Hickok Rodeo committee
thanks supporters, volunteers; look ahead to 2007
Story by DAVE BERGMEIER
Editor, The Abilene Reflector-Chronicle
The president of the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo committee thanked sponsors and
volunteers during the annual appreciation banquet Monday at the Elks Club.
Jerry
Marsteller said there was no way a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association-sanctioned
event could be conducted during the Central Kansas Free Fair without the support
of the community at large and businessmen and women who are so willing to give
of resources and time.
“We appreciate each and every one of you,” he said.
During the festivities
10-year plaques were awarded to Frontier Farm Credit, Pizza Hut, Zey’s
Market, M&M Tire and Auto, and Webb Home Center. Marsteller
also thanked Dodge for its corporate sponsorship, noting it was the 27th year
for the truck company to serve as a major sponsor and he recognized Green Ford
Sales’ representatives in attendance.
Sponsors for Miss Rodeo America and
Miss Rodeo Kansas were recognized as well as buckle series sponsors.
Marsteller thanked the Central Kansas Free Fair Association board and staff and
outgoing fair board president Steve Karl for their support.
A third of the contestants
who competed in Abilene also competed at the recent National Finals Rodeo in
Las Vegas, he said, which was 41 finalists.
The Aug. 1-4 rodeo will be the 62nd
annual event, Marsteller said. The
annual budget is $141,815 with a projected revenue of about $149,500.
“If
it all works out we’ll have a profit of $8,700,” he
said.
A new clown will be featured this year –– Jeff “Slim” Garner
of Fredonia.
He also thanked Beverly Wilcoxon, rural Abilene, who donated a quilt
that was included in the annual belt buckle auction. Her efforts were recognized
with a standing ovation by the crowd.
“Because of all of you the rodeo has
been the successful entertainment that it has been for many years,” Marsteller
said. “It is only possible
through your help. Thank you to all the committee members, their wives and family.”
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