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Throwback Article by our very own Casey Beard

Sharing our Blessings

The Pendleton Round-Up Board of Directors is donating the cash award for winning the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year to Farmers Ending Hunger. “We are pleased to make this contribution on behalf of the Pendleton community to such a worthy local charity. The $1,250 for being named Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year, coupled with the $15,000 raised by Farmers Ending Hunger during the 2017 Round-Up and Happy Canyon, will help reduce hunger during this long, cold winter season,” said Round-Up President Dave O’Neil.

The Round-Up has enjoyed a long association with the Farmers Ending Hunger organization. Founded by Hermiston entrepreneur Fred Ziari, past Round-Up Directors Boby Levy and Ty Hansell were guiding forces in the formation of Farmers Ending Hunger, Levy serving as an original FEH board member. Farmers Ending Hunger is unique in that farmers in Umatilla and Morrow agree to purposefully plant a set amount of their farm’s acreage to feed the hungry. Adding to the program’s success, food processing and transportation companies have agreed to package the foods and deliver them to the hungry via the Oregon Food Bank.

In 2017, the Round-Up and Happy Canyon formalized their relationship with Farmers Ending Hunger. Kenzie Hansell, a Happy Canyon Director and Farmers Ending Hunger Director, and son of Ty Hansell, captured the importance of the partnership when he observed, “The Round-Up and Happy Canyon began as a celebration the bountiful harvests of Umatilla and Morrow County ranchers and farmers. Partnering with Farmers Ending Hunger allows us to build on our commitment to better our community and state.” To symbolize the commitment of the two organizations, Round-Up and Happy Canyon adopted thirty acres as part of the Farmers Ending Hunger Adopt an Acre program with the help of sponsors like River Point Farms and Northwest Farm Credit Services. Through the efforts of Farmers Ending Hunger and its friends; over five million pounds of food, nearly 80% of which was raised in Umatilla and Morrow Counties, have been donated to feed hungry Oregonians this year.

The Round-Up, Happy Canyon and Farmers Ending Hunger are currently planning to expand Farmers Ending Hunger activities at the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon on September 12^th through 15^th, 2018. If you would like to become involved with Farmers Ending Hunger or learn more about their activities, please contact John Burt at (503) 623-3188 or visit their web site at www.farmersendinghunger.com.

LARGE OUTDOOR RODEO COMMITTEE OF THE YEAR

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The Pendleton Round-Up Association was named the LARGE OUTDOOR RODEO COMMITTEE OF THE YEAR by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association in Las Vegas, Nevada, at its annual awards banquet Wednesday evening December 06, 2017. This prestigious award is voted on by members of the PRCA which is made up of cowboy contestants and fellow rodeo committees. "It is wonderful to be acknowledged by your peers for excellence," said Round-up publicity director Randy Thomas. "However, the Round-Up story is one of family and friends who give extravagantly to make our community a better place."

The Pendleton Round-Up has won this award previously in 2003 and again on it's centennial year in 2010. However, the 2017 title indicates a trend as it crowns the third consecutive year it has been has been honored with this title (2015, 2016 and 2017). "We have such dedicated volunteers, staff and loyal supporters," said Round-Up President Dave O'Neill. "We are very proud to bring this award home to our community."

New innovations help the historic Pendleton Round-Up thrive after 107 years. The 1910 room is a track-side restaurant pairing celebrity chef Max Germano with award winning Pendleton High School Culinary Arts students, to provide a unique culinary experience for fans during the rodeo. Two new outdoor watering holes allow patrons to toast each other with Pendleton Whisky as they watch contestants test their skills on the legendary grass arena. Ticket revenue, retail sales and beverages all set records this year as fans made the journey into authentic western hospitality from across the United States and several foreign countries to see real cowboys and Indians assembled on a stage unlike any other. The Round-up also hosts a large Native American tipi village, large non-motorized parade, and bucks from colorful wooden bucking chutes.

Pendleton Round-Up contract service providers also faired well at the annual PRCA Banquet. Gary Rempel won Pickup Man of the Year; Justin Rumford was announced as Clown of the Year; Bobby Kerr was selected as Dress Act of the Year, and Dusty Tuckness was named Bullfighter of the Year. Pendleton announcer Wayne Brooks and rodeo secretary Haley Bridwell were each nominated in their respective categories.

"We have developed great partners, within a great community, and serve a sport of gracious people along side peers who are doing the same for their communities," reflected Round-Up Vice President Rob Collins."

2018 Pendleton Round-Up Royalty Proclaimed

PENDLETON, ORE. – The Pendleton Round-Up 2018 Queen and Court are introduced.

Pendleton Round-Up Queen Betsy West and four princesses were introduced at a breakfast Saturday morning, hosted at the home of Dr. Doug Corey DVM, outside of Athena, Oregon. They will reign throughout 2018 and over the 108^th annual Pendleton Round-Up.

Queen Betsy West is the twenty-one year old daughter of Clay and Mary West of Athena, Oregon. She rides into her reign freshly from court duties last year as a princess on the Pendleton Round-Up Court saying, “I discovered a new sense of pride in my community and who it is. Round-Up is a celebration of where we came from and who we are.” West is currently seeking a health sciences major at the College of Idaho with intent to pursue nursing with double minors in Spanish and Sociology and Human Services. Her research on bacteria at the university was selected for further DNA sequencing at the National Laboratories. The college awarded Betsy the Howard Berger Travel Scholarship to document history at ancient Chinese temples. The West family breeds and trains registered AQHA horses and Betsy cannot remember her first ride, having started on the front of her parent’s saddle. She is an accomplished horse woman with many awards, “After a long weekend away from home, going out to the barn and thanking my horses for a great parade, or getting on my filly was my favorite way to wind down and relax,” recalled West. “I receive so much clarity and joy from being horseback.” Betsy’s family is steeped in Round-Up history. Her sister (2014), mother (1989), and great grandmother (1934 & 1935) each rode as Round-Up princesses, and her father was a competitor.

Princess Josilyn Fullerton of Dayton, Washington is the eighteen year old daughter of Greg and Nikki Fullerton. Josilyn graduated last spring from Dayton High School where she was honored with an All-State Selection in Volleyball, Most Inspirational in Basketball, FFA Chapter President with many top district and state accomplishments, and a member of National Honor Society. She also participated in 4-H, Young Life, and many volunteer community events. Fullerton now attends Walla Walla Community College studying Agriculture Business and Animal Science. “I have been horseback since I was six years old,” said Josilyn. She has carried pennants for the Pendleton Round-up, pushed calves in the arena, and helped with the Children’s Rodeo. In 2016 she was Queen of the Walla Walla Frontier Days Rodeo, a Big 4 Rodeos partner with the Pendleton Round-Up. As an accomplished public speaker, Josilyn states, “I was taught you have to work hard for what you want in life, nothing in life will just be handed to you. Riding on the Round-Up court requires its participants to have true grit and determination along with excellent horsemanship skills.”

Princess Elizabeth Herbes is the nineteen year old daughter of Mike and Janet Herbes of Union, Oregon. She is a storied graduate of Union High School, having achieved OSAA First Team All- State selections for both Cross Country and Track and Field, competing on a relay team at the IAAF National Indoor World Championship Meet. She also took leadership roles in FFA, working towards and earning the American Degree. She was a member of the FBLA, National Honor Society and National Society for High School Scholars. Elizabeth started her Round-Up volunteer service at age six carrying pennants and helping her mother usher, both services she has continued to present. She also participates in the Happy Canyon Pageant and helps at the VFW Cowboy Breakfast. This tireless princess said, “Volunteering for the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon is something I enjoy doing, and plan to do for as long as I can; because without volunteers I know that this wonderful rodeo would not be possible, and the rodeo tradition is one we must keep going.” Herbes attends Eastern Oregon University studying Physical Therapy and is a University Scholar Athlete on the EOU Track and Field Team. Elizabeth’s sister Mary Kate was a 2013 Round-Up princess, and her father Mike is a past Happy Canyon Volunteer of the Year. Elizabeth rides western style, but also English, sidesaddle and bareback, however, she says, “The opportunity to be on the 2018 Pendleton Round-Up Court will be the best riding experience yet.”

Princess Kaelyn Lindsay is the nineteen year old daughter of Barney and Kimberly Lindsay of Lexington, Oregon. She graduated from Heppner High School in 2016 where she was team captain her senior year in volleyball, basketball, and track. She also excelled in 4-H, Drama, FFA, and was recognized as the FBLA State Champion in Banking and Financial Systems. When asked to describe the characteristics she has seen of Pendleton Round Up Court members, Kaelyn responded, “Kind, poise and genuine are three words that come to mind when I think about the Pendleton Round-Up Court. They are role models for many young girls.” Kaelyn grew up on her family’s ranch, gathering and working cows. She was a frequent competitor in various local rodeos. She now attends Blue Mountain Community College pursuing a degree in nursing, where she made this winter’s Dean’s List. In a letter of support, Blake Knowles, three-time Steer Wrestling qualifier to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo writes, “Kaelyn’s kindness is a standout characteristic. She has a knack for lifting others up and creating a positive environment. When I think of the Pendleton Round-Up Court, I think of hardworking, talented cowgirls who have a way of bringing the Wild West to modern life with impeccable grace and integrity in all aspects of life. I could not think of a better young lady to represent the Pendleton Round-Up.”

Princess Charla Simons is the nineteen year old daughter of Tim and Janet Simons of Pendleton, Oregon. She is a 2016 graduate of Pendleton High School where she excelled in multiple and varied disciplines. Charla was Rhythmic Mode Dance Team Captain her junior and senior years, and was named to the All-State Team (dance). She also participated in PHS Track and Field, Swing Choir, A capella Choir, Leadership and was presented a PHS Citizenship Cup Award. Simons has danced in the Happy Canyon Pageant for five years, participated in Tough Enough to Wear Pink campaigns, carried Round-Up pennants and warmed-up horses for the 2017 Round-Up court. Charla’s has been riding since age 8 and has been tutored by Toni Minthorn. Her family members are long time volunteers for Happy Canyon, Round-Up and the Cowboy Mounted Band. Charla is a sophomore at Oregon State University working on a major in Human Development and Family Services with Pre-Nursing pre-requisites, where she was on the Fall 2016 Honor Roll and Spring 2017 4.0 Honor Roll. As a freshman, Charla also danced on the OSU Dance and Cheer Team. “I have found there is nothing I love more than my hometown and the week of Round-Up, Charla stated. “To be able to proudly represent it, is something that I am truly passionate for.”

In 1910 the first rodeo queen anywhere was crowned in Pendleton, Oregon at the first Round-Up when Bertha Anger received the title by virtue of being the best ticket seller. The queen and court have always played a key role in promoting the Round-Up throughout the Great Northwest and beyond with well over two hundred annual scheduled appearances. Their distinctive hand crafted leather wardrobe often set them apart from other rodeo courts.

The Pendleton Round-Up is the largest four-day rodeo in America with the PRCA’s fifth richest contestant prize money purse. Its competitive events are contested on a pristine grass arena, with historic wooden bucking chutes and one of a kind run-in system for timed events; all of which are historic presentations which cannot be seen anywhere else in the PRCA. The Pendleton Round-Up is the reigning PRCA Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year (2003, 2010, 2015, 2016) and the 2015 PRCA Remuda award winner for having the most consistent pen of bucking stock. One thousand volunteers work together to produce this annual event, which will celebrate its 108th year September 12^th – 15^th, 2018.

Let ‘er Buck!

Grand Marshal 2017

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PENDLETON ROUND-UP

GRAND MARSHAL 2017

The Pendleton Round-Up Association is proud to announce Pendleton rancher Mike Thorne as Grand Marshal for the 107^th Westward Ho! Parade to be held September 15, 2017.

Thorne is a multi-generational Pendletonian who has had the opportunity to pursue a wide variety of business and political endeavors. After graduating from Washington State University he married his wife Jill and returned to the family farm North of Pendleton to raise their two children Katy and Todd.

In 1972 Mike was elected to the Oregon State Senate and served for 18 years. Although serving with distinction in larger matters, he also assisted his local district by championing the Happy Canyon Gaming Act of 1972, after the county DA declared the previous practice unlawful, and gained approval of a specific liquor license for the Portland Civic Stadium and the Pendleton Round-Up.

After the legislature Thorne was hired as the Executive Director of the Port of Portland. While building the Ports reputation and expanding its reach, Mike entertained countless guests during the Round-Up from the region and internationally.

Mike’s Round-Up passion was planted early in his life. As a boy he stepped in the footprints of both his father Glenn and grandfather Roy. After college he volunteered to help the Westward Ho! Parade, under director Jack Howard. He also worked Arena Events for director Jim Rosenberg. During his legislative service he simultaneously provided “horse duty” while supporting his daughter Katy throughout her reigns as both Round-Up Princess and Queen.

Mike was elected to the Pendleton Round-Up Board of Directors in 2006 and served directorships in Publicity, Concessions and Sponsors. From 2008 – 2010 he chaired the Long Range Planning Committee and led the construction of the Centennial West Grandstand, refurbishing the arena track and new livestock pens. He also co-chaired the Centennial Plaza project, which created the beautiful Court Street plaza, decorative fencing and bucking horse bronze. These projects came in on time and under budget to welcome a record number of centennial guests.

Mike’s volunteer service continued after his retirement from the official board. He and his wife Jill promote Pendleton at the Rodeo Way during the Wrangler National Finals in Las Vegas each December. Together the procured the 1913 Roy Raley saddle and have it displayed at the Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame. Currently Mike is working on coordinating activities to help Blue Mountain Community College establish an agricultural education facility on the Round-Up grounds and build a home for the BMCC Rodeo Team.

Thorne said, “Outside of my family, this is the most prestigious recognition I have ever received. Although I have been fortunate to be a part of many endeavors, to be acknowledged by your home town is the most gratifying acceptance one could receive.”

Pendleton Round-Up Bucks Hunger

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PENDLETON ROUND-UP BUCKS HUNGER IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

PENDLETON, ORE. (August 31, 2017) - Pendleton Round-Up, the most iconic rodeo in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), in collaboration with the Farmers Ending Hunger organization, is proud to introduce Farmers Ending Hunger Day on Wednesday, September 13, 2017 at the annual Pendleton Round-Up Rodeo. The Wednesday performance at the 2017 Round-Up and Happy Canyon Night Pageant will be dedicated to bringing awareness in the fight against hunger in the state of Oregon and surrounding region.

Farmers Ending Hunger works with local farmers to produce food for those who need it most. The Pendleton Round-Up has adopted twenty acres of farmland in their fight against hunger. The money raised by adopting acres is used for transportation, food processing and packaging costs. What’s more, the Pendleton Round-Up, with the assistance of River Point Farms, will match up to $5,000 donated by attendees and fans at this year’s Round-Up. There will also be a dedicated social media campaign to support this initiative; follow the Pendleton Round-Up on Facebook for more.

“The issue of hunger is one that hits close to home for the Pendleton Round-Up and members of our community,” said Bill Levy, president, Pendleton Round-Up. “Farmers Ending Hunger is fighting back against this growing issue in our state, and we are proud to support and invest in this great cause to better the City of Pendleton, surrounding region and great state of Oregon.”

Oregon holds one of the highest rates of hunger in the United States, and continues to rank in the top five states for food insecurity among children. Partnering with Farmers Ending Hunger, the Pendleton Round-Up will work closely with local farmers to donate food to hungry Oregonians. Last year, the Farmers Ending Hunger organization donated over 6 million pounds of food to the Oregon Food Bank; 85% of which comes from local Umatilla and Morrow counties. Donated food is distributed through the Oregon Food Bank’s extensive networks across the state.

Farmers Ending Hunger Day at the 2017 Pendleton Round-Up will feature interactive exhibits, experts onsite to discuss solutions to the food crisis in Oregon and opportunities for rodeo attendees to help contribute to fighting hunger through donations and action. Tickets for the Wednesday, September 13 rodeo performance start at $15; packages are still available for families. To order tickets for the 2017 Pendleton Round-Up visit http://www.pendletonroundup.com/or call (541) 276- 2553.

To learn more about Farmers Ending Hunger, or to donate, visit www.farmersendinghunger.com.

About Pendleton Round-Up

The Pendleton Round-Up has long been heralded as the world’s most iconic rodeo, and is held in Pendleton, Oregon, the second full week in September each year. Established in 1910 and inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2008, the rodeo began as a frontier exhibition of picturesque pastimes, Indian and military pageantry, cowboy racing and bronco busting. Rich in history and heritage, today the Pendleton Round-Up preserves the cowboy and western spirit and honors the integral Native American history of the Pacific Northwest. A Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctioned event, and voted PRCA ‘Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year’ in 2003, 2010, 2015 and 2016, the annual event draws thousands of patrons each year and hosts rodeo competitions including bareback riding, tie-down roping, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, team roping, bull riding and steer roping. In addition to PRCA sanctioned events, edge-of-your-seat exhibitions include the Indian Relay Racing, the “Green Mile,” longest women’s professional barrel racing pattern, wild cow milking and unique Native American dancing.

For more information, a schedule of 2017 events and to purchase tickets and gear visit pendletonroundup.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

"Boots and Saddles" The Cavalry Returns

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August 2017

The Pendleton Round-Up began 107 years ago as, “a frontier exhibition of picturesque pastimes, Indian and military pageantry, cowboy racing and bronco busting”. This year, the legendary Round-Up returns to its roots. The Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon will pay special tribute to military pageantry in marking the 100^th Anniversary of America’s entry into World War I. The anniversary has special meaning for the Round-Up and Happy Canyon, who will honor the men of Cavalry Troop D, Oregon Cavalry. Made up of Round-Up contestants and local cowboys, Troop D trained at the Round-Up Grounds and Happy Canyon. Commemorating Troop D, and all of the heroic men and women serving their country today, the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Night Show are proud to announce that the thunder of the charge and call of the bugle will again stir the echoes of memory in the Round-Up grounds this year.

The 1^st Infantry Division’s Commanding General’s Own Mounted Color Guard will again bring the call of boots and saddles and the refrain of “Gary Owen” to the Round-Up and Happy Canyon grounds. Formed from troops assigned to Ft. Riley, Kansas, the former home of the US Army Cavalry School, the soldiers of the color guard performs mounted drills, exhibitions of cavalry skills and provide interpretive displays of life as a cavalry trooper on the frontier. Additionally, the Color Guard includes an 1871 covered escort wagon, used to resupply troops on western frontier battlefields.

Appropriately, the 1^st Infantry Division is also celebrating its 100^th Anniversary in 2017. Formed to fight in World War I, the “Big Red One” is the longest serving, and perhaps the most storied, division in the Army. Its battle honors include World War I, World War 2, Viet Nam, Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan where is men and women have fought with great distinction.

The story of Troop D has a special poignancy for Round-Up and Happy Canyon fans. Moved by patriotic fervor, local cowboys, led by All Around and Saddle Bronc Champion Lee Caldwell and Bull Dogging Champion Dell Blancett, raised a volunteer troop of cavalry. Cowboys from the surrounding area flocked to Pendleton to join the unit, including twenty-five men from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Sworn in at Happy Canyon, the new soldiers conducted their training on the Round-Up grounds. One of the troop’s first acts to unanimously elect Lee Caldwell as their captain.

Called up for federal service, the men of Troop D reported to Camp Lewis, Washington for further training before deployment to Europe. The entire town of Pendleton turned out to joyously see the boys of Troop D off at the train station, little appreciating the horrors they would face. In a special ceremony for the Confederated tribal members of the unit, each was given a Pendleton Woolen Mills blanket.

Arriving in France, the cowboys from the great Northwest were bitterly disappoint to learn that they would no longer be cavalrymen galloping across the battlefield. Converted to an artillery unit, the men kept their Round-Up connection alive; painting “Let’er Buck” on their cannons. The troops were soon in the thick of some of the bitterest fighting in the war and fought with great distinction; never deserting their guns even under heavy fire. A war correspondent covering the fighting reported that when troops protecting their guns began to fall back reported, “The officers and men of the 148^th Field Artillery were from Pendleton and other parts of Oregon, Wyoming, Utah and Colorado. Does a combination like that ever say die? This is what they did: Gunners, ammunition men, orderlies and everyone else handy got hold of rifles, deployed themselves as doughboys, took up positions some distance in front of their guns and poured in fire on the Germans that made them think the infantry was still holding the line… That’s the sort of people Pendleton sent into this war.”

Ironically, Dell Blancett, who along with Lee Caldwell had spearheaded raising Troop D, failed his physical due to a shoulder injury sustained bull dogging. Despite the protects of his wife, early Round-Up star Bertha Blancett, Dell headed to Calgary, Canada, where he heard that additional troops were being raised for Lord Strathcona’s Horse, a Canadian cavalry regiment. After a brief training period, Blancett joined the regiment in France.

In a desperate attempt to knock the allies out of the war before newly arriving American troops could change the tide, the Germans launched an offensive. Breaking through the allied lines, German troops were advancing rapidly. The only force available to block the advance was Lord Strathcona’s Horse. In a gallant charge of sabers against machine guns, the Canadians, outnumbered three to one, turned back the advancing German’s; changing the course of the war. The victory at Moreuil Wood came at a heavy price – seventy percent of the Canadians were killed or wounded in the desperate fighting. Among the casualties of history’s last great cavalry charge was Dell Blancett. When reinforcements arrived to relieve the valiant men of Lord Strathcona’s Horse, they found a mortally wounded Private Blancett. Grimacing in pain, his last words were, “Those German bullets sure hit hard”.

Other early stars of the Pendleton Round-Up also served in the Great War. Saddle bronc rider George Fletcher, banned from joining Company B because he was black, was drafted into an all-black unit. Yakima Canutt, winner of the 1917 Saddle Bronc Riding and All Around titles, served in the US Navy; returning to the 1918 Round-Up to compete in his sailor’s uniform.

With the Armistice in November, 1918, the surviving men of Company B returned to a hero’s welcome in Pendleton. Special arrangements were made to route the training carrying the soldiers to Ft. Lewis, Washington, for demobilization through Pendleton. The East Oregonian reported, “Straight from the Rhine to the Umatilla they came with “Let’er Buck and “Pendleton” chalked on the train in letters a foot high. Those cowboys, who as members of Troop D jumped into the saddle to lasso the biggest outlaw of all, came back last night and were laughed over and cried over as “Pendleton’s own.” They had fought bravely and contributed to the allied victory.

The 1919 Happy Canyon held a special performance to honor Pendleton’s war heroes. Members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservations were given special permission to perform a victory scalp dance, which had been banned for a generation, at Happy Canyon. The Happy Canyon performance ended with a glorious patriotic celebration that brought the crowd to its feet.

Gradually, the men returned to their lives; very different than the excited boys who flocked to the colors on the Round-Up and Happy Canyon grounds in the spring of 1917. For some, their lives were changed forever. Devastated by the loss of her husband, Bertha Blancett never entered another rodeo nor remarried. Plagued by war wounds and the effects of being gassed, Lee Caldwell was unable to resume his rodeo career; his colorful days as a dashing bronc rider sacrificed on the battlefields of France.

In the spirit of Lee Caldwell and Dell Blancett, to support our courageous veterans of today the Pendleton Round-Up will be raffling off a special, limited edition Pendleton Woolen Mills blanket created for Pendleton’s Bravo Company, 168^th Aviation after their tour of duty flying combat missions in Iraq. All money raised from the raffle will be donated to the Wrangler Nationals Patriots Day fund to support veterans and their families.

To learn more about the 1^st Infantry Division’s Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard, the history of the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon, Wrangler National Patriots Day and special offers for military personnel, please visit our websites at pendletonroundup.com or happycanyon.com. or call Publicity Directors Randy Thomas (541) 379-6776 or Kenzie Hansell (541) 561-4098. For tickets call (541) 612-3496.

BUCKEYE BLAKE AS 2017 POSTER ARTIST

Available Monday, June 26

PENDLETON ROUND-UP ANNOUNCES BUCKEYE BLAKE AS 2017 POSTER ARTIST

PENDLETON, ORE. (June 26, 2017) - Pendleton Round-Up, the most iconic rodeo in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), is pleased to announce the selection of acclaimed contemporary western artist, Buckeye Blake, as the rodeo’s 2017 poster artist. An important figure in the western art community, Buckeye is renowned for his ability to authentically combine traditional and contemporary styles in his dramatic, colorful paintings of western themes.

“When selecting the poster artist each year, we look for an artist with a proven history of authentically embodying the spirt of western heritage in their work. Buckeye Blake is the perfect match, capturing the color, drama, history, celebration and overall essence of the Pendleton Round-Up,” said Bill Levy, president, Pendleton Round-Up. “Buckeye’s poster and art will resonate well with our loyal rodeo and western heritage audience, offering them a lasting piece of Pendleton Round-Up legacy.”

Buckeye Blake’s work is featured in many important collections, including the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, the Denver Art Museum, the 3M Museum, the Harmsen Collection and the C.M. Russell Museum. He has been the subject of numerous retrospectives, and has been featured in countless magazine articles and publications including the book, Buckeye Blake: Art on the Western Front.

“As a painter, capturing the bright colors, rich history, vivid action, and legendary drama of the Pendleton Round-Up is a unique opportunity,” said Buckeye Blake. “I’m honored to create a painting that captures the ‘Let’er Buck’ spirit of the world-famous Pendleton Round-Up.”

As a child Buckeye Blake moved around the west, following his father on the rodeo circuit and working on ranches; a stop in Buckeye, Arizona is the origin of his nickname. Buckeye’s experience as a working cowboy was tempered by the influence of his mother, an artist who created murals and painted portraits to supplement the family income. Following a stint as a scene painter in Hollywood, Buckeye returned to his love of showing cutting horses and creating fine art; setting up a studio in Augusta, Montana, for many years before relocating to Weatherford, Texas.

Posters will be available for purchase Monday June 26^th at the Pendleton Round-Up & Happy Canyon Gift Store, 1114 SW Court Ave, Pendleton, OR 97801, and online at http://www.leterbuck.com/. To learn more about Buckeye Blake, the 2017 Pendleton Round-Up poster and to order tickets for the 2017 Pendleton Round-Up visit www.pendletonroundup.com or call (541) 276- 2553.

About Pendleton Round-Up

For more information, a schedule of 2017 events and to purchase tickets and gear visit pendletonroundup.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Kick-Off Concert!

Gary Allan with guest Tyler Rich

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Gary Allan set to take the Happy Canyon stage Sept. 9

PENDLETON, Ore. – Country music superstar Gary Allan will kick off the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon week when he takes the stage in the Happy Canyon Arena on Sept. 9. Tickets go on sale Monday, May 1.

Allan is known for hit No. 1 singles “Man to Man,” “Nothing On But the Radio,” “Watching Airplanes,” and “Tough Little Boys.” He mixes honky-tonk bravado with grainy isolation across his eight studio albums, seven of which reached gold status and three of them were certified platinum.

His latest album – “Set You Free” – features the hit single “Every Storm Runs Out of Rain.” While Allan has always had a gritty, gravelly edge to his performances, he pushes himself on “Set You Free,” singing with more command, authority and pliability than he has in years. The album, sequenced with a storyline in which a man breaks the restraints of a failed relationship and conquers the loneliness of its aftermath, is the result of Allan’s own journey as a man and as an artist.

Happy Canyon President Corey Neistadt said he’s excited to bring Allan to Pendleton and for fans to have an opportunity to see the star in the Happy Canyon Arena.

“Having Gary Allan hit the stage is a fantastic way to kick off Round-Up week,” Neistadt said. “We know he’ll really enjoy the intimate setting of the Happy Canyon Arena that brings stars so close to their fans.”

Tyler Rich is a Country Singer/Songwriter from a small Northern California farming community called Yuba City, and is currently based in Nashville, TN. He found his love for country music after his cousin took him to see George Strait at the age of 8. From George, to Garth, to Brooks & Dunn, Tyler immersed himself into the music. Three months before his 14th birthday, his Grandparents surprised him with a guitar for Christmas, and he never stopped playing. After countless hours working on his craft, and spending years on the road touring across the country with multiple bands in his early twenties, Tyler decided it was time to pursue his career as a solo artist. In the past several months, Tyler has performed along side some of the industries top artists including Sam Hunt, Brett Eldredge, Cole Swindell, Dan + Shay, Jon Pardi, Canaan Smith, Maddie & Tae, and he spent 4 months on the road opening the 2015-16 "Hell of a Night" tour with Dustin Lynch and Chris Lane.

Tickets go on sale Monday, May 1, at 9 a.m. and range in price from $40 to $130. To reserve tickets, call 800-45-RODEO (select option 1 for tickets) or visit www.pendletonroundup.com.

2016 PRCA Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year

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LAS VEGAS – The Pendleton Round-Up won the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association’s (PRCA) 2016 Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year Award. Presented during the PRCA’s annual awards banquet at Las Vegas, it marked the second consecutive year the Pendleton Round-Up has been honored with this prestigious award. “It is humbling to receive this acknowledgment from our peers,” said Round-Up President Bill Levy, “its Pendleton volunteers who have earned this award and we are very happy to receive it on their behalf.”

The Pendleton Round-Up began in 1910; establishing its reputation for colorful and unscripted rodeo action which generated an exciting depiction of western lifestyle. Over its 107 year history, the Round-Up has diligently built upon its authentic roots to produce an award winning, world class show.

Inspired by winning the Large Outdoor Rodeo of Year in 2015, the Pendleton Round-Up Board of Directors challenged themselves to make the 2016 edition of the Round-Up even better. Further refinements to the Livestock selection program delivered top animal athletes from the herds of eight separate livestock contractors, which provided a consistent pen of bucking stock giving each contestant an opportunity to win. Adding over $45,000 of prize money boosted the Pendleton rodeo to the fifth highest pay-out in the PRCA, and it remains the biggest four-day rodeo purse in the country. To create a new fan experience the Pendleton Round-Up opened the 1910 Room, a new trackside gourmet meal opportunity featuring Portland celebrity Chef Max Germano; also a new outdoor watering hole called the Loading Chute Bar where contestants can meet friends with an arena view. Contestant family seating was reserved in a premium seating area and each contestant was provided food-script to be traded for any of the great food vendors on the grounds. These initiatives guaranteed the return of top cowboys and cowgirls to Pendleton, competing on top livestock, resulting in four exciting days enjoyed by over 52,000 enthusiastic ticket holders.

The PRCA also acknowledged several Pendleton Round-Up performers as the best of the best in 2016. Announcer Wayne Brooks was awarded the PRCA Announcer of the year. Dusty Tuckness was presented with 2016 Bullfighter of the Year, and entertainer Justin Rumford was named 2016 Clown of the Year. Pendleton native Marty Campbell, who broadcasts the Pendleton Round-Up live for Capps Broadcasting was honored with the PRCA’s Broadcaster of the Year Award. “Our board has invited the best talent available into our arena,” said Publicity Director Randy Thomas, “Our fans really know rodeo and would not appreciate anything less.”

“This was a big night for the City of Pendleton, Round-Up volunteers, fans and friends,” said General Manager Casey Beard, “the Let ‘er Buck brand is alive and well.”

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - A new adventure!

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The Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon have partnered with the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino to make the Hard Rock their official host property during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

“We are extremely excited to join with our friends at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino to offer our fans a special opportunity to enjoy one of the most exciting properties in Las Vegas while attending the National Finals”, said Round-Up President Bill Levy. “The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is the closest property to the Thomas and Mack Arena, is home to the finals of the Bull Fighters Only Tour Championship and offers special before and after viewing parties for the Finals. Like the Round-Up and Happy Canyon, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino has a reputation for fun and excitement so we think this is a great partnership.”

To launch the partnership, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is offering a special rate to Round-Up and Happy Canyon fans using the code HRFDPRU.

Sweetening the deal even more, one lucky fan will win a prize package of 2 WNFR tickets and 2 free nights at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. For details, please visit the Pendleton Round-Up Facebook page.

Happy Canyon President JJ Spriet’s comments summed up the spirit of the partnership, “This is opportunity is great for our loyal fans and volunteers to enjoy the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino’s legendary hospitality and entertainment opportunities while being next door to the WNFR. As a host to the inaugural Bull Fighters Only Tour, we were thrilled with its exciting action. Staying at the Hard Rock offers our fans an opportunity to enjoy even more heart stopping Bull Fighters Only action.”

* The Facebook page contest is open to all of our loyal followers & friends! To enter follow this link to our Facebook page contest, https://www.facebook.com/pendletonroundup/photos/p...

Tell us why you want to go to WNFR & stay at Hard Rock use our #leterbuck & #hardrockhotellv be sure to like our page post & share with your friends.

ProRodeo Sports News!

Check out our great article from ProRodeo Sports News magazine below!
Or, if you are a subscriber, click here:
http://prorodeo.com/prorodeo/media/pro-rodeo-sport...

Oct. 2016 Pendleton Round-Up in PSN!

2016 Big 4

NEWS FROM THE BIG 4

The Rodeos of

Kennewick, WA – Horse Heaven Round-Up

Walla Walla, WA – Walla Walla Frontier Days

Lewiston, ID – Lewiston Roundup

Pendleton, OR – Pendleton Round-Up

For more information: Randy Thomas, Publicity Director, Pendleton Round-Up (541) 379-6776

Stevi Hillman has won the coveted Big 4 Best in the Northwest award as a result of competing at Kennewick, Washington’s Horse Heaven Round-Up, Walla Walla, Washington’s Walla Walla Frontier Days, the Lewiston Roundup in Lewiston, Idaho and the Pendleton Round-Up in Pendleton, Oregon.

The Best in the Northwest award is given to the contestant accumulates the most points while competing in all of the Big 4 rodeos. Hillman of Weatherford, Texas placed high enough in the barrel racing competition at Kennewick, Walla Walla, Lewiston and Pendleton to earn enough points to win the custom made saddle designed especially for the award by Stoney Saddlery of Hermiston, Oregon. The placings at the Big 4 rodeos also helped Hillman on her way into the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association’s top standings as a qualifier for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

The saddle along with other prizes will be awarded to Hillman at the Big 4 Reception held this November during the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

The Big 4 Rodeo Association was established in 1948 and remains as one of the oldest rodeo associations of its type in professional rodeo today. The Big 4 rodeos occur in consecutive weeks starting with Kennewick’s Horse Heaven Round-Up in late August and finishing with Pendleton in mid-September.

For more information about all of the Big 4 rodeos please visit their websites at:

http://www.bentonfranklinfair.com/p/about/227 http://www.lewistonroundup.com http://wallawallafairgrounds.com/the~rodeo/ http://www.pendletonroundup.com

Pendleton Round-Up App

Download the new Pendleton Round-Up app, for the latest in event, ticket, and lodging information.

Apple users download here

Android users download here

Pendleton Round-Up Introduces The 1910 Room, an Exclusive Foodie Experience

Pendleton, Ore. – The Pendleton Round-Up, Oregon’s oldest and largest outdoor rodeo, announces the addition of upscale food venues during this year’s event September 14-17, including The 1910 Room and the The Stock Tank. Guests of The 1910 Room can watch rodeo events in luxurious comfort and style while enjoying gourmet food, decadent desserts and top-notch service. Meanwhile, patrons of the Stocktank, open to all rodeo-goers, can belly up to the barrel-racing excitement, enjoying libations just feet from the third and final barrel.

Chef Max Germano of Portland will prepare a classic, western-inspired menu available to The 1910 Room package ticket holders. He says dishes such as grilled pork chops smothered in blackberry and Pendleton Whiskey BBQ sauce and s’mores with a red wine chocolate sauce will provide an elevated foodie experience for discerning fans. “For example, the S’mores are a twist on an old favorite, featuring house-made graham cracker with a dark chocolate and chili torte, brûléed fresh marshmallow and a chocolate wine sauce,” Germano says.

Guests of The 1910 Room also can enjoy a variety of Tillamookies from Tillamook Creamery’s ice cream parlor, as well as fresh root beer on tap from Rogue Ales & Spirits.

Fans can choose from several packages providing access to The 1910 Room depending on need and length of stay. From individual tickets to private suites, options exist for solo fans, families, couples and corporate groups.

1910 Room Packages

Ticket information here, http://www.pendletonroundup.com/p/about/tickets/19...

A top destination for cowboys and urbanites alike, the iconic rodeo attracts thousands of visitors to Eastern Oregon each September. “Brimming with bucking bronco shows and our famous Westward Ho! Parade, Pendleton Round-Up brings the Old West to life,” says Bill Levy, president of Pendleton Round-Up. “With The 1910 Room, our fans can experience the same thrilling events with the added benefits of VIP comfort and an elevated menu showcasing the bounty of Oregon.”

The Loading Chute-

Rodeo-goers also will have access to The Stock Tank at the east end of the arena. Situated under the scoreboard, in front of the third and final barrel, the The Stock Tank offers guests an exciting, front-row seat to the barrel racing events. Open to the general public, this is the best spot in the house to watch the barrel racers dash for home in the famous “Green Mile” course.

Packages for The 1910 Room and passes to the Stock Tank Saloon will be available for purchase by phone on Monday, June 13. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Corissa Schuening at 541-276-2553 ext. 416.

Pendleton Round-Up / Banner Bank Master Card

Pendleton Round-Up Credit Card to Help Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund

Fans of the Pendleton Round-Up now have a new way to show their support for the world famous rodeo while helping injured contestants through the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund by carrying a Round-Up credit card issued by Banner Bank. Featuring the iconic “Let’er Buck” bucking horse logo, the card will provide funds to the Round-Up and Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund for each card issued as well as each time the card is used. In addition to supporting the Round-Up and injured cowboys and cowgirls, the card provides a wide array of benefits to card holders.

Expressing Banner Bank’s support for this exciting project, Dianne Larsen, Senior Vice President for Marketing said, “We are delighted to partner with the historic Pendleton Round-Up to bring a new credit card option to Round-Up fans. We’re especially pleased that the Round-Up is donating 50% of their proceeds from card revenue to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund, which provides financial support to injured professional rodeo athletes and their families. With western roots dating back to 1890, Banner Bank is an active member of the communities in which we operate and we’re proud to collaborate with the Round-Up to provide a highly competitive credit card to rodeo fans.”

Hall of Fame pitcher and Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund Board of Directors member Nolan Ryan voiced his support for the project saying, “Thanks to groups like the Pendleton Round-Up and their generous contributions, the JCCF is able to help cowboys and cowgirls when injuries happen. Knowing there is help available can take away the anxiety of meeting day to day expenses, so the focus is on getting healthy and pursuing their professional rodeo goals.”

Card holders will be able to show their support for the Pendleton Round-Up every time they use their card to Let’er Buy. To learn more about the card and the many benefits it provides including:

No Annual Fee

TruRewards program for air travel, merchandise and even Round-Up tickets

Discounts on purchases at the Pendleton Round-Up gift shop or the online store at www.leterbuck.com

Discounts on Wednesday and Thursday Round-Up tickets

Advanced notice of special Round-Up events

Opportunities for Pendleton Round-Up VIP programs

To help introduce the card to rodeo fans, the Pendleton Round-Up, Justin Boots and Western Crossings are sponsoring a “Let’er Buy” contest featuring two premium rodeo tickets, a pair of Justin Boots, a bottle of Let’er Buck vintage cologne and other exciting prizes. To learn more about the Let’er Buy contest, visit pendletonroundup.com or justinboots.com.

Pendleton Round-Up President Bill Quesenberry summed up the program when he observed, “The new credit card builds on our collaboration with Banner Bank to let Round-Up fans show their support while helping a great cause, the Justin Cowboy Crisis fund. Working with community partners like Banner Bank and Justin Boots in innovative ways allows the Pendleton Round-Up to remain one of world’s greatest rodeos while helping our contestant cowboys and cowgirls. We hope all of our fans will check out the new credit card and Let’er Buy.”

Apply here now

2015 Achievements

THE PENDLETON ROUND-UP WINS LARGE OUTDOOR RODEO OF THE YEAR AND REMUDA AWARD
Leading industry and national awards affirm Pendleton Round Up’s leadership in U.S. Rodeo
PENDLETON, Ore. (December 18, 2016) Last night, the Pendleton Round-Up celebrated winning top national Rodeo awards, including the Large Outdoor Rodeo of the Year buckle, Remuda trophy and other awards won at this year’s National Finals Rodeo, as well as the upcoming 100th Anniversary of the Happy Canyon Pageant. Joining the Pendleton Round-Up board at the event were State Senator Bill Hansell, State Representative Greg Barreto, Umatilla County Commissioners George Murdock, Larry Givens and Bill Elfering and Pendleton Mayor Phil Houk.
“We have always considered ourselves a ‘cowboys rodeo’ so winning the Rodeo of the Year award is a great honor,” commented incoming Pendleton Round-Up President Bill Levy. “But the award reflects not only the performers but the overall guest experience, and the credit for that goes to our all-volunteer board and the hundreds of Pendleton residents that volunteer to make the whole event stand out from all others in the country.”
Levy also expressed his congratulations to other members of the Pendleton Round-Up team: Bullfighter of the Year Dusty Tuckness; Coors Man in the Can and Clown of the Year Justin Rumford; and Pick-Up Man of the Year Matt Twitchell.
“Winning both these prestigious awards in the same year is a tribute to the dedication and hard work that makes Pendleton Round-Up a world class rodeo and one of Oregon’s premier community events,” said Governor Kate Brown. “The Pendleton Round-Up’s awards symbolize what happens when a community works together to achieve a lofty goal. The citizens of the city of Pendleton and Umatilla County, and the members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, can all take pride in this outstanding accomplishment.”
“As anyone who has ever attended the Pendleton Round-Up can attest to, these awards are well deserved,” said Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley. “The Pendleton Round-Up is truly a one of a kind event and one of Oregon’s many cultural treasures.”
The Remuda Award is presented to the rodeo voted by the cowboys as having the most consistent and even bucking stock. Directors Randy Bracher and Dave O’Neill worked closely with seven of the PRCA’s top stock contractors: the Calgary Stampede, Sankey Pro Rodeos, Burch Rodeo Company, Four Star Rodeo, Flying Diamond Rodeo and Outlaw Buckers to bring their very best bucking horses and bulls to the Pendleton Round-Up.
“The Pendleton Round-Up is the greatest rodeo in the world. I want to join you in thanking all of your hard working volunteers who embody the can do spirit of Eastern Oregon and continue the Round-Up’s traditions and values,” said U.S. Rep. Greg Walden. “The City of Pendleton and Umatilla County can be justly proud for being home to this legendary community event.”
In addition to the awards, the special event also kicked off the 100th Anniversary celebration of the Happy Canyon Company, which produces the Happy Canyon Pageant. The pageant is a show depicting the settling of the American West, beginning with a portrayal of the Native American way of life prior to the arrival of the white man, continuing with the arrival of Lewis and Clark, followed by the prairie schooners of the pioneers of the Oregon Trail and concluding with a reenactment of a frontier town's rollicking main street mishaps.
The Pageant is a time honored and favorite feature of the Round-Up, and its 100th anniversary is a testament to the timeless story it tells as well as the quality of performers.

New President and four new directors elected to the board

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The Pendleton Round-Up Association has installed four new Directors to the Official Board of this 105 year old iconic Oregon event and Bill Levy will be President of the Association. The new directors join a sixteen member board with wide-ranging separate assignments encompassing responsibilities from publicity to hay and barns.

New director Tiah DeGrofft will be the 2016 Sponsors Director. She has a notable history of organizing and promoting sporting events, including working with Oregon Sports Authority, Peter Jacobsen Productions, as well as former owner, Vice President of Client Relations for Eident Sports Marketing in Providence, Rhode Island. She is currently employed as Community Relations Administrator for Wildhorse Foundation, Pendleton, Oregon. DeGrofft has extensive involvement in the Round-Up, including Grand Entry rides in 1999 as Round-Up Princess, and 2001 as Round-Up Queen. She has painted, cleaned stock pens, driven shuttles, and saddled-up countless horses for their “victory lap” by Round-Up Champions. In 2015 she served as President of the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame. “Being born and raised in Pendleton, I have a vested interest,” DeGrofft stated. “The betterment of the Pendleton Round-Up is vital to our community’s success.”

Rob Burnside will serve as the 2016 Programs and Ushers Director. Burnside is employed as the Fire Chief for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, where he previously has served as Vice Chairman of the Tribal Board of Trustees. He has been an active lifetime community volunteer, currently serving on the boards of the Rollin Schimmel Memorial Wrestling Foundation, the Happy Canyon Foundation (Vice President), and the Washington Cutting Horse Association Board. His Round-Up participation began at the age of five months old, when he was carried into the arena to dance in regalia. Since that time he has moved cattle, water and fed livestock, untied calves and steers for slack, been a dignitary tour guide, installed arena signage, and served eight years as a Happy Canyon Director. “I believe in honoring the history and culture of the old west.” said Burnside, “and Round-Up honors both the Indian and Cowboy way of life. It brings thousands of people to our town and is both a portrayal of our regional history and source of revenue for our community.”

Dr. Bradley Adams joins the Round-Up Board as the 2016 Room 17/Medical Director. Dr. Adams’ joined the Eastern Oregon Orthopedic Surgery & Fracture Clinic in 2001. He is certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Advanced Trauma Life Support. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedics, and Orthopedic Trauma Association. He has worked fifteen years on the Pendleton Round-Up’s medical team, assisting both competitors and patrons. He looks forward to strengthening the relationship between the rodeo and community health care providers. “I think Round-Up has evolved from a local get-together in the fall, to a major sporting event that is critical to many of our town’s businesses,” stated Adams. “It provides a sense of identity for Pendleton.”

Tim Bennett, of Walla Walla, Washington, will take over as the 2016 Security Director. Bennett is employed as the Public Communications Officer for the Walla Walla Police Department. His career has provided many community service opportunities, including DARE officer, serving as a board member of the Walla Walla Crime Watch, Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs (Executive Board), and the local SWAT Team’s Crisis Negotiations Unit. “I still consider Pendleton my home,” reflected Bennett, “although I moved away to start my career.” His Round-Up connection is a long one, including working the Arena Fence Crew for 35 years, beginning at age fifteen alongside his father. For the last three years he has volunteered to assist with Round-Up’s Security. He has also covered night shifts as a Umatilla County Reserve Deputy for twenty-five years. “It will be an honor to serve the Round-Up Board,” said Bennett. “The tourism dollars brought in to my hometown are vitally important to the community that raised me.”

Pendleton Round-Up Directors may serve two four-year terms. This year retiring Pendleton Round-Up Directors include Troy LeGore (Room 17/Medical), Tygh Campbell (Competitive Events), John Trumbo (Security), and ten-year Round-Up Board veteran and 2015 Association President, Bill Quesenberry.

2016 PENDLETON ROUND-UP ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

Bill Levy Association President

Dave O’Neill Arena / VP of Association

Rob Collins Indian Director and Secretary

Nick Sirovatka Office Director and Treasurer

Carl Culham Competitive Events

Doug Doyle Hay and Barns

Randy Thomas Publicity

Randy Leonard Parades

Mike Ledbetter Let ‘er Buck! Room

Randy Bracher Livestock

Jayne Clarke Queen and Court

Bob Roselle Grounds

Karl Farber Concessions

Tiah DeGrofft Sponsors

Rob Burnside Programs and Ushers

Brad Adams Room 17/Medical

Tim Bennett Security

Chinook and Bryson at NFR in Las Vegas

Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon will be well represented at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo next month. On Saturday, December 5, Chinook and Bryson Bronson will present the flag of the United States of America during the opening of the famed annual rodeo in Las Vegas.

“It’s quite an honor to have Chinook and Bryson represent our events in Las Vegas at the WNFR.” said Pendleton Round-Up President, Bill Quesenberry. “They are instantly recognizable to people in Pendleton as the representatives of our two fantastic events. Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon are lucky to have them.”

Happy Canyon President Jason Hill was excited as well. “What a wonderful kick-off to Happy Canyon’s 100th Anniversary.” said Hill. “Chinook and Bryson have performed so well at PBR and Happy Canyon over the years, it’s nice to see them, and our two events, garner national recognition.” Hill went on to say.

This isn’t the first time Chinook and Bronson have presented the colors in Las Vegas. In April the pair, along with Chinook’s owner, Rusty Black made the trek to Nevada to present the flag at the Longines FEI World Cup. According to Hill the success the two experienced there helped pave the way to the WNFR. “We had representatives from Las Vegas Events here during Round-Up week.” said Hill. “That was kind of a final try-out for Chinook and Bryson.”

Chinook and Bronson did not disappoint. In a bid to help highlight the pair, Bronson wore his regalia while carrying the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation flag during Friday’s Pendleton Round-Up Grand Entry while LVE representatives were in attendance.

“Chinook and Bryson did a fantastic job during Round-Up week this year.” said Pendleton Round-Up Publicity Director Carl Culham. “We believe they are excellent representatives of our traditions here in Pendleton.”

Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon will also have a presence at the Cowboy Christmas event running simultaneously with the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. For the past two years, in usual partnership, the organizations along with Travel Pendleton have set-up a booth at the Las Vegas convention Center in what Las Vegas Events terms as Rodeo Way. “The Rodeo Way booth is a great way to let people know about Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon.” Culham said. “This will be the second year we have shared our version of Western Tradition with rodeo fans from all over the country and a perfect lead in to Happy Canyon’s 100th year.”

The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo will be telecast on CBS Sports Network. Check your local listings for channel information. The rodeo runs from December 3 to December 12. The Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Rodeo Way booth is Number 110 for those heading to Las Vegas. Admission to the Cowboy Christmas event is free.

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Cougars Roar at Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Offer Special Alumni Discounts to Round-Up and Happy Canyon

South of the Palouse’s rolling hills lies the Eastern Oregon

town of Pendleton; home to the world famous Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Night Show. With its iconic bucking horse and cowboy logo and cries of “Let’er Buck”, the 105 year old rodeo draws over 70,000 fans from around the world each year during the second full week of September. When the sun goes down and the arena grows dark, fans descend on the Happy Canyon Night Show for an evening of fun featuring Native American culture, western history and good old fashion music and humor served up by a cast of hundreds of volunteers. Entering its ninety-ninth year, Happy Canyon is the oldest community pageant in America.

Visitors to Pendleton during Round-Up week also enjoy events like the Westward Ho Parade, America’s longest non-motorized parade; the storied “Let’er Buck Room”, concerts featuring top country-western stars; two nights of professional bull riding; Native American beauty pageants and dancing; BBQs and free downtown shows. Throw in great shopping and restaurants and Round-Up and Happy Canyon are an unforgettable experience.

While the Round-Up and Happy Canyon are well known, what isn’t common knowledge is the key role of Washington State University Alumni in making the events an enduring success. Over the years, Cougars have served with distinction on the Boards of Directors of the Round-Up and Happy Canyon.

Among notable Round-Up Cougars is the late Mike Hopper, Class of 73. Mike’s service on the Round-Up Board culminated with selection as the Association’s President from 1996 to 1998. While at Pullman, Mike and his wife Diana were star members of the WSU rodeo team and captained the men’s and women’s squads. Following graduation, they ranched together near Stanfield, Oregon, running the Double M Ranch and Top Cut Feed feedlot. Mike also competed in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association as a steer wrestler and was active in the Future Farmers of America program. The Round-Up’s Mike Hopper Memorial Steer Wrestling Buckle is presented in his memory each year as is the Mike Hopper Scholarship to the outstanding FFA member in Umatilla County.

The Hansell family has a long history of service to WSU, the Round-Up and Happy Canyon. Kenzie Hansell, a fourth generation volunteer, currently serves as a Happy Canyon Director. A member of the class of 2004, he played football for the Cougars including the 2001 Sun Bowl, 2003 Rose Bowl and the 2003 Holiday Bowl teams. In keeping with long-standing family tradition, Kenzie was a member of Sigma Chi. After graduation, Kenzie and his wife Emily, class of 2004, returned to Athena, Oregon to run the family farming business along with brothers TJ and Luke, who also played football for WAZZU and volunteered at the Round-Up. In addition to serving as a Director for the Happy Canyon Night Show, Kenzie is active in coaching youth sports programs and involved in local farming organizations.

Kenzie inherited his love for the Round-Up and Happy Canyon from his late father, Ty. A 1969 graduate, he anchored the Cougar’s line as a standout offensive lineman. In addition to serving as a Round-Up Director, Ty developed a very successful farming operation centered on Hermiston, Oregon. A forward thinking community and industry leader, Ty was instrumental in launching the award winning Farmers Ending Hunger program, created by former WSU faculty member Fred Ziari, and was appointed to the Oregon Water Resources Board by three Governors.

Kenzie’s grandfather, Dr. William H. Hansell, a WSU veterinary program graduate, served as the Round-Up and Happy Canyon veterinarian from 1948 to 1968. Dr. Hansell ended his long service to the Round-Up so he could have his time in September free to watch son Ty play for his beloved Cougars.

The tradition of Cougar football players being part of the Round-Up includes Bob Ewen, Class of 1970. A star running back at Pullman, Bob held the record for the team’s longest punt and signed with the Dallas Cowboys following his time in Crimson and Grey. Ewen was a member of Sigma Nu during his days on campus. Bob latter enjoyed a career with the Oregon State Police; holding several important assignments before retiring as a Captain. His involvement with the Round-Up began when Ty Hansell invited Bob to Round-Up Ewen, enjoyed the experience so much he became a volunteer and ultimately was asked to become a Director.

Mike Thorne, Class of 62, is another distinguished Round-Up Cougar. Mike was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho and Phi Kappa Phi honor society. After graduating, Mike, and his wife Jill who also attended WSU, returned to Oregon where he served for many years as the state senator representing Northeast Oregon. He also held important leadership positions as the Executive Director of the Port of Portland and Director of the Washington State Ferry System. Currently, Mike runs the family farming and ranching operations near Pendleton while serving on several foundations and boards, including the Oregon State University Board of Trustees. During his tenure as a Round-Up Director, Mike helped lead efforts to celebrate the Round-Up’s 100th Anniversary including the construction of the Centennial West Grandstand. Completing the Thorne family’s WSU Round-Up connection, daughter Katy, currently the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Director, was the Queen of the Round-Up.

1971 graduate Casey Beard serves as the Round-Up and Happy Canyon’s first General Manager. While at WSU, he was a member of Phi Sigma Kappa and the Butch Men. Commissioned through the WSU ROTC program, Casey and his wife Anne, who attended WSU, spent 20 years in the Army. During his career, Beard held important command and staff positions, served as an exchange officer with the British Army, attended the Navy War College and participated in Desert Storm. Retiring from the Army, Beard returned to the Northwest to manage the family rodeo business providing bucking horses and bulls for the Northwest’s top rodeos, including the Round-Up. Casey served on the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Board of Directors. After selling the family rodeo company, the Round-Up and Happy Canyon hired him as their first General Manager.

One of the unique features making the Round-Up and Happy Canyon so special is the contribution of thousands of volunteers who collectively donate over 60,000 hours of their time each year to insure that the events are successful. Representative of these civic minded supporters is Anne (French) Livingston, Class of 1988. Anne was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta and the Rally Squad during her days at Pullman. In addition to serving as the Director of Student Recruiting, Marketing and Leadership at Blue Mountain Community College, Anne has held several key volunteer assignments at the Round-Up. Carrying on the Cougar connection, daughters Justine and Julia, both volunteers in their own right, will enroll in WSU’s 2016 freshman class.

Completing the WSU connection to the Round-Up and Happy Canyon is champion cowboy Tom Sorey, who attended WSU in the 1900s. Always a top contender, Tom won the Steer Roping title in 1999. Tom’s daughter, Emily Jayne, a Princess on the current Round-Up Court, plans to attend WSU.

To recognize the special association between WSU and the Round-Up and Happy Canyon, Cougar alumni can enjoy a special discount on tickets for the Wednesday, September 16 and Thursday, September 17 performances as well as special offers on Round-Up and Happy Canyon merchandise available at the Round-Up’s online store. Please visit their web site www.pendletonroundup.com and enter code gocougs15 or call (541) 276-2553 to purchase tickets and merchandise. Come on down to Pendleton this September to join your fellow Cougars and help them “Let’er Buck”.

2015 Volunteer of the Year

The Pendleton Round-Up Board of Directors is please to recognize Rick Rohde as the 2015 Volunteer of the Year.

Rick, an 11 year volunteer, was chosen not only for his efforts related to making the Pendleton Round-Up all that it can be, but for his true volunteer spirit that extends beyond the Round-Up grounds and makes Pendleton community the best it can be.

Rick’s efforts for the Pendleton Round-Up include being a member of the concessions crew that makes sure spectators have nice cold refreshments (beer!) the entire week of Round-Up. Not that he has spare time in this commitment, but he also is a member of the Pendleton Round-Up shuttle crew assisting where needed in ensuring the program works like clockwork providing rides to the thousands of visitors that use the shuttles to move around Pendleton during Round-Up week.

Rick’s work extends beyond Round-Up week where he volunteers his time during our Fourth of July PBR and barrel race by being on hand for the two busy days of July 3 and 4 helping out everywhere he can. Add to this his personal mission of doing his part all year around where you can find Rick walking Pendleton trash bag in hand picking up litter where ever he finds it.

Rick is proud of Pendleton and the Pendleton Round-Up and you can tell it by his personal dedication to not only his specific volunteer duties but the time he dedicates outside of Round-Up to make sure Pendleton shines to all that visit. This year presented the prime example after a stint of snow and ice left the street frontage side walk from our famous bucking horse statute to Dairy Queen covered with gravel. Broom in hand one day, Rick hand swept the entire length of the sidewalk, as by his words, “that gravel just looked terrible”.

Congratulations Rick we could not do it without you and the other hundreds of volunteers that make us the World Famous Pendleton Round-Up!

2015 Westward Ho! Parade Grand Marshall

Pendleton Cowboy Mounted Band

In 1910 after the first Pendleton Round Up, R.W. Fletcher came up with the idea of a horse mounted band. Its first public appearance was leading the Westward Ho! Parade in 1911. That band continued until 1938. Mr. Fletcher and his family also traveled, and advertised the Pendleton Round Up and Happy Canyon, with the Fletcher Family Jazz Band. He also developed and acted as several characters for the Happy Canyon Night Pageant and produced and led the Happy Canyon Hick Band. That band and those characters are still portrayed in Happy Canyon today, some of them by members of his family.

The current Pendleton Cowboy Mounted Band was formed in 1985 by Judge Richard Courson and local band director Robert (Bob) Herbig to reprise the original Pendleton Round Up Mounted Band of 1911. 1985 was the 75 ^th anniversary of the Pendleton Round Up and the band was to be an historical re-enactment that was to last for one year. Twenty musicians, many of them students of Mr. Herbig, were gathered from Oregon and Washington to learn the Sousa and other Marches that were mandatory parade fare. Outriders then brought horses to the round up grounds to get acquainted with their new riders and the instruments. Some horses never adapted. A few musicians didn’t either although a large majority of the current membership has been playing on horses for twenty or more years.

The one year commitment has elongated into 30 years. The all-volunteer band has played at rodeos, fairs and parades in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Nevada. The band members come from Oregon, Washington and Idaho. They wear no prescribed uniform but dress “western individual”; appropriate for this diverse bunch from three states. Most members play instruments in the band but there are also flag bearers, ground help, and the critical outriders who retrieve wind – driven music sheets or dropped drum sticks or help control a nervous or fast paced horse.

One of the songs the Mounted Band plays is “Meet Me at the Round Up”, the theme of the Centennial year. It was written in 1924 for the Pendleton Round Up by Portlander Emil Berggren for a vocalist with piano accompaniment and arranged for band by Chris Thomas of Pendleton. It was adapted for this Band by Randy Morgan, the current music director. You can see the cover page from the original music on some of the flags carried with the band.

The current Leadership includes Greg Dennis, livestock and transportation director. Mr. Dennis joined the band in 1988 to help his mother, a band member who had been injured one week before the first show. In addition to showing concern for his mother he demonstrated a working knowledge of horses and equipment and a very good work ethic. He was adopted as an outrider. While his responsibilities for the band increased he also became active in the Happy Canyon Night Pageant. He is a guard at EOCI and an EMT. He is a medic and tank mechanic in the Oregon National Guard, Fox Company.

The Music director is Randy Morgan. Mr. Morgan is a band and choral director, math teacher and athletic director at Enterprise HS. He is a long time member of the Elks Lodge and has worked in leadership roles in the organization throughout Eastern Oregon. He plays trumpet with the Inland Northwest Symphony and the Wallowa Valley Symphony and is associate conductor with each. He has adapted numerous songs for the Mounted Band which he joined the band in 1987. The Parade Director since 2002 is Dr. John Groupe. He is a retired veterinarian whose services the band has used. He is a knowledgeable and entertaining trail guide He is also a published author with two well written and detailed books. One about most of the horse packing trails in eastern Oregon and another on his observations of living in this wonderful part of the world.

The Organizing Director since 2001 is Dr. Gary Zimmerman, a Pendleton Chiropractor who is active in the College Community Theatre and the Pendleton men’s chorus. He is a former vice president of the Oregon Chiropractic Association, President of the Oregon Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and president of the Umatilla County Fair. He has been a cast member of the Happy Canyon Night Pageant for over 40 years and now leads the Hick Band for which he has written and arranged music. He plays clarinet or saxophone in the Mounted Band.

As is consistent with all of the volunteers that help put on the Pendleton Round Up, in all of its aspects. The entire band has devoted countless hours of volunteerism and miles traveled. It is made up and sustained by a core group of dedicated hard working band members, outriders, barn and support help.

Jeff Zimmerman, trombone player, said back in 1985 when the current band was formed for the 75 ^th anniversary of the Pendleton Round Up, we were all hoping it would have a unique and festive impact on the audiences. We had no idea that it would have so much personal influence on the individuals involved. Through their involvement with the Cowboy Mounted Band, some of our members have become comfortable around horses and others have built confidence in their horsemanship skills. Lifelong friendships between musicians and wranglers have been developed through these past 29 years of practicing, traveling, and caring for livestock and cleaning barns. Many of the musicians that hadn’t played with a group since school days were enticed to start playing again in order to ride with this fun loving, close knit, one-of-a kind band of merry makers. The band is enthusiastically accepted wherever it performs. Every fair and rodeo in the country has a queen and court, but when the Cowboy Mounted Band rides down the street blaring out a recognizable march, people immediately think of The Pendleton Round Up! Let’er Buck, in time with the music.

On this, their 30^th anniversary, we congratulate and thank the entire unit for their service to, and representation of the Pendleton Round Up and the community as a whole.