West River Eagle

Letter to C.R.S.T. Members…


Let’s talk Rodeo! I know its way early, but I like being ahead of schedule and so does my colleague and Rodeo Co-Chairman Tater Ward.

As Co-Chairman of the Rodeo, Tater and I are looking forward to putting on another great show for the people.  Last year we completed a lot of work on the back pens and roping box which was a huge improvement from many years of use with little no repairs.  The stock contractors bring in their top rodeo stock to Cheyenne River and we wanted to do our part in keeping the animals safe and injury free.  We also received donations of barrels last year and provided garbage barrels throughout the rodeo grounds for your use as well as barrels needed for the barrel racing contestants. Some of the lighting was replaced and installed a few new lights. 

Starting last fall, Tater and I have been working on a plan to replace the grandstands, improve the restrooms and vendor facilities.  We have run into a little opposition from our colleagues, but feel it is necessary to replace the grandstands to protect the public and provide handicap accessibility.  The grandstands have been in place for at least 40 years with little maintenance, have had to lease portable toilets and is not set up for more than one vendor.

Last year we had put together a pretty good program for everyone’s enjoyment, and we have been working on this year’s rodeo program.  This year we are asking for you input and are needing pictures of past rodeo greats like Pete Longbrake, Roger Lawrence, Justin Lawrence, Blaine & Judd Norvold, Bill & JR Knight, Romey Gunville, Bud Annis, Sullivan & Burtis White Wolf, Harlan Gunville, Steve Red Fox, Marty Hebb, Lyle Ducheneaux, Buster Lafferty, Ziggy & Veldon Hollowhorn, Kenny Provost, Ike LeBeau and CL Johnson just to name a few and all others that rodeoed back in the day we miss or don’t know.  We want to make a good program and include them in our rodeo program with old pictures, date if possible, so please help us out.

If you have pictures, please contact any three of the following persons: 222-3175 Tater Ward, 365-6755 Jim Pearman, 365-7021 Nicky White Eyes.  All pictures and information will be returned immediately and thanks for your help.

By Jim Pearman

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