Femmes have long been a personal favorite of mine. I can remember riding in my sister’s car about 10 years ago wondering what the heck she was playing on her stereo…?!? I soon came to appreciate this music and at one point attempted to arrange Blister in the Sun for my high school String Quartet. Now I get to play it for real!!!

Cactus Hill had an after hours party at Jim’s new home on the lake. I had a good time chit-chatting with the girls while my boys played a “Nintendo” golf tournament.

Didn’t get enough of the new-and-improved Cactus Hill last weekend? Join us and KAT 103 in Omaha for the grand opening of Club Omega THIS Thursday, March 4. And bring a date ‘cause girls drink free from 9-11!

February 20, 2004
UNL Rodeo Dance
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Friday night was our first appearance at The Pla-Mor Ballroom in a year and the place was packed; many thanks to the Rodeo and Horticulture clubs. Matt from 96 Kicks kicked us off before each set and provided free CD’s for us to give away. Many people crowded the stage front to guess the artist of a given song to win one.

The dance was all ages and went from 9-1. There was a sweet girl who stood in front of the stage singing along all night. Most of Jim’s family attended the dance.

On stage, The Hill demonstrated a close-knit sound as our new drummer, Adam Michaels, is quickly acclimating into the group. Join us again at Pla-Mor on Sunday, April 25.

February 13-14, 2004
The Sale Barn
Fremont, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Friday night, we all chucked our Rascal Flatts tickets and headed to Fremont, NE to entertain the Michaels and Reimnitz families. We were at the old stomping grounds of Adam and E. whom both grew up in Fremont. Both families joined us for the weekend entertainment.

Friday night Eric had his debut of a Chicago song and then proceeded to sing Fast as You. The evening was slow-paced and Jim gave Adam his first solo number, Texas in 1880. By the end of the night we picked up the pace and “Jim met this Reimnitz, Out on the Floor………………..!!"

Saturday was Valentine's Day. Many couples celebrated at the Sale Barn. (Larry Reimnitz, Eric [and Adam's] dad, later told us Saturday night was the busiest it's been in a while.) Jim and Manuel performed a special Cactus Hill Old-Style Reunion Medley. I enjoyed it very much and so did the audience.

Come see us next month when we’re back at the Sale Barn March 26-27.

January 24, 2004
Showcase
Kearney, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill arrived at the Ramada around 2 pm. We all chilled out and got ready in our hotel room as a UNIT. We listened to a recording of our latest practice to refresh our brains on what the heck we were going to play.

We played our music and went out in the crowd as we tried to get the audience a little riled up. We saw Jenny, Janna and Gary from “Blackwater.” We also said hi to animated Hanna McNeil. That girl has got some energy!

Almost everyone I chatted with about the Hill thought I was about 15 or 16 years old!
At the end of the afternoon, our booking agent shared some low-life motel secrets with me as we manned the booth together.

We all left Kearney and headed straight to North Platte for our evening performance.
Another Successful Showcase!

January 23-24, 2004
Country Rose
North Platte, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Friday night was our first performance with our new DruMMer!! Cactus Hill welcomes Adam Michaels. Check out his bio. Steve Watts provided sound all night in red sweat pants and a green shirt.

At one point in the evening, the bar ran out of shot glasses; the owner had to come up on stage to salvage their collection. Bobby sang "I’m Moving On" to bartender WhiP. Or is it Whit? I don’t know, so we’ll call her “Whip!” and that is that.

In the middle of a set, an ambulance came to rescue a lady. They came in with a stretcher while we were playing….Al didn’t even notice this was all happening!?!

Saturday evening we were graced with the presence of The Harlem County Hookers. A local group of gals who know how to party with Mardi Gras beads. At the end of the night we had Nizzle on the Fizzle and Jim had some Crown in his Kizzle?!?

While we were packing up, “Red Bull” asked a gal to marry him right there on the Country Rose dance floor. I think she said yes. At the end of the night, we all headed back to the Stanford Suites to turn in.

Sunday we traveled back to Lincoln in a winter wonderland. We met up in Kearney for a caravan. As Manuel and I were following behind Adam and Eric, we FLEW off the road, into the DITCH, crossed the other side of the road where we slid in between a blue mini-van and a semi and concluded through the other side of the road and dodged a tree, coming to a hault!! Manuel, Nissa and the car were all OK! Manuel found it a thrill and I was freakin’ out! Did I mention that Manuel was talking to Jim on his phone while this occurred?!? He told him, “ I have to let you go,” as he threw the phone onto my lap and drove us to safety. Anyway, we all made it home in good condition after a fun weekend in North Platte.

January 1-3, 2004
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill was excited to play the first weekend of 2004 at Coyote Willy’s. A ton of fun was had all weekend long.

Thursday night Jim and Bob tried on their new, blue, fuzzy slippers. Jim-Bob got me up on a table for the Devil and Bobby played his Folsom Prison solo on a glass of ____? Friday he played the mic stand and Saturday night it was a pitcher of beer.

Friday night was full of interesting things. Brad Bargen played some drums with us and we also had a guest guitarist for the Jingalingaling tune. At the end of the night, Bobby lost my pick, so I borrowed on e of Eric’s. M&M came to see us play again. We enjoy their support.

Saturday evening was Shane Mason’s last night with Cactus Hill. He celebrated with a slew of shots in his last set. We played right up until 1:00 in the morning. Bobby, however, celebrated with Ron right before our final set.

James Novatany sang The Dance with us on stage. We had a high-energy ending which suits us perfect!

Watch our web site and keep your eyes peeled to find out who will be the new drummer for Cactus Hill.

December 20, 2003
Alpha Gamma Rho Barn Party
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

In a large building. In the corner. In the dark. “Doin’ Da Butt!” Yep, that was us. Beginning of the second set, we sang and played “Doin’ Da Butt” in the dArK! And the dance floor was slowly packed.

Before the show began we all ate sloppy joes and hotdogs from the concessions. This big room had an echo. Luckily Jim convinced our audience to “Bring” their tables and chairs “Brack,” nearer to the stage for a closer experience with The Hill. Later on, some people got really close when Bobby jumped out into the crowd to sing, surrounded.

We all had a pretty good time at the Barn Party. The crowd was young and they were having fun out there. We had three boys come up on stage and play Sweet Home Alabama with us: electric guitar, acoustic guitar and vocals. They did a good job.

We hope that this organization was able to make a good charitable profit at this event.

December 19, 2003
Private Party @ Cornhusker Hotel
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Rich Cassidy hooked us up with this venue and was there to cheer us on all evening long. Everyone there was dressed up and there was food set up around the entire room. By the end of the night, we had a full dance floor.

We had three fellows grace us on stage for “Darlin’ Darlin’.” They were having a great time. Eric and Rich did a repeat performance of “Every Rose has its Thorn” It turned out quite well AND, Eric had a special lady guest on stage to assist his vocals as well as his infamous guitar solo…by way of mouth. FANTASTIC!! Very entertaining. I think we all had a good time.

December 13, 2003
JC's Dance Club
Auburn, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was a little night club in Auburn where the drinks flow like a gentle river, the owner runs the sound equipment, and the people appreciate some good old country music. I think Jim and Bob gave away all of our CDs and t-shirts. My favorite part of the night was when Jim tells Bobby Will to use his microphone to sing “I’m Moving On” and the thing isn’t even on!

Sound check ran a little late. With just enough time, Manuel and I ran over to the local Amigos to grab some grub.

And the crowd WeNt WiLd with me on the devil. So, I’m out on the dance floor and about fell on my @&$; it was slick! We had to pull some teeth to get the folks out on the floor. But when they did…..look out! I even got conned into Two-Stepping with a nice little old man. He had a bet with someone that he could get the fiddle player to dance with him. Well, he won that bet!

We were graced with Brad Bargen’s drum skills all evening long. Straight from Nashville! To help us out, one time. You see, when I’m writing this diary and look back on the night we played, sometimes I get Bob’s voice stuck in my head and the words just come out differently than I would normally express them. Anyway, it was a lot of fun playing with Brad.

The night club had a couple of chairs shaped like ladies dress shoes. One was fuzzy black with leopard print, so we decided to put it on stage for a short while.

Eric and Bob had a contest going with the lady bartenders. I never did hear how that turned out…?!? Al played in the dark-spot all night long. “Can I keep my stapler, b!@^*#&!?!” Al wondered.

It was nice to see Jim’s parents and family come hear us play in Auburn, Nebraska. We look forward to returning in the near future.

December 4-6, 2003
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Every weekend we play at Coyote Willy's there are things that are constants, and things that change. Every time I sit down to write the Coyote Willy’s Tour Diary, I find myself noticing, more and more, the similarities amongst weekends. There’s the Same Ol’….and then there’s The sPiN!

Thursday night

Same Ol’: The place is always hoppin' and packed! This includes the dance floor. It’s a younger crowd, and the band is just getting warmed up for the weekend as we dial it in with the sound guys (usually Chuck or Ben). We premier the new songs we have learned that week. After the first set, we always head up to the shot bar. At the end of the night, the stage fills with dancers for Sweet Home Alabama.

The sPiN: We had a special guest play with us all night long…High Caliber's John Shaw on acoustic guitar. For the Devil, Jim pulled a fan up onto stage to air-fiddle right along side of me…Thanks Jim! Manuel fine-tuned his new mixing board gear. The new tune? “Mayberry” by Rascal Flatts.

Friday night

Same Ol’: Friday night is parents’ night. My parents and Jim’s folks are always there, sitting at their same respective tables. The line dancers take over the dance floor. I like Friday nights. There’s a small, yet attentive crowd. We as a band are in a comfortable place the first set; we blend, beat and cook our music up just right.

The sPiN: The bride from a wedding we played for last summer sang “What a Beautiful Day” with us; Steve sang “Leaving October.” Eric was talking into the microphone…and chugging his beer….Jim was sportin’ his Overalls with the sliced legs. Brad Bargen from The High Caliber Band sang Sweet Home with us. We landed the night on a Who Wouldn’t Wanna be Al…Congratulations again, buddy, on settin’ a date!!

Saturday night

Same Ol’: Once again, the bar fills with lots of cowboys and gals. The flower lady arrives toward the end of the night. All the girlies can’t seem to stay off stage for Blister in the Sun. When the night’s done, we reflect on the whole weekend experience as everyone is shoed out of the closed bar. We pack up our gear, and sit at the edge of the stage as the smoke clears. The lights turn on, Jim divies up the doe, and we head out until the next time.

The sPiN: Fourth Set, baaaaby- we were rockin’ and talkin’ with a strong finish…All the way up to one o’clock (almost). Shane was hearing no complaints for once. During Folsom Prison JimBob got up on a table to do the cowbell solo. I even went out with em’ to take pics. Bob was walking on about 14 ft. of water… The flower lady gave me a red rose, thank you! When the night ended, we popped in a tape of what we recorded that night of ourselves, and listened in awe as we packed up for the night. Jim gave me my money AND Manuels….!! I’m liking that. AND I’m liking playing with Cactus Hill. I feel as though we are finally starting to gel (since the addition of new members including myself last February!) and as always, I’m having a great time! See ya’ll at the next one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

November 6-8, 2003
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

October 16-18, 2003
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Friday night Eric showed his true vocal talent on stage, with Ritch Cassidy. Ritch played guitar to accompany Eric’s interpretation of “Every Rose has its Thorn.” It was all-encompassing; Eric also sang the guitar solos…! Even Jim couldn’t stop him. Go E!

The beginning of Friday night was “Off the Chain!” said Bdouble3. We were nailing our new tunes and concluded our first set with The Devil. I exercised the use of the entire dance floor for this one. Later in the evening, I’d like to thank Jim for the refreshing s-h-o-t—on stage, YEP! Much needed for my semi-charmed la-hife!

Thursday night was a taffy pull….?!? We were graced with the Coyote Willy’s Dancers on Thursday AND Friday nights.

Saturday was a fabulous evening out at Coyote Willy’s. Shane was on time and rearing to go! Bobby and Manuel keyed in on “I’m Moving On.” And by the end of the night, we had the girls dancing up on stage.

See ya’ll the first weekend of November (same time, same place)!!

October 7-12, 2003
Grizzly Rose
Denver, CO

By: Nissa Evenson

Thursday:
I was "high on a mountain top, wind blowin’ free, thinkin’ about the days that used to be. High on a mountain top, standing all alone, wondering where the years of my live had blown." Up in the Rockies, I climbed to a mountain top with my mandolin and sang out into the valleys my favorite song, “High on a Mountain Top.” That’s exactly where I was on Thursday, the day we all went to Estes Park. My first time in the mountains…amazing! Bob, Eric and Manny all climbed up there, too. The whole band went as a unit. Earlier in the day we drank from Starbucks and admired the famous crossing place. This is where Roger* had attempted to “cross” last year, across a flowing river, and took an unexpected plunge in for a brisk, cold, splash. No one dared it this year.

While we were up in the mountains, Jim had a life-altering bird feeding experience. He was standing, arms up in the air, with nuts in his hands for about 5 minutes. Just as the bird flew into his palm to feast, Bobbob, the proposed picture-taker, was too busy taking a picture of the rocks to notice the awaited event. However, a second attempt turned into a great picture.

Thursday night was Ladies Night at the Grizzly Rose. Stephanie came down from Nebraska to enjoy the music and help us sell some t-shirts.

We arrived in Denver on Tuesday. JimBob flew in and the rest of us drove. We had soundcheck at 2 PM with Runt and Stew. The first night was a quick 2 sets long and we were off to check out the downtown scene. We spent most of our time walking around and ended up at a dance bar.

Wednesday was guitar center shopping day. That night, we performed 3 sets. Right before our last set, Jim bought me a TrIpLe sHoT of Crown, then threw me on stage for our premier performance of The Devil….what a way to fly out at the Grizzle Fahshizzle…! We performed 3 sets and were off to “The Mynt” for dancing and $9 Rum and Cokes!! Then to a hip-hoppity bar…get down, get down…and ended up eating Punk Pizza at 1:30 in the morning. This place was great. They used kids’ toys to track your order like BW3’s uses flashing squares to track you table. Fun night!

Friday was our first band meal…lunch buffet!! I can’t remember if I sat next to Eric or Roy**. That night at the Rose, we had 14 flippin’ shots of CrOwN on stage with us, just chillin’ on Shane’s drum riser. I think the guy in the yellow shirt really liked us!

SaaTTerDAHAHAHAHAY!! Manuel and I went to the Olde Pickin’ Parlor where I got a couple of fiddle books and some picks, and Manuel some guitar strings. Yep. Then we ate supper at Johnny Pastrami’s. Holy hell of a mongo sandwich! Hot Pastrami and I could only eat half of it! The Bahoyus all went to the mall; they found head massagers there. Wow! Al tried his on me and it really did give me goose bumps. That night we were rockin' and a rollin', gettin’ our groove on. Jim wore his new black embroidery shirt and Bob was sportin’ yet another new outfit. Al was in his white tennies. Rocky, from Lincoln’s own Coyote Willy’s, captured it all on camera.

Sunday, Manuel and I went to Ocean Journey. What amazing aquariums! I had a great time there since I love that kind of stuff. Afterwards, we gorged ourselves at the Cheesecake Factory. We made it back to the Hotel around 7:10 and were to be at the bar at 8:30. I had just enough time to ONE: not move for a while so I didn’t die of being too stuffed! And TWO: take a shower and get ready for the night. At 7:15 we got a call that we were to start playing at 7:00 PM!!!! (we didn’t know). Needless to say, I jumped up, changed into decent clothes, and grabbed my fiddle and mando as we ran out the door. We started right on time, at 7:30. At the Grizzly Rose, Sunday is Family Night, and the place was absolutely packed. This ended our 6 night show in Denver, Colorado.

*Roger: Former CH guitar player.
**Roy: Eric's alter ego.

September 18-20, 2003
Coyote Willys
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill kicked off Thursday at Coyote's on Jim's Birthday. Lots of birthdays were celebrated throughout the weekend. It was a busy night. We had a special guest soloist on Folsom Prison on the wooden spoons. He was awesome, and the crowd loved it. He had a repeat performance on Saturday night. Since we were blessed by the presence of John Shaw in the audience, we had him come up and do a couple numbers with us. As always, he did a wonderful job.

Friday night, we started right at 8:30. One of our sets began with Shane running up and on stage. He hurled over his drum set and jumped in right on time.

Saturday night was eventful and busy. A young bachelor came on stage with his ball and chain (literally). His lady-to-be freed him from this fun pre-wedding reality check. The Coyote Willy's dancers performed for (and on) a lucky lady in between sets. Eric sang a couple of songs on the spin. Toward the end of the night, I picked up some bells on stage that looked like mini cowbells, one medium sized and the other small. Lucky for me, the bell pitches were the first and fifth in the key of G Major, and so was the song I picked them up during. We had a guest singer on What a Beautiful Day and ended the weekend with Copperhead Road.

Next weekend we're on the road to Omaha. Qwest Center here we come, Friday night from 9-12.

September 10th, 2003
CH with Jason Boland & the Stragglers at Coyote's
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

The drummer for Jason Bolland had to return home at the last minute; his wife was in labor. Tony Hillhouse came to their rescue and did an AMAZING job filling in!! Some members from 40-20 joined them on stage for a number to add some spice to the show.

I am looking forward to playing at Coyote's ALLL WEEKEND LONG…….September 18, 19, 20. Ya'll come!

September 5th, 2003
Prairie Stomp
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

By the end of the night, the stage was FLOODED with foLkS!!! One song was for all the guys hoppin' around on the front of the stage, the second one for the lovely ladies who love to FaRm. Yes, that was the highlight of the annual UNL Agricultural Sciences Prairie StomP!

The crowd of people was medium sized, but lively. And they all liked to dance. During "The Dance" a group of them gathered in a big circle and swayed together.

We had a special guest who paraded the stage for almost an entire set. She was a lovely dancer herself: pink, black, and bLoNde…It was also couple's picture night with Cactus Hill. Check for your pic from Friday night.

Before the show began, Eric, Manuel and I all gathered around a microwave for some Red Baron personal pizzas. Later, we all picked up some Prairie Stomp T-shirts as souvenirs to a fun evening.

August 31, 2003
NE State Fair
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was a RAINY Sunday. Luckily, it let up as the evening began. Although it was dreary weather, people still came out to get their spirits lifted with some rockin' tunes, Hard Lemonade and even harder dancing.

Cactus Hill started playing at 5:30 PM and went until midnight. During our break, Jim-Bob, Manny and I walked around the midway. We caught a Crocodile show, a barbershop quartet, a parading African-American dance and drum group and some cheese on a stick.

Later on in the night, Eric got his groove on with some gals in the crowd (he can play and dance at the same time!).

Bobby tried the acoustic guitar on for size AND tried out the drums.

Jim sang all night long with his cow-licked hair-do.

We had a guest singer once again for The Baby, which sounded pretty good. Luckily we stopped playing before Sept. 1…!! [inside joke]

We'll be on the UNL E>Campus Friday September 5th. See ya there!!

August 14-16, 2003
Coyote Willys - Rib Fest
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Man! It’s great to be back home, inside, and with a familiar crowd. Cactus Hill has wound up most of its summer traveling, and swan dove into Coyote’s on Thursday. Hello ENERGY!! The joint was packed and Eric brought out his brand new guitar. Very nice, E!!!

Friday we played at Rib Fest in the late afternoon. We got complimentary Windsor shot glasses and towels. And it was HOT out there, but all the same a pretty good time. That night was mild at Coyote’s. However, that did not stop my parents from CrAzY Dancing, but I’ve gotta love em’. Ron joined us on stage during our encore at the end of the night.

Saturday night at Coyote Willy’s was eventful. Can I get a Diamond Rio…Rio…Rio! It was Alan’s birthday (who plays with Blackwater). Jim helped arrange an exciting surprise party for him including a singing telegram. She sang him a song, pestered him, and persuaded him to give his wife a lap dance...

The Coyote Willy’s Dancers gave a performance to a gal on the middle of the dance floor. Later on we had a special guest sing “The Baby” with us. Bob was all kinds of lit up after we hit the shot bar. The night concluded with a ton of people on stage for Sweet Home. Yeah, Shane had an interesting experience with that… Overall, I had a really fun weekend.

Catch us NEXT in the W. Beer Garden at the Nebraska State Fair.

August 10th, 2003
Shelterfest
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill played for a great cause on Sunday. It was a benefit concert for Lincoln Public Schools Homeless Program at Pioneers Park. We only played for a half-hour because there were bands going all day long!

It was a rocky start because we couldn't hear anything we were doing. As we began, all I could do was run from one side of the stage to the other trying to figure out which microphone I was supposed to use before the chorus started on Big Star. I just grabbed one and hoped for the best. Bobby ended up using a wired mic, but I think he got over it. As we went on, they dialed in the sound and we had a good time.

Shane also played with the group that performed after us, Ashanti African Roots & Culture. They were great!

August 9th, 2003
Saline County Fair
Crete, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

The Saline County Fair show started out slow and only got better as the night progressed. To start out, Manuel broke his right hand this week. However, his playing was still pretty darn good with only 9 fingers available for use.

We began early because the power went out at the Rodeo next to us. This only lasted through our first set. When the Rodeo ended, we actually acquired an audience!

A student of mine, Mariah, watched us play with a couple of her friends. Later on she dared to get up on stage with us and played the fiddle tune, "Bile Them Cabbage Down," at light speed. Everyone in the crowd cheered her on and the Hill backed her up. What a great time!

BWIII and Lacy celebrated their One-Year Anniversary together at the fair. Cactus Hill dedicated the song "Loving Every Minute" to them as they shared a quick dance on stage. It was also a big night for Bobby and the cowbell. He busted out some new beats and grooves during a couple of different songs.

Brandy and Lacy opened up the CH T-Shirt stand to sell some merchandise in between sets and we all signed shirts and CDs. It started to sprinkle around 12:15, so we decided to call it quits for the evening. We packed up and headed home.

Next weekend we're back in Lincoln. Come hear us at Coyote Willy's Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. See ya there!!!

August 2nd, 2003
Bellwood Daze
Bellwood, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was another street dance up on the high rise and in the spotlights under the evening stars. Well, kind of. Our lights were not all functioning and our sound got off to a rocky start. Overall, it was a rather casual night for the Hill.

However, Shane did a little comic skit again. This time, he played a little more guitar AND he did an Elton John impression. He held up light covers shaped like Elton John’s glasses to his eyes and started singing like him. He added some words of wisdom dedicated to the groom from Friday night. I’m not going to repeat them for the sake of married women everywhere.

The bride whose wedding we played for the night before came out to see us WITHOUT her husband. She just couldn’t miss us at the DAZE. All of Bob’s Butler County fans came out to see us. The same person who sang Blister in the Sun the night before helped us sing it again. Apparently it was getting wild on the dance floor for some people, because a friend of Mellisa's* broke her toe. We hope she is doing well.

Come see us next weekend at the Saline County Fair in Crete, NE on Saturday night. Bring your dancing shoes, money for beer, and a date!!

*Melissa: Al's sweetie.

August 1st, 2003
Richard and Jenny's Wedding @ Pla-Mor
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

We began our evening with a Mark Wills song, Loving Every Minute, specifically prepared by us for the bride and groom. It was a lovely first song for them to dance to. The bride was Jim’s cousin and her groom was a friend of Jim's. This made the night a bit more laid back for a wedding reception.

Manuel’s keyboard stand broke the night before. Because of this, he attempted to play two keys next to each other instead of one above the other. Before the end of the first set, he was playing a couple of songs with his arms crossed over each other. So, he rigged it up later so he could play well.

Jim made his own version of Tim McGraw's Everywhere during the dollar dance. Shane played some guitar and did a short comic act. Funny as hell, but just wait until Saturday night…! Anyway, he was running around stage with E’s guitar, cigarette hanging out of his mouth, during a nice slow song. I have no idea how Jim kept on singing without cracking up. After that, he played some Smoke on the Water. Eric even got on the microphone…

At the end of the night we had three guest singers. Snake, Jim’s dad, sang Out with a Bang. His friend “let us go on” with Blister in the Sun. We concluded the night with Uncle Terry singing from a table next to the stage, Give Me Three Steps.

July 25-26, 2003
Butler County Fair
David City, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Cactus Hill fired it up on Friday night in the Beer Garden. The crowd was jumping with their hands flailing as they fed off our high energy. Jim was, as usual, making another fashion statement. He wore a pair of overalls whose pant legs had seen the bright shine of Jim's scissors. He had no shirt on; he wore white tennis shoes and a baby blue bandana around his neck. I'm about to start up a new column along side the Tour Diary, called Jim's Fashion Innovations. As well, Shane had on a red bandana, very nice.

Special guest Jack Caine joined the Hill on stage to sing Folsom Prison. We all had a fun time with him. Jim's daughter, Miami, and her friends got up on stage to demonstrate an Electric Slide. Bobby drove the crowd nuts at the end of our Friday show with a double-header, Big Star into Love you Out Loud.

Saturday was well received. Manuel and I started our night out with corn dogs and a funnel cake. Funny story: The first funnel cake we got had a fried fly attached to it. It was cooked on to a CRISP. We braved getting a second one which had no fly fried on. All things considered, it was a damned good funnel cake!!

It rained briefly and we had to step down for about fifteen minutes. Later on Manuel and Eric started funking things up a bit. We all joined in for a jam and Al started singing "Play That Funky Music." Lots of fun!

Bobby's son announced from stage that his favorite band was Cactus Hill and Eric showed up with a couple of blond streaks in his hair. The highlight of the night was when BWIII crowd-surfed. Our audience was so wound up that security had to move them away from the stage when we were finished.

Catch us next weekend in Bellwood, NE for Bellwood Daze!!!!!!

July 23rd, 2003
North Iowa Fair with High Caliber
Mason City, IA

By: Nissa Evenson

July 13th, 2003
Practice @ Jim's Parents' House
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Top 10 Reasons Why Shane Pissed All Over the Toilet Seat at Practice:

10. He thought it was a drum stick.
9. He was making a smiley face on the seat cover.
8. He failed at aiming practice as a small child and gave up on his eighth birthday.
7. He was playing “Look at the way it Jumps.”
6. He was practicing getting just the right tempo for “The Devil.”
5. It got caught in a draft from the air conditioning.
4. Helicopter… helicopter… helicopter…
3. He was marking his territory by lifting his leg.
2. He was pretending he had a microphone…can we get this guy a microphone?!? (even
Eric gets to have one!)
1. He was too busy admiring himself in the mirror to notice.

July 11th, 2003
Brainard Street Dance
Brainard, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was a typical street dance with beach balls, t-shirt sales, hot dogs and beer. The kids there made the night really interesting. First they put a frog on stage with us. Then they learned how to make the "E" sign. I think Bobby taught all of them the art of the "E" while he was down with the crowd briefly. Next, a group of them got up on stage with us for Blister in the Sun. Wow, those kids can bust some moves! Afterwards, we signed their socks, their arms, their hands, and their t-shirts.

Big "E" got another shot to sing Fast as You in Brainard. I think that next time, he'll have the lyrics memorized…just in case!

Manuel had a St. Paul flash back at the end of The Baby. By the end of the evening, the street was PACKED. And I think Brainard broke their record of alcohol sales at their annual street dance…?!? They only had 100 to go before last call.
We all had a fun time. Join us on July 25-26 in David City for the Butler County Fair.

July 5th, 2003
Wedding
Crete, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

This was our first wedding of the summer. The reception was held in a large building with no air conditioning. However, there were big fans, ice water, and free drinks all evening long to keep us cool.
One lucky lady won a dance with Bobby for guessing the composer of Brokenheartsville. Erikc had his singing premier on Fast as You. Jim put him right on the SPOT! Luckily, Bobby and Al whispered the lyrics in his ear. As well, BWIII and Manuel debuted a song by Chicago…inspired by our chit-chat during the previous break. We stood around fantasizing about which 80's rock song Cactus Hill wants to cover or who exactly would do the best Axel Rose...
A friend of the bride sang Blister in the Sun with the Hill. During this song, the stage was paraded with quite a few dancers. We took time to take a group picture with the bride and groom who were dressed in casual attire.
It was a definite summer night in Crete Nebraska. Join us this weekend in Brainard, NE for a street dance….see ya there!!

June 28, 2003
Hallam Street Dance
Hallam, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

It was a quick trip to Hallam, NE. The sun was very hot as we set up in the blazing' heat. Melissa took care of Cactus Hill T-shirt sales on the street. The audience was all over us during every break; we signed a bunch of shirts and hats throughout the night. As well, we gave away autographed beach balls from stage. Jim held the balls and Bobby kicked them into the crowd….teamwork, baby!!!

Jimmy was making a fashion STATEMENT in Hallam. His plain white T-shirt was slit up the front back and sides, just enough to show some skin. He and BW675 both wore wristbands to keep their foreheads sweat-free all evening long. Y'all can pick up your own personal Cactus Hill style wristbands at your local Scheels. XL comes in orange and XS comes in blue.

The doubling semi beds were interesting to play on. AND, there was a big freakin' hole in the bottom of one, on my side of the stage. Chuck put a 2x4 over the top of it; BWIII was steppin' up, gaining a couple inches all night. I'm not gonna lie, I was stepping up on it, too.

E. was sporting his cowboy look with boots and a hat and thankfully not a pair of tight-boy Wranglers. Al was keepin' a smooth groove on the low end. Shane's little girls were dancing the night away in little green dresses. Before the night was over, Manuel and Bobby were laying down on stage, singing together, using the 2x4 as a pillow…?!?

We had so many requests for Beer for my Horses, that we had to play it twice throughout the evening.
We are looking forward to our next street dance. Come check us out in Brainard, NE July 11.

June 19-21, 2003
Nebraskaland Days
North Platte, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Our first evening in North Platte was a kicker for a fun weekend. We handed out Mardi Gras beads to the ladies from stage, polished off our first bottle of Crown and some of us scaled a fence after the show to go swimming…!

Friday afternoon was spent shopping, relaxing, bowling and eating. We returned to find our sound guy had ditched us for the weekend (leaving us with his assistant)…Manuel to the rescue!! Luckily, Manuel is skilled at pretty much everything, including sound. He reconfigured the sound setup. Just when we thought all was good to go, Bobby’s microphone was giving him hell through the entire first set. This was just the beginning of an interesting night for BWIII. After this was resolved, the evening was smooth sailing.
There were dressed-up cow-folks present with spurs and old-time dresses. The excitement began after our final set of the evening. All at once, people were rushing out the back door. As I went to check this out, I realized that Bobbob was outside and enraged! Shane attempted to take a picture of a fight that almost happened (but didn’t) and he dropped my camera. The battery flew out and I thought my pictures were for ruin, but weren’t. After this settled down, the boys made way to the arm-wrestling, rematch table. Jim and Shane took on the expert and bar owner, John Farley, while Manuel and Bobby had a rematch. This was interesting. They were dead-equal at the center and all of a sudden BWIII starts bustin’ out everything he wanted to say earlier in his non-fight. With every word, the hands moved...Manny didn’t have a prayer. After this, we killed lots of shots behind the bar which was graciously opened to us. Eric ended the evening with a brief chair dance.

Saturday afternoon we all went to the swimming pool. This was refreshing for everyone with the exception for Jim; he was still in bed. Next, we had practice and then stuck around for the frozen T-shirt contest. This was interesting; Jim-Bob looked on attentively. Their shirts were frozen stiff and it was a struggle for them to get the shirts apart and on. They were hosed down, thawed out and with numb fingers by the time a gal finally got her shirt on. That evening, we paraded the stage with a new-found cowboy/girl look. A lady celebrated her birthday on stage with Cactus Hill while singing along and dancing. Some friends from Lincoln drove up to have a good time with us and we concluded the evening with breakfast at Perkins.

June 19-21, 2003
Nebraskaland Days
North Platte, NE

By: Jim Campbell

• Three bottles of Crown Royal, $80.00
• Three Nights at the Stanford Inn, $480.00
• Breaking into the Country Inn pool at 2:00 am on Friday, PRICELESS.

Seeing Nobby Williams III get in a fight after the show on Friday, Priceless! There are a few things money can buy, then there’s drinking too much.

You might think I misspelled Bobby’s name. No, Nobby is his new name after he slammed two Nob drinks on Friday night. (NOB: The most potent liquor mixture available, worse than Everclear)

Yeah, Nobby was up to his old self as he got in a scuffle outside the club after Fridays show. He was giving beads to a patron and her boyfriend took offense and it was on like Donkey Kong. All 112 lbs. of Nobby were being held back by club owner, John Farley, as he tried to go after the guy who pushed him down, ruining his white shirt. After words were exchanged, the police came and the scrap was immediately over.

The weekend started off on Thursday with an attempt to shatter the Crown Royal record of 2 ½ bottles consumed previously set the last time out there. To make a long story short, it was broken and it showed late last set on Friday. We learned a lesson that night: no more than 5 shots of Crown for ALDO per night. Sloppy, Sloppy Joe. Manuel usually sees to it that we don’t go overboard with the Crown, but his hair was so long that weekend that he had a hard time seeing our Crown consumption. Thanks, Manny, for being our out-of-town Mommy.

Eric had his turn at singing on Thursday. He did a @#%$ed up rendition of County Fair that only lasted 4 or 5 seconds due to the shattering of glasses at the front and back bar. Oh, by the way, if sweet home sounds like honky tonk women and vice versa, that’s just the way E(eric) plays those songs. I’ve tried to talk to him about that but his phone is usually temporarily disconnected.

Nissa played with no shoes on Saturday. We usually don’t mind as long as they smell good and look good. It just so happened that Manny gave her a complete pedicure the night before in room 38.

Saturday was the parade. Everyone went swimming except for me. I woke up at 2:00 pm with the Crown blues. The frozen t-shirt contest provided some luster as the 6 women were topless trying to get on the frozen t-shirts provided by Budweiser. The winner got $500.00 and a lot of hollers as she was sporting a natural size C bust. We had a blast all weekend and are looking forward to returning next year. Thanks to all North Plattians! Much love from all of CH. Hallam Days is up next, see ya then. PEACE!

June 13, 2003
Haymarket Heydays
Lincoln, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Friday was HOT, and the Haymarket was ROCKIN'. Cactus Hill and High Caliber collaborated in delivering a fun-filled night of entertainment right here in Lincoln, Nebraska. It was so hot that lil' E* looked like he had been running through the sprinkler all afternoon. It was so hot that I almost had a Texas-Sized Heart-Attack!! It was so hot that the Devil(s), the Shaws, appeared on stage with us.

In the early evening everyone was sitting on the hay out in the street and some kids were dancing around by the stage. Later on, the streets were packed and the dance area was jumping. Toward the end of the night, Al, Manuel, Jim and I all got up on stage to do "Sweet Home" with High Caliber; lots of fun!

The evening wound down with an after-hours party of CH and HC members and friends. The party actually wound UP (the hill) after Jim and I started a shot game. We didn't do so good at it and Jason really didn't!

Eric got another new nickname, CHIMICHANGA. If anyone can correctly guess why he got this nickname, he/she will win a new Cactus Hill T-Shirt! Email your guess to cactus_hill@hotmail.com.

We all had a great time, and the morning ended with Jason, Jim and me singing "Salty Dog" (my favorite) and other tunes while playing mandolin and guitar. Stay posted for future Cactus Hill and High Caliber Events!

*E: Eric Reimnitz

June 12, 2003
Angie's BDay Party @ Country Pines
Lincoln , NE

By: Nissa Evenson

We showed up at Country Pines right after it rained. Since it was an outside event, Steve Watts picked out a dry spot for us with a nice, low ceiling. After setting up, we grabbed some grub that was catered in. Everyone enjoyed the food, especially Eric. Let's just say, now we call him MOLE sometimes!!

A brave couple came up to sing with Cactus Hill later on in the evening. They sang "Darlin', Darlin'" (You Never Even Call Me by my Name) and "Runaway" with their own twist. Bob was lookin' good for the girls in Jim's cowboy hat. Low and behold, Shane busted out from behind his drum set for a long-awaited comedy skit. After his prison joke didn't have any takers, he hosted a contest (out of desperation) for the female participants in the crowd. A couple of them won Cactus Hill CDs (which, for all disclaimers, I am not playing fiddle on).

The Hill wished Angie well on her special day with our own rendition of Happy Birthday into "Oh, Angie" (Ritchie Valens’ “Oh, Donna”). All of the dancers of the evening had a good time, and so did we.

May 29-31, 2003
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln , NE

By: Nissa Evenson

April 3-5, 2003
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Bobby Williams III

On to Friday night, personally I got a kick out of Jim's outfit.... It was a nice blend of some Dollar General overalls, some Wall*Mart socks, and a fifth hand Cowboy hat!! You can see all those picks for yourself!!! Al, Manny, Eric, and Shane all said the same thing... (WELCOME BACK SHANE ON "THESE DAYS"!) I would have included Nissa in the above statement, however she was still scratchin' onion out of her teeth! Friday was fairly calm compared to Thurs., but the crowd still danced all night and gave us a lot of compliments! We rock! Oh yeah, before I forget to tell you, "he reved it up, she waved goodbye," come on NOW!!!!!!!!!!!! JNIZEL

Again, please remember, this is my first time doing the Diary so be kind! (Note from the editor: This might be the last one too...) Saturday was crazy - Jersey Night!! For those of you that were there you saw the "Redskins" jersey on Nissa....If you weren't there you missed out!!!!!!! I bailed Eric out with a jersey, Jimmy sported the Tennessee jersey, Manny and Eric had on the Huskers stuff. Al ( BIG AL) had this jersey for a guy I never heared of, and it fit like a glove! (Note from the editor: a latex glove) I was wearin' the authentic "BOBBOB" #1 Jersey Jose Jefferson made that for me when the Lincoln Lightning were still around... Shane chose not to wear a jersey so Jim took tape and made a #3 on his white shirt - it looked sweet!!!!!!!!!!!

Once again, thanks to Ron and Bonnie, 96KX and the rest of the Cactus Hill Band!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BW3 OUT!

Sit-in drummer Tony "The Tiger" Hillhouse of Hillhouse Body Art made the Guitars experience a well remembered one. He filled in splendedly for part-timer Shane Mason. Shane had a playhouse gig in Lincoln and was unavailable for the show.

Tony used his questionable beat meter as a guide as he tried to quiet the other members of saying, "slow down" or "speed up." It worked rather well with the exception of two songs, Brokenheartsville and Blister in the Sun. How can you tell one of the best drummers around that his electronic meter is off? You can't!

We signed the wall in the dressing room right along side other Guitars performers - the Dixie Chicks, Nelle and St. Lunatics, Little River Band, and Tone Loc just to name a few.

We were entertained by a male stripper during one of our breaks. He was half-naked as he performed for one of the Guitars patrons. It was a birthday surprise. BW3 was really anxious to take pictures of this guy's naked body but we told him not to. Things that make you go "HMM"!

The road back home was slick due to an ice storm. We drove 40 mph the whole way back to Lincoln. Tony "TNT" Hillhouse will play with the Hill One More Time on Thursday at Coyote Willy's. Make sure you come and have a shot with us. Nissa will be back after a week on the injured reserve. It will be pleasant to see her pretty smile as she is fresh off her trip to Ohio. Bring your salt shakers my friends. It may be a salty weekend.

March 27, 2003
Coyote Willy's
Lincoln, NE

By: Jim Campbell

BDUB3 once again showed off his white elf shoes. When you’re 5'5" you have a tendency to wear bigger-than-you-need apparel just to have a bigger appearance. This holds true for BWILL. He wears XL shirts when he should wear XS. He wears XXL hats… well the hats fit him cuz he does have a larger than normal cranium. His shoes are 2-3 sizes too big. After wearing the shoes for a month or so they’ll curl up at the toes. This is because there is two inches where there is no flesh to keep the toe end flush with the surface he’s walking on. Now, when the shoes are bleach white, they stand out like Manuel in a crowd of white folk. If he was green we’d send him to the south pole to work with Santa Claus. White tennies with dress clothes? NOT HAPPENIN'!

If BNAGR is wearing his white size-12 boats at Coyote Willy’s, will someone give him a hard time, please?

March 14-15, 2003
Country Rose
North Platte, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

A two-day extravaganza of the new, complete Cactus Hill personnel was in effect in North Platte (Eric, Bobby and myself as the new). There were many dancers, arm-wrestlers, cowboys and cowgirls at the Country Rose bar.

We arrived in North Platte on Friday and began our tedious sound check around 6:30. Bobby's monitor was not cooperating. I think the sound guy spent 20 minutes trying to please him. When all was said and done, the evening's music was sounding pretty good. It was Al and Melissa's one-year anniversary (as a couple very much in love). The bar was handing out lots of Miller Lite paraphernalia such as t-shirts and hats.

We stayed the night at a local motel. Jim-Bob* had to move to a different room upon arrival. After hearing some loud moans coming from a couple doors down, from Jim-Bob, I had to check it out for myself. I took one step in their room and it smelled like somebody died in there. It wasn't quite a far-side suite, but close enough in the breathable air department. Apparently there was a family living there for 10 months and they just moved out. Needless to say, their new room was much more pleasant.

Saturday was a lazy day. Saturday night was not. Every man wore sunglasses on stage for our first set. A nice man gave Melissa, Stephanie and me big Easter Bunny stuffed animals. I was excited to receive this early Easter gift. Later on, we headed over to the arm-wrestling table. Manuel and Bobby settled their score. Jim kicked some ass the day before and Shane proved that his recent time in the gym was paying off. I decided to take on BW3**; obviously we all know how that turned out.

After the wrestling, we headed back on stage for our final set. A couple of brave dudes got up on stage with us for Blister in the Sun. They survived okay until the music stopped in the middle. I had never seen a grown man belt out "Let me go on" quite like that before. After the show, we got together for a wild party in our rooms…or maybe it wasn't wild but I'm going to pretend like it was.

The End.

*Note from the editor: Due to the deep mental, emotional and behavioral connection between Jim Campbell and Bob Williams III (this resulting in a rather unique merging of personalities), such individuals, when in collection, may sporadically be referred to as Jim-Bob.
** Bob Williams III

March 7, 2003
Guitars & Cadillacs
Omaha, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

Feb 27 to Mar 2, 2003
Isle of Capri Casino
Marquette, IA

By: Nissa Evenson

February 16, 2003
Camp Rulo
Rulo, NE

By: Nissa Evenson

January 30, 2003
Pershing Auditorium
Lincoln, NE

By: Jim Campbell

Finally at 5:30pm, CDJ finishes her two hour rehearsal and we bum-rush the stage. We need about twenty channels for our show, we are notified that we get only 13. Who will suffer the loss? We quickly make a decision that we’ll use only one guitar instead of two, three mics instead of four, mic only the kick drum and the snare leaving the last channel for the overhead on the drums. Not the best but it has to do. Right about this time I’m figuring that we’ll sound like crap and the Pershing crowd will hear the result of a 20 minute sound check. We finally get everything set up and we’re ready to run a quick song. It’s now 6:10pm and the doors outside of Pershing are still closed waiting for us to finish. We get about 2 minutes into our song and they open the doors, people are starting to file in. We are doing a song and the people are starting to fill their seats. How embarrassing! We get done at 6:15pm and amongst the cheers from the early arrivals, we head to our dressing room. Our dressing room is overloaded with Crown Royal, our preferred drink. We make last second changes to our show, do a few shots and then relax before our 7:00pm show-time. Me and BW III (Bobby Williams the 3rd, our new vocalist) are practicing harmonies. Keith is changing his pants in front of Nissa. Al is drinking crown like a champion. Manny is taking pictures. Shane is thinking WOW, Al sure likes his Crown Royal. We take a group picture and the stage manager says it’s show-time. We as a unit, go down to the stage, get introduced by Ritch Cassidy and hit the stage for what surprisingly was one of our best shows in quite some time. The Pershing faithful was cheering loud from beginning to end. The spotlights that followed my every move were brighter than a 50,000 watt halogen. I felt as if I committed a crime and was fleeing on foot in the dark from two or three police helicopters hovering above. Nissa impressed the crowd in her first show with CH. BWIII got the jitters out and provided solid harmonies. We all came together and received rave reviews about our performance. The sound was awesome, our stage show was top notch, and after a dismal sound check we let the fans know why there ain’t no party like a Cactus Hill party. We believe we showed everyone why CH is the #1 rated band by the listeners of 96KX.

I’ve enjoyed being the interim Tour Diary writer. This is my last entry as we turn this job over to Nissa Evenson. Make sure you reply to her diary by emailing us at cactus_hill@hotmail.com.

January 25, 2003
Sale Barn
Fremont, NE

By: Jim Campbell

3 years ago we had an off-the-hook wet T-shirt contest in Fremont that still raises questions today. It seems whenever we play in the great northwest we get into some kind of trouble. This time nothing as serious as me and Alan’s head-on collision in April 2001, but we managed to get stopped for speeding near Wahoo. Al’s pretty looks allowed us to only get a warning. The Nick Svoboda song was the highlight of the weekend. Dave’s rendition can be heard on our 4th upcoming LP entitled, “Songs about people who run EIGHT can-light shows.” Get your copy at Homers or Pickles. See ya at Pershing, mates!

The rest of the week went great. Saturday the doors were closed due to over-capacity. Four bands teed it up with CCR (Cross Canadian Ragweed) closing the Show.

I guess I liked CCR, it was the first time that I actually bought a shirt from another band. Everyone came together and put on a great show, with great friends and expensive scotch that Uncle Ron hand-delivered to the CCR bassist. Now it’s off to Fremont for the first time in over two years. I will leave my umbrella at home this time. The leak above the stage has apparently been fixed. See ya there.

Nissa was hired on Monday to replace original CH fiddle player, David Lee Wilson. Dave will continue to play our shows until Nissa is ready to take over the helm. We are shooting for a February 1st start date for Nissa.

This weekend will mark our first appearance in Lincoln in over a month. The band is excited to unleash some new material as we play with Texas notables, Cross Canadian Ragweed, and Jason Boland and the Stragglers on Saturday.

See you at Coyote's!

January 3, 2003
By: Jim Campbell

Because Dave Wilson is no longer a full time member of the HILL, I was given the interim job of writing the tour diary. This will only last until we give this special assignment to another member. Stay posted on that! 2003 is off to a special start as we hold our audition process for a new fiddle player. We will make the final decision on Sunday January 5th. Their start date will probably be February 1st. We have two talented female fiddle chicks, if you will, that are auditioning for the vacancy left by OG Dave Wilson. This is our first scheduled rehearsal/audition of the New Year. We have changed our rehearsal format for 2003. We will be rehearsing the first Sunday of every month from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. As usual, our rehearsals are open to the public, so stop by and see what material we’re working on.

You might get to see the Cactus Hill celebrity DEATH MATCH between Shane “BAD VIBE” Mason and Manuel “SALT FATHER” de la Torre. This match will pit two veterans as they clash for the “WHO’S RIGHT ON TEMPO” trophy. Don’t miss it. You think our shows are fun... wait until you see our rehearsals. They can be as entertaining as Tom Hanks in the movie BIG.

On a more serious note, we would like to wish everyone a great 2003. Be prepared as CH kicks it in overdrive this year.

James Marcus Campbell VI