SPOONER — They began gathering early in the evening on Wednesday, June 19, as the intoxicating smell of the great barbecue pork being prepared by La Cabana Nick’s Family Restaurant’s caterers started to fill the air.
In the background, Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler” could be heard, followed by Glen Campbell with “Rhinestone Cowboy” and Johnny Cash belting out “Ring of Fire.” Country/western classics set the mood nicely. It was a perfect night for cowboy hats and boots.
The event was the 2024 Spooner Heart of the North Rodeo BBQ, a unique Spooner get-together that very much captures the Western spirit of the rodeo and the community. It is the kickoff for the Spooner Rodeo season, a time for everybody to gather for good food, rodeo talk and relaxation before the rush of the rodeo actually arrives.
“This is Spooner,” commented one guest looking around. “This really captures the area and the people who live here.”
Perfectly stated.
The familiar, traditional red shirts of the Spooner Rodeo Committee were everywhere, proudly worn by the hardworking, dedicated people who each year make the Rodeo possible. It is a group effort, as everyone pitches in and pulls together to get the Herculean task done. And somehow, it always works out. The committee got together in the arena before the meal for their annual group photo, a sea of red and many smiles from folks who have a lot to be proud of.
Rodeo RoyaltyBeginning their one-year reign as Spooner Rodeo Royalty were newly crowned Princess Bree Copp and Queen Arianna Hendricks. The girls officially got their buckles and chaps from Rodeo Committee Vice Chairman Bob LeMoine, the son of Charter Member Bob LeMoine Sr., as “MamaÚ” Kate Peck happily looked on. Peck, in charge of the Queen Committee, really does take the young ladies under her protective, guiding wing from start to finish each year.
“I’m really excited,” said Copp. “This is going to be so much fun, a really great experience.”
“I can’t wait to see what this year brings,” added Hendricks. “We hope to see everybody at the Spooner Rodeo.”
Iowa guestsRodeo legend Bob Barnes helped get the Spooner Rodeo started back in 1954, guiding it until his passing. He was considered family and an honorary Spooner citizen over the years.
His son, Marty Barnes, continues that legacy, and today operates Barnes PRCA Rodeo Co., which has provided stock for Spooner each and every year. Marty literally grew up in rodeo and the Spooner Rodeo Arena.
Like his father did on many occasions, Marty went out of his way to attend the Spooner Rodeo BBQ, along with his daughter, Micah, the former Miss Rodeo Iowa, who will compete at Spooner in July. They drove up from Buffalo, Minn., to be in Spooner.
“Our family had been here since day one,” said Marty. “Four generations of Barnes have been here, and I see a third generation of some on the Rodeo Committee. That’s the unique thing about Spooner Rodeo is the generations of committee members involved.
“I enjoy this area, the blue skies, fresh air and bald eagles. The welcome mat is always rolled out here for Rodeo. We feel very welcome.”
ProgramPrior to the meal there was a program, started as Peck introduced the Rodeo Royalty.
“It’s an honor to represent the Spooner Rodeo,” Hendricks told the crowd. I want to thank my parents for their support, my friends and my Lord and Savior — I wouldn’t be here without Jesus.”
“This is such an honor,” said Copp. “It’s a dream come true.”
Peck told the crowd that the competition between the girls was extremely close, with Copp winning Horsemanship and Hendricks winning Communication and Poise & Personality.
“It’s been a joy working with each of you,” she added. “I love what I do.”
The girls presented Peck with a gift, a beautiful handmade quilt. Peck then presented the prestigious Coca Cola rodeo chaps to the 2024 Event Girl, former Rodeo Queen Gloria Stumph, now also known as the “Coke Girl.”
Dick Fankhauser has been the Spooner Rodeo Committee chairman for 37 years, helping to guide the Rodeo to heights never dreamed of in 1954. He reported that ticket sales are ahead of last year, which was a record year, selling out every performance all three nights.
It wasn’t always so good, said Fankhauser.
“The first year I was chairman, we cleared $2.50,” he told. “It rained all three days, including during the parade. But things have gone very well lately. Either the good Lord likes rodeo or he likes us. He sure has been good to us the last few years.”
Fankhauser introduced the 2024 Sponsors of the Year, Sevenwinds Casino of Hayward.
“They are a great sponsor and great people to work with,” he said.
Fankhauser and committee member Darin Vik then introduced the Spooner Rodeo Committee Person of the Year, Nancy Olson. Nominated for the committee many years ago by Jim Randall and Glen Rydberg, Olson is in charge of the popular Mutton Bustin’ event.
“We want to thank all of the committee members for all of their hard work,” said LeMoine. “And we want to thank all of the people here for their support.”
“The Spooner Rodeo could not exist without the people and support,” said Fankhauser. “Thank you all. Now, let’s eat.”
And with that, dinner was served!
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