July 2022
www.eptrail.com
It’s hard to put into words the feeling you get when you visit Estes Park, CO. Just a 90-minute drive from Denver, this picturesque village has an adventure for you in every season. It’s the basecamp for Rocky Mountain National Park and is home to endless adventure, epic views and your dream home away from home.
Plan Your Rocky Mountain Getaway:
VisitEstesPark.com www.VisitEstesPark.com
2 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
MONDAY-THURSDAY 8 AM - 1 PM FRIDAY-SUNDAY 7 AM - 2 PM
ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 3
Welcome to the Rooftop Rodeo! By Mark Purdy For the Trail-Gazette
H
owdy!
Welcome back to the Rooftop Rodeo, the Rodeo with Altitude! After a year away due to the worldwide pandemic in 2020, we returned last year and enjoyed the best rodeo week in our history! It remains clear that the concepts of family and community are more important now than ever. We are proud to be an important part of the Estes Valley fabric and have been Blessed to produce one of the top rodeos in the country
Rooftop Rodeo / Courtesy photo
Mark Purdy, Board Chairman & CEO, Estes Park Western Heritage, Inc.
since 1907! We want to continue to thank our incredible Sponsors for stepping up yet again, even after a 2020 that
saw their businesses challenged in every way – without them there would not be a Rooftop Rodeo. We’d also like to thank the Town of Estes Park for believing in the importance of bringing the Rooftop back despite a lot of obstacles. And finally, I’d like to personally thank our team of volunteers who work hard throughout the year to make six nights in July truly magical… This year’s Rooftop promises to be another great year thanks to the large number of contestants we’ve had enter. Our stock contractor Cervi Championship Rodeo has a lot to do with that
because of their professionalism and incredible livestock. Many of our contestants also qualify for the National Finals Rodeo each year, and some of them are World Champions in their events. Again, thank you for joining us at the 2022 Rooftop Rodeo. We invite you to join us for a moment of prayer, sing the National Anthem and get ready for two hours of the best rodeo action on Earth. Along the way, look around our arena and marvel at the incredible backdrop the Rocky Mountains offer our Town and rodeo. We are blessed to call this home and hope you can join us!
Join us at the 2022 Friends pay tribute to John Jaros Rooftop Rodeo! By Tim Mosier Trail-Gazette
ly, Jaros gave his free time to the Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department as well as y all accounts, John the Rooftop Rodeo in Estes Jaros was a loving Park. family man who priorJaros was shot and killed itized his wife and three on Saturday (June 18) afteryoung children over everynoon while driving on Interthing. When he wasn’t state 70 with his wife and See JAROS, pg. 21 spending time with his fami-
By Wendy Koenig, Mayor of Estes Park For the Trail-Gazette
B
O
n behalf of the Town of Estes Park, I am thrilled to welcome you back to watch ProRodeo’s very best compete in seven exciting events at America’s highest elevation rodeo.The Rooftop Rodeo is back and rearing to go! This year’s rodeo will feature some very special talent, including: • Ten-time Clown of the Year Justin Rumford • Two-time Music Director of the Year Josh Hambone Hilton • National Finals Rodeo Announcer Andy Seiler • National Finals Rodeo photographers Steve Gray Photo and Avid Visual Imagery Rodeo • 2016 Pickup man of the
Mayor Wendy Koenig
Year and five-time National Finals Rodeo Pickup man Chase Cervi • Miss Rodeo America Hailey Frederiksen • Miss Rodeo Colorado Ashley Baller • Rooftop Rodeo Queen Amelia Westley Theme nights at this year’s rodeo include Military appreciation, Family Night, Locals Night, First Responder Appreciation,
4 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
See KOENIG, pg. 10
INSIDE
2022 Rodeo Schedule ............................................................ 6 Andy Seiler makes all the right calls .......................................... 6 What happened to the stolen goat? ...........................................7 Cervi partners with Rooftop ......................................................8 Frederiksen returns to Rooftop ..................................................9 Rooftop Royalty ..................................................................... 10 Meet the Rooftop Royalty ....................................................... 11 Crowns for Care benefits EPH .................................................14 YMCA of the Rockies, at the doorstep to RMNP ........................15 Behind the chutes ................................................................. 16 Mutton Bustin ....................................................................... 16 Cash Catch ...........................................................................17 Rodeo to honor Western legend ..............................................18 An outlaw approach to rodeo .................................................. 20 Ride-A-Kart – a family tradition ................................................ 22
John Jaros joined the Rooftop Rodeo Committee in 2008 and served in many capacities, including gate puller, mutton bustin’ wrangler, organizer of our Cowboy Church services, and was also a Sponsor. He was a larger-than-life character who helped anyone that needed it and was also proudly active in the Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department. He was a devout family man, and that’s how he would want to be remembered. We urge everyone who reads this to please help us support his wife Katie and their 3 kids. https://gofund.me/a542a533
- Mark Purdy, Rooftop Rodeo Chairman ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 5
2022 Rodeo schedule By Trail-Gazette Staff
R
ooftop Rodeo is an award winning rodeo with real PRCA cowboys and cowgirls from around the west. This fun-filled week of rodeo starts on July 6, with by six days of rodeo action. The big parade through downtown Estes Park will be July 7 at 10:30 a.m. Gates at the Fairgrounds Arena open at 5 p.m. with a Behind the Chutes Tour. Get your tickets early because these tours sell out. The show kicks off at 6:30 p.m. and rodeo events at 7 p.m. Watch bareback and saddle Jan Rigby / Courtesy photo bronc riding, tie down ropWatch bareback and saddle bronc riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel ing, steer wrestling, team racing and bull riding. roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Pink Night. Show your suptheir families pay $12 per per- tors…both animals and cowTHEME NIGHTS port for breast cancer aware- son. ID required. boys/cowgirls. The Rooftop Wednesday, July 6: Openness and research. Rodeo has been the winner The Rooftop Rodeo is preing Night Sunday, July 10: Military sented by the Town of Estes of Best Small Rodeo of the Thursday, July 7: Family Appreciation Night, Military Park, in Partnership with the year and nominated for Best Night, Children 3-12 are just & their families pay $12 per Estes Park Western Heritage Medium Sized Rodeo. Please $5 each. person. ID required. visit the official Rooftop Inc. Known as “the rodeo Friday, July 8: Fiesta at the Monday, July 11: Locals & with altitude,” this annual six- Rodeo website for a complete Rodeo, Fiesta themed live rodeo week schedule, ticket First Responders Night, day rodeo features the Promusic. sales and other event inforLocals receive a 25% disfessional Rodeo Cowboy’s count. First Responders and Association best competimation. Saturday, July 9: Wear
Andy Seiler makes all the right calls
By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
L
ike every young cowboy with gold-buckle dreams, Andy Seiler spent much of his youth swinging a rope. His family took notice. So did others. “My grandfather told me a long time when I had a rope in my hand that the rope was going to put me on TV
one day,” said Seiler, who will return to the Rocky Mountains to call the action at Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 6-Monday, July 11, at Granny May Arena in Estes Park inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds. His grandfather was right, just not the way Seiler had envisioned. His dream was to be one of the best cowboys in the game, a top-tier
6 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
roper competing on the biggest stages of rodeo. Instead, he’s one of the elite announcers in ProRodeo and has been featured on national telecasts of RodeoHouston and the National Finals Rodeo. His voice has also been highlighted on worldwide coverage of Rooftop Rodeo through The Cowboy Channel, so he has definitely utilized that young-man’s rope
to be at the epicenter of the sport he loves. “My dad team roped, primarily in the circuit, and my mom competed in high school rodeo,” said Seiler, who lives in Ocala, Florida with his wife, Lauren; son, Welles; and daughter, Rory. “My mom’s family had a cow-calf operation, and she grew up on a chicken farm. My dad didn’t get into rodeo See SEILER, pg. 19
What happened to the stolen goat? By Daniel Sewell
Trading Post of the Rockies. Estes Park Trail-Gazette The goat was made of metal and hung from a chain that was held by the teeth of a t was the night before T-Rex. Reminiscent of the New Years Eve last original Jurassic Park scene Dec., the day had been incredibly windy, in Boulder when the goat is lowered into the cage; at the entrance to a fire ignited a neighborthe parking lot the T-Rex hood, and in Estes Park a blizzard swept through town, seemed to be celebrating it’s prize, like all the fortunate property damage was unbelievable but imagine the situ- customers who stop in to shop the store’s extensive ation getting worse finding collections. yourself victim to vandalism as well. It had been hung with care only seven months earlier The elements causing chawhen The Twisted Pine was os apparently goaded a personal pursuit by one who rev- adopted by Aaron and Michelle Sidransky and eled in the destruction. changed to The Trading Post Knowing those whom would of the Rockies. Now just days put up protest were surely after Christmas, the goat was protecting themselves, this gone. entitled thief unwittingly or not took a treasure of notoriWhen they returned to ety – the hung goat at The their store the next day the
I
T-Rex was sideways, clearly blown over from its position, the hanging wood sign was either snatched or smashed to smithereens, and numerous wall art decorations were scattered down the road, with a few falling into the river. Aaron recounted the next day, “I was expecting things to be scattered by the gale force winds, luckily it wasn’t too bad, of course I also spent the entire day cleaning up the debris! At first, I must have been too in shock to notice, but after we tipped Mat-T-Rex back upright we realized The Hung Goat was gone. It was really upsetting because that was a one-of-akind goat that I welded the chain on to… I guess we could’ve welded it to the
teeth too but the thing weighed like a buck twenty so I really didn’t think the wind would shake it; but what happened was the bolts that held big Rex down pulled out of the ground and the wind made it all fall down from it’s place on the raised divider. Like that the goat was laying right by the road and some slick prick in a grey Toyota truck just stopped and dead lifted it into the back and just kept trucking.”
To make matters worse the security cameras outside were blown sideways too so the only footage of the crime was from an interior camera that had a view of the street through a window, from across the room; suffice to See GOAT, pg. 14
HATS • BELTS • WALLETS • LEATHER 450 Moraine Ave. JEWELRY • RUGS • DECOR • AND MORE! 970-373-0770 ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 7
Phillip Kitts / Courtesy photo
The Cervi name is a longstanding tradition in professional rodeo.
Cervi partners with Rooftop By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
Park to produce the annual rodeo. “We’d had our stock contractor a long time, but he foundation for Estes we were excited to see the change. Park’s rodeo was “Since then, though, it’s founded six decades more than the Cervis being ago on the Plains of northour stock contractor. We’ve eastern Colorado by entredeveloped a great relationpreneur Mike Cervi. ship with them, and we trust Over much of the past them to not only provide the decade, Cervi Championship stock for us but also produce Rodeo is an incredible parta rodeo we can be proud of ner for Rooftop Rodeo, set for and we can share with our 7 p.m. Wednesday, July visitors year after year.” 6-Monday, July 11, at Granny As the company’s patriMay Arena in Estes Park arch, Mike Cervi was inductinside the Estes Park Faired into the ProRodeo Hall of grounds. Now operated by Fame in 2003 and into the his sons, Binion and Chase, National Cowboy & Western the Cervi firm is a key part of Heritage Museum in 2015. the Rooftop experience. By the 1950s, he had devel“The town of Estes Park oped a trained mule act and named Cervi Championship was performing at Little Rodeo as our stock contracBritches and junior rodeos. tor several years ago, and it Twice he was named the was a bit of a changing of the PRCA’s Stock Contractor of guard for us,” said Mark the Year. Purdy, chairman of Estes Binion Cervi now serves as Park Western Heritage Inc., the firm’s executive director, a group of volunteers that and he’s the direct contact works with the town of Estes for committees like the one
T
8 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
in Estes Park. He heads the production of the rodeos and oversees the company’s breeding program, which is set up to continue the sustainability of the Cervi’s Circle I brand. In fact, many of the Cervi colts are bucked at the firm’s Ace High Roughstock Academy events, which not only help train the young equine athletes but also offers tutelage to up-and-coming cowboys eager to learn how to better their skills in order to one day compete against the very best ProRodeo cowboys have to offer. “Because the Cervi Ranch is not far down the mountain from us, we are able to go as a group to those schools and help out any way we can,” Purdy said. “It’s our way to get together and help give back to our friends and also open the door for future Rooftop Rodeo contestants.” The Cervi name is a longstanding tradition in profes-
sional rodeo. The company produces the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver as well as RodeoHouston, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo and many others across the country. At each rodeo, Binion serves as the arena master, the orchestra leader who makes sure everything is run smooth. Chase helps by serving as a pickup man – he’s been named the best in the business twice since the Pickup Man of the Year award was established – and helps ensure the animals are treated with the best care possible. “What we’ve gained over the last few years is a true partnership with Cervi Championship Rodeo,” Purdy said. “Chase and Binion are more than our stock contractors. Along with their families, they are our friends, and we are proud that they are a big part of the Rooftop family.”
Frederiksen returns to Rooftop By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
B
efore she was Miss Rodeo America … Before she was Miss Rodeo Colorado … Hailey Frederiksen was just a girl who grew up on a ranch along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains just on the east side of Interstate 25. She was involved in 4H for nearly a dozen years, showing sheep. She grew up making the cloverleaf pattern in barrel racing like her mother did and watching her father team rope. Caring for animals and caring for others is in her blood, and she’s passionate about rodeo. She will return to this year’s Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 6-Monday, July 11, at
Art of Aperture Photography / Courtesy photo
Hailey Frederiksen was just a girl who grew up on a ranch along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains just on the east side of Interstate 25.
Granny May Arena in Estes Park inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds. “Growing up in this Western lifestyle has taught me this work ethic, has taught
me this passion,” said Frederiksen, who is originally from Platteville, Colorado, now living in Wellington, Colorado. “I couldn’t imagine living any other way.”
She is the first member of her family to graduate from college, earning a bachelor’s degree in animal science with a minor in agriculture business from Colorado State University. She is in the middle of her reign, then she plans to return to school to get her master’s degree in agricultural communications. Frederiksen was crowned Miss Rodeo America during the pageant this past December Las Vegas, which took place in conjunction with the National Finals Rodeo. She is spending this year as the sport’s biggest ambassador, and in the process, she will revisit some of her favorite rodeos and locations. Having grown up just 45 miles away, Estes Park is one of those.
See FREDERIKSEN, pg. 10
Strengthen our future by embracing tra aditions.
THAT’S THINKING OUTSIDE THE BANK. These are the ones who define the Colorado spirit. We’re proud to be the community bank that’s helped them live that way for over forty years. Because we’re not just a bank in Colorado, we’re Bank of Colorado.
BankOfColorado.com/ThinkOutside ESTES PARK 533 Big Thompson Ave., 970.586.8185
PROUD TO SUPPORT THE ESTES PARK ROOFTOP RODEO ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 9
Rooftop Royalty By Rooftop Rodeo
and other events throughout the year. For more information about our royalty program please contact the Rooftop royalty coordinator and Chairperson, Holly, at royalty@rooftoprodeo.com .
For the Trail-Gazette
What is the Rooftop Rodeo Royalty Program?
T
he Rooftop Royalty is a youth development program for boys and girls ages 9 and 25 to preserve rodeo and the western way of life in the town of Estes Park. The royalty program provides a unique opportunity to cultivate an atmosphere for youth development while representing organizations such as the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), the Rooftop Rodeo, and the Town of Estes Park. Girls and boys involved in the program work behind the scenes to promote the rodeo all while developing communication skills, speech and interview
Want to have the Rooftop Rodeo Queen and Attendant attend your next event?
Rooftop Rodeo / Courtesy photo
The Royalty will promote western heritage throughout Estes Park, during rodeo week, and other events throughout the year.
skills, and valuable skills which will aid them through school and beyond. The Roy-
alty will promote western heritage throughout Estes Park, during rodeo week,
Frederiksen from page 9
“I am a rodeo queen dad, and I am always excited to have rodeo royalty come to the Rooftop,” said Mark Purdy, chairman of Estes Park Western Heritage Inc., a group of volunteers that works with the town of Estes Park to produce the annual rodeo. “Hailey is a delight to be around, and we are excited to welcome her back to Estes Park any time she wants to come. “For me, it’s always a special event when a Colorado lady wins Miss Rodeo America. We are excited to honor Hailey for her work and her successes.” Because of the nationwide pandemic, Frederiksen served two terms as Miss
Rodeo Colorado. There were no pageants in 2020, so she served a limited role that year; she was a little busier in 2021, making her way to PRCA rodeos across the state and across the country representing her state and the sport. There is excitement that the country is coming back to more normalcy, and it helps her fulfill her duties with honor as Miss Rodeo America. “Winning the Miss Rodeo America pageant has been a dream come true and so much more,” she said. “I’ve met Miss Rodeo Americas throughout the years, and I just looked a them and could imagine that being
10 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
The Rooftop Rodeo Queen and Attendant love to give back and help the community by traveling to other Rodeos, Fairs and Parades promoting rodeo and the western way of life. If you would like them to speak at your club, organization, or invite them to your next event please send an email to Holly at royalty@rooftoprodeo.com to schedule an appearance. We would love to hear from you.
Koenig myself. I find myself pinching myself to see if this is real. I still can’t believe it.” Her honor comes from the way she was raised and the people she’s met along her path in life. It’s what’s enabled her to be at the top of her own mountain and celebrate it in the sport she loves with the people who helped make it happen. “I believe I’ve put in the work for it,” Frederiksen said. “It’s a lot more than hair, makeup and rhinestones. We’re cowgirls. I tell young girls who want to do this, ‘Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.’ ” Hailey Frederiksen isn’t, and it’s why she wears the tiara.
from page 4
Fiesta at the Rodeo, and Wear Pink! Donations will benefit local charities including the American Legion, Ashley Doolittle Foundation, Special Olympics, Estes Valley Crisis Advocates and Estes Park Health. Learn more at www.rooftoprodeo.com. Finally, the Rooftop wouldn’t be here for us all to enjoy if it weren’t for all the participants, staff and volunteers who work countless hours behind the chutes. If you have the opportunity, join me in tipping your hat in appreciation for their tireless efforts on behalf of our community.
Meet the Rooftop Royalty By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
Queen Amelia Westley
H
ello there! I am Amelia Westley, and I am excited and honored to be your 2022 Rooftop Rodeo Queen! My parents are Debbie and the late Greg Westley. I was born and raised in beautiful Estes Park, Colorado. I have six brothers, one sister, a lazy Bernese, a crazy Golden Mountain dog, and amazing friends. Thank you all for your support and encouragement! I am a college freshman majoring in Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management and play on Central Wyoming’s collegiate soccer team. I am also an avid outdoor enthusiast enjoying skiing, kayaking, and camping. I am willing to try almost anything once! I have always had a love of horses; however, it was the kindred spirit of a dear friend and horse that brought me into the rodeo family and their welcoming atmosphere. I am proud to be a first-generation cowgirl! I’ll be riding good old Pony, a quarter horse who does things his way and Richard, a mellow mustang with a touch of spunk. Adventures await, and I look forward to represent-
Queen Amelia Westley
Rooftop Rodeo / Courtesy photo
Rooftop Rodeo / Courtesy photo
Attendant Halley Moak
age to competitive riding the past five years on the Colorado Hunter Jumper Association circuit, horses have been an integral part of my daily life. My interaction with horses has taught me a great deal about humility, patience and how sacrifice should be valued. It is so humbling to train with an animal who allows me to be taught while it is being My equine interests Attendant Halley Moak trained. will continue as I attend MidHowdy, Partner! Greetings way University in the Lexingfrom Halley Moak, your 2022 ton, Kentucky area where I Rooftop Rodeo Attendant. I will double major in Equine always tell people that I have Rehabilitation and Equine “horse DNA” because I live Management while I ride on and breathe everything the varsity hunt seat team for equestrian. From my first the Midway Eagles. I have pony ride at twelve months of attended the Rooftop Rodeo ing the spirit and thrill of rodeo as well as the western lifestyle throughout the coming year! I hope to spread the messages of dreaming big, believing in yourself, and turning life’s challenges into positive outcomes. Faith, family, and friends are what rodeo is all about, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as your 2022 Estes Park Rooftop Rodeo Queen!
for 18 years and have grown up in their royalty program. I am profoundly grateful to have learned so much about the fabulous sport of rodeo and to have met so many special people who populate the sport. My hope is to spread the joy of rodeo to others along this ride, and to lend support to our fantastic Rooftop Rodeo Committee in promoting the Rodeo with Altitude! With the ever faithful Quarter Horse paint, Denver, at my side, I am excited to live out one of my favorite Bible verses which is found in Jeremiah 29:11…”For I know the plans I have for you…” For one to fly, one needs only to take the reins!
Instant Photos Print your photos in-store! 4x6 • 4x8 • 5x7 • 8x10 • 8x12 In store kiosk accepts images from: CD • SD • USB • iPhone • Android • Online
ROCKY MOUNTAIN PHARMACY 970-586-5577 | Next to Safeway www.RockyMountainPharmacy.com ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 11
WE SERVICE ALL Diesel Engine MAKES & Synthetic Lube, MODELS! Oil & Filter with ONLY
Tire Rotation
174.95
$
*Most Light Duty Diesel Trucks. Duall wh heell truck ks ad dditionall Expires 9/30/22
Gasoline Engine Synthetic Lube, Oil & Filter With Tire Rotation ONLY
64.95
$
*Up to 5 qts, most vehicles Expires 9/30/22
PRESTIGE ROOFTOP RODEO CORPORATE SPONSOR.
Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
PRESTIGEDODGE.COM East 3rd Avenue in Longmont 12 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
303-219-1154
Weekdays Until 9pm • Sat. Until 8pm
BUSiNeSSLiNK DeALerS StocK tHe rigHt commerciAL VeHicLeS For YoUr BUSiNeSS
NEW 2018 2500PROMASTER PROMASTER NEW 2022RAM RAM 1500 CARGO136 VAN HIGH LOW ROOF CARGO ROOF
#34244 Off Road Group, Level 2 Equipment Group, 8-Speed Automatic Transmission, 5.7L V8 HEMI Engine
#34591 6-Speed Automatic Transmission, 3.6L V6 Engine
MSRP:
MSRP:
$36,895
PRESTIGE PRICE:
$32,749
DEALER INCENTIVE:
-$2,750
$ ** ** 29,995 ORDER TODAY FOR 38,975
$
NEW 2018 RAM 3500
NEW 2022 RAMCAB 2500 TRADESMAN CREW 4X4 REG CAB 4X4
$43,195
-$9,949
** 34,950 $ ** ORDER TODAY FOR 29,875 $
NEW 2018 RAM 3500 NEW 2022 RAMCHASSIS 3500 REG CAB CREW CAB 4X4 CAHSSIS 4X2
$53,315
DEALER INCENTIVE:
-$4,750
$ **
DEALER INCENTIVE:
PRESTIGE PRICE:
$50,,065
ORDER 38,445 TODAY FOR 43,970 $
$44,899
DEALER INCENTIVE:
MSRP:
MSRP:
PRESTIGE PRICE:
$49,745
PRESTIGE PRICE:
#33803 Max Tow Package, AISIN 6-Speed Automatic Transmission, 6.7L I6 Cummins Turbo Diesel Engine, Trailer Brake Control
#33967 5th Wheel/ Gooseneck Towing Prep Group, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
$48,445
NEW RAM 1500 NEW 20222019 RAM 1500 TRADESMAN REGCREW CAB 4X2CAB 4X4 BIGHORN
**
-$3,750
46,315 ORDER TODAY FOR 40,975 $
$
**
**
PreStigeDoDge.com SE HABLA ESPAÑOL
East 3rd Avenue in Longmont
303-219-1154
Weekdays Until 9pm • Sat. Until 8pm
**All prices include $593.62 D&H, all prices plus tax and applicable fees, W.A.C. Dealer retains all rebates. Photos for illustration only. Must finance with Chrysler Financial. Must be business owner. Expires 9/30/22
ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 13
Crowns for Care benefits EPH
By Tami Scace For the Trail-Gazette
W
hen I was crowned Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo in 2019, I was so proud to raise funds to bring 3D Mammography Services to Estes Park Health. I never imagined that two years later, during a worldwide pandemic, I would hold my husband’s hand while he received chemotherapy infusions. Since winning Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo in 2019, I’ve volunteered on the Crowns for the Care Committee at Estes Park Health Foundation, where I’m also a Board Director. Crowns for the Care is a fundraising competition that raises money to improve
EPH Foundation / Courtesy photo
Tami and Dan Scace
Oncology Services at Estes Park Health and culminates in Pink Night at the Rooftop Rodeo on Saturday, July 9. This year, five women are competing for the title of Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo by rais-
ESTES PARK BREWERY • Delicious Food • 12+ Hand-Crafted Brews • Pool Table & Video Games • Scenic Overlook • Brewer’s Souvenirs
Open at 11:00am Daily 470 Prospect Avenue (970) 586-5421 www.epbrewery.com 14 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
ing money toward this initiative: Joy Gilmar, Bethany Heun, Lesta Johnson, Emily Rayman, and Jenny Roberts. In addition to volunteering on the Crowns for the Care Committee and EPH Foundation Board, I’m navigating cancer treatment for my husband, Dan. In 2020, chemotherapy services at EPH closed due to staffing. In May of 2022, chemotherapy services at EPH opened again, and hospital leadership ensured redundancy in staffing so this service line will remain intact. After eight months of driving with Dan down to the Valley to sit in an uncomfortable chair while he received infusions lasting hours, I am so grateful chemo is now available in my community, and I am proud to work on this initiative to raise money to make the following improvements to EPH’s Infusion Center: • Increasing the Number of Infusion Stations from Five to Eight. • Funding Partition Curtains for Each Infusion Sta-
tion to Increase Patient Privacy. • Providing Medical-Grade Tables for Each Station for Use by Patients and Infusion Technicians. • Providing a Padded Guest Chair for Each Station. • Providing an iPad with Headphones for Each Station for Patient Use. Will you join me? 100% of every penny donated to Crowns for the Care goes directly toward making EPH’s Infusion Center better. You can donate at www.GivetoEPH.org/crowns. Be sure to note the name of the candidate (Joy Gilmar, Bethany Heun, Lesta Johnson, Emily Rayman, or Jenny Roberts) you’d like to win the title of Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo in the Comments Box of the online donation form. To learn more about Crowns for the Care, visit www.GivetoEPH.org/pink. As a person on the frontlines of a cancer diagnosis, I thank you in advance for your support for Oncology Services at Estes Park Health.
Goat from page 7 say the evidence was inconclusive. Any tips that may lead to the prosecution of this vandal should be logged with the local EPPD. And Aaron prays the great spirit may move the goat back home; suspecting the goat-snagging scoundrel may bore of the score simply because of the inherent nature of one entitled to thievery. If one were to return the goat it would be great to have it back by this year’s Rooftop Rodeo, as the goat’s image is
in The Trading Post of the Rockies sponsorship ad and we really can’t run it like that when there’s no goat; at the least it’s confusing and at the worst it’s depressing. Plus, Aaron already had a plan to light the goat like a lantern so The Hung Goat could be a shining cairn or The Trading Post. And if this sparks the stealer’s consciousness to see that the goat is right where it was intended to be then maybe they’re worthy of the term trickster, indeed.
YMCA of the Rockies, at the doorstep to RMNP By YMCA of the Rockies For the Trail-Gazette
of trips into Rocky Mountain National Park. Don’t forget your furry friend! Although pets are not he YMCA of the Rockallowed on trails within ies property, surroundRocky Mountain National ed on three sides by Park, YMCA of the Rockies Rocky Mountain National offers miles of hiking trails Park, offers peaceful mounon the YMCA property with tain getaways where guests views of Longs Peak and the are welcome to explore, Mummy Range. Dogs are adventure and stay adjacent welcome in select cabins and to the park. Cabins feature lodge rooms and invited to stunning views, family-friendYMCA of the Rockies / Courtesy photo play off-leash at the on-site ly floor plans, and large wellElk graze on the grounds of the YMCA of the Rockies. dog park featuring agility staequipped kitchens. Lodge tions, a water fountain and rooms are hotel-style, shade shelter. offers more on-site activities the splendor and beauty of include two free breakfasts YMCA of the Rockies lodgthan any other property in the area. Join a “hikemaster” and are within walking dising reservations are availEstes Park, making a stay at for a guided hike or saddle tance to most activities. up and take a horseback ride able online at ymcarockLodging includes pet-friendly the “Y” a win for the family budget. Many activities take with Jackson Stables, conve- ies.org or by calling the options and WiFi for those guests into Rocky Mountain niently located at the YMCA reservation department looking to work remotely. National Park to experience property. Both take a variety at 888-613-9622. YMCA of the Rockies
T
ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 15
Mutton Bustin
By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
available beginning at 5 p.m. each night just inside the ticket gate. All applications received (online or in person) very night of the prior to 6 p.m. each night will rodeo, 10 lucky cowboys and cowgirls will be entered into the lottery, have a chance to compete in and the four winning names will be drawn at 6 p.m. that the exciting sport of mutton night. If you have preregisbustin. Six spots each night tered or entered the lottery are offered to the first six online, you are required to kids to fill out an application check in at the mutton bustin for that night. To apply for table no later than 5:30 p.m. one of these spots for your on event night to keep your child, please fill out this spot, no exceptions. If your online application form at child’s name is drawn, you https://dms.estes.org/ will be notified via cell phone Forms/2022muttonbustin. The remaining four contes- shortly after 6 p.m. Rooftop Rodeo / Courtesy photo Your chances of being cho- Mutton busting is an event held at rodeos similar to bull riding tants each night are chosen sen for the lottery are the via a lottery. To enter your or bronc riding, in which children ride sheep. child’s name in the lottery for same whether you fill out the a given night, you may either online application or the intance. Please note that all Please make sure your fill out the application above, person application. child has no open toed shoes family members, including or fill out an application in Event Details for the event. (i.e. flip flops) the contestant, need a ticket person the night of the event. Entry Fee: Pre-registration Contestants must wear helto the rodeo itself in order to In-person applications will be $30 due at time of accepmet, vest and number providparticipate and watch. ed. Long sleeves and long Entry Fee: Lottery-regispants recommended. tration $30 cash only, night Craft Beer - Fine Wines - Champagne of, if your name is drawn. (No Preregistered contestants should check-in at the Fairfee collected if your child is Large Selection of Spirits & not one of the 10 contestants) grounds no later than 5:30 p.m. Arrival after that will Colorado Products Sign Up: In person (5 – 6 p.m. each night of the rodeo, result in your child being July 5-10), or online using the removed from the event and spot given to a lottery selecform tion. Time: The rodeo starts at 7 $30 cash entry fee is due at p.m. each night. Mutton Buscheck-in. No refunds. tin takes place in the middle Check-in site is just beyond of the rodeo the ticket offices at the main Contact: For more informagate. tion, contact Town of Estes Must provide a working Park events staff at 970-586cell number night of the 6104 or events@estes.org event. Guidelines The number of contestants Ages: 5 – 8 is limited to 10 each night. Weight: 55 lbs. and under Missed Pre-Registrations? day of the event. You can still sign up for a Children will be weighed chance at the lottery the during check in registration night of the event. 1640 Big Thompson Avenue in the clothes they will ride Free Registration at the (Highway 34) Estes Park, CO with. mutton bustin table from 5 Children are allowed to p.m. to 6 p.m. hold to the sheep with their Your child must meet all ramboslonghornliquor.com hands only. No other devices the guidelines above and may be used, i.e. ropes or names will be drawn after 6 DRINK RESPONSIBLY spurs. p.m. the night of the event.
E
970-586-8583
16 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
Behind the chutes Get an up close and personal tour of the arena equipment, participate in some mock events, see the livestock and meet the clowns.
By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
B
ehind the Chutes is your chance to venture out to where all the action happens. You’ll meet the stock contractor, contestants and arena crew who will explain the sport of rodeo. Get an up close and personal tour of the arena equipment, participate in some mock events, see the livestock and meet the clowns. It’s a great time to ask questions and to learn more about the sport of rodeo from the pros themselves. Tours are available at 5 p.m. Tickets for the rodeo can be purchased online prior to rodeo week on the Rooftop Rodeo Tickets page. Already have your rodeo ticket? You can purchase Behind
Rooftop Rodeo / Estes Park Trail-Gazette
the Chutes tour tickets in advance along with your rodeo general admission tickets at the link below. If you have a party of 20 or more, we may be able to arrange a special tour for your group. Call 970.577.3920 for more information. Please note that the tour will take you through areas of thick, loose dirt (sometimes mud),
1110 Woodstock Dr | Sinclair Gas Station | Hwy 7 970-586-1614
so please wear appropriate shoes. Flip flops or expensive shoes are probably not a good idea! After your tour, grab that tasty chow and a cool beverage, meet old and new friends, and settle in for a great Rooftop Rodeo evening! Get tickets at https:// ci.ovationtix.com/35551/production/1119277.
Cash Catch By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
T
his highly exciting event for kids is as much fun to watch, as it is to participate. Thursday, July 7 – Saturday, July 9! • The object is to remove the $5 from the sheep’s back. • Contestants must be 8 to 12 years old. • Parents must sign the Entry/Waiver Form (available below or at the event) • Contestants check-in at the Mutton Bustin’ booth inside the main gate. • The number of contestants is limited to 100 each evening. • Contestants plus family members must purchase tickets to the rodeo.
La Cocina de Mama MEXICAN FOOD & CANTINA Hours: 9 am - 9 pm
Breakfast All Day HOURS: 6 AM - 11 PM
LUNCH DINNER Order to-g go: (97 70) 586-9 9001 361 S. Saint Vrain Ave. www.lac cocinad dmam ma.c c om ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 17
Rodeo to honor Western legend
By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
R
on Ball live a full life of being a servant to others. After graduation from South High School in Denver, he served in the United States Marine Corps. He wrapped up his stint while living in California, then served in the Los Angeles Police Department, retiring as a detective sergeant after 20 years. He promptly returned to Colorado and gathered with the people in and around Estes Park for 36 years before his death last summer. Whether he was a cowboy singer, a Western artist, a Rooftop Rodeo Rider or an organizer with the annual rodeo, he was always serving others and showing his passion for the Western lifestyle. “Ron did a lot for our rodeo,” said Holly Spreitzer, a former Miss Rooftop Rodeo and a member of Estes Park Western Heritage Inc., a group of volunteers that works with the town of Estes Park to produce the annual rodeo. “He was so into putting into the community and into our rodeo.” His life and legacy will be honored at this year’s Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 6-Monday, July 11, at Granny May Arena in Estes Park inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds. His memorial will take place during Military Night on Sunday, July 10. “I met Ron in 2015, and it was one of my first years I attended Rooftop Rodeo,” said Spreitzer, who helped plan his funeral last August and is organizing the memorial. “He definitely made an impression. He was a fan of Roy Rogers, and he reminded me a lot of Roy Rogers
Cody Klein / Courtesy photo
Holly Sprietzer carries the American flag on Ron Ball’s horse, Trigger, named after the famous horse ridden by Roy Rogers, during the opening of one of the performances of last year’s Rooftop Rodeo. Ball, who died a few weeks later, stands and salutes from the stands at left.
when I saw him dressed up in his outfits during the rodeo. “I was inspired by Dale Evans for my rodeo queen outfits. We had an immediate connection. That year I got to sing with him. He did a concert every year, and I got to meet him and his wife. I got to know them and spend a lot of time with them. I got to learn about his story and how he got involved with things, especially with our rodeo in Estes.” Whether he was serving in the Marine Corps or trying to solve crimes in L.A., Ball was always a cowboy singer and Western artist at heart. As a youngster, his love of being a singer, artist and cowboy pointed him in that direction. He got his first wrangling job at age 13, but he’d attended the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo three years before that. The fire had been lit, and years of sharing his passions
18 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
with others just continued to stoke the flames. Being friends with Roy Rogers and having sung with him and the Sons of the Pioneers was a highlight of his life, as was the extension of that when Rogers’ son, Roy “Dusty” Rogers Jr., asked Ball to sing at the family’s museum and theater in Branson, Missouri. During his own Western shows, Ball paid tribute to Rogers with music and stories. He also dressed the part. “He’d been fascinated by the Western industry,” Spreitzer said. “His grandmother was an artist who did the exhibits in the Denver museum. When he was a kid, he would help her paint and design them. He was always interested in art and music. “When he was in California, he got to know a lot of people, and one of those was Roy Rogers. He was a big fan and became one of his personal friends. Throughout the years, he really wanted to
portray the Western industry and all it stood for. Roy even gifted him a few items, and that really meant a lot to Ron. When he moved to Estes Park after his career with the LAPD, he wanted to keep the Western industry alive, and he always kept up with it.” He maintained contact with other Western artists and created a Western art show in Estes Park. He invited them to be part of the community. Spreitzer’s relationship with Ball and his wife, Janie, was strong. She considered him to be another grandfather in her life, and she adored their relationship. Celebrating him is an honor she won’t forget. “No matter how big Estes Park grew, he was one of the people who made sure we remembered our Western roots and how Estes Park was a big, wholesome community,” she said. “Everything that Ron did was with the idea of being a helping hand.”
Seiler from page 6
until he tried to ride some bulls in high school. When he started dating my mom, he started roping a little bit.” That’s how this rodeo bug started for Seiler. In 2004, he won the National High School Finals Rodeo championship, then took his competitive streak to Troy (Alabama) University, where he was a three-time qualifier to the College National Finals Rodeo. He may have made it a fourth year, but he turned his attention to announcing instead. “In 2008, I did a really terrible job, and my coach told me to ask if I could announce with Boyd (Polhamus, a senior statesman among announcers),” he said. “That would be my first professional performance. I announced Thursday and Friday nights, then they said I did a good enough job to do the short round. “The next weekend, I was in Glenwood City, Wisconsin, announcing that rodeo.” In the fantasy world, he would love to say he never looked back; fantasies aren’t real. Life happens. After three years announcing rodeos and living his dream, Seiler hung up his microphone and went back to Ocala and found work that helped him pay the bills. “Then Boyd called me in
Greg Westfall / Courtesy photo
Andy Seiler is the voice of the Rooftop Rodeo in Estes Park.
2013 and told me that they were looking for a third announcer in Houston,” said Seiler, who was selected as one of three announcers at the 2020 National Finals Rodeo. “That’s what got me back into it. I started Houston in 2014. That’s been one of those things that I think God puts in there for you. It’s your responsibility that even if this doesn’t make sense, I needed to follow His path. “It’s led to a lot of other things along the way.”
That includes his association with Rooftop Rodeo, and the relationship continues to blossom year after year. “We appreciate what Andy Seiler brings to our rodeo,” said Mark Purdy, chairman of Estes Park Western Heritage Inc., a group of volunteers that works with the town of Estes Park to produce the annual rodeo. “When we changed stock contractors to Cervi Championship Rodeo in 2014, Binion (Cervi) told us he knew
an up-and-coming announcer that would be a good fit for the Rooftop; as usual, he was right. “From the first year he worked our rodeo, we knew Andy would be a great fit. The way he addresses our crowd is amazing and helps make each night a great one for the people that come. He makes it special for each of them, and that, in turn, makes it special for us.” The people in Estes Park return the favor. Rooftop Rodeo is such an exceptional experience that Seiler flies his wife and children in to be part of it. It’s one of two rodeos they go to each year, with the other being a few days in Houston in March. “Rooftop Rodeo will always have a special place in my heart,” Seiler said. “They had made a change, and it was very different for them to do, but they were very endearing to me from the start. “They have always been like family to me. They don’t call people who come to the rodeo fans; they call them guests. It’s an event that people circle on their calendars. If you’re on vacation and looking for a home away from home, then Estes Park is an excellent place to be in July.”
Ride on over to
BART’S LIQUOR!
Check out our incredible selection of cold beer, hard liquor, and fine wine.
970-586-1930 Conveniently located next to Safeway.
ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 19
An outlaw approach to rodeo By Rooftop Rodeo For the Trail-Gazette
R
ooftop Rodeo was a Cinch rodeo before being one was cool. There was a time not long ago when another Western clothier had a stranglehold on ProRodeo marketing, and the Colorado-based manufacturer was left to its own devices. David Dean, the chairman and CEO of parent company Miller International, found brilliant avenues around the situation, and members of the Estes Park Western Heritage Inc. were right beside him. “Western Heritage was established in 2012 after the rodeo was produced by a town committee for the first 80 years of the rodeo’s existence,” said Mark Purdy, chairman of the group, which features volunteers that now work with the town of Estes Park to produce the annual event. “We wanted to establish a stand-alone non-profit; we’d do all the sponsorships and give every dime back to the town.” As the levels of organization grew, the founders realized they needed special people to be involved on Western Heritage’s board and asked Dean to be a director. Not only did he agree, but he also brought a powerful punch to the table: The Cinch brand. Alas, the Cinch Outlaws were born, and members of the committee wore the Cinch shirts with pride. They still do and will during this year’s Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 6-Monday, July 11, at Granny May Arena in Estes Park inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds.
Steve Gray / Courtesy photo
Longtime Rooftop Rodeo committee member Rick Life wears his Cinch shirt as he cleans banners before one of the performances at last year’s rodeo. Cinch has supported the local event for much of the last decade.
patches made with a skull and crossbones to showcase their marauder theme. “We actually had somebody stitch in a Cinch insignia, and we wore those everywhere we could,” Purdy said. “We couldn’t have Cinch banners that were visible from the arena, but we had them up in the tent where we had our queens’ luncheon. The PRCA balked at that, but we assured them the banners were not visible from the arena.” That all changed a few While the PRCA’s primary clothing sponsor had naming years ago when the PRCA opened its doors to more rights of the National Finals sponsorships and allowed the Rodeo and had a monopoly monopoly to end. Since then, on banners and placements at rodeos, the Cinch Outlaws Cinch banners have been continued to make their ways proudly displayed inside and out at rodeo arenas across across the rodeo circles. They wore their Cinch Roof- the country. top Rodeo shirts all over Las “What a lot of people don’t Vegas each December durknow is that before the ing the NFR and even had chains broke and allowed “It was a fun thing in our minds,” Purdy said with a laugh. “We called ourselves the Pirate Rodeo. We were a constant fly in the ointment for the PRCA, and David started supplying our entire committee with Cinch committee shirts. We never have paid a dime for those, and we have a bunch of committee members. We have six performances, so we have six different colored shirts to use each year, and David has never balked once about providing them for us.”
20 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
Cinch in the door, Cinch had been putting a lot of money into the rodeo ecosystem – high school rodeo, college rodeo and senior ProRodeo – and now there are quite a few rodeos that are Cinchbased,” Purdy said. None, though, were Cinch through and through like Rooftop Rodeo was a decade ago. In fact, the committee has gone a step further; when the makers of Cinch started brewing Gold Buckle Beer, Estes Park volunteers started selling it at the rodeo. Both brands are important fixtures when the rodeo is in town. “We’ve covered our arena in Cinch,” Purdy said. “It’s up on our scoreboard. It’s going to be on our center gate. David Dean and Cinch have been fabulous partners of Rooftop Rodeo, and I hope they will be for years to come.”
Jaros from page 4
three children amid what Aurora police believe was street racing. Jaros was not involved in the street racing. Authorities responded to a 911 call about the shooting and discovered Jaros in the driver’s seat of his pickup that was pulled over and stopped on the shoulder. “John was a very close friend of mine and his family is very dear to me. John was a member of the rodeo committee for many many years. He had many jobs throughout the years, helping in the chute area, a chairman for Cowboy Church and Treasure to name a few,” said Town Board Trustee and Liaison to the Rooftop Rodeo, Marie Cenac. “More important than his role in the Rooftop, he was a wonderful father and family man. He and his wife Katie are raising three great kids. I still can’t believe that he is gone and his mischievous smile is etched in my heart. All of my love goes to his wife and those three precious children.” “John joined the Rooftop Rodeo Committee in 2008 and served in many capacities, including gate puller, mutton bustin’ wrangler, organizer of our Cowboy Church services, and Sponsor. He was a largerthan-life character who helped anyone that needed it and was also proudly active in the Glen Haven Volunteer
Wendy Rigby / Estes Park Trail-Gazette
Fire Chief Kevin Zagorda (left) and Assistant Chief John Jaros (right)
Fire Department. He was a devout family man, and that’s how he would want to be remembered. We urge everyone who reads this to please help us support his wife Katie and their 3 kids.” -- Mark Purdy, Rooftop Rodeo Chairman Jaros was a self-employed provider for his family. Now, the fire department is gathering donations for his wife and children. Jaros was one of the hundreds of fire crew members in Larimer County helping fight the Cameron Peak Fire in 2020. A fund has been set up to help his family at the Bank of Estes Park. Donations for the family can be made by mail or in person to The Jaros Family Fund Donation Account.
By mail: The Bank of Estes Park c/o The Jaros Family Fund Account P.O. Box 2390 Estes Park, CO. 80517 Branch locations: Main Branch: 255 Park Ln, Estes Park, CO 80517
St. Vrain Branch: 501 St. Vrain Ln, #100, Estes Park, CO 80517 Niwot Branch: 7989 Niwot Rd, Longmont, CO 80503 John Jaros Memory and Family Support Fund https://gofund.me/ a542a533
Order
ON THE APP
Live Music!
EVERY NIGHT
OPEN TO PUBLIC
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
420 STEAMER DR 970.586.4930 1220 Big Thompson Ave. | 970-586-4421 | BlueDoorInnEstes.com
ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 21
Estes Park
and CELEBRATING 60 63 YEARS OF FUN
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
Family Amusement Park
• Grand Prix Go-Karts • Bumper Boats • Two 18-Hole Mini Golf Courses s • Krazy Bumper Kars • Casey’s Silver Streak Train ain • Arcade & Snack Bar r • Four Batting Cages • Water Wars - Water Balloon Fights • “X”treme Bungee Trampolines
(970) 586-6495 Rooftop Rodeo
BEST VALUE IN TOWN! 22 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
Located 1 mile east of Visitor's Center on Hwy 34
CARETAKER’S COTTAGE Join ttage o our Ri C s ’ r e tak bbon Cutt ing on July 4th to Tour the Care
ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE •JUNE 29, 2022 • 23
Rodeo
The
PRESTIGE P R Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram m
Way
PRESTIGE ROOFTOP RODEO CORPORATE SPONSOR.
Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
PRESTIGECHYRSLERDODGE.COM East 3rd Avenue in Longmont 24 • JUNE 29, 2022•ROOFTOP RODEO GUIDE
303-219-1154
Weekdays Until 9pm • Sat. Until 8pm