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OFFICIAL PROGRAM
Ski-Hi Stampede Ski-Hi Park Monte Vista
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
July 28, 29, 30 & 31, 2016 Valley Publishing 'JSTU "WF r .POUF 7JTUB $PMP
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95th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Welcome to the 95th Annual Ski Hi Stampede BY ANTHONY GUERRERO
MONTE VISTA—Welcome to the 95th Annual Ski Hi Stampede, Colorado’s “oldest pro rodeo.” Beginning in 1919 the event has been held every year in Monte Vista for nine decades except for two years during World War II. Every Stampede brings nationally renowned bull riders, country western musicians and a carnival. It has expanded in recent years to include a car show and a street fair. The fun-filled week is a deep San Luis Valley tradition, and travelers from every corner of Colorado and the United States stop in the city to experience one of southern Colorado’s proudest events. This year will kick off on Wednesday, July 27 with Wright’s Amusement Carnival. The carnival runs during every day of the Ski Hi Stampede. It features great rides, games and food. Wright’s Amusement Carnival is a recipient of the prestigious Outdoor Amusement Business Association Circle of Excellence Award. The carnival brings thrills to all attendees and everyone is guaranteed a smile on their face. On Thursday night the party kicks up a notch with the annual concert, the first of three dances and the chuckwagon dinner. Before enjoying the concert there is an opportunity to enjoy a great chuckwagon dinner sponsored by the Monte Vista Rotary and Monte Vista Kiwanis. It’s always delicious. Josh Turner, famous for such songs as “Long Black Train” and “Why Don’t We Just Dance,” will headline this year’s concert. Up and coming singer and Colorado native Clare Dunn will open the performance. With the popularity and high name recognition of Turner this year’s concert is sure to echo for years to come. Be sure to catch the fireworks afterwards. Following the concert, plan to attend the Stampede dance featuring the music of Sim Balkey. It’s always filled with toe-tapping tunes, cold beer, laughs and friends. In fact, visit the Stampede dance on Friday and Saturday too. Friday morning will be the first parade in downtown Monte Vista. Every year this parade features local businesses and organizations who decorate colorful floats and entertain the crowd. A favorite is the candy and trinkets thrown from the floats for children and the young at heart to take home. The parade will continue and be bigger and better on Saturday morning. Remember the fun doesn’t stop after the parades. There is a Steel Stampede Car Show at Chapman Park and a hamburger fry downtown. Also, be sure to stop by the local businesses to experience
Photo by Eric R. Flores
The bullfighters, Cody Emerson and Peanut Pierce Jr., step in to protect a downed bull rider on after the final ride on Sunday. the full Stampede. Of course the point of Stampede is the rodeo. This is no ordinary small town rodeo. This is an official Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) event. Running Saturday through Sunday the events bring nationally recognized bull riders, rodeo announcer and rodeo clowns. The cowboys compete in several events such as barrel racing, team roping, steer wrestling, bull riding, and more. The bulls are rough and tough, the cowboys resilient, the clowns are hilarious and it’s great family fun. Another welcome. We hope you enjoy the 95th Annual Ski Hi Stampede.
Right: A young cowpoke made his feelings for the red, white and blue known as he proudly waved his flag as floats went by on First Avenue during last year’s Friday parade.
Bottom: Wright’s Amusement’s Carnival brings out crowds to enjoy the many rides and try their luck in winning a big prize. Photos by Jennifer Alonzo
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95th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
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Stampede parade theme is ‘Spurs & Saddles’
MONTE VISTA—Make plans now to attend the Ski-Hi Stampede parades, taking place at 10 a.m. on both Friday, July 29 and Saturday July 30 in downtown Monte Vista. On this 95th anniversary of Stampede, the theme is a fitting one— “Spurs & Saddles.” The parade committee encourages participation from the community to make this year’s parades memorable. There is no entry fee charged. The parades are funded by the generous donations and support of the community. The committee does ask that entries are decorated and registered. Entry forms are available at the Colorado Potato Administration Office near Safeway in Monte Vista or online at www.skihistampede. com. Those participating in the parade both days will be eligible for prizes which will be awarded in several different categories. The parade route will go west on Highway 160 (First Avenue), turning South onto Davis Street for one block then returning east on Second Avenue back to Safeway. Floats line up on Highway 160 east of the railroad crossing by Fullenwider Park beginning at 8:30 a.m. Horses and riders gather behind C & L Container, near the Monte Vista Information Center. Bikes, walkers, and four-wheelers gather at Fullenwider Park. The parade committee asks for parade goers’ patience and cooperation as they deal with traffic delays and road closures. Highway 160 through town will be closed beginning at 9 a.m. on both days. Traffic will be redirected around town enabling the parade to line up. The Monte Vista Police Department will be assisting with parade traffic and some streets will be roped off. Please do not remove the barriers. They are in place for your safety. Please enjoy the parades, don’t litter, and be safe. Enjoy the parades both days and continue to keep the long-standing tradition of the San Luis Valley Stampede celebration going Photos by Jennifer Alonzo strong. Last year’s theme was “Proud to be an American” and the Colorado State Veterans Center float was bursting with pride.
Thank you to the parade donors for another great year Monte Vista Machine Tool The Ski Hi Stampede Parade Committee Monte Vista Potato Growers would like to thank the following individuals Monte Vista Rotary Club and businesses for their contributions. Their Monte Vista Safeway continued support makes our parades possible. Myers Bros Truck & Tractor, Inc. A Tech Inc. Nino’s Absolute Shine Notes & Numbers Aspen Produce The Petal’er Victor & Laura Ast Pepper Equipment Pam Bricker Troy Plane Insurance Agency, Inc. Bristol Design Poole Chemical Co. Glen Burnham Rio Grande Savings & Loan CBI Printers Brian Roberts, DDS Charizma Hair Salon Rocky Mountain Ag China Garden Rogers Family Mortuary Colorado Potato Administration Committee San Luis Valley Federal Bank Colorado Sports San Luis Valley REC Ron & Carolyn David Ray & Colette Skeff Del Norte Bank Southern Colorado Computer Services Edward D. Jones Sparkle Cleaners Farm Fresh Direct Sunflour Bakery Dwight & Kandy Freeman David & Hope Tonso Walter Fullwood, CPA J. Byron & Amy Uhrich Grower Shipper Potato Co. V & V Hardware Gunbarrel Station Valley Church of the Nazarene Thrift Store Hi-Land Potato Co., Inc. Valley Lumber Co. Dr. David Hinkley Valley Monument Jack’s Market Pharmacy Wenta Nip & Sanitation KSLV Radio Station Wilbur Ellis Company The Legacy/Monte Vista Investors, LLC William Family Chiropractic McCormick – Milne Produce *Additional sponsors may have contributed McNitt Produce after press time Metz Potato Co., LLC Monte Vista Athletic Club A special thank you to the following Monte Vista Cooperative individuals for their help each year: Monte Vista Country Club Shon Davis, Carol Keller and Cliff Kincannon Monte Vista Eye Care Center /Valley Communications Monte Vista Journal Kelly & Brett Deacon/Deacon Farms Monte Vista Kiwanis
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From Shetland pony to convertible, Sullivan to lead Friday’s parade
MONTE VISTA—On Friday, Harvey Sullivan will be in the Stampede Parade, but it will not be the first time. Back when he was 11, he portrayed Fred Harmon’s “Little Beaver” and rode a Shetland pony down the streets of Monte Vista. At 83, he again gets to ride through town with the crowds waving and cheering. This time, however, he will be riding in a convertible, leading the parade, while being honored as a 2016 Stampede parade marshal. Harvey was raised north of Center by his uncle and aunt, Pete and Georgia David. He spent summers and Christmas holidays with his Mother in Chama, N.M., but had lost his father just after he was two years old. Having been raised in the Valley he developed a strong work ethic. In fact, after graduating from Center High School he wanted to enlist in the Air Force, but did not get his uncle’s blessing until after potato harvest was finished. When the crop was in, he indeed went to serve his country. As Harvey recalls, he came home on leave from Korea and was just hanging around in Center when a car honked and pulled up beside him. Riding in it was Janice “Jan” Edwards and her “then” boyfriend. Harvey thought she was the best looking, smartest gal he had ever seen, and the next night he was taking her out. The other guy was no longer in the picture. He and Jan were a couple! Later, while stationed in South Carolina for seven months Harvey got to come home for a 30-day leave during Stampede. As he and Jan were on their way to the Stampede dance with friends, someone suggested that he and Jan should just get married, so off to Taos, N.M. they went and came back as Mr. and Mrs. After his time in the service, Harvey and Jan lived in the Valley while he worked for the Center Soil Conservation District in 1956. He recalled the wind blowing the dirt so badly that at times they had to shut down the tractors. It was during one of these episodes that he came to the house and told Jan that he never wanted to drive a tractor again. She said fine, so they moved to Greeley and Harvey started college, but it was not the right place or right time. They returned home to the Valley and Harvey began working at the Fassett Department Store. Every evening when the store closed, he went to the field and worked driving a tractor until after dark. Eventually he decided to try college again, this time, at the right place— Adams State. He completed his bachelor’s and then with G-I benefits
applied for his masters in secondary school administration. As Harvey put it, he completed five years of college in four years while working two jobs and had two kids. His first teaching job was in Glenwood Springs where he taught Health and P.E. His classroom was in the basement of the Colorado Hotel, which was actually the Frontier Bar. While there he started the wrestling program and the baseball program. One day he was called out of class for a phone call. That call was his future calling; it was from Monte Vista High School. He was offered a job teaching social studies and acting as head basketball coach. He and Jan decided they should return to the Valley and take the new position. With now three children in tow, they loaded up and moved to a rental house on Adams Street in Monte Vista. They hadn’t even finished unpacking before Harvey was sent off to a football coaching clinic. He does recall they lost their first game to Durango 39 to 0, but they won every other game that year. He later started coaching basketball at Central Auditorium and then track. He also formed the “Posse Club” for students who were not in sports. Harvey continued to coach various sports in Monte Vista until 1966. He taught at the school until 1970, and then became the high school principal. In 1976 he became Monte Vista Secondary School Principal serving both the high school and junior high. Harvey served in that capacity until his retirement in 1989. Through the years Harvey and Jan helped many struggling students and gave them a place to call home. Many stories and memories could be shared about the love and support given to these young people by the Sullivans. They touched many lives in many ways. Harvey remembers Stampede time in the Valley with fondness, not only his early parade ride, his romance and marriage, but also horse racing days. He recalled being asked by Ward Mathias to help out with the horse races which were a part of Stampede decades ago. He built stalls, worked the track with his tractor and served as a night manager at the races. Jan got involved and was in charge of the programs. Harvey said he could tell stories about those days too. Harvey and Jan started raising Angus cattle on their ranch just north of Monte Vista in 1980. This had been a dream of theirs for years. Harvey always said that Jan was the
Harvey Sullivan best at picking out the most promising bulls for the herd and so together they made a successful cattle operation. They worked as a team until Jan’s passing last July. At the time of the interview for this article, Harvey was hospitalized and recovering from surgery. He was easily remembering and sharing more stories, dates, facts, and scores than could possibly be given in this one short write-up. He and Jan have given much to this community and through their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, the legacy will continue. Daughter Toni Romero (husband Manuel) teaches math at Monte Vista Middle School. Daughter Terri Paulson (husband Rock) teaches science at Sargent School. Son Patrick Sullivan (wife Cathy) is the Rio Grande County Road & Bridge Dept. supervisor and chief of the Monte Vista Fire Dept. Son Richard Sutherland is retired from the U.S. Air Force. His Grandson Jason Romero,
now deceased, coached Monte Vista Middle School basketball and summer league baseball. Grandson Justin Romero (wife Corin) teaches math and band at Monte Vista High School. Grandson Ryan Paulson was teaching and has now taken over the ranch operation. Grandson Rafe Paulson teaches Math and Science at Sargent High School. Grandson Cody Sullivan is the State of Colo. engine captain with the Division of Fire Prevention & Control and serves on the Monte Vista Fire Dept. Granddaughter Brittany Sullivan is attending Adams State University studying nursing. Harvey also has three great-grandsons: Stetson, Easton and Landon Romero who are already collecting trophies for their dirt-track motorcycling. Hats off to Harvey as he rides by in Friday’s parade. He was chosen to be honored as a Stampede Parade Marshal in recognition of the many lives he has touched through the years in our community.
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‘Gizmo’ to entertain Stampede-goers
MONTE VISTA — This year’s Ski Hi Stampede specialty act, Gizmo McCracken, has been entertaining crowds across the country for 39 years. He became a member of the PRCA in 1992, only 24 years ago. Since that time the list of accomplishments has grown beyond his belief. Working 14 PRCA circuit finals rodeos, Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo, Cheyenne Frontier Days twice, nominated Coors Man in the Can three times, nominated for Comedy Act of the Year four times and topped off with being a featured act at the 2005 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Gizmo takes pride in the fact that his humor is good, clean, family style comedy.
Courtesy photos
“Sometimes it just don’t seem right to have this much fun and get paid for it,” he said. Gizmo travels the country from Canada to Texas, from the East Coast to the West Coast, logging some 45,000 miles a year through dozens of states. He started his career as a bullfighter and moved into stand-up comedy on a show in Branson, MO. Gadgets and gizmos that went sour were often part of his routine, hence the name “Gizmo, The World’s Greatest Inventor.” “A lot of clowns and specialty acts sell themselves with a bucking car or dancing horse,” he said. “I supply character. “I like to keep people looking for me and wondering what I am going to do next.” The acts share a high energy, clean, family oriented feel that adds a fresh new atmosphere to any rodeo he is part of. Gizmo is the best comedy entertainer that this sport has to offer. Regardless of whether you have seen him before or this is your first experience, you will leave laughing.
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Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Ski-hi salutes our STONE’S FARM SUPPLY Farm Credit Services
Dodge/Ram Town n Country
National Guard
Chilis
Ninos
SLV Health
Monte Vista Coop
Wall, Smith Bateman
Wilbur Ellis
Colorado Potato Administration
Mountain View Restaurant
Rio Grande Savings and Loan
Wright’s Amusement
Ion Graphics
Community Banks
NAPA
Alamosa State Bank
Rogers Family Mortuary
First Southwest Bank
Big R of Alamosa
Fun Valley
6XQÁRZHU %DQN
Farm Fresh Direct, LLC
Alamosa Building Supply/La Jara Trading Post Pepper’s Schmeiding Produce Canon CIA Leavitt
Absolute Shine ATEC Valley Wide Health Monte Vista Machine Tool Emerald Ranch Summit Livestock Exchange Colorado Sports C&L Container Southwest Liquor
95th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
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stampede 2016 sponsors 6XQÁRXU %DNHU\
Cooley and Sons
Southwest Liquor
KYDN/KSLV
Valley Publishing, Inc.
Dell’s Insurance
Top Value
Browns Septic
Metz Family
ITC
Sonic
Monte Vista Potato Growers
State Farm Insurance Troy Plane
ASU Athletic Department
Colorado Choice
Porter Realty
Aarons
Ecodynamics
Circle D Farms
Dairy Queen
Valley Lumber
Rio Grande Seed and Grain
Wenta Nip Ensignal Sorum Tractor Valley Meat Marks Outdoor Sports US Tractor & Harvest Poole Chemical Pizza Hut U.S. Tractor
Valley Wide Welding RPE Safeway City Market
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95th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
Claunch family honored as Saturday’s marshals BY SYLVIA LOBATO MONTE VISTA—For 60 years, the Claunch family has been part of the Ski Hi Stampede, with toddlers too small to walk riding horses in the parade. Now head of the huge family, Bucky Claunch is in his 80s and would still work his cattle and take care of his ranch, had it not been for a few fractures now and then. He smiles as he thinks of the generations before him and the one he created. Daughter Stacy Claunch Maker explains, “He built a generation that was tough.” While the family has been a big part of the parade since 1956, there hasn’t been a lot of recognition. Albert R. Sr. and Clarine Claunch, parents and grandparents of the clan, were grand marshals in 1989, then many parades went down Adams Street in Monte Vista before this year’s Saturday parade, when Bucky and his entire living family will be so honored. Stacy says she’s working to get all the family to ride in the parade and finding enough Palominos for them to ride. In 1956, all the family rode the beautiful, almost-white horses and dressed alike. Grandma Clarine made all the outfits on an old treadle sewing machine, measuring with her hands, “and they all fit perfectly,” says Stacy. In Bucky’s eyes, the family wasn’t raised to give up. He is proud of the honors, buckles and saddles they have received in rodeo competition over the years.
Sister Sylvia Claunch was the first Miss Stampede in 1959, and Bucky won a buckle in men’s barrel racing in 1960. Stampede queens in addition to Sylvia, were Clarine in 1967, Cindy Wallace Claunch in 1976, Betty Claunch in 1984 and Michelle in 1993. Irene Francis, 1975, Lorrita Francis in 1991 and Stacy Claunch in 2004 were first alternate Miss Stampedes. Bucky is proud of his race horse, Wave of Fire, which began his career in 1968 and brought home ribbons and purses in many other locations. The Claunches breed their own horses. Stacy, one of Bucky’s two children, has won barrel races in Alamosa, Manassa and at the Ski Hi Stampede. “I was her trainer,” Bucky says with a proud smile. “Trained my race horses, too.” Her brother, Bucky Jr., has followed the footsteps of his famous dad, who has taken home the honors in bareback riding, bulldogging, relay racing and horse racing. “I did some wild horse racing and wild cow milking,” Bucky says, noting that when he roped something, he got it. All except for one old cow, who kept escaping rather than getting milked. “I finally grabbed her by the tail and went clown… I kicked her in the rear,” Bucky laughs. His grandfather, Curtis Claunch, rode a palomino in the parade during 1956. He lived to the ripe old age of 96, while his son, Albert, lived to pass the century mark.
Albert R. Claunch Sr. with his sons Bucky, Bill, Albert Jr., Alfred and Arthur
“My grandmother was born in a pup tent on Greenie,” Bucky says, noting that this toughness spearheaded the family tradition of excellence and toughness. Children of Albert and “Rhea” are sons, Bucky, Bill, Albert, Alfred and Arthur and daughters, Sylvia Lorine, Loretta and Clarine. Stacy is proud of the fact that all her aunts were part of the Dream Catchers flag drill team and a couple won the pancake races in Alamosa, with one going on to national competition. Bucky says the tradition was winning. If one got thrown off, it was to get back on again and win. And win, they have. Bucky admits it wasn’t all skill and hard work. “God had to be riding with me… I rode bulls for 40 years, as well as bareback horses and bulldogging.” Stack sums it up: “We are good, honest, hard-working people.” Bucky Claunch Courtesy photos
t i Historic Downtown s i V
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Monte Vista
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Are you tough enough to wear pink? BY LYNDSIE FERRELL
SAN LUIS VALLEY— For 95 years the Ski-Hi Stampede has entertained crowds from all over the country and provided one of the best pro-rodeo events in the state. Not only has the Ski Hi Stampede brought joy to the Valley, guests to the area and fun for all who attend, they have also provided donations to a local cause and have helped save the lives of many through their generosity. The Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center was created when Miner, a local teacher, was diagnosed with breast cancer after her fourth child was born. Miner lost her fight with cancer and her family approached the San Luis Valley Health with the idea and starting funds for a center where women could go for early detection, prevention and all the state of the art equipment needed to fight the disease. It was in 2006 that the members of SkiHi Stampede board of directors approached the hospital and asked if they could help by becoming a part of a nation-wide program known as Tough Enough to Wear Pink. The program is an initiative supported by Wrangler and has participants from around the country. The Stampede Committee has pledged to become “Pillars of the Community,” which means they will have donated over $100,000 to the SLV Health Foundation. “The Ski Hi Stampede committee’s commitment to the TETWP campaign has raised over $64,000 to directly benefit the Stephanie L. Miner Women’s Imaging Center. They are not very far from their goal of becoming one of our distinguished Pillars. I’m sure they can reach their goal before the 100th anniversary of the rodeo,” commented Kelly Gurule, SLV Health Foundation director. This year, Pink Saturday will be sponsored by Valley-Wide Welding. The company will be giving the top winners from each category in the rodeo a $100 bonus if they wear the Tough Enough to Wear Pink t-shirt. Also according to Kay Harmon, proceeds from all merchandise and t-shirt sales will be matched by the Ski-Hi Stampede through ticket sales from the entire event on Saturday. The t-shirt design was revamped, and the committee will be selling a different shirt this year. The Stampede committee, in conjunction with the San Luis Valley Health Foundation, is encouraging everyone to participate. 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. “We really hope everyone is tough enough to wear pink,” said Gurule. T-shirts and other merchandise are available now at the imaging center in the Alamosa hospital and at the Monte Vista Chamber. All staff and volunteers for the event will be wearing pink throughout the festivities. Tough enough to Wear Pink was created by project founder Terry Wheatley in 2004. Wrangler presented the pink western shirts during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo that same year and has continued on as the head
Courtesy Photo
The Ski-Hi Stampede Committee got together in June to present a check in the amount of $7,000 to the San Luis Valley Health Foundation. Accepting the check in the front row from left to right are board members Jacki Kennedy, Mary Motz and President Sheila Hicks. Stampede committee members include: Mark Deacon, Karla Willschau, Karen Deacon, Charlie Burd, Cliff Edwards, Jason Tillman, Nick Malone, Derek Cooper, Greg Metz, Bob Carlucci, Dan Burns, David Cooper, CE Glunz, Brandon Rogers, Eric Kimberling, Keith Rogers and Matthew Deacon. sponsor for events nationwide. The program has raised cancer awareness as well as raised funds for research, equipment and to help families with financial assistance. The amount of money raised is staggering in the 12 years since the program’s inception. Wrangler donates all funds raised that come through their program to the national Breast Cancer Research Foundation that has been dubbed one of the best charitable programs in the nation. According to the website, “The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF) was founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder as an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to funding innovative clinical and translational research. In 2010, BCRF awarded $33 million to 172 scientists across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. Currently, more than 90 cents of every dollar donated is directed to breast cancer research and awareness programs.” Gurule was pleased to talk about the things the donations have done for the center. Funds from previous years have been used to purchase equipment and maintain the center so the services provided there can be available to those that need them. “There is one thing that people really need to understand. The money that is raised here stays here. It helps local residents and provides local services,” said Gurule. The center in Alamosa benefits solely from the
funds raised during Ski-Hi Stampede, keeping the money local is of the utmost importance. Breast cancer awareness, prevention and early detection is paramount in the fight against this disease. The center has recently extended its hours in order to meet the needs of the Valley
and encourage woman to speak with their physicians for a referral to the center. Through these efforts, several women around the world have found the tools and support necessary to overcome the disease and find new hope in life.
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Stampede concert to feature Dunn, Turner MONTE VISTA– Multi-platinum MCA Nashville recording artist Josh Turner, is one of country music’s most recognizable hit-makers, and will be the headliner when the 95th annual Ski Hi Stampede opens on Thursday, July 28. Opening for Turner on July 28 will be up and coming star and southeast Colorado native Clare Dunn. As a family man, a philanthropist, a devoted Christian, and a passionate sports fan, you might say Josh Turner’s commitments run as deep as his voice. Of course, he’s also a double-platinumselling singer, songwriter and disciple of traditional country music, a mentor to up-and-coming artists —and one of the youngest members of the Grand Ole Opry. All of those layers construct Josh’s new album, Punching Bag. His fifth for MCA Nashville, the record is a knockout collection of bluegrassinfluenced barnburners, lonesome laments, and the slow and steady love ballads on which Josh’s trademark baritone excels. The follow-up to 2010’s Haywire, which yielded the No. 1 hits “Why Don’t We Just Dance” and “All Over Me,” Punching Bag represents Josh in fighting shape. Throughout all 11 songs, he bobs and weaves like a champ, exhibiting new range in both his voice and his songwriting. Josh penned eight of the record’s eleven tracks, including the rollicking title song that, he says, set the tone for the entire project. “When the idea for ‘Punching Bag’came along, it really hit me,” Josh says, pun intended. “It became the central idea for this record.” Ironically, the up-and-at-’em tune was inspired by a particularly down day for the singer. “I’ve learned that songs come to you in various ways, from all different angles,” he says. “Nothing was going my way that day, and I felt like I was up against the world. When I got home, my wife Jennifer and I were talking about things that happened and I said, ‘You know, I just feel like a punching bag, like life is beating me up.’” Soon, Josh was off and writing, brainstorming lyrics with one of his most trusted creative partners, Pat McLaughlin. “I wanted to express the idea that life is tough,” he says. “You get a lot punches thrown at you and a lot of times you’re not in control. But you have to take those punches and keep moving forward,” he says. This is exactly the position Josh found himself in while making the album. “With this record, I had just gone through a lot of craziness in my life,” recalls the father of three young boys: Hampton, Colby and Marion. “We had just had our third child and I had spent two years building a writer’s cottage, a log cabin for me to write in. It was a very stressful time getting all that done.” But when the bell rang, Josh was still standing. And with something to show for it--all eight songs that Josh wrote or co-wrote for the album were conceived in that very cottage on his Tennessee property. A refuge from the distractions of life, the cabin, with its wraparound porch and stone fireplace, also serves as a depository for Josh’s priceless musical mementos. “It has all the awards I’ve won over the years, a red, white and blue Telecaster that Buck Owens gave me and an original ceiling joist from the Ryman auditorium,” he says. “They’re all things I hold dear.” Consider it the “Cottage that Music Built.” As such, it holds a special spot in his process as a musician. “It’s turned out to be quite an inspirational
place. It’s where I allow myself to think, be creative and make mistakes along the way,” says Josh, who encourages music and arts students in his native South Carolina to follow their own muse via his Josh Turner Scholarship Fund. That uncluttered approach paid off in some of Josh’s most clever compositions yet, all highlights on Punching Bag. With a photographer’s eye and novelist’s vocabulary, the Grammy, CMA and ACM Award nominee has developed a Mark Twain-like knack for turning common phrases on their heads. “I’m very observant of what’s going on around me,” Josh says. “I like to take phrases that people use in everyday life and use them to my advantage. You hear people say, ‘They gave me the cold shoulder,’ but they don’t go beyond that. If it’s something that has been said before, I want to say it in a different way.” In “Cold Shoulder” he does just that, using that term to address not just a one-time brush-off, but the progressive dissolution of a romance. Elsewhere, in “For the Love of God,” he transforms the phrase from one of frustration to one of jubilant intent, while the notion of the “right hand man” sidekick is redefined as a loyal husband in “Left Hand Man,” one of two songs Josh wrote with Peach Picker Ben Hayslip. With help from his longtime producer Frank Rogers, Josh has a gift for selecting just the right material from other sources, like the album’s first single “Time Is Love,” written by Mark Nesler, Tony Martin and Tom Shapiro. “When I’m looking for outside songs, I look for songs that I probably wouldn’t write myself,” he says. “‘Time Is Love’ is a song that speaks to the idea of quantity of time versus quality time. Quantity time—getting to know people better and growing relationships—is the more important thing.” It was that sense of fragility that inspired one of the most haunting cut on Punching Bag, “Pallbearer.” The song was partly inspired by the death of one of Josh’s relatives that he looked up to and admired. When Josh learned that his dad had helped carry the casket at the man’s burial, the grieving writer retreated to his cottage and put his feelings to paper. “It’s about how lonesome a person can feel,” he says. “And being a pallbearer at a funeral is pretty lonesome.” Featuring mandolin from Marty Stuart and backing vocals from Iris DeMent, the song adopts the idea as a metaphor for a man jilted by his lover. Written, naturally, in a minor key, the song is one of the most compelling and poignant songs on the album. Punching Bag, pound for pound, may be Josh’s most ambitious and confident record to date. He’s never sounded so focused, so committed—or as he puts it—fearless. “Fearless is being confident, faithful, and having trust in something that is bigger than you, and I think that’s a good description of me,” Josh says. “These songs are like a barometer for where I am in life, both in my age and in my experiences. They tell a story about me that nobody else can. I’m very confident and secure in the kind of music I’m making.” In other words, he’s ready to come out swinging.
Josh Turner Growing up in tiny Two Buttes, Colo. (population: 43), she spent days at a time helping plow and plant the family farm, sharpening her ears with uninterrupted music-listening in the driver’s seat, even as she strengthened her work ethic. Clare’s roots run deep in the heart of Dust Bowl country. Working cattle, hauling water, driving combines, tractors and 18-wheelers from a young age all were a part of everyday life. When your closest neighbor is six miles away, and many hours are spent behind the wheel of a John Deere Tractor on the family farm, a work ethic becomes ingrained in your driving 45 miles to high school each day, Clare achieved All-State basketball and volleyball recognition in high school. After graduating in a class of eight, Clare’s chance to fully pursue her dream came with college. After a brief college stint in Texas, and with a very supportive family, she relocated to Nashville to attend Belmont College. She paid her Clare Dunn way through Belmont University by driving a silage truck for harvest through Oklahoma, Kansas and true representation of all the things that make her Nebraska during every academic break she could. who she is. A farm girl with a vision and sound During this time she also picked up a guitar for the forged from life experiences, combined with the first time determined to master both acoustic and work ethic and passion for her dream of music. electric guitars. She has forged relationships and written with After graduating from Belmont with honors she some of the most highly regarded songwriters signed her first publishing deal as a songwriter and in Nashville and LA, including Hillary Lindsey, hasn’t looked back. Involved with every aspect David Hodges, Troy Verges, busbee, Liz Rose, that goes into the creative process, from writing Angelo, Terry McBride, Brice Long, Will Hoge, her debut single “Get Out” with co-writer and Chris Lindsey, Dylan Altman, Marshall Altman, Clare Dunn A tractor cab might not seem like the ideal place producer Ben West, to playing guitars on the track, and more. Clare recently signed a world-wide for an aspiring artist to nurture her musical dreams, to singing background vocals, Clare’s music is a publishing agreement with BMG/Chrysalis. but it sure did the trick for Clare Dunn.
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2015 Highlights
Photo courtesy Bella Immagine Photography
Photos by Jennifer Alonzo, Anthony Guerrero and Eric R. Flores
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Ski-Hi Stampede committee
Courtesy photo
Charlie Burd, Bob Carlucci, Karla Willschau, Cliff Edwards, David Cooper, Karen Deacon, Dan Burns, Derek Cooper, Brandon Rogers, CE Glunz, Nick Malone, Mark Deacon, Eric Kimberling, Keith Rogers, Jason Tillman, Greg Metz and Matthew Deacon.
It’s time for the 95th annual Ski Hi Stampede rodeo, celebration! We are so excited to kick off the Stampede concert, and the Friday night and Saturday weekend with country singer Josh Turner, rodeos. Sim Balkey and his band will be he is a double-platinum-selling singer, back to play for the dance. Sim’s music has songwriter and disciple of traditional country music and one of the youngest members of the Grand Ole Opry. We are super excited to have him come to the San Luis Valley for our entertainment. Up and coming Clare Dunn is our opening act, a southeast Colorado musician that has signed with Universal Music Group Nashville. Her music is climbing up the charts. The concert will be Thursday night on July 28th. Don’t miss it. Of course the main reason for the weekend celebration is the Ski Hi Stampede Rodeo, Colorado’s oldest pro rodeo! Boyd Polhamus will be back to announce the rodeo, Stace Smith Stock Contractor will be back to provide great livestock, and the main attraction, the cowboys and cowgirls will be back to see what prize money they can pick up. Don’t forget the dance that follows the Karla Willschau, President
filled the dance floor with dancers of all ages. We have reconfigured the bar at the dance and opened it up for a friendly atmosphere. Wright’s Amusement will be back and for the last several years there have been numerous rides added to the carnival with a great new layout. They exceed our expectations every year and there is great entertainment for every age. The Stampede is the largest event in the
San Luis Valley and we all appreciate the fact that sponsors, volunteers and rodeo fans have partnered with us for many years to help us to keep the tradition going. We can’t thank you enough and we can’t do it without you. Our committee is so proud to be able to host this event and hope you can join us. We look forward to seeing you at Stampede! Karla Willschau, President
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95th Annual Ski-Hi Stampede
Courtesy Photo
During the 2015 Stampede rodeo, scholarships were awarded to Nikita Christensen, Courtney Logan and Betty Pack.
Stampede, Adams State provide scholarships
SAN LUIS VALLEY—San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede and Adams State University both know the importance of being involved in our communities and supporting our 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 for a Adams State University Rodeo Team member. The scholarships will be awarded to qualifying applicants during the 2016 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. Applications are available at www.skihistampede.com/ scholarships. The application deadline is May 31.
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 organizations are largely sanctioning bodies that govern the sport at a youth, college and professional level. Pro rodeos are composed of rough stock and timed events. Timed events in a standard pro rodeo include: Tie Down Roping Team Roping Steer Wrestling Barrel Racing Rough stock events include: Bareback Riding Saddle Bronc Riding Bull Riding Other events recognized by competitors as rodeo events include: Breakaway Roping Goat Tying Pole Bending Steer Roping Cowboys who participate in the Rough Stock events are referred to by competitors as “Roughies,” similarly, cowboys that participate in timed events are called “Timies.” Roughies and Timies do not usually compete in the other category. A Timie will normally hang with other Timies and vice versa. Breakaway roping and goat tying for the ladies is a broken up version of the tie down roping for men. The calves used in the tie down roping can be a great challenge for a woman to flank; so they break up the event into two separate ones for the girls.
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Photos by Jennifer Alonzo
Wright’s Amusement’s Carnival will once again return to Monte Vista.
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 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.
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Sim Balkey
Sim Balkey to entertain dancers
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.
Rodeo action!
Photo by Eric R. Flores
Hailee Dihel of Cave Creek, Ariz. finished with a 19.86 in the WPRCA Barrel Races during last year’s Stampede rodeo.
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Steer Wrestling will entertain the crowds
Photo by Eric R. Flores
Center’s Kyle Maez was the only PRCA participant to secure a time in the PRCA Slack portion of the Steer Wrestling last year as he finished in 16.3 seconds.
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Polhamus on the mic again
MONTE V I S TA — 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,
Boyd Polhamus (2000, 2003, 2005). Plus the Professional Rodeo Cowboy’s Association has named him the Announcer of the Year four times (2007, 2008, 2009, and 2012). He was also given the Lane Frost Memorial Award in 2009 during the Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo. It’s good to be Boyd. “I told you!” he said.
Sign says it all...
Photo by Jennifer Alonzo
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A bunch of bull coming to Ski Hi
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
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Ride ‘em cowboy
in Mesquite Championship Rodeo and in 2014, Smith Pro Rodeos has served as the committee or partners with the committee at 26 of the 39 events produced. This one-of-a-kind experience gives them an inside edge on what it takes to help the committees achieve one of the ultimate goals of spectator sports, putting spectators in the seats. In 2014, Smith Pro Rodeos had seven PRCA rodeos nominated in the four “Rodeo of the Year” categories. Smith Pro Rodeos produces rodeos across nine different states from Mississippi through Texas, Colorado, North Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. Each performance is carefully planned in advance, from building equal, exciting pens of livestock, to planning the order they will be presented according to the stock and rider’s attributes. All timed event livestock come directly from the Smith ranch, so there are no mismatched pens or delivery issues. Because of these efforts, turnouts are at a minimum, so each rodeo is a balanced representation of the sport. For more information, go online to www. smithprorodeos.com.
Photo by Anthony Guerrero
The PRCA rodeo will kick off on the night of Friday, July 29 during Ski Hi Stampede, featuring barrel riding, mutton busting, bull riding, a rodeo clown and much more.
Stace Smith
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Honoring a hero
Photo by Anthony Guerrero
Sergeant 1st Class Dwayne Enderle Jr. received the Soldier’s Medal at the 2015 Friday night PRCA rodeo at Ski Hi Stampede. Enderle received the medal for risking his life to help a hurt hiker on Mount Blanca. He endured rain, sleet and hail risking his own life to save the life of another. Enderle not only located the hiker but also treated and evacuated her. The Soldier’s Medal is the highest honor that a service member can receive for valor outside of combat operations. Enderle had the choice of receiving the medal at any event of his choice such as high profile sporting events but instead elected to receive the honor in the San Luis Valley, which is his home.
Smilies and kisses Sargent student Luke Hoffstaetter was one of the lucky fans to score a “selfie” with Kelsea Ballerini following her performance in Monte Vista last summer. Courtesy photo
Find Business in your backyard.
www.shoppelocal.biz
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Top 10 things to do and see in the Valley 1. SAND DUNES Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016 at the Great Sand Dunes National Park, which 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
File photos
the summer months. Reservations can be (PRCA), is scheduled this year for a full made by calling 877-726-RAIL or visiting week, from June 18-26 with most events at www.coloradotrain.com/ the Alamosa fairgrounds. Events kick off this year on Saturday, June 18 with the cattle drive and Round-UP parade at noon in downtown Alamosa: ranch rodeo at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Hundreds of vehicles from America’s June 21; barbecue and mutton bustin at 6 “early” years in its love affair with the p.m. Wednesday, June 22; PRCA rodeos at automobile arrive in Alamosa from all over 7:30 p.m. June 23 and 24 with National Guard the United States for their annual Labor Day Military Appreciation Night during the Friday weekend San Luis Valley Early Iron Festival, PRCA rodeo; rodeo & rails block party at 8 one of the San Luis Valley’s largest events p.m. June 24; demolition derby at 7:30 p.m. featuring more than 500 cars. June 25; and cowboy church followed by rails This year marks the 36th anniversary from concert at 10 a.m. June 28. Buy tickets at The September 2-4. Early Iron welcomes a variety Colorado Welcome Center and Alamosa Big of vehicles including pickups, custom, street R. See www.alamosaroundup.com rods, classics and street machines. See www. earlyironclub.com/
4.EARLYIRONFESTIVAL
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 95th anniversary of the San Luis Valley Ski Hi Stampede planned July 28-31. There will be parades beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. The rodeo brings major entertainment and many of the best cowboys in the country to Monte Vista’s Ski-Hi Arena. Also enjoy dances, fireworks, carnival and chuckwagon dinner. For information call 719852-2055 or see www.skihistampede.com The 2016 Alamosa Round-Up, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association
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 51st season. Plays include “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels;” “Kind of Red;” “The History Room;” The (curious case of
the) Watson Intelligence;” “Boomtown;” “Reading! And Other Superpowers;” and “Private Lives.” Tickets are available at the box office on 124 N. Main Street in Creede, or by calling toll free: 866-658-2540. Or, log on to www.creederep.org
Please see ACTIVITIES on Page 23
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ACTIVITIES
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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
File photos
to herds of deer and elk. Miners built the town of Creede in the spirit of exploration. Outside the town, a driving tour of the area’s mining heritage winds through the rugged geologic formations. Between Creede and Lake City, the highway 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 18th Annual Crestone Music Festival will be held August 12-14 at the Challenger Golf Club in Crestone. The festival is a multigenre, multi-cultural event with camping, arts & crafts, global food, Colorado libations, family activities and a kid’s zone. The fair will also have an Energy Field with booths and demonstrations. Performers this year include T Sisters, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Tumbleweed, The Alcapones, Mama Magnolia, Javier Mosley and Jah Kings. For ticket and other information, go to www.crestfest.org or call 719-256-4533 or 1-855-85MUSIC.
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$118$/
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Double Concert: World Class Rodeos -RVK 7XUQHU &ODUH 'XQQ Friday Evening - 7 p.m.(Family Day) Saturday & Sunday - 2 p.m. Rodeo Announcer - Boyd Polhamus, Multiple Years as PRCA Announcer of the Year Stace Smith, Multiple Years as PRCA Stock Contractor of the Year
Rotary Chuck Wagon Dinner Thursday, July 28th 5:30 p.m.
Stampede Dances
*ULY „ P M *ULY „ P M $ 10 at the door
Parade
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July 29 & 30 10 a.m.
Monte Vista Kids Connection Pancake Breakfast Saturday, July 30th 6 - 9 a.m.
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Christian Cowboys’ Service
General Admission $35 $40
Reserved $40 —
Premium Reserved $45 —
Reserved Seating Tickets only available at Stampede Office and Colorado Sports
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7LFNHW ,QIRUPDWLRQ .................................................................Presale Friday & Saturday, July 29th & 30th Family Day...............................................$30 (Husband, wife and up to 5 children under 18) Box Seats .................................................$16 Reserve Seating - Adult ............................$15 Reserve Seating - Child ............................$8 General Admission - Adult ........................$13 General Admission - Child ........................$8 Arena Seats Reserved ..............................$16 Country Western Dance ............................$10 Sunday, July 31st Senior Citizen Day....................................$5 ((General Admission - 65 & over)
<RXWK 1LJKW at Ski-Hi Stampede Dance
Saturday, July 30
First 100 Youth (under 21 years old) with paid admission will receive a FREE Commemorative Stampede T-Shirt!
Door $35 $18 $17 $10 $15 $8 $18 $10
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You can buy TETWP T-Shirts at the Rodeo Grounds.
$5
)DPLO\ 'D\ DW WKH 5RGHR Friday, July 29 7 p.m.
Local SLV Amateur Events & Professional Slack at 2 p.m.
Wrightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Amusements Carnival
&DQQHG )RRG 'ULYH Bring 2 cans of food items to the Carnival & you can buy an all-day carnival pass for $20
Wednesday, July 27