OFFICIAL PROGRAM
A T S 1 0 1
L A U NN
Western Fun Along the 101
JULY 10-17, 2022 WWW.FORTUNARODEO.COM (707) 725-3959
FREE
LANDMARK R E A L
E S T A T E
www.landmarkhumboldt.com
Landmark proudly welcomes you to the
Fortuna Rodeo!
CALL US TODAY!
TWO LOCATIONS SERVING ALL OF HUMBOLDT COUNTY FERNDALE 334 Main St. 786.9300
JEREMY STANFIELD Broker Owner
JESSICA VAN PELT-STRETCH Broker Associate LIC# 01204126
LIC# 01728836
LIC# 01983594
LAREESA STANFIELD Sales Associate
DEVON BOLLAN Sales Associate
MELINDA KORNDER Sales Associate
ANDREA VARGAS-LOPEZ Sales Associate
LIC# 01339550
LEAH PRICE Sales Associate
MOLLY WICKE Sales Associate
FORTUNA 125 12th St. 725.2852
Dedicated to keeping our community safe. Humboldt County COVID-19 Approval Certificate
L ANDM ARKHUMBOLDT
LIC# 02070934
LIC# 02080831
L ANDM ARKHUMBOLDT
LIC# 01035959
LIC# 02155917
L I C E N S E # 018 5 7 15 2
Welcome To Fortuna, Rod eo Fans! 1665 Main Street, Fortuna, CA & 541 Wildwood Ave, Rio Dell, CA Monday-Saturday: 6:00am - 5:30pm Sunday: 7:00am - 5:00pm
fuel your hustle 2
FORTUNA RODEO 2022
WWW.SHOTZCOFFEE .COM
P M m A Je je C K c P H h G H D R n
CONTENTS
T HE O T ! E L M A O U C L N N WE 101ST A
2022 Rodeo Committee ............................................................4 President’s Message ....................................................................5 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors ........................................6-7 Schedule of Events .................................................................... 9 2021 Rodeo Winners .................................................................. 11 2022 Fortuna Rodeo Grand Marshal: Mel Berti ................................................................................. 13 Friday Night Bullfighters Only and Motorsports .....14-15 Food Events All Week ............................................................. 17 Kids Events All Week ..........................................................18-19 Cover Artist Ryan Jensen ....................................................... 21 Saturday Night Bulls, Broncs, Bands & Brews .................23 Rodeo Events ............................................................................. 27 Bull Riding ..............................................................................28 Tie Down Roping.................................................................28 Saddle Bronc ......................................................................... 29 Steer Wrestling .................................................................... 30 Ribbon Roping....................................................................... 31 Team Roping ..........................................................................32 Breakaway Roping ................................................................33 Barrel Racing ......................................................................... 34 2021 Fortuna Rodeo Fun Run Results .................................35 The History of the Fortuna Rodeo ............................. 37-38 Saddle and Buckle Awards ................................................... 39
310 F St., Eureka CA 95501 • (707) 442-1400 Fax (707) 442-1401 • www.northcoastjournal.com
Publisher Melissa Sanderson melissa@northcoastjournal.com Arts & Features Editor Jennifer Fumiko Cahill jennifer@northcoastjournal.com Calendar Editor Kali Cozyris calendar@northcoastjournal.com Production Manager Holly Harvey holly@northcoastjournal.com Graphic Design/Production Heidi Bazán Beltrán, Dave Brown, Miles Eggleston, Rory Hubbard, Renee Thompson ncjads@northcoastjournal.com
Advertising Manager Kyle Windham kyle@northcoastjournal.com Senior Advertising Representative Bryan Walker bryan@northcoastjournal.com Advertising Representative Natalie Krishna Das natalie@northcoastjournal.com Classified Advertising Mark Boyd classified@northcoastjournal.com Bookkeeper Deborah Henry billing@northcoastjournal.com Office Manager Michelle Dickinson michelle@northcoastjournal.com
On the Cover 2022 Fortuna Rodeo poster art by Ryan Jensen. Read more about the artist and this year’s poster on page 21.
Photo by Carol Niles Photography
OFFICIAL FORTUNA RODEO PROGRAM 2022 is a publication of North Coast Journal Inc. © 2022 Entire contents copyrighted. No portion may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission.
WWW.FORTUNARODEO.COM FORTUNA RODEO 2022
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2022 Rodeo Committee Left to Right back row: Todd Fulton (black hat) – Merchant Contributions Chad Lake – Saturday Night Russ Renner – Friday Night Ben McWhorter – Sponsorships/PR Jesse Renner – Friday Night Dave Jackson – Secretary Cody Waddle – Beverages Mike Johnson – Grounds Doug Burgess Parking and Security Jim Hinrichs – Parade Gannon Chapman Parade Committe Hec Wood – Street Entertainment Left to Right front row: Javier Luna – Barbecue Director Wayne Tomasini – Beverages Shannon McWhorter – President/Tickets Robb Foley – Barbecue Bob Natt – Grounds Pat Whitchurch – Treasurer Dave Victorine – Vice President/Security Ricky Ruud – Street Entertainment Front and Center: Roy Curless – Carnival/Concessions
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FORTUNA RODEO 2022
Fortuna Rodeo Association, Inc. (a nonprofit organization) is sponsored jointly by the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce and the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department.
Serious Felonies Cultivation/Drug Possession DUI/DMV Hearings Domestic Violence Restraining Orders Pre-Arrest Counseling
2022 Fortuna Rodeo President’s Message Western Fun Along the 101!
FREE CONSULTATION For Defense Work Only
W
elcome to the 101st Anniversary of the Fortuna Rodeo! Keeping it Fortuna style, this year’s rodeo is packed with a week’s worth of fun events for the whole family and we hope you come on down to the friendly city of Fortuna to enjoy them all! This is a community event, and everyone pitches in to make it happen. A big shout out to the City of Fortuna, the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce, and the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department for being the backbone in making the Fortuna Rodeo the biggest event of the year! A tip of the hat goes out to Mel Berti who is our Grand Marshal for 2022. Mel
has been a dedicated servant in our community for over 60 years, having served on many boards such as, the Fortuna City Council, Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department as well as the Fortuna Rodeo Board, to name a few. Be sure to say hello to Mel and thank him for his service to your community during the week. As always, we look forward to seeing you at the 2022 Fortuna Rodeo and hope you have some “Western Fun Along the 101! Happy Trails, Shannon McWhorter President Fortuna Rodeo Association
732 5th Street, Suite C Eureka, CA 95501 info@humboldtjustice.com www.humboldtjustice.com N
O
RT
RN H C OAST JOU
AL
707.268.8600
Kathleen Bryson Attorney
Former Humboldt County Deputy District Attorney Member of National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) Member of California DUI Lawyers Association
“Mainly beyond the mains for 81 years” Fortuna Office (707) 725-4465
926 Main Street Fortuna, Ca 95540
Arcata Office (707) 822-4851
1907 Heindon Road Arcata, Ca 95521
sequoiagas.com
Welcome Rodeo Fans! FORTUNA RODEO 2022
5
Thank You to Our 101st A
FORTUNA
WYCKOFF’S PLUMBING
BUGENIG FENCING MICHELLE BUSHNELL Humboldt County 2nd Dist. Supervisor
ELLOWAY AND WONENBURG DDS
WYATT, WHITCHURCH & ANDERSON, INC Lisa Fryrear
EDGMON FAMILY 6
FORTUNA RODEO 2022
BEVERAGE PLUS
Law Offices of Patrick J. Barry
The North Coast Hitching Post
st Anniversary Sponsors!
American Ag Credit Bear River Casino and Resort Eel River Brewing Company Lithia Chrysler Dodge of Eureka Mercer-Fraser Company Redwood Capital Bank Sequoia Gas Company North Coast Journal
• • • • • • • • • • • •
DCI Construction Harbers Insurance Agency Humboldt County Edward Jones Offices Jack Hurst Trucking MCI Construction & Engineering Northwood Auto Plaza Pacific Pastures Beef Providence Ray’s Food Place US Bank Valley Pacific Petroleum Whitchurch Engineering
• • • • • • • • • • •
Boot Barn Bugenig Fencing Coast Central Credit Union Express Employment Professionals Fortuna ACE Hardware Greg Seiler Advisor Edward Jones Harland Law Firm Hennessy Funds Hohman and Associates Humboldt Beer Distributors Michelle Bushnell Humboldt County 2nd Dist. Supervisor Papé Machinery PG&E Sunbelt Rentals The Redwood Hotel Tri Counties Bank Vern’s Furniture Wild Souls Ranch
All Around Champion
JACK HURST TRUCKING
Silver Spur
Service With Solutions
™
LL nd
t
Centurion • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • •
Top Hand • • • • • • • •
HUMBOLDT AUCTION YARD
WINDY POINT FENCE CO.
KRED
92.3 FM
• • • • • • • •
3B Farms Baird Engineering Beverage Plus Burgess Electric Cindy’s Styling Center Coldwell Banker Six Rivers Real Estate Cornerstone Realty Demello, McCauley, McReynolds and Holland Double D Steakhouse Elloway and Wonenburg DDS EJH Construction Forbusco GHD Engineering Green’s Fortuna Pharmacy Hensel’s Ace Hardware Humboldt Auction Yard
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Humboldt Redwood Hummel Wheel & Tire Johnny’s Flooring Landmark Realty Les Schwab Tire Lisa Fryrear State Farm Insurance Mel & Grace McLean Foundation North Coast Hitching Post Redwood Empire Roofing Redwood Glass and Windows Redwood Rural Health Reynolds RV Shotz Coffee Sport & Cycle Wyatt, Whitchurch & Anderson, Inc.
Gary Edgmon Memorial All Around Saddle • Edgmon Family • Sequoia Gas Company
Award Buckle Sponsors • Tom McWhorter All Around Cowboy: MCI Construction • Fred Barry Memorial Top Hand: Pat Barry • All Around Cowgirl: Jack Hurst Trucking
Rodeo Event Sponsors • Bull Riding: Bear River Casino and Resort • Saddle Bronc Riding: Humboldt Fence Company • Ribbon Roping: US Bank • Tie Down Roping: Providence Health • Breakaway Roping: Eel River Brewing Company • Steer Wrestling: Harber Insurance • Barrel Racing: Ray’s Food Place • Team Roping Heading: DCI Builders • Team Roping Heeler: The Playroom
Barbecue Sponsor • Pacific Pastures Organic Grass Fed Beef
Bucking Chute Sponsors • • • • • •
American Ag Credit Edward Jones Fortuna Grocery Outlet Sequoia Gas Windy Point Fencing Vern’s Furniture
Media Sponsors
• North Coast Journal • Redwood News • Big Red Country
FORTUNA RODEO 2022
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C RYS TA L L E W I S
WELCOME TO TH E 101 ST
FORTUNA RODEO! SERVING H UMBOLDT
Your Home Project Central! Hours of Operation Mon - Sat: 7:30a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
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FORTUNA RODEO 2022
(707) 725-5111 1784 Smith Lane Fortuna, CA. 95540
I NSU R A N C E PRO DUC TS Auto • Home • Business • Property • Life • Health
1336 Main Street, Fortuna | 707.725.1135 Lic # 0 D7 7118
Please Note
Schedule of Events Sunday • July 10
Wednesday • July 13
FORTUNA RODEO RUN 5K, presented by Six Rivers Running Club. 9:00 a.m. at 12th & Main in Fortuna. Visit www.6rrc.com/2022.html for details.
CARNIVAL Noon, Rohner Park. STREET GAMES ALL children’s events are free! 6-8:30 p.m., Main Street. Stick horse race, egg toss, kids’ bounce house, kids’ dummy roping, Tony Johnston Penny Scramble (age 3 and under with parents, 4-5 years, 6-7+ years). Hamburgers and hot dogs provided by Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department’s Muster Team. JUNIOR RODEO ALL admissions are free this year! 9 a.m. till end, Rodeo Grounds in Rohner
Monday • July 11
Fortuna Chamber of Commerce presents the 2022 Chili Cookoff! Get details and entry forms at fortunarodeo.com.
Tuesday • July 12
CARNIVAL Noon, Rohner Park. Wrist bands $35.
RODEO GROUNDS 9th St
P St
Park St
N St
16th St
15th St
12th St
11th St
to HWY 101
PARADE ROUTE
MAIN ST
16th St
15th St
L St
14th St
13th St
8th St
7th St
RO
K St J St
12th St
I St
FORTUNA
HN
N FORTUNA BLVD
9th St
K St
P St
10th St
N St
ROHNER PARK
Scenic Loo p
O St
O St
TICKETS for all Fortuna Rodeo events are available online. CASH ONLY will be accepted at the gate. PRE-SALE TICKETS and Packages are available! ATMs will be on site. PETS: Fortuna Rodeo Week events are pet free. Please leave your pets at home. All childrens’ events are FREE.
ER
VI
LL
RO
AD
Smith Lane
Welcome to the Fortuna Rodeo!
◊ Authorized UPS shipper ◊ PG&E Payment Center ◊ Copies & Faxes ◊ Notary ◊ Greeting Cards & Gifts
◊ Scans ◊ Word Processing ◊ Office Supplies ◊ Custom Forms
707-725-6542 ; Fax 707-725-6541 print@horizonbusinessproducts.com www.horizonbusinessproducts.com
Thursday • July 14th JUNIOR RODEO 9 a.m. till end, Rodeo Grounds in Rohner Park. Barrel Racing Jackpot following the Junior Rodeo! Signup on site! CARNIVAL Noon, Rohner Park. FIREMAN’S GAMES Time: 6:30 p.m.
Friday • July 15
CARNIVAL Noon, Rohner Park. BULLFIGHTERS ONLY NIGHT Sponsored by Bear River Casino, Humboldt Fence Co., Lithia Chrysler Dodge and Mercer-Fraser Co. Gates open at 5 p.m., Rodeo Grounds in Rohner Park. Live music, Quadiators, Bullfighters Only Show.. Tickets: $25 adults, $15 under 12, $50 VIP arena seating. Get tickets and entry forms at fortunarodeo.com.
Saturday • July 16 E
to HWY 101
1137 Main St, Fortuna, CA 95540
Park. Get entry forms at fortunarodeo. com, and find FORTUNAJRRODEO on Facebook.
FORTUNA KIWANIS PANCAKE BREAKFAST 7 a.m., Rohner Park Cook Shack. CARNIVAL Noon, Rohner Park. All day wrist bands available, $35. PARADE 11 a.m., Main Street. Entry forms at
TRINITY DIESEL, INC. BEACOM CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
5065 Boyd Rd., Arcata
(Off Giuntoli Lane near the 299 Exit)
Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m-5 p.m. • Sat. by appt.
(707) 826-8400
trinitydiesel@trinitydiesel.com
General Contractor License No. 168923
(707) 725-3323 659 Main Street, PO Box 457, Fortuna, CA 95540
fortunarodeo.com. This year’s theme is “Western Fun Along the 101!” Get parade entry forms at fortunarodeo.com. RODEO Sponsored by Lithia Chrysler Dodge. 1:30 p.m., Rodeo Grounds. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 under 12. Get tickets at fortunarodeo.com. BULLS, BRONCS, BANDS & BREWS Sponsored by Whitchurch Engineering, Les Schwab Tires, Tom HermanAttorney at Law, Grocery Outlet, and Mercer-Fraser Co. At the rodeo grounds. Gates and music at 6 p.m. Mutton Bustin and Steer Riding at 7 p.m., signups online only at fortunarodeo.com. Rescue Race and Hyde Race, $500 added, $50 entry fee per team. Call Chad 707-498-1411 to enter. Bull and Bronc riding at 8 p.m. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 under 12. Get tickets at fortunarodeo.com.
Sunday • July 18th
BARBECUE Sponsored by Pacific Pastures Organic Grass-fed Beef. 11 a.m., Rohner Park. Live music. Tickets: $20. Get tickets at fortunarodeo.com. CARNIVAL Noon, Rohner Park. All day wrist bands available, $35. RODEO Sponsored by Del Reka Distributing. 1:30 p.m., Rodeo Grounds. Tickets: $10 adults $5 under 12. Get tickets at fortunarodeo.com. ✪
Thank you Humboldt County for 22years! Framing for almost anything!!! Colors, textures,
Ho w Ha ’s it ngi ng
all kinds of
From the Farmer, Rancher, Logger or Fisherman to the Home Do-It-Yourselfer…
… TRINITY DIESEL HAS YOU COVERED!
Custom picture framing & preservation of peoples
possibilities!
707-725-9769
treasures.
758 14th St, Fortuna, CA 95540 FORTUNA RODEO 2022
9
TWICE-A-YEAR
SHOE SALE!
Locally Owned and Operated
Come in early for best selection
The store that still measures your feet
FAMILY SHOES & REPAIR
Open Tuesday-Friday 10am-6pm Rodeo Saturday 9am-12pm Marilyn Strehl, C.PED Certified Pedorthic ID #2262
12th & Main, Fortuna • 707.725.2610
1
S ave 3 W ays
Quality Name Brands You Can Trust!
2
Guaranteed Low Prices Every Day!
3
Service After The Sale!
1027 Main Street, Fortuna • redwoodappliancecenter.com Sales 725-7918 • Service 725-7919
FOR GENERATIONS TO COME American AgCredit has been a trusted partner to agriculture for over 100 years. In that time, we have worked with many family-owned operations that are still thriving today. Whether you are buying your first piece of ground or expanding the family farm, we can help with the right financial solutions and unmatched expertise in agriculture.
Call 800.800.4865 today or visit AgLoan.com/start-your-future A Part of the Farm Credit System.
10
FORTUNA RODEO 2022
Equal Opportunity Lender.
2021 Fortuna Rodeo Winners Photos courtesy of Carol Niles Photography
Law Offices of Patrick J. Barry
Fred Barry Memorial Humboldt Top Hand Buckle Quintin McWhorter Sponsored by Law Office of Patrick J. Barry
Tom McWhorter Memorial All-Around Buckle Quintin McWhorter Sponsored by MCI Contractors
Gary Edgmon Memorial Tri County All-Around Saddle – Quintin McWhorter Sponsored by American Ag Credit and Sequoia Gas Co.
All Around Cowgirl – Shanna Gaskie Sponsored by Pacific Pastures Organic Grassfed Beef
WYCKOFF’S PLUMBING
Calf Roping – J. Cody Jones Sponsored by Providence Health
Mike Mora Memorial Steer Wrestling – Walt Spencer Sponsored by Wyckoff Plumbing
Break-Away Roping – Shanna Gaskie Sponsored by Eel River Brewing
Barrel Racing – Hayle Gibson Sponsored by Edward Jones
Local Team Roping Lonnie Manning and Cody Box Sponsored by DCI Construction
Ribbon Roping Quintin McWhorter Sponsored by US Bank Team Roping – Cory Fitze and Adam Fitze Sponsored by The Playroom
Saddle Bronc Riding – Quintin McWhorter Sponsored by Humboldt Fence Company
Bull Riding – Kyle McCarty Sponsored by Pump & Play FORTUNA RODEO 2022
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CE LE
AN
NIV ER S
Build to edge of the document Margins are just a safe area
• Landscape Design Build • Commercial, Residential and Estate Maintenance • Irrigation Design, Install & Repair • Artistic Pruning • Turf Management • Drainage Design and Equipment services • Brush Clearing / Fire Defensible Space clearing • Pest and weed control organic or chemical
12
FORTUNA RODEO 2022
Y! AR
IN T A R B
HE T G
A RODEO 101 YE N U T R AR FO
THE 126th ANNUAL
“T
!”
me like fair i t o n ’s tim e r e e h
Mel Berti
Grand Marshal Mel Berti By Meg Wall-Wild
A
ctions speak louder than words” is a phrase used so often that it can lose its meaning. But not with Mel Berti. He lives it. If you live in Fortuna, you know Berti in one way or another. As a life-long resident he probably knows you, too. Berti was a butcher by trade at Hoby’s in Scotia. But even when he put the cleaver down, he kept his sleeves rolled up. He served as Fortuna’s mayor (twice), a city councilman (32 years) and as volunteer fireman (59 years). Mel Berti’s hands have held many reins over the years, guiding Fortuna through more than a lifetime of community service. Long hours in meetings led to many enjoyable events that keep the city hopping, including the Fortuna Rodeo, on whose board he’s served for 28 years. Some of the best childhood memories start on Main Street during Fortuna Rodeo Week and this year Berti will shepherd them along as grand marshal of the Rodeo Parade. If you still think you don’t know Mel Berti, close your eyes and listen because you may recognize his voice from announcing Fortuna High School basketball and football games. He was a fixture on
“
KWPT 100.3 and 102.7 FM, calling Huskies football with Tag Wotherspoon. His service to high school sports was recognized when the local baseball field was renamed in his honor. The hours Mel Berti has invested in his beloved hometown were recognized with the 2006 Fortuna Citizen of the Year award. But that did not leave Berti resting on his laurels. Even after retiring from professional commitments, he continues to pitch in. Today, tomorrow and into next week. He has yet to hang up his fireman’s helmet, even serving as Fire Commissioner. When asked about the best part of his service, Berti is proud to save people with the Jaws of Life he helped acquire. Mel Berti was named Grand Marshal in 2020 but rodeo and its attending accolades were deferred. Fortuna is lucky to benefit from his good works, so let him know. Find a good spot on the route and cheer on Grand Marshal Mel Berti for his service of almost 120 years (combined, of course!) to Fortuna. That is some heavy math for someone who has lived just over 80 years. Such a grand total from a dedicated grand marshal deserves a grand old cheer! ✪
Save at the gate & grab your pre-sale tickets early
AUGUST 18 - 28 28,, 2022 MAIN GATES OPEN AT NOON CLOSED MONDAY, AUG. 22
ONLINE TICKETS & COMPETITIVE EXHIBITS
humboldtcountyfair.org FORTUNA RODEO 2022
13
BFO Rematch on the Boil By Meg Wall-Wild
B
ull Fighters Only brings Sequoia Cup excitement to the Fortuna Rodeo on Friday, July 15 at 7 p.m. Will 2021 Sequoia Cup champ Beau Schueth beat 2021 Pendleton Whisky BFO champ Weston Rutkowski again this year? They are already geared up for battle. As of press time, Schueth is ranked No. 1, leading No. 2 Rutkowski by 1,750 on the 2022 Pendleton leader board. Can you imagine powerhouse Rutkowski
breathing down your neck? Again? Sit on edge as the outsized bravery of rodeo clowns saves another bucked off rider from certain stomping. The clock ticks off seconds as you hold on to your Hooey hat. The massive bull spins, back hooves kicking the sky. Will Schueth stay on? Get $50 VIP seating to be ever so close in the Smell the Bull Zone. Tickets are $25, $15 for kids 12 and under. Order online to appease that “I can’t wait!” fan in your life or pay at
31 July 22, ST
23, & 24
Quadiators battle with bats and balloons. Photo by Carol Niles Photography
The Most Beautiful Stones in the World
CHAPMAN’S
Gem, Mineral Shop & Museum
JUDGED SHOW • SHOW & SHINE • ARTISANS FAIRE PIT BBQ DINNER • SWAP MEET & CAR CORRAL ANTIQUE TRACTOR & FARM EQUIPMENT • CRUISE DRIVE-IN MOVIE • POKER RUN • BURNOUT CONTEST For more information go to www.redwoodautoxpo.org or call 707-572-7855
14
FORTUNA RODEO 2022
Local Fossils • Geodes • Agates Crystals • Stone Carvings • Amethyst Petrified Wood • Thunder Eggs (707) 725-5762 • (707) 496-7280 1455 Sandy Prairie Court Suite A-1 (OFF RIVERWALK DRIVE) Fortuna
Hwy. 101, 4 Mi. S. of Fortuna
707-725-2714
RETA
IL SA
725-2608
FORTUNA IRON
LES!
2832 Old State Hwy• Fortuna CA 95540 (Across the highway from Hansen’s)
CUSTOM WELDING & FABRICATION
Gates, Railings, Stairs, Custom, Ornamental Iron, Lumber Racks, RVs, Trucks, Trailers and Heavy Equipment Repair
Certified Welding
Punching, Shearing & Forming • Structural Steel • Stainless Steel • Aluminum
In Shop & Mobile Service 725-2608 • www.fortunairon.com
Your #1 Custom Diesel Performance Specialists 1-800-575-0229 (8-5) 707-725-3307 (8-5) bponci@yahoo.com 770 S. Fortuna Blvd., Fortuna CA 95540 See the Bullfighters Only show on Friday night. Facebook the gate. After the dust settles, the Quadiators enter the ring. Where else can you watch adults flail wildly at each other as they speed around on careening quads? Got the urge to protect a balloon on your helmet from thrashing bats while your driver dodges to the delight of screaming spectators? Pony up $40 per two-person team for a chance to win $500. Text your name and number to (707) 496-1055 or (707) 496-6038. Read the liability legalese (www. fortunarodeo.com/quadiators-entries) and
sign on the line. If there’s still room on the roster, you can enter from 5 to 6:30 p.m. before the first bull bucks. Now is your chance to kick up your heels after those antsy bulls got to kick up theirs! The Remedy gets you moving to the ABCs of country rock classic covers from Aerosmith, Brooks and Dunn, and Johnny Cash. They even bring the Big Dolly energy with Ms. Parton and more. Be grateful you don’t have to dance with the bulls (they have two left hooves). ✪
SALES • RV PARTS • SERVICE
W Y A T T, W H I T C H U R C H & A N D E R S O N , I N C .
BOOKKEEPING & TAX SERVICE ENROLLED TO PRACTICE BEFORE THE IRS GARY L. WYATT, E.A. • PATRICK E. WHITCHURCH, E.A. CAROLYN M. ANDERSON, CPA • GREGORY A. THOMSEN, E.A. 804 12TH STREET • BOX 864 • FORTUNA CA 95540 TEL. (707) 725-5109 • FAX (707) 725-2212
FIFTH WHEELS • BRAKE SER VICES • AXLE AND BEARINGS TRAVEL TRAILERS • HORSE TRAILERS • STOCK TRAILERS APPLIANCE REPAIRS • ELEC TRICAL SYSTEMS • MOTOR COACHES UTILIT Y TRAILERS • TOWING ACCESSORIES • INSURANCE REPAIRS
988 HWY 36 FORTUNA, CA (707) 725-3426 FORTUNA RODEO 2022
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A.M. BAIRD
ENGINEERING & SURVEYING • • • • •
Design & Consulting Special Reports Permit Acquisition Building Design Surveying & Topography Allan M. Baird Principal
Welcome Rodeo Fans! 16
FORTUNA RODEO 2022
707-725-5182 1257 Main St., Fortuna CA 95540 ambairdengineers@gmail.com
101 Gallons of Beans By Meg Wall-Wild
B
elt bust your way into the next rodeo century with some fantastic grub at the 101st annual Fortuna Rodeo Week! (You needed a new belt anyway.) A break from cooking is always appreciated by whoever runs the family chuck wagon, especially in summer. The menus on offer are sure to satisfy all appetites from buckaroo pangs to cowboy-sized hunger. Slake your dusty trail thirst with a refreshing beer from Six Rivers Brewery or cold milk if you are too young to see over the saddle horn. Feeding the family is a civic duty at the Rodeo! Nonprofits sling up the grub to fund community activities. Your noble hunger supports noble deeds. Boost the Boosters and 4-H, or spread childhood joy with Kiwanis pancakes and maple syrup. Enjoy that plate of CattleWomen’s tri-tip on an existential level. Barbecue transcends mere food. On Monday, July 11, It’s a hot Chili Cook-off summer! Rodeo Week’s tastebud tingling Fortuna Chamber of Commerce event is back with the best chili in Humboldt, sponsored by Redwood Capital Bank. Sample the creations of more than two dozen teams. Vote for People’s Choice and help your favorite chili chef triumph! Bring your appetite to Main Street between Ninth and 12th streets. The contest and ticket sales start at 5 p.m. You can enjoy chili and chill to live music sponsored by Recology. Ticket options make it easy to sample enough chili to offer an educated opinion: two for $1, five for $2 and
30 for $10 (cash only, please). Wander along with other hungry chili fans as chefs entice your taste buds with spicy aromas. Those with more delicate buds, beware! There is a Hottest Chili category, so proceed with caution and maybe some milk. Rub your full belly at 6:30 p.m. as trophies and bragging rights are awarded. Cheer for Fortuna’s Best Chili chef as they bask in glory while Best Beef, Best Professional, Rookie of the Year and Fortuna’s Hottest Chili winners look on. The only downside? Having to wait 12 more months until the 2023 cook-off! Visit www.fortunachamber.com/2022chilicookoff for more information. From Friday, July 15 to Sunday, July 17, the friendly Ladies Fire Auxiliary will have plenty to fill your belly. Look for the Fortuna Boosters in their splashy loaner food truck to find mouthwatering pulled pork sandwiches. On Saturday Flavortown Mayor and owner of said truck Guy Fieri might stop by. You say you have a need for some serious tri-tip? Head for the Humboldt County CattleWomen who fill plates faster than you can hog tie a calf. Native Sons of the Golden West ride into town with brats and fixin’s for famished range riders. Fortuna Boosters burritos and oysters will entice those coastal cowboys who want to add a little surf to the turf. Afterwards, the tykes (yeah, the tykes) demand ice cream! Let the 4-H make your passel of young’uns smile. Herd your hungry cowhands to the Rodeo Grounds on Friday night (Bull Fighters Only and Quadiators), Saturday night
(Bulls, Broncs, Bands & Beer), and Saturday/ Sunday during the rodeo. A parched throat deserves a cold beer! The taps open at 6 p.m. on Friday night for Bull Fighters Only. Serving starts at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday so enjoy an Eel River Brewery California selection with your victuals. Will it be the California Blonde Ale? Sunday is DelReka Distributing Day. Salute their support of Fortuna Rodeo Week with a raised Coors! On Saturday, July 16, the Fortuna Kiwanis Club rolls up their sleeves to serve you breakfast! Grab the family and leave the hot griddle work to the volunteers. Fluffy pancakes awash in butter and maple syrup with a side of sausage and some orange juice prove irresistible to even the toughest cow hand. Challenge the kids to a cold milk moustache competition. Sip hot coffee and jaw a bit with the neighbor you haven’t seen in a blue moon. Those delicious pancakes support scholarships and activities for local children. The sausage you ate is philanthropy at its tastiest, helping to purchase school supplies and bicycles for kids who would otherwise go without. From Fourth of July games to Trunk or Treat, the Kiwanis strive to give Fortuna’s children fun and safe activities funded by your need to feed before hitting the trail. The breakfast feast begins at 7 a.m. at the Rohner Park Cook Shack. Grub is $8 per adult, $5 for children under 7, just the right price for you hungry homesteaders. The flipping of flap jacks wraps up at 11 a.m.
so you have time to mosey on down to Main Street for the parade. What better way to start your rodeo day? Come hungry on Sunday, July 17. For some, the legendary Fortuna Rodeo Deep Pit Barbecue is a spectator sport. To watch the process from pit to plate is the best way for any cookie to pick up the barbecue know-how. Salivation begins the day before when the Seasoning Crew brings the zing to the Fortuna Fire Hall to prepare 4,000 pounds of 100 percent grass-fed beef from Pacific Pastures. The fires are lit at Rohner Park at 4 p.m. A long night follows, with wood added hourly until 1 a.m. (you read that right). The beef itself doesn’t make an appearance until the coals are just right. The big reveal happens around 10 a.m. on Sunday when the coals are pushed aside. Can you smell it? The line is waiting, filled with hungry rodeo fans and riders. The Meat Server team offer up barbecue so divine that next year you might be inspired to try to be first in line. The Server Crew won’t divulge how they make beans this good — at least 80 to 100 pounds of them — but at least you still get to eat them. Grab a roll to sop up the sauces. A mere $20 for a mouthwatering meal so good it pulls riders right off the range. Excited? You can buy tickets online right now! Or head down to the Rohner Park Cook Shack between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Keep your fingers crossed if you’re running late. You’d be surprised at how fast they can go through 80 gallons of potato salad. ✪
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For the Kids
The Fortuna Volunteer Fire Dept. delights the kids on Wednesday, July 13. Photo by Carol Niles Photography
For the Kids By Meg Wall-Wild Carnival From Tuesday, July 12 to Sunday, July 17, the bright carnival days of Fortuna Rodeo Week are here! The rides power up at noon on Tuesday in Rohner Park. Let your children celebrate summer by screaming in delight as they whirl around. An all-day bracelet is $35, with rides and fun limited only by hours of operation. Excitement is at hand daily from noon to 11 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, closing at midnight Friday to Sunday. Sticky cotton candy hands
everywhere! The dizzy smile you share with your kids after a ride? Bonus! Later, come back for a romantic Ferris wheel ride or two before the carnival leaves town.
Street Games Don’t forget Rodeo Week is a week and every week has a hump day! On Wednesday, July 13, it’s time to relax with the family from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Street Games on Main Street. The Fortuna Volunteer Fire
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FORTUNA OPTOMETRY
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Department will delight every little first responder fan with their sheer presence and Street Games, of course. The Egg Toss is an absolute scream and the Stick Horse Race is beyond adorable. Your little family members can hoot and holler in the bounce house as you power up with a hamburger provided by the Fortuna Fire Department Muster Team. Your snacking supports their travel to muster events. The fun is not complete without the organized chaos of the Tony Johnston Penny Scramble. Cowpokes 3 years and under will need parental game guidance, but 4-5 year olds and 6-7 year olds (and up) compete on their own. Time to U.S. Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard. snap a sweet photo Photo by Phil Doyle Photography to send to grandma and grandpa. Best of all? Children’s events are free. along Fortuna Boulevard. The sound of hooves on pavement makes your heart Parade beat faster, too. The crowd cheers at the Main Street is the place to be on first sight of rodeo royalty as the queen Saturday, July 16! The 101st annual Fortuna regally floats past the adoring throng. Rodeo Week parade begins at 11 a.m. with Want to join in? Sign up to ride to this a flourish and a wave from Grand Marshal year’s theme of Western Fun Along the 101 Mel Berti. Watch your 6-year-old light up for a chance to wave back at the crowd. ✪ when a team of bespangled horses clops
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FORTUNA RODEO 2022
Cover Artist
‘Western Fun Along the 101’ Starts Early for Artist By Meg Wall-Wild
I
f you think cowboys get up early, you haven’t met artist, fitness trainer and nutrition coach Ryan Jensen, who created the artwork for this year’s Fortuna Rodeo poster. He rises at 4 a.m., motivates others to work toward better health, then feeds his artistic soul. Jensen, a California-born artist who began sketching as soon as he could hold a pencil, was destined to pick up a brush. His parents, both artists, met at an art store. His mother was a graphic artist and his father an oil painter, giving him a double dose of creative genes. Their art helped to develop Jensen’s eye and their work ethic his commitment to his craft. Jensen’s dedication to his art is tied to his well-being. The U.S. Marine Corps veteran served for eight years. The experience of combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan refocused his life and inspired a return to art school. Initially a sketch artist, he finally picked up a brush and hasn’t looked back. Since then, Jensen has become one of California’s rising plein air painters (artists who paint outdoors to take advantage of natural light). Racking up an impressive number of accolades up and down the state, he has garnered people’s choice, first place and best in show awards in Borrego Springs, Laguna Beach, Mendocino, and Oceanside. The fitness aspect of his life comes in handy while wrestling large canvases on windy seashores. Jensen states the formula of health and art provides him a kind of accountability — a feel-better-to-paintbetter alignment. He declares himself
Ryan Jensen
Courtesy of the artist
happy with his purpose-driven life, which motivates him to encourage others to pick up the weights and the brush. Although not at the same time! Jensen wants to help others with a new instructional video for beginning and seasoned painters. “Most art instruction videos are boring,” he says, adding it was better for him to learn through messing it up and learning from the mistake, so it sticks. His understanding of the struggle to learn helped him craft his video with relatable steps, and guiding principles. Jensen’s voice fills with excitement when he speaks of encouraging budding artists, emphasizing that with art, it’s about their hearts. Although an oil painter, Jensen used a graphic art approach in his crowd-pleasing “Western Fun Along the 101.” The signed original artwork will go home with the lucky person who bids the highest. Have that wallet ready during Saturday’s rodeo for the auction. Pony up some dough and support the Fortuna Rodeo by buying a cool piece of original framed and signed art! If you are outbid, hope that your size is still in stock because Jensen’s artwork makes for one rip roaring T-shirt. You can check out Ryan Jensen’s work at www.ryanjensenartwork.com. Whether his subject is cattle, cowboys, surfers or soldiers, his talent is evident. Follow him on Facebook or Instagram @ryanjensenart for updates, and keep an eye out for his new video. Maybe you’ll find yourself in a sunny field with some brushes and a few posing cows. ✪
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A
re you saddled up for Saturday night? Gates open at 6 p.m. July 16 for Bulls, Broncs, Bands & Brews! The bulls are extra ornery. The broncs are fired up. The band is in tune. The beer is chilled. What are you waiting for? The price is right at a wallet-pleasing $10 for adults and $5 for the 12-and-under crowd. Did you miss the Remedy Band last night? You get a second chance at 6 p.m. with a dance-inducing playlist of country rock from Aldean to ZZ Top. Michael Norton (guitar), Mark De La O (drums), Bo Conn (guitar), Albert Clark (keyboards) and Eric Nasland (bass guitar) will get you twostepping until you can two-step no more. Don’t forget to wear those comfy Justins. You’ll need them for both boot scootin’ and footloose boogieing. Did you sign up the little mutton buster (ages 6-9 with an adult) for some ring time? Or register that middle school steer rider (ages 10-13 with an adult) who has been practicing technique all year. Sign those riders up early because this year registration is online only. Mutton Bustin’ and Steer Riding is free! Take care of check-in at 6 p.m., and bring the required helmet and vest, and rigging for steer riders. Safety equipment is a must for all participants, as are waivers. With obligations taken care of,
sit back with one of the Humboldt brews on tap and watch the fun! Be careful not to spill that beer — a good belly laugh may mean a trip back to the tap! The bucking begins at 7 p.m. with Mutton Bustin’, followed by Steer Riding. Stubborn sheep meets determined youth. Who wins out? Mom holds her breath as annoyed beef tries to rid itself of the preteen stuck like a burr on its back. Footage from proud parents will be posted on Instagram before the stands are empty. Peek back at the cover to see the artwork up for auction this year. “Western Fun Along the 101” is up for grabs. Be the highest bidder when the original signed artwork is auctioned off between 7 and 8 p.m. It looks fantastic on this program; just imagine Ryan Jensen’s artwork hanging on your wall. The crowd is now primed for the main event at 8 p.m. Time for Bulls and Broncs. Seat-of-the-pants riding ramps up the anxious excitement of the spectators. Another rider thrown! A bull busts out of the gate, cowboy hat flying off as the crowd cheers. Can the rider stay on longer than their hat? Make a friendly wager with your neighbor. Loser buys the next round. You look back into the ring just in time to see the highest buck you’ve ever seen a horse buck. Bulls, Broncs, Bands & Beers is bound to live up to its reputation. ✪ FORTUNA RODEO 2022
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FORTUNA RODEO 2022
Rodeo Events
Western Fun Along the 101!
W
elcome to the 101st annual Fortuna Rodeo, the centerpiece of the Friendly City’s weeklong summer celebration! Fortuna is proud to offer the largest rodeo in the region, giving cowboys up and down the state a chance to show off the skills that built the American West. In addition to competing in the individual events, which are described in the following pages, each cowboy’s individual scores are totaled together to make them eligible for three all-around cowboy prizes — the rodeo’s top honors. They are:
Tom McWhorter Memorial All-Around Cowboy Award given to the cowboy who has won the most money overall across all events of the rodeo. Sponsor: Mobley Construction (MCI)
The Fred Barry Memorial Top Hand
Law Offices of Patrick J. Barry
Photo by Phil Doyle Photography
Award for the Humboldt County Top Hand. Given to the Humboldt County-based cowboy with the highest overall standings in all events of the rodeo. Sponsor: Law Offices of Patrick J. Barry
All-Around Cowgirl Awarded to the cowgirl who has won the most money. Sponsor: Jack Hurst Trucking
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Rodeo Events continued from previous page
Bull Riding
Tie Down Roping
Sponsor: Bear River Casino
Photo by Phil Doyle Photography
Photo by Phil Doyle Photography
Maybe the most popular event and probably the most dangerous, bull riding is a battle of wits and brute strength between a cowboy and the most dangerous of ranch animals. The cowboy attempts to ride for eight seconds, strapped to a bucking, whirling 1-ton bull, holding on with only one hand. This is a judged competition: Points are awarded for the cowboy’s form and for the difficulty of the ride. But if the rider is bucked off, or if he touches the bull with his free hand, he is disqualified.
Tie-down roping — also called calf roping — introduces another element into the mix. Not only must the cowboy rope the animal, as in breakaway roping, he must also bring it to a full stop and immobilize it. After the animal is lassoed, the cowboy dismounts and runs to the calf carrying a small rope in his teeth. He then throws the calf to the ground and binds three of its legs, after which he signals to the judges and time is called. The event isn’t over, though — if the calf kicks off the rope on its legs within six seconds, the contestant is disqualified. Sponsor: Providence Health
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Saddle Bronc Bronc riding comes from the essential cowboy skill of taming (or “breaking”) a horse for use. As in bull riding, a contestant must stay atop the wild animal for eight seconds using only one hand. But the bronc rider has additional considerations — he is also judged on how well he spurs the horse to action with his boots, and he must keep his feet in the stirrups at all times. Bronc riders come out of the chute with their legs over the horse’s shoulders in order to give the animal the initial advantage.
Photo by Phil Doyle Photography
Sponsor: Humboldt Fence Company
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Rodeo Events
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Steer Wrestling Steer wrestling (or “bulldogging”) tests the cowboy’s strength as well as his skill at handling both horse and cattle. In this timed event, the steer leaves the chute at a run, tailed by one horseman (“the hazer”) who keeps the animal running in a straight line. After a head start, the barrier holding back the mounted contestant is tripped, and the steer wrestler races after his quarry. When he catches up, he dismounts his horse at a run and transfers his weight to the steer, which he then wrestles to the ground. Quickest time wins, but as with all timed events the contestant gets a 10-second penalty if he leaves the chute too early.
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Photo by Carol Niles Photography
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Ribbon Roping In this two-person, timed rodeo event, the roper, who starts out in the box, and the runner, who starts from another location in the arena determined by the field judge, attempt to rope a steer and take a ribbon from its tail. Once the steer comes through the barrier, the roper can use any catch to rope it, then loop the rope around their saddle horn. The runner then snatches the ribbon from the steer’s tail and sprints to make the doctors names like as oldthe ad, not so the box with the barrier big and not all capitalized, main focus should finish line. be north coast vet logo and good luck to all participants
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Rodeo Events
continued from previous page
Team Roping
Photo by Carol Niles Photography
The only team event in the rodeo, team roping features two different styles of lasso work. A steer leaves the chute running. After a short head start, two cowboys follow on horseback. The first must rope the animal’s head or horns to stop its forward progress, moving it into a turn. Then the second — the “heeler” — attempts to lasso the animal’s rear legs. A five-second penalty is assessed if he manages to rope only one leg. The clock is stopped when the steer is fully roped and the contestants’ two horses face one another. Sponsors: The Playroom and DCI Builders
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Breakaway Roping This fast-paced event is the purest test of a cowgirl’s lasso skills. As in steer wrestling, a calf leaves the chute at a run and after a head start trips the barrier holding back the cowgirl. The contestant then gives chase and attempts to lasso the calf’s head. She has the rope tied to her saddle horn with a string and halts her horse. Time is called when the calf, which is still running, breaks the string. Sponsor: Eel River Brewing Co.
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Rodeo Events
WELCOME RODEO FANS!
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Barrel Racing The premier women’s event in the rodeo, barrel racing is the ultimate test of speed and agility. Riders attempt to run a cloverleaf pattern around the three barrels in the fastest time possible. The quickness of the clockwise and counterclockwise pivots around the barrels are crucial, as is the final sprint back to the starting line. Riders are penalized five seconds if they tip over a barrel.
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2021 Fun Run Results 5K TOP 50 RESULTS
One hundred and thirty-eight racers participated in the 2021 race. For all results and more photos, visit www.6rrc.com.
Fortuna Rodeo Fun Run 2022
Christopher Christianson was first to cross the finish line at 20:30.
By Meg Wall-Wild
L
ace up those lucky running shoes! It’s time to toe the line at the 2022 Fortuna Rodeo Run 5K. The Six Rivers Running Club invites you to run around town with them on Sunday, July 10. How can you resist? You’ll find all you need in the parking lot of the Redwood Café at 12th and Main streets, including the start/finish line and a whole lot of friendly runners. Arrive 30-40 minutes early to check in for the 9 a.m. start time. The entry fee is $10 and free for members. You can join Six Rivers Running Club online (www.6rrc.com) or
on race day. An individual membership is $20 or you can sign up the whole family for $30. The USATF-sanctioned race encourages some serious competition. See how close you can get to last year’s top times set by Christopher Christianson (20:30) and Audrey Maynor (22:30). Grab some friends and run as a team under full steam! The family friendly course follows Main Street and Fortuna Boulevard. Both types of strollers are welcome, too. Fun, run, sun and maybe a quick stop for a sticky bun? ✪
Audrey Raynor was the fastest woman in last year’s race with a time of 22:30.
Place/Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G/Age 1 Christopher Christianson . . . M44 2 Aaron Stacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M43 3 Noah Crosswhite . . . . . . . . . . .M13 4 Doug Hartling . . . . . . . . . . . . . M37 5 Byran McWaters . . . . . . . . . . . M53 6 Audrey Maynor . . . . . . . . . . . .F49 7 Kayla Miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F28 8 Ed Coppini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M54 9 Jose Ornelas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M32 10 James Crosswhite . . . . . . . . . M42 11 Cyril Carl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M74 12 Jasper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M24 13 Jennifer Garcia . . . . . . . . . . . . . F41 14 Mark DeLao . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M27 15 Jorge Matias . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M54 16 Paul Kraus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M60 17 Angel Diaz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .M17 18 Carlos Diaz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M42 19 Taylor Wilson . . . . . . . . . . . . . F31 20 Randy Emenaker . . . . . . . . . M70 21 Misael Sanchez . . . . . . . . . . . M26 22 Pepe Matias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . M56 23 Matt Leverett . . . . . . . . . . . . M45 24 Dawn Durbin . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F56 25 Debbie Stamper. . . . . . . . . . .F67 26 Brida Lester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F13 27 Alexa McCall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F12 28 Diana Wise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F28 29 Perlita Kilinski . . . . . . . . . . . . . F47 30 Mr. Sunshine . . . . . . . . . . . . . M68 31 Jim Childs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M60 32 Aiden McCall . . . . . . . . . . . . M10 33 Sarah Larson . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F38 34 Michaele Whiteley . . . . . . . . F61 35 Sarah Sullens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F41 36 Pedro Matias . . . . . . . . . . . . . M46 37 Robb Foley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M48 38 Sean Allman . . . . . . . . . . . . . M20 39 Patrick-Ross McNally . . . . . M09 40 Sherry Myers . . . . . . . . . . . . .F65 41 Heather Fonglakhone . . . . . . F47 42 Dennis Stevens . . . . . . . . . . . M48 43 Kit Meyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F40 44 Lisa McWaters . . . . . . . . . . . .F55 45 Sage Hartling . . . . . . . . . . . . .F08 46 Juan Ornelas-Vera . . . . . . . . .M11 47 Thomas Blair . . . . . . . . . . . . . M53 48 Mason Blair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .M13 49 Shawneene Stiener . . . . . . . .F38 50 Bo Stacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M09
Time 20:30 21:03 21:08 21:43 21:44 22:30 22:59 23:14 23:21 23:52 24:38 24:38 24:52 25:13 25:18 25:30 25:50 25:54 26:36 27:21 27:22 27:30 27:31 27:36 27:37 27:44 27:49 28:36 28:37 28:40 29:04 29:19 29:37 29:41 29:42 30:06 30:19 30:49 31:15 31:17 31:54 32:04 32:05 32:07 32:12 32:16 32:19 32:36 32:41 33:05
Welcomes You To the Rodeo FORTUNA RODEO 2022
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Au ust 27th 2022
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FORTUNA RODEO 2022
Over 40 Breweries Live Music Vendors and Food
One Hundred Years of Fortuna Rodeo Firsts By Susan J.P. O’Hara and Alex Service
D
uring the long history of the Fortuna Rodeo, many “firsts” have marked new ideas and new ways of building community involvement. Some of these firsts became treasured annual events; others lasted only a few years. Some became Fortuna Rodeo lore, preserving the memory of past rodeo heroes and setting standards for present competitors to achieve or surpass. Chief among all “Fortuna Rodeo firsts” is the first Fortuna Rodeo itself, held at the newly-created Rohner Park on August 27 and 28, 1921. It was sponsored by the Humboldt County Stockmen’s Association as entertainment for their annual picnic. Cowboys put on riding exhibitions to thrill the audience as well as some actual contests with local cowboys riding alongside Ty Stokes and Jesse Stahl, two well-known African American riders who were among the best rodeoers of the 1920s. Jesse Stahl was posthumously recognized for his abilities in 1979 when he was inducted into the Cowboy Hall of Fame, and he was the first of the many future Hall of Famers who rode at the Fortuna Rodeo. By 1925, the local businessmen became involved in the rodeo, ensuring its position as one of Fortuna’s summer festivities. In 1927, the businessmen created the first Fortuna Rodeo parade, described at the time as a “historical pageant.” The parade featured an ox cart, a covered wagon and a stagecoach, with parade participants dressed as figures from California’s past such as padres and aristocrats from Spanish California, gold miners and pioneers. Members of the Hupa Tribe performed their White Deerskin Dance in what is believed to be the first time since 1879 that the dance was performed in public. Another first from 1927 was the first Fortuna Rodeo queen contest, won by Maxine Gould. The first rodeo sponsored solely by the Fortuna Businessmen’s Association was held in 1930. The stockmen felt they could no longer support the rodeo financially,
due to the stock market crash of 1929. The Fortuna Rodeo made it through the first years of the Great Depression, but ultimately was cancelled due to the economic hard times in 1934 and 1935. However, the rodeo returned with renewed vigor in 1936. At this time the “penny scramble” became a feature of Rodeo Week. This event is now for children only, but when it began, it was open to everyone (thanks to the Depression, most people could use a bit of extra pocket money). Also in the late 1930s, the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department became involved with the rodeo, sponsoring the traditional Saturday night dance. The rodeo returned to its preeminence on the Professional Rodeo circuit, with riders such as Hall of Famer and National Champion Johnnie Schneider riding and roping at the event. The year 1941 marked a Fortuna Rodeo high point when renowned rodeo photographer DeVere Helfrich attended and captured the action, his photographs chronicling national competitors as well as regional riders such as local favorite Clarence Bugenig. In 1942, the Fortuna Businessmen decided to cancel the rodeo in order to focus on the war effort. However, that year a one-day amateur rodeo was sponsored by the Fortuna unit of the Women’s Ambulance and Defense Corps. The women used the money raised at this rodeo for purchasing an ambulance for local use during World War II. In 1943, the Armed Forces requested that the rodeo not be held, since if an emergency caused the highway to be closed, rodeo attendees would be stranded. Also, many of the local businessmen, as well as the cowboys themselves, were serving in the Armed Forces. With the end of the war, the rodeo resumed in 1946. Many favorite events returned, such as the penny scramble (which had now become a kids-only event), a carnival, dances and a large parade. A major first for the Fortuna Rodeo came in 1951, when the Fortuna Rodeo Association was formed, with a board
Photo courtesy of the Depot Museum
made up of equal numbers from the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department and the Fortuna Chamber of Commerce. The by-laws developed by the Association, which are still followed today, state that once expenses are paid, all funds raised by the rodeo will be used to maintain and improve facilities at Rohner Park. The 1953 rodeo was the official celebration of the City of Fortuna’s “Diamond Jubilee” 75th anniversary. This year may also have been the first to feature a grand marshal for the Fortuna Rodeo parade. In 1953 the parade’s marshal was Captain Leroy Gates, who served as an air force pilot in both WWII and the Korean War and was one of the founders of the Rohnerville Airport. A rodeo tradition begun in 1953 was a pancake breakfast during Rodeo Weekend. This event was first sponsored by the women’s service organization the Quota Club, then by the Business and Professional Women’s Association from 1959 onward, and then from 1997 by the Fortuna chapter of the Kiwanis Club. In 1954, Clarence Bugenig won the local champion saddle. The year 1954 also saw the final professional rodeo held in Fortuna. In 1955, the Rodeo Association decided the Fortuna Rodeo would become an amateurs-only event. They hired Dick Hemsted to provide the stock animals, which Hemsted Rodeos continued to do into the 1990s. The 1950s also saw the return of the deep-pit rodeo barbecue and the queen contest. The first Fortuna Rodeos back in the 1920s had featured
free barbecues, with stockmen donating the animals, but now the Rodeo Association charged a small admission fee for the ever-popular meal created by a team of volunteers led by “Super-Chef” Nat Evans, inventor of a secret blend of meatseasoning spices. To this day, the beloved tradition of the Fortuna Rodeo barbecue continues, made possible by dedicated volunteers and featuring a closely-guarded secret recipe. In 1964, Al Cooper won the first of his four local champion saddles and in 1965, Charlie Rodriquez won the first of his five local championships. These two men would remain the competitors with the highest number of local champion wins at the Fortuna Rodeo until Casey Minton achieved an astounding nine local champion saddles in the early 2000s. Popular Rodeo Week events in downtown Fortuna in the 1960s included street dances, a greased pole climbing contest, greased pig contest and an orange crate race, first sponsored by the Fortuna Junior Chamber of Commerce (the Jaycees) in 1966. In the late 1960s, the tradition began of the Volunteer Fire Department hosting a Firemen’s Games event on Main Street during Rodeo Week. For three years in the 1970s, Rodeo Week festivities included a children’s parade. Youngsters from the Strehl and Ryles families were among the frequent winners of children’s parade awards for entries like their “Five Little Ducks” in the 1974 “Disneyland of the continued on next page » FORTUNA RODEO 2022
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History continued from page 37
Photo courtesy of the Depot Museum
West” kiddies’ parade. In 1975, a horseshoe-pitching competition became part of the Rodeo Week lineup, and around this same time, bicycle races were added to the week’s activities. Also for the first time in 1975, a volunteer Fortuna Rodeo Band was created to take part in the rodeo parade, composed of students from the local schools along with other community members. In 1976, the year of the United States’ Bicentennial celebrations, the Jaycees sponsored their first Fortuna Rodeo Tennis Tournament, which would be part of the annual events until the early 1990s. The Rodeo Association declared that 1979’s event would be the 50th anniversary rodeo, although later re-calculation led to the conclusion that this milestone was actually a few years off. (Matters were complicated by the several years without a Fortuna Rodeo during the Great Depression and World War II, and by disagreement about which events had been official Fortuna Rodeos.) As part of the official celebrations of the rodeo’s first 50 years, a Friday night fireworks display became part of Rodeo Week, remaining a highlight of the festivities until 1986. In 1980, for the first time, Outhouse Races were added to the Rodeo Week fun. This rip-roaring event continued until 1985
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and later was re-introduced for several more years in the early 2000s. Early in the 1980s, the merchants of the new Redwood Village Mall began sponsoring Rodeo Week entertainments, and during this decade, Redwood Village would become the location for the kids’ activities on the Tuesday of Rodeo Week. A major milestone took place in 1984: for the first time, the winner of the local all-around champion saddle was a woman. Suzi Fusi captured the honor only one year after riding in her first rodeo (at the Fortuna Rodeo in 1983). Fusi also won the Pro Rodeo California Cowboys Association’s 1984 award for Rookie of the Year. In the first 100 years of the Fortuna Rodeo, two other competitors have joined Suzi Fusi in the ranks of women who have been Fortuna’s local all-around champions: Sherry Luman in 1988 and Jennifer Renner in 2019. Foot races through town had joined the Rodeo Week lineup in or around 1980, and by 1984, the annual Fortuna Rodeo Fun Run was sponsored by the Six Rivers Running Club. Two beloved Fortuna Rodeo traditions came into being in 1986: the “kidnapped tourists” trial and the chili cook-off. The first tourists to be “kidnapped” and treated to a free weekend of rodeo-themed hospitality were Al and
Raylene Key, a honeymooning couple from Vermont. Tourists continued to be “kidnapped” as part of the Rodeo Week shindigs until the final abduction of a vacationing family during the rodeo celebrations in 2016. The first chili cook-off took place in the parking lot of Del’s Liquors and Deli on Fortuna Boulevard; in later years the event would move to its current downtown location on Main Street. A major difference between the early chili cook-offs and the event we know today was a lack of beans: the “Fortuna Rodeo Chili Society” declared that “true chili” consists of “any kind of meat, or combinations of meats, cooked with chili peppers, various other spices and other ingredients, with the exception of items such as beans or spaghetti which are strictly forbidden.” Also in 1986, the Rodeo Association unveiled the first annual Country Music Showdown at the rodeo grounds. For several years, the showdown would be a highlight of Friday night’s events. An “ugly dog contest” was introduced in Rodeo Week 1988, and took place for several years. Cyrus Comer’s Dalmatian/ English bulldog mix Jeremiah was the first pooch to be proclaimed Fortuna’s ugliest dog; in subsequent years Charlie Washburn’s scruffy little canine Rambo would be Jeremiah’s biggest rival for the title. The biggest Fortuna Rodeo first of the 1990s was the creation in 1994 of a junior rodeo, the Fortuna Junior Round-Up. The event would grow to become one of the biggest and most popular junior rodeos in the northwest. In the late 1990s, Fortuna’s own West Coast Rodeo Co. inherited the mantle of the Hemsted Rodeo Company, becoming the stock contractor for the Fortuna Rodeo. In the year 2000, the Rodeo Association decided to change the way past rodeos were counted. Things had gotten confusing over the years, with disagreements about the number of years in which no Fortuna Rodeo took place. From 2000 onward, the rodeos have been reckoned by the number of years since 1921’s first Fortuna Rodeo. This change created what might seem to be a case of time travel: 1999’s Fortuna Rodeo was advertised as the 70th annual rodeo, and 2000’s was the 79th. In 2002, the Association introduced “Family Night” at the rodeo grounds as a highlight of Rodeo Week’s Friday, with kid-focused activities such as piñatas and an “animal scramble.” Over the next few
years, Friday’s activities morphed into the wild competition known as the Quadiators, and Friday became Motorsports Night at the Fortuna Rodeo. The year 2006 brought another Fortuna first: the tradition of commissioning an original artwork each year to illustrate the rodeo’s posters and program. Don Brown, who was then the Rodeo Association member in charge of advertising, brought the idea to Fortuna. The first Fortuna Rodeo painting, by Arcata artist Forest Stearns, shows Ben McWhorter bullriding, with Roy Curless and Tom McWhorter among the spectators. In 2013, a new event joined Saturday night’s lineup: Bands, Bulls and Brews (another b-word, Broncs, would later be added to the title). That first Bands, Bulls and Brews also featured a game of “cowboy poker,” pitting card-players in the arena against a bull: the last player to leave the table, after the bull had chased all the other players away, was the winner. Among the most recent Fortuna Rodeo firsts, in 2017, the elite bullfighting cadre Bullfighters Only, based in San Antonio, Texas, became the central attraction during Friday night’s festivities. Some Fortuna Rodeo firsts are far less welcome than others. In 2020, due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, what would have been the 99th anniversary Fortuna Rodeo instead became the first Fortuna Rodeo to be cancelled since the end of World War II. Since almost the very beginnings of the Fortuna Rodeo, it has been traditional for rodeo organizers to declare that the next year’s rodeo will be “bigger and better” than the one before. In 2021, for the 100th anniversary rodeo, a bigger and better rodeo again takes its rightful place as one of the greatest annual celebrations of life in the Friendly City of Fortuna. ✪ Historians Susan J.P. O’Hara and Alex Service are the authors of In and Around the Arena: The 100 Year History of the Fortuna Rodeo. The book, featuring over 800 photographs from the collections of local community members and museums, will be published later in 2021. Be sure to stop by the authors’ table at the rodeo this year, for more information on the book and to add your name to the pre-order list for In and Around the Arena.
Saddle & Silver
T
here are plenty of reasons to mount up for rodeo competition, practice for countless hours and risk injury in the dusty arena. But long after the cheering has subsided and the purse is spent, the trophies taken home by champion cowboys shine on. Here are the the storied prizes riders are shooting for at the Fortuna Rodeo.
Gary Edgmon Memorial Saddle The Gary Edgmon Memorial Saddle is awarded to the top local all-around cowboy. Competitors must reside in Humboldt, Del Norte, Trinity or Mendocino counties to qualify for this award. Edgmon was the owner of Ferndale Meat Co. and a member of the Fortuna Rodeo Board for many years. He was in charge of the rodeo’s deep pit barbecue while on the board and he served up a great meal. Edgmon passed away in 1998 and a memorial saddle has been given in his name ever since. He was a lifetime Fortuna resident known for his lighthearted humor and giving personality. American AgCredit and Sequoia Gas Co. are proud to sponsor this award.
Fred Barry Memorial Buckle The Fred Barry Memorial Buckle, named after one of the larger figures in Fortuna Rodeo lore, is awarded yearly to the Humboldt County top hand. Born and raised in Humboldt County, Barry was a cowboy and rancher. He won the all-around cowboy award at the 1941 Fortuna Rodeo and would later go on to have a successful rodeo career on the national circuit, competing in many of the big rodeos, including the Cheyenne Frontier Days, Pendelton Roundup and the Calgary Stampede. After retiring from rodeo, Fred ran a successful cattle ranching operation in Loleta and continued to be a
2021 Winners are Featured on page 11. big supporter of the Fortuna Rodeo. The Fred Barry Memorial Buckle carries on his spirit, sponsored by his son Patrick Barry.
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Tom McWhorter Memorial All-Around Buckle This buckle is presented to the Fortuna Rodeo’s all-around cowboy. Mobley Construction proudly sponsors this award. Rodeo has always been a McWhorter family tradition. For 54 years, Tom McWhorter served on the Fortuna Rodeo Board, enjoying the sport and camaraderie that are part of the cowboy way of life. From 2005 until 2012, Tom’s family granted the Tom McWhorter Rodeo Scholarship to local high school rodeo participants in the California High School Rodeo Association. Tom grew up on a ranch in Yager Creek and always enjoyed going to the high school rodeos, watching the young people develop their skills and grow into world-class athletes. “District Two has had a number of state and college champions who started in the local high school rodeo circuit,” said McWhorter’s son Ted, who continues the family’s rodeo tradition working for West Coast Rodeo Co. “We have an excellent reputation for outstanding competitors from our district.” ✪
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