The Omak Stampede and World-Famous Suicide Race

Your guide to the Omak Stampede and World-Famous Suicide Race

Rodeo Preview - p. 6 Suicide Race - p. 7 Encampment - p. 8 Christians in Action - p. 22 Grand Parade - p. 24

A supplement to The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle • July 31, 2019 2 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash.

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A To COLUMBIA Map of grounds Encampment...... 8 elcome to “Western 1 Stampede Arena 9 Beer gardens Ride-in...... 25 W Rendezvous,” your guide Rodeo preview...... 6 to the Omak Stampede and 2 Suicide Hill 10 Tribal police Schedule of events...... 5 related events. 3 11 Stampede at a glance...... 4 Besides the PRCA rodeo, Encampment area Security the weekend brings the World- Stampede history...... 28 Famous Suicide Race, Omak 4 Owners and Jockeys 12 RV parking Stampede museum...... 9 Stampede Indian Encamp- 5 Suicide Race...... 7 ment, Omak Western and Christians in Action 13 Visitor center Native Art Show and a variety Stampede queen...... 12 6 of events ranging from a stage Western and Native Art 14 Davis Shows Carnival Western and Native Art Show..20 ministry to vendors. Wrangler Kids’ Night...... 25 Residents, businesses and Show (110 S. Ash St.) 15 Stampede Museum other organizations have been 7 © 2019 The Omak-Okanogan preparing for this event for a Food court County Chronicle year. 8 Concessions Bathrooms Owned and operated by Eagle It’s time to party, and Newspapers Inc. you’re invited to the greatest 618 Okoma Drive, Omak, WA show on dirt. 98841 The Omak Stampede and World-Famous Suicide Race P.O. Box 553, Omak, WA 98841 will take center stage in Omak Teresa Myers, publisher Aug. 8-11 with top-notch bull and advertising manager riders, bronc busters, ropers Brock Hires, managing editor and Suicide Racers. 509-826-1110 • 800-572-3446 • After the rodeo Friday and 509-826-5819 fax Saturday nights, adults can hit www.omakchronicle.com the beer garden and dance the night away. Contributing writers/ Rodeo not your thing? Well, + "'&'%*+#%$* photographers: Dee Camp, Al there’s always the midway. Camp, Amber Hedington, Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, + '%&#("+"'%" " Brock Hires and Katie Teachout. go upside down or spin out of +(%%*" ("%'#$ control. Don’t forget to partake in the curly fries, cotton candy +('%'#" #"&( ''#" and elephant ears. There’s also Christian +!%"*%)& music, a parade and more. Downtown Omak will also have plenty going on. Take in the festivities one or all four days. And be ready for the #%$$#"'!"' grand parade early Sunday morning. In short, there’s something going on for everyone. We invite you to join in the festive mood and help the community celebrate its heritage. # (!'+! + 4 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. 86th annual Stampede rides to Omak By DEE CAMP The Chronicle

op professional cowboys and Tcowgirls are signed up to compete at the 86th annual Omak Stampede, set for Aug. 8-11. The 84th World-Famous Suicide Race, plus the Omak Stampede Indian Encampment, ride-in, grand parade, two art shows and other Western fun, accompany the rodeo. Show times are 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 1 p.m. Sunday in the Omak Stampede Arena, 421 Stampede Drive E. Tickets are available from the Stampede ticket office next to the arena in East Side Park, online or by phone. Prices vary, depending on the performance and section. Special prices are offered on Thursday for family night and on Sunday for Patriot Day plus additional discounts. Fans can expect a full range of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association events and Women’s AL CAMP | The Chronicle Professional Rodeo Association barrel Andy Clarys of Riverton, Wyo., hangs on during bronc riding at the 2018 Omak Stampede. racing. A wild horse race starts the prizes will be given. Stampede Outreach and a 3 p.m. Harrison, who grew up in Okanogan. Thursday, Friday and Saturday rodeo Thursday is family night at the showing of “Eagle Boy” at the Mirage The specialty act is Cowgirl performances, and a running of the rodeo. Theater, 101 S. Main St. Another Sweethearts trick riders. World-Famous Suicide Race comes Slack competition in timed events showing of “Eagle Boy” is at 10:30 The announcer will be Steve after each rodeo performance. will be at 9 a.m. Friday in the arena. a.m. Saturday. Kenyon. Stock contractors are Big Activities begin Aug. 7 with Admission is free. Saturday includes the Bend, Ritzville, and Flying 5, Pomeroy. opening of the Davis Shows carnival Slack is offered when there are encampment and carnival, art shows Suicide Race fans wearing at the west end of East Side Park, in more contestants signed up for a – both with receptions, Stampede booster buttons, available on the which the rodeo arena also is located. timed event than can be run during Outreach, an Autographs and Athletes grounds and in local businesses, will Carnival hours are 5-11 p.m. the regular rodeo performances. The session from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Jess be admitted to special viewing areas Wednesday; the carnival continues extra competitive time also allows Auto, 707 Okoma Drive, rodeo on the hill and the dike in the park. A daily throughout the weekend. contestants to make a showing at performance at 7 p.m., Suicide Race rodeo ticket stub from the The encampment gets going more than one rodeo per weekend. and dance with the Night Riders. performance preceding each race also Wednesday evening with campers’ Opening ceremonies for the Omak Sunday is Patriot Day in support of grants admission to the dike area. night, as does the Omak Western and Stampede Indian Encampment will be U.S. troops, with red, white and blue Viewing also is available from Native Art Show at the Omak Elks at 6 p.m. in the dance arbor at the clothing encouraged by Stampede many areas of the arena for rodeo Lodge, 110 S. Ash St. Hours for the east end of the park. officials. Veterans get in free with ticket holders. art show are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 8- The rodeo is at 7 p.m., followed by military ID. Concessions will operate all 10, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 11, with the Suicide Race and a dance with DJ The encampment, Stampede weekend on the grounds. Vendors a reception and live auction at 2 p.m. Jason Brown. Outreach, art shows and carnival offer a variety of food and beverages, Saturday. Friday is “Tough Enough to Wear wrap up. cowboy hats and other souvenirs. Thursday brings the annual kick- Pink” night at the rodeo, with $1 from The Stampede grand parade will Stampede Museum Association off ride-in, plus continuation of the art each ticket going to the campaign to be at 10 a.m. in downtown Omak. museum will be open during the show and carnival. The Cowboys and raise awareness and funds for breast Each rodeo performance begins weekend at 410 E. Second Ave., near Indians Invitational Art Show artists’ cancer research and detection. with the Parade of Flags, a drill the Omak Visitor Information Center reception starts at 1 p.m. at RockWall Stampede officials urge rodeo involving horses and riders carrying and just off Omak Avenue. Hours are Cellars, 110 Nichols Road. The show participants and fans to wear pink. flags sponsored by area businesses, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from Aug. 8-11. continues from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The rodeo is at 7 p.m., followed by clubs and agencies. Fees are charged for parking on Friday and Saturday. the Suicide Race and dance with live Arena runs by royalty follow, with the grounds, with day and weekend Preceding the Thursday night music by the Night Riders. Stampede Queen Vanessa Pershing, passes available. Flaggers will be on rodeo is the annual Wrangler Kids’ Other Friday events include Tonasket, reigning over the event. hand to help direct traffic at the end of Night, starting at 4 p.m. in the arena. continuation of both art shows, the Assisting the cowboys will be each rodeo performance. Youngsters can compete in a variety encampment and the carnival, bullfighters Erick Schwindt and Logan Separate parking fees apply in the of games and a dress-up contest; opening of the Christians in Action Blasdell, and clown and barrelman J.J. encampment area. The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 5 STAMPEDE AT A GLANCE

Wednesday, Aug. 7 7 p.m. Omak Stampede Omak Stampede Arena After rodeo World-Famous Suicide Race Suicide Hill, arena 10 a.m.to 6 p.m. Stampede Museum Association museum opens After race Dance with the Night Riders Arena beer garden 410 E. Second Ave. 5 to 11 p.m. Davis Shows carnival West end of park Evening Omak Stampede Indian Encampment opens Saturday, Aug. 10 East end of park All day Omak Stampede Indian Encampment East end of park 10 a.m.to 6 p.m. Stampede Museum Association museum Thursday, Aug. 8 410 E. Second Ave. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Omak Western and Native Art Show opens 8 a.m. Kick-off Ride-in Fairgrounds to East Side Park Omak Elks Lodge, 110 S. Ash St. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stampede Museum Association museum 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Autographs and Athletes 410 E. Second Ave. Jess Auto, 707 Okoma Drive 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Omak Western and Native Art Show 10:30 a.m. “Eagle Boy” showing Mirage Theater, 101 S. Main St. Omak Elks Lodge, 110 S. Ash St. 11 a.m. to midnight Davis Shows carnival West end of park 1 to 6 p.m. Cowboys and Indians Invitational Art Show reception 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Cowboys and Indians Invitational Art Show RockWall Cellars, 110 Nichols Road RockWall Cellars, 110 Nichols Road 4 p.m. Wrangler Kids’ Night Omak Stampede Arena 2 p.m. Omak Western and Native Art show reception, live auction 5 to 11 p.m. Davis Shows carnival West end of park Omak Elks Lodge, 110 S. Ash St. 5:30 to 8 p.m. Stampede Outreach Triangle Park 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Stampede Outreach Triangle Park 6 p.m. Omak Stampede Indian Encampment opening ceremonies 7 p.m. Omak Stampede Omak Stampede Arena East end of park After rodeo World-Famous Suicide Race Suicide Hill, arena 7 p.m. Omak Stampede Omak Stampede Arena After race Dance with the Night Riders Arena beer garden After rodeo World-Famous Suicide Race Suicide Hill, arena After race DJ music by Jason Brown Arena beer garden Sunday, Aug. 11 Friday, Aug. 9 All day Omak Stampede Indian Encampment East end of park All day Omak Stampede Indian Encampment East end of park 8:30 a.m. Western church service, Stampede Outreach 9 a.m. Slack for timed events Omak Stampede Arena Triangle Park 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Omak Western and Native Art Show opens 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Omak Western and Native Art Show Omak Elks Lodge, 110 S. Ash St. Omak Elks Lodge, 110 S. Ash St. 10 a.m.to 6 p.m. Stampede Museum Association museum 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Stampede Museum Association museum 410 E. Second Ave. 410 E. Second Ave. 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Cowboys and Indians Invitational Art Show 10 a.m. Omak Stampede grand parade Downtown RockWall Cellars, 110 Nichols Road 11 a.m. Davis Shows carnival West end of park 3 p.m. “Eagle Boy” showing Mirage Theater, 101 S. Main St. 1 p.m. Omak Stampede Omak Stampede Arena 4 p.m. to midnight Davis Shows carnival opens West end of park After rodeo World-Famous Suicide Race Suicide Hill, arena 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Stampede Outreach Triangle Park After race Suicide Race winner named Paddock area

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By AL CAMP Keeping bull riders safe are The Chronicle bullfighters Erick Schwindt of Prineville, Ore., and Logan OMAK — The 86th Omak Blasdell of Prineville, Ore. J.J. Stampede rodeo runs Aug. 8-11, Harrison, who grew up in with traditional rodeo events plus Okanogan, is the clown. wild horse races and the 84th Stock contractors are Big Bend World-Famous Suicide Race. Rodeo and Flying 5 Rodeo. Steve Show times are 7 p.m. Aug. 8- Kenyon is the announcer. 10, and 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 12. Thursday, Friday and Saturday The Sunday performance is an performances begin with a wild hour earlier than the traditional horse race. The World-Famous starting time so people can get out Suicide Race caps each of the four of the mid-day heat earlier, say rodeo performances. Stampede officials. The overall Suicide Race Admission will be charged, winner will be crowned Sunday in with prices varying depending on the paddock area. seating section and performance. Rodeo events include tie- Thursday is family night, Friday is down roping, steer wrestling, Tough Enough to Wear Pink night team roping, bareback and saddle and Sunday is Patriot Day. bronc riding, bull riding, barrel Al CAMP | The Chronicle Slack for timed events will be racing and, added this year, Cody DeMoss Heflin rides to a score of 81 points. at 9.m. Friday. Admission is free. breakaway roping.

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Celebrating a world-famous tradition By AL CAMP Sunday, Aug. 4, on Suicide Hill, owned by Shawnnae and Oliver race. “We were going to take a big The Chronicle with competitors running down Pakootas and ridden by Pakootas. leap out there (into river). the hill, across the Okanogan River There were three other horses “Pretty crazy weekend,” he said. ntries will open Friday, Aug. 2, and into the Omak Stampede within striking distance if Eagle “Been a long time with that many E for the 84th World-Famous Arena. Veterinary checks that day Boy faltered and did not score horses still in the running. I’m Suicide Race. run from 1-2 p.m. Sunday. proud of him. He likes to go for it.” Qualifying runs have been A Calcutta, open to anyone, will They included Lonesome with “I saw Onyx go over the back of ongoing since July 20. Free, follow vet checks. seven points, Black Shay with six a horse that cut in front of him,” mandatory veterinary checks were Last year’s overall winner, Eagle points and Jackpot with five points. said Abrahamson, who said Onyx July 20-21. Boy, entered the record books as Scoring for the four races then rolled. “It’s a hard deal. Entries open at 6 p.m. Friday only the second four-straight competed after each performance Everyone wants to control their and close at 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 overall World-Famous Suicide of the Omak Stampede from horse at the bottom.” for the race, which is run after each Race champion. Thursday to Sunday was five Eagle Boy, as he likes to do, performance of the Omak “Winning four times means a points for first, four points for jumped upriver into the Stampede Aug. 8-11. lot to my family,” said owner and second, three points for third, two Okanogan, which was pretty low A meeting is planned after jockey Scott Abrahamson at the points for fourth and a point for last year. The speedy horse made entries close to determine whether time. “This horse is amazing. He’s fifth. up ground on the far shore and up there will be elimination races the greatest horse. The horse with the most points the ramp to the finish in the rodeo Sunday or perhaps a jackpot race. “Last year Eagle Boy had sewed after four races earned the overall arena. When more than 20 horses qualify up the title on Saturday. This year championship. Right behind Eagle Boy with 10 and enter, elimination races are we had to go for it.” That’s what Eagle Boy and Scott points each were Jackpot, ridden held to narrow the field to 20 Eagle Boy entered last year’s Abrahamson did, earning the top by Edward Marchand and owned horses for the actual races. Sunday race of four with nine prize by grinding out a third-place by Bronson Peterson, and Black If qualification races are points and a one-point lead in the finish Sunday. The three points Shay, owned by Jonathan needed, they would start at 3 p.m. standings over Onyx, which was went with a second on Thursday Abrahamson and Babe Palmer and first on Friday to produce 12 with jockey Riley Prescott. points. A dozen horses earned at least Abrahamson said Eagle Boy one point to produce some of the was skittish the first three races tightest racing seen in many years. before settling down Sunday. There were fields of 19 for “Sunday was the only day he Thursday and Friday’s races, 14 on stood on the line. We are usually Saturday and nine on Sunday. bad on the line,” Abrahamson said. The only other horse to win “Today he stood like a rock. We four straight since the advent of flew off the hill like I wanted, too. four races in 1979 was Taz from He was smooth.” 2012 to 2015. Onyx, which had the easiest The 2015 race ended in a tie path to get past Eagle Boy by being with Eagle Boy, which now shares only a point back, rode right with the record of four straight with Taz. the leaders of the nine-horse field Those winning overall to the bottom of Suicide Hill. championships three straight years That’s when disaster struck, include Loren Marchand and Taz with the horse being cut off just from 2008 to 2010 (horse did not before jumping into the Okanogan compete in 2011) and Les Moses AL CAMP | The Chronicle River. on Ace from 1987 to 1989. Jackpot with Edward Marchand (3) leads Spirit and Alex “We landed on top of Jackpot Taz retired in 2016 with 23 race McCraigie (11) as horses leave the Okanogan River en route on the bottom of the hill,” said a victories (second most ever) and to the Omak Stampede Arena during the 2018 Sunday race. subdued Oliver Pakootas after the seven overall championships. 8 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Hundreds expected for encampment

OMAK — The annual Omak Stampede Indian Encampment opens Thursday, Aug. 8, and continues through Sunday Aug. 11, with dancing, drumming and stick game competitions. The encampment is at the east end of East Side Park, with dancing and drumming in the dance arbor and stick games in an adjacent location. The event generally draws 200-300 dancers of all ages and from all over the Northwest, Montana and Canada. Many participants camp in tepees, along with tents, trailers and motorhomes. Arts, crafts and food vendors will open Wednesday and continue through Sunday. Stick games are ongoing throughout the weekend. Thursday brings opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. The Chronicle The Grand entries are planned Friday evening, Saturday afternoon and evening, and Sunday afternoon. Drum roll calls precede the start of dancing. Prizes will be given in several age divisions in different dance styles. CAMP | DEE Omak Inn

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Cont. Lic. #OMAKMS1100Q9 826-1030 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 9 Museum honors Stampede history, heritage By DEE CAMP 94. The Chronicle Copenhaver, a world champion bronc rider, also was a OMAK — The Stampede staunch Stampede supporter and Museum Association’s museum, donated one of his championship opened in 2017, will be open saddles to the museum. during this year’s rodeo week. He died Feb. 6 at age 94. The museum is scheduled to Both were present at the be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. museum’s dedication in August Aug. 4-11 at Omak Avenue and 2017. East Second Avenue near the “We’re now to the point we Omak Visitor Information Center. can preserve the pioneering Admission is free; donations are days,” said Copenhaver during accepted. the dedication ceremony. Diana Parker, one of the Parker said Copenhaver’s museum’s organizers, noted the saddle is displayed on a stand he building is air conditioned. made at age 93 from wood from The museum, built with the old Stampede Arena, which donations, will offer a special was razed when the new arena tribute to the late Bunny DeTro was built in 2009. and Deb Copenhaver, both of The museum includes whom died within the past year. displays about Stampede history, DeTro, a longtime Omak memorabilia, photographs and Stampede Board member, long other items. It offers a view of had a dream of having a museum Suicide Hill and the arena, and a to house and preserve historical sculpture of rearing horses - a artifacts related to Stampede, the tribute to the spirit horse - by DEE CAMP | The Chronicle World-Famous Suicide Race and Omak artist Smoker Marchand. Longtime friends Deb Copenhaver (left) and Bunny DeTro Omak Indian Encampment. Parker said visitors can look greet each other at the 2017 dedication of the Stampede She died Dec. 21, 2018, at age for new displays. Museum Association facility in Omak.

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10 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Stampede bids farewell to three Hall of Famers will DeTro, Years of the Omak Stampede.” 94, died DeTro loved to travel, and be honored Dec. 21, was involved with her church, 2018, in the Omak Visitor Information with empty saddles Spokane. Center and the Okanogan She was County Art Club for many years. By DEE CAMP born in Baker, 74, died June 29 in The Chronicle Canada Omak. and served She was born in Oliver, B.C., OMAK — Two longtime in the and moved to Omak in 1965. Omak Stampede volunteers and women’s Baker Copenhaver DeTro She loved horses, arts and a world champion cowboy who division of on many crafts, reading and fishing, and called Omak his “rodeo home” the Royal Canadian Air Force occasions. She stayed involved was active in the Ghost Rivers will be honored during this during World War II. She and in Stampede and became the horse club. She and her year’s rodeo with empty saddle her late husband, Russel DeTro, first female member of the husband, Mike Baker, met in tributes. also a Canadian Air Force organization’s board of director. the Ghost Riders and married in Bunny DeTro, Sandy Baker veteran, moved to Riverside in She also was the first female 1980. and Deb Copenhaver will be 1946 and ran H. DeTro and Son, Professional Rodeo Cowboys They were involved in remembered during this year’s DeTro’s Country Mercantile and Association gold card holder. Stampede for many years, first rodeo, which runs Aug. 8-11. DeTro’s Western Store for more Her long-held dream was to as carriers of the American and DeTro, Baker and than 40 years. build a museum for Stampede. Canadian flags, and later as Copenhaver all were members They had three children, In 2017, the Stampede Museum parking directors and grand L of the Omak Stampede Hall of Virginia (Ginger), James and Association museum, built by parade organizers. Fame. DeTro was inducted in Scott. volunteer efforts, was dedicated She worked for Omak Wood 1994, Baker7 and her husband, After their daughter became in her honor. Products and later earned her Mike, in 2015 and Copenhaver Miss Omak Stampede in 1964, She also co-edited a book associate degree in business. in 1978. the couple served as chaperones produced by The Chronicle, “70 She worked as assistant Omak Lube & Wash Inc. Locally, Independently Owned and Operated 701 Omache Drive, Omak Omache Shopping Center 509-826-6097 These Coupons! '/ 1$'(!'1 ! " + )+# ,'*.%#-0(& -(! -" +1,-' +# '%0, +/# 1 )0% -- +# ,1(-+#% +#+ , 12#+ ,1#+ , " 1.,-(&" %,1+-(+#+ ,1, #+ ,1%#!'& '- "$ + , '-(.)(''+ #/ ( , +/# , $" -"+(.!".!.,- # # 1(.'- 1 #+ -(+! 1 #% ##!" (--#(',1 #++ ,,.+ " $, The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 11 manager of Omak Burger King rodeo trail full time and by the until her retirement. early 1950s, was winning Copenhaver, two-time world consistently. En route to his champion saddle bronc rider 1955 saddle bronc world and many-time Omak Stampede championship, he traveled more competitor, died Feb. 6 at his than 90,000 from coast to coast home in Creston. He was 94. and into Canada, according to Copenhaver called Omak his the Professional Rodeo “rodeo home.” He was in the Cowboys Association. Omak Stampede, ProRodeo and Copenhaver was known as a Ellensburg Rodeo halls of fame. “thinking” rider, according to a “He’s been a true supporter story about him on Wrangler of Stampede and rodeo life in Network. He started the style of general,” said Sarah Grooms, the “dehorned” saddle, now Stampede office manager. “He required in saddle bronc riding never wavered in his support for competition. rodeo.” The dehorned saddle came Family and love of the Lord about partly by accident. After a were important to him. bronc mashed the horn when it During dedication of the ran into the unsaddling chute, Stampede Museum Association’ Copenhaver whittled off the rest museum in August 2017, of the horn and a new style was Copenhaver reminisced about born, said Wrangler Network. the early days of rodeo and the His last ride came in 1974 in people involved. Pendleton, Ore. He joked about the early Copenhaver served on the days, in the 1930s and 1940s: PRCA board of directors from “Day money here, in the 1986 to 1989. beginning, wasn’t that much. After retiring from You had to be proud of your competition, he bred and raised sport.” quarter horses near Creston and Among items displayed at operated Deb’s Cafe for many the museum is Copenhaver’s years in town. The restaurant, 1947 Omak Stampede all- now closed, was known for its around championship saddle, steak nights and country bands which sits on a frame he built Copenhaver brought in to play especially for the museum and AL CAMP | The Chronicle on Saturday nights. the saddle from wood salvaged A rider leads an empty-saddled horse during a tribute at Copenhaver also taught at a from the old arena, which was the 2017 Stampede rodeo school in Idaho and razed when the new arena was preached the gospel. built in 2009. City, and from Pendleton, Ore., Colville Indian Reservation. He He and his late wife, Cheryl, Copenhaver won the saddle to Salinas, Calif., Denver, Colo., hit the rodeo trail, competing had five children, sons Jeff, bronc world championship in and Fort Worth, Texas. first in Keller in 1939. Matt and Guy, and daughters 1955 and 1956. He also won The Wilbur native worked Copenhaver enlisted in the Deborah and Kelly. Jeff was the titles in many rodeos, from on ranches during the Seabees at age 17 during World 1975 world champion calf roper; Calgary, Alberta, to Madison Depression and then caught and War II. Deborah was a former Miss Square Garden in New York rode wild horses near the By 1948, he was back on the Rodeo Washington.

Delap Orchards & Fruitstand C e taste the uits r lab Luscious, juicy peaches and nectarines #(% "'&$ &' Eat now or freeze #!'#+#( Available at our fruitstand or Okanogan Farmers Market *+&) '# $+#( Legion Park, Okanogan Sat. 9-1 $%&"'"!#&'! #%% "& or Omak Civic League Park, Tues., 3:30-6:30 Fruitstand: Mon.-Sat. 9-6 • Sun. Noon-5 Hwy. 97, Milepost 275 • Malott • 509-422-3145 $''+ #% +###!-, 12 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Queen’s passion for rodeo shines By KATIE TEACHOUT through. They do dancing and The Chronicle have a lot of hand-crafted items and their tipis,” said Pershing. OMAK – This year’s Omak “We go to the carnival and do Stampede Queen Vanessa rides, and visit the vendors Pershing is enjoying representing outside the arena. The food court the stampede as she has been always has really good food. And traveling around the state and during the Stampede, there are beyond this past year. other events going on through “I've been all over town, like the art show. Washington, and just got back The Western and Native from the Calgary Stampede,” said American Art Show is displayed Pershing in early July. “I met a lot at the Omak Elks Lodge. of world champions there, and A 2016 graduate of Tonasket had one tell me she loves the High School where she was the Omak Stampede.” softball pitcher, on varsity Pershing will be traveling to volleyball three years and a Joseph, Oregon for Chief Joseph basketball cheerleader, Pershing Days the last week of July. said she got her inspiration to run “We went to Olympia and for Stampede Queen from past visited the capital in April, and royalty members. visited with state legislators and “My best friend's sister was lawmakers,” said Pershing. “That the Stampede Queen a few years was a really cool opportunity, ago, and it looked so much fun,” and I learned a lot. It was said Pershing. “I always wanted incredible to see what happens to be more involved in the during the session.” community, and I love riding Pershing attended the Armed JENNIFER TOLLEFSON PHOTOGRAPHY horses, so I thought this would be Forces Torchlight parade during Omak Stampede Queen Vanessa Pershing. a good way to do that while the Spokane Lilac Festival in promoting the rodeo.” May. had to take.” “The Suicide Race is a Pershing said she helped the “That was a very long parade, Pershing said she has been longtime favorite of mine,” said former queen, 2013 Omak but really incredible to enjoying the summer here when Pershing. “We've watched it from Stampede Queen Brianna experience,” said Pershing. Her not on the road. the top of the hill and down a Howell, when she was out on the traveling partners are her mother, “I ride for fun, trail rides and little bit, and from the dike and road, and she and Lexi Howell Dyann Pershing and her younger barrel racing when I'm not busy,” the arena. It's cool every way. served as pooper scoopers when brother. said Pershing. “There are barrel One year we got to watch it from Brianna rode in parades. Lexi Pershing expressed races at the Stampede Grounds the top of the ferris wheel at the went on to become the appreciation for employers, Cole every few weeks, and I race some carnival. We happened to be at Okanogan County Fair Queen in and Michelle Garcia of the at home.” the top when the gun went off.” 2016. Grocery Outlet in Omak, allowing She said while not able to race Pershing said she looks “I have been around horses all flexibility in her schedule. in the Stampede as it is a PRC forward to all the events the my life, since I was a baby, and “My bosses have been so great Rodeo that requires membership, Omak Stampede has to offer. riding and rodeoing since I was a and amazing,” said Pershing. “It's always been a dream of mine “The Indian Encampment little kid, so it's always been a “They have been so to be a barrel racer in the Omak and the pow wow are a cool passion and something I've loved understanding of the time off I've Stampede.” cultural experience to go to do.”

We can c r mostmostt anythinga y y need! d! ProPr viding CU OMOMTS er svco olutions in as. vanyl and cvin vanyl as. Shade solutions, tarps, ection ftopr A VTor s, ts, snoboa wmobiles. 144-59-32250 A, WersideRiv A, The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 13

Pershing did junior rodeo we came home during vacation to bull riders.” wrote mine about the spirit and the while living in Las Vegas and see the Stampede.” Pershing will hold the crown freedom of the horse; the feeling it Texas before moving to Her horse, a quarter-horse until November, then it will be brings me and the symbol of the Washington state with her family in mare named Justa McBride was handed off to the next queen. horse in Western American culture.” 2012, and has attended the Omak purchased from the Waggoner Pershing said the process to Asked what she would say to Stampede every year since 2013. Ranch in Texas. become queen started with filling girls who are considering running “I've been a huge fan of all the “She's named after one of my out an application to be reviewed for Stampede queenshe replied, “I royalty ever since I was just a little favorite bull riders, Justin McBride, by the board, followed by a pageant would say do it. It's so much fun, kid attending the Stampede. I but the girl version of the name,” in the fall featuring horsemanship, and such an honor to carry the didn't live here my whole life; my said Pershing. “He's an Oklahoma modeling and public speaking. title and represent not just the mom is from here and my dad cowboy who won the PBR World “You need to show you can ride, rodeo, but your community when (Mike Pershing) served in the Championship back in 2005 on a it's a big component of the job,” you are wearing that title. It is military for a lot of years, so we pretty cool ride. Both horses I used said Pershing. “You write a speech such an incredible honor to be lived in Las Vegas and Texas. But to ride are named after my favorite to present during the pageant. I able to do all that.” Omak couple named grand marshals

By AMBER HEDINGTON Corps. for two years. Chamber of Commerce,” she The Chronicle “They should have been said. nominated a long time ago for Jim and Linda have three OMAK — Jim and Linda going above and beyond for the children: Gary Smith, Brian Lewis have been named this community,” Omak Stampede Lewis, and Trisha Lewis, and year’s Omak Stampede grand Office Manager Sarah Grooms three grandchildren. marshals. said. “The Lewises have been Jim and Linda became Jim was a member of the involved in the Omak involved in the Omak Omak Stampede Board from Stampede, chamber and Stampede because Linda’s step 1971-1993 and was inducted community for many years. father Lou Donaldson was the into the Omak Stampede Hall “Jim was involved in coaching treasurer for many years. of Fame in 1993. baseball and was the treasurer for The couple will celebrate Linda was an associate the Omak Stampede, while Linda their 52nd wedding member of the Stampede board had been the president of the anniversary Friday, Aug. 9. from 1971-1991. Linda was also SUBMITTED PHOTO the Stampede office manager Jim and Linda Lewis. for 14 years. Jim was a member of the and Linda have volunteered at Omak School Board for 13 the Omak Elks Lodge for 52 years. He coached Little League years and are both members. baseball for 18 years and Babe Jim was born in Brigham Ruth baseball for five years. City, Utah, in 1943. Linda was Jim has been part of the born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in crew that hangs flags in 1943. Jim and Linda both Residential downtown Omak for the graduated from Omak High Chamber of Commerce for 15 School in 1961. Commercial years. Linda ran Donaldson’s Jim graduated from Central Antiques until Washington University in 1971 New construction, her retirement and is the and Linda attended Kinman remodel, repairs past president of the Omak Business School for one year Chamber of Commerce. Jim and was in the U.S. Marine

! (#'$" % "( # % ") " $ Serving the Okanogan for over 40 years! # $ ) & !"! " ! #"#!" 14 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash.

LATE-NIGHT DANCING Stampede pays tribute to two nations

By BROCK HIRES Canadian anthem. The Chronicle The next night, Kristy Hennigar will perform “The OMAK — There’s no Star-Spangled Banner,” and shortage of talent to honor Jody Evans will pay tribute to America and Canada at Omak neighbors to the north with “O Stampede rodeo Canada.” performances. Saturday evening, Amy Each year, Stampede has Kraut will perform the national open auditions for people anthem and Tonasket resident interested in singing anthems Mike Stansbury will perform during the four rodeo the Canadian anthem. performances. For the final rodeo On Thursday, Aug. 8, Jayden performance Sunday, Aug. 11, AL CAMP | The Chronicle Tonasket will perform the Samantha Hinger and Nicole The Night Riders will perform post-rodeo dances Friday and national anthem and LaDaija Leese will perform anthems, Saturday, Aug. 9 and 10, at the east end of the Omak Austin will perform the respectively. Stampede arena. Band members are Glen Lisenbey, Tom McCoy, Artie Litscher, Brock Hires and Gary Bowling.

+(($-!''$& ' %#,'* $"& )" " %" $#( The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 15 16 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Okanogan County Artists 39th Annual Western & Native Art Show Original Fine Art Exhibit and Sale August 8, 9 and 10 • 10 a.m.-7 p.m. August 11 • 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Omak Elks Lodge, 110 S. Ash, Omak

$ ! )%+#''%#(*&& " George L. Traicheff Original Oils • Pen & Ink • Mixed Mediums !!' #($# "+-$"-& %"##./0!&"!-/ #( *+'$&# # / +(" !". "03 -/. +*/-"(0"-/./0!"*/5. " #'# "$0" "2 +-' " % #( #$&$*& (.+2.0*!"-/%"/0/"($"+# -&'% #(' + "-/+0$%""!*!(-"* " &(("*&0. &. -++/. &* -/ + !! +'(&#&( ./-/"! 2&/% /%" ./0!4 +# # "!%$&(& (' +-&"*/( ,&*/&*$ 2&/% ./"- !#'%'# +)++ $!) ! #' +3 -+1&((" ./$, /-& %"##-/ .%2 &# (!!' The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 17 Local and visiting artists demonstrate their skills Reception: Saturday, Aug. 10, 2-5 p.m. Live auction: Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Meet the artists! Awards: • Best of Show • Best Western • Best Native American • Best Local Heritage • 2020 Poster Award • People’s Choice

Ron Adamson The Art of Original Western Art Tina Reeve Sculptures: Wood, Bronze, Stone Tharp At the O.C.A. Western & Native Art Show

Always Showcased at THE CHRONICLE 618 Okoma Drive, Omak West of Willow Studio Adamson Studio and Artwork %UHZVWHU:$Ƈ www.ronadamson.com • 406-291-4112 Adamson Studio: 185 Bald Eagle Road, Libby, Montana 59923

Bruce Townsend- l ll f d etareenoCeivoC d Tr bai l b remem Cook eehctaneW,sekaLehtfo dnae Local artist .sdnaBtaitnE • Glass • Painting • Fabric painting ehtsitraregdeL tahtnoitidartdlo • Mixed media afoyrotsasllet .tnevetnacifingis uaetalPs’lyrehC traregdeLelytSu • Glass blowing emocsnoitaerc labirtrehmorfe ,erutluc &yrotsih 509-422-3607 anoitidart secneulfnil 18 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash.

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Desert Rose Studio

A Washington artist who paints on canvas and glass Christmas ornaments

Sinkietqu Okanogan Basketweavers Association Traditional and Contemporary Northwest Native American basketry Unique items for sale The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 19 New, returning contract acts on tap By AMBER HEDINGTON Rodeo Cowboys Association The Chronicle member since September 2011. Harrison, 44, is another OMAK — A familiar lineup Stampede returnee. The of arena entertainers and safety Okanogan High School personnel will be joined this graduate, who now lives in year by a new specialty act, Walla Walla is known for his Cowgirl Sweethearts — Haley wild antics, dancing and Ganzel and Lindy Nealey-Lica. inflatable “fat” suits. Bullfighters Eric Schwindt Harrison found an interest in will return, along with rodeo in high school, which led clown/barrelman J.J. Harrison, to his being on the Washington and bullfighter Logan Blasdell. State University Rodeo team. Nealey-Lica, 28, of “I tried all events but bull Bloomington, Ill., has riding was what I really love” he performed in rodeos, wild West said. “But due to the fact I’m a shows and dinner theaters for big sissy, I stuck with roping.” more than half of her life. He has taught middle school She graduated with a degree for eight years and enjoys every in environmental science from second he spends with kids. the University of Illinois, and “I never want to grow up and after graduation was asked to the best way to do that is hang perform stunt work on the film with kids,” he said. ‘Cowgirls and Angels 2: Dakota’s He has become one of the Summer’. most sought after rodeo clowns Nealey is an accomplished in the Northwest and shows no trick rider and roman rider. She signs of stopping. appeared as a trick rider at Dolly “I always worry that people Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner will someday realize it’s not an Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., act,” he said. “It’s just who I am.” where she had performed more Blasdell, 28, ofPrineville, than 800 shows a year. Ore., will join this year’s safety Ganzel, 24, of Collinsville, personnel lineup. Okla., has been trick riding since Blasdell attended Feather the age of for, after learning the River College from 2009-2011 trade from her uncle, NFR and studied agricultural contract act Shawn Brackett. business. Blasdell has been Ganzel’s passion for trick bullfighting professionally with riding and performing began the PRCA since 2012. when she was young and had In 2016, Blasdell married his the opportunity to travel with wife, Kaley Mae Hook, who is the Great American Wild West the owner of KMH bucking bulls Show to many of the greatest in Shandon, Calif. In 2017, the rodeo venues in the United couple welcomed a son named States. Ridge Thomas Blasdell. In 2007, Ganzel was crowned as the 2007 World Champion Trick Rider; she also competed in the 2016 North American Trick Riding Championships in Las Vegas and had a role and performed stunt work in the films ‘Cowgirls and Angels’ and ‘Cowgirls and Angels 2: Dakota’s Summer’. Schwindt, 27, is a native of Modesto, Calif., and grew up in Lyons, Ore. He said he watched his older brother ride bulls and later a friend, Jesse Tennet, fight bulls. He attended a Danny Newman AL CAMP | The Chronicle school and was hooked. J.J. Harrison will return to He has been a Professional this year’s Stampede 20 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Tongel is this year’s featured artist By KATIE TEACHOUT of the buffalo. The Chronicle Another one, called “Celebration,” features a Native OMAK — Georgia Orr American man on an Appaloosa Tongel, this year's featured artist surrounded by an arch of 16 tipis in the Western and Native Art with symbols from all over the Show, enjoyed success as a U.S. commercial artist in New York “People love to celebrate, and L.A. before returning to her whether it's a new baby or a native home of Okanogan good marriage,” said Tongel. “I County. tried to not do any one symbol Her or tribe, I tried to generalize. The artwork has tipis are Plateau Indian style, changed with which a lot of tribes adapted to – her travels, including our tribe--because from technical they are easy-up and mobile. and detailed They use canvas now instead of pen and ink skin.” drawings for Tongel is currently working newspaper on an acrylic painting of a skin ads to oil painting which Tongel found a paintings with Tongel photograph of in her extensive a palette knife. research library. The skin She now favors acrylic paints as painting includes “symbols from they dry faster and are more two different women and their KATIE TEACHOUT | The Chronicle amenable to changes. imagination.” Tongel, a Colville Tribal Another feature in much of Georgia Orr Tongel painted this Grass Dancer from a pow member, said her painting Tongel's current work is baskets. wow in the Northwest using oils and a palette knife in the chosen for this year's poster, One called “Huckleberry early '90s. Her recent work is in acrylics. “Appaloosa in Time,” is based on Season” shows a cedar-root an award-winning racehorse in basket holding huckleberries, Kentucky whose colors she with a smaller one worn while loved. picking the berries. A corn husk “The Appaloosas are bag holds the berry picker's prancers, they like attention,” lunch, often containing dried said Tongel. “They know they venison and camas, a bulb root are beautiful and love to strut that comes out in early spring. their stuff.” The gloves in the painting were “Appaloosa in Time” includes made by Tongel's grandmother, symbols representing the Josephine George of the Appaloosas being loved by Wenatchee Band of the Yakima royalty, the wealthy and Native Tribe. Americans throughout time. “She did the bead work on Tongel is incorporating elk or deer hide for whatever Native American symbols in was wanted. Elk was very hard- most of her paintings these days. wearing and long-lasting, and “The symbols are from all the she would use doe or fawn for a different bands. They all had finer quality,” said Tongel. their own special images and “Women could order all symbols,” said Tongel, adding different lengths.” she includes them out of respect Tongel's signature on her for their way of life. “I am just paintings, Georgia Orr Tongel, feeling in awe of what they did includes “Nahumnla,” which so long ago, and the conditions was her grandmother's name for in which they lived. It's just her, as she couldn't pronounce amazing what they did. Today “Georgia.” we have it so easy and take so She said her married name much for granted.” “Tongel” was shortened from A painting of a buffalo called the Belgian Van Tongel by her “Shield of Defiance” includes husband Jayme when he feathers illustrating successful became an American citizen. coups, buffalo tails, a medicine Tongel said after going to school bag and a half-circle of bullets in Brazil and working at a studio symbolizing the near-extinction in Rio de Janeiro, he The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 21 moved to New York and took a job with Abraham and Strauss in Brooklyn. “That's where we met,” Tongel said of her husband. Her own path to New York began, in part, with a scholarship to Gonzaga from the Colville Confederated Tribes. Her senior year was spent in Gonzaga's program at the Accademia Della Vella Art in Florence, Italy; where Michelangelo studied. Graduating from there in 1966, she headed straight for New York. “I had my portfolio all ready, and I was determined to go into advertising,” said Tongel. Taking a temporary job at Macy's, she hit the streets with her portfolio and three months later landed the job at Abraham and Strauss. “Jayme was working there in Tongel makes prints of her originals, including this piece called “Huckleberry Gathering.” the advertising department,” said Tongel. “It was so nice working Tongel said while some artists don't reproduce their work, it gives her a good feeling to with all those artists in a do so. “So many Indians I know do not have baskets anymore, and they buy a print and it wonderful atmosphere.” gives them something of their heritage.” Tongel's work involved very detailed pen and ink drawings poster artist in 2011, following his Cheri Bjur, Linda Vance and away in May. He was an avid for black and white newspaper death in 2010. Suzette Cheshier. hiker and mountain climber and ads. “I'm very happy here, and feel Bob Walton, who was the his paintings reflected his love of “They liked me because I fortunate,” said Tongel. She was poster artist for the art show in the outdoors. He was also an could draw both the very tight, recently asked to create a logo for both 2011 and 2013, will be artist for Leaning Tree greeting realistic stuff and the pretty girls the Sinkietqu Okanogan missed this year after passing cards. showing the jewelry,” said Basketweavers Association, who Tongel. From there the couple will be showing at the Western moved to L.A. and Native American Art Show “That's where we did really for the first time this year. The well,” said Tongel. “We made very group formed in 2015, and some good money, and after four years of the members traveled to had saved enough to buy a Washington, D.C. last year, where condo in Rio de Janeiro to be by they demonstrated their art at the Jayme's mother.” Smithsonian Institution. Tongel When they returned to L.A. said she had great appreciation five years later, with Jayme for the way the women use the working for J.C. Penney and old traditions to do their work. Georgia for Buffims in Long They use tulles, cedar, cedar Island, they found themselves bark, bear grass and hemp to “outdated” by the newly create the baskets. Their mission burgeoning computer age. statement is to preserve, “So, we moved here in 1991,” promote, protect and perpetuate said Georgia. “I went full-circle. traditional and contemporary Born in Nespelem and went back Northwest Native American to Nespelem.” Basketry, and materials and The Tongel's art continued to gathering sites. flourish, and Georgia has Returning artists to this year's participated in the Western and Western and Native American Native American Art Show yearly Art Show include Ron Adamson, since 1997, winning multiple Jack Babcock, Barbara Conner- awards. Her depiction of Reed, Nelda Patison, David Christine Quintasket, the first Craig, Le Ella Day, Cheryl Native American woman to Grunlose, Tom Morrison, Don publish a novel and the first Nutt, Sherry Orchard, Tina Reeve woman elected to the Colville Tharp, Bruce Townsend-Cook Business Council, called and George L. Traicheff. Also “Mourning Dove,” returning are Okanogan County ' $ ' &"# ) was featured on the 2014 Artists members Sarah Stone, ! (#' ($%"( )% ( poster. Jayme was honored as the Shayla Wiggins, Patty Helberg, "$(" 22 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Christians offer music, message

hristians in Action Ccelebrates its 47th year with music, free ice water, Bibles, Western church service and refreshments at the Omak Stampede Aug. 8-11. The inspirational presentations are at Triangle Park between the carnival and rodeo arena. All events are free of admission and sponsored by Christians In Action, a local interdenominational non-profit corporation. Music begins at about 5 p.m. each night and continues until after the rodeos. Nine or more Okanogan County churches plus three out-of-town groups will bring ministry to the gospel stage this year. Also provided is a free continental breakfast with Western church service at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 11. BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle “Many local people will be Loose Change performs at the 2018 Omak Stampede. They will return to the gospel stage glad to reconnect with former Servants Heart band member this year at 7 p.m. Thursday and 9 p.m. Saturday and UPS driver, Jeff Ecklund,” this year’s Christians In Action Christians In Action President gospel stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Kathleen Christensen said. “Jeff Aug. 9. and his wife Robie Ecklund are Combined, Lonnie and lead pastors at House of the Teresa have over 50 years of Lord Church in Oldtown musical experience. Before Idaho.” joining forces, each won They will speak and sing at competitions, includin Teresa’s 6 p.m. Saturday, and at Sunday state finalist in Regional True &*# (-. .# (#-&*' *+$ *+/*.2 Western church service Sunday Value/GMC Showdown and morning. Lonnie’s first place in Seattle’s “In the Okanogan county Worthy Music Talent area, they were Christian Competition. +*&! &+0 !!%&*& musicians, worship leaders, Loose Change will take the # $"!" youth pastors and associate stage at 7 p.m. Thursday and 9 !#(( pastors at New Life Church, p.m. Saturday. #) &( )&$,#) 1*#. Okanogan, while working full The band was originally time in secular employment formed by Kathy Peterson in and raising a family,” +,2#&*"-#() * 1997 and performs a variety of ""!" Christensen said. “They bluegrass, gospel, old-time, continue to write songs, lead and Christian cowboy tunes. !#(( worship, train leaders, and Peterson and husband Rod #) &( '+,2%,#) 1*#. author books. They have live in Aguanga, Calif. She is a recorded several music projects U.S. Forest Service retiree and /))#,(-+* and traveled nationally and strategic planning consultant. "!" internationally doing what they Peterson will be joined by !#(( do anywhere they are sent by April Vaughn, Ark.; Lyn Pearce, #) &( -/))#,+,#) 1*#. God.” Riverside; and Carl and Brenda Award-winning singer- Behrents, Omak. !" #$$ $ ! ' songwriters Lonnie and Teresa Tunk Valley musician Nicole "!% $ $! "!% $&!" Good along with other worship Unser will take the stage at 5 0&-&. !+) team members from Cascade p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10. Bible Church in the Methow "When asked what ‘being &*.34+1 3) ' Valley will also take the stage at country’ means to her, Unser The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 23 responded: “I associate country Parade. with being an honest thing, In 1973, members of the with being a hardworking Omak Presbyterian Church thing, being a dependable and brought KEY ’73 Bibles and the trustworthy thing; by that first cowboy praise service to definition I grew up country.” the Omak Stampede. Over the years Unser’s “Stampeders for Christ” developed a heart for continued yearly with storytelling; a hunger for participants from Omak Free performing; and a passion for Methodist Church and pure, honest, country music. Christian Businessmen “I want to give people what Association, bringing music, so many country albums have Bibles, refreshments and craft. given me: a chance to cry, a The group helped the reason to laugh, a time to bond, sheriff’s department care for a different way of seeing the BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle lost kids also. Incorporated as world- a new perspective, a Christians In Action oﬀer activities for youngsters at last Christians In Action in 1977, realization, a time to reflect,” year’s Omak Stampede. the organization coordinates she said. musicians, speakers, dramas Unser is the 2012 Texaco Tercer Dia (Church of the Third Friday brings Caleb and kids’ activities from a Country Showdown New Day), Tonasket, host two Knowlton and the River variety of churches every year Mexico state champion, a Spanish services at 6:30 p.m. Worship Band from Tonasket since. It also maintains the nationwide talent contest. She Friday and 7 p.m. Saturday. River of Grace Church at 8:30 KMBI 103.9 FM Translator and has played legendary venues The serviceswill include guests p.m.; Shane Marlow with “Sonshine Cross” on Shellrock like the Ryman Auditorium and from El Faro (The Lighthouse) Breathe of Life worship team, Point. Christians in Action Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Assembly of God church, East Wenatchee, will perform provides Bibles to high school Tenn. Oroville. at 9:30 p.m. graduates and sponsors an She will be joined on stage Several other local On Saturday, the Behrent Easter Sonrise Service. with Curtis Willson and Kasey ministries are planned Family Praise Band will For more information call Pinkham of Tonasket Free throughout the weekend, too. perform at 8 p.m. 509-422-4660, visit Methodist Church Thursday brings a local Omak resident Tina www.okanoganchristiansin The Rev. Raul Martinez, brass ensemble and the New Schmidt will perform Sunday action.org, or on Facebook Okanogan, and Eglesia Del Life Worship Team, Okanogan. morning following the Grand @okchristiansinaction. 24 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash.

DEE CAMP | The Chronicle Firefighters keep the crowd cool at the annual grand parade. This year’s parade will be at 10 a.m. Aug. 11.

A variety of parade entries are planned this year. DEE CAMP | The Chronicle Grand parade planned Aug. 13 OMAK — The Stampede includes bands, floats, business grand parade, starts at 10 a.m. entries, rodeo and community Sunday, Aug. 11. royalty, service clubs and other Staging will be on Okoma groups. Drive. Omak Chamber of Parade divisions include Commerce volunteers are childrens entries, community coordinating the event, which floats, commercial entries, goes up Main Street to Apple organizations, political Avenue, west to Ash Street and candidates, mounted royalty, then south. marching bands, mounted drill During the parade, traffic teams, antique cars and public will be routed around the services. downtown areas. Parade entry deadline was The event customarily July 25. The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 25

BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle The annual Stampede ride-in features dozens of horses and horse-drawn wagons though Omak and Okanogan. Ride-in kicks off Thursday morning

OKANOGAN — The A rest stop is planned at the Stampede ride-in is planned Okanogan Eagles Club, 1820 N. for 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 8. Second Ave. Horses and horse-drawn Registration will be from 6- wagons will leave the 8 a.m. Aug. 8 at the fairgrounds Okanogan County main gate. Fairgrounds, 175 Rodeo Trail, Souvenir T-shirts will be and head south to the south available. Organizers ask that bridge in Okanogan. riders register before the ride, Once across the Okanogan have just one rider per horse, River, the procession will head not bring dogs or stallions, north through Okanogan and leave one horse length Omak on Second Avenue, between horses, do not cross Elmway, Okoma Drive, Fourth the centerline, walk their Avenue and Main Street to horses and pass other horses Central Avenue. on the left, letting the rider From there, riders will go know. across the Central Avenue Children under age 12 must bridge to the Stampede Arena, be accompanied by an adult. where they’re asked to make All horses known to be one lap around the arena and kickers must have a red ribbon then exit. tied on the tail. Ending time is estimated at The event is hosted by B&D 11:30 a.m. Ranch. 26 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 27 Davis Shows carnival returns

The Davis Shows amusement company, are hired upon arrival to the carnival is open to the carnival will return to the provides family friendly fun help set up and run the public. Stampede this year with a at locations all across the carnival. Davis Shows is a fourth- variety of rides, games and Pacific Northwest. The small city moves on generation family food. Davis Shows has a base Sunday, travels to Omak on business that has Davis Shows, a traveling crew that travels with the Monday and sets up the been providing the carnival and local people attractions on Tuesday. Stampede with a Come Wednesday evening, carnival for at least 25 years.

BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle Youngsters enjoy the Rock Star ride at Davis Shows carnival at last year’s Omak Stampede.

Davis Shows oﬀers a variety of rides for people of all ages. BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle

THE CHRONICLE The Spider is a blur of color at night at the Davis Shows carnival. 28 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Stampede sees many changes over the years

In 1933 the rodeo that became the Omak Stampede was just a dream of two Okanogan County stockmen, Leo Moomaw and Tim Bernard, who had started a rodeo string in 1932. Stampede is marking its 85th year this year. Moomaw and Bernard approached Omak’s businessmen, who were eager to try anything to keep the Main Street of Omak busy. The little western town, situated in the heart of cattle country, soon pulsated with the thought of having a real live rodeo that would attract thousands of people to see world-famous cowboys perform. Soon world champion cowboys announced they would participate. The lineup included Stub Bathlemay, OMAK STAMPEDE COLLECTION world champion at the Calgary Roundup; Norman Stewart, The Omak High School provided plenty of good parking space in 1933 for the first winner of both Pendleton Stampede. The football field was constructed so that scores of automobiles were able to Roundup and Cheyenne, Wyo., park close enough to aﬀord excellent views of the riders and other contestants Roundup and world’s best bronc rider; Bert Evans, winner and the World-Famous Suicide of the north central Washington Race also was added to the championship in 1932, and lineup. Ralph Sutton, winner at The primitive bleachers, Waterville’s 1933 rodeo. built with volunteer help and Since the Cowboy’s Turtle lumber donated by Biles- Association - which evolved Coleman Lumber Co., seated into the present-day about 750 people. Ross McNett, Professional Rodeo Cowboys president of Biles-Coleman and Association - was not formed president of the Omak until 1936, the rules for riding Chamber of Commerce, was were set down by the convinced by his brother-inlaw, contractors, cowboys and Paul Maley, that the rodeo sponsors of the rodeo. would be a boon for the town. The first two rodeos were on In the early 1940s the Omak the high school athletic field. Active Club took over In 1935 a rodeo committee Stampede under an agreement was formed, with Omak mayor that called for all profits not R.W. Caldwell as president, E.T. required by the Stampede to be Stewart as vice president and used for East Side Park general chairman, E.G. improvements. The park still Hubbert as secretary-treasurer benefits from rodeo proceeds. and Claire Pentz as publicity The Active Club building chairman. committee, headed by Jerry The city had purchased land Bramer, continued to improve on the east side of the the arena with covered Okanogan River from the grandstands that seated about Swimpkin family and planned a 1,500. Bleachers provided children’s park there. seating for about 3,500 fans, Grandstands were built and the with the announcer’s stand 1935 rodeo was held in the built above the chutes. park. Stock was held in eight pens Stampede’s first queen, Bert behind the chutes. In 1949 Robbins, was crowned that year lights were added to the arena, The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 29

race up the bank and into the continuing until his retirement Stampede arena. in 1967. He notched the most The first race attracted what victories on Brownie. has become an annual parade During their heyday in the of news coverage - from 1950s, the pair won 23 of 28 newsreels to television and still races, including 11 in a row. photographers who have In 1959 Rusty Tawes, a spread images of the Suicide vivacious 17-year-old from Race throughout the world. Pendleton, Ore., slipped into It was been featured twice town announcing that she had on TV’s “You Asked for It,” and come to ride in the Suicide in dozens of newspapers, a full- Race. This threw the Stampede length Walt Disney movie, committee into a frenzy. “Run, Appaloosa, Run,” and on With Francis Charette as her national and international mentor, Tawes won entry to the television. The young boy in the race as its first female movie was Casey Nissen, who is competitor. Without a saddle, a Suicide Race winner many only halter and reins, she OMAK STAMPEDE COLLECTION times over. crossed the finish line in sixth A group of Stampede organizers gathers outside the Riders in the 1935 Suicide place. Stampede Branding Corral in the 1930s. Race were Leo Crossland, Since that time many young Leonard St. Peter, Tom Woods, men and women, Indians and enabling night shows. Stampede Inc. and the city Bev Conners, Mathew Dick, whites alike, have experienced Stampede continued to began seeking funding for a Pete Carden, Edward the thrill of the Suicide Race. grow throughout the 1950s and new arena. The state Armstrong, Eddie Parsons, The original race course was 1960s, with continual Legislature ultimately came Wallace Moomaw, Alex Dick slightly west of the current improvements being made to through and, with state and and Bert Evans. Winners were Suicide Hill, which is owned by the arena and grounds. local funding, the new arena Wallace Moomaw, first; Bev the City of Omak. In 1963 the Omak Stampede was completed in time for the Conners, second, and Bert was incorporated as a non- 2009 rodeo. Evans, third. Encampment profit corporation, and took The 1970s chute seats - Alex Dick became the race’s Prior to the Omak Stampede over the event’s operation officially known as the Paul winningest rider, with race Indian Encampment, Native through an elected a board of Maley bleachers - were left in victories starting in 1941 and Americans gathered near the directors and a large group of place. volunteers. In 1969 a Friday night show Suicide Race was added, making the The World-Famous Suicide Stampede a three-day event. Race, Stampede’s signature Seating over the bucking chutes event, began in 1935. Publicity was rebuilt in 1973. Chairman Claire Pentz, in a In 1979 a Saturday matinee search for something exciting was added to the Friday night, to add to Stampede, heard of a Saturday night and Sunday mountain race run by Indians afternoon shows. In 1996 the for many years in the Keller Saturday matinee was replaced area. by a Thursday night show, During the Suicide Race, making Stampede a four-day competitors start 50 feet back event. from the hill’s edge, then After being damaged in a plunge down the embankment 1997 tornado that tore off part and into the Okanogan River. of the grandstand roof, Omak Once they swim the river, they (#$ && & Decor & More "#"! !%!$("#(" Let us help gussy up yr life ents! ' " 30 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. present-day East Side Park. Nickel. They also would come and Robbins was crowned Community pick apples in the area, and to during a public coronation The Omak Stampede and participate in the grand parade ceremony on Main Street. She World-Famous Suicide Race and Fourth of July celebrations. traveled with other rodeo wouldn’t be possible without Early day Stampede boosters to different towns in the support of hundreds of organizers welcomed the the valley to advertise and volunteers who donate their thought of an Indian village. invite people to come to Omak. time and talents toward making Paul Maley and Doc Benson, In 1964 Paul Maley thought each year’s event a success. two of the local businessmen it would be a great idea to have Members of the Stampede involved in the rodeo during its an Indian princess accompany board are volunteers, as are early days, invited the Indians Omak Stampede Queen those who take and sell tickets, to camp at the west end of the Virginia (Ginger) DeTro. Maley sell programs, guide fans to park, across the road from their went to the encampment their seats, sell concessions, original encampment. committee and, with that park cars and do dozens of As the encampment grew, it group’s help, selected Darlene other chores. moved closer to the arena and Moses as the first Stampede The community supports then east to its present spot. OMAK STAMPEDE Indian princess. Stampede directly by Today the encampment is a COLLECTION A Stampede-selected volunteering on the grounds beautiful experience to visit Omak Stampede Hall of princess traveled with Miss and indirectly by organizing and watch dancing, drumming Omak Stampede for about a parades, promotions, and stick games. Fame member Dr. Charles decade, then the Colville downtown activities, an art “Doc” Benson. Confederated Tribes began show and other activities. Royalty queen’s contest. Bertha selecting its own royalty Critical to Stampede are In 1935 Bert (Robbins) Robbins led her closest rival, representatives to travel on specialty acts, clowns and Aveldson was crowned the first Flo Huber, by a margin of a separate schedules. bullfighters, stock contractors, queen of the Omak Stampede million and one-half votes and Three Stampede queens - calf pushers (those folks who by votes that were cast in stores was declared the Omak Shauna Beeman, Jody Wooten help get calves out of the chutes downtown prior to rodeo Stampede queen. and Amanda Emerson - went so they can be roped), those weekend. Others who participated in on to become Miss Rodeo who work the gates and others Queen contest committee the contest were Stella Washington. Another, Jonnie who help in the arena. and staff assistants worked Carraher, Belva Gray, Florine Crossland, was a two-time Miss Without them there would until nearly midnight counting Tucker, Jessamine Clark, Washington State High School be not Omak Stampede or votes that had been cast for the Katherine Kumbera and Evalyn Rodeo. World-Famous Suicide Race. Take care of your drivetrain or you’ll have to nd another way to the Stampede $ "!$ "$ ! $ $ ! # Bob Raymer’s Machine Works $ #

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# # The Chronicle, Omak, Wash. Western Rendezvous, 2019 31 Index of Advertisers Alpine Veterinary Clinic ...... 8 Rockwall Cellars ...... 20 Animal Hospital of Omak ...... 3 Sage Shop ...... 26 Bob Raymer’s Automotive...... 30 Senior Benefit Solutions...... 11 Carey’s Custom Canvas ...... 12 Smallwood Farms ...... 24 Caso’s ...... 27 Stockyard Café ...... 14 Coffee Xpress and Lube ...... 9 Studio Off Main ...... 12 Conconully Chamber of Commerce...... 23 Sunrise Chevrolet ...... 32 D&R Glassworks...... 14 The Club Tavern...... 30 Delap Orchards ...... 11 Thrifty Auto Center ...... 9 DeTro’s Western Store...... 21 Zen Den ...... 2 Don Kruse Electric ...... 13 Fire Cannabis...... 15 Artists Gene’s Harvest Foods ...... 14 David Craig ...... 18 Grandma’s Attic...... 9 Tina Reeve Tharp ...... 17 Gussy Up Rentals ...... 29 Sherry Orchard ...... 16 House of Cannabis ...... 19 Tom and Ginger Creations...... 16 Les Schwab ...... 6 George L. Traicheff ...... 16 Lone Point Cellars...... 28 LeElla Day...... 16 Mac’s Tire...... 30 Don Nutt...... 17 Needlelyn Time ...... 5 Ron Adamson ...... 17 Nespelem Valley Electric ...... 29 Bruce Townsend-Cook...... 17 Okanogan County Historical Museum ...... 13 Cheryl A. Grunlose...... 17 Okanogan County Realty...... 25 Georgia Orr Tongel ...... 18 Omak Auto & RV...... 5 Jack Babcock...... 18 Omak Inn ...... 8 Barbara Conner-Reed...... 18 Omak Machine Shop ...... 8 Sinkietqua Okanogan Basketweavers Association ...... 18 Puttin’ on the Ritz...... 30 Okanogan County Artists ...... 18 Remax Welcome Home ...... 22 32 Western Rendezvous, 2019 The Chronicle, Omak, Wash.