PRESIDENT CORNER T his month’s column comes with much gratitude for a number of people in the industry. July was definitely an interesting month that had a lot of things going on all at once.
Inductions in Colorado Springs. What a great class of inductees and it was a true honor for me to be there to celebrate their accomplishments. The WPRA inducted Sherry (Combs) Johnson and Fay Ann Horton Leach in the class of 2023. It was great to have both of these ladies there to celebrate this milestone. Unfortunately, it was the last big event on earth for Sherry Johnson as she passed away from her battle with COPD on August 2. What a legacy she left on the WPRA and may she now rest in peace. Two days after Sherry passed away, we got word that longtime friend of the WPRA John Farris had passed away at the age of 95. John and his beloved wife, Mildred, who passed away in 2013 served the rodeo community for 51 years. In 2016 they became the first husband and wife to enter the ProRodeo Hall of Fame together in the notable category. John worked every National Finals Rodeo from 1967-2011 in some capacity or the other with the most notable being the timed event chute boss who always oversaw the staking of the barrel pattern. While record temperatures have been being set from coast to coast this year, the level of competition you ladies have brought week in and week out to rodeos across the country has been just as hot. I am excited to see how these next two months play out and I know the fans are excited to watch it as well. Keep up the great work and be safe in your travels.
First, I would like to thank our entire membership for their patience during the very untimely shutdown of ProCom. What a trying time it was for everyone in the industry but appreciate your professionalism with making the best of a rough situation. We are all cautiously optimistic the worst is behind us on that unfortunate situation. Second, I would like to thank everyone for the team effort that was on display this year at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo in regards to the ground situation. We could see that things were heading in the wrong direction and were appreciative of Tom Hirsig and Randy Spraggins for allowing us to bring the team together to get things right. We were fortunate due to the format to have this opportunity but believe the results of the short round in Cheyenne spoke volumes for the importance of good safe ground. Not only is it better for the athletes but if everyone can perform to the best of their ability the fans get treated to a first-class show. I had the opportunity to visit Salt Lake City for the progressive round, Cheyenne and Salinas for some general membership meetings. I appreciate those that took the time to attend one of these meetings and share your thoughts and questions and for allowing us to address your concerns as well as provide additional input for additional board discussions. I also had the pleasure to attend the 2023 ProRodeo Hall of Fame
6 WPRA NEWS AUGUST 2023
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