My roots run deep in Southeast Missouri and I’m proud to call this area home. I am a lifelong resident of Southeast Missouri, born and raised in the heart of Scott County; Blodgett, MO.
I am honored to have the opportunity to be the 2021 Chairman of the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo. This Rodeo was built on the hard work of its members and the leadership of an excellent line of past chairmen. We will continue to work hard and build on the past successes of the organization.
As a member of the Sikeston Jaycees, I have learned that when a group of people dedicated to a goal, work together, amazing things can be accomplished. The Sikeston Jaycees have accomplished projects and events that many thought were impossible. The fact that we were able to safely hold a week-long event in the middle of a pandemic is testament to this fact. Our organization was able to continue giving back to the community as we normally do even in a year like 2020.
Some of the most important missions of the Sikeston Jaycees include service to our community and giving back. Seeing firsthand the results of our efforts and what it means to the community has been personally rewarding. As a long-time patron of the rodeo, I was always aware of it being the premier event in the Bootheel. After I learned the impact the Jaycees have on the community, becoming a member was an easy decision.
I most look forward to seeing our patrons enjoying their entire experience at the Rodeo each night. A significant amount of time and effort goes into the Rodeo each year to make sure our patrons get the best entertainment package we can possibly give them. Many people do not realize that the Jaycees hold a large scale, multi-day event but we only have one employee. The rest of the workforce the puts on the event is made up of volunteers. The Jaycees you see working at our Rodeo sacrifice their own personal time all year long to make sure we can have a Rodeo in August along with our other events throughout the year. Without our fans and volunteers, the Rodeo would not be here.
The Rodeo in 2021, or any year, would not be possible without the support of our families. Every member spends a considerable amount of time making sure this Rodeo is a success while our families hold down the home front. They also understand the importance of this event to the community and afford us the time to make sure it is a success year in and year out.