Bushwhacker Days

Gabby Gire performs during the Texaco Country Showdown June 10 at Bushwhacker Days on the south side of the Square, where 1,000 people watched from Cherry Street and the courthouse lawn. She advanced to regional competition.

Rick Shulze does the song "Unwound," which was George Strait's first hit, during the Texaco County Showdown June 10 at Bushwhacker Days downtown. He was one of 12 contestants.

Marlene Scotten of Nevada sings her song, "Scattered Pictures," about the May 22 tornado at Joplin, before a large crowd during Bushwhacker Days' "Local Legends" show June 9. Accompanying her is Matt Harper.

A line of red vehicles glinting in the sunshine gave the north side of the Square a stylish look June 11 during Bushwhacker Days, which attracted numerous vintage cars and trucks to the 47th annual celebration.

Downtown Nevada was a kaleidoscope of colors June 11, here blending yellows with white, blue, green and red, for the finale of Bushwhacker Days as vintage car and pickup owners arrayed their vehicles around the Square. (James R. Campbell)

To the music of "Supernova," belly dancers Marlene Hiestand, left, Shawn Hiestand and Christen Diehl entertain during the Bushwhacker Days Local Legends Show. They are the students of Diane Thompson of Fort Scott.

Scott Theis sings and plays "Never Ending," a song he had written, during the Texaco Country Showdown.

The "On My Own" tent was a popular stop for people at Bushwhacker Days. The non-profit organization promotes and facilitates independent living in Vernon, Henry, St. Clair, Cedar and Bates counties.

Tori Dahmer performs during her bid to advance to regional competition in the Texaco County Showdown talent contest.

The Osage River Bluegrass Group from Schell City performs in the Bushwhacker Days Local Legends Show. From left are Kayly Kunkel, Grace Crawford, Shelby Kunkel, Leah Ijams, Erika Coleman, Hayley Kunkel, Rylee Kunkel and Jackson Coleman.

People rise with their hands over their hearts for the singing of the National Anthem during Bushwhacker Days.

Escape artist Mario Manzini introduces himself to the Bushwhacker Days audience.