Sedalia, MO

“We’re #1, we’re #1, we’re #1…” This past week (Feb 18th-21st) I returned to Sedalia, for the event that has been voted #1 in the NFPB for five years running! Let me tell ya, Sedalia has rightfully earned its’ title! From the contestants, and bulls, to the fans in the stands, this whole event was a top notch thrill ride, start to finish. It felt so great to be a part of such a spectacular event, that brought me back together, after a winters break, with old friends and new faces. I had the privilege of working with Clint Jackson, and Frank Walkowe along with Sharon Simon and the Federation West crew during my stay in Sedalia. They we’re absolutely amazing! I had the time of my life! Now I’m getting ahead of myself, let’s back up. My Mom, and travel partner arrived early Wednesday evening along with many NFPB personnel. Let me tell you, I was so excited to catch up with everyone and show them my “award winning scrapbook” that the truck was barley in park before I jumped out and headed to them. Then it was two hours of laughs along with the traditional “Rodeo Queen Mom” picture taking session! After which we went over details for the coming days-noting that our 7 a.m. radio interview was now changed to 6:30 a.m.-woo hoo! So it was off to dreamland for a few hours then up and at ‘em with a a.m. wake up call. Myself, Dusty Myers-Pro Rodeo Clown extraordinaire (he’s kind of a big deal!), former Bullfighter Todd Pettigrew and his lovely girls Emma, and Courtney, along with Sharon Simon met in the hotel lobby for the beginning of long day. First we went to the 105.7 Radio station to do live and recorded interviews with several DJs. I have to thank everyone there for their generous time and consideration in sponsoring this event, it is greatly appreciated.  Some of the most memorable moments came from the ever popular “Bruce in the Morning” show, several comments being at the expense of my large, hairspray saturated, “Queen Hair”- which is now known as the “Bulletproof Hairdo.” (Hey I like my big hair, its a fashion statement.) From there we visited two local grade schools. I was so thrilled to speak with all the local children, they were so excited to have us visit. It also gave me the opportunity to speak on my platform “Dream Big,” and to encourage these young children to follow their dreams no matter what, while promoting the NFPB, and the show stopping entertainment I was to be a part of in the coming days. I’m sure the kids enjoyed what I had to say but, Dusty Myers stole the show with his clowning antics and roping demonstrations, which Kendal Pyle, award winning announcer Chris Pyles daughter, was able to be a part of. Then it was off to two more radio stations for a round of interviews. I had so much fun followed by a quick stop at Mickey D’s for a latte. It was then that I acquired a new job, one that I’ve never done before. Sharon Simon had me visit all the local restaurants and businesses the had Marquette signs, and ask them to change them to say “Welcome Rodeo Fans and Bullriders” I was nervous at first, but then things started to come naturally. I was pleasantly surprised that about 90% of them were happy to oblige my request, many even placing my autographed picture up for display. When this task was completed I had a quick clothing change, then headed back to the radio station for the final interview of the day. Then it was off to the Mathewson Exhibition Center for pre event practice, to make sure things were perfect for the event. While waiting for the horses to arrive, I caught up with personnel, went over the schedule, and serenaded President Clint Jackson with a few verses of “I want a hippopotamus for Christmas”. (ever since our Wisconsin trip I’ve been know as Suzie Sings A lot” because I sang for almost twelve hours on the way home) Then we went through sponsor flag runs, not one of my most successful moments as Miss NFPB, those of you who were there know what I mean. I think Brooks and Dunn said it best,” Cowgirls don’t cry … when you fall get right back on.” Does that explain it? Anyway the evening came to an end, and I returned to my hotel to prepare for the coming day. Another early riser, up and at em’ at 5 a.m. hitting the airways with Dusty Myers, Sharon Simon, and Bruce in the Morning. Today I was able to talk about the top notch bullriders at this event, Missouri boys, Dustin Hall, 4 time PBR qualifier, and Seth Reynolds 3 time CBR and 5 time NFPB finalist, Trenton, Tennessee brought us 2time NFPB Federation champ Justin Carlton, (not only is it amazing to do it once but he’s done it twice!) hailing from Garnett, Kansas was leading NFPB man Henry Yoder, along with Emboden, Arkansas’ Curtis Seamans, just to name a few. The tremendous talent displayed at this event was off the charts! I was also able to talk about the wonderful experience this year has truly been, and how much I’m going to miss this … well enough about that! stay tuned for tons of tears come finals time, the waterworks will be on full blast. Then I had some down time before getting ready for the performance and heading back for my final 105.7 radio interview with the lovely DJ Becka. After finishing up there it was time to get down to business at the arena. I arrived early, of course, and the first people I see are two of my favorite-none other than photographer Howard Sears, and #1 bullrider Henry Yoder! Both embraced me in a warm, friendly hug, I love these guys! the night went off without a hitch, for the most part. I signed autographs, carried the American flag at the opening ceremonies, accompanied by a color guard and the angelic voices of the Pettigrew girls, as they sang the National Anthem the event was a nonstop thrill ride, with amazing bullriders, Dusty Myers with his clowning antics, and hone town announcer Chris Pyle, who could ask for more? Henry Yoder would walk away with the top honors this night, congratulations Henry! The evening wrapped up with the first ever after party, featuring Brian Lumley and The Red Dirt Underground Band, they were awesome! The next and final day of the bullride I got to sleep in. (Oh yeah!) Then it was a quick breakfast before heading to the arena to hang out with the “gang” before things got too hectic. I spent a good part of the day chatting with good friend Dusty Myers, about how we both got into “the rodeo scene”- ahh memories. Then we discussed how the evening was going to play out. That’s when he invited me to help him with an act, which I excitedly excepted! After thanking him for the fun opportunity, I headed back to the hotel to gather my belongings for the evening, and to get my “bulletproof hair” back in tip top form. I arrived early so that I could practice flag runs with the horse I was to ride, then did a last minute interview with the 97.7 radio station, who was attending the bullride this night. Walking around the coliseum, seeing the empty seats, sponsor vehicles, and personnel, scurrying about, my evening became surreal. I realized for the most part, this would be it: no more flag runs, autograph signings, meet and greets with fans, in a few short hours the biggest regular event of the year would be over, and in a few short weeks so would my reign as Miss NFPB. It was hard to take in that reality, but that’s what it is reality. Still it made me want to give even more for this performance, not that I didn’t give it my all every time, but this night was special. The opening ceremonies were phenomenal! With the smoke, spotlight, and music, it was almost like being at the finals. I then was part of the best American Flag presentation and, National Anthem I have had the privilege of doing all year long. It was perfect, so very perfect. The night continued with thrills and spills. After the first twelve bulls, Dusty Myers and myself, (Queen And Clown) presented a wild west, shoot em’ up act. I was his lovely assistant, at least that’s how it started out. Then I became a target holder, luckily announcer Chris Pyle saved me from such a fate! We found a replacement target holder, and brought down the house with this hilarious act. In the end I had the last laugh with a final shot from an 8ft long rifle, my target being the “Hiney” of our beloved Rodeo Clown! I had the time of my life! This whole experience was so much fun, and a million times more than I thought it would be. The people I’ve met and the places I’ve been will never be forgotten. It’s all part of who I am today. I’m completely changed from the person I was before last April 6th. I know now its OK to just be me. I have become truly confident and comfortable in my own skin. I feel like because of this year I found myself for the first time in my life. As I watched the last few rides, with the crowd cheering around me and getting rowdy, those were the thoughts in my head. The evening couldn’t have gotten any better. After the lights dimmed for the after party I played a round of “little Sally Walker” with Kendal Pyle, Emma and Courtney Pettigrew, along with several other grade school girls, it was ladies, thank you! Then I said my reluctant good-byes to my friends. Its bitter sweet, honestly, I can’t wait for the Finals, but I know that then this will all be over with. Its like they say I guess,” All good things must come to an end.” Still they also say “Dreams come True,” and for me that’s exactly what this years has been “a dream come true.” I love you all! Good luck at the Finals!

DuQuoin, IL

“We’re feel’in HOTT, HOTT, HOTT!” Wow, sweltering is defiantly a way to describe the heated conditions on the 23ed-24th of August at the Du Quoin State fair in Du Quoin, IL. Woo wee everyone was feeling it. Of course we all know Rodeo Queens only “glisten” when the weather gets warmer. Unfortunately I was somewhat under the weather this weekend which made things a little rough but, with a wonderful crowd, fun fair activities, and the support of the D Bar D crew how could I not feel better? I arrived extremely early and decided to take in the fair festivities. From cattle shows to cooking seminars I saw it all. But the real fun came when I entered the exhibits building and found out this years theme was “Its’ A Jungle Out There.” That’s when I met a 7ft long 70lb albino boa constrictor named “KiKi.” Now that was quite a sight- that I hope to see from a great distance in the future! (Let’s just say I’m more of a cute and cuddly animal lover. Then I greeted the crowds early arrivals and met many wonderful people, who asked many questions about my year so far. I presented the flag at the opening ceremonies and got the night started. Things went great, especially when the heat died down and the action got better and better. Announcer Matt Palmer kept the crowd up all weekend long with his exciting commentary. While “funnyman” Pork Chops hilarity made everyone’s sides hurt before the first section of bulls was through, especially when he got “Pork Chops Callisthenic Extravaganza” going. Complete with hula hooping. I’m just glad I was a spectator rather than a participant. By the next night the weather had cooled down somewhat and I was feeling much better. Once again the excitement of the NFPB took hold of the fairgrounds and the crowd was hooked! Both the Bulls and Cowboys were on their game! There can only be one winner though and on this night it would be Kansas Henry Yoder, riding two bulls to obtain the highest score. Not an easy task with the lineup of competitors we had. The evening then wrapped up as I signed autographs for fans, while chatting with this years Miss and teen Illinois. Both ladies were lovely to talk to and it was nice to answer their questions about the sport. After saying good bye to everyone, Bob and Linda Danials invited me to their last production of the season. Which will take me back to Chester, IL, one of my first events of the year. I’d like to thank them for having me and I look forward to seeing them again soon!

Sedalia, MO

“Let’s get extreme!” Its now the second half of my four day bullride extravaganza. We’re now at the Missouri State Fair (located in Sedalia) its the 15th and 16th of August. For this particular event I became a part of Todd Crases’ White Bufffalo Productions Extreme Bullriding Tour. Things were exactly that from start to finish. On Friday the 15th I was able to meet early arrivals and then headed off to our production meeting for the night, just so everyone knew their job. For me it was to present the American flag aboard a beautiful horse named ”Tex” and then run sponsor flags throughout the night. This was a bit of a change from my usual routine but, I loved every minute of it. Not only did I have a wonderful horse to work with but, I had a front row seat for all the action just behind the gate. I saw many spectacular rides it was perfect! When I completed my duties for the night I headed out toward the crowd to meet and greet a little more. It was then that I ran into 2007 Teen and Miss Rodeo Missouri, Melinda and Melissa Houttin. Who graciously congratulated me on my NFPB title, thanks girls! Then it was time to sign autographs with everyone, and finally pack up for the night. When the next morning rolled around it was early up to get ready for another autograph signing at Genes’ Boots and Hats store- a sponsor for the tour-thank you for your support! I had a lot of fun doing this ita gave me a chance to relax and talk with those who came to sign autographs as well, including Todd and his staff. Then I had a few hours off until it was time to “get Extreme” all over again. Back at the Dodge arena I got a surprise visit from the people I work for. Up until now I hadn’t mentioned what I do for a living but, I am a Childcare Provider for three now three-year-old little boys. Two of which are twin brothers. They and their parents came to see “Miss Jennifer” at her “Rodeo.” Everyday at snack time all we talk about is Bullriding, how the bulls try to buck off the cowboys and of course horses. They love it and they’re also fond of my “glittery” crown, I have to admit I like it too! It was a lot of fun to see them there, we held hands and toured the grounds. They even got to meet my temporary horse Tex and see bucking bulls for the first time. This was one of my favorite most cherished moments to date. From that point I rushed off to a quick production meeting, saddled up and got ready to “get this party started!” Once again it was a busy night spent on horseback presenting the American flag, followed by sponsor flag runs start to finish. It was a lovely night and I couldn’t have asked for a better seat. The whole weekend was a blast! I would like to thank Todd Crase for graciously paying for my hotel room during my stay in Sedalia, it was greatly appreciated. So thank you again! Until next time as Todd would say “Keep it Extreme!”

Rolla, MO

“Chilli, Chilli, Chilli…” Rolla Missouri, home of award winning Bullfighter Chris “Chilli” Lewis. Not only were the Bullriders happy to have him on their side for this event but, the home town crowd was loving every minute of it! Its now time for a four day stretch of Bullrides, starting here August 13th and 14th at the Phelps County Fairgrounds. I arrived very early both evenings and had plenty of time to take in the fair festivities. From 4-H barns, to motorcycle shows, and the ever popular venders, I got to see it all. I even managed to pick up an adorable earring/necklace set for an outfit I’m working on-Bling, Bling baby! From that point I greeted early arrivals for the performances each evening, and had a good laugh with many that I met. The people from Rolla were very kind and had a lovely sense of humor about things. Then it was time for the event to get started. Jackson-Walkowe Productions and Announcer Chris Pyle made for a very exciting two days. Some of the best Bulls and Cowboys in the business were in attendance, and of course home town hero “Chilli” making spectacular saves from start to finish. It just doesn’t get any better than this folks! Entertainment was provided by Funnyman Dusty Meyers, who got the crowd rolling and participating in all the action. I had a wonderful time, the weather was cool and comfortable both days, and I only had to pull out my umbrella for a short time the second day. Hopefully this trend will last as I head for my next destination, Sedalia Missouri, its State Fair time, woo hoo!

Washington, MO

Historic Washington Missouri… The river, the town, Lewis and Clark. So much to see and, so little time, especially when the fair comes around. Luckily I live a short 45 minute drive away and visit the community frequently. (I recommend lunch on the riverfront and a stroll along historic Main Street). Its now August 6th and I’m at it again with Outlaw Productions. Beautiful weather and exciting attractions accompanied the Bullride, along with Mike Gillums signature flames and fireworks. For this particular event I was able to do the American flag presentation on horseback and was happy, as always, to do it in front of a relativley “home town” crowd. It turns out that I know many of the people who were in attendance this evening. From there I spent the majority of the night taking pictures with children, waving and greeting the crowd, while also taking in the productions thrills and spills. The fair committee also loved the event, taking a front row seat the whole evening. It was a blast as usual, and great to finally see people I know.  That doesn’t happen too often. Now for a short drive home, thank heavens, its another early day tomorrow, work and 6:30a.m. come way too soon after a Wednesday event. See you in a few, for me its off to dreamland….zzzzzzzzzz.

Charleston, IL

“Long time, no see… just kidding” Well its now August 2nd, three days since my last Bullride. I’ve arrived in Charleston Illinois, what beautiful weather! Not a cloud for miles, its not too hot and the arena is dry as can be. Quite a change from the last time we spoke. I think that this may be my favorite event so far. Everything was just wonderful and I had a lot of fun with all of the evenings festivities. I have to say though everyone with Jackson-Walkowe productions will probably be glad to have a break from me after today, twice in one week, thats a lot for someone to have to put up with me! I’m not all that bad, at least I don’t think so. Actually we get along like family, which is exactly how I always pictured my experience as Miss NFPB. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Spending so much time with everyone has allowed me to learn a great deal and create life long memories, which I am ever grateful for. Anyway back to my evening, before things got started I was able to visit with the crowd in the stands. I talked with many interesting people, met and laughed with tons of children, and even got to pet a Labrador puppy, she was adorable!  From there we began the performance and I got to be like “Vanna White” introducing our feature cowboys. It was a new experience for me, I think I’ll leave all that up to “Ms. White” from now on though. Then it was business as usual. We had several thrilling rides and the crowd was all a buzz. One of the most enthusiastic we’ve had I think. Everything was  excitement and laughter from start to finish, comic relief once again provided by Dusty Meyers, his quirks never seem to end. When the evening was coming to an end we wrapped it up with a fireworks tribute to our men and women in the armed forces as well as our veterans. It was both beautiful and heart warming. So the evening came to close and I was homebound one more. See you in A few, only four days until my next appearance, see you at the Washington Town and Country Fair!

Owensville, MO

“I’m singing in the rain…” Atleast thats what it looked like to the crowd as I skipped through the stands with my always trusty umbrella. This week, on July 30th, in Owensville Missouri, the Gasconade County fairgrounds was hit with quite a bit of rain. Standing water doesn’t even begin to cover the amount of water left above ground. At first I had worried that this would effect the crowd, but loyal Bullriding fans couldn’t be scared away by a little rain, no sir, the stands were packed! Once again I was with the Jackson-Walkowe Co. and everything was a blast as always. We even got to reminisce alittle about  the Wisconsin trip…ahhh memories. We opened up the show  with our national anthem and prayer but, because it was so muddy in the arena I was introduced from the stands and waved to the crowd from there. From that point on it was slipping, sliding, and spashing in the mudd-for cowboy, clown and animal alike- I like to refer to this evening as “The NFPB Muddfest 2008″ It was quite a sight. Unfortunately I was unable to participate (aww shucks!) however I was extremely supportive from the stands. Speaking of which I met many new people including two men who were hearing impaired. Fortunately my 4th grade teacher taught me sign language (thanks Ms. Neomiller) and I was able to communicate with them a bit, it was a very rewarding experience. As usual Dusty Meyers, resident Funnyman was up to his old tricks and a few new ones as well, adding an instant replay when one of our bullfighters took a tumble over the fence into the mudd. No one could escape Dusty that night, myself included, he made the entire crowd say hello to me! the evening was a blast, I had  a spectacular time and the best part was getting home only took an hour and a half. Considering I had to be up at 6:30 the next morning that was a great thing. Well, until next time “Heres good-bye so soon until we meet again…”

 

Mendon, IL

“Goodness, gracious, great balls of fire!” Excitement filled the air on July 26th at the Adams County fairgrounds in Mendon, IL. Mike Gillums Outlaw Productions along with 5J Bucking Bucking bulls took the audience on a “Western Thrillride.” Pyrotechnics set the evening a blaze start to finish, from the sky, to the shoots and, even the center of the arena, fire was the theme of the night. I was truly honored to be a part of such a showstopping, jaw dropping event. The evening stared off with a bang, literally, from the center of the arena. The announcer, who was on horseback, got the audience on the edge of their seats with several explosive fireworks. From there we opened by introducing the cowboys, myself on a lovely 5J pickup horse named Goldey, followed by a beautiful flag presentation done by Mike Gillum’s daughter. Funnyman “Pork Chop” was at it again, dazzeling the crowd and, making them roll with laughter over his never ending antics. Which included a new “Fountain of youth/Time Machine act.” It was hilarious! My sides hurt from laughing so hard, but I won’t tell you how it ended, you’ll have to see for yourself. It was thrills and spills all evening long, with a special surprise for the audience, myself, and I’m sure some of the bullriders, in the short go. A line of fire was set in the middle of the arena from one side to the other, adding an extra challenge for the bullriders. Not only did they have to watch their backs for bulls but, now they had to avoid becoming “extra crispy” if you know what I mean. It was quite a sight to see and definitely a first for me. Luckily everyone made it through without a hitch and a few made the 8 second whistle. This was one evening that will be ”Burned into my Memory” for a long time to come. 

Merrill, WI

“…We got a long way to go and a short time to get there…” Well, we made it to Cuba, MO and I loaded up with Seth Reynolds, Sara and Tyler Freeman, Jimmie Paric, and Curtis Seamens. From there on out it was 12 hours in the back of a pickup, laughing, singing, and of all things talking about Disney movies. Who would have thought that would have been a travel topic? It was a blast, and I’ll tell you what if Seth didn’t ride bulls he would be a great race car driver! We made excellent time and only stopped for Starbucks once! The “cheese state” was wonderful, its people were some of the nicest that I’ve ever met and the weather tuned out to be lovely, and soooo much cooler. We only had a little rain which wrapped up before anything got started. Once again a beautiful horse was graciously provided for my use  his name was Jake, and wow was he BIG! Jake is a 16.2 stocky, black and white paint. He was such a joy to ride during the opening ceremonies, I absolutely adored him! Everything was a blast, the crowd turned out to be small but, one of the most enthusiastic that I’ve seen and ever so nice! Everyone was so thankful to have the NFPB there, I can’t count the number of times someone told me thank you for coming such a long way. It was heartwarming. Comic relief for both nights was provided by 21 time Barrelman of the year Shawn “Boom Boom” Thompson and his son Tate “Tater” Thompson. “Hilarious” wouldn’t even begin to describe their nightly antics, which included a flashback with the Village People! (You have to see it to believe it!) For a change of pace, Mutton Bustin for the kids and Bull Poker for anyone brave enough to “try a hand” joined the shows list of festivities each night. While in Wisconsin I learned that cheese curds are a favorite of the NFPB staff, however I think everyone had their fill of them by the end of our trip! After the festivities wrapped up on Friday it was a quick pack up job and, saying good-bye to new and old friends. From there it was another 12 hours in a truck driving straight through the night. For this leg of my trip I rode with our President Clint Jackson and, was fortunate enough to have him answer many of my questions, about the industry and our association. It was an educational trip that I was grateful to have taken. Still never was I so glad to cross the mighty Mississippi River and see that familiar Gateway arch in St. Louis, MO, from that point it was only 45 minutes to my home and family, which I greatly missed. I can’t wait until my next event, but for now its good to back in my home town. As Dorothy always said,”There’s no place like home!”

West Plains, MO

“Westward Ho!” … well southwestward that is. This week on the 15th and 16th of July, I headed to West Plains, MO for my fifth bullride of the year. Which happens to be my first official with Jackson-Walkowe Productions. The drive was lovely and the fair was a spectacular sight. Residents of West Plains waited all year long for fairtime to come back around, and with it bringing the excitement of the NFPB Bullriding Bonanza. What a show! Some of the associations best riders were in attendance making the event even more of a thrillride.I arrived early to get caught up with friends, including Deana Cain, Tara Jackson, Frank Walkowe, and Chris Pyle, all of whom were wonderful to visit with. I also made new acquaintances with both local people and the horse I was to ride. Pleasant as always the horse I rode was named Dallas. We got along swimmingly and were even able to visit with the children in the crowd who loved petting Dallas’ long silky mane. While on the grounds I did radio interviews both evenings for local stations and answered questions about the days events. It was very exciting and quite an honor to represent the association in such a way. Once again I presented the American flag to the crowd, both evenings, and as always I was extremely proud to do so. The rest of my time was spent visiting with and getting the crowd pumped for the action. On my final night in West Plains I was to leave for the Merrill, WI show with everyone after festivities concluded for the night. However, plans changed, my ride became full and I had to head for Cuba, MO to hitch a new ride. Off we went (possibly exceeding a speed limit of two) to meet my new travel companions for the next show…”East bound and down loaded up and truckin…”