98 ANNUAL th
PROGRAM
OFFICIAL
San Luis Valley
Ski-Hi Stampede
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
July 25, 26, 27 & 28, 2019
Valley Publishing 835 First Ave. • Monte Vista, Colo.
719.852.3531
Ski-Hi Park Monte Vista
2205 State Ave. • Alamosa, Colo.
719.589.2553
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Page 2
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Courtesy photo
The 2019 Stampede Committee includes, from left to right: Greg Metz, Charlie Burd, CE Glunz, Jason Tilman, Derek Cooper, John Willschau, Karla Willschau, Helen Smith, Nick Malone, Cliff Edwards, Keith Rogers, Eric Kimberling, Brandon Rogers, Mark Deacon and Dave Cooper. Not pictured is Bob Carlucci.
Are you ready for Stampede?
By Helen Smith
MONTE VISTA— Colorado’s Oldest Pro Rodeo is celebrating its 98th Anniversary in 2019. The San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede will return to Monte Vista July 25-28. Described as having “roots as deep as the San Luis Valley itself,” the event continues to be a key feature of the Professional Rodeo landscape in Colorado and beyond. Founded in 1919, the Ski Hi Stampede has continued for nine decades with two years deducted during WWII. According to old
newspaper reports, the first Stampede was held on Aug. 11-13, 1919 with more than 10,000 attending the event. Since that time, the Ski Hi Stampede has received four nominations for PRCA Small Rodeo of the Year and has come to be recognized as a mainstay of San Luis Valley history and culture. The annual Stampede festivities feature a kick-off concert, three performances of PRCA rodeo, a carnival, parades and dances. The event continues to gain in popularity and remains the premier event of the summer for the San Luis Valley.
From the Stampede Committee President
Welcome to the 98 th Ski Hi Stampede Rodeo Program, I want to thank the people of the San Luis Valley for making the 97th annual celebration so much fun. Now let’s get ready for the 98th celebration! On July 25th preceding the concert, be sure to eat at the Rotary Chuck Wagon Dinner. We are super excited to bring another spectacular concert to Monte Vista. Randy Houser and opening act Walker Hayes will be here July 25th, so don’t miss it. Immediately after the concert fireworks may blast and the dance will begin and TEXWESTUS will play. There will be a parade on July 26th and 27 th 10 a.m. celebrating the theme “Super Heroes Teach.” The first rodeo will kick off Friday, July 26th at 7 pm with the world class stock contractor Stace Smith and rodeo announcer Boyd Polhamus. Rodeos will follow on Saturday July 27th at a new time of 7 p.m. and Sunday the 28 th at 2 p.m. Don’t forget to take your family to Wright’s Amusement Karla Willschau, president Carnival as they exceed our expectations every year with new rides. They promise to have a full slate of rides this year. Don’t miss this opportunity to get out and spend time with friends and family and enjoy our San Luis Valley community. It is the best! For more information check out our website at skihistampede.com, “like” us on our Facebook page and watch for Instagram postings. Have a great time at the 98th annual Ski Hi Stampede! Karla Willschau, president
The Stampede concert attracts the largest crowds in the Valley and has featured numerous high-profile county music artists including Josh Turner, Thomas Rhett and Old Dominion. Over the years, icons such as Chris LeDoux and the Charlie Daniels Band have also made stops in Monte Vista. The 2019 concert is set to feature Randy Houser and Walker Hayes. The Ski Hi Stampede also provides opportunities for the SLV community. Those opportunities include the chance for local amateurs to compete for trophy saddles in team roping, tie-down roping and barrel
racing. Furthermore, the Stampede Committee partners with Adams State University to provide scholarships to local students who demonstrate community involvement. The event is relatively unique in that it features a variety of entertainment choices and remains a social gathering that families have been known to return to annually. The tradition of is Stampede is expected to continue well into the future with no signs of slowing down. It has been hailed as a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together.
Courtesy photo
During the 2018 Stampede rodeo, scholarships were awarded to Sarah Schaller, Sara Brunelli and Lexi Metz.
Stampede committee offers annual scholarships
MONTE VISTA—San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede, Inc. and Adams State University Foundation both know the importance of being involved in local communities and supporting local youth. The San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede and Adams State University Foundation have teamed up to provide three $3,500 scholarships to any male or female San Luis Valley resident. The scholarships will be awarded to qualifying applicants during the
2019 Stampede rodeo. Qualifications include in the year of scholarship application, the applicant must have or will be participating either in the San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede Rodeo, San Luis Valley High School Rodeo, San Luis Valley little Britches Rodeo, or the San Luis Valley Fair as a 4-H or FFA participant; or be a stockholder or child of a San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede shareholder or be a volunteer during the SLV Ski Hi Stampede event.
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
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Boyd is headed back to Stampede
File photos
Boyd Polhamus, the rodeo announcer, entertained while fans enjoyed the rodeo.
Bring canned foods to carnival Wednesday
MONTE VISTA— Wright’sAmusements and the Ski Hi Stampede committee invite all to help out the Monte Vista Emergency Food Bank! On opening night, Wednesday, July 24, bring two cans of food (or more, of
course!) to get a $20 unlimited ride wristband. Please make sure the cans are not damaged or expired. Thank you in advance from the Monte Vista Emergency Food Bank for helping combat hunger.
Monte Vista Elks hosting dance
MONTE VISTA— The Monte Vista Gunbarrel Junction, from 8:30 p.m. to 12: Elks #2456 is having a Stampede dance on 30 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Come and Saturday, July 27, with music provided by join us!
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MONTE VISTA — This year’s Ski Hi rodeo announcer is a regular here— as well as many other rodeos, nationwide. Boyd Polhamus is known for announcing on horseback. According to this website, Boyd Polhamus is a blessed man. That’s the first thing he will say when asked about his life and his career. “God’s fingerprints are all over everything that’s happened in my life, which is why it’s pretty good to be me.” Polhamus said. It is good to be Boyd. His career has put him behind the microphone at the biggest rodeo events in the world, including 20 times as the announcer for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR). He was selected five additional times as the alternate. In addition, his voice has filled Reliant Stadium at RodeoHouston for 20 plus years, along with other prestigious locations like the National Western in Denver, the Calgary Stampede, the Dodge City Round Up, and the Snake River Stampede. “My schedule includes about 40 venues a year and close to 170 performances, so I’m busy,” Polhamus said. He added that with travel he’s on the road between 260 and 280 days a year. Polhamus has been married to his wife, Sandee for over 25 years. She travels with him as much as she can, while at the same time taking care of their “Band-Aid Ranch” along with all their pets and animals in Brenham, Texas. Polhamus started this life and career as a cowboy
in Wisconsin. He was the state’s first three-time All-Around Champion Cowboy on the High School level. That feat earned him a scholarship to compete on the College level in Texas; and that’s where his announcing career began. “It was clear that God gave me a lot more talent with a mic than he did with a rope; so it was an easy decision to go with the announcing,” he said. After graduating from college, Polhamus began announcing for Barnes PRCA Rodeo. He had an Isuzu pick-up with a motorcycle trailer and a camping tent in the trailer. “I’d go to the rodeo grounds, set up the tent, and use the public showers,” Polhamus recalled. “I learned a lot from Bob Barnes and those early years.” Today, he travels with a 44-foot Bloomer trailer that includes two air conditioners and satellite television. “Wouldn’t trade that tent for anything, but don’t get me wrong, I don’t want to go back to it,” Polhamus admitted. Polhamus’ journey also includes many accolades. He’s the youngest announcer ever selected to work the NFR, (25 years of age in 1990). He’s been voted the WPRA Announcer of the year three times, (2000, 2003, 2005). Plus the Professional Rodeo Cowboy’s Association has named him the Announcer of the Year four times (2007, 2008, 2009, and 2012). He was also given the Lane Frost Memorial Award in 2009 during the Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo. It’s good to be Boyd. “I told you!” he said.
MONTE VISTA—The Transportation Museum won’t be opening until after Stampede this summer. They don’t want to interfere with the construction going on in the Fassett building, but look forward to
opening next summer from June through August, as usual. Please visit the Monte Vista History Center on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. this summer.
Transportation Museum to open after Stampede
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98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
That’s entertainment
Photos by Stephen Jiron
Platinum recording artist Gary Allan controls the stage last year’s concert. Allan performed hit songs such as “Nothing On but the Radio” during his set at the Thursday night concert.
Jennifer Fielder (left) and Trey Smith of country music duo Smithfield get into the rhythm during their performance at Monte Vista’s Ski Hi Stampede. Smithfield used a mixture of original music like “Hey Whiskey” in addition to a few covers to entertain the crowd last year.
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
More bull headed to Ski Hi Stampede
MONTE VISTA—If the bulls look meaner, the horses rougher and the calves and steers more agile, thank perennial Stampede favorite stock contractor Stace Smith. Stace Smith produces more PRCA rodeos than any other PRCA stock contractor. In addition to PRCA rodeos, Smith Pro Rodeos produces PBR and Bronc Match events throughout the year. It is in large part to his experience that Stace Smith has been named PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. This consecutive eleven-year accomplishment has never been achieved in PRCA history. Stace has worked at every level of rodeo, beginning as a contestant, then spending time as chute boss, and pickup man. Smith was chosen as pickup man for the Texas Circuit finals in both 2005 and 2007, and continues to pick-up at a number Stace Smith of our events. In 2009, Stace Smith became a shareholder in Mesquite Championship Rodeo and in 2014, Smith Pro Rodeos has served as the committee or partners with the committee at 26 of the 39 events produced. This one-of-a-kind experience gives them an inside edge on what it takes to help the committees achieve one of the ultimate goals of spectator sports, putting spectators in the seats. In 2014, Smith Pro Rodeos had seven PRCA rodeos nominated in the four “Rodeo of the Year” categories. Smith Pro Rodeos produces rodeos across nine different states from Mississippi through Texas, Colorado, North Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. Each performance is carefully planned in advance, from building equal, exciting pens of livestock, to planning the order they will be presented according to the stock and rider’s attributes. All timed event livestock come directly from the Smith ranch, so there are no mismatched pens or delivery issues. Because of these efforts, turnouts are at a minimum, so each rodeo is a balanced representation of the sport. For more information, go online to www.smithprorodeos.com.
Bobby Kerr to perform at Ski Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
MONTE VISTA— Ski Hi Stampede is one of the most well-known rodeo events in the San Luis Valley and in some parts of Colorado. This year the Monte Vista rodeo has booked Bobby Kerr and his Mustang Act. Kerr’s accolades include everything from Specialty Act awards from the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and National Finals Rodeo (NFR) to an International Professional Rodeo Association (IPRA) National Finals Rodeo showcase and even an appearance on Good Morning America in 2014 stemming from earning a finalist spot in the Mustang Million competition. It’s fair to say that Kerr knows his way around our equine companions, as he has been training horses for more than 40 years. All that experience is a big part of the reason why Kerr took home the title in the Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover competition in 2012. Though it’s lesser known, Kerr’s talents extend beyond the manége. The performer also owns and operates an arts and crafts company called Cowboy Art that features custom metal signs and fixtures. Kerr and son, Cody, also got into the motorcycle industry. The father son duo work together to build custom motorcycles trading and sharing responsibility on the various aspects of completing a build. Those interested in catching Kerr’s act should be sure to attend the Ski Hi PRCA Rodeo the weekend of July 27.
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
was voted Fan Favorite with twice as many votes as anyone else. Since then, Poncho has performed across the country in hundreds of performances. He has ridden in his car on Times Square in NY City and been featured on Good Morning America. TRIGGER - Palomino Eleven-year-old mustang gathered in Salt Wells, Wyo.—he was adopted through the Mustang Heritage Foundation to compete in The Mustang Million makeover in 2013. After only 120 days training he placed 2nd with an outstanding and unique act. Since then he has performed in hundreds of venues including rodeos and equine events. He is an extremely willing horse and does whatever is asked of him. He’s friendly and loves all the attention he is getting. His main pleasure is eating. Newt-Red Roan Four-year-old mustang gathered from Devils Garden herd in the Modoc Forest, Calif. Frosty-Grey Roan Two-year-old mustang gathered from Triple B range in Nevada. Dogs Burt – Brown border collie/kelpie cross Spud – Black & white Border collie/McNab cross
Kerr’s current stable includes: Horses Bobby Kerr will perform his Mustang Act Poncho - Bay during the 2019 Stampede. Fourteen-year-old mustang gathered in Callaghan Range, Nev. to compete in the 2011 Courtesy photo Supreme Extreme Mustang Makeover. He
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98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Ski-hi salutes our STONE’S FARM SUPPLY Farm Credit Services
Porter Realty
Alamosa State Bank
4 Rivers Equipment
Southway Construction
SLV Health
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Monte Vista Coop
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Wall, Smith, Bateman, Inc.
La Junta Livestock Commission
Community Banks
Friday Health Plans
Colorado Potato Administration
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98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
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stampede
2019 sponsors
Call Kyle Ellis a
NAPA
First Southwest Bank
Rogers Family Mortuary
Sunflower Bank
Farm Fresh Direct, LLC
Cooley and Sons
KYDN / KSLV
Rio Grande Seed & Grain
Southwest Liquor
Poole Chemical
Big R Stores
Valley Publishing
Circle D Farms
Valley Lumber
360 Insurance
Canon Potato
Absolute Shine
Dell’s Insurance
Square Peg
Pepper Equipment
Del Norte Bank
La Jara Trading Post Alamosa Building Supply
CIA Leavitt Insurance
Zapata Gold
Emerald Ranch
Aarons
Mark’s Outdoor Sports
Brown’s Septic
Monte Vista Machine Tool
Agri-Stor
LMNOC
WCB
Lenco West
Valley Wide Welding
Wenta-Nip and Sanitizing
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98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Are you ready for the 98th Annual Ski Hi Stampede?
Tentative schedule of events Wednesday, July 24 Wright’s Amusement Carnival
Thursday, July 25 Wright’s Amusement Carnival 5:30 p.m.: Rotary Chuckwagon Dinner 7:30 p.m.: Concert Fireworks! 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.: Dance Friday, July 26 Family Day! Wright’s Amusement Carnival 10 a.m.: Parade
1 p.m.: Local Rodeo, amateur events and professional slack 7 p.m.: PRCA Rodeo 9 p.m.-1 a.m.: Dance Saturday, July 27 Wright’s Amusement Carnival 10 a.m.: Parade 7 p.m.: PRCA Rodeo 9 p.m.-1 a.m.: Dance Sunday, July 28 Wright’s Amusement Carnival 10 a.m.: Christian Cowboy Service 2 p.m.: PRCA Rodeo Saddle Awards
Photos by Ruthanne Johnson
A young cowboy waited patiently in the stands for the Gary Allan concert to begin.
Young parade onlookers were thrilled by the gargantuan farming equipment that rolled by.
Monte Vista’s Kid’s Connection cooked up pancakes, quiche and sausage for Saturday’s pre-parade breakfast.
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98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
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Donors help make parades successful
MONTE VISTA— The Ski Mathias Concrete Hi Stampede Parade Committee McCormick-Milne Produce would like to thank the following McNitt Produce Co. individuals and businesses for their Metz Potato Co. contributions to the 2019 parades. Monte Vista Cooperative Their continued support makes Monte Vista Elks the parades possible and is greatly Monte Vista Eye Care appreciated. Monte Vista Journal Absolute Shine Monte Vista Machine Tool Aspen Produce Monte Vista Potato Growers Brian Roberts, DDS Monte Vista Rotary Club Bristol Design MTV Southwest Liquor – Michael C & L Container Valdez China Garden Myers Bros Truck and Tractor, Inc. CIA Leavitt Insurance Nino’s City Market Notes and Numbers Colorado Potato Admin. Comm. Patricia Mackey / Pro Therapy Del Norte Federal Bank Massage DQ Grill & Chill Pepper Equipment Dr. David Hinkley Poole Chemical Co. Dwight and Kandy Freeman Pro Shed, LLC Ecodynamics Inc. Rio Grande Savings & Loan Edward D. Jones - Jeff & Beth Rio Grande Seed & Grain Keck Rogers Family Mortuary Farm Fresh Direct Ron & Carolyn David Glen Burnham San Luis Valley Federal Bank Gunbarrel Station San Luis Valley REC Hi-Land Potato Co. Inc. Sharri Oliver – 360 Insurance Jack’s Market Pharmacy Shon Davis James and Karla Willschau SLV Garden Center Joseph A. Lucero DDS, Inc. SLV Precast Victor and Laura Ast Southern Colorado Computer
Have a safe and fun Stampede! Sparkle Cleaners Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
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A special thanks to the following for their help each year: Shon Davis (announcer) Carol Keller (sewing banners) Eugene Farrish (color guard) C l i f f K i n c a n n o n / Va l l e y Communications (sound system) Coors Beer Distributors (award posters) The Monte Vista Police Department (traffic control) File photo by Ruthanne Johnson The City of Monte Vista Public Children collect small mountains of candy during the annual Stampede Works Department (traffic control) parades.
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Stampede amateur events announced
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MONTE VISTA— The Ski-Hi Stampede Committee announces the 2019 amateur events and rules. All amateur contestants will participate in the slack/qualifying round of the Ski-Hi Stampede rodeo on Friday, July 26 following the PRCA slack at 1 p.m. Please be present by 1:30 p.m. for local entry events. All participants MUST be residents of the San Luis Valley—no exceptions. • Entry fees will be $100 per person per event. Calf Roping - $100 Barrel Racing - $100 Team Roping - $200 An individual may enter only once per event. • Event will be a one go round timed trials. • The 8 (eight) fastest times, who were successful in the qualifying round, will advance to the Ski-Hi Pro Rodeo performances on Saturday and Sunday, bottom four Saturday and top four Sunday. • Amateur monies will be paid to the fastest four contestants during Friday’s qualifier. Stock, secretary and judges fees will be deducted. Pay off will be as follows: 1st-40 percent; 2nd -30 percent; 3rd-20 percent and 4th-10 percent • There will be no additional entry fee for participation in the Stampede Pro Rodeo. The fastest time in each event will be the winner of the amateur saddle for the event. The amateur saddle will be presented to the winner at the Sunday performance of the San Luis Valley Ski Hi Rodeo. In the event of a tie for the saddle, tie-breaker will be the best time from the qualifying round. Individuals and teams will be scheduled in the Ski-Hi Pro Rodeo as follows: • Number of individuals and teams will be divided equally for each of the two days (Saturday and Sunday) of the Ski-Hi Pro Rodeo. • Competition order will be from slowest times from qualifier at the Saturday performance to the fastest times at the Sunday performance. • Example (with eight maximum qualifiers with performance date and running order): Saturday, July 27 – Qualifiers 8,7,6,5; Sunday, July 28 - Qualifiers 4,3,2,1 • Once individuals and teams have qualified, and performance times have been
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Photos by Stephen Jiron
Ron and Glenda Martinez present Katie Lepp a new saddle for taking top place in Barrel Racing during the valley portion of last year’s Ski-Hi Stampede Rodeo. set, there will be no changes or additions even if a qualifier must draw out for any reason. • All communications about complaints or grievances shall be directed to the Ski-Hi Stampede Board of Directors at a monthly meeting by asking for a spot on the agenda to express the concerns. At no time will sponsors or other individuals be approached about grievances. Any violations of this clause may result in disqualification in this year’s eligibility as well as all future year’s eligibility in Ski Hi Stampede Rodeo events. • Registration will be from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday, July 22 at the Ski-Hi Stampede Committee Building, 2330 Sherman Ave.,
Monte Vista native Kyle Maez drives his steer into the ground. The top spot in the steer wrestling event went to Kalane Anders who got all four facing the same direction in 4.4 seconds.
Monte Vista. Contestants must have the following for registration: Entry fee (cash or check; if a participant’s check bounces, they will not be allowed to compete for the saddle in the pro rodeo); proof of health insurance; proof of residency (driver’s license of 90 days in the Valley) • Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a legal guardian or have a notarized release from your legal guardians. • Team Roping – Must be the complete team! • All participants must enter in person!
Mutton busting Participants must be between ages of five and seven years old and less than 50 pounds. They must be a San Luis Valley resident and show proof of age and insurance. Child must be present at entry office to weigh in. There will be a limit of 10 mutton busters per day.All mutton busters must report to the west end of the grandstand before the saddle bronc riding begins. Contestants not reporting on time will not be allowed to compete.
See website for more information and all the rules, www.skihistampede.com.
Wyatt Jurney leaves an empty saddle as he pulls a steer to the ground. Jurney owns the top time going forward of 5.9 seconds.
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
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Courtesy photo
The Ski-Hi Stampede Committee got together in June to present a check in the amount of $7,000 to the San Luis Valley Health Foundation. Accepting the check for the Foundation in the middle from left to right are board members Mary Motz; Sheila Hicks; Kelly Gurule, director SLV Health Foundation and Roxann Sittler.
Be tough enough to wear pink
SAN LUIS VALLEY— For 98 years, the Ski-Hi Stampede has entertained crowds from all over the country and provided one of the best pro-rodeo events in the state. Not only has the Ski Hi Stampede brought joy to the Valley, guests to the area and fun for all who attend, they have also provided donations to a local cause and have helped save the lives of many through their generosity. The Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center at San Luis Valley Health in Alamosa was created when Miner, a local teacher, was diagnosed with breast cancer after her fourth child was born. When Miner lost her fight with cancer, her family approached SLV Health with the idea and starting funds for a center where women could go for early detection, prevention and all the state-of-the-art equipment needed to fight the disease. It was in 2006 that the members of SkiHi Stampede board of directors approached the hospital and asked if they could help by becoming a part of a nation-wide program known as “Tough Enough to Wear Pink.” The program is an initiative supported by Wrangler and has participants from around the country. The Stampede Committee has pledged to become “Pillars of the Community,” which means they will have donated more than $100,000 to the SLV Health Foundation. “The Ski Hi Stampede committee’s commitment to the TETWP campaign has raised more than $87,000 to directly benefit the Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center. They are not very far from their goal of becoming one of our distinguished Pillars. I’m sure they can reach their goal before the 100th anniversary of the rodeo,” stated Kelly Gurule, SLV Health Foundation director.
The Stampede committee, in conjunction with the San Luis Valley Health Foundation, is encouraging everyone to participate. All staff and volunteers for the event will be wearing pink throughout the festivities. “We know everyone is proud to be ‘Tough Enough to Wear Pink,’” said Gurule. Tough Enough to Wear Pink was created by project founder Terry Wheatley in 2004. Wrangler presented the pink western shirts during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo that same year and has continued on as the head sponsor for events nationwide. The program has raised cancer awareness as well as raised funds for research, equipment and to help families with financial assistance. The amount of money raised is staggering in the 15 years since the program’s inception. Wrangler donates all funds raised that come through their program to the national Breast Cancer Research Foundation that has been dubbed one of the best charitable programs in the nation. According to the website, “The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF) was founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder as an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to funding innovative clinical and translational research. In 2010, BCRF awarded $33 million to 172 scientists across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. Currently, more than 90 cents of every dollar donated is directed to breast cancer research and awareness programs.” Gurule was pleased to talk about the things the donations have done for the center to date. Funds from previous years have been used to purchase equipment and maintain the center so the services provided there can be available to
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those that need them. “There is one thing that people really need to understand,” said Gurule. “The money that is raised here stays here in the Valley to help local residents and provide local services.” This year, 100 of the profits from the “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” tips and a portion of Saturday’s rodeo ticket sales will be donated to go towards the purchase of the new state-of-theart 3-D Mammography Unit in the Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center. The women’s imaging center in Alamosa
directly benefits from the funds raised during Ski-Hi Stampede, so keeping the money local is of the utmost importance. Breast cancer awareness, prevention and early detection is paramount in the fight against this disease. The center has recently extended its hours in order to meet the needs of the Valley and encourage woman to speak with their physicians for a referral to the center. Through these efforts, women from all over the world have the tools and support necessary to overcome the disease and find new hope in life.
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Ski-Hi Stampede Parade Committee Members of the Ski Hi Stampede Parade Committee are, seated left to right: Debbie Garcia, Anita OlmeCranston, Colleen Vanderbilt and Letha Hershey; standing: Lorelyn Buss, Kandy Freeman, Peggy Metz and Linda Weyers. Courtesy photo
Stampede parade basic info Friday and Saturday, July 26 and 27 Lineup will begin at 8:30 a.m. each day. Floats and antique vehicles will assemble by the First Stop store, east of the railroad tracks on Highway 160. Drivers should remain with their entry in case it needs to be moved. Bikes, 3/4 wheelers, walkers, etc. will assemble at the west end of Fullenwider Park by the Sugar Shack. Horses/
Parade route
riders will assemble between the convenience store and the Information Center. Please no horses in the area of floats and vehicles. Highway 160 closes at 9 a.m. and the line moves forward. The parade starts at 10 a.m. Be prepared to lineup early and wait. The parade route travels west on 1st Avenue (Hwy. 160), turns south on Davis Street, then turns east on 2nd Avenue and returns to Safeway.
Parade entry numbers will be issued when the entry form is returned to the Colorado Potato Administration Office, 1305 Park Avenue, Monte Vista. FAX 719-852-4684. Place the number on the left front (driver side) of your entry. Horse entry numbers are to be placed on the left side of your horse. Please secure all four corners so judges can identify your entry quickly. Entry numbers are not required
for bands, entries not wanting to be judged or entries not participating both days. Award winners will be announced Saturday. During the parades: no group or individual may stop to perform or hold up the parade. All performances must be done while moving forward. Groups with small children must be able to keep up with the parade pace to avoid gaps. No candy or trinkets may be thrown from your entry. Nothing can be shot from an entry. If you wish to hand out items, you must have walkers that walk along the edge of the street and distribute them. These rules are in place for the safety of children who may run into the street.
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New Stampede Parade route
Courtesy photo
Change in Stampede route
MONTE VISTA—There will be a slight change to the end of the Stampede parade route this year. Instead of ending near Safeway, the parade will turn south one block earlier, on Madison (between the bowling alley and the Nazarene Church) and continue to 3rd Avenue. From there, participants can go east on 3rd to access Highway 160 from the skate park area. Parade entries are asked to keep moving while on Madison, no stopping or unloading, until they turn onto 3rd Avenue.
This change will affect parade participants as well as parade goers. Madison will be closed to parking and thru traffic before and during the parade to ensure room for floats and trucks to travel through safely. The Parade Committee and Monte Vista Police Department remind people to not remove barriers. These are in place for your safety and will be removed when it is safe to do so. Enjoy the parades; be polite, be patient, be safe, and expect traffic delays and congestion!.
Stampede parades to honor educators
MONTE VISTA— This year marks the 98th year of the San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede. This summer parade goers, as well as participants are in for a treat. The theme chosen for the 2019 stampede parades will be “Super Heroes Teach.” Schools, churches, individuals and businesses have an opportunity to recognize and thank an educator, a teacher, a coach, a mentor or anyone who has made a difference in their lives. The parade committee is excited to see creative entries, from the community,
honoring educators from throughout the Valley. Dress as a favorite superhero and take part in this long-standing tradition. The parades will take place in downtown Monte Vista on Friday, July 26 and Saturday, July 27, beginning at 10 a.m. Entry forms are available online at www.skihistampede. com or at the Colorado Potato Administration Office. Plan now to join the fun as we celebrate summer with two great days of parades during the Ski Hi Stampede.
Thank you, Ski-Hi Stampede Committee! Since 2006, you have given over
San Luis Valley Health Regional MedicalCenter Center San for Luis Valley Health Regional Medical
$71,000 $87,000
to help open the doors and enhance the Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center, serving thousands of patients from across the San Luis Valley!
106 Blanca Ave., Alamosa, CO
www.sanluisvalley.org/foundation
719-587-5707
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Tillmans to be honored as grand marshals for Saturday
By Helen Smith
SAN LUIS VALLEY– Faith and education are two of the prominent features of John and Judy Tillman’s story. Teaching and acts of service are arguably what they have dedicated their lives to. Their story is one of commitment and service to students in the San Luis Valley and beyond. The couple has been named the grand marshals for the 2019 Ski Hi Stampede Parade on Saturday, July 27. With the parade’s theme for 2019 being “Superheros Teach,” the Tillmans have been widely recognized as an ideal choice to represent the dedication of the San Luis Valley’s educators. The Tillmans’ story of service to the students of the San Luis Valley began in 1965 when both came to Alamosa to what was then Adams State College as freshmen. Although they attended the same institution for four years and both graduated in 1969, the two did not meet until later. While they each took very different paths following their time in Alamosa, they both found their way back to Colorado. John went on to obtain a master’s degree from Adams State. He also spent six years in Virginia. Upon returning to the San Luis Valley, he took a teaching position at Sargent Schools where he would spend 22 years. During his career, he served in a variety of roles ranging from a K-12 music teacher to administrative positions such as assistant principal. “I’ve been in education for over 35 years,” he said. Judy, a Colorado native from Byers, was also awarded a master’s degree from Colorado State University. She too lived on the East Coast for a brief time, spending two years in New York City as a missionary in the inner city for the Southern Baptist Convention. Following her time in New York, she later relocated to Gunnison, where she taught English, Spanish and coached the speech team. Eventually, the two crossed paths and were later married in 1980. They settled back in the Valley where Judy also became a teacher at Sargent for one year. She then took a seven-year hiatus to raise the couples’ two sons, Andrew and Matthew.
Andrew still resides in the Valley while Matthew is a Major in the United States Army and is stationed at Joint Base, Ft. Lewis McChord in Tacoma, Wash. The Tillmans are also the proud grandparents of three grandchildren. Following his time with the Sargent School District, John spent 11 years as part of the leadership of San Luis Valley BOCES assisting educators. Judy returned to teaching for 22 more years following the seven-year pause. The Tillmans continue to be very active in various capacities in their community. They consider giving back to be important. Both have acknowledged that teaching has always been a central part of their story. “I guess for both of us, teaching is our gift,” said Judy. Furthermore, they are still involved in the education sector and using their experience to serve as mentors for students at Sargent Schools through a program known as Kid’s Hope USA, which is a national, non-profit organization that works to facilitate mentoring relationships with at-risk children through local church-school partnerships. The local branch of Kids Hope USA is just one small part of a group that has nearly 1,000 church-school partnerships in 34 states across the U.S. with over 15,000 mentor-student relationships existing within those partnerships. The Tillmans have also made it very clear that as believers in Christ, their faith and their commitment to maintaining involvement in the work of the church is also a priority that is central to who they are. Currently, the Tillmans are both serving as Sunday School class teachers at Sargent Community Church where John is also the choir director. They continue to seek to make a positive difference and be a part of the community where and when they can. In their spare time, they enjoy visits with their grandchildren along with being “amateur gardeners.” The Tillmans are not afraid to talk about the work they do and they have no intention of slowing down anytime soon. They are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of highlighting the work of educators in the San Luis Valley.
Photo by Rebecca Copley
Former educators Gary and Jerene Wilkinson will lead Friday’s Stampede parade as the marshals.
Wilkinsons to lead Friday parade
By Rebecca Copley
MONTE VISTA— With education as this year’s Stampede parade theme, it was clear that Gary and Jerene Wilkinson would be the perfect candidates for the parade marshals. Both are long-time Valley residents. Gary has lived in the Valley his whole life and has taught for 37 years in the Monte Vista School District. He still coaches football there and has been coaching for 40 years. When this year’s Stampede theme was being discussed it was suggested it be “Teachers are superheroes.” But Gary said they wanted to make it more
about the kids, “We teach superheroes,” he said. Gary and Jerene meet in college but got connected afterwards through a mutual friend. They both happened to be in Denver at the same time and went to a Broncos game as their first date. The rest is history. They have two children— Kellyn and Kirk. Kellyn is an elementary special ed teacher and is married to Mike who works for the city of Monte Vista. Kirk helps to manage a restaurant. They also have three wonderful grandsons— Jakoby, Rylen and Nolan. Please see MARSHALS on Page 15
John and Judy Tillman
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Houser, Hayes to perform Stampede concert
MONTE VISTA – With an inimitable voice the New York Times describes as “wholly different, thicker and more throbbing, a caldron bubbling over,” Randy Houser racked up three consecutive No. 1 hits and more than four million in singles sales to date with his Stoney Creek Records album, How Country Feels. Houser will be the headliner for the 2019 Ski Hi Stampede concert on Thursday, July 25. Opening for Houser will be Monument Records recording artist, Walker Hayes. Houser topped the charts with the title track, “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” and “Goodnight Kiss” (also his first No. 1 as a songwriter) and earned critical acclaim for his powerful delivery of the Top 5 smash and CMA Song of the Yearnominated “Like A Cowboy.” He added a fourth No. 1 to his catalogue with “We Went” from his 2016 album, Fired Up. Randy Houser’s fifth studio album, Magnolia, will be his third album with current label home, Stoney Creek Records and marks a new era for Houser. Listeners got their first taste of Houser’s rootsy new sound with the summer release of “What Whiskey Does,” which debuted at Country radio as #1 Most Added and Rolling Stone immediately dubbed “a classic tears-andtwang drinking song.” Hayes is a singer/songwriter originally from Mobile, Ala. Hayes’ current single “90’s Country” made its debut on Good Morning America and is available for purchase or
Walker Hayes download everywhere. The single, which references 22 90’s country songs, was written by Hayes, Shane McAnally and LYRX. and co-produced by David Garcia, McAnally and Hayes. In December 2017, Hayes released his debut album boom., which he co-produced with GRAMMY Award winning producer and songwriter, McAnally. The 10-track album includes the RIAA
Dance the night away with TexWestus
MONTE VISTA— Thursday, Friday and Saturday night’s dances will feature country rock duo TexWestus. Not every band clicks right away. In the case of TexWestus, musical strangers enjoyed success from different directions, and eventually found they also like the power of a full band’s sound. That involved taking advantage of opportunities. Chloe Fowler and Corbin Burgett, duo partners and co-leaders of the larger band, met for the first time in a songwriting class taught by Jay Lemon at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas. Before clicking there, they lived, unaware of one another, approximately 30 miles apart. Fowler, born and raised in the Lubbock area, was Please see DANCE on Page 16
Courtesy photo
TexWestus features
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Randy Houser certified Platinum hit, “You Broke Up With Me” as well as fan favorites “Halloween” and “Beautiful.” Tracks from the album were nominated for Radio Disney Country Favorite Song (“You Broke Up With Me”), CMT Breakthrough Music Video of the Year (“You Broke Up With Me”) and AIMP Song of the Year (“Craig”). Hayes is currently headlining his Dream On
It Tour. Last year, he headlined his first every Good As Gold Tour and has previously toured with Kelsea Ballerina, Thomas Rhett, Dan + Shay, Old Dominion and more. For more information on Walker Hayes, visit www.walkerhayes.com. Concert tickets are available at www. skihistampede.com and at the Stampede office.
Renowned rodeo champions
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association has produced its fair share of memorable performers over the years. One of the more prestigious honors a rodeo rider can earn is the PRCA All-Around Cowboy Champion, which is given to the rodeo competitors who are most successful in two or more events. The following are a handful of rodeo competitors to win multiple All-Around PRCA All-Around championships. • Trevor Brazile: The record holder for most all-around titles, Brazile eclipsed former record holder Ty Murray in 2010 when he won his eighth all-around championship. The 2014 season marked the ninth straight year the Texas-born Brazile was named the PRCA All-Around Cowboy Champion. • Ty Murray: Though Murray’s record for
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
most all-around championships has been eclipsed, he remains one of professional bull riding’s most recognizable faces, having crossed over into popular culture with appearances on television shows such as “Walker, Texas Ranger,” “WWE Raw” and “Dancing With the Stars.” • Lewis Feild: A member of the ProRodeo Hall of Fame, Feild is a three-time winner of the PRCAAll-Around Cowboy Championship, with three consecutive wins from 1985 to 1987. Feild’s son, Kaycee, is an accomplished rider as well. • Tom R. Ferguson: The Oklahoma-born Ferguson is another legend of rodeo, having won six all-around championships during the 1970s. Ferguson was also something of a trailblazer in rodeo, as he was the first rodeo
competitor to earn more than $100,000 in the arena in a single year, a feat he accomplished in 1978. • Larry Mahan: Upon winning the PRCA All-Around Cowboy Championship in 1970, Mahan became the first rodeo competitor to win five such championships in a row. Mahan’s 1973 comeback even garnered him some acclaim and attention in an unlikely place: Hollywood. “The Great American Cowboy,” a documentary film from Kieth Merrill, focused
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on Mahan’s comeback and battle with Phil Lyne for the world championship. The film would win the 1973 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. • Jim Shoulders: The first competitor to ever win the bareback, bull riding and all-around events at the PRCA Championships, Shoulders also had a successful career outside of the rodeo arena, where he was a notable presence in print and television advertisements for jeans, boots and beer. TF157338
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Courtesy photo
MARSHALS
Jerene and Gary both enjoy nature and doing outdoor activities, such as hiking. Jerene loves books and is an avid reader. As an old physics and chemistry teacher, Gary loves anything having to do with science. He also enjoys getting out his motorcycle and going for rides. Both Gary and Jerene have always been very involved in the community. Gary serves on many community organizations. He serves as vice president of the Monte Vista Chamber of Commerce, vice chairman of the Urban Renewal Authority and is president of the Monte Vista Education Foundation. Jerene also serves the Monte Vista community as a board member of the Education Foundation and as treasurer
Continued from Page 13 of the Conour Animal Shelter. She also worked for the Monte Vista School District for 21 years in accounting and risk managing. Although Gary and Jerene are wonderful choices for Friday’s parade marshals, they were hesitant to accept. When asked if they would be the marshals, Gary said, “Call somebody else.” They don’t seek attention, and prefer to work behind the scenes— working in quiet ways to serve their community. They are both generous, humble people who care deeply for the community of Monte Vista. It is very fitting that the community is able to honor them in this way during Stampede. Thank you Gary and Jerene for serving selflessly and making a difference in this community.
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98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
DANCE Mutton Busting, an unforgettable experience
MONTE VISTA—Nobody expects to break or ride a sheep, but it has a benefit. It’s a chance for little kids to get a taste of adventure, a feel for what it’s like to be a cowboy. They might get bruised and they’ll definitely get dirty, but it’s an experience they will never forget. Mutton busting is the sport of bareback sheep riding. Kiddie competitors challenge themselves and the sheep to see who can hold on the longest as they try for a qualifying time in the rodeo arena. Mutton busting is similar to bull riding, except that the contestants wear more protective gear and are closer to the ground. A sheep is held still, either in a small chute or by an adult handler, while a child is placed on top in a riding position. Once the child is seated, the sheep is released and usually starts to run in an attempt to get the child off. Often small prizes or ribbons are given out to the children who can stay on the longest. There are no set rules for mutton busting, no national organization, and most events are organized at the local level. However, children who begin as mutton busters could go on to be top Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) money winners or, at least, tops on the hometown rodeo circuit. The vast majority
of children participating in the event fall off in less than 8 seconds. Age, height and weight restrictions on participants generally prevent injuries to the sheep, and implements such as spurs are banned from use. In most cases, children are required to wear helmets and parents are often asked to sign waivers to protect the rodeo from legal action. The practice has been documented as having been introduced to the National Western Stock Show in Denver, at least by the 1980s when an event was sponsored by Nancy Stockdale Cervi, a former rodeo queen. At that event, children ages five to seven who weighed less than 55 pounds could apply, and ultimately seven contestants were selected to each ride a sheep for six seconds. There are no statistics about the popularity of the sport, but anecdotal reports suggest thousands of children participate in such events every year in the U.S. Supporters consider the event both entertaining and a way to introduce young children to the adult rodeo “rough stock” riding events of bull riding, saddle bronc, and bareback riding, and they may liken its rough-andtumble nature to the way youth sports such as football are played.
File photo
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Continued from Page 14 dreaming of becoming a professional vocalist, school degree at 17, and his first from South preferably country. Plains College at 19. Burgett grew up in a Christian farming family Whereas Burgett was staying close to home, near Shallowater, Texas. When not driving a Fowler was traveling. She gained confidence via tractor, helping in the fields, he dreamed of choir at Coronado High School, but devoted a playing rock guitar for large audiences. semester to music studies at Belmont University One day, Burgett fell for Fowler’s vocals and in Nashville, Tenn. concluded he could give her country a rock ‘n’ She recalled considering studying roll edge, with a few solos tossed in. hippotherapy, a form of occupational therapy Looking back, at age 11, Corbin’s grandmother involving horseback riding. But nothing purchased his first guitar at a Toys R Us. That replaced singing — until she auditioned for particular axe did not make him a happy camper. “The Voice” with a Carrie Underwood song “I thought it was too hard to learn,” he said. and was turned down. To be fair, he was, as he said “just a kid” and That was tough, “No one had ever told me, no one was giving lessons. ‘No,’ before,” she recalled. He estimated the first guitar cost “maybe Worried she would lose confidence, Chloe’s $50.” Fowler countered, “More like $25 if it father was the one who told her to sign up for was from Toys R Us.” the songwriting course she had once considered Regardless, he did nothing with the guitar for at South Plains College. She asked if any a couple of years; in fact, it became a source classmates were willing to help her finish a of punishment. On one of those days when he song she’d started called “Shoulda Said Yes.” was hoping that there was nothing to do, he was Burgett raised his band, whispered a hello, and told by a parent to head back into his bedroom that song wound up being on the first TexWestus and not return until he had learned three songs EP (extended play) recorded by this duo. on his “grandma’s guitar.” The seven-song EP is titled, “West Texas Burgett said, “I found out that guitar was not Wind,” and is already receiving regional airplay. as hard to learn as I thought it was.” Each TexWestus has a backup, of a sort. By the time he owned his first electric guitar, No doubt, Burgett will always have a job if he was learning chords by playing songs by his he needs it on the family farm. Fowler earned favorite bands, most from the 1980s: “Van Halen, a degree in general studies at Texas Tech and Def Leppard, and more Ratt than Metallica.” His presently also is teaching those young Stewart favorite song to play: Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Elementary School Tigers. Train.” And he was improving. But their dreams lie in entertaining the masses Being home-schooled found him making with their music and, together as TexWestus, educational strides, too. He earned his high they appear on their way.
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Parade scenes from 2018
Photos by Ruthanne Johnson
Local veterans carried flags to kickstart the Ski HI Stampede parade.
Banners • Decals Signs • T-shirts Business Cards Vehicle Lettering and More! M-F 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
56 West Highway 112 • Center (719) 849-1473 www.highvelocitygraphics.com
Sat 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
The Monte Vista High School Band’s performance of “007… The Music of James Bond” earned them the parade Judges Award.
The Monte Vista High School band took a moment to rest before beginning their parade march.
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98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Ski Hi Stampede window painting tradition
MONTE VISTA —It’s one week away from the 98th SLV Ski Hi Stampede, in Monte Vista. Evelyn Sprouse Rowe has been busy keeping alive an old tradition with Stampede window art. She said she could remember as a child looking at those paintings and watching the ladies making the windows fun with paint. That was back in the 1960s and ‘70s and adds, “Wow, I guess they impressed me enough to make me follow in their footsteps since about 2005.” In the past her husband, George helped paint the windows, but he has been busy with other endeavors, so her new helper is Danielle Kingsley So here we are in 2019 and the theme chosen for this stampede is in honor of teachers and education as Super Heroes. She hopes everyone enjoys this year’s fun Stampede window art and “here’s to a life of super learning.”
13th annual
Keeping the Dream Alive
Event
August 10, 2019 Dinner, Program & Auction
starts at 5:30 p.m. Del Norte School’s Bus Garage 1055 French St., Del Norte
Courtesy photos
Tickets: $12 Available at the Hospital & Clinics Dinner by Mountain View Restaurant www.riograndehospital.org
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Page 19
Barrel racing is an exciting sport
Courtesy photo
Rider and horse enter the turn of the cloverleaf in a barrel racing competition.
Sports fans and athletes have a plethora of sports to enjoy in this country and around the world, and those options include equestrian events. Equestrian sports have a deep-rooted history and have inspired some avid fans, including those enamored with the sport of barrel racing. Barrel racing originally was established as an event for women on the rodeo circuit. While men rode bucking broncos and bulls and competed in roping events, women displayed horse speed and stamina in barrel racing competitions. Today, barrel racing primarily is a female sport at both the collegiate and professional levels. Barrel racing can be an entertaining experience for spectators and a rewarding one for riders. The goal of the barrel race is to complete a perfect pattern in the least amount of time, so the rider who completes the pattern the fastest wins the competition. The pattern riders face is a complicated cloverleaf design. Riders can choose to enter the first barrel to the left or the right. They circle the barrel and proceed across to barrel number two, then finish out at the third barrel, where they will complete the pattern and exit the course. The approach to the first barrel should be carefully timed and executed to set the stage for the rest of the course. An official distance between barrels exists for professional races. Riders cover 90 feet between barrel one and two. There is 105 feet between barrels one and three and between barrels two and three. Finally, 60 feet marks the distance between barrels one and two and the entry/exit “score” line. According to Michigan State University Extension, barrel racing requires a mildtempered horse with natural athletic ability. Horses need to be fast, agile and intelligent. A hot-headed horse is not a good choice because he may fight the rider and cause injury. Riders also must be in tune with
their horses’ movements and sit correctly in the saddle to allow the horse to hug the sides of each barrel. Riders need to be both physically fit and capable of planning ahead to accommodate for their horses’ speed. Experts advise riders run horses through repetitive drills to improve their performance. A horse learns by release and will think he’s done a good job if a rider moves on to a new task. If riders are unhappy with a turn, they should return to the same barrel over and over until it is mastered, as riders need their horses to remember the good techniques. Horses can do drills running straight lines as well as circles. Soon both horse and rider should develop a feel for each other and move more intuitively together. Although barrel racing has been around for a long time, one of the premier governing bodies of the sport was only established 66 years ago. The Girl’s Rodeo Association was formed when 38 cowgirls came together in San Angelo, Texas, to create an organization dedicated to the promotion and advancement of women in the sport of rodeo. In 1981, the association changed its name to the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, and it remains one of the most influential sanctioning bodies in the sport. It also is the oldest women’s sports association in the United States and the only one governed entirely by women. In 2007, the WPRA instituted the My Horse’s Choice Junior Division for girls ages 17 and under. The junior division introduces a whole new group of members to the ranks of professional competition and allows mothers and daughters to compete for world points at some of the same events. Barrel racing is most popular in the western and southern areas of the United States and some parts of Canada. To learn more about a particular racing circuit or the sport of barrel racing, visit www.wpra.com. TF14A618
According to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, steer wrestling is the quickest event in professional rodeo. Steer wrestlers combine physical strength with technique to wrestle steer, which typically weigh more than twice as much as the wrestler, to the ground as quickly as possible. Steer wrestlers are often referred to as “bulldoggers” and begin each competition on horseback in a box. When the event begins, the steer is released and gets a head start, the length of which is determined by the size of the arena. Once the steer reaches the predetermined advantage point, the bulldogger is released and takes off in pursuit. Once the bulldogger reaches the steer, he slides off of his galloping
horse and hooks his right arm around the steer’s right horn while grabbing the left horn with his left hand. The bulldogger then uses his physical strength and the leverage of his position to slow the steer and wrestle it to the ground. The bulldogger’s efforts to corral the steer are aided by a person riding horseback on the opposite side of the steer. This person is referred to as a hazer and is there to prevent the steer from veering away from the bulldogger. Once the bulldogger has wrestled the steer to the ground, he must then make sure the steer is on its side and all four of its feet are pointing in the same direction. Only then is the event considered over. TF167241
Did you know?
Paul Heersink, O.D. Josh Heersink, O.D. (719) 852-3412 101 Chico Court, Suite B • Monte Vista www.montevistaeyecare.net
While in the Valley… Page 20
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
4. Early Iron Festival
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
San Luis Valley Early Iron Festival, one of the San Luis Valley’s largest events featuring more than 500 cars. This year marks the 39th anniversary from August 30-September 1. Early Iron welcomes a variety of vehicles including pickups, custom, Hundreds of vehicles from America’s “early” street rods, classics and street machines. See years in its love affair with the automobile www.earlyironclub.com/ arrive in Alamosa from all over the United Please see VALLEY on Page 21 States for their annual Labor Day weekend
1. Sand Dunes
The Great Sand Dunes National Park features the tallest sand dunes in the United States. The dune field rising above the San Luis Valley is framed with the blue peaks of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. During the summer, park rangers organize a number of nature walks and interpretive programs exploring the dunes’ geology, history and wildlife. For a more challenging walk, head into the dune field itself. Whether hiking, sliding, exploring in a dunes wheelchair — or simply playing — the Great Sand Dunes are a unique area for all to enjoy. The visitors center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The center offers an inspiring film presentation, interactive exhibits, bookstore, first aid room and back porch with viewing scope. A number of camping sites, ranging from car and RV areas to primitive backpacking sites on and off the dune field, are available. For more information, call 719-378-6300 or log onto www.nps.gov/grsa/
feet, eight and a half inches, the standard in the United States. The railroad’s locomotives burn handshoveled coal pulling trains along the highest and longest narrow gauge track in the United States from Antonito to Chama, N.M. The railroad gives passengers a unique view of the beauty of the San Juan Mountains, taking them on a twisty ride that crosses the Colorado-New Mexico border 11 times and carries them over 10,015-foot-high Cumbres Pass and through two tunnels. The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad offers daily scenic train rides from Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, crossing at historic Osier Station. Schedules and details about specials and all train rides are available at www.cumbrestoltec. com or by calling 1-888-Cumbres (286-2737).
3. Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad offers steam engine rides through breathtaking mountain valleys and over legendary La Veta pass on hundreds of miles of historic rail. Daily and weekend excursions offer riders a trip back in time on restored passenger cars that stop at historic towns and connect with the Cumbres & Toltec Railroad. The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad also offers concerts in a beautiful mountain setting during The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad the summer months. Reservations can be made was built in 1880 with three feet — narrow by calling 877-726-RAIL or visiting www. gauge — between the tracks instead of four coloradotrain.com/
2. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
All photos on Pages 20-21 are file photos
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
VALLEY
Continued from Page 20
5. Ski Hi Stampede
Colorado’s oldest outdoor rodeo, the Ski Hi Stampede in Monte Vista is a delight for the entire family. This year marks the 98th anniversary of the San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede planned July 25-28. There will be parades beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. The rodeo brings major entertainment and many of the best cowboys in the country to Monte Vista’s Ski-Hi Arena. Also enjoy dances, fireworks, carnival and chuckwagon dinner. For information call 719852-2055 or see www.skihistampede.com
6. Alamosa Round-Up
The 2019 Alamosa Round-Up, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA), is scheduled from June 20-23 with most events at the Alamosa fairgrounds. Events include ranch rodeo, barbecue, mutton bustin, cattle drive and parade, PRCA rodeo, rodeo block party, demolition derby and cowboy church. The highlight will be Saturday with a round-UP Concert featuring PARMALEE. Buy tickets at The Colorado Welcome Center and Alamosa Big R. See www.alamosaroundup.com
7. Creede Repertory Theatre
Creede Repertory Theatre is a professional theatre company located in the historic town of Creede. CRT’s award-winning company produces the best of contemporary and classic theatre from the end of May through September. Each year, CRT produces several plays in rotation, hosts numerous musical events and concerts, exhibits the best regional artists in its two lobby galleries, and offers exciting educational programming. This year CRT celebrates its 54th season. Plays include Peter and the Starcatcher, Ripcord, Little Shop of Horrors, Pride and Prejudice, BOOMTOWN! and Hazardous Materials. Tickets are available at the box office on 124 N. Main Street in Creede,
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Page 21
calling toll free: 866-658-2540 or going to the web site: www.creederep.org
8. Los Caminos Antiguos
Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway connects many of the San Luis Valley’s attractions, such as the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railway and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. The journey begins on Highway 17 on Cumbres Pass. As Highway 17 descends into the San Luis Valley, it follows the Conejos River and several perfect fishing spots. The byway continues through Conejos, home of the oldest church in Colorado, then to the De Vargas petroglyph crossing site. It then leads to Manassa, the home of Jack Dempsey, and continues east through the foothills of the Sangre de Cristos. The byway continues into San Luis, the first town in Colorado. The byway then journeys north to Fort Garland. As the byway follows the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, several natural wonders await: Zapata Falls; the Great Sand Dunes National Park; the historic Medano Ranch; and the San Luis Lakes State Park and Wildlife Area. The byway then turns south near two of the Valley’s more colorful attractions, the The historic Fort Garland Museum takes UFO Watchtower and the Colorado Gators, visitors back in time to the era of Kit Carson, an alligator farm just north of Alamosa on commandant of the fort from 1866-1867, Hwy 17. The “ancient road” ends its journey and earlier commanders. in Alamosa. The museum features displays of the life of officers and enlisted men during the years the fort served southern Colorado. Walk the parade ground of the fort and tour the adobe buildings, which feature a re-creation of the commandant’s quarters during Carson’s time. Rich in military The Silver Thread Scenic Byway passes history, Fort Garland also highlights the folk through some of the most scenic areas and art and culture of the Hispanic community towns in the San Juan Mountains. Leaving the town of South Fork, the byway begins its journey along the Rio Grande. The byway then enters the Rio Grande National Forest, where it travels through steep cañons of Serving all of your residential volcanic tuff before crossing an alpine valley, home to herds of deer and elk. and commercial electric needs Miners built the town of Creede in the spirit of exploration. Outside the town, a driving tour of the area’s mining heritage winds through the rugged geologic formations. Between Creede and Lake City, the highway 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday- Friday passes The Slumgullion Earthflow, a geologic form that began 700 years ago. The Silver Tread ends at a second mining town, Lake City.
10. Fort Garland
9. Silver Thread
B&C Electric
(719) 852-5518 1054 Hwy 285 • Monte Vista
in southern Colorado. The Fort Garland Museum and Visitor Center is located in Fort Garland, 25 miles east of Alamosa off U.S. Highway 160. The Fort Garland Museum and Visitor Center is open year-round. For more information call 719-379-3512.
Drink responsibly! Come by and cool off with a beer! Great selection of Beer, Wine & Spirits!
Coldest Beer in Town
Southwest Liquor LLC 852-9660
2011 Grand Ave. • Monte Vista Extended Stampede Hours 8 a.m.-Midnight Thurs.-Sat.
SLV Garden Center, LLC
The Sawyer Brothers 719-852 GROW (4769) 1669 N Hwy 285 • Monte Vista (north of Dos Rio Restaurant)
Celebrating our Third Year in Business with soil and nutrient sales!
No orders too big or too small! Specializing in customer service
Summer Hours — Mon.-Fri. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. • Closed Saturday & Sunday
ECODYNAMICS, Inc. IRRIGATION ENGINEERING
Well & Pump Services Specializing in Well Rehabilitation
Well Relining, Complete Pump Systems including VFDs and SCADA Systems Steel & Metal division offers precision CNC machinery & complete machine & welding shop.
719.852.2662
5492 East US Hwy 160 • Monte Vista License #1488
Free Estimates All Insurance Claims Accepted Glasurit Waterborne Paint… Environmentally Friendly! 852-5700 859 Acequia Dr. • Monte Vista
Page 22
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Moments from 2018 Stampede
Photo by Ruthanne Johnson
A volunteer at the Rotary Chuckwagon dinner dished up barbeque beef sandwiches Bucking bronco ‘Rosie’ of Hi Lo ProRodeo kicks up dirt trying to throw Leighton Berry. and baked beans. Berry took the top qualifying ride of day number one scoring 85.5 points. Photo by Stephen Jiron
Photo by Stephen Jiron
Josh Siggins and Victor Aros combine to loop horns and heels during the team roping event at Ski Hi Stampede’s first night of PRCA. The Arizona team worked quickly on night one registering the time to beat of 5.7 seconds.
Photo by Ruthanne Johnson
Monte Vista High School band boosters cooked up burgers to benefit the band program.
Peyton Sanchez and his family enjoyed a backstage moment with country music star Gary Allan. Courtesy photo
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Page 23
Stampede carnival offers fun for all
By Helen S mith
M O N T E V I S TA — T h e Wr i g h t ’s Amusements Carnival is expected to be at full capacity for 2019. Based out of Elbert, Colo. Wright’s Amusements has been in operation for over 43 years. The carnival is a part of Stampede tradition and features a variety of attractions from children’s rides to newer varieties of thrill rides. In 1962, Floyd Wright and his two brothers, Frank and Charles, launched a traveling carnival that put family fun first. A half century later, Floyd Wright’s nephew, John Ring, runs the show in the same treasured tradition. “My life — my heritage—is all about making sure people have a great time,” says Ring. “What better ‘job’ is there?” There are several options that are available for purchasing carnival tickets. Pre-order armbands are available at the Ski Hi Stampede Office for $25 and at the carnival ticket offices for $30. On Wednesday, July 24, the carnival will hold a canned food drive. Those who bring one canned food item will be able to purchase an armband for $25. On Thursday, July 25 $1 rides will be offered from 3 to 7 p.m. There will be fun for all ages at the 98th Ski Hi Stampede and the attractions that Wright’s Amusements provides will be no File photo exception. Based out of Elbert, Wright’s Amusements will be a part of the Ski-Hi Stampede again this month with a variety of attractions.
Bull riders’ gear protective and functional
Many fans of sports like baseball, basketball and football enjoy wearing jerseys of their favorite players when attending a game, watching at home or gathering with fellow fans to watch somewhere in public. While it’s nearly impossible to attend a professional sporting event today without seeing someone decked out in the same attire as their favorite player, such sightings are less likely to occur within the sport of rodeo. Unlike baseball and basketball uniforms, the gear worn by many professional bull riders has more practical applications, namely to protect riders as much as possible. The following is a rundown of the gear professional bull riders wear during competition. * Headgear: While many professional bull riders are allowed to wear cowboy hats during competitions, the Professional Bull Riders, Inc., mandates that all new members who turned 18 years of age on or after October 15, 2012 wear helmets. Those born before that date do not have to wear helmets, but some choose to do
so to protect their heads from potentially threatening blows. In addition, bull riders can wear face masks to shield their faces and jaws from injury. * Vest: A protective vest is worn by bull riders to absorb shock and dissipate any blows to the body. The vest also was designed to protect riders’ torsos from punctures caused by direct contact with the bulls’ hooves and horns during competition. * Glove: Bull riders only wear one glove, which is on the hand they use to grip the bull rope. This leather glove makes it easier to grip the rope and offers some measure of protection to riders’ hands and fingers. * Chaps: Riders wear chaps on their legs, and professionals often wear chaps emblazoned with logos of sponsors. Chaps offer extra protection for a rider’s legs against the hooves and horns of the bull. * Bull rope: The bull rope, which is equipped with a handle braided into the rope, is a rider’s only anchor during a ride. The rope is flat and braided from nylon or grass and goes around the bull’s girth area
Courtesy photo
behind the animal’s front legs. * Boots: Bull riders’ boots include a special spur ridge on the heel, and this helps their spurs to remain in place. Some riders wear pull-on boots, while others prefer boots that lace up. * Spurs: Spurs help bull riders stay in
position once the ride begins. These spurs come equipped with dull rowels, which are the revolving disks at the end of spurs. The rowels are dull so they do not injure or cut the skin of the bull. More information about bull riding is available at www.pbr.com. TF147352
98th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Page 24
98
th
ANNUAL
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
San Luis Valley
Ski-Hi Stampede Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Ski-Hi Park Monte Vista
July 25, 26, 27 & 28, 2019
Concert: World Class Rodeos Double Randy Houser & Walker Hayes Friday Evening - 7 p.m.(Family Day) Saturday - 7 p.m. • Sunday - 2 p.m. Rodeo Announcer - Boyd Polhamus, Multiple Years as PRCA Announcer of the Year Stace Smith, Multiple Years as PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year
Rotary Chuck Wagon Dinner Thursday, July 25th 5:30 p.m.
Stampede Dances
Thursday, July 25 7:30 p.m. Ski-Hi Park
Parade
July 26 & 27 10 a.m.
Monte Vista Band Booster Hamburger Fry
July 25, 26 & 27 • 9 p.m. July 26 & 27 $ 10 at the door 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Sunflower Bank parking garage
Christian Cowboys’ Service Sunday, July 28th • 10 a.m. • Ski-Hi Park
.....................................................................Presale Friday & Saturday, July 26th & 27th Family Day ..................................................$30 (Husband, wife and up to 5 children under 18) Box Seats ....................................................$16 Reserve Seating - Adult ..............................$15 Reserve Seating - Child ..............................$8 General Admission - Adult ..........................$13 General Admission - Child ..........................$8 Arena Seats Reserved.................................$16 Country Western Dance ..............................$10 Sunday, July 28th Senior Citizen Day ......................................$5 (General Admission - 65 & over)
Saturday, July 27 First 100 Youth (under 21 years old) with paid admission will receive a FREE Commemorative Stampede T-Shirt!
Dances
Reserved $45 —
Premium Reserved $50 —
Friday & Saturday - 9 p.m.
10 at the Door
$
www.skihistampede.com Stampede Ticket Office, 852-2055
719-852-2055
at Ski-Hi Stampede Dance
Pre-Sale At Door
Rodeo Tickets Available At:
Ticket Information
Youth Night
Concert Tickets: General Admission $35 $40
Door $35
PINK SATURDAY
$18 $17 $10 $15 $8 $18 $10
Help support the
$5
Family Day at the Rodeo Friday, July 26 7 p.m.
Local SLV Amateur Events & Professional Slack at 1 p.m.
Wright’s Amusements Carnival
Canned Food Drive Bring 2 cans of food items to the Carnival & you can buy an all-day carnival pass for $25
Wednesday, July 24