Miss Rodeo America 2009 Pageant

Elvis Visits Miss Rodeo America

The PRCA Luncheon was kicked off with showgirls and a visit from Elvis himself.   As guests enjoyed their meals one of Las Vegas' finest Elvis impersonators entertained the crowd, giving special attention to Ms. Lola Rumford, chaperone Clemie Jo Lamb and National Advisory Council member Susan Preys. 

The contestants entered the room led by two Las Vegas Showgirls.  They paraded through the tables and then up to the stage.  Once Elvis had left the building each introduced herself and told about her chap outfit. 

Emcee Tim Fuller gave a sneak peek at the auction items that would later be auctioned off, with monies raised going to the scholarship fund.  Emily Aldredge, National High School Rodeo Association Queen, was one of the guests in attendance.

Rodeo impromptu questions were then asked of each contestant.  Some of the questions were:

* What is the difference between a medical release and a turn-out?

* Explain how the Dodge Truck pick-up men are selected for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

* Name the 2004 PRCA Horse of the year and tell a little bit about the horse.

* Explain the jerk down rule.

* What punishments can occur to a PRCA member for rule infractions.

* What are the requirements for specialty acts to receive a PRCA card.

The contestants answered their questions with poise, confidence and a great deal of knowledge.

Once the contestants had answered their questions, Miss Rodeo America, Inc President Bronc Rumford introduced guests and members of the Executive Board.  PRCA Commissioner Steve Hatchell spoke on the exciting advancement of Pro Rodeo and of the PRCA's appreciation for the work Miss Rodeo America does in promoting the organization.

Tara Graham, Miss Rodeo America 2001 and representing WF Young and Absorbine, presented stock contractor Harry Vold with the Top Horse Award.  The horse, Scotty, is the all-time highest selling saddle horse at the annual WNFR bucking horse sale and was number eight in the horsemanship draw.

Mr. Vold then took over the program and put on his auctioneer hat.  Auction items included Mossy Oak clothing, a bucket of Absorbine products, a 50th Anniversary necklace and commemorative 50th Anniversary wine.

To conclude the event, Elvis came back and sang one more song for all to enjoy. 

Many thanks to the PRCA, the Mirage Hotel, the US Smokeless Tobacco Company and the Miss Rodeo Nevada Pageant for sponsoring the event.  Table prizes were sponsored by Absorbine, Montana Silversmiths and the PRCA.

Motivational Morning

Contestants, judges, chaperones and others were treated to breakfast this morning in the French Market by the Fellowship of Christian Cowboys and the Miss Rodeo New Mexico Pageant.  After filling their plates with a wide variety of foods the program began.

Laura Kessler of Florida began the session singing "God Loves You" by Chondra Pierce.  She was followed by Mike McArthur, the National Fundraising Chairman for the FCC.  Mr. McArthur spoke about being real and using the stresses and strains of life to help grow and develop character.  "We're not designed to be Lone Rangers...surround ourselves with helpful and encouraging people."  All agreed they were surrounded by many of those within the Miss Rodeo America organization.  He closed with Jeremiah 29, 11 - 13.

Miss Rodeo New Mexico State Delegate and pageant director Wilma Fulgham read a poem by New Mexico cowgirl poet Becky Lewis.  Laura then sang "I Know You Know" by Sierra.  Mrs. Fulgham presented the FCC and Laura with a plaque of appreciation from Miss Rodeo America.

Each contestant received a copy of the poem along with their own "The Way for Cowboys" bible.  Presentations were made by Mike McArthur.

Thank you again to the Fellowship of Christian Cowboys and to the Miss Rodeo New Mexico Pageant for sponsoring this morning's event.  Photos will be posted later today on http://www.ShooterEnterprises.com.

Round One of Speeches

After a motivating breakfast sponsored by the Fellowship of Christain Cowboys and the Miss Rodeo New Mexico Pageant, nine contestants presented their three minute state speech. 

The nine contestants were Meghanne Davis (Miss Rodeo Washington), Jessica Melvin (Miss Rodeo South Dakota), Kate Kennedy (Miss Rodeo Florida), Candra Allison (Miss Rodeo New Mexico), Lindy Quaney (Miss Rodeo Nebraska), Amy Jo Hubbard (Miss Rodeo Wyoming), Melissa Forester (Miss Rodeo Oregon), Selena Ulch (Miss Rodeo Nevada) and Jackie Woosley (Miss Rodeo Arkansas). 

Throughout the morning reigning Miss Rodeo America Darci Robertson related stories of her year.  Two door prize drawings were held.  Mrs. Swan from Idaho was the lucky winner of a Montana Silversmith earring and necklace set and Mrs. Zemp from Kansas is taking home an Absorbine product tote. 

Thank you to Shooter Enterprises, the official photographer for the Miss Rodeo America Pageant, for sponsoring this morning's speech session.  Look for photos to appear at http://www.ShooterEnterprises.com later today.