Spur'N Conversations

I had this long drawn out soapbox typed up and opped to be a bit more professional.

First take a moment to go over and review this article posted on supervegan.com

What did you think? Pretty amazing stuff. Well guess what? If we ignore it they won't go away. In fact they have been able to get a few large rodeo supporters to cave in and discontinue simply to make these ill-informed, media monger, tree hugging ~Leaf eaters (Save a Tree~ Eat a Leaf? I'm confused) go away!

For some of you, you might not be aware that there is an effort to eliminate rodeo and everything related to animal captivity. They are attacking through state and local governments attempting to bar any form of rodeo competitions from being held within city limits.

I for one do not have all the answers, however clearly have my concerns and feel we need to collectively embrace our traditions and put up a fight like none other and run these folks right out of Dodge!

I'm interested in hearing from you what you think our industry needs to do to address this type of misleading press. Should we encourage the major associations to adopt a central rodeo support organization such as www.FriendsofRodeo.com ? It's a tough one, however would greatly appreciate your help with suggestions.

I know I'm thrilled to see the US Army, Cingular, B & W Hitches, Enterprise Rent A Car, Yamaha, Johnsonville Brats and other "non-traditional" companies become huge supporters of our industry. Let's let them know how much their support means!

Your thougts?

Wow, this one crept up on us! I can't believe Christmas is in a couple weeks. I don't know about you but this year absolutely flew by. We made so many great changes this year that I really can not wait for next year.

So what is on everyone's Christmas list? Sure looks like a bunch of you must have been good, because business has been great...so hopefully you'll be one of the lucky ones getting some new gear.

What are your plan's for 2007? We'd really like to hear from you regardless what level your riding at.

• Time to go Pro?
• Stepping up?
• Taking a break?
• Do you see yourself traveling more in 2007?
• Are more events being scheduled closer to home that you'll be able to compete at?
• Do you see a significant increase in prize money available at your level of competition?

I've heard rumbling about several big, big money deals that allow almost anyone a chance to take a monster check.

Look forward to hearing from you guys!

See you down the road! (Des Moines, Iowa this weekend with Heartland Rodeo Company at the State Fairgrounds ~ Stop by and see us)