For more years than they probably care to remember, a group of familiar figures has been organizing Barrhead’s Wildrose rodeo.
Names like Adolph Bablitz and Leonard Schmidt have become almost synonymous with the premier event in the town’s sporting calendar. They have done a stellar job in keeping the rodeo in Barrhead and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude.
Now there is a changing of the guard. A new committee to run the rodeo is expected to be formed next month.
It is tempting to call it a case of in with the new, out with the old.
But that would not be strictly true. The new faces, in fact, come from the Barrhead Agricultural Society, of which Bablitz is president.
The committee will deliver reports to the Ag society and seek its approval for funding.
Nevertheless what has happened is significant and should be welcomed by those who claim community leaders are becoming burned out and tired.
Bablitz himself says it is time for him to hand over the rodeo reins and we respect his decision. Relinquishing control requires wisdom and strength.
Once the new committee is formed, it will need the guidance of experienced hands like Bablitz and Schmidt.
Taking on the rodeo responsibility this year, comes with extra pressure. If Barrhead is to submit a bid for another three-year contract, it must do so by August.
It is virtually inconceivable that Barrhead won’t bid again. As a cowboy town, we are a perfect fit for the rodeo.
But that is no excuse for complacency.
As is often said, Whitecourt and Drayton Valley are known to covet our sporting jewel, which means we have to argue our case ever more strongly.
New faces often mean new ideas and new energy. We hope – and have every reason to believe – this will be the case with the new committee.
Perhaps new events can be introduced, perhaps some new side shows, perhaps something as exciting as Mexican Poker.
Whatever is decided, it should be aimed at making Barrhead’s rodeo even more special.
Calling all photography lovers! Have you captured a memorable moment? A beautiful winter sunset? Snapped some wildlife or the family pet doing something comical? If you think your photo is something the community might enjoy, why not send it into the Barrhead Leader's new Photo of the Month challenge?
One photo will be chosen and published in the Leader each month starting in Feb. It will also be displayed in the reception area of the Leader office. High resolution photos should be submitted by the third Friday of the month. Deadline for the first photo of the month is Friday, Feb. 22. All photos can be emailed to [email protected], or dropped off at the office.
Need volunteers? Want to become a volunteer? Well, help is on the way. Starting next month, the Barrhead Leader will be publishing a “Volunteers Registry.” It will include names of organizations seeking volunteers, job descriptions, number of positions available and contact details. We hope our free service will ensure volunteerism remains alive and well in Barrhead. Organizations wishing to take advantage of it should send information to Marion Properzi by phoning 780-674-3823 or emailing her at [email protected]. Registry publication will depend on demand. Help us make it a big success!
