Sisters Rodeo earns high marks

In a year of major construction and grounds improvements, Sisters Rodeo Association received high scores from a professional rodeo judge, one of the officials who grades the rodeo for personnel, stock, safety, organization and management.

Steve Knowles, on his first assignment to Sisters Rodeo, was effusive in his praise of the rodeo:

"The livestock was of the finest quality. Glenn Miller and John Leavitt provided ...highly qualified personnel that were extremely helpful and eager to assist. New chutes were installed for the rough stock and timed events, making the facility a world-class venue."

The PRCA judge was generous in his thanks for the hospitality of Sisters Rodeo, adding, "I look forward to returning in the future."

Every PRCA rodeo is rated by the judges at that location. Sisters has consistently received the highest ratings.

Sisters Rodeo Association maintained its charitable donations to local and statewide schools, organizations and other non-profit fundraisers in ticket, financial and in-kind donations. Hundreds of tickets were also donated to local youth programs so children would have the opportunity to experience the rodeo.

Oregon High School Rodeo, PeeWee Rodeo and Columbia River Rodeo Circuit Finals all received donations of financial support along with rodeo crisis funds.

At the annual Rodeo Appreciation Party, a total of $3,100 was raised, with rodeo matching auction funds and an anonymous donation, to assist with expenses for two women injured in separate accidents at the rodeo parade and during the rodeo.

Youth and sports programs in the area also raised money with volunteer efforts at the rodeo, including a 4-H group that sweeps through the grounds after every performance to clean up before the next show. Other groups work as concessions volunteers at the rodeo, receiving a percentage of the income from their concessions.

The rodeo has donated $7,500 in scholarships to graduating Sisters High School seniors, and continues its support of Sisters Park & Recreation District.

The rodeo financial support totals nearly $40,000 in donations, fundraisers and services to these outside organizations.

"It is great that we generate enough income, with the support of our fans and local sponsors, to be able to help these other organizations and individuals," said Chris Schaad, rodeo committee member. "We are members of this community and are really grateful that we can share our success."