JULY 13, 2010
BK LOUNGE

Despite a hot evening, the crowd was near capacity and very enthusiastic as the band took their places last night. It was good to see so many new faces and all of the old ones again. The band especially appreciates all the people that return week after week to listen to them and enjoy the company of friends.

Be sure to join us Thursday, July 15 for the Grinter Barn Jamboree. The ladies are going to serve Taco Salad and our special guest will be Fred Uzell from Annie's Jubilee in Tonganoxie KS. Fred is the Dobro and Steel Guitar player at the Jubilee every Saturday night.

Once again we are reprinting the text below from MO-KAN Opry. Thanks to Roger and Jean Hawkins. They do it so much better than I could.

Like everyone else. we sometimes take things for granted but we took a moment this evening to reflect on how lucky we were to have a place like this to escape Tuesday evening's searing heat and walk into the air-conditioned comfort of the BK, visit briefly with old friends and to sit back, relax and be entertained for the next 2-1/2 hours by this great little band who plays the kind of music we love the most -- good ole down-home traditional country music! Some years ago when John & Mary Pettersch invited us to stop by some Tuesday night and check things out, we had no idea as to the extent this relationship would nurture and grow nor even a hint as to the friendships and alliances that would develop in time. We don't miss many Tuesday nights if we can help it and we consider it both a pleasure and a privledge each and every time we attend.

Larry Dean kicked off tonight's session with a great Travis Tritt number "I'm A Member Of A Country Club," Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler" and a favorite George Jones song "If Drinking Don't Kill Me (Your Memory Will)." Larry returned later with the sidesplitting Brad Paisley hit "Ode De Toilet" (The Toilet Song). We swear David Purcell sounds better each and every time we hear him. Tonight he did a beautiful job on Keith Whitley's "When Each Tear You Cry Becomes A Rose," "There Will Always Be That One" and Willie's "Remember Me." Returning later, it was George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away," "I Wonder How Many There Would Be" (a song written by Dave's late father) and "You're A Once In A Lifetime Thing." Master lead guitarist Gordon Riley and the rest of the band including drummer extraordinare John Malone jumped back in time a bit to do an old Chet Atkins number "Spinning Wheel" and a bit later stirred up the dancers with the "Pennslyvania Polka." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier who plays fiddle every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee and incidently was once one of Hank Thompson's Brazos Valley Boys got the fingers poppin' and the feet shufflin' as he played Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues," "Down Yonder" for BK employee Julio - "I Love My Rancho Grande" and a special request (guess who?) "Ragtime Annie!" Mary Bichelmeyer used her soft, melodious voice tonight to sing "Tears On My Pillow," Patsy Cline's "I Fall To Pieces" and "I'm Blue Again" while multi-talented husband Garry Bichelmeyer got a big ovation as he sang "Kansas City," a song he just recently finished writing entitled "Losing You" and Johnny Cash's "Ring Of Fire."

Annie Little was on hand this evening and got a hand as she sang "Let Me Be There" and Johnny Cash's "Remember Me I'm The One Who Loves You" while Scott Gilmore got the line dancers moving shortly before break with "Johnny B. Goode." Bill McFalt also popped in to sing a great oldie, "I Overlooked An Orchid" and Ron Fine, who we love to hear sing these great old country standards did an incredible job with "Now And Then There's A Fool Such As I," the Waylon/Jesse classsic "Storms Never Last" and closed tonight's festivities with the Hank Williams gospel number "House Of Gold." (Below) Ron Fine entertains the crowd with another classic number



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JULY 6, 2010
BK LOUNGE

After missing last week's show at the BK Lounge, it seems I am having trouble catching up on things. We had a good enthusiastic crowd as usual at the Lounge. Everyone was in the mood for good country music as the band stepped to the stage.

The below reprinted from MO-KAN Opry.com with the permission of Roger and Jean Hawkins. Thanks again Jean and Roger

A big crowd was on hand once again as David Purcell began tonight's festivities with a Buck Owen's favorite "Together Again" followed by "Help Me Make It Through The Night." A bit later, David returned to sing a Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "Northern Star," a Willie sound-alike of "Blue Eyes Cryin In The Rain," "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away" and Merle Haggard's "It's Not Love But It's Not Bad." Multi-talented Gary Bichelmeyer himself was up next with Gene Watson's "Paper Rosie," Johnny Cash's "Sunday Morning Coming Down," "Kansas City" and somewhat later a brand-new song he recently composed about one of Nashville's landmarks, "Blue Bird Cafe." Gordon Riley, the group's great lead guitarist and the rest of the band including drummer John Malone got the feet shufflin' with "Sitting On Top Of The World" before Gordon returned to sing "Red Necks, White Socks & Blue Ribbon Beer. Mary Bichelmeyer used her smooth, velvety voice to sing a couple of crowd favorites herself tonight with "Tennessee Waltz" and "House Of The Rising Sun." We missed Larry Dean the first half tonight, but he opened the second half with Travis Tritt's "Living On Borrowed Time" and Alan Jackson's "I'm A Little Bluer Than That." Good stuff!

Annie Little always sings a great song and tonight she delighted the folks with "Just In Case," "Precious Lord Take My Hand," "Let's All Go Down To The River" and another Garry B. song, "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind" before Scott Gilmore excited the line dancers as he stepped behind the mike to sing "Johnny B. Goode." We were so glad to see Sandy Davidson who used to own and operate the Paola (KS) Opry drop in with friend Chuck Parcher tonight and sure enjoyed hearing Sandy sing "Let Me Be There," Bill Anderson's "Once A Day," "Silver Threads & Golden Needles" and Connie Smith's "Baptism Of Jesse Taylor." Chuck showed he's certainly no slouch behind the mike as well singing Ray Price's "Crazy Arms," Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings" and closing the festivities tonight with "Don't You Ever Get Tired Of Hurting Me." (Below) Sandy Davidson & Chuck Parcher visit with us after tonight's session



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JULY 4, 2010
AMERICAN LEGION

The food was already being served when we arrived at the American Legion Hall to begin setting up for our 3:00PM show. There was a grill going on the patio and the hamburgers and hotdogs were rolling off. Some of us were tempted to skip the sound check and get some of the wonderful smelling food instead.

At 3:00PM a capacity crowd filled the large hall. As soon as the music started the floor filled with dancers. For the next 3 or 4 hours the large, enthusiastic group danced and ate to their hearts content. I don't know if they enjoyed the food or the music most. I know the band really enjoyed the wonderful response they got for their efforts on this Sunday afternoon.

The band was in fine form; performing country and rock & roll songs steadily. We were without our fiddle player who could not join us because of a previous engagement in Illinois. He was ably replaced by Kurt Shoemaker, a fantastic steel guitar player who hails from Ionia Kansas. Kurt has played steel guitar in country music star Martina McBride's band. He is also a frequent Nashville recording session participant. It was a great pleasure and honor to have this outstanding musician join us.

We certainly look forward to another show at the American Legion located at 7500 West 75th Street in Overland Park Ks. Please watch this web site for announcements
regarding upcoming Stranger Creek Band shows. Also, join us every Tuesday evening at 6:30 at the BK (Burger King) Lounge located at 95th and Quivira in Lenexa Kansas.

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JUNE 29, 2010
BK LOUNGE

Due to a death in my family I will be out of town and miss tonights performance at the BK Lounge.

I am attaching the flyer below.



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JUNE 22, 2010
BK LOUNGE
OH My! It was so hot as we prepared for tonight's show at the BK Lounge. What started out as a sparse crowd grew to be a fine group by showtime at 6:30 PM.

It was especially good to see Roger and Jean Hawkins come in. Roger has been having some health issues the last couple of weeks but reports he is doing OK now. While we are on the subject of health issues, let's all keep Sharon Miller in our thoughts and prayers. We understand she underwent a hip replacement on Tuesday and will be hospitalized for a few days.

The band will leave Thursday morning to go to the Wahoo Country Music show in Wahoo Nebraska. They will appear a total of 5 times Friday, Saturday and Sunday along with over 250 country music acts. That should be a fantastic festival. Wahoo is about 45 miles northwest of Lincoln if you are inclined to travel a few miles for some outstanding country music the band would be happy to see some regular fans follow them up there.

It was so good to see Roger & Jean Hawkins back and the article below is reprinted with their permission from MO-KAN Opry.com. Many thanks to them for their generosity!

Due to some health issues, we hadn't been able to make it to our usual Tuesday night haunt --- the B.K. Lounge for a couple of weeks and we really have missed the great music and all the friendly faces. Nevertheless, tonight found us at our usual spot, awaiting the start of tonight's festivities.

None other than Garry Bichelmeyer, one of this area's finest songwriters and a super entertainer in his own right, kicked the program off with "Kansas City" (he did such an excellent job, someone asked him to repeat it the second half), "Catch A Falling Star." Billy Currington's "People Are Crazy," Cash's "Ring Of Fire" and a great job of Chris LeDoux's "Night Rider's Lament." It's always a pleasure to see and watch David Purcell perform and tonight he sang George Strait's "This Is Where The Cowboy Rides Away," a beautiful Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "Northern Star" and returned a bit later with Willie's "Remember Me," "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "You're A Once In A Lifetime Thing." Art Covey's mandolin playing and singing were top-notch as well tonight as Art chose an old Darrell McCall tune "There's Still A Lot Of Love In San Antone" to begin with and then it was Anne Murray's "Could I Have This Dance," "Deep Water" and the pretty "Kentucky Waltz." Gordon Riley and the band, including John Malone behind the drums, got the feet shuffling out on the dance floor as they played the ever popular "Honky Tonk" followed by "Sugar Foot Rag." Gordon returned later to play and sing "9 Lb. Hammer" Merle Travis style.

Our friend, "Mighty" Marvin Bredemeier, who we're sure most people are aware of, plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee each and every Saturday night, decided tonight to welcome us back, playing our favorite fiddle tune, "Ragtime Annie," but with a little twist. Somewhere near the middle of this tune, Marv broke out an instrument we later learned was called a banjo-uke and played a few bars to the delight of the audience. Marvin recalled that his family owned one of these instruments which dates back to the 1930's and he was able to find one listed in excellent condition on e-bay. Marvin also chose another old fiddle tune, "Red Wing" before singing and playing a Merle Travis signature song "Smoke, Smoke, Smoke That Cigarette" and the "Orange Blossom Special," to the delight of the linedancers. We love to listen to Larry Dean roll out one unforgettable standard after another - he has such a super voice - and tonight it was Delbert McClinton's "Back To Louisiana," "Stagger Lee," a tune recorded by many artists (we like Ricky Van Shelton's) "From A Jack To A King" and Don Williams' "Living On Tulsa Time." Mary Bichelmeyer, the group's bass player used her extraordinary soft, mellow voice tonight to sing Loretta Lynn's "Blue Kentucky Girl," Patsy Cline's "Walking After Midnight," Kathy Mattea's "Walk The Way The Wind Blows" and Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do." Lots of "cheek to cheek" material here!

It was also great seeing a walk-on participating tonight as well. Bill McFall from Independence, MO was in the audience and stepped front and center to do a bang-up job singing Jack Greene's "There Goes My Everything" and Carl Smith's "If Teardrops Were Pennies." Larry Dean closed tonight's entertainment with "Old Time Rock 'N Roll." (Below) top- Marvin Bredemeier with his banjo-uke bottom - Visitor Bill McFall from Independence, MO





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JUNE 17, 2010
GRINTER BARN JAMBOREE

We had a nice crowd gather in the pleasant air conditioned Grinter Barn and the main topic of conversation was how hot it was outside. The ladies served a wonderful plate of chicken strips, Au gratin potatoes and baked beans to everyone.

The band took their place at 6:30 and the show got started. We heard a good mix of music along with some new songs that I had never heard them perform before. Annie Little joined us for a couple of songs and as usual was really well received.

Next weekend the band will journey to Wahoo Nebraska for a 4 day music festival where they will appear 5 times in 3 days (Friday, Saturday & Sunday). There will be approximately 250 music acts performing over the weekend. You will see plenty of good musicians if you decide to travel up and join them.

July 15 we will be back at Grinter for our monthly show. The ladies will serve Taco Salad with coffee or iced tea. Be sure to come on out. Dinner and show is only $8.00.

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APRIL 15, 2010
BK LOUNGE

It was such a nice evening that we began to wonder if more than a few fans would come to our regular Tuesday night show. But in the final minutes before start time, the people began to file steadily in. By the time we got going, we had a nice turnout. There were not many empty seats left when everyone was there. We saw several new faces as we looked around the floor.

We did have a new experience; Mary Bichelmeyer had to leave for awhile so Mighty Marvin Bredemeier very ably took over her duties playing bass for several songs.

It's always good to see Calvin Coolidge and he was in fine form last night. He lives in the country now and that always gives him a lot of stories for his visits with us. I used to live in the country and didn't know how much fun I was having until I listened to Calvin for awhile.

We will be performing at the Grinter Barn this Thursday, June 17. A dinner of chicken strips and Au gratin potatoes with baked beans will be served beginning at 6:00PM and the music will start at 6:30.

The following weekend the band will travel to Wahoo Nebraska about 45 miles northwest of Lincoln. They will appear 5 time in 3 days along with 250 other country music acts at the WAHOO COUNTRY MUSIC SHOW. There will be 5 stages and air conditioned buildings so take a little drive and come on up and see us.

July 4, we will go back to the American Legion at 7500 West 75th St in Overland Park. We will play from 2:00 to 5:00PM in the afternoon. We were there last Sunday and received a wonderful reception and look forward to returning.

July 9, the band will help celebrate De Soto days at Riverfront Park in De Soto KS from 8:00 to 10:00PM.

A future engagement we have planned will be September 9, 10 & 11 at the 2010 Miles of Memories Country Music Fest in Hastings Nebraska. Make plans to see them along with many other acts in Hastings.

We will look forward to seeing you at the Grinter Barn Thursday and back at the BK Lounge on Tuesday.

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JUNE 13, 2010
AMERICAN LEGION

Yesterday, the Stranger Creek Band put on a show at the American Legion Hall at 7500
West 75th St in Overland Park, KS.

We were pleased to have a near capacity crowd to play for. Between a many of our faithful followers and a great group of the American Legion members the hall was nearly full. The dance floor was nearly full for the entire 3 hour show. The band consisted of regulars; Gordon Riley - lead guitar & vocals, Marvin Bredemeier - fiddle, John Malone - drums, Mary Bichelmeyer - bass & vocals, Garry bichelmeyer - rhythm guitar and vocals and Larry Dean - rhythm guitar & lead vocals.

We certainly appreciated the great reception received from the Legion. At the end of the show the band was highly complimented and invited back to play on Sunday, July 4 from 2:00PM to 5:00PM. Please be sure to join us then.

This week on Tuesday we will be back at the BK Lounge. Thursday we will have the monthly show at the Grinter Barn where the ladies will serve a dinner of Chicken strips with Au gratin potatoes and baked beans. Dinner will be served at 6:00PM and the music begins at 6:30.

If you are inclined to travel a little bit to see good music; drive on up about 45 miles northwest of Lincoln Nebraska. The Stranger Creek Band will be at the WAHOO COUNTRY MUSIC SHOW in Wahoo Nebraska for a scheduled 5 appearances in 3 days (Friday, Saturday & Sunday). There will be more than 250 music acts appearing on five stages. Three air conditioned buildings and lots of jamming outdoors.

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JUNE 8, 2010
BK LOUNGE

In spite of a very wet and stormy beginning, there was a good turnout at the BK Lounge last night.

It was good to see and hear Ron Fine again. It had been too long since he last joined us. In addition we heard a great selection of great music from Gordon Riley, Marvin Bredemeier, Larry Dean, Garry and Mary Bichelmeyer. Dave Purcell and Art Covey filled out an outstanding show. We mustn't forget drummer John Malone; Besides being an outstanding drummer, John manages to keep the band on their toes during most shows. Last night was certainly no exception.

We missed two of our regulars in the audience; Roger and Jean Hawkins were not there last night so I have no record of the names of songs the band performed.

We have some exciting times coming up:

Saturday June 12, the Stranger Creek Band will perform at Tonganoxie Days from 11:30AM until 1:00PM in front of the bank on Main Street in Tonganoxie, KS

Then on Sunday, June 13 we will be playing at the American Legion Hall,7500 West 75 in Overland Park from 4:00PM until ??.

Thursday, June 17; we will be back at the Grinter Barn where the ladies will serve Chicken Strips with au Gratin Potatoes and Baked Beans beginning at 6:00PM. Music and dancing will follow from 6:30PM to 9:00PM. Dinner and show are only $8.00

Of course you can catch us every Tuesday at 6:30PM at the BK Lounge (also known as the Burger King at 95th and Quivira in Lenexa KS).

I hope you all make it a point to come to one or all of these shows and watch this web site for information on additional places to see the Stranger Creek Band that wiil be announced soon!

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JUNE 1, 2010
BK LOUNGE

THE ENTIRE BLOG AND PHOTO BELOW WERE REPRINTED FROM MO-KAN OPRY.COM WITH THE PERMISSION OF ROGER & JEAN HAWKINS.

We noticed that several couples who regularly attend the Tuesday evening gathering at the BK had taken advantage of the long holiday weekend and had just gone ahead and taken their vacations at this time as well. However, we saw several new faces in the throng tonight and it didn't seem to affect the number of attendees at all. We were a little late arriving tonight, but due to some technical difficulties with the equipment, the band was just a tad late in starting, so things actually worked out beautifully. Shortly after the band had warmed up in it's normal fashion, playing a Gordon Riley original composition, "Gordon's Boogie," emcee Larry Dean welcomed everyone to tonight's curriculum, singing "Congratulations!," Mark Chesnutt's "Too Cold At Home" and Jimmy Rodger's "California Blues." Larry was to return later with "Old Time Rock & Roll" and Eddy Arnold's "Room Full Of Roses" to the crowd's obvious delight.

Gordon Riley and the rest of the band, including drummer extraordinare John Malone played some great numbers here tonight and had the dance floor full as they took off on the "Beer Barrel Polka," "Harbor Lights" and "Honky Tonk." Returning the second half, Gordon led them in "9 Lb. Hammer," Merle Travis style and "Wheels." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier who almost everyone knows, plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday, got a big ovation as he played "The Anniversary Waltz" and "Devil's Dream." He got an even bigger hand when he returned after break to sing and play a Merle Travis number of his own, "Smoke Smoke Smoke That Cigarette" and "In My Adobe Hacienda." Mary Bichelmeyer sounded just marvelous herself tonight, singing "I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You," Pam Tillis' "Don't Tell Me What To Do," Jeannie Pruitt's "Satin Sheets" and a super duet with husband Garry of Juice Newton's "Black Coffee." Speaking of Garry Bichelmeyer, he did an incredible job here tonight as well, singing first a self-written number, "Northern Star," then it was a Tom T. Hall creation, "The Year That Clayton Delaney Died" and a duet with Larry Dean of the Soggy Bottom Boys' "In The Jailhouse Now."

It's always a treat to see and hear Art Covey play his mandolin and sing. Tonight he picked some of our favorites: "Rebel Soldier," "Fallen Leaves" and an Alan Jackson gospel number, "I Want To Stroll Across Heaven With You." Scott Gilmore and his cute-as-a-button little daughter Kylie got the dancers moving as they sang "Boot Scootin Boogie" and Art returned to close tonight's program with "Will The Circle Be Unbroken."

(Below) Larry Dean sings another crowd favorite



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TUESDAY MAY 25, 2010
BK LOUNGE

The crowd that gathered at the BK LOUNGE on this hot Tuesday evening were in for more than one treat. In addition to an evening filled with outstanding music; during the intermission pieces of a wonderful Birthday cake were passed out to those present. At the same time, from the other side of the room, pieces of a beautiful
50th Wedding anniversary cake were being passed out. We certainly want to extend our congratulations to Laurence and Barb Keltner on their 50 years of marriage. I am sorry but I never did learn who the birthday person was but hope they had a very Happy Birthday!

Our thanks to Roger & Jean of MO-KAN OPRY.com for their song by song description of the program that follows

It was a scorcher out there today and it really felt good as we stepped through the door to the air conditioned comfort of the BK and heard the familiar strains of "Gordon's Boogie #1," a sure sign the festivities were about to start. We just found our seats and settled in a bit when Marvin Bredemeier on fiddle, Gordon Riley on lead, John Malone on drums and the rest of the band took off on the Bob Wills' classic "San Antonio Rose" with Larry Dean doing a great job on the vocals. Larry also did a great job next with a Travis Tritt number, "Living On Borrowed Time," "Bonaparte's Retreat" and somewhat later returned with Waylon Jennings' "I May Be Used" and the "Farmer Blues." Gordon and the band played some great instrumentals as well here tonight with "Panhandle Rag," "Steel Guitar Rag" and a crowd favorite, "Back Home Again In Indiana."

Our friend Marvin, who of course is the regular fiddle player at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday night, gave the folks a real treat tonight as he played the old fiddle tune "Soldier's Joy" and "Ragtime Annie" (Marvin wants it noted that he played this for Annie Little who will be on vacation for the next 3 weeks). Mary Bichelmeyer, the group's bass player, did an outstanding job tonight singing Skeeter Davis' "The End Of The World," Patsy Cline's "Crazy Dreams," "Sweet Dreams" and Terri Gibbs' "Somebody's Knocking." Husband Garry Bichelmeyer, who is not only a great performer but a super songwriter as well got a big hand as he sang Hank Sr.'s "You Win Again," Ray Price's "Are You Sure (This Is Where You Want To Be)," another Hank Williams number for a couple celebrating their 50th anniversary "Wedding Bells" and a 50's tune made famous by Ben E. King, "Stand By Me." It's always a pleasure to see and hear our pal Dave Purcell perform -- he sings a great song! Dave chose George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away" to begin with and followed it with Dwight Yoakam's "Streets Of Bakersfield." Dave returned later with a couple of Willie songs: "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and "Remember Me," the latter which he sent out to us. Thanks for the thought, Dave! What a pleasure it was to see Art Covey drop in with his mandolin and great singing voice! Art sang our favorite Darrell McCall song, "There's Still A Lot Of Love In San Antone" and "Missing You," a number he wrote while sitting in his front yard one evening and thinking of his grandson who was serving his second tour in Iraq and how his wife must be feeling. What a great motivation for a song!

Jerome Oberle brought his accordian along tonight and got the feet shufflin, the hands clappin and the dancers boogying as he joined the band to play "In The Good Old Summertime," "Beer Barrell Polka" and the "Pennslyvania Polka." Fun stuff!! Annie Little, although she'll be gone for the next three weeks, left us a little something to remember her by, singing a Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "I Must Have Been Out Of My Mind" and "Just In Case You Change Your Mind." Safe trip, Annie! Art Covey closed the evening's festivities with "Will The Circle Be Unbroken."

(Below) top - Jerome Oberle & Marvin Bredemeier and the band play "The Beer Barrell Polka" bottom - Dave Purcell sings "Remember Me"





Thanks to Roger & Jean Hawkins of MO_KAN OPRY.com for their permission to reprint the above from their column.
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MAY 20, 2010
GRINTER BARN JAMBOREE

It was rainy and cold as we started to set-up the equipment for the jamboree and we thought it would be a small crowd tonight. But as time for the delicious Lasagna prepared by the ladies of "Friends of Grinter" to be served drew near the crowd began to grow. By the time everyone had eaten and the band was on stage, we had a large group of brave souls present.

The band was in fine form as usual and the dance floor was full. We certainly have a nice group of good dancers come out for all of our shows. I am not able to name all of the songs performed by these talented musicians but they always come up with a nice mix of good music. The fans also know requests are welcome usually someone in the band knows almost any song asked for.

We will be back at the Grinter Barn next on June 17. We hope you all join us next Tuesday at the BK Lounge and on June 13 at the American Legion located at 7500 West 75 Street in Overland Park. We will be there at 2:00PM.

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May 18, 2010
BK LOUNGE

It is truly amazing to me the great fans the Stranger Creek Band draws to the BK Lounge every Tuesday. It seems the weather or nothing else matters, we always enjoy a capacity or near capacity crowd. A large majority of them are there each and every week eagerly waiting for Gordon to make that first strike on the guitar string to get things going. I don't know if anyone notices but the larger and more enthusiastic the fans, the harder the band works to please.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Jean and Roger Hawkins of MO-KAN OPRY.com for their generosity in allowing me to use their material in this blog. Their accuracy in listing not only the titles of songs performed but to also list the original artist that recorded it is amazing to say the least! I am the first to admit it is way beyond my capability to do that.

With a clear, sunny day instead of the rainy, overcast conditions we've been experiencing, a bigger than normal crowd decended on the BK this evening and the place was pretty well packed by the time Larry Dean and the band struck up the first chords of Merle Haggard's "Big City." Next up was George Strait's "Does Ft. Worth Ever Cross Your Mind" and somewhat later Larry returned to sing "Ramblin Fever" and Lefty Frizzell's "Always Late With Your Kisses."

One of the finest lead guitar players we know, Gordon Riley along with the rest of the band including drummer John Malone played the ever-popular "Under The Double Eagle," picked and sang the Hank Thompson classic "Six-Pack To Go" and Elvis' "Big Boss Man." Later was the self-penned "Gordon's Boogie #1 and "Harbor Lights." "Marvelous" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays fiddle every Saturday evening at Annie's Country Jubilee in Tonganoxie was kind enough to play our favorite fiddle tune, "Ragtime Annie" for us this evening as well as the beautiful "Maiden's Prayer, Bob Wills' "Milk Cow Blues" and "Red Wing." Great stuff!! Mary Bichelmeyer sounded super this evening as she kept up the beat on that bass guitar and sang Highway 101's "Walkin Talkin Cryin Barely Beatin Broken Heart," "You Belong To Me," Kathy Mattea's "Walk The Way The Wind Blows" and "Oh Lonesome Me." Husband Garry Bichelmeyer, on the other hand decided to test everyone's memory with an oldie but goodie - "The Ballad Of Jed Clampett" (Beverly Hillbillies, etc.), Johnny Russell's "Catfish John" and later teamed with Larry Dean for the Soggy Bottom Boys' rendition of "In The Jailhouse Now" and then it was Garry with "Stand By Me" and one of his many self-penned numbers, "Marie."

David Purcell is always a crowd favorite and tonight he didn't disappoint as he sang George Strait's "The Cowboy Rides Away," Merle's "It's Not Love But It's Not Bad," Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night," George Jones' "Walk Through This World With Me" and Alan Jackson's "Here In The Real World." Larry Dean closed the evening with a couple of R & B tunes, Gene Vincent's "Bebop A Lula" and "Old Time Rock & Roll." (Below) top - Our friend Marvin Bredemeier plays our favorite fiddle tune "Ragtime Annie" bottom - Look who we spotted on the dance floor tonight - Garry & Mary Bichelmeyer dance while the others play!





Thanks again Jean & Roger!!

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TUESDAY MAY 11, 2010
BK LOUNGE

A boisterous, near capacity crowd descended on the BK Lounge again last night and we had a lot of new faces join us. It seems like every Tuesday we see new people and most of them enjoy the music enough to come back again and again.

May 12 is Garry Bichelmeyer's birthday and to celebrate the occasion there was ample cake for everyone during the intermission. Garry was so embarrassed by the attention that he threatened to go out and sit in his car; I won't announce here how old he is. Everyone joined in singing "Happy Birthday" to him and then we sang "Happy Birthday" to little Kylie Gilmore whose birthday had been on May 10.

Roger and Jean Hawkins were not with us last night and I have not yet figured out how to keep track of all the songs the band performs while working the sound machine. So, without their help, I will just have to tell you we heard an outstanding mix of good music all evening long.

We hope everyone joins us at the BK Lounge next Tuesday, May 17 and again on Thursday, May 20 at the Grinter Barn where the "Friends of Grinter" ladies will be serving a Lasagna Dinner before the show.

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SATURDAY MAY 8, 2010
FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES
MERRIAM KS

The Eagles Club of Merriam Kansas put on a great dance program tonight. The building was nearly filled to capacity and the dance floor was full all night. Many Stranger Creek Band regular fans came out to dance along with a really good turnout from Eagles club members and friends.

All of the band members were in fine form as the music poured out. There was a good mix of classic and new country with some rock and roll dispersed throughout the evening. As usual, Dave Purcell gave an outstanding performance imitating Willie Nelson on several songs as well as performing a number of other songs during the evening. Dave is always well received and tonight was no exception.

As the show progressed there were many door prizes given away with all proceeds going to Diabetes research. With tonights proceeds the local club made its goal
for donations to the research program!

The Stranger Creek Band enjoyed the great turnout and we are looking forward to a return performance again soon!

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TUESDAY MAY 4, 2010
BK LOUNGE
It was a marvelous evening to be out and about tonight and a big crowd took advantage of the weather and decended on the BK for an evening of great classical country & vintage music, dancing, dining and visiting. Larry Dean has been accused of being a "walking juke box" and it was easy to see why as he opened the evening with Merle Haggard's "Working Man Blues," then it was a big band era tune, "It Had To Be You," followed somewhat later by "Old Time Rock & Roll," a tune made famous by The Platters, "Only You" and "I Can't Stop Loving You." This great band featuring Gordon Riley on lead guitar and John Malone on drums got the dancers wound up with "Panhandle Rag" and featured Gordon on "9 Lb. Hammer," "Windy & Warm," "Sugarfoot Rag" and "The Theme From Bonnie & Clyde." "Mighty" Marvin Bredemeier who plays fiddle at Annie's Country Jubilee every Saturday night got the toes tappin' with the "Beaumont Rag," "a beautiful but unnamed waltz" and a medley of "Soldier's Joy/Ragtime Annie."

Mary Bichelmeyer whose folks were visiting here tonight from Kentucky, did a supurb job singing Jeannie Pruett's "Satin Sheets," Loretta's "There He Goes," "I Don't Hurt Anymore" and "It Keeps Right On A'Hurtin." Husband Garry Bichelmeyer, who also writes such great songs, showed what a great performer he is as well singing George Jones' "Choices," "Kansas City" and John Anderson's "Swingin'." David Purcell is always such a treat to listen to and tonight he got a big hand as he sang "Once In A Lifetime Thing," a Garry Bichelmeyer tune, "Northern Star," Willie's "Help Me Make It Through The Night," Jack Blanchard & Misty Morgan's "Tennessee Birdwalk" and "Today I Started Loving You Again." Scott Gilmore was also in the house tonight and sang "Boot Scootin Boogie," much to the delight of the line dancers. Larry Dean closed tonight's program with "Long Black Train."

We also want to take this opportunity to welcome Judy Engle, one of the regulars here at the BK every Tuesday, as one of our newest sponsors. Judy is a Realtor with Re/Max Heartland operating from the Lee's Summit, MO area. To contact Judy call 816-589-8933 or visit www.JudyEngle.com or check out her sponsorship banner on the Big Creek Country Show page accessable from our home page.

(Below) Mary Bichelmeyer sings "I Don't Hurt Anymore" with lots of encouragement from husband Garry



Once again we have reprinted the article from MO-KAN OPRY.com. Thanks Roger & Jean
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BK LOUNGE
APRIL 27, 2010

It was great seeing Larry Dean again after a couple of weeks absence and after Gordon Riley, the group's fantastic lead guitarist, drummer John Malone and the rest of the band opened tonight's entertainment with "Gordon's Boogie #2," Larry greeted the big crowd with an old George Jones tune "She Reminds Me Of The One I Loved Back Then," Don Gibson's "Sea Of Heartbreak" (you'll remember it was featured in a Clint Eastwood film of the same name), "My Shoes Keep Walking Back To You" and George Strait's "The Fireman." Gordon & the band were featured on another of his original numbers known simply as Gordon's Boogie #1, then it was "Birth Of The Blues," "Honky Tonk" and Gordon's vocal treatment of the Bob Wills' classic "Roly Poly." Marvin Bredemeier, who usually plays every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee, was a judge at a local fiddle contest this past weekend and certainly well qualified to do so. He played some sweet tunes here tonight; "Down Yonder" was followed by "Sugar Moon," "Faded Love" and "Beaumont Rag."

Mary Bichelmeyer, the group's bass player showed her vocal skills, singing "I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You," "Crazy Dreams," "Tennessee Waltz" and "Walkin After Midnight." Husband Garry Bichelmeyer who is both a terrific performer and songwriter, surprised us with the old Johnny Horton chart topper "The Battle Of New Orleans" and Gene Watson's "Paper Rosie." He returned the second half with a couple of his original songs, one that's become know simply as "The Dead Horse Song" and the other, one that's still in the works, so to speak, entitled "Losing You." It's always great to see and hear David Purcell perform and tonight he chose Hank Sr.'s "Move It On Over," George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her Today" and in his best Willie voice, "Remember Me."

We could sit all day long and listen to Art Covey play his mandolin and sing, but unfortunately we have to make a little go a long way each week. Tonight he did a super job with "Deep Water," "Rebel Soldier" and "The Waltz Of The Angels." Our friend Annie Little was also in the house tonight and did a swell job with "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" and "That's How Much I Love You." She and friend Jay closed the evening with a fine duet of "Just A Closer Walk With Thee."

We were thinking just the other day how great the sound is here at the BK each and every week and of course that is due to the labors of their sound man, Keith Nielsen who also maintains a website: www.strangercreekband.com for the group. Kudos to Keith for a fine job each and every week!

(Below) top - Garry Bichelmeyer (at microphone) sings Johnny Horton's "Battle Of New Orleans"



Once again we thank Roger and Jean Hawkins for allowing us to reprint their wonderful blog from MO-KAN OPRY.COM

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BK LOUNGE
APRIL 20, 2010

The Lounge was almost bursting at the seams again tonight as our great fans continue to fill every chair in the place nearly every Tuesday night.

It was great to see two of our good friends up and going tonight. Roger Hawkins came in minus the walker and going pretty good on a cane. Jim Rumsey got out to visit us again. He was getting around amazingly well only two weeks after a total knee replacement. A thank you to all who have inquired about my wife, Pat Nielsen. She is progressing after a pretty extensive back surgery; it will just take time.

Larry Smith filled in tonight for the absent Larry Dean who was out of town for a couple of days. It is always a pleasure to see and hear him.

Larry and the gang got things started off tonight as he sang a Harlan Howard tune, "I Don't Believe I'll Fall In Love Today" followed by Moe Bandy's "Too Old To Die Young" and "Together Again." Gordon Riley and the band including drummer John Malone did a super job with "South" a tune made famous right here in Kansas City by the Bennie Moten orchestra. Gordon showed his vocal talents as well, singing Hank Thompson's "Six Pack To Go" and "Holding Things Together." "Mighty" Marvin Bredemeier, who plays such sweet fiddle music every Saturday night at Annie's Country Jubilee got the dancers up and moving with "Down Yonder" and "The Waltz You Saved For Me." He returned later to sing an old Hank Thompson tune "The Older The Violin, The Sweeter The Music." Larry got a big hand as he returned to sing "Kansas City" (always a favorite around here), then it was "Heartaches By The Number," "Green Green Grass Of Home," Cash's "Folsom Prison Blues," Merle's "Today I Started Loving You Again," "Pass Me By If You're Only Passing Through" and Chuck Berry's "Memphis." Mary Bichelmeyer put her soft, mellow voice to good work tonight as she sang "I Can't Help It If I'm Still In Love With You," Kitty Wells' "It Wasn't God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels" and Loretta's "There He Goes." We missed husband Garry's singing tonight, but he was here adding support. Hope to hear from him next week. It was super seeing David Purcell in the house tonight and he got a great ovation as he sang the Buck Owens/Dwight Yoakam classic "Streets Of Bakersfield," "Ain't It Funny How Time Slips Away," Hag's "No It's Not Love But It's Not Bad" and in his best Willie voice, "On The Road Again."

We love to hear Art Covey play his mandolin and sing and tonight he chose Darrell McCall's "There's Still A Lot Of Love In San Antone," "Love Letters In The Sand" (remember Pat Boone?) and "Falling Leaves." Great stuff! Annie Little was also in the house tonight and she sang Patsy Cline's "I Love You Honey" and joined Larry singing Jack Greene's "There Goes My Only Possession." Larry closed the evening with George Jones' "A Picture Of Me Without You" and "I Saw The Light."

(Below) Larry Smith



The photo and much of the text above was reprinted with the permission of Roger & Jean Hawkins of MO-KAN OPRY.COM. Thanks again, guys.

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APRIL 18, 2010
BROWN'S GRAND THEATER
CONCORDIA, KS

The Crossroads Tours bus picked up the first of the concert goers and left the Grinter House at 7:30 AM en route to get the everyone else at the Burger King in Lenexa, KS. Everyone was on board and all of the band equipment was loaded and we departed there for Concordia at 8:30 AM.

Time passed quickly on the way as Rosie, Larry and the gang kept us occupied with trivia, contests and whatever else they could think of to keep people from becoming bored. It was a good trip that all those on board seemed to enjoy immensely.

We arrived in Condordia at 11:45 AM. At the Brown's Grand Theater all of the band equipment was unloaded and the band members remained at the theater to set up and get everything ready for the concert scheduled for 3:00PM. The fans on the bus then moved to "Heavy's BBQ" for lunch.

The concert began promptly at 3:00PM with a rousing fiddle tune by Marvin Bredemeier. The music was outstanding as the Stranger Creek Band performed a good selection of their music. They were ably supported by an amazing array of special guests. Those guests included a wonderful vocalist from southwest Nebraska, Elton Flodman; Steel Guitar player Kurt Shoemaker who has played several Nashville recording sessions and backed up Martina McBride on stage. Our local friend, vocalist and song writer Larry Smith also loaned us his talents; he is always well received in Concordia. Rounding out the list of guests was Nashville recording artist, Cindy Bealer who hails from Nebraska. She is a very good singer whose newest recording can be found on I-Tunes. If you have never heard Cindy, look her up on I-Tunes and give her a listen.

When the concert ended and all passengers and equipment was back on board the bus; we made a quick visit to McDonald's for everyone to catch a quick snack and we were on our way home about 7:00PM. It had been a long day but there was still much banter and joke telling when we started the 4 hour ride. Gradually the bus grew quieter and quieter until everyone fell silent. About 11:30PM we arrived back at Grinter House and those people got off the bus and we continued to Burger King where the rest of the people and equipment was unloaded and we all headed home about midnight.

It had been a long, fun day that I think everyone enjoyed. We look forward to doing in again.

SEE YOU ALL TUESDAY AT BK LOUNGE!

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APRIL 15, 2010
GRINTER BARN

People began lining up early for the great Sloppy Jo's, chips, carrots and fruit cup prepared by the ladies with "Friends of Grinter". As usual, the food was outstanding.

AT 6:30 the band moved front and center and for the next two and a half hours the place was rockin'. Our special guest, ARNIE JOHNSON was in fine form and is always enthusiastically received.

We still missed our good friend Jim Rumsey as he continues to recover from knee surgery but we understand he will be back soon.

The show continued without a hitch until Garry Bichelmeyer stepped up to close out the show with "The Rebel Soldier". As soon as he started the fireworks began and those of us in the audience thought the Civil War had begun all over again with all "Popping" and "Banging"! Apparently we developed an electrical short somewhere in the sound system. Unable to locate the problem the show was terminated quickly. I'm sure that Larry Dean has spent today trying to locate and fix the problem before our much anticipated trip to the Brown's Grand Theater in Concordia Kansas for the concert on Sunday.

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