President’s Message
Fortuna Rodeo Association
Presidents Message
Welcome to the 104th Anniversary of the Fortuna Rodeo! We have a full 9 days of events and activities that will have you and your family Shaken, Rattling and Rodeoing! We have a huge new addition to this year’s entertainment, “Country on the Coast”. On the evening of July 12th the Fortuna Rodeo Association will present country music star, Bryan Martin in concert along with 2 other, up and coming country artists, Alex Key and Timmy McKeever. The rodeo grounds are going to be transformed into one of the most beautiful concert venues in Northern California. It will include individual seating for nearly 5000, a 30’x40’ covered stage with lighting a great sound system and every seat will have a fantastic view of the show.
There will be 10 food trucks on site along with the Humboldt/Del Norte Cattlewomen serving up a large variety of delicious food, 3 full bars, ice-cold beer and Easy Squeezy Lemonade. This is going to be an event you won’t want to miss!
Along with “Country on the Coast”, the week will include a 5k run, Chili Cookoff, Kids Street Games and Penny Scramble, 6 days of Carnival fun, 2 days of Jr. Rodeo action, Bull Riding and Quadiators, Mutton Busting, Breakfast at the park, Parade, Trick Riders, Bronc Riding, Breakaway Roping and 2 Days of Rodeo action. There’s something for everyone young and old and all are free or at an affordable cost!
This years Fortuna Rodeo’s Grand Marshall is Christine Barkdull owner and operator of the Bar W Ranch near Bridgeville. Christine has been a supporter of Fortuna Rodeo for a long time and was a Fortuna Rodeo Theme Girl in 1965! Be sure and stop by the Grand Marshall’s Box Seat during the rodeos and say howdy!
The 104th Fortuna Rodeo is being dedicated to Mr. Frank Hizer who passed away earlier this year. Frank was a leader in our community on many levels for many years. Frank was a doer! A few of his civic activities included sitting on the boards of the Fortuna Rodeo, Fortuna Union High School and was the founder of the Fortuna Redwood AutoXpo Car Show.
One of his biggest contributions was his 43 years of service in the Fortuna Volunteer Fire Department. He served in almost every capacity, including the Fire Chief of the district. Frank will be missed by all that crossed his path and remembered with a smile.
At Saturday’s Rodeo we will be having an Empty Saddle Tribute for Frank.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the City of Fortuna, Fortuna Volunteer Fire Dept. Fortuna Chamber of Commerce, our sponsors and all the volunteers that make this community event possible.
So let’s get ready to “SHAKE, RATTLE and RODEO!
Happy Trails,
Shannon McWhorter
President