RON SAWYER changing our community one story at a time
At STCU, we support causes that matter, the arts that shape our culture, the athletes who inspire greatness, the mentors who transform students into leaders, and the local events that give our communities their unique flavor. stcu.org/hereforgood
NOBODY DOES IT BETTER
haven’t noticed, Venue Magazine is my love letter to Grant County. I love the businesses, events, places, people and produce here. I wouldn’t want to raise my young children or make this magazine anywhere else! I have fabulous friends and family that live all over the United States and the world, and while I love to visit them, and the amazing museums and landscapes along the way, it is always nice to come home.
This time of year is the best season for all Grant County has to offer in agriculture! My weekly produce boxes from Liberty Gardens is chalk full of delicious and nutritious veggies! My weekly Tonnemaker Large Fruit Box is fresh and juicy! Pure Country Harvest supplies beef and pork for everyday dinners like burgers and porkchops, and for special dinners like our Father’s Day ribs! When so much of your food, and such a variety, is coming from within 15 miles of your home… you know you’re in a special place.
The best part is celebrating the folks behind these industries and the next generation of producers, all culminating each year during the third week of August at the Grant County Fair and Moses Lake Roundup! From goats to quilts, Dessert Artists to cowboys and all our friends in the commercial building, every corner of the Fair is a delight for me and my family.
I hope you enjoy the stories in this magazine that highlight individuals and groups of people that compose and nurture the rodeo and agricultural industries and events in our region. I look forward to your feedback on the magazine, and seeing you at the Loadin’ Chute! Until next timeall the best,
“When so much of your food, and such a variety, is coming from within 15 miles of your home… you know you’re in a special place.”
Venue Magazine, PO Box 312, Ephrata WA 98823 info@thevenuem.com / thevenuem.com / on socials @thevenuemag
On the cover: photo by Roseanna Sales
Growing up with the gate open
Article/MELEA JOHNSON
HHe wasn’t really a horse. He was a Welsh pony and an ornery one. I was only six years old, my sister eight, when we looked up from outdoor play to see our dad coming down the driveway with an old pickup equipped with tall racks to haul home the pony he surprised us with. Jumping up and down with exuberance, we could hardly contain our excitement. Spike would be his name.
We lived in rural Moses Lake in the wide-open spaces where our imaginations could run with the gate wide open.
We lived in rural Moses Lake in the wide open spaces where oure imagination could run with the garte wide open. My sister and I had costumes and would trade off, with one of us getting to be Dale Evans and the other getting to be Roy Rogers, pretending to save the world. What we had been missing was Roy’s famous horse, Trigger, and his wonder dog, Bullet, until Spike arrived. Now we were fully able to orchestrate the needed teamwork between horse, riders, and a wire-haired terrier barking and nipping at our heels.
We spent hours a day learning the art of keeping a horse between us and the ground. We would ride double because it was too hard to take turns. We became more than Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. We built jumps with rocks and boards and did our best to convince Spike to step over them, imagining we were polished equestrian jumpers. We would shimmy up his neck and stand on his back, then slide off his backend, pretending to be circus entertainers.
In our minds, Spike could do it all. In his mind, he would, until he would not. When he decided it was time to stop with the day’s imagination, he would turn towards his corral and, with us or without us, kick into a full canter and make a straight shot for it—done for the day. He was rewarded lavishly with fresh apples and lots of hugs and snuggles.
Now, years and years later, I still smile when I see a horse. Though smaller than a real horse, Spike was larger than life to me. He was a teacher who taught me to hold on tight to my dreams. Never give up. Better yet, he taught me it is not enough to know how to ride; one must know how to fall. And it doesn’t matter how many times you fall…what matters is that you continue to be determined to get back up. Because you never really fall until you stop trying.
Because you never really fall until you stop trying.
Japanese Agricultural Exchange: Living and Learning in Grant County
Article/SHAWN CARDWELL
TThere is fast and slow. There is hot and cold. There is up and down. There is Grant County, WA and the country of Japan. Grant County is freezing in the winter, dry and hot in the summer and full of vast, cutting edge farms: according to the 2022 USDA Consensus of Agriculture, of the County’s 334 farms, the average size was 2,379 acres with 85 farms at 1,000+ acres, and 101 farms at 50-179 acres. Japan enjoys generally more mild weather (but with the occasional typhoon or tsunami) and its farms average less than 3 hectares (8 acres), according to the International Food Policy Research Institute.
Even so, since 1966, the Japanese Agricultural Exchange Council in Japan and the Japanese Agricultural Training Program at Big Bend Community College has connected the two disparate communities. With over 5,100 trainees to date and 30 current trainees at 18 participating farms in six states (Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Minnesota, California and Hawaii), the JAEC and JATP are still going strong, according to Larry Rimple, Director of JATP at Big Bend. He said the training begins at Big Bend annually, in June, with nine weeks of agricultural courses, English and
Spanish language classes, and even weekly meal planning and grocery shopping to help prepare them for the next phase of their stay. Then comes a 14 month residency at a farm related to the trainee’s interest, be it organic fruit, vegetables, dairy or coffee, to name a few. Trainees then travel to California for nine weeks at UC Davis to learn the business side of the agricultural industry, and finally conclude with a closing ceremony in Seattle before heading home to Japan. Today, two trainees, Kaoru Shinehara and Ryota Hanibuchi, are living, working and learning to farm at Tonnemaker Hill Farm near Royal City.
Kaoru grew up on a small farm in southwestern Japan, in the Fukuoka Prefecture (a prefecture is directly below the
I want a large piece of land, and to try many, many varieties and many, many kinds of grapes.” - Ryota
“nation” in terms of regional organization, but does not hold the same status as a state in the United States of America). Fukuoka is a large island of Japan, and one of the closest to the neighboring South Korea. Kaoru said her farm is neither near the ocean nor a mountain, but somewhere “in the middle.” Kaoru’s father and grandfather grow vegetables, “They are growing spinach, sunny lettuce and rice,” she said. Sunny lettuce is a particular variety of lettuce. Her family has no other occupation than farming. Kaoru would like to eventually own a custom florist shop. She fell in love with flowers when she was in high school. “I like all of them, but my best flower is carnation,” she said, which are often given to moms on Mother’s Day in Japan.
Photos by Brayden Bise
Ryota is also from a rural area of Japan in the Tokushima Prefecture, south of the popular tourist cities of Osaka and Kobe. Although Ryota’s family are not farmers, he has friends that farm carrots. Ryota himself is passionate about grapes and has big dreams for his future. “I want a large piece of land, and to try many, many varieties and many, many kinds of grapes,” he said. By large, he means about 25 hectares, or around 60 acres. In Japan, grapes are grown with incredible care and attention to detail. The process may include early pruning of each grape bunch “shoulders”, the top branches of the bunch, and a dip in gibberellic acid which increases the size of each grape by loosening the tightness of the bunch.
Assisting in the interview, and Kaoru and Ryota’s time in Grant County generally, is Luke Tonnemaker, which you may infer from his surname is part of the Tonnemaker Farm family. He and his family have been hosting JATP trainees for many years now, and is well versed in the similarities and idiosyncrasies between the two countries’ agricultural processes and standards. In terms of grapes, he said, “There’s numerous steps to making the clusters beautiful [in Japan]. But then at the end, they’re
Translation/HIROTO OKUMURA
Photo provided by Kaoru
huge and beautiful.”
The steps of growing grapes touches on what you might think of as a general juxtaposition between Japan and the State’s agricultural industries. Because, while Tonnemaker Farm uses some state of the art, modern organic farming techniques and has an impressive and well cared for variety of organic apples (90 to be exact) and stone fruits (more than 60, including five different white nectarines), as explained by Kaoru, “The strawberries are grown differently in Japan than in America. In Japan there is maintenance. America has no maintenance. So, it’s different!” Meaning, Luke’s grapes grow well with all the soil amendments and careful watering regimens, etc. that the farm provides… but he’s not going to go in and hand select every flower that will become
Continued on page 12
Some of Kaoru and Ryota’s favorite fruit in Japan: the My Heart grape and Amoua strawberry.
Some of Ryota & Kaoru’s favorite places in Japan, including her family farm.
Tonnemaker Hill Farms: Family first, then fruit
The Tonnemaker Hill Farm family grows more than 600 varieties of certified organic fruit and vegetables on 126 acres on the north slope of the Frenchman Hills near Royal City along Dodson Road. The farm began transitioning to organic in the 1990’s, said Luke Tonnemaker. The last crops certified organic were cherries in 2008. When the tools became available to certify, and the products were available to keep low pest presence in the fruit and grow crops well, “It seemed like the right thing to do,” said Luke, “All the vegetables had been no spray for the longest time, so we thought, ‘Why not go organic?’” Plus, he said, their customers wanted it.
The Tonnemakers sell around 75% of their produce direct to consumers at farmers markets or fruit stands.
Currently, the farm is dabbling in propagating their own fruit plants. For instance, the strawberries planted this year were grown on the farm instead of shipped from a greenhouse in California because they are no longer available in commercial quantities. Luke said the fruit was, “the biggest we’ve ever seen from this variety. The plants are bigger than they’ve ever been. We dug them up and had them planted in our own field in about 30 minutes… We’re surprised by the result but really excited about that!” They have begun propagating additional untrademarked fruit, including peaches and golden raspberries.
The Tonnemaker Hill Farm store is located at 9098 Dodson Rd S near Royal City, open 8 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday, and until 5 PM on weekends. Produce can be purchased and/or u-picked at the store. Weekly fruit and vegetable boxes are still available on their website at www.tonnemakerfarm.com.
Left to right Luke, Lincoln, Kole, Roslyn and Amanda Tonnemaker
The My Heart grape Ryoto’s home. Photo credit: Ryoto Ryoto’s family. Photo credit: Ryoto
Some of Kaoru and Ryota's favorite places in Japan, including Kaoru's farm.
GRANT PUD DAY
at the Grant County Fair is also FREE admission day on TUESDAY, AUGUST 12
This year our booth will be inside the commercial building.
Learn more about our services, energy- saving tips and community programs. Our friendly team will be there to answer your questions and provide valuable information.
An exhibit from our Cultural Resources Department about the Wanapum will be on display as well. Grant PUD lineman safety demonstration trailer will also be in our customary spot near the midway by the outdoor commercial booths and carnival rides. Shows start around 7:00 p.m. See you there!
Powering our way of life. grantpud.org
“The strawberries are grown differently in Japan than in America. In Japan there is maintenance.” - Kaoru fruit.
Careful maintenance in Japan results in beautiful, flawless grapes, strawberries and other produce. Much of the most expensive fruit in the world is found there. Japan is also home to some special varieties, including: the Amoua Strawberries, dubbed “the king of strawberries” for their size and flavor, which Kaoru is partial to; and, Ryota’s favorite, the My Heart Grape, which when cut in half are the shape of a heart!
So, while some details of farm life in Grant County will not directly translate to the climate in Japan, the experience is an opportunity to get exposure to cutting edge agricultural practices, a chance to practice the English language, explore the world and, of course, try new food! Ryota is partial to Mexican food, and Kaoru gets excited about American desserts (both the flavors and the portions), and looks forward to trying those white nectarines mentioned earlier.
Thinking of Japan, Ryota misses Japanese sushi and Karaage. “Karaage is fried chicken. And garlic, and soy sauce, and ginger. It’s different… it’s so juicy, fresh and tasty!” he said, and recommends it if you get the chance to travel to Japan, and to not accept any substitutes besides the real deal!
Kaoru, Ryota, Luke, Larry and all the others involved in the JATP are a great examples of how two different places, spaces, people or crops can, if trained and maintained, result in a long history of growing something good. If you stop by the Tonnemaker Hill Farm store, be sure to say, “Hello!” Or, you could try, “Konnichiwa!”
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH
Annually first Saturday in October
1378 N DAMON ROAD • RITZVILLE, WA
FOOD BOOTHS: BULK AMISH CHEESE! BULK SAUSAGE, BACON & HAM! QUILT AUCTION! HAMBURGERS! SAUSAGE ON A STICK! PIE & ICE CREAM! NEW YEAR’S COOKIES! COFFEE! APPLE CIDER! AND MORE!
OTHER BOOTHS: ET CETERA (YARD SALE SHOP)! QUILTERS CORNER! CRAFTS! TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES! AND MORE!
Saturday, September 20, Basin RV Sales and Service presents the most anticipated event of the season with Trucks Gone Wild and The Sand Scorpions at Moses Lake Mud Flats and Sand Dunes! Get ready for non-stop 4-wheel drive action featuring the $5,000 bounty hole and the $5,000 freestyle competition.
Action kicks off at high noon. This event is family friendly! The best part is… it is absolutely free! Free to watch, free to participate, and it’s all brought to you by Basin RV Sales and Service! As always at this venue, you definitely want something 4-wheel drive to get around in.
Trucks Gone Wild and the Sand Scorpions together againall going down September 20th, only at Moses Lake!
WORK PARTY DATES
AUG 9 - AUG 23 - SEPT 3
SEPT 24 - OCT 4 - DEC 26
*Event times may be canceled or reshcedule without notice.
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE MOSES LAKE ROUNDUP RODEO & DEMO DERBY
WA-MLO-872038 | Movement Mortgage, LLC supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID #39179 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) 877-314-1499. Movement Mortgage, LLC is licensed by WA #CL-39179
Cultivating Connection, Growth & Community at
Article/DAVA BILODEAU
CCloudview Community Farm is more than soil and crops - it’s a place for growing connection, healing, and hands-on discovery. Our goal is to cultivate healthy, connected people by integrating sustainable agriculture and gardening practices through educational programs and workshops that engage people of all ages.
We’re reconnecting with our roots and realigning our work to reflect our purpose and deepen the ways we serve our community. We are proud to offer a variety of programs that invite children, adults, and families to explore, learn, and grow together in nature.
We are proud to offer a variety of programs that invite children, adults, and families to explore, learn, and grow together in nature.
This summer, our all-ages Summer Camps provide kids with hands-on activities including gardening, cooking with fresh ingredients, outdoor games, crafts, and exploration. For more information, contact us!
Our Lil’ Sprouts Nature Playgroup, returning this fall and next spring, welcomes children ages 1–5 along with their caregivers, for eight weeks of nature immersion, play-based learning, and connection. For more information, contact us!
We also host school field trips that bring the farm to life for students through planting, harvesting, and experiences that highlight sustainable gardening and healthy food systems. If you think your child’s class or group would like to participate, contact us!
And be sure to visit the farm October 11 as the community comes together for our annual Fall Fest, a celebration of the harvest season featuring pumpkins, farm-fresh treats, activities, and joyful connection!
In addition to our programs, Cloudview offers private venue rentals for gatherings and special events, as well as dry
July 11th-14th
July 28th-31st August 11th-14th
camping. You can book through Hipcamp.com and HarvestHosts.com. We welcome travelers to experience and engage in the beauty and peace of the farm firsthand.
Whether you’re exploring one of our programs, attending a seasonal celebration, camping under the stars, or hosting a gathering of your own - we invite you to be part of the Cloudview story. Let’s grow something beautiful together rooted in purpose, sustained by community, and nourished by the land.
We are deeply grateful to the Columbia Basin Hospital Wellness Foundation, whose generous grant support allows us to offer Lil’ Sprouts and Summer Camps at little to no cost to families. Additional donations are always appreciated to help provide scholarships and ensure every child has access to these enriching experiences, regardless of fi nancial circumstances.
JASON LYLE BLACK
Blockbusters to Broadway
TAKE 3:
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2025
Rock, Oldies, Americana, Country, Vocal/Instrumental Trio
Described by audience goes as a mini-trans Siberian Orchestra experience! TAKE3: Where Rock meets Bach - the all-female trio is celebrated for weaving seamlessly in and out of musical styles with jaw dropping virtuosity.
JASON LYLE BLACK: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2025
Blockbusters to Broadway
100 Hits of Stage and Screen is an electrifying new show celebrating the most iconic melodies in music history. This fast-paced show blends virtuosic piano with climactic drums, electric guitar and dazzling visuals.
COLLIN HANSEN
Where Rock Meets Bach TAKE3
Moses Lake Native &Concert Pianist
GENTLEMEN’S QUARTET:
TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2026
Instrumental quartet with female vocalist
GQ is a modern, elegant take on some of the most famous music ever written, fusing together multiple genres in a perfect symphony of sophistication, virtuosity and humor. These four musicians have collectively performed over 10,000 shows and counting.
COLLIN HANSEN: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2025
Piano Soloist
Collin is originally from Moses Lake but has resided in Helsinki Finland for many years. Following his successful debut as a soloist, he has been a frequent guest on the stages of major festivals and concert venues, as well as making numerous appearances on television and radio.
GENTLEMEN’S QUARTET
BACHELORS OF BROADWAY
THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026
Melodies from Stage & Screen
This show features a trio of dashing men, soaring melodies from stage and screen and contemporary three-part vocal harmony. Audiences will hear lush symphonic arrangements of songs from modern and classic musicals.
Triple Threat
Article/CALLIE PRESTON
HHave you ever been standing in an aisle at the store, staring at rows upon rows of the same type of product, all with slight variations and different buzzwords across the package? How do you know which one to choose when overwhelmed with the option of choice? Just like the products at the store, supplements can be the same way. In every category the market is saturated, all with the same idea of promising results. Not to mention every time you go on the internet your feed is being flooded with curated ads that claim to be the next best thing for whatever ailment you’re looking to find relief for. So, what’s the best placed to start when it comes to supplementing?
While every person is different, there are three core supplements we recommend to help get someone to a solid baseline. Those are; a probiotic, magnesium, and an omega oil. These three together are a triple threat, covering a lot of issues that people might not realize could be something easily solved. Magnesium, which has been gaining popularity on social media platforms, has been used for ages to help support almost every function of the body. This includes sleeping, bone health, heart health, muscle function, and much more. Due to soil depletion, many are deficient in key minerals like magnesium. Along with our soil lacking minerals, our diets are not what they used to be. Life is busy, and the convenience of quick meals has changed the food industry and our health. Without staples that our ancestors used to eat, like fish and fermented foods, we tend
to lack a diverse gut microbiome and the essential fatty acids that help support our brain, skin, and joints. This is why it’s key to add a probiotic, and omegas back in.
Once you have the basics covered, it’s so much easier to really figure out what you need when it comes to supplementing. Often these three make a noticeable difference. At Settler’s we have many options in each category, and we’re always happy to help find the best product for your individual needs.
•
Monday - Thursday 11am-9pm
Monday Night Bingo @ 5pm
Tuesday Tacos! Trivia @ 7pm
Whiskey Wednesdays - 50¢ o
Thirsty Thursdays - Beer 50¢ o
Friday 11am-12am
Steak Night Fridays 5-8pm
Bible Study Sundays 10-11am
Sunday Supper Specials
Financial Focus: Do you know about “finfluencers”?
Article/EDWARD JONES
In the age of social media, it’s easy to find advice on just about anything — including how to manage your money. Content creators known as “finfluencers” - short for financial influencers - use platforms like TikTok, YouTube and Instagram to share their takes on investing, budgeting and building wealth. While their content may be engaging, taking financial advice from a finfluencer can come with significant risks.
While some finfluencers may have formal training or credentials, many do not. Instead, their influence stems from their popularity rather than professional experience.
Why be cautious?
For young or new investors, social media can make finance feel accessible. In fact, a 2022 FINRA study says that more than 60% of Americans younger than 35 get investing information from these platforms. But social media isn’t regulated the same way traditional financial advising is, so anyone, qualified or not, can offer financial tips.
Unlike traditional financial advisors, finfluencers don’t know your unique goals, financial situation or risk tolerance. And likely, they’re not licensed (you can check here: Check Out Your Investment Professional | Investor.gov). Even well-meaning guidance might lead you down a risky path if it’s not tailored to your needs. And unfortunately, some finfluencers have exploited the trust they build with followers to promote questionable investments or outright frauds.
Warning signs to watch for.
Here are a few signs that a finfluencer’s advice may be worth avoiding:
• Unrealistic “get-rich” promises: Claims like, “Turn $500 into $50,000 in a year,” are highly improbable and may indicate a scam.
• Hurry, hurry: Be wary of advice that pressures you to act fast or plays on fear of missing out. Important financial decisions shouldn’t come with a countdown clock.
• Flashy displays of wealth: Images of luxury cars, watches or cash can be more about generating views than offering sound advice. If a finfluencer is trying that hard to convince you to take an action, it often means they will profit — perhaps they’ll get paid to promote a product or service, or earn a fee for referring you.
What you can do.
• Do your own homework. Don’t take finfluencers’ advice at
face value. Cross-check it with reliable sources. The finfluencer may even be under investigation by a federal or state securities regulator. Talking to a licensed financial advisor you trust can help you discern good advice from the bad.
• Recognize conflicts of interest. If a finfluencer promotes a product or service, find out if they’re being paid to do so. And remember, online personalities make money by generating high viewership, not because their advice has a track record of success.
• Use common sense. When something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. And of course, never disclose your bank or brokerage account numbers to a finfluencer, and never send money.
Finfluencers can make financial topics more engaging and accessible. But when it comes to your money, a social media video from someone who doesn’t know you is no substitute for informed, personalized guidance. Take the time to verify, research and, when in doubt, seek advice from a professional.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward
James B Shank Financial Advisor
123 W 3rd Ave
James B Shank Financial Advisor
Moses Lake, WA 98837
509-855-5556
Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
rodeo schedule
daily:
Gates open: 5 PM
Mutton Bustin’: 6:30 PM
Rodeo: 7:30 PM
all events every night:
Bareback Riding
Saddle Bronc
Women’s Breakaway Roping
Women’s Barrel Racing
Steer Wrestling
Tie Down Roping
Team Roping Bull Riding
thursday, august 14th
White Out to Wipe Out Cancer
Please, wear white in solidarity. More info: columbiabasincancerfoundation.org
Friday, August 15th
Military Day Celebrating those that served. Show Service ID at Blue Gate for free entry.
Saturday, August 16th
Man Up Crusade Night
raising Awareness of Domestic Violence, please wear purple More info: www.manupcrusade.com
For more information, contact the rodeo office at 765-6393.
Photos by Roseanna Sales
Entries are full, plan for next year!
Pre-registration required at www.moseslakeroundup.com.
• Limited to 15 contestants a night.
• Kids must be 4-7 years old and under 60 lbs dressed.
• Entry fee is $30 per contestant & includes rodeo entrance for child.
• Only one parent/guardian per contestant to accompany child
saddle bronc
Overview: Saddle bronc competition involves a bucking horse attempting to throw or buck off its rider. Originally based on the necessary buck breaking skills of a working cowboy, the event is now a highly stylized competition. Each competitor climbs onto a horse held in a bucking chute, and when ready, the chute gate is opened and the horse bursts out and begins to buck. The rider uses a specialized saddle with free-swinging stirrups and no horn. With one hand, the rider grips a braided rein attached to a leather halter worn by the horse.
A complete ride is when a rider lasts eight seconds without touching the horse with their free hand. On the first jump out of the chute, the rider must also “mark the horse out” by keeping the heels of their boots in contact with the horse above the point of the shoulders before the horse’s front legs hit the ground.
History: The earliest examples of American bronc riding were born out of breaking horses for the United States
Army. The first sanctioned championship events were held in 1901 in Colorado.
Scoring: A complete ride is scored on a scale of 0–50 for both the rider and the horse. Horses who buck in a spectacular manner score more points than one who bucks a straight line.
Horses: Since bucking horses travel in close quarters and are housed in a herd setting, they are usually mares (females), and occasionally geldings (castrated males), who are generally less disruptive than stallions.
Flank strap controversy: A “flank” or “bucking” strap is used to encourage the horse to kick out straighter and higher. A horse in pain will become sullen and not buck very well, so the flank straps must be used strategically. Flank straps that hurt the horse are not allowed in the United States.
rodeo queen, kaylee stump
KKaylee Stump is just getting started. With only a few years riding under her belt and a Rodeo Queen title on her resume, she’s got a lot ahead of her. “We’re in the middle of it,” Kaylee said of her time as Moses Lake Roundup Rodeo Queen. “This is my last year rodeo queening, so I’m slowly looking back on everything and seeing how many opportunities it’s given me,” she said. Some opportunities, and lots of inspiration.
Next year, Kaylee will start competing in rodeos with her breakaway horse, and she’ll be busy on the family ranch, which her and her dad started since she got involved in the rodeo. “He raised cows when he was younger, and me being a rodeo queen sort of reopened the door for this,” she said, “We have seven calves as of right now! And hopefully it will bloom a little bit bigger.”
Not only is her family involved and supporting her entrance into the rodeo, in fact, the whole rodeo is. “It’s really just one big family,” she said, “Rodeo is one big family that takes care of its own.”
“I’ve grown up around Moses Lake my entire life, my mom grew up in Moses, my grandparents lived in Moses. The people in Moses Lake have always been extremely
generous, and always come out when someone needs help. It’s a very loving community and one I’m extremely grateful to be raised in,” Kaylee said.
As for her advice for anyone looking to do something new… “Never give up on your dreams and smile big, that’s what I tell everyone!” she said.
“never give up on your dreams and smile big, that’s what i tell everyone!” she said.
caleb mcmillan, linderman award recipient locals to watch
I“It’s just what we’ve always done, and it’s not that big of deal,” said Caleb McMillan, of Wilson Creek, about his rodeo career. Last December at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, where it is held each year, Caleb was recognized with the coveted and hard-won Linderman Award.
Annually, the award is given to the professional rodeo athlete who wins the greatest purse from a combination of three events from Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rodeos, with a couple caveats: total earnings have to be over $1,000 and the events have to include at least one from both sides of the arena, meaning at least one rough stock (riding bulls or broncs) and one timed event. “It’s the true all-around from the PRCA,” he said. “Linderman was one of the greatest ‘overall’” he said of the award’s namesake. Caleb is obviously skilled at a number of rodeo events, but his best, he said, is bull riding.
Award notwithstanding, Caleb says he stays relatively close to home since his college days rodeoing in Wyoming.
He competes in 50 - 60 rodeos each summer across Washington, Idaho and Oregon. He stays busy taking care of his cows on the family ranch, and coaching high school basketball.
Caleb plans to compete at the Moses Lake Roundup this year. Don’t miss him or any other of the most exciting eight seconds Thursday, Friday or Saturday at the Moses Lake Roundup!
photograph by Michael Dodge
arena entertainment
john harison: generations of rodeo, years of laughs
CCan’t miss! John Harrison, a nine time Comedy Act of the Year, eight time Coors Man in the Can and three time Clown of the Year will be entertaining us again at this year’s Moses Lake Roundup!
Harrison began his professional career with the PRCA in 1999 as a member, trick rider and roman rider, later adding barrelman to his bag of tricks. You’ll see him standing on (multiple) horses and clowning around –doing impressions, exaggerating mistakes and playing tricks - with his highly trained four-legged friend, Snoopy.
Harrison grew up around rodeo himself as a third generation rodeo professional, with grandfather Freckles Brown setting the bar for the family as a rodeo legend in his own right. Freckles rode the “unrideable” bull, Tornado (a legend himself that inspired many Western songs) and was a World Champion Bull Rider in 1962.
THE MUTLEY CREW: YIP, YIP, HORRAY
BBert Davis, the Coppertown Clown is coming to the Moses Lake Roundup! Davis, often dubbed the “Clown with all the Dogs” reached the third round in America’s Got Talent. The Mutley Crew features ten rescue dogs, adopted by Bert and his wife, Frannie, who shine as a group and individuals in the arena! Regardless, they all know it is the dogs that truly endear the act to the spectators.
Performing in front of a large rodeo crowd is ‘old hat’ for this veteran entertainer, rodeo clown, barrelman
and specialty act, who started his breakout career as the “Youngest PRCA Rodeo Clown/Bullfighter in the Nation” at age 16 in 1974.
Davis’ ability to interact with a crowd offers up the promise of tear-rolling laughter for his audiences. They’ve performed all over Canada, the States and Australia.
Don’t miss this fun and fantastic family show! Garth Brooks may sing “It’s the roar of the Sunday crowd”, but for the Coppertown Clown it’s the roar of any rodeo crowd.
W E ' R E
S T R O N G E R
T O G E T H E R
D ea r F r i e n d s a n d S u p p o r te r s
A s we ce l e b ra t e 2 5 ye a r s o f s e r v i ce t o t h e Co l u m b i a
B a s i n co m m u n i t y , I w a n t t o p e r s o n a l l y i nv i t e yo u t o a
n i g h t t h a t m e a n s s o m u c h t o u s C a n ce r Aw a r e n e s s
N i g h t a t t h e M o s e s L a ke R o u n d u p R o d e o ,
h a p p e n i n g Th u r s d ay , Au g u s t 1 4 t h , 2 0 2 5 I t ’ s t h e
o p e n i n g n i g h t o f t h e r o d e o , a n d i t ' s o u r c h a n ce t o
h o n o r , r e m e m b e r , a n d u p l i f t t h o s e a f f e c t e d by
ca n ce r i n o u r r e g i o n .
W e c a l l i t W H I T E O U T T O W I P E O U T a n d w e a s k
e v e r y o n e a t t e n d i n g t o w e a r w h i t e i n a u n i f i e d s h o w
o f s u p p o r t . T o g e t h e r , w e ’ l l h o n o r t h o s e w e ’ v e l o s t ,
s t a n d b e s i d e t h o s e w h o a r e s t i l l i n t h e f i g h t , a n d
c e l e b r a t e t h e s t r e n g t h a n d r e s i l i e n c e o f o u r
s u r v i v o r s I t ’ s a p o w e r f u l m o m e n t e v e r y y e a r a n d
w e ’ d l o v e f o r y o u t o b e a p a r t o f i t
Th i s ye a r i s ex t ra s p e c i a l f o r u s . Th e Co l u m b i a B a s i n
C a n ce r F o u n d a t i o n i s p r o u d l y ce l e b ra t i n g 2 5 ye a r s o f
p r ov i d i n g u nw ave r i n g s u p p o r t t o o u r n e i g h b o r s
fa c i n g ca n ce r F o r a q u a r t e r - ce n t u r y , we ’ ve s t o o d by
fa m i l i e s w i t h co m p a s s i o n , r e s o u r ce s , a n d h o p e a n d
we co u l d n ’ t h ave d o n e i t w i t h o u t yo u .
O ve r t h e ye a r s , yo u r s u p p o r t h a s a l l owe d u s t o g r ow
i n t o s o m e t h i n g t r u l y i n c r e d i b l e Th a n k s t o d o n a t i o n s ,
co m m u n i t y p a r t n e r s h i p s , a n d eve n t s l i ke t h i s o n e ,
we n ow p r ov i d e ove r $ 1 0 , 0 0 0 eve r y m o n t h i n g a s
a n d g r o ce r y ca r d s , a l o n g w i t h f r e s h p r o d u ce ,
n u t r i t i o u s m e a l s , a n d v i t a l e m o t i o n a l s u p p o r t f o r
l o ca l ca n ce r p a t i e n t s
R o s e a n n a S a l e s P h o t o g r a p h y
Donate Here!
A N G E L L E D E S M A
Exe c u t i ve D i re c to r o f t h e
Co l u m b i a B a s i n Ca n ce r
Fo u n d a t i o n s i n ce 2 0 1 2
A n d t h a n k s t o o u r l o n g - t i m e p a r t n e r s h i p w i t h t h e
M o s e s L a ke R o u n d u p R o d e o w h o h ave g e n e r o u s l y
co n t r i b u t e d m o r e t h a n $ 5 8 ,0 0 0 ove r t h e ye a r s
we ’ r e a b l e t o ke e p ex p a n d i n g o u r i m p a c t
B u t t h i s n i g h t i s a b o u t m o r e t h a n n u m b e r s i t ’ s
a b o u t co m m u n i t y I t ’ s a b o u t s h ow i n g eve r y p e r s o n
b a t t l i n g ca n ce r t h a t t h ey a r e n o t a l o n e I t ’ s a b o u t
h o n o r i n g o u r s h a r e d m i s s i o n :
" To b r i n g t h e c o m m u n i t y to g e t h e r to s u p p o r t
a n d m e e t t h e n e e d s o f o u r n e i g h b o r s w i t h
c a n c e r . "
Th i s m i s s i o n h a s g u i d e d u s f o r 2 5 ye a r s a n d i t w i l l
co n t i n u e t o g u i d e u s a s we m ove f o r w a r d , t o g e t h e r
I f yo u ’ d l i ke t o h e l p u s co n t i n u e t h i s v i t a l wo r k , I
i nv i t e yo u t o m a ke a d o n a t i o n by s ca n n i n g t h e Q R
s s s o s u e w k
co d e a b ove Yo u r g i f t , n o m a t t e r t h e s i z e , h e l p s m a ke
r e a l c h a n g e f o r r e a l p e o p l e r i g h t h e r e a t h o m e .
Th a n k yo u f o r s t a n d i n g w i t h u s f o r 2 5 i n c r e d i b l e
ye a r s A n d t h a n k yo u f o r s h ow i n g u p a g a i n t h i s ye a r ,
we a r i n g w h i t e , a n d h e l p i n g u s w i p e o u t ca n ce r o n e
s t e p a t a t i m e
W i t h h e a r t f e l t g ra t i t u d e ,
A n g e l L e d e s m a
Miner Services
Demo Derby Schedule:
Tuesday, Aug 12th
5:00 PM Time Trials
Dirt Bike Barrel Racing
Opening, National Anthem, Best Looking Car Award
Trophy Dash
Heat races
Powder Puff race
Australian Pursuit
Winners Race
Chain & Go Demo
Wednesday, Aug 13th
6:00 PM Youth Power Wheels
Committee Charity Race
Opening, National Anthem
Heat races
Figure 8
Powder Puff
Australian Pursuit
Winners Race
80’s Car Demo
*gates open one hour before first event* *schedule subject to change depending on entries*
demo derby!
power wheels: drive, bang, pop!
Pre-registration required at wwwmoseslakeroundup.com
• Wednedsay only.
• Limited to 25 entries.
• Kids must be 4-7 years old and under 60 lbs dressed.
• Entry fee is $30 per contestant and includes demo entrance.
• Balloons provided. Kids must supply own car and helmet.
• Full details on website.
australian pursuit
TThis is a race in which riders start at equidistant points around the track, or released from the starting point at equal intervals, with inverted time trial positions, meaning the slowest car is in front and the fastest in back. The Australian Pursuit is often considered the most exciting race of a series because the average time trial order is reversed and staggered such that, in theory, all racers will be converging on the finish line together. The goal is for all racers to converge near the finish line, creating a more competitive and unpredictable race.
The object is to catch the rider ahead, eliminating them from the race while not being caught by the rider behind. The winner is the first of the remaining riders to cross the line after the time runs out.
At the Miner Services Demo Derby, you’ll see about 10 cars start from a dead stop evenly spaced around the track. When there are two cars left a two minute timer starts to determine the winner, said organizer Aaron Schrodt. There is no clear line of history of the Australian Pursuit, with individual and team pursuit races common in track and field and cycling - and prominent in national and international events like NASCAR and the Olympics. The race format is used by all sorts of races, from running to skiing to motorcycles. One thing is true across all the different kinds - this race is an event that gets the crowds excited!
For more information on Rodeo, contact 509-765-6393.
Participant Registration:
Demo Cars: ................. $27.50-$102.50
Power Wheels: .............................. $30 includes Demo ticket
Dirt Bike Barrel Racing: $27.50
Please register at: www.moseslakeroundup.com
For questions on Demo 509-989-1812. ** ALL RODEO/DEMO TICKETS GAIN YOU ENTRANCE TO THE FAIR **
all active military & veterans, moses lake roundup would like to thank you:
You’re invited to attend the Moses Lake Roundup on Friday, August 15th, FREE OF CHARGE!
Show your Service ID at Blue Gate and your admission on Friday is free of charge.
Yloadin' chute: where the vips cut loose
You don’t have to sit with the herd. This exclusive 21+ lounge boasts its own private food concessionaire and a full service bar featuring spirits from Southern Spirits, Proximo, Coors products from Odom Distributing, and of course Spurstride Wheated Bourbon Whiskey from Moses Lake Distillery. A portion of sales from Spurstride goes directly back to Moses Lake Roundup.
Don’t want to belly up to the bar? No problem. The Loadin’ Chute comes with its own wait staff and security. Enjoy the shade under the large tent, or get great views of all the rodeo action on the raised viewing platform.
This area is for 21+ only. Open each day of the Miner’s Services Demo Derby and the Moses Lake Roundup, Tuesday through Saturday, from 5 PM until one hour after last event. Hang around after Roundup events and listen to John White’s memorable and acoustic music set!
Entrance to Loadin’ Chute is $40 each day, tickets available at www.moseslakeroundup.com and at the Rodeo Office at Green Gate. and don't forget
• Open from 5pm to 2am Tuesday - Saturday.
• Bleacher seating.
• Nightly party after events are over.
- DJ Dale Roth after Demo and Thursday night rodeo.
- Live band, American Honey, Friday & Saturday.
Spurstride spirits was created out of a need for an American-made spirit that could support and honor the hardworking values of Rodeo events, families, and communities. The inaugural collaboration between Moses Lake Roundup and Moses Lake Distillery showcases a bourbon based upon the 2024 ASCOT Double Platinum Award winning spirit from Moses Lake Distillery.
As Moses Lake Roundup celebrates its 82nd year and boasts being a top 50 PRCA Rodeo, only the best will do to recognize and support one of the greatest shows on dirt! Spurstride is proud to be an American Made, Veteran Owned, and Roundup Approved brand.
A heartfelt farewell
As told by/ SUE TEBOW
TThis year, Moses Lake Roundup says farewell to Sue Tebow who has been their Marketing Director since 2013. For Sue, rodeo goes back to the roots of agriculture, and her roots, as well. This has been a full circle experience for her, entering the world of rodeo as the Moses Lake Roundup Rodeo Princess, and now retiring after over a decade of professional service to the organization. But don’t worry, she’s not leaving the rodeo for good! How can you when the rodeo is your family.
While the rest of the folks at the arena may love rodeo, “for love of the sport, the challenge of the bucking bull, the challenge of beating the clock. And a lot of them say it’s in their blood…” as Sue says, she loves it because, “Rodeos showcase a rich heritage of Western culture… and I love the smell of arena dirt!”
More, from Sue:
“I have loved horses since I was a kid. I joined horse 4-H and showed equitation and trail classes, I also participated in gymkhanas and junior rodeo events. My senior year of high school I was a Moses Lake Roundup Rodeo Princess. At the ripe age of 18 I was able to travel to rodeos throughout the state and represent Moses Lake. My dad hauled all the rodeo royalty horses in the back of an old stock truck. My mom would help fix my hair and pin down my cowboy hat for rodeo runs. My parents were both very involved in my horse activities.
In my thirties I started barrel racing and joined the WPRA (Women’s Professional Rodeo Association). I cherish the memories of those years, I absolutely loved racing, and I had an awesome horse who took good care of me.
In 2013 I started working for the Moses Lake Roundup as their Marketing Director. I take care of the advertising, the sponsors, and numerous details that seem to pop up. I have enjoyed every part of working for the roundup, but the best part is meeting new people and sharing the love of the sport. The rodeo sponsors are not just sponsors, they have become friends.
Of all the PRCA-sanctioned rodeos in the Columbia River Circuit, Moses Lake Roundup won Small Rodeo of the Year in 2011, and after increasing purse money, won Large Rodeo of the Year in 2013. This was a great honor, especially considering legendary rodeos like Ellensburg and the Pendleton Roundup were amongst the competition! I love being a part of the growth working side-by-side with the Roundup’s committee members.
But all good things must come to an end, so they say. I am retiring, passing the torch, so to speak. The 2025 Moses Lake Roundup will be my last rodeo (to work). I plan on attending and watching the Roundup and Demo Derby grow even more! Reflecting back… I am proud of the job I have done, doing my part to advocate for the sport I love so much.
So, if you see me at the 2025 Roundup please stop and chat, I am gonna miss you guys!” - Sue Tebow
SEPTEMBER 6TH, 2025
EP EMBER
elebratin
R 1
1X LARGE OUTDOOR R 10-13, 2025 115 Years
RO
ODEO OF THE YEAR
Ron Sawyer: Playing is work, work is a legacy
Introduction/ SHAWN CARDWELL
This is a special story, a story so special that one person could not tell it. This is an introduction to Ron Sawyer, a “gentleman”, a man who is “a number of puzzle pieces”, by five members of his many spheres.
We’ve used these five voices to tell the different sides of Ron’s story, so you, the reader, get a real feel for the many facets of his projects and passions, and how they affect so many parts of our community. You’ll meet men and women, from his wife to his friends to his co-workers and cocreators, that agreed to help me tell Ron’s story.
As someone who has personally worked with Ron in many capacities - from regionally touring his musical, to listening to his lake health reports, to events at the Marina, I can attest to his multi-faceted approach to life that somehow just makes sense. I hope you are inspired to get out and make something happen, to start a ripple in our in our communal lake that, with a little luck, lots of practice and some hard work, will be felt for generations to come, just like Ron has done and continues to do.
Ron Sawyer: Cascade Marina, a family affair
As told by/ REBECCA “BECKY” SAWYER, OWNER AND MANAGER, CASCADE MARINA
The story of Ron Sawyer starts where all our stories begin, and if we’re lucky, where they end: with family.
Becky met her future husband at Eastern Washington University, where they were both going to college: Becky for journalism and Ron for music. They fell in love, graduated and got married. Their attention soon shifted from the creative arts to the more practical industries of boat maintenance and refueling at the Cascade Marina, in Moses Lake.
Becky and Ron’s focus was not narrow for long –they bought a second marina in Pasco, expanded their Moses Lake shop to include recreation equipment and welcomed their daughters, Lisa and Kari. “For about 20
by Xalt Photos
Photos
years we didn’t have any time for anything except for the Marina and raising the girls,” Becky said. Once life slowed down after selling the Pasco business and their daughters had left for college… it got even busier! Becky now takes care of her mother while she manages the Marina, which has grown to include storage rentals with both closed units and open space for RVs or boats, campsites with RV hook-ups, and an indoor event space for small to midsize groups. The Marina also boasts a food truck, owned and managed by Lisa and her husband. Lisa helps manage the Marina, while daughter Kari is more involved in the venue space and her own shuttle service.
“…they are surrounded by what they have built togetherthe marina, music, the lake, lots of fish and lots of love.”
Ron’s many activities are contained in the next few pages, but besides all that, he continues to support the family business wrenching on boats when needed, and his family by watching his young grandchildren and teaching them to fish. Becky supports and gets out with Ron whenever she can, attending events, cruising the pontoon around the lake, or playing keys with him in a band or play. Yes, they are busy, but more importantly they are surrounded by what they have built together – the Marina, music, the lake, lots of fish and lots of love.
Learn more about Cascade Marina at www.cascademarinaresort.com.
Ron Sawyer: Innovative industry
As told by/MARILYN MESEBERG, OWNER, MARDON RESORT
MResort shores
MarDon Resort is nestled on the shores of Potholes Reservoir, near the Columbia Wildlife Refuge between Royal City and Moses Lake. Marilyn Mesebery would
send her patrons Ron’s way for boat parts and repairs.
Ron eventually teamed up with Marilyn’s fatherin-law, Rod Meseberg, in the 1990’s to save fishing in Moses Lake and the Resevoir. Overfishing of the nursery
“…just wanted to pass along healthy lakes where most anyone could catch a fish and pass this gift along to future generations.
stock, the introduction of Walleye and bass from the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project and four inches of Mt. Saint Helens ash in 1980 made a noticeable difference in populations of warmwater fish including recreational fishing favorites perch, bluegill and crappie. After years of work, these warmwater fish were recognized as valuable assets to the Washington State ecosystem, and a hatchery was opened up near Hanford to produce them.
In many ways, their work was continued by Marilyn’s husband, Mike Meseberg, when in 2005 he introduced “habitat boxes” to the shore of Mardon, which provide places for young fish to live and hide from predators. “For my husband, and really all three of these gentlemen, they just wanted to pass along healthy lakes where most anyone could catch a fish and pass this gift along to future generations,” she said.
“Sometimes it’s just luck,” Marilyn said, “that people like Ron and Rod meet each other. They clicked… Rod was older and Ron was young: Rod took a lot of energy from Ron’s youth and Ron took a lot of wisdom from Rod. They had a problem, talked it out, kept putting one foot in front of the other… eventually you find one small solution and then a bigger solution. I doubt that Ron, upon meeting Rod and joining forces, ever imagined he’d be where he is now.”
Learn more about Mardon Resort at www.mardonresort. com and the Central Washington Fish Advisory Committee at www.cwfac.org.
Ron Sawyer: Committed to Quality
Author/ KRISTINA RIBELLIA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COLUMBIA BASIN CONSERVATION DISTRICT
RRon is one of the most passionate and dedicated individuals working to conserve and enhance the water quality and habitat of Moses Lake. As a local business owner, engaged community member, and active Chair of the Moses Lake Watershed Council, Ron brings a deeply rooted commitment to the health and well-being of both
“Through Ron’s leadership, CBCD has secured more than $4 million to support local watger quality improvements.”
the lake and our broader community.
Since joining the Columbia Basin Conservation District (CBCD) in 2022, Ron has led with purpose, vision, and action. As the Director of CBCD’s Department of Environmental Monitoring & Restoration, Ron oversees multiple programs focused on lake health, water quality, and critical areas conservation. Drawing from decades of experience and his first-hand knowledge of Moses Lake’s ecosystem, Ron brings a grounded, informed perspective.
Through Ron’s leadership, CBCD has secured more than $4 million to support local water quality improvements. He has spearheaded a range of initiatives, including the Grant County Healthy Lakes Tracker, shoreline nutrient assessments, septic-to-sewer conversions, and youth education programming - most notably “The Hunt for Yarely,” an original educational play.
Ron’s strengths lie not only in his creative and critical thinking skills but in his ability to build lasting relationships. His long-standing ties to the community and our partners make him an invaluable asset. Our district is better because of Ron’s humble leadership, and the impact of his work will be felt for decades to come.
Learn more about the Grant County Conservation District at www.columbiabasincd.org
Ron Sawyer: And all that jazz
As told by/ DAN BEICH, MUSIC TEACHER, MOSES LAKE SCHOOL DISTRICT
DDan met Ron through a number of musicals they played in the early 2000’s. “He’s a brass guy, a trumpet. He was a music major and he’s continued to make his playing a
huge part of his life. As a trumpet player, especially at the level he’s playing, if you don’t keep your lips going you’re in trouble. He does what he has to do to keep his chops going and hit those high C’s!” Dan said.
Ron is and has been involved with various jazz groups over the years, from an ensemble who played regularly at the senior center, to the Wenatchee Big Bend who plays at impressive regional venues.
“…our passion for the arts, and music in particular, is so strong, we want to keep that echoing in our lives and help it flourish in our communities.”
“He and I are very similar in that our passion for the arts, and music in particular, is so strong, we want to keep that echoing in our lives and help it flourish in our communities,” Dan said, “Every community is a puzzle, and Ron isn’t a puzzle piece, he’s a number of puzzle pieces… And, like how I’ll transition [into retirement]it’s a change in responsibility where you’re less required to do something, but now you’re just as busy doing things you’re passionate about. I think that’s the kind of thing that drives him and a lot of community members who are civically minded and like to stay busy.”
Learn more about the Wenatchee Big Band on Facebook.
Ron Sawyer: Art and reason
Author/ EMILY DUVALL, ORGANIZER, SUNSHINE PERFORMING ARTS
II think Ron has played the trumpet in almost every show I’ve done with a live orchestra. He let me sing in his band and gave me my first paid acting gig. I feel quite indebted to Ron for the many times he’s given me an opportunity to use my talents. Ron is incredible at making things happen, he is very good at figuring out what he wants and just doing it!
We started our theatre group, Sunshine Performing Arts, out of a desire to forge our own path and fill in some gaps we thought were needed in Moses Lake. Ron is the level-headed voice of reason in our group and a crucial part of every event we’ve done so far.
“We started…Sunshine Performing Arts, out of a desire to forge our own path and fill in some gaps…in Moses Lake.”
Something outside of the arts I think is important to know about Ron is… living in Moses Lake as a notreligious-person amongst an extremely religious community
is not super easy. I’ve heard stories of the judgment he has faced because of this, and to be candid, Ron is one of the most charitable, humble and slow to anger people I’ve ever met. Ron is good for the sake of being good and I know this religious gal could take a few notes from my buddy Ron as far as that goes!
Learn more about Sunshine Performing Arts on Facebook.
