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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Welcome to the 94th Annual Ski Hi Stampede BY SYLVIA LOBATO
MONTE VISTA—The idea of a rodeo in Monte Vista has roots as deep as the history of the American West. Welcome to the 94th annual Ski Hi Stampede, Colorado’s oldest pro rodeo, running every year since 1919, except for two years during World War II. Long before the turn of the last century, cattlemen recognized that the San Luis Valley’s fertile soil would produce food for their stock and ample area on which to graze. Summers found them in “cow camps” around the headwaters of the Rio Grande, where horses and cattle could roam wild and free. Naturally, taming the wild horses was of utmost importance and the cowpokes, mostly young men, learned to rope and ride them. It was rough and tumble, but they did it, developing useful skills at the same time. Herding and controlling the cattle was important and teams of cowboys corralled and branded the animals in order to identify their herd as they grazed on the high mountain meadows. When the herds were brought back down to ranches on the Valley floor, the cowboys were ready for action. Bragging rights were sought and it soon became obvious that the spirited young cattlemen needed an outlet for their energy. Fairs and stock shows were organized in the place now called Monte Vista and herds of cattle were shown and compared for excellence. A prime bull was of great value as breeding became an art. Shortly after the 1900s dawned, A.E. Headlee and his son-in-law Corbyn Wright went to Cheyenne, Wyo. to view the rodeo there and returned, suggesting that a similar event might be good for Monte Vista. The businessmen of the community agreed and L.G. Sylvester joined in, helping form the first Stampede committee. In 1919, stock was gathered from the high mountain meadows and the Ski Hi Stampede was born. Today, it is Colorado’s oldest professional rodeo. Young cowpokes had an opportunity to compare their summer-honed skills, and they did, with great enthusiasm. The purses were small by today’s standards, but the spirits were high. Steers, the neutered bulls, grew large and
Kids Connection pancake breakfast Saturday morning MONTE VISTA — Come One! Come All! Enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, and beverages at the Kids Connection Stampede Pancake Breakfast to be held on Saturday, July 25 from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. in front of Sunflower Bank on Adams Street.
Annual Hamburger Fry sizzling at bank MONTE VISTA — The Monte Vista Band Program will once again be hosting the Annual Hamburger Fry on Friday and Saturday, July 24 and 25 immediately following the parade in the Sunflower Bank parking garage on Adams Street Proceeds support Monte Vista’s awardwinning band program.
Find Business in your backyard.
www.shoppelocal.biz
Photo by John McEvoy
spirited and they didn’t like the idea of being wrestled to the ground, much less ridden. It was man against beast. The first year drew thousands of people, according to newspapers of the day. It seemed that everyone in Monte Vista and surrounding ranches was involved and the trains chugged in, carrying hundreds of people who wanted to see cowpokes ply their trade. Parades and dances were held, while crowds
gathered to hear eloquent speakers and talented musicians. Women became involved as rodeo queens, barrel racers and trick riders, while children honed their riding skills as “mutton busters.” Rowdy young cowpokes have been supplanted by highly skilled professionals who come in to add points toward eventual competition in the January national rodeo in Las Vegas, Nev. Rodeos are held each day for four days, dances
are held and star country western performers are booked. The carnival has grown from a small midway on the grounds of what is now Bill Metz Elementary to a large show next to Ski Hi Park and the crowds are still huge. Professional stock producers provide the cattle and horses for the rodeo and wild animals no longer roam where the Rio Grande is born, but the spirit remains. Nothing says rural living like a rodeo.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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2015 Stampede Schedule* Cowboy up... Wednesday, July 22 Wright’s Amusement Carnival opens Canned food drive Bring two cans of food items to the carnival and buy an all-day carnival pass for $20 at the ticket booths.
Thursday, July 23 Wright’s Amusement Carnival continues 5:30 p.m.—Rotary Chuckwagon Dinner 7:30 p.m.—Stampede Concert Purchase your tickets online or at one of our local ticket outlets. Advance - $35, At the Door - $40, Advance Reserved - $40, Premium Advanced Reserved - $45. You may call 719-852-2055 at any time to purchase your tickets with a credit card! Fireworks! 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.— Dance featuring Sim Balkey $10 at the door/free with purchase of concert ticket
Friday, July 24
Family Day! Wright’s Amusement Carnival continues 10 a.m.— Parade Downtown Monte Vista 2 p.m. Local Rodeo Amateur events and professional slack 7 p.m.—PRCA Rodeo Purchase tickets online or at the Stampede ticket office on First Ave in Monte Vista. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.— Dance featuring Sim Balkey following the rodeo - $10 at the door
Saturday, July 25
Wright’s Amusement Carnival continues 10 a.m.— Parade Downtown Monte Vista 2 p.m.—PRCA Rodeo - “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” Day! Purchase tickets online or at the Stampede ticket office on First Ave in Monte Vista. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.— Dance featuring Sim Balkey $10 at the door; Youth Nite - First 100 youth (under 21 years old) with paid admission will receive a FREE commemorative Stampede T-shirt!
Sunday, July 26 Wright’s Amusement Carnival closes 10 a.m.—Christian Cowboy Service Ski Hi Park 2 p.m.— PRCA Rodeo Purchase tickets online or at the Stampede ticket office on First Ave in Monte Vista. Saddle Awards Following the rodeo For more information, contact the Stampede ticket office at 852-2055 or visit www. skihistampede.com. *Schedule is subject to change
Photo by John McEvoy
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Rodeo is a test of various cowboy skills MONTE VISTA —“The hardest part of riding is the ground.” ~Author Unknown Rodeo is a competitive sport that is performed in many countries around the world. Most people think that it originated in the Western US, but actually, it arose out of the working practices of cattle herding in Spain, Mexico, and later the United States, Canada, South America and Australia. Rodeo events continue to be held in many of these countries. It is a presentation of cowboy skills on a competitive level. The early “rodeo” was extremely informal. Beginning in the 1820s, cowboys and vaqueros of the Western United States and Mexico would compete against one another to test their working skills. After the Civil War, rodeo began to mature and the individual events began to take shape and became more of what we know rodeo
to be now. The first rodeo was held in Cheyenne, Wyo. in 1872. However, the Prescott, Ariz. rodeo receives its claim to fame as the “World’s Oldest Rodeo” because, in 1888, they were the first to charge admission and award prizes, making it the first professional rodeo. Rodeo grew rapidly across the U.S. and Canada. By 1910, there were numerous established rodeos that are still held today: Calgary Stampede, Pendleton Round-Up and Cheyenne Frontier Days. Arizona is lucky enough to hold both “The World’s Oldest Rodeo” in Prescott and “The World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo” in Payson. Until 1929, there was no regulation on the events for a rodeo competition. As the number of rodeos grew, organizations began forming
to standardize the rules of competition. These rodeo events include: organizations are largely sanctioning bodies Breakaway Roping that govern the sport at a youth, college and Goat Tying professional level. Pole Bending Steer Roping Pro rodeos are composed of rough stock and timed events. Cowboys who participate in the Rough Timed events in a standard pro rodeo Stock events are referred to by competitors as “Roughies,” similarly, cowboys that include: participate in timed events are called “Timies.” Tie Down Roping Team Roping Roughies and Timies do not usually compete Steer Wrestling in the other category. A Timie will normally Barrel Racing hang with other Timies and vice versa. Breakaway roping and goat tying for the ladies is a broken up version of the tie down Rough stock events include: roping for men. Bareback Riding Saddle Bronc Riding The calves used in the tie down roping can Bull Riding be a great challenge for a woman to flank; so they break up the event into two separate Other events recognized by competitors as ones for the girls.
Thank you Kick off your boots... to parade donors MONTE VISTA— The Ski Hi Stampede Parade Committee would like to thank the following individuals and businesses for their support. Without their continued held, the parade would not be possible. A Tech Inc. Absolute Shine Aspen Produce Victor & Laura Ast Glen Burnham C & L Container Charizma Hair Salon Colorado Potato Admin. Committee Ron & Carolyn David Edward D. Jones Dwight & Kandy Freeman Walter Fullwood, CPA Gunbarrel Station Dr. David Hinkley I & F Supply/Valley Forklift The Legacy Monte Vista K-Nip Inc. Nancy Mason, Legend Premier Properties Mathias Concrete McNitt Produce Metz Potato Company Monte Vista Co-op Monte Vista Eye Care Center Monte Vista Machine Tool Monte Vista Potato Growers Monte Vista Rotary Club Monte Vista Safeway Myers Brothers Truck & Tractor, Inc. Nazarene Thrift Store Nino’s Notes & Numbers Pepper Equipment The Petal’er Poole Chemical Co. Rio Grande Savings and Loan Rio Grande Seed & Grain Dr. Brian Roberts, DDS Rogers Family Mortuary Richard & Julie Ruybal San Luis Valley Federal Bank San Luis Valley Law Firm Ray & Colette Skeff Sonic Drive -In Sparkle Cleaners State Farm Insurance Sunflower Bank J. Byron & Amy Uhrich V & V Hardware Valley Lumber Valley Monument Wall, Smith, Bateman & Assoc., Inc. *Additional sponsors may have contributed after press time.
File photo
Float from the 2014 parade
Valley Publishing
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Page 5
Ski Hi Stampede Committee
Front row:Â Jason Tillman, Bob Carlucci, Robbie Clark, Karla Willschau, Karen Deacon, Keith Rogers, Greg Metz, Matthew Deacon. Back row:Â Charlie Burd, Dan Burns, Eric Kimberling, Mark Deacon, Nick Malone, Karla Willschau, Stampede Committee President Cliff Edwards. Not pictured: David Cooper and Derik Cooper
Courtesy photos
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Ski-hi salutes our STONE’S FARM SUPPLY
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Wright’s Amusments
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Stone’s Farm Supply
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Pepper Equipment Metz Family $7(& Ensignal
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
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Page 7
Page 8
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Parade theme ‘Proud To Be An American’
MONTE VISTA—This year marks the 94th anniversary of the San Luis Valley Ski-Hi Stampede. The parades are a much-anticipated part of the celebration that draws thousands of people into Monte Vista. The theme of this year’s parades is “Proud To Be An American.” The parade committee wants to honor veterans from all over the Valley. They are inviting veterans from all branches of the military, active duty or past service, including wounded warriors to be their special guests and take part in one or both days’ parades. The parades will take place in Monte Vista beginning at 10 a.m. on both Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. If you or someone you know is a veteran and would like to be a part of our celebration, please contact Kandy Freeman at 852-5424. All members of the community are welcome and encouraged to participate in the parades as File photos they honor veterans this year. Entry forms will be Horses and riders, floats and the clean up crew were just some of the highlights from available at the Colorado Potato Administration last year’s parades that had people lining the streets. Office near Safeway in Monte Vista. Make plans now to be a part of this special event.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Stampede on Adams
Page 9
th
5 Annual
Sidewalk Sale/Street Fair DOWNTOWN MONTE VISTA ✪ FRIDAY, JULY 24
Stampede on Adams is a joint project of: The Monte Vista Chamber and The Downtown Merchants
The Event is Free, Open to the Public and Handicapped Accessible
Shopping Sidewalk Sale t e n e s c r m o n a i d a F g Ven t r e t n E n i t n i a P Food Kids Games
VISIT LOCAL SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS FOR GREAT DEALS, SALES AND GREAT SELECTION OF CUISINE! BUSINESSES OPEN AND READY TO
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Shrimp served on Buffet - Sundays Only!
Daily Dinner Specials
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Ski-Hi Stampede announces amateur events MONTE VISTA— The Ski-Hi Stampede exceptions. Committee announces the 2015 amateur events • Entry fees will be $100 per person per event. and rules. Calf Roping - $100 All amateur contestants will participate in the Barrel Racing - $100 slack/qualifying round of the Ski-Hi Stampede Team Roping - $200 rodeo on Friday July 24 at a time, which will be An individual may enter only once per event. announced on Monday, July 2. All participants • Event will be a one go round timed trials. MUST be residents of the San Luis Valley—no • The 8 (eight) fastest times, who were
Photo by Eric R. Flores
Trudy Rheingans finished the SLV Amateur Barrel Races in 23.49 seconds.
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 25 – Qualifiers 8,7,6,5; Sunday, July 26 - Qualifiers 4,3,2,1 • Once individuals and teams have qualified, and performance times have been 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 for 8 a.m. to 12 noon, Monday, July 20. 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. Wild cow bounty Entries are open to all local residents. Entry fee is free. All members of each team must sign a release form and show proof of medical insurance. Prize money will be donated to a charity of the winner’s choice. See website for more information and all the rules, www. skihistampeded.com.
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Veterans to lead Stampede parade as marshals BY PHIL RAY JACK MONTE VISTA — The theme for this year’s Ski High Stampede is “Proud To Be an American,” and the annual parades will be led by those who are serving or have served in the military. According to Kandy Freeman, chairman of the Ski Hi Stampede Parade Organizing Committee, “We want to honor those who have stood up for our country and protected the freedoms we enjoy.” More than 100 veterans have been invited to take part, and the Organizing Committee is expecting to have a large group leading the parade. Participants in the parade are encouraged to “show their Red, White and Blue,” and spectators are invited to join in honoring and saluting our veterans. The Stampede will run from Thursday, July 23 through Sunday, July 26, with parades on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. The parades will be begin at 10 a.m. each day and start on Highway 160 in downtown Monte Vista. “Being proud to be an American includes taking pride in our community,” Freeman said. The parade organizers want to remind people that they can show their pride by helping keep the streets clean. Picking up candy wrappers, water bottles, and any other trash will be appreciated. “Also,” Freeman added, “We want everyone to be safe, so please keep an eye on your children during the parade. Don’t let them run out in the street to get candy when there are horses
File photo
Susanne and Richard Benton were the marshalls for the Friday parade in 2014 of parade vehicles approaching.” The parade organizing committee also want to remind those enjoying the parade that the barriers and ropes are placed along the route for safety reasons as well as crowd control. “Please do not take them down or move them,
and please wait until the parade is completely over before trying to get onto the main road,” Freeman said. “If you think you may need to leave more quickly, you might consider parking further down from the parade route so you can walk to
your vehicle and safely enter one of the roads that lead out of town,” she suggested. “With freedom comes responsibility, and we can show our pride in our community by helping to take care of it and watching out for each other,” Freeman said.
Don’t forget to ‘Stampede to the food bank’ MONTE VISTA—The annual Stampede to the Food Bank Food Drive will see big changes this year. From Saturday, July 25 through Friday, Aug. 7, the Monte Vista Emergency Food Bank will be collecting food at drop off boxes located in the churches, banks and grocery stores of Monte Vista. Monetary donations may be mailed to the food bank at P.O. Box 844, Monte Vista, CO 81144, and donations will be graciously accepted at the food bank, 245 Washington St. on Tuesdays and Fridays from 2 to 4 p.m. Please donate unexpired, unopened food items only. The Monte Vista Emergency Food Bank appreciates every donation received. Although, not all donations received are usable goods and must be disposed of. Having to check every item that comes in and disposing of unusable items creates more work for our busy volunteers. Please consider the following when donating to the food bank. Make sure all food items are unopened and sealed, as open items will be discarded. Check expiration dates. If food is expired, it will be discarded as well.
Following is a list of items purchased by The Monte Vista Emergency Food Bank schools, clubs, organizations, churches, the food bank and given out on a regular is independently operated, relying solely etc. The food bank sincerely thanks all that basis; donating these items will cut food on the support of individuals, corporations, support and donate. bank expenses: canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, tuna fish, peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, soup, rice (one-pound bags), canned yellow vegetables, canned green vegetables and canned fruit. Additional items often requested by the food bank are: flour, lard, oil, coffee, sugar, baby food and cereal. Hygiene items purchased by the food bank and given upon request include: toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo and conditioner (preferably two-in-one), bar soap and toilet paper. The Monte Vista Emergency Food Bank should not be used as a drop off point for leftover yard sale items, household items or clothing. Please donate those items to the local thrift stores. The food bank will however gratefully accept the following: blankets, bed pillows, coats of all sizes, children’s books, and stuff animals. They ask that items donated be gently used and in good, clean condition.
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Wright’s Amusement returning to Stampede
MONTE VISTA—Wright’s Amusements has been providing carnival entertainment for more than 50 years. Family and fun — these two words define Wright’s Amusements like no other carnival company in America. 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?” Wright’s Amusements is based in Elbert, CO, but the carnival travels year-round to state and county fairs, shopping malls, festivals, and special events, entertaining thousands in Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. From the children’s carousel to the newest thrill ride, from the midway to the concessions, it’s family fun. Winner of the prestigious Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) Circle of Excellence Award, Wright’s Amusements is grateful for the recognition of our industry. But they’re most proud of the smiles they see on family faces every day, in every city, at every carnival they create. Help the local community food bank and
File photos
have fun at the same time! On Wednesday, July 22, bring two cans of food to the carnival ticket office and obtain an “all day” pass for $20. Last year, it was estimated Wright’s Amusements and the Stampede Committee raised more than $400 in canned food items. File photos
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Page 13
Adkins, Ballerini to perform at Stampede concert
MONTE VISTA– One of the best-known names in country music will headline the Thursday night concert for the 94th annual Ski-Hi Stampede here on July 23. Trace Adkins’ trademark baritone has powered countless hits to the top of the charts and sold over 10 million albums, cumulatively. The Grammy-nominated member of the Grand Old Opry is a TV personality, actor, author, and spokesman for the Wounded Warrior Program and the American Red Cross, for whom he raised over $1.5 million dollars as winner of NBC’s All-Star Celebrity Apprentice. As a dedicated supporter of the troops, Adkins has performed seven USO Tours. Opening for Adkins in the 7:30 p.m. concert will be up and coming country star Kelsea Ballerini. Hailing from Knoxville, Tenn., the singer/songwriter moved to Nashville, TN at age 15 to chase the dream of becoming a songwriter. Adkins’ autobiography, A Personal Stand: Observations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck, recounts the former oil-rigger’s rise to fame, battles with personal demons and life as a father of five daughters. Trace played a tough as nails biker in The Lincoln Lawyer (starring Matthew McConaughey), he developed and hosted GAC’s “Great American Heroes� and in December, he will host the American Country Awards on FOX for the fourth consecutive year. At age 19, Kelsea signed a publishing deal with Black River Publishing in 2013. Later that year, Kelsea signed a record deal with Black River Entertainment and her single, “Love Me Like You Mean It� from her debut EP is digitally available now. Knowing what lies in one’s heart and chasing that vision is how dreams come true. As a young girl growing up in Knoxville, TN, Kelsea’s vision did not include the wedding dress and white picket fence that her friends talked about. Instead, Kelsea was dreaming up wardrobe changes and stage sets for the major tour she knew she would embark upon one day. As she launches her debut single on Black River Entertainment, Kelsea is entering country music authentically with a song she co-wrote. “I love this song,� Kelsea smiles as she explains the message behind her new single, “Love Me Like You Mean It.� “It’s just a fun, happy, kind of sassy, quirky, song from a confident girl saying, ‘If you’re gonna do this, do it right.’� For Kelsea, doing it right evolved from her first musical influences, before she penned a single
note. She admits getting very caught up in the pop scene of the 2000s, listening to Britney Spears and *NSYNC, while her parents played tunes by Frank Sinatra and Stevie Wonder. “I kind of got this weird mix of old classic music with all the Top 40 pop on the radio,� she says. “I first remember listening to and falling in love with country music when I heard Keith Urban’s ‘Stupid Boy,’ by Sarah Buxton. That song made me want to start listening to and writing music.� From there, the doors flew open and Kelsea began listening to everyone from the Dixie Chicks and Shania Twain to Rascal Flatts and Taylor Swift. Around age 12, Kelsea started journaling, then writing poems and ultimately singing her poems. “I didn’t start out with the intention of anyone hearing it,� Kelsea confesses. “I was writing for me, to say the things I needed to say.� Thus songwriting became an outlet for Kelsea and the playground where she learned the art of being vulnerable. Armed with a penchant for songwriting, Kelsea took her first steps into the recording studio when she was 14. Her mom had given her the studio time as a birthday gift with the intention of simply recording some of Kelsea’s songs so that she had a way to look back on them; however, the opposite happened and her passion deepened. She only looked forward to writing and recording more of her music. “I kind of loved it. I kind of loved it a lot,� Kelsea laughs. This first studio experience also led to Kelsea’s introduction into the music industry. A representative from the recording studio was visually moved by her performance. “He told me that he got chill bumps listening to my music and asked me if this was something I wanted to do,� recalls Kelsea. “Then he said, if I did, he would take me to Nashville and make it happen.� Kelsea made that first trip to Nashville and recorded a demo session. After a second trip, a broken- hearted Kelsea left without the record deal that she anticipated. “I remember that there were a bunch of young females launching around that time,� Kelsea says. “Because of that, a lot of people around me were saying, ‘This will be easy for you.’ So, going into my first meeting at a label I had a lot of confidence. I broke out my guitar from its pink sparkly case, played one song and was stopped. He looked right at me and, referencing an established artist, said, ‘“That Girl� has already made it.’ Then he motioned that the meeting was over.� Please see CONERT on Page 14
Trace Adkins
Kelsea Ballerini
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Sim Balkey to entertain dancers at Stampede
MONTE VISTA— Thursday, Friday and Saturday night’s Stampede dances will feature Sim Balkey’s distinctive voice, which quite simply, doesn’t sound like anyone else in country music today. There’s an edgy intensity that brings out the best in every song whether it’s a vulnerable ballad or uptempo party anthem. Balkey infuses lyrics with a warmth and authority that draws the listener into every song and makes it memorable. Sim’s country roots shine through as his heart-felt vocals and his lyrics paint a picture of pain, love, and the struggle between. Balkey has released an album (Messin’ Around) that is undeniably strong and by the looks of his growing fan base is ready for a broader market. His current single “How ‘Bout We Do That Tonight” hit the Texas Regional Radio scene early in 2015 and quickly plowed into the Top 100 on the Texas Charts and still moving quick. Sim Balkey has great new music, an energetic live show, and plays about 100 nights a year with an ever expanding audience ... keep an eye out, Sim should be coming your way soon. More information available at www. simbalkey.com. Sim Balkey
Courtesy photo
The shirt says it all
CONCERT
File photo
‘Tough enough to wear pink’
Heartbroken, Kelsea cancelled her second label meeting and went home. A few weeks later she had a change of heart when she realized her dreams were still very much alive. “I figured I had two options,” she says. “I could give up or get better. I decided to use that negative experience to find out who I am, and prove him wrong.” Instead of trying to write what was already out there, Kelsea looked for influences at her roots, going back to listening to Stevie Wonder and Frank Sinatra. She began to find her voice when she stopped focusing on being commercial and started being Kelsea. “I realized I didn’t have to try to write music to ‘sound’ country—I’m from Tennessee!” she exclaims. “All I have to do is open my heart and open my mouth and country comes out.” At this point, Kelsea’s music came alive. “That’s when I fell in love with it, when I felt like I started being honest with it,” she says. “Once I figured out my sound, something in me changed, and the drive I had to write more, and really do this, was reenergized.” Kelsea knew she was ready and at age 15 she made the move to Nashville. Shortly after moving to Music City, Kelsea utilized social media to make connections and get meetings with people in the music industry. Kelsea ended up catching the attention of the executives at Black River Entertainment, where she signed a publishing deal in 2013. “I’ve always thought that music is a gift that’s been given to me. It’s something that I need to protect, and do right
Continued from Page 13
by,” shares Kelsea. “I was slow to sign my publishing deal, even after wanting it for all those years. Knowing in my heart Black River was the perfect fit and home for me made this a dream come true,” recalls Kelsea. Not even a year after signing that publishing deal, Kelsea had another dream come true in the form of a gift at the Black River Entertainment Christmas party. “I got my record deal wrapped up in a Christmas gift! It was amazing,” she exclaims. “I knew after signing a publishing deal that without a doubt, BRE is where I wanted my artist career to be. Getting my record deal felt like the perfect piece of the puzzle was coming together, in that moment. To me, Black River is not just a label, it is a family that I wanted to be a bigger part of. When I signed the record deal, in my heart I thought, ‘What do you want to say to the world? Because now, there are people who are going to help you say it.’” The Black River Entertainment recording artist wants to do it all, just as she has envisioned since she was 14. Kelsea laughs and says, “Dreams do come true. I’m seeing it first hand. While I do want to do it all, the arena tours and award shows, most of all, I just want to put out good music that matters.” General admission tickets are $35 pre-sale and reserved seating tickets are $40 and premium reserve are $45 tickets. Tickets can be purchased at the Stampede ticket office, on 1st Ave. in Monte Vista; at Colorado Sports, 611 Main St. in Alamosa; by calling 852-2055 or online at www.skihistampede.com.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Courtesy Photo
The Ski-Hi Stampede Committee recently got together to present a check in the amount of $7,000 to the San Luis Valley Health Foundation. Accepting the check in the front row from to left to right is Board President Sheila Hicks, Board Members Mary Motz and Truman Price and Foundation Director Kelly Gurule. The Stampede Committee has pledged to become “Pillars of the Community,” which means they will have donated over $100,000 to the foundation. With this year’s donation, the group has donated $57,500. The group’s funds are raised annually during their “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” campaign.
‘Tough Enough to Wear Pink’ continues to bring in funds locally MONTE VISTA—The 94 th Ski Hi Stampede Rodeo has once again joined forces with the western industry to raise awareness and funds for the fight against breast cancer. The Tough Enough To Wear Pink (TETWP) campaign debuted at the 2005 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo when one evening of the competition was devoted to the cause. This year, Saturday, July 25, will be TETWP day at the Ski Hi Stampede rodeo, and cowboys and cowgirls are encouraged to wear pink to signify their support. The Stampede Committee, in conjunction with San Luis Health, is encouraging everyone to participate so funds can go to the Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center. One hundred percent of the profits from the “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” t-shirt sales, tips, and a portion of Saturday’s rodeo ticket sales will be donated to the Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center. It’s a day to have great fun for a worthy cause and the public is urged to join in raising awareness and gathering funds for the fight against breast cancer. Wrangler® Tough Enough to Wear Pink™ Founder Terry Wheatley announced in December at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (Wrangler NFR), the TETWP campaign has reached the $20 million fundraising mark to fight breast cancer. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of Tough Enough to Wear Pink. Since its inception in 2004, the campaign has relied on the hard work of regional rodeos and western events across the country. Funds raised stay locally to benefit community breast cancer charities. It is through the dedication of volunteers on the ground at
local events that drives the campaign’s success. “We’re proud to have raised over $20 million since we began 10 years ago. We are proud of the over 300 rodeos and events that participate each year. We are proud of Wrangler, the title sponsor of this campaign. And we are proud of the cowboys and cowgirls who have made this campaign their own,” said founder Terry Wheatley. A breast cancer survivor herself, Wheatley is an entrepreneur, wife and mother to professional rodeo competitors. TETWP was created when Wheatley and former director of special events for Wrangler and now commissioner of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Karl Stressman issued a challenge to the cowboys: Are You Tough Enough To Wear Pink? During one night of the 10-night Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the competitors were dared to wear the color pink to bring attention to the need for early detection and a cure for breast cancer, a disease which affects many families in the western community. Cowboys and cowgirls created a sensation when they galloped into the championship arena ablaze in pink. Inspired rodeo fans soon began asking how they could put on TETWP events at their own hometown rodeos, and the grassroots fundraising took off one rodeo at a time. TETWP continues to be spearheaded by Wheatley, while the Wrangler brand remains the program’s title sponsor, selling the official pink apparel of TETWP. Lacey and Katie Wheatley coordinate with rodeos and other non-rodeo organizations to create the pink-themed fundraisers across the country throughout the year.
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A bunch of bull coming to Ski Hi this year 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. Over the past nine years, Stace Smith has produced more PRCA rodeos than any other PRCA stock contractor. In 2014, Smith Pro Rodeos produced 22 PRCA Rodeos consisting of over 70 performances. 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 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 oneof-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.
A great day at the carnival
Stace Smith
File photo
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Polhamus on the mic again
MONTE VISTA — 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. Returning as announcer at the Ski Hi Stampede again this year is Boyd Polhamus, known for announcing on horseback. It is good to be Boyd. His career has put him behind the microphone at the biggest rodeo events in the world, including 18 times as the announcer for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR). He was selected five additional times as the alternate, putting him on the announcer podium in Las Vegas 23 of the last 24 years. 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 for 21 years to his wife, Sandee. 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
Boyd Polhamus 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.
Look at that!
File photo
This youngster enjoys all there is to see.
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Stampede scholarships available for students
SAN LUIS VALLEY— The San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede committee and Adams State University both know the importance of being involved in local communities and supporting youth. The San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede and Adams State University have teamed up to provide two $3,500 scholarships to any male or female San Luis Valley resident and one $3,500 scholarship to a Adams State University Rodeo Team member. The scholarships will be awarded to qualifying applicants during the 2015 Stampede. 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, ASU Rodeo Team and/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. During the 2014 Stampede rodeo, scholarships were awarded to Nikita Christensen, Emily Pizel and Trudy Rheingans. Applications are available at www.skihistampede.com/scholarships. The Courtesy Photo application deadline is July 10. The San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede and Adams State University have teamed up to provide three $3,500 scholarshps.
Other events around the San Luis Valley JULY 23–26 Ski-Hi Stampede, Monte Vista 23 Trace Adkins Concert, Ski Hi Park, Monte Vista 24 Our Town opening night, CRT, Creede Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Canoe, Kayak & Raft Race, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista 25-26 Santa Anna Y Santiago Festival, San Luis 25 Hollyhock Festival, downtown Saguache John McCutcheon performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Stampede on Adams Street, Monte Vista Steel Stampede Car Show, Chapman Park, Monte Vista 26 Farmers Market, South Fork SFMA Summer Concert Series, Visitors Center, South Fork SLV Antique Iron Club Tractor Pull, Monte Vista 28-Aug.1 Actors’ Lab, Adult Day Camp, CRT, Creede Song and Dance Lab (ages 12+),
CRT, Creede 30–Aug. 1 Covered Wagon Days, Del Norte Kit Carson Wagon Train, Monte Vista/Del Norte 31 Wounded Warriors fundraiser, Del Norte Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara 31-Aug. 1 Beat the Heat, Cole Park, Alamosa 31-Aug. 2 Creede Rock and Mineral Show, Community Center, Creede
7
7-8 8 8–9
9 AUGUST 14 1 La Jara Glory Days parade and festival, La Jara Annual Snowshoe Shuffle, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa 1-2 Juice Newton performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Rock & Mineral Show, Creede 2 Farmers Market, South Fork 4-9 Alumni Week, CRT, Creede 6-12 Fishing Tournament, South Fork 7–9 Crestone Music Festival, Crestone
Rhythms on the Rio Music Festival, South Fork Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara Mushroom Foray, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Kahler Memorial Golf Tournament, Cattails, Alamosa The Burrito Brothers perform aboard RGSR, Alamosa Jubilee Street Party, CRT, Creede Colorado Gators Gatorfest, Mosca Farmers Market, South Fork Merry Makers Dance, Community Building, South Fork Canoe, Kayak & Raft Race, South Fork
Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, Jack Dempsey Park, Manassa 15-16 The Wranglers perform aboard RGSR, Alamosa 15 Silverthread Artists Studio Tour, South Fork/Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Saguache Hiking Group, Grandma’s House, Saguache Fire Academy Fundraiser, Saguache Radio Theatre live performance, Ute Theatre, Saguache Trout Unlimited Fishathon, location TBA, Saguache County 16 Farmers Market, South Fork 17-23 Fun Valley Resort Arts and Crafts Festival, South Fork Please see EVENTS on Page 19
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Parade day
File photo
The Sunflower Bank in Monte Vista had a fitting float that handed out sunflower seeds to the flocks of spectators at the 2014 Ski Hi Stampede Parade.
EVENTS 19
Continued from Page 18
FSWB Community Barbeque, San Juan & 4th street, Saguache Creede Historical Society Program, Creede 21 August: Osage County opens, CRT, Creede Historical Society lecture, Community Church, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara 22-23 Doctor Robert Tribute performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa 22 Saguache Art Festival, downtown Saguache Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Don Richmond performs at the Ute Theatre, Saguache Upper Rio Grande Tour of Homes, Creede 23 Farmers Market, South Fork 25 NPS birthday (National Park Free Day), Great Sand Dunes 28-30 Crestone Energy Fair, Crestone 28 Annual Headwaters Festival, CRT, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, downtown, La Jara 29 Annual Inter-Tribal Pow Wow, Otto Mears Park, Saguache Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa 29-30 Robin and Linda Williams perform aboard RGSR, Alamosa 30 Farmers Market, South Fork
4-7 5 5-6
5-7 6
7-11 11-12 11
12 12-13
13 16 17 18-19 18-20 18 19
20-26 SEPTEMBER 23 3-9 Fishing Tournament, South Fork 4 Farmers Market, downtown, Monte 25 Vista Conejos County Farmers Market, 26 Jack Dempsey Park, Manassa 4-6 Early Iron Festival, Cole Park, Alamosa
Labor Day Weekend Celebration, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Exile performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Colorado Gators End of Summer Roundup, Mosca Labor Day Festival, Antonito National Public Lands Day, Great Sand Dunes Farmers Market, South Fork Colorado 600, South Fork San Luis Valley Potato Festival, Chapman Park, Monte Vista 9/11 Memorial events, Ute Theatre, Saguache Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Rio Costilla Studio Tour, Jaroso Michael Martin Murphey performs aboard RGSR, Alamosa Farmers Market, South Fork Fall Colors Explorer, RGSR, Alamosa Creede Historical Society Program, Creede Melodrama live performance, Ute Theatre, Saguache Cruisin’ the Canyon Car Show, Creede Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista Fall Festival and Quilt Show, Otto Mears Park, Saguache Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa Colorfest and ATV Poker Run, South Fork Colorfest Fishing Tournament, South Fork Farmers Market, downtown, Monte Vista National Park Free Day, Great Sand Dunes Farmers Market, downtown, Alamosa
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Wednesday, July 15, 2015
2014 Stampede fun
The State of Colorado’s Fish and Game float earned the Children’s Favorite Award winner in the 2014 Ski-Hi Stampede Parade.
Photos by Eric R. Flores
Cougar Lesuer was the flag girl all three PRCA performances during the 93rd Annual Ski Hi Stampede.
The state and award-winning Monte Vista High School Band entertained the rows of spectators that lined the streets of Monte Vista on Saturday.
The Molar Express Float made its appearance during the Ski Hi Stampede parade.
Ski Hi Stampede Clown and Barrelman John Harrison performed his Miss Universe specialty act on Saturday during the 93rd annual event.
Tonto made his appearance in the Ski Hi Stampede as he marched down the parade route.
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Top 10 things to do and see in the Valley
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/ 2. CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad was built in 1880 with three feet — narrow gauge — between the tracks instead of four 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 is Colorado’s newest train offering 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 summer months. Reservations can be made by calling 877-726-RAIL or visiting www. coloradotrain.com/ 4. EARLY IRON FESTIVAL Hundreds of vehicles from America’s “early” years in its love affair with the automobile arrive in Alamosa from all over the United States for their annual Labor Day weekend San Luis Valley Early Iron Festival, one of the San Luis Valley’s largest events featuring more than 500 cars. This year marks the 35th anniversary from September 4-6. Early Iron welcomes a variety of vehicles including pickups, custom, street rods, classics and street machines. See www.earlyironclub. com/ 5. RODEOS Colorado’s oldest outdoor rodeo, the Ski Hi Stampede in Monte Vista is a delight for the entire family. This year marks the 94th anniversary of the San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede planned July 23-26. 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. At 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 23, featured entertainment will be Trace Adkins with Opening Act by Kelsea Ballerini. Also enjoy dances, fireworks, carnival and chuckwagon dinner. For information call 719-852-2055 or see www.skihistampede.com The 2015 Alamosa Round-Up, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA), is scheduled this year from June 23-
28 at the Alamosa fairgrounds. Events include: ranch rodeo at 7 p.m. June 23; barbecue and mutton bustin at 6 p.m. June 24; cattle drive and parade at noon June 25; PRCA rodeos at 7:30 p.m. June 25 and 26; rodeo & rails block party at 8 p.m. June 26; demolition derby at 7:30 p.m. June 27; and cowboy church followed by rails concert at 10 a.m. June 28. Buy tickets at The Colorado Welcome Center and Alamosa Big R. See www.alamosaroundup.com 6. 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 7-10 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 50th season. Plays include “Our Town,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Ghost Light” and “August: Osage County.” Tickets are available at the box office on 124 N. Main Street in Creede, or by calling toll free: 866658-2540. Or, log on to www.creederep.org 7. 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 UFO Watchtower and the Colorado Gators, an alligator farm just north of Alamosa on Hwy 17. The “ancient road” ends its journey in Alamosa. 8. SILVER THREAD The Silver Thread Scenic Byway passes through some of the most scenic areas and 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 canons of volcanic tuff before crossing an alpine valley, home to herds of deer and elk. Outside Creede, a driving tour of the area’s mining heritage winds through the rugged geologic formations. Between Creede and Lake City, the highway passes The Slumgullion Earthflow, a geologic form that began 700 years ago. The Silver Tread ends at a second mining town, Lake City. 9. FORT GARLAND The historic Fort Garland Museum takes visitors back in time to the era of Kit Carson, commandant of the fort from 1866-1867, and earlier commanders. 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 history, Fort Garland also highlights the folk art and culture of the Hispanic community 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. 10. CRESTONE MUSIC FESTIVAL The 17th Annual Crestone Music Festival
will be held August 7-9 at the Challenger Golf Club in Crestone. The festival is a 22act, two-stage, multi-genre, multi-cultural event with camping, arts and crafts, great food, Colorado libations, a kid’s zone and
all-age activities. Headliners this year are Robben Ford, The Young Dubliners and Lunar Fire. For ticket and other information, go to www.crestfest.org or call 719-2564533 or 1-855-85MUSIC.
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Wednesday, July 15, 2015
PRCA 2015 Mountain States Circuit Standings All-Around Rank Name 1 Cole Dorenkamp 2 Josh Peek 3 Calvin Brevik 4 Jesse Jolly 5 Josh Griggs 6 J.D. Yates 7 Bray Huxtable
City Lamar, Colo. Pueblo Durango Agate, Colo. Sedan, N.M. Pueblo Douglas, Wyo.
Earnings $9,292.56 $8,031.52 $5,363.78 $3,112.10 $1,188.78 $912.97 $851.16
Bareback Riding 1 Craig Wisehart 2 Joel Schlegel 3 Seth Hardwick 4 Devan Reilly 5 Tyler Scales 6 Weston Garrett 7 Dylan Wahlert 8 Zachariah Phillips 9 David Streweler 10 Shane Stevens 11 Colton Onyett 12 Jerad Schlegel 13 Jeffery ZdZiarski 14 Josh Griggs 15 Seth Coursen 16 Shea Hardwick
Kersey, Colo. Burns, Colo. Laramie, Wyo. Sheridan, Wyo. Severance, Colo. Belle Fourche, S.D. Casper, Wyo. Casper, Wyo. Golden, Colo. Greeley Steamboat Springs Burns, Colo. Sheridan, Wyo. Sedan, N.M. Casper, Wyo. Laramie, Wyo.
$6,641.51 $6,246.30 $3,202.62 $2,153.73 $1,758.63 $1,403.89 $1,376.34 $1,138.22 $961.46 $737.71 $695.60 $557.70 $499.14 $208.68 $194.77 $116.56
Steer Wrestling 1 Seth Brockman 2 Aaron Vosler 3 Josh Peek 4 Tait Kvistad 5 Kyle Maez 6 Cole McNamee 7 Joe Buffington 8 Garrett Henry 9 Payden McIntyre 10 Kyle Broce 11 Riley Krassin 12 Ty Lang 13 Dax Cathcart 14 Riley Jonsson 15 Wyatt Johnson 16 Cody Pratt 17 Bill Claunch 18 Cole Dorenkamp 19 Jesse Jolly 20 Austin Eller 21 Cole Fritzlan 22 Chisum Docheff 23 Bray Huxtable 24 Jacob Sterkel 25 Mike Garcia 26 Coltin Hill
Wheatland, Wyo. Cheyenne, Wyo. Pueblo Grover, Colo. Colo. Pine Bluffs, Wyo. Wheatland, Wyo. Douglas, Wyo. Douglas, Wyo. Cheraw, Colo. Lander, Wyo. Montrose Carpenter, Wyo. Eaton, Colo. Hoyt, Colo. Pueblo Monte Vista Lamar Agate, Colo. Glendo, Wyo. Rifle, Colo. Longmont Douglas, Wyo. Brighton, Colo. Kaycee, Wyo. Blackfoot, Idaho
$10,478.44 $8,288.56 $7,269.64 $6,906.09 $5,418.88 $5,212.59 $2,900.83 $2,645.67 $2,613.67 $2,317.27 $2,182.81 $1,979.29 $1,856.50 $1,549.12 $1,502.51 $1,337.43 $1,105.44 $1,036.35 $1,010.50 $1,003.45 $968.20 $766.33 $727.79 $705.00 $658.00 $621.81
27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37
Teigen Finnerty Taylor Gerkin Wade Sumpter Casey Barnes Troy Brandemuehl Trevor Duhon Kelby Bond Tuff Ramsey Shawn Mills Mills Talon Sterkel Les Shepperson
Team Roping, Headers 1 Cole Dorenkamp 2 Clayton Van Aken 3 J.D. Yates 4 Travis Bounds 5 Ty Blasingame 6 Jay Tittel 7 Calvin Brevik 8 Paul Beckett 9 Garrett Tonozzi 10 Brian Dunning 11 Wade Kreutzer 12 Pate Norell 13 Jake Day 14 Garrett Busby 15 Lynn Campbell 16 Clay Norell 17 J.B. James Jr 18 Tyler Schnaufer 19 Brandon White 20 Cody Callaway 21 Lee Hagler 22 Corey Whinnery 23 Pat Grieve 24 Bob Grieve 25 Clay Shoop 26 OJ Huxtable
Wheatland, Wyo. Colo. Fowler, Colo. Maybell, Colo. Douglas, Wyo. Mancos, Colo. Avondale, Colo. Olathe, Colo. Greeley Brighton, Colo. Midwest Wyo.
$549.90 $540.50 $534.04 $488.80 $441.80 $394.80 $291.40 $286.70 $244.40 $235.00 $181.10
Lamar Descanso, Calif. Pueblo Grand Junction Ramah, Colo. Pueblo Durango Laramie, Wyo. Fruita, Colo. McClave, Colo. La Veta, Colo. Delta, Colo. Upton, Wyo. Millsap, Texas Loma, Colo. Delta, Colo. Bennett, Colo. Pueblo Casper, Wyo. Gillette, Wyo. Fort Lupton, Colo. Powderhorn, Colo. Baggs, Wyo. Severance, Colo. Colo. Douglas, Wyo.
$10,621.72 $8,100.83 $7,837.48 $6,414.89 $6,099.64 $3,349.93 $2,947.02 $2,929.35 $2,890.14 $2,101.60 $2,001.83 $1,941.59 $1,772.67 $1,768.38 $1,768.37 $1,243.63 $1,087.58 $938.35 $919.32 $740.25 $567.53 $564.00 $361.93 $348.97 $188.00 $123.37
Team Roping, Heelers 1 Cullen Teller Pierce, Colo. $9,934.31 2 Trey Yates Pueblo 8,948.33 3 Joe Roderick Loma, Colo. $6,414.89 4 Ryon Tittel Pueblo $6,267.91 5 J.W. Borrego Weston, Colo. $4,669.97 6 Trevor Kirchenschlager Yuma, Colo. $4,206.16 7 Todd Wilson Limon, Colo. $2,897.14 8 Jesse Jolly Agate, Colo. $2,101.60 9 Kyon Kreutzer La Veta, Colo. $2,001.83 10 Chad Wahlert Kersey, Colo. $1,991.15 11 Cole Cooper Loma, Colo. $1,946.97 12 D.J. Tidyman Carpenter, Wyo. $1,941.59 13 Wade Masters Durango $1,822.55 Please see STANDINGS on Page 23
Flyin’ leap A rider takes a leap at his steer in the 2014 rodeo. Photo by Eric R. Flores
94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
STANDINGS 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
Hank Bounds Jared Bilby Clayton Van Aken Trevor Schnaufer T.J. Watts Coley Nicholls Joby Barquin Justin Hammerich Riley Pedro Pake Younger Chad Braun Greg Baldwin Randy Mekelburg C.J. Scheller Justin Johnson Bray Huxtable
Palisade, Colo. Bridgeport, Neb. Descanso, Calif. Pueblo Eads, Colo. Kinnear, Wyo. Buffalo, Wyo. Honolulu, Hawaii Grand Junction Dixon, Wyo. Eagle, Colo. Yuma, Colo. Ault, Colo. Casper, Wyo. Douglas, Wyo.
Page 23
Fishy, fishy, fishy
Continued from Page 22 $1,768.37 $1,240.91 $982.38 $938.35 $930.60 $919.32 $898.88 $740.25 $567.53 $564.00 $361.93 $348.97 $193.87 $188.00 $123.37 $123.37
Saddle Bronc Riding 1 Brody Cress 2 Colin Stalley 3 Colton Miller 4 Blaze Cress 5 Chanse Darling 6 Whit Peterson 7 Lyle Welling 8 Brady Dinwoodie 9 Josh Griggs 10 Eric Gewecke 11 Jay Harrison 12 Andy Clarys 13 Chet Johnson 14 Garrett Buckley 15 Ryan Montroy 16 Justin Hegwer 17 Jacob Meiers
Hillsdale, Wyo. Riverton, Wyo. Lance Creek, Wyo. Hillsdale, Wyo. Hyattville, Wyo. Torrington, Wyo. Crawford, Neb. Westbourne, MB Sedan, N.M. Gillette, Wyo. Pierce, Colo. Riverton, Wyo. Sheridan, Wyo. Craig, Colo. Pagosa Springs Rifle, Colo. Mills, Wyo.
$9,549.31 $2,702.65 $2,278.84 $2,018.02 $1,974.86 $1,902.56 $1,816.18 $1,160.58 $980.10 $560.08 $560.08 $428.64 $265.08 $214.32 $174.84 $142.88 $135.36
Tie Down Roping 1 Brice Ingo 2 Darnell Johnson 3 Calvin Brevik 4 Trevor Thiel 5 Don Coffell 6 Dalton DeWinne 7 Josh Peek 8 Jake Hamilton 9 Scotty Shelton 10 Cody Gerard 11 Britt Bath 12 Justin Stuckey 13 Joey Dickens 14 Ryan Belew 15 Jayce Johnson 16 D.J. Scanga 17 Ian Welles 18 Laramie Phillips 19 J.D. Schweiger 20 Kade Kinghorn 21 Tyler Thiel 22 Clayton Huffman 23 Brandon Kammerzell 24 Kyle Dickens 25 Joe James 26 Joe Campbell 27 Scot Meeks 28 Marvin Tavarez Jr.
Pueblo Pueblo Durango Greeley Iredell, Texas Helotes, Texas Pueblo Casper, Wyo. Pueblo Eagle, Colo. Burns, Wyo. Kiowa, Colo. Loveland La Junta Hemingford, Neb. Pueblo West Buffalo, Wyo. Iredell, Texas Sterling Buffalo, Wyo. Greeley Strasburg, Colo. Eaton, Colo. Loveland Rawlins, Wyo. Shoshoni, Wyo. Clyde, Texas Pleasanton, Texas
$5,686.88 $4,655.55 $4,115.34 $3,538.75 $3,314.45 $3,055.74 $2,685.82 $2,655.50 $2,607.38 $2,588.19 $1,488.12 $1,353.51 $1,128.73 $1,019.53 $994.73 $867.83 $866.38 $758.64 $750.58 $638.39 $637.00 $557.63 $514.70 $388.10 $300.00 $250.00 $177.03 $150.00
Steer Roping 1 Travis Mills Gillette, Wyo. 2 Casey Tillard Glenrock, Wyo. 3 Troy Tillard Douglas, Wyo. 4 Ty Tillard Douglas, Wyo. 5 Reo Lohse Kaycee, Wyo. 6 Chris Glover Keenesburg, Colo. 7 Wade Shoemaker D.V.M. Greeley 8 Trey Sheets Cheyenne, Wyo. 9 Dave Sedar Evansville, Wyo. 10 Trent Mills Gillette, Wyo. 11 T.K. Tillard Douglas, Wyo. 12 J.D. Yates Pueblo 13 Jed Gleghorn Yuma, Colo. 14 Will McBride Ogallala, Neb. Bull Riding 1 Bobby Welsh 2 Brock Russell 3 Josh Koschel 4 Jacob Smith 5 Bowyn Allemand 6 Clayton Savage 7 Kody Lostroh 8 Brian Larson 9 Patrick Geipel 10 Tyler Orchard 11 Drew Flynn 12 Andy Coughlin 13 Tyler Willis 14 Ty Wallace 15 Jake Booco 16 Dillon Snare 17 Brady Menge 18 Cody Johansen 19 Aukai Kaai 20 Brandon Olson 21 Garrett Norby 22 Jay Turner 23 Cyler Doremus 24 Cody Foster 25 Jason Blasdel 26 Kody Pierce 27 Wes Wahlert 28 Mana Kaia 29 Evan Morales 30 Elijah Mora 31 Jarrod Ford 32 Kanin Asay
Gillette, Wyo. Rye, Colo. Nunn, Colo. LaSalle, Colo. Buffalo, Wyo. Yoder, Wyo. Ault, Colo. Erie, Colo. Colo. Baggs, Wyo. Fla. DeSmet, S.D. Wheatland, Wyo. Collbran, Colo. Hayden, Colo. Florissant, Colo. Fruita, Colo. Kersey, Colo. Honolulu, Hawaii Franktown, Colo. Walsenburg, Colo. Colo. Ft. Collins Dixon, Wyo. Fruita, Colo. Keenesburg, Colo. Galeton, Colo. Maui, Hawaii Buffalo, Wyo. Wiggins, Colo. Greeley, Colo. Powell, Wyo.
$3,129.42 $3,082.67 $2,863.09 $2,573.47 $1,598.00 $1,268.73 $1,208.55 $1,169.76 $955.20 $935.81 $701.86 $332.92 $268.56 $268.56
$9,219.47 $5,861.15 $5,423.28 $4,862.93 $4,744.87 $4,113.68 $3,561.04 $3,468.59 $2,575.61 $2,103.51 $1,997.28 $1,920.83 $1,727.92 $1,684.10 $1,625.20 $1,166.10 $1,136.96 $1,022.56 $1,002.93 $939.62 $785.53 $733.33 $568.13 $539.16 $463.33 $450.00 $383.33 $375.00 $187.50 $183.33 $137.50 $120.00
Womens PRA 2015 Mountain States Standings 1 Kelley Schnaufer Pueblo $4,326.27 2 C.J. Vondette Rifle, Colo. $3,010.23 3 Mackenzie Scott Estes Park, Colo. $2,372.93 4 Dianne Bath Burns, Wyo. $2,343.38 5 Brittany Pozzi Victoria, Texas $2,057.63 6 Ronnie Will Silt, Colo. $1,455.61 7 Elaine Hollings Pavillion, Wyo. $1,353.41 8 Jenna Waggoner Fowler, Colo. $1,170.39 9 Hope Sickler Pueblo $1,145.48 10 Annie Campbell Shoshoni, Wyo. $1,139.20 11 Paxton Segelke Snyder, Colo. $1,054.71 12 Christy Loflin Franktown, Colo. $1,006.74 13 Wendy Chambers Ft. Lupton, Colo. $948.27 14 Lana Brown Eads, Colo. $907.38 15 Cassidy Kruse Gillette, Wyo. $811.31 Unofficial standings reflect placement at time of web posting and can change (www.prorodeo.com)
Staff photo
This young lady seems determined to catch a big one at the carnival during the 2014 Ski Hi Stampede.
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94th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 15, 2015