The St. Paul Rodeo

Well it’s that time of year again.  People from all over, put on their dusty (or brand new) boots and head out to St. Paul, Oregon for a show that they will never forget.  The St. Paul Rodeo is celebrating 81 strong years.  img_1486In a town of only 322 it’s incredible that we can find the room to welcome over 60,000 folks on this weekend every year.  But it’s a family tradition that lasts generations for many, it’s a way of life for others, but for many of us it’s a weekend of reuniting with old friends, cheering on those brave enough for an 8 second ride, and celebrating our freedom and all that comes with the good ‘ol 4th of July.

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It’s flags flying and the pride you feel as Mary Ann Zielinski belts out the National Anthem more beautifully than you have ever heard.

It’s cold beer on a warm night.  It’s dusty and dirty, with BBQ sauce and elephant ears.  It’s carnival rides and parish chicken dinners.  It’s freedom and fun, maybe in the end it’s just a small taste of all that I love about America.

It’s also a testament to the hard work that this community is no stranger to.  From the ticket takers and beer pourers, to the firemen and EMTs, it’s all one big volunteer effort to keep everyone well fed, well hydrated, safe and having a great time!100_27971

Happy 4th of July everyone! Come on our and see us June 30th-July 4th!  You won’t regret it!

Memorial Day 2016

Today and everyday, from those of us who don’t say it enough…Thank You!

Turkey Shoot November 22, 2015

Traditions run deep in small towns.  For our small community of St. Paul, Oregon the 4th of July Rodeo is an obvious example.  But another one, maybe not so well known is the St. Paul Fire Department’s annual Turkey Shoot that is held every year the weekend before Thanksgiving.  It’s a fun event that has always been a tradition not only in this town, but also in my family.

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My brother, myself, and my dad enjoying a nice sunny day of Turkey Shooting.

Now before you go and get all excited (or horrified) at the idea of running around shooting turkeys, it is a bit more civilized than that.  It’s an afternoon of trap shooting competitions, with the winner receiving either a turkey or a bag of sausage to take home.

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So if you’re in the area and have time check it out this year, bring your shotgun and shells and join us!  It is held at the St. Paul Rodeo Grounds on Sunday November 22, 2015.  Starts at 11am and goes until dark.  Hope to see you there!

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