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!

Warrenton, MO

Well, Old Glory flew proudly this past Independence Day week at the Warrenton Co. fairgrounds. This week on the 3rd and 4th of July in Warrenton MO, I attended my fourth bullride of the year, which happens to be my third with the D Bar D Rodeo Co. Everything was a blast I couldn’t have asked for a more memorable way to spend our countries birthday. Things were looking a little iffy weatherwise on the third with rain clouds hovering over the arena. However I had my trusty umbrella with me and things began clearing up. The crowd was awesome and for the first time I was able to carry “the greatest flag in the world” on horseback to the playing of our national anthem. I have to say displaying Old Glory both days was one of the greatest honors of my life to date, and a memory I will always cherish. From there the evening went off without a hitch. The Bullriding action was intense as always, with comic relief coming from funnyman “Porkchop,” who kept the crowd laughing nonstop. This evening I did a 50/50 raffle to earn money for my upcoming travels. In an unexpected turn of generosity the couple who won the half of the raffle donated it back to me. I would like to take this time to thank Don and Vicki Loukes for their kind hearted act, it is and always will be greatly appreciated. The following day was beautiful, never have I seen a more pleasant July 4th, the sun shone brightly and the weather was cool, not a cloud for miles. I arrived early on the grounds and was able to take in some of the fair atmosphere. From the 4-H barn and cattle show, to pottery classes and fair queen pageants the grounds were all a buzz. The most for me however happened when I visited the childrens petting zoo. I was able to play in “the sandbox of corn” with several children. It was a really fun experience. From there I headed back to the arena and entertained the crowd with some “Cotton eyed Joe ” dance moves. I also visited with those waiting for the show to begin. I also met the new Warrenton Co. fair Rodeo Queens along with Jr. Miss Rodeo Missouri, who helped me present flags at the start of the performance. Once again I carried our nations flag and, I must say today was the most special of all. It was a surreal moment standing there proudly with those colors on this day of all days, knowing in my heart what they stand for. Later as the fair committee set off a showstopping fireworks display to music, I watched from the announcers stand and felt what it truly means to love ones country. Never have I been more proud to be an American than on that day, at that moment. To all the brave men and women who have served or are serving in our nations military, thank you, from the bottom of my heart for what you’ve done. It is because of you I can say I live in the greatest country in the world, The United States of America, and can enjoy all of the freedoms that come along with that. Again thank you and God Bless you and the USA!

Odessa, MO

“On the road again…” Well this weekend on June 28th I reached a new milestone in my Queen travels. I traveled my farthest distance from home to date, 307 miles to the quaint little town of Odessa MO. It was an eventful night. I arrived on the grounds to find that dispite the beautiful sunshine above, it had rained the night before and the arena was well, lets just say it “lacked dryness”. I’m telling you what a fish would have faired better out there than the livestock did. It was slipping and sliding for everyone all night. However that didn’t stop everyone from having a spectacular time! It was a historic evening for the Odessa Chamber of Commerce with the help of Six Crowns Rodeo Co. They celebrated their 20th anniversary. I was fortunate enough to be given the use, by Katelyn Shipshank, of a sweet little horse named Cash. He was loveley to work with and, the mud didn’t stop him from gracefully helping me present the Six Crowns Rodeo flag to the crowd at the start of the event. I also met the new Odessa Rodeo Queens, and they were lovely to visit with. I even got to help them throw T-Shirts to the crowd at intermission, of course we made the recipiants work for them, dancing and jumping up and down were frequent attempts for the shirts. Then came the Mutton Bustin… the question wasn’t if your child was going to get muddy, it was how much of that was going to be on you car seats after the ride home! The kids were amazing, they held on to those sheep til the bitter end, and when they finally hit the ground they did it with style. One boy even threw his hat at the crowd. Our “Funny Man” Dusty Meyers was a riot setting off a “Rocket” during his first act (attemping to anyway) and doing a magic act later in evening, the crowd absolutly loved him. The whole experience was a blast, but the best part was meeting up unexpectedly with friends. As it turns out Clint Jackson, Tara Jackson and Frank Walkowe brought the bulls to this event. I was so excited to see them and, it gave us the chance to catch up, while getting details for upcoming events. So now things are really starting to pick up and I can’t wait til my next appearance! As the song says ”…Just can’t wait to get on the road again.” See you down the trail!

Chester, IL

Well water, water everywhere and more to come from the weather man had to say. Fortunately the weatherman was wrong and all weekend we had beautiful skys. I attended my 2nd Bullride of the year, held in Chester Illinois, this past weekend, the 20th and 21st of June. This was my first out of state (home state, Missouri) Bullride. The event was amazing! Once again the D Bar D rodeo company held a spectacular event, along with the Randolph Co. Saddle Club, and Chester Eagles lodge, they managed to raise money for the “Make a Wish” foundation and St. Judes Research Hospital. Each night I was honored to present the D Bar D Rodeo Co. flag on horseback. I was blessed in being given the gift of the use of a horse to do so each night. The horse was a dream come true, easy to work with and a big beautiful Appaloosa. His name was Cimmeron, and he was generously provided by Neal Detering, the vice president of the saddle club, who uses Cimmeron for mounted shooting events. Not only can he be shot off of but, get this Cimmeron is a stud! Yeah, thats what I said, and I couldn’t have asked for a better horse. Carrying the flag for the first time as Miss NFPB was so thrilling and, I can’t wait to do it again. I was also lucky enough to meet former Miss NFPB 2002/Miss Rodeo Illinois 2007 Kelsea Walker. She was wonderful, and I also learned that she is an amazing Barrelracer. Mutton busting each night was a blast! The kids all did very well, I got to help get them ready and even handed out awards. On Saturday I was able to help the funnyman, Jason Farley, with the “Mexican Telephone” act. I got to be his “Lovely Assistant.” It was really fun and the crowd seemed to enjoy it. While in Chester I learned an interesting fact, Chester is the home of “Popeye” the sailerman. Let me tell ya Popeye wouldn’t have known what to do with all the water overflowing on the Mississippi River. Let’s hope he’s eating his spinach! Well, until next time, stay tuned and “Happy Trails to You!”

New Florence, MO

Hey Everyone! I just got back from my first Bullride as Miss NFPB 2008. It was an amazing experience! The event was held in New Florence, MO, June 5th and 6th. New Florence is about an hour and a half from my home, which wasn’t too bad of a trip. I was even fortunate enough to get a hotel two minutes away from the event. Talk about lucky! I was given the honor of presenting the American flag to the audience each night, which I did very proudly. I signed many autographs each night, met up unexpectedly with old friends, and even got to meet the Montgomery County Saddle Club Royalty. Not to mention getting to see some amazing Bullriding! There were even several of the contestants from this past finals. I have to say though one of the most memorable moments for me was during the first night when I helped “Tiny” the Funnyman with an act. I got to dance in front of the entire crowd blindfolded! (Those of you who were at this years finals are probably thinking De Ja Vu!) Everything went extremely well. I have to thank the entire D Bar D production staff, especially Bob and Linda Daniels, they made me feel like part of the family and I appreciate that from the bottom of my heart. Well, thats all for now! Until next time, God Bless and Cowgirl Up!!!

Cowboy Magic Lauches program to support Rodeo Queen Pageants

COWBOY MAGIC^®

Launches Innovative Program to Support

Rodeo Queen Pageants

      The COWBOY MAGIC^® company, a leading manufacturer of equine grooming products, has developed a program to benefit local and national rodeo queen pageant programs. Launched in April, the COWGIRL MAGIC^® Rodeo Queen Pageant Fundraising Program enables pageants to raise much needed funds for their operational expenses and scholarship programs by providing free products for fundraising. Each qualified participating pageant receives 100 tubes of COWGIRL MAGIC^® Pink Lady Lotion at no charge, which pageant contestants and organizers can offer in exchange for a suggested $10 donation. The program enables the pageants to raise $1,000 without any initial investment.

      The Rodeo Queen Pageant Fundraising Program has received an immediate, positive response from pageant organizers, with 19 pageants across the country signing up within the first 45 days.

      COWGIRL MAGIC^® Pink Lady Lotion was created and packaged exclusively for rodeo queen pageant fund raising. “To date, more than 2,000 tubes of Pink Lady Lotion representing a potential of $20,000 have been donated to help raise operational and scholarship funds,” says COWBOY MAGIC® Founder and CEO Jim Cummings.

      Cummings came up with the idea for the Rodeo Queen Pageant Fundraising Program after his company sponsored 2007 Miss URA Rodeo Queen Lacy Glover. “I became aware of the expenses associated with operating a rodeo queen pageant and their need to raise funds,” says Cummings. “This is a charitable way COWBOY MAGIC^® can give back to the horse community by creating a fundraising solution to satisfy a rodeo pageant’s need for additional operational and scholarship funds.”

      What appealed to Cummings were the many benefits that young girls receive by participating in their local and national rodeo pageant programs. “Once I understood the personal-development benefits that a young horsewoman can receive by participating in a rodeo queen pageant, I was sold on the idea of helping,” says Cummings.

      “Young women who compete in rodeo queen pageants benefit in a number of ways,” says Lisa Boeding, pageant director and coordinator for the Miss Rodeo Illinois Pageant. “They learn social skills and they work toward achieving personal goals they have set for themselves. They also learn what true sportsmanship is all about.”

      Says Joyce Jenson, director of the JCRA Queen Pageant: “They get out among a wide diversity of people. They learn public speaking, growth of character and life skills.”

      According to Cummings, the primary benefit of the Fundraising Program is more scholarship funds for the rodeo queen and her court. “Offering substantial educational scholarships will heighten the awareness of the general public, resulting in an increase in interest of young horsewomen in participating in the rodeo queen process,” says Cummings.

      In recent years, pageants have found it increasingly more difficult to raise funding through sponsorships due to the stiff competition for sponsorship dollars from other facets of the rodeo industry, particularly the rodeo cowboys themselves. This program provides a fundraising opportunity developed exclusively for the pageants.

            For more information about the Rodeo Queen Pageant Fundraising Program visit the COWBOY MAGIC^® website at www.cowboymagic.com. or call 1-800-755-6844.

New Website

We are currently working on a new website.  Visit it at www.MissNFPB.com and let us know what you think.

Travelin’ Time

Well summer is on it way and it is time to hit the road.  Jennifers first stop will be New Florence, MO on June 5 & 6.  Stay tuned for photos and stories on all her visits.

Miss NFPB 2008 – Jennifer Cox

Competing at the 2008 Miss NFPB Pageant was one of the greatest experiances of my life to date. Not only did I get to see some of the best Bullriders in the country compete,but I made friends and memories that I will cherish always. During the pageant I tested myself in many areas and I feel like I achomplished alot and grew as an individual. I was also blessed to compete with some of the kindest pageant contestents I have ever known. For me becoming Miss NFPB is a dream come true and I intend to do all I can to live up to the presteige that comes with such a title. Although winning the crown is amazing the most wonderful part of the entire experiance was getting to do the Special Rodeo and being able to make a difference in somones life. You really don’t know how much of an impact one moment can have until you meet such wonderful individuals.I would like to thank the entire NFPB staff for putting on such a wonderful pageant, and I look forward to an amazing year to come.