The Oregon Queen — November/December 2019

Mission Accomplished!

Take three titleholders, all from Eastern Oregon, and send the three to all corners of Oregon (and, in the case of Miss Rodeo Oregon, far beyond) and watch what happens! At every event they attended, it was apparent they were having a great time and were truly each other’s friend. They represented with gusto, class, and in their own style which is all we could have hoped for. They made a difference!

There is hardly a way to adequately express our gratitude for Taylor Ann, Meredith, and Rowdy’s representation of Miss Rodeo Oregon, Inc. Foundation and their dedication to the sport of rodeo. It was a memorable year with exciting appearances, an abundance of travel, and personal growth. Miss Rodeo Oregon titleholders continue to set the bar high!!

Taylor Ann represented Oregon with a beautiful smile and brought notice to Oregon’s famed Pendleton Round Up and Pendleton Woolen Mills. Many of her outfits featured splashes of Pendleton fabric, instantly recognizable by the public. Taylor Ann always had a hug at the ready for the many little girls who want to grow up to be a rodeo queen. We wish Taylor Ann well as she completes her senior year of studies at Eastern Oregon University and as she makes application to law school.

Meredith represented Oregon and her title well as she traveled to Oregon rodeos and brought awareness to Oregon classrooms of the importance of agriculture in Oregon’s economy. Her infectious smile, gregarious nature, and bright blue eyes have warmed the hearts of many along the way. We hope to see Meredith attending the Air Force Academy in the future, a longtime goal of hers!

Rowdy and her mother Nicole traveled many back roads in the state of Oregon in their trusty motor home affectionately named “Virginia”, making their way to many Oregon rodeos from home base in Dayville. They kept odd hours as they traveled from one event to another, doubling up a few on the same weekends. Some of us have a new appreciation for cacti as Rowdy used them in her chaps and many articles of clothing, giving her reign a special signature. Rowdy traveled to Las Vegas to support Taylor Ann at Miss Rodeo America and to visit the Junior National Finals Rodeo.

We have appreciated all the photographs taken throughout the year, some by parents/relatives/friends but many by professional photographers who captured some of the most spectacular images of rodeo queens possible. Thank you to all. The following are a few of our favorites.

Las Vegas is the cherry on top!

To quote Lynn Haynes (National Director for Oregon), “Our first priority is someone who represents Oregon rodeos well. If they have fun at the MRA pageant, that’s the cherry on top!”

Taylor Ann was in preparation all year for the Miss Rodeo America pageant. She focused on a wardrobe which was uniquely Oregonian with many Pendleton fabrics as their centerpiece. Her fans and supporters were able to get a glimpse of her clothing at her Good Luck Party in Milton-Freewater, but most were unveiled during the competition. Because of very strict rules regarding the photography or videography of contestants, the only option to see many outfits are by accessing them through Sherry Smith Photography. We hope to feature them in one of the next newsletters!

Several board members were in attendance at pageant events: Julie Singer, President; Lynn Haynes, National Director for Oregon; Lois Forester, 2nd VP; Raylah Holm, Treasurer; and Carol Shull Zimmerman, Secretary. Miss Rodeo Oregon 2020 Samantha Henricks did regular updates via Facebook. Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Rowdy Israel was able to attend the Fashion Show and Justin Boot Parade, also taking in some of the Junior National Finals Rodeo. Scott and Kelly Skramstad were there to cheer on Taylor Ann as well. Other Oregon members who attended were Barb Carr, Diana Wirth, Nicole Israel, Lisa Henricks, and Glenda Franich. It was our collective privilege to applaud Taylor Ann whenever and wherever we could!!

The Oregon Queen — October 2019

Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Taylor Ann Skramstad!

September was certainly a bittersweet month, as it had the last two PRCA rodeos of Oregon’s season.

I started my month about as far south in Eastern Oregon you can get, the Lake County Round Up in Lakeview, Oregon. It was my first time at this rodeo and with it being their centennial year, they had an all past royalty reunion in attendance! It was so fun being able to be a part of their show, tour the museum and spend the day with their Queen, Princess, JMRO Rowdy, and one of the Miss Rodeo Oregon Sweethearts Emma Stoneberg.

I then geared up for the 109th Pendleton Round Up, my hometown rodeo! I loved being able to spend my last rodeo as Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 at home, surrounded by my family and friends. I was incredibly busy, attending all four rodeo performances, the queens luncheon, riding in the Westward Ho Parade, and visiting my sponsors Pendleton Hat Company, Hamley Western Store, Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, and Pendleton Woolen Mills. I was also joined by Miss Rodeo Florida, Miss Rodeo Kansas, and Miss Rodeo Washington, and I was so excited to share my Pendleton experiences with them. I am also so proud of Queen Sydney (who was a 2017 Pendleton Princess with me) and her court for representing Pendleton so well this year. Also thank you to President Dave O’Neil, Susan Talbot, Nick Michael, Karen Vanderplatt, Justin and Kim Terry, Betsy and Katy West, Penny French, Dr. Brad and Candie Adams, and Virginia and Bobbie Conner for all that you have done for me throughout my year, and especially during the week of the Pendleton Round Up. Let ‘Er Buck.

Cheerfully,

Taylor Ann Skramstad

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019 Meredith Moore!

September has sure flown by! I had an amazing time in Lewiston, Idaho for the Lewiston Round-Up where I had the amazing opportunity to ride in their rodeo performances and attend their wonderful luncheon. After Lewiston, I had the privilege of spending time in Pendleton at the Pendleton Round-Up where I had a blast volunteering at the Kids Rodeo, volunteering at the Columbia River Circuit Finals booth, riding in the parade, attending their wonderful luncheon, riding a mechanical bull, attending autograph signings in some pretty cool places, touring the Hall of Fame museum, and watching the world’s toughest sport on dirt! Well, grass to be exact!

I ended the month in Salem for the 2019 NPRA Finals and the 2020 Miss NPRA Pageant. I had a wonderful time watching all of the talented ladies compete for the title of Miss NPRA in the day, and spending the evening riding in the grand entry, carrying sponsor flags and of course catching some good old rodeo action. After the final performance it was very cool to see the NPRA champs receive their hard-earned awards. September was a month full of blessings, and I am excited for what October holds.

Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Rowdy Israel!

Just when you think it can not get any better, here comes September!

September was full of so many good memories, now made with so many good friends, that I have met along the rodeo road. I started off September in Lakeview for the 100th year Lake County Round-Up! It was pretty amazing how much of the royalty and directors from the past 100 years were able to make it and get introduced at the rodeo each day. Getting to participate in the meet ‘n greet and Grand Entry both days and pack flags both days throughout the rodeo were just a few of the highlights of the weekend. Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad, Miss Rodeo Oregon Sweetheart Emma Stonebrook, and I all were honored to receive trophies in the Grand Parade.

Next it was home for three days of school and volleyball and then I was off to the Lewiston Round-Up in Lewiston, Idaho. Loading up and driving to Lewiston on Friday night late so that I was ready to go for the Saturday Grand Parade. Borrowing an awesome horse for the parade and another amazing horse for the Grand Entry. I was very honored to have been invited to come to the Lewiston Round-Up and also just as blessed to be able to borrow not one but two amazing horses that day! The Lewiston luncheon was also great fun, getting to see Miss Rodeo Idaho and Miss Teen Rodeo Idaho again in my travels along with many other royalty including Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore.

After Lewiston, I came home to regroup, went to school and volleyball for three days and then it was off to the one and only Pendleton Round Up for four days of events and fun! Thursday morning kicked off with the kids with disabilities rodeo at the Round Up grounds. Always great to be able to help out with such a rewarding event for these kids. Next it was to spend the day with my grandparents while representing and catching up with friends at the rodeo and Happy Canyon event. If you have never been to Happy Canyon you need to go; it is full of so much history and lots of entertainment! Oh, and I was able to meet Trevor Brazil, who autographed my sash! Friday morning it was the Westward Ho Parade, then the Luncheon catching up with Miss Rodeo America Taylor McNair again, then off to watch the Grand Entry of the rodeo, to then go to the Columbia River Circuit booth to sign autographs and help out for a few hours. I finished the day at the Pendleton Hat Company with Miss Rodeo Oregon, Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon, Miss Rodeo Kansas, Miss Rodeo Florida and Miss Rodeo Washington. While visiting with The Pendleton Hat Company, I was very blessed to get their support and for them to become a hat sponsor for the rest of my year. I am very excited to be able to be a Pendleton Hat-wearing Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon! Taking my new hat along for the ride, I started Saturday off with an autograph signing at the Pendleton Woolen Mills with Miss Rodeo Oregon, Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon, Miss Rodeo Kansas and Miss Rodeo Florida. Next, we were off to the Hall of Fame museum, the teepee village, behind the scenes of the rodeo mini tour and then to watch the rodeo! Our last stop of the day was an autograph signing at the historic Hamley western store downtown Pendleton. Then bam, just like that Round Up was over!

Back home for another four days of school and volleyball, then it was off to the Northwest Professional Rodeo Association (NPRA) Finals & Queen contest in Salem. I made it just in time to catch up with friends and watch the horsemanship portion of the queens contest on Friday. Then it was off to Patriotic Night at the Friday night performance. It was a great honor to be able to participate in the Grand Entry and be able to pack flags throughout the rodeo both nights. Attending the Fashion show of the NPRA pageant Saturday before the last performance Saturday night is always a treat. I am so blessed to be able to be a past Lil Miss NPRA Queen and the current Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Queen! These are two great organizations and I am very proud to be able to have represented both over the past few years.

The Cinnabar Mountain Playday Kids Rodeo series is also a great organization that I have been able to participate in. This year they asked me to help out with the awards banquet and it was a blast. These kids love rodeo and I love these kids! After the banquet, I hit the road to do a sponsor visit at the Pendleton Hat Company in Pendleton, then stopped in Staytoh to meet with the 2020 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon to sign off on the revolving serape and pass along some of the revolving Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Items.

Back home for now, school and volleyball until my next event in a couple weeks. Thank you to all of my amazing sponsors, big and small–I could not have done all of this travel without ya’ll!!! Your support has helped me bring my dream to a reality! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! (And thanks to my mom for driving me down the road for countless hours day after day – stay tuned for the mileage count coming soon!) Bring on October!

President’s Message

Greetings!

Time continues to fly by and we are getting Taylor prepared for the Miss Rodeo America Pageant in Las Vegas in less than two months. One of the activities to help Taylor get ready is giving her questions to increase her knowledge of all things PRCA, MRA, horses, current events and–of course–personality. To keep the questions going to Taylor in a steady flow, please email them to Lynn Haynes (our National Director) at MROregonnd@gmail.com. Please enclose your answer with your question. Thank you for your help.

Remember, the MRA Pageant is Sunday December 1 through Sunday December 8, 2019. Tickets are still available and you can also send roses to Taylor throughout the Pageant by ordering them now. Go to the Miss Rodeo America website for details. Our 2020 Lady-in-Waiting, Samantha Henrichs, will be giving updates from the pageant on a daily basis with the activities from that day.

Our Junior and Teen 2020 Ladies-In-Waiting are going forward preparing for their upcoming year. Check the website and Facebook Events for dates and places for their coronations. We will be setting the date for a general membership meeting very soon. It will be a conference call and the information for this years election for 1st Vice President, Treasurer, and Junior/Teen Pageant Director will be sent out prior to the meeting. The other news of importance is that with lots of hard work by our treasurer Raylah Holm, we have received our nonprofit status of a 501(c)3, which allows our sponsors to deduct the cost of products and cash they provide to our titleholders and Miss Rodeo Oregon, Inc. Foundation, our new name.

Have a great fall and hope to see everyone at the upcoming activities!

Julie Singer, President MROI Foundation

The Oregon Queen — September 2019

It feels like the month of August flew by; however, my schedule is starting to slow down. I started the month with a visit to the Union, Oregon Site of EDP Renewables who is a large sponsor of mine. I got to sight see and learn a little more in depth on what their site provides. Taking pictures at a wind farm proved to be slightly difficult due to none other than the wind. I also made a quick stop to La Grande to record a radio ad on behalf of Eastern Oregon University. I am so honored to be selected as the student this year that they chose for their advertisement, and it will be played during the Pendleton Round Up week.

After that, I made another stop to the studio of Shana Bailey Photography to have my headshots taken for the Miss Rodeo America pageant! She is so incredibly talented and it made it very hard to choose just one! Thank you Shana, for sponsoring this shoot for me; your support means so much!

I then packed up and hit the road to Canby, Oregon for the Clackamas County Fair and Canby Rodeo as well as the 2020 Miss Rodeo Oregon pageant. It was such a great opportunity to be able to participate during the pageant events to get feedback for my preparations for Miss Rodeo America, and being involved in the Canby Rodeo is such a treat. They are so incredibly hospitable and we can’t thank them enough for allowing us to have our pageant with them. Another big thank you to the Goughnour family for letting me use their horse Pete for the rodeo and horsemanship section of the pageant, as well as Amber Riesterer for the use of Cinco for Miss Rodeo Alaska, Johnna Drew, who also ended up being my draw horse. While I was there, I also met with designer Ariana Head of Oregon City, Oregon who will be making several of my Miss Rodeo America outfits! Congratulations to Samatha Henricks of Grants Pass, Oregon, our 2020 Miss Rodeo Oregon!

The following weekend Sam and I attended the Wapato Showdown Car Show in Gaston, Oregon where we judged several cars and handed out trophies to the winners. I was able to attend last year as lady-in-waiting and had so much fun. I was so excited to return this year, and the fun I had again this year definitely did not disappoint.

After that, I headed for home where I completed and submitted my Miss Rodeo America application and am officially a contestant for Miss Rodeo America 2020!

Cheerfully,
Taylor Ann Skramstad
Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019

August was definitely a month for the books! I had the privilege of attending Rowdy’s hometown rodeo in John Day, where I got to do my fly-by in the grand entry, carry the Prisoner Of War flag, push cattle, and even pushed myself to the limit in the cowhide race! I then went to Canby for their rodeo and the Miss Rodeo Oregon pageant, which was a whole lot of fun. I ended the month at my hometown rodeo in Walla Walla, Washington where I rode in the grand entry and showed my pig “Lilo” at the county fair. August was a great month and I am excited for what September brings!

Wow! Here we are in August already!

I started August off with traveling to the Deschutes County NPRA Rodeo Friday night performance and then got up early to drive to John Day to make it to the Cinnabar Mountain Playday Kids Rodeo series weekend of events, to represent as Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon along with competing in several events. The Grant County NPRA Rodeo was next on the event list the following weekend. Even though the weather turned out to be a bit wet, with thunder, lightning and a bunch of rain, we made the best of it and enjoyed my hometown rodeo. Miss Teen Rodeo Meredith Moore also joined in on the muddy performance Friday and Saturday. On Sunday was the Grant County Junior Rodeo, in which I represented as Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon, along with competing in a few events. The Grant County Fair officially started on that Wednesday and I was sure to be there, volunteering to run the main entrance gate into the fair, visiting with the community and welcoming everyone to the fair! I enjoyed signing some autographs and visiting one of my sponsor booths, Bar WB Western Wear, where I also got to see and visit with another great sponsor Charleen Morris of The Morris Ranch. I could not have traveled and done this job this year without all of my amazing sponsors, so I feel that it is always important to take the time to visit with them every chance I can get. They helped me pick out a new pair of black boots (since I wore holes through the bottoms of the black boots I had) for the next event, Miss Rodeo Oregon Pageant and Canby Rodeo, that we left to attend later that day.

Making it to our hotel at 3:33am, we got a couple hours of sleep and were ready to go for pageant orientation at 8am, kicking off the pageant and the PRCA Canby Rodeo! Several events were attended throughout the pageant and rodeo that included getting to go to the Boot Barn in Troutdale to pick out an outfit for the fashion show! The Boot Barn was very generous and let us have full run of the store to pick out and try on anything that we liked. Finding the perfect western trend outfit to model at the fashion show was a great experience.

I attended the pajama party in my unicorn onesie and light-up unicorn headband, having a really fun time! I was able to borrow a horse and participate in the horsemanship portion of the pageant, along with getting to take a ride on the Canby Ferry across the water, visit the Swan Island Dahlia Farm, ride in the barrel truck at the rodeo and be a part of the crowning of the 2020 Miss Rodeo Oregon Samantha Henricks. A little fun fact–Samantha Henricks was the 2017 Miss NPRA and I was the 2017 Li’l Miss NPRA, so it was fun to see her now be crowned 2020 Miss Rodeo Oregon as I have very much enjoyed my time as the Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon!

Next up was back to the last weekend of the Cinnabar Mountain Playday Kids Rodeo series in John Day. I was only able to attend the Saturday performance because we were back on the road to Salem to attend the Oregon State Fair, where Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore and I took over the Agricultural Stage answering questions and talking about our year so far as state representatives for Miss Rodeo Oregon, Inc. Enjoying the fair activities was fun as I had never been to the Oregon State Fair before. We signed some autographs and had some fun before we headed back home, so that I could start school on that Monday August 26th. School, volleyball and rodeo are on the event list for September!

The Oregon Queen — August 2019

Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Taylor Ann Skramstad!

July was an extremely busy and exciting month; I can’t believe it’s already over!

I started my Cowboy Christmas 4th of July Run in Molalla to help with their Rascal Rodeo and for their first performance! It was my first time at this rodeo, and I was able to borrow 2020 MTRO Ainsley’s horse Pete! Rowdy and I were there the same night and we pushed cattle out together. We also competed in the Donkey Race, and won!

I then was in Saint Paul for four of their rodeo performances and the 4th of July Parade! I was able to use my own horse, Foxy, for a couple performances and the parade since my sister is the Walla Walla Frontier Days Queen, so they brought my horse over for me. While I was there, I was able to participate in their grand entry, help carry sponsor flags, and be introduced midway through the rodeo. It’s always been one of my favorites and I can’t wait to go back in the future!

I then loaded up and headed down to Eugene for their last two performances. I was able to help with the kids rodeo, as well as be introduced at both performances and help push cattle! There was also a casual queens luncheon which had one of the funniest impromptu clown acts I’ve seen to date! I was also able to use 2018 JMRO Lauren’s horse Babe while I was there!

I was then home for approximately 48 hours and then was on the road to Elgin for the Elgin Stampede. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Elgin, and was able to be introduced all three nights of their rodeo, help with their queen coronation, participate in the parade and attend the queen’s luncheon. I was able to ride three different horses during my time there, and one of them was actually a horse that my parents raised and was my queen horse when I was the Pioneer Posse and Walla Walla Queen. We reconnected like there wasn’t six years in between the last time we’d been together, and it truly made the trip memorable.

From there I went straight over to Nampa, Idaho for the 2020 Miss Rodeo Idaho Pageant, in conjunction with the Snake River Stampede! It was really neat to experience another state’s pageant and see the Snake River Stampede, which truly is like a mini NFR! While I was there I was able to participate in pageant events such as help warm horses up for horsemanship, attend the Airplane Base (where I wasn’t able to do the flight simulator; unfortunately I only was in there for about 30 seconds before the nausea hit me!), debut my new custom pink cowboy hat from Pendleton Hat Company while modeling at the Pink on the Dirt luncheon fundraiser, attended the pancake breakfasts, was interviewed by the local news and was introduced twice during the Snake River Stampede Rodeo.

Directly from there I drove to Cheyenne, Wyoming to the Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo and what an experience it was. I started my trip off attending the Queen’s Brunch, then watching the Wild West Rodeo Opener which was one of the coolest ranch rodeos I’ve seen! We finished up the day with the Midland, Kelsey Ballerini, and Lady Antebellum concert! The next day was the parade in Downtown Cheyenne, with the Wards providing horses for us! My horse slipped on the pavement a couple times so I decided to get off half way through to make sure the horse stayed safe, and one of the mounted posse members put me on his horse and sent me down a side street to cut back into the parade. It was quite the memorable experience! We then went to the rodeo grounds for the first performance where we got to tour the grounds! I also got to sign the bar in Chute 8! The next day I got to do my fly by down the track and was introduced during the rodeo! We finished out the day with front row to the Tanya Tucker and Josh Turner concert! I finished my trip having pancakes thrown at me at the pancake breakfast, which was one of my bucket list experiences!

After driving the short 13 hours home, I was home for about 12 hours before I hit the road for the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo! I was so excited to be able to ride on the top of the Stagecoach at Wallowa Lake, interacting with the tourists and giving out kids rodeo tickets! I participated in the serpentine, was introduced during the rodeo and helped push cattle during my time there! I also was in the Kids Parade, the Grand Parade and the Queen’s Luncheon where all the visiting royalty got to share their favorite memory of their year. Such a fun time at one of my other favorite rodeos and I can’t wait to go back as well!

July was a long, but memorable month! I can’t believe it is already August and we are about to crown the new Miss Rodeo Oregon. I truly cannot believe a year has passed, but they do say that time flies when you are having fun! I’m currently gearing up for the 2020 MRO Pageant, continuing to travel through Oregon’s rodeo season and getting ready to return to school for my senior year!

Here’s some fun stats from my month:

2.5 days home

2,880 miles

10 different horses

Cheerfully,

Taylor Ann Skramstad, Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019 Meredith Moore!

July was definitely a busy month, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! I kicked July off with Cowboy Christmas during Independence Day week where I traveled to Molalla for their rodeo performance and autograph signing, to St. Paul for their parade luncheon and rodeo performance, to Eugene for their evening performance and then stayed for their kids rodeo and the second evening performance, and then high-tailed it to Newport for their rodeo before heading home the next day.

I traveled up to Elgin for their Extreme Bulls and queen coronation the following week. I also had a parade in Athena, Oregon for their Scottish Caledonian games before heading back up to Elgin for another parade, followed by a luncheon and rodeo performance. The following week, I attended the Pioneer Posse Visiting Royalty luncheon and grand entry in the nearby town of Milton-Freewater.

I ended the month up in Joseph for the 2019 Chief Joseph Days parade, luncheon, and several rodeo performances followed by autograph signings and the Chief Joseph Days annual teen dance. Had an amazing month to say the least and am looking forward to what August has in store!

Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Rowdy Israel!

July… Cowboy Christmas we all call it, for the simple reason that there are so many rodeos going on all at the same time. Some are close in distance and some are far apart but there are so many options as to which rodeos to attend. This year with the help of all of my sponsors and my mom, I got to leave my home town of Dayville on Friday June 28th to start my week of Cowboy Christmas. I attended the Crooked River Roundup June 28th and 29th. Then it was off to visit one of my sponsors, The Ochoco Mackie Ranch, for one night. A nice trail ride in the Ochocos and getting to take my horse swimming in a pond in the middle of the forest were just a couple highlights from my short amount of time spent here.

Monday, July 1st we headed to Molalla Oregon to attend the Molalla Buckaroos opening night of their 4th of July Rodeo. I met up with Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad and we had all sorts of fun, from grand entry to pushing cattle throughout the rodeo, along with the one and only donkey races! I am proud to say that MRO Taylor and I WON!!! The next day, I traveled over to the St. Paul Rodeo for their opening night of rodeo, riding in the grand entry with Taylor! Getting to be involved in such a big rodeo will always be remembered, along with being able to get my pictures taken with my hometown PRCA cowboy Trevor Knowles and with PRCA cowboy Marty Yates. July 3rd, on my way to the Eugene Pro Rodeo, I got to stop and have lunch with my sponsor Toolin Turquoise Leather Co. and then it was on to the opening night of the Eugene Pro Rodeo. Meeting up with the 2018 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Lauren Gibson is always fun and this is her hometown rodeo. I got to participate in the bouncy horse races with the local news crew, attend the grand entry, and push cattle. Fun times were had for sure!

Then all of a sudden it was Thursday the 4th of July! Leaving Eugene early that morning, I traveled back to my hometown of Dayville, making it just in time to unload and get in the lineup for the parade. After the parade was over, I loaded back up and traveled an hour to Prairie City, arriving there just in time to unload and line up for their parade. It was very important to me to be able to attend both parades in Grant County, my home, and see all of the people that have so graciously supported me throughout this adventure as Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019. Directly after the Prairie City parade was over, I loaded up and traveled to Vale for their 4th of July rodeo performance. NPRA announcer, Scott Allen was announcing and always has something fun to say for my introduction which is always a highlight for me, making the long day of traveling totally worth it! July 5th was now here and I loaded up and headed to LaPine for the Friday and Saturday night performances. In LaPine I also got to attend the queen’s luncheon, carry sponsor flags, push cattle and throw T-shirts to the crowd as part of the rodeo. After the last performance and after all of the fun that was had, my horse and I were ready to be home. So after the 10 days on the rodeo road we arrived back home, with a ton of memories and an experience of a lifetime!

Home for only a couple days, I then had a sponsor visit at Noble Panels which is located just a few miles from the Washington State border. I am very appreciative to have Noble Panels as a sponsor and was beyond excited to be able to pick up my travel corral system from them. Just a day trip, up and back. Home for just a day, then hit the road for the Elgin Stampede, meeting up with Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor and Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith! Elgin was super fun… grand entry both nights, kids parade, the main parade, luncheon and a photo shoot with Thomas Duncan Photography. It was then back home for two days, and off to the Snake River Stampede in Nampa Idaho. Attending the Pink on the Dirt event was impressive. It is a huge event to support breast cancer awareness and part of the Miss Rodeo Idaho competition. There I got to meet up with Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad and visit with Miss Rodeo America Taylor McNair! Then it was off to the rodeo that night and after the rodeo, I got to sign autographs at the huge line up of tables that were set up outside of the Ford Center with a bunch of other rodeo queens, contestants, clowns and trick riders. Heading back home that night made for a long day but one I will never forget! Home again for two days and then off to the Santiam Canyon Stampede in Sublimity Oregon. Grand Entry, pushing cattle, riding in the barrel truck and getting to visit with some of the fans horseback from the arena made the night go by fast.

The following Monday through Friday I volunteered at the Calvary Christian Horse Camp in John Day, helping teach the 12 foster girls how to take care of and ride horses. Most of these girls have never gotten the opportunity to ride before so it is always fun to help out and see how much joy the horses bring to them all. Right after I was finished on Friday, we headed over to Joseph for Chief Joseph Days, meeting up with Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor and Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore. Friday night rodeo serpentine and autograph signing then Saturday was a full day with the Grand Parade, Luncheon, invitational photo shoot with Robert McLean, rodeo serpentine and run in, along with more autographs after the rodeo! Getting to do a run in at Joseph was pretty amazing!

I can not thank my sponsors, supporters, family and friends enough for helping provide all of these amazing opportunities and memories for me. THANK YOU ALL! Hope to see you all on the rodeo road real soon!

Samantha Henricks is the twenty-three -year-old daughter of Lyle and Lisa Henricks. She calls Southern Oregon home, currently residing in Grants Pass. Sam grew up in the equestrian community, competing in 4-H, High School Equestrian Team, as well as local and breed shows. However, where most riders competed alongside their horses, her partner was a mule. She states that, “Riding a mule in a horse-dominated sport granted me the confidence to stand out and be unique”.

Sam is currently employed at Siskiyou Community Health Center where she works with the Primary Care team as a Medical Assistant. In her free time, she volunteers her time as head coach of the Grants Pass and North Valley High School Equestrian Teams. Sam enjoys fishing, trail riding, playing volleyball, camping and spending time with family.

Sam’s passion for coaching the youth in her community, the western way of life, and horses is what drives her towards the title of Miss Rodeo Oregon. She states, “To serve as the 2020 Miss Rodeo Oregon and be a voice for the sport of rodeo would be an incredible opportunity”.

The Oregon Queen–July 2019

Taylor Ann Skramstad, Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019!

June was an incredibly busy month!

I started really close to home attending the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show in Union, Oregon for their Xtreme Bulls on Thursday, and their parade, queens luncheon, and their first PRCA rodeo performance. Right after that I drove straight home and loaded everything up to leave for the Portland Rose Parade! My parents and I left around midnight, and drove overnight to arrive at the staging area around 5:30am. Despite accidentally leaving some necessity items behind, I got to debut my custom parade outfit which included my new Hamleys serape, and an Oregon-themed custom shirt made by Queenies Custom Creations to match my handcrafted Oregon themed chaps made by Chase’N’Cutters! It was such a fun parade, with perfect temperatures and no rain! I also was selected first place in the State/Association Queen Category! I then finished the weekend at the Sisters Rodeo where I got to help push cattle and carry flags as well as be introduced during their grand entry! It was such a fun rodeo!

I then headed over to Tillamook for the 2020 Junior Miss and Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon pageant. I got to emcee the orientation, announce the horsemanship competition and co-emcee the speech competition with Miss NPRA! I can now officially say I’m the best auctioneer that money didn’t buy! Also, thank you to Tillamook Queen Britney for letting me borrow her horse Huckleberry for the grand entry and cattle pushing both nights! Rowdy, Meredith and I wrapped up the weekend with a visit to the Tillamook Cheese Factory!

I concluded my month in Prineville, Oregon at the Crooked River Round Up. Three nights of action packed PRCA rodeo, one morning of sponsor visits, a parade, queens luncheon, and one terrifying summer storm during the last rodeo performance made for quite the weekend! I can now say I know how to clean about 10 pounds of mud out of fringe.

‘Til next month!

Cheerfully,

Taylor Ann Skramstad, Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019

Meredith Moore, Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019!

Wow has June flown by! I kicked off the month of June in the beautiful eastern town of Union, OR for their parade, luncheon and rodeo. From there, I high-tailed it over to Sisters for their parade, rodeo and luncheon. After Sisters, I came home to the Walla Walla Rodeo Bible Camp where I worked on my walk with God and my team roping. I carried the American Flag at the camp rodeo as Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon, before competing in team roping and break away roping.

After the RBC Rodeo, I loaded up and headed straight to Tillamook for their parade, luncheon, rodeos, and of course our 2020 JMRO and MTRO Pageant! I ended the wonderful month of June in Prineville, where I attended the parade, luncheon and rodeo performances for the Crooked River Round-Up.

What a fun month, right?? Can’t wait for what July has in store!

Rowdy Israel, Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019!

June was here before I knew it and I was off to attend the Joe Wolter Clinic in John Day, Oregon. This is the second year that I have been so graciously sponsored and able to attend this event. Joe is a great horseman and has helped me grow in my horsemanship skills. On Saturday night I attended the clinic social as Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon, signing autographs and sharing my experiences of my year. Everyone was so encouraging and supportive. Just a couple days after that I was headed to Union Oregon for the Eastern Oregon Livestock Show & Rodeo. While getting ready for the parade we all got pelleted with jawbreaker size hail but thankfully, after of course we were all drenched, the sky cleared and the sun came out for the parade and rodeo. Getting to run on the track for a fly by was definitely a highlight at Eastern Oregon Livestock Show! Signing just a few autographs after grand entry, I loaded up and headed for Sisters Oregon that night. I attended the Parade & Rodeo in Sisters on Saturday & Sunday. Many miles were put on during this little weekend adventure, that’s for sure! The very next Friday I joined other local rodeo kids at our local Grant County Ranch & Rodeo Museum for their open house event, trying to help bring awareness to this nice museum that is full of rodeo history for our county. If you have not stopped by to take it all in, you really should take the time to come visit the museum.

The next day was our local Cinnabar Mountain Playday Kids Rodeo series, first double header event Saturday and Sunday. I helped with the grand entry both days and then I also competed in the other 7 events offered. My favorite event is goat tying and I was very happy to win first place both days in this event. Getting back home to turn around and leave for the Tillamook Fair, Rodeo & Junior/Teen Miss Rodeo Oregon Pageant. Yes, it feels a little crazy that the selection of the next Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon is taking place but I know that Morgan Brownell, your new 2020 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon, will do a great job! Congratulations Morgan, you’re going to have the time of your life (I know I am)! Tillamook had a great rodeo and the second longest parade in Oregon (with the Rose Parade being the longest Oregon Parade). I think we went 7 miles! A visit to the Tillamook Cheese factory with Teen Miss Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore and Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad turned out to be exceptional; the cheese and ice cream were amazingly good!!!

Crooked River Round Up in Prineville, Oregon was next on the agenda and it did not disappoint. Two great rodeo performances, a parade, a nice luncheon and another bbq social event made for busy times. A slight thunder, lightning and minor flash flood rain downpour was experienced on Saturday but I was very blessed to have it hold out till after the grand entry… but I felt bad for all the cowboys and cowgirls that were out competing in the standing water while I was in the covered grandstands signing autographs and visiting the fans of this grand sport of rodeo. As all of my travels have kept me very busy and on the go, I have to give all credit to my wonderful long list of sponsors that have supported me along my journey this year. I could not do all of this without the support of my sponsors and family. THANK YOU for allowing me to live out my dream and help promote the western way of life and the greatest show on earth, in the dirt that we all call R-O-D-E-O!

Joe Wolter Cattle Class 2019

Autographs for the girls from Utah at the Joe Wolter Clinic!

All those white specks on the photo–yes, that is hail and it was coming down!! But I was parade ready and off to the parade I went! Eastern Oregon Livestock Show & Rodeo 2019

Chief Joseph Days court to the left and Elgin Royalty to the right surrounding Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad, Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel & Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore waiting for grand entry at the Eastern Oregon Livestock Rodeo!

My little Paint horse has been an absolute rock star. Love this picture of the two of us after the Sisters Oregon Parade.

Meeting the biggest little fans of the rodeo; AJ & Matt Mackie from Las Vegas, Nevada enjoyed the Crooked River Roundup in Prineville Oregon!

Mock TV Interviews at the Hidden Acres Greenhouse & Cafe in Tillamook Oregon

Congratulations to your 2020 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Morgan Brownell for winning the junior division in Tillamook Oregon.

Tillamook Cheese Factory cheese samples with these cheesy girls…. Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel, Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad, and Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore

The Oregon Queen–June 2019

Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Ann Skramstad!

May was a great month, and I got to spend all of it at events in Oregon!

I started the month staying local in Pendleton at the Pendleton Cattle Barons Weekend which was so much fun, and so rewarding. Their purpose is to raise money for scholarships for local college students studying agriculture. I was so honored to receive one of their scholarships as well as the Protect The Harvest Scholarship. Protect The Harvest’s mission is to advocate for and protect agriculture and the western way of life, which is exactly why I decided to strive for a law degree. I was so honored to be selected for their 2019 scholarship. While I was there, I also got to see many old friends, help with the ranch horse and working dog auction, as well as present awards. However, carrying the American flag for both of the rodeo performances was the highlight of my weekend. Thank you to the Thackereys for letting me borrow Sanjo for the rodeo. So thankful for my experience while there.

All three of us Oregon titleholders were able to get together to have a joint photo shoot with Robert McLean! We got some amazing pictures and Meredith, Rowdy and I are all so thankful for his time! After that, I went to my National Director Lynn Haynes’ hometown of Sherwood to attend their third annual fundraiser gala to benefit the Sherwood Police Department. I was able to help when needed, and showcase a few of the live auction items. This was a special event to me also, with my dad being a law enforcement officer. I thoroughly enjoyed my time while I was there.

I finalized my month by traveling just about as far south in Oregon you can get. I spent the weekend in Central Point for the Wild Rogue Pro Rodeo. It was so much fun spending time with their royalty, and we were treated to front row at the LoCash concert, as well as a day at the Family Fun Center. I was introduced all three nights of the rodeo, and helped push cattle as well. I can definitely say I made several stops at the 24 Hour Dutch Bros, and ate my weight in hospitality room pizza and pie. I would really like to thank Carolyn and Dave for opening their home to me for the weekend, and I was lucky to ride three different horses over the weekend. I thoroughly enjoy riding as many different horses as possible; it is so much fun!

Until next month!

Cheerfully, Taylor Ann Skramstad

Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore!

What a month! I had the wonderful opportunity to go to the Pendleton Cattle Barons Weekend where I got to hand out awards and scholarships, help with the working ranch dog and ranch horse auction, sell raffle tickets, sell rodeo tickets for their spectacular ranch rodeo, and work the crowd while throwing T-Shirts. I even got to help judge the BBQ competition!

The following weekend I switched gears and got to show and sell my market hog at the Milton-Freewater Junior Livestock Show where I helped hand out awards as Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon.

I also had my very first parade this month in the cute little town of Waitsburg, Washington, followed by my very first luncheon of the year. I wrapped up the month in May at my first rodeo of the season in Spray, Oregon! I got to ride in their parade and make an appearance during their rodeo performances by running in the grand entry followed by pushing cows. What a great way to kick off rodeo season with a bang!

Can’t wait for what June has in store–Meredith

May has been so much fun! The Pendleton Cattle Barons weekend in Pendleton featured a great trade show, great shopping, a wonderful BBQ championship cook off, working dog trials, ranch rodeo and ranch bronc championship, along with the horse and dog auction. It was a fun filled, event packed Friday & Saturday! Meeting a bunch of super cool people and getting to help out in several different events kept me, Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore and Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Ann Skramstad very busy. Then it was off to a photo shoot for the three of us with photographer Robert McLean for the day. Despite a little wind, the weather was amazing and some great shots were taken, with plenty of laughter. We even did a promotional video for the Junior & Teen Miss Rodeo Oregon Pageant happening in June in Tillamook.

Getting my autograph sheets and sponsor jacket done and ready to go was also a big highlight this month. They all turned out great and I am so grateful to have such an amazing list of supporting sponsors who help me get down the rodeo road.

The first rodeo on the list for May was the one and only Jordan Valley Big Loop in Jordan Valley, Oregon. Jordan Valley always features a great trade show and lots of rodeo action; this year’s rodeo action was in mud and standing water but it was still a great time! Then it was off to the Spray Rodeo in Spray, Oregon. The parade always draws a bunch of rodeo royalty and since the town of Spray is so small the parade circles the town twice! Spray Rodeo also does a quarter mile horse race, in which I participated in both days and came in second both days… it was SO much FUN! I am looking forward to June as my schedule is very busy and there is a different event every weekend! Stay tuned for more excitement & adventures!

Thank You to my sponsors and supporters! Rowdy Israel

Game face on as JJ Harrison held my crown so I could race the quarter mile race at Spray Rodeo on day two. Photo credit to Michael T. Photography

JJ Harrison placing my crown on my hat after the quarter mile race at the Spray Rodeo day one. Photo credit to Lindsey Wyllie Photography

Brittany Miller from the RIDE TV series featuring Ranch Bronc Cowgirls with Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel at the Pendleton Cattle Barons Weekend. Brittany was a competitor in the Ranch Bronc event at the Pendleton Cattle Barons

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Greetings!

Calving is over and all moms and babies are doing well. I just wish the grass in my pasture was as lush as in my yard!!! Summer is on its way with sun and warmer days. As I write this, Rose Parade is next weekend and let’s hope the rain is only Friday and not Saturday morning. We will be getting MROI Queen Taylor ready Saturday morning to represent us with gorgeous flowers prepared by Kacee Joiner. Kacee is the BEST.

The rodeo season is here and watch for our titleholders at one near you. Cheer them on as they represent MROI with grace, big smiles, and lots of energy. The 2020 MROI Junior and Teen Queen Pageant will be held during the Tillamook County Rodeo, June 21 and 22, 2019. It is great to be back in Tillamook and working with their staff.

Remember our MROI general meeting in Canby, Oregon on Sunday July 14, 2019 before our 2020 Miss Rodeo Oregon orientation. Hope to see everyone there. Stay safe and enjoy the many MROI activities.

Until next month–Julie Singer, President MROI

The Oregon Queen–May 2019

Taylor Ann Skramstad, 2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon!

April was a month full of learning! We started off the month with our annual Miss Rodeo Oregon Clinic and our main clinician Keri Sheffield! We learned and practiced many of the skills necessary to be outstanding representatives for the sport of rodeo. For me especially it was early mornings, full days of learning and late nights for my homework.

I was also able to carry the American flag and help where needed. Rodeo Jeopardy was a fun way for us to practice our rodeo knowledge, and I got to use the color pairing section to help me figure out some colors for my Miss Rodeo America wardrobe. Also can’t forget to mention the food was absolutely amazing!

I spent the middle of the month catching up on homework and preparing for the busy summer months ahead. I’m so excited to unveil all of my planning and custom pieces at the Portland Rose Parade in the beginning of June!

To conclude the month, I was able to attend the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo Queens Coronation, which was a lovely event! Their court got to model their wardrobe pieces throughout the night, and we were blessed with stories from the 1949, 1959, 1969, 1979, 1989, 1999, and 2009 courts! I was also surprised with a sponsorship from the Chief Joseph Days Board of Directors, and am so thankful for that!

Cheerfully–Taylor Ann Skramstad

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore!

April wasn’t as busy as March, but it sure was a great month! We kicked things off with the Miss Rodeo Oregon clinic in Madras. It was an amazing weekend filled with a lot of information and tools passed down by former Miss Rodeo America Keri Sheffield, the beautiful former Miss Rodeo Oregon Kayla Vincent and MRO board members. The things learned during the three day clinic were things that were valuable for not only those wanting to pursue a title, but for successful networking, public relations and communications.

There was a good turnout and I met some wonderful new friends and learned things that I will use in everyday life.

I was able to visit a Lutheran school in The Dalles, where I was able to teach another Ag in the Classroom class. I have come to really enjoy visiting the kids in classrooms. The students have been so welcoming, inquisitive and it’s been an amazing experience. I love sharing the world of agriculture with these kids, who might not otherwise learn anything about where their food comes from and how agriculture keeps the world turning….

Until next month!

Meredith Moore

Rowdy Israel, 2019 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon!

April started off with a bang! Getting to attend and be a part of the Miss Rodeo Oregon Clinic was a true pleasure. With the head clinician being Keri Sheffield, we learned a lot and had some great leadership throughout the event in Madras Oregon. Keri was the 2018 Miss Rodeo America and 2017 Miss Rodeo Florida. The MRO board once again put on a great successful clinic and if you didn’t get to attend this year, make sure and sign up for next years clinic. You don’t want to miss it!

April has been prep and prepare time before the season of travel officially kicks off. I worked with my sponsor Toolin Turquoise Leather Co. on my tack set and saddle pad from Best Ever Saddle Pads for a unique cactus look to go with my cactus chaps. I also got together with my sponsor Tani Wenger Photography for a photo shoot to get autograph sheets and I have been working with my sponsor E & R Graphic Designs for the trailer graphics that are coming to showcase all of my sponsors.

I got to enjoy Easter with my Wilkinson Creations family and my mom. Meeting up at the Pineville Leather Show with my sponsor Painted Hills Custom Leather was another April highlight. All visiting royalty got to visit with the vendors and sign some autographs. Looking forward to May because there are some more fun events on my schedule!

Thank you to my sponsors big and small! I couldn’t do this without you all!

Rowdy Israel, 2019 JMRO

The Oregon Queen–April 2019

Taylor Ann Skramstad, 2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon!

March started off great, as I traveled to celebrate our 2019 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon, Rowdy Israel’s coronation! It was a lovely, well attended event with amazing food! The taco bar was definitely a hit for me, as I got to indulge in one of my favorite snacks: guacamole!

I then took a trip to the West Side of the state to attend the Canby Rodeo Court Coronation! I had so much fun being able to help with the auction as well as bringing a pie for an auction item from my hometown store: Tate’s Umapine Mercantile. Congratulations to Queen Savannah, and Princess Madeleine; I can’t wait to see you along the rodeo road this year and especially spend time with you during the Canby Rodeo, while hosting the Miss Rodeo Oregon 2020 pageant!

I then flew across the country again to attend the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo in Kissimmee, Florida to represent the Columbia River Circuit and our Oregon contestants! I was very busy carrying sponsor flags for two of the performances, helped with the “Fill the Boot Campaign” for the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund, signed autographs at Boot Barn, promote the RNCFR at the Country Thunder Music Festival, and present the colors on foot with a huge American Flag along with the other visiting queens.

To finalize my travels for the month, I attended the first rodeo of the Columbia River Circuit, and our first Oregon PRCA rodeo of the year, The High Desert Stampede. While I was there I got to volunteer at the Rascal Rodeo, and help with pushing cattle during the rodeo performances! It was such a fun trip, and an amazing rodeo to start off the season.

Cheerfully, Taylor Ann

March was a very exciting month! It kicked off with our Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel’s coronation! It was hands down one of the nicest coronations I have attended. Everything was outstanding.

I attended the Rascal Rodeo Fundraiser in Pasco, WA and met amazing people that were there to show their support of such an important, life changing organization. RR provides an opportunity for those with special needs to hang out with cowboys, learn how to rope and also ride horses. The pure joy it gives the participants is something that makes my heart happy.

Soon after, I received my instruction packs for Ag in the Classroom’s literacy program. Ag in the Classroom is the platform I am supporting during my year as Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon. I am a longtime member of 4-H and FFA, so agriculture is a huge part of my life. It’s very important that we educate people on how agriculture is part of their daily lives. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to visit schools across the state and give fun, educational presentations to elementary school children.

For the last four years, during spring break, I have attended the 4-H Youth Voices in Action conference in Salem. It’s a wonderful program that introduces everyone to the legislative process, interviewing and public speaking. I was fortunate enough to serve as an “intern for a day” with my local representative, Greg Smith.

The month ended on a high note by attending the High Desert Stampede in Madras. I had a great time volunteering at the Rascal Rodeo, visiting vendors and members of other rodeo board members that were there.

~Happy Trails!

Rowdy Israel, 2019 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon!

2018 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Lauren Gibson handing down the crown to 2019 Jr Miss RodeoOregon Rowdy Israel while 2018 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Addy Crouch announced the coronation.

Wow! Just like that March was here and it was Coronation time! I have been anxiously awaiting this day since last July when I won the pageant. As I watched all the planning and preparation come together, from the chap parade to the auction to the crowning, we all had a great time! I was so blessed to have an amazing turn out of well over 300 people that showed up to help me celebrate! All of the cactus decorating was “on point” with big and little guests, all enjoying themselves. I had a wide variety of auction items, big and small, and there was something for everyone. Lauren Gibson, 2018 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon, said her goodbyes and handed down the crown to my hat for the year as everyone watched. I want to send out a big Thank You to Lauren for always setting a great example for me and others during her reign. I am beyond excited to carry this crown and continue to give the younger generation someone to look up to. Without a doubt I am extremely blessed to have great support from the amazing community that I live in, great sponsors, family and friends that came from near and afar to enjoy this amazing night together, I can not thank you all enough for the outpouring of support!

The very next weekend, I was off to Bend, Oregon for the celebration and coronation of the 2019 Miss NPRA Emylia Breckel. The NPRA (Northwest Professional Rodeo Association) has always held a special place with me since I had the privilege of representing them as the 2017 Lil Miss NPRA. It was great to go and represent as your 2019 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon and help out at her coronation.

Then I was off to Yakima, Washington to celebrate Glenwood Ketchum Kalf Rodeo Queen Laramie Gladley’s coronation. I got there a few hours early and got to help decorate with sunflowers to spread some cheer for the lovely evening. Fun to see fellow queens that I knew from the past and meet new queens that I will see down the rodeo road this year. Then I got a weekend at home to prepare for the upcoming Miss Rodeo Oregon Clinic in April. Super excited to go to clinic and learn from 2018 Miss Rodeo America and 2017 Miss Rodeo Florida, Keri Sheffield! So much to still learn.

Then off to the High Desert Stampede where Dennis Fast and his crew put on an exceptional show in Redmond, Oregon. There was a kids only rodeo Friday where I met up with 2018 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Lauren Gibson, 2018 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Addy Crouch and 2018 Miss Rodeo Oregon Jessi Cornforth, along with 2019 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore. We handed out lots of autographs, stickers and kids rodeo coloring books. Later that day at the evening performance of the High Desert Stampede I met up with 2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Ann Skramstad for some autograph signing. Saturday didn’t disappoint with the Rascal Rodeo for people with special needs in the am, to visiting my sponsor Suspension Specialties in Bend, then back to the High Desert Stampede for an exceptional night performance of rodeo!

I can not say this enough because I could not do all of this without my amazing lineup of sponsors, family and supporters–Thank You All!!

The long awaited Cactus Chaps were one of the highlights of my coronation night. So happy with how they turned out and we were very excited to show everyone! Thanks to Shasta Leatherworks for working with me on these one of a kind Cactus Chaps!!! Your sponsorship is very much appreciated!

Coronation night for 2019 Glenwood Ketchum Kalf Queen Laramie Gladley (far right)! With 2019 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel and 2019 Miss NPRA Emylia Breckel

2019 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel with 2019 Miss NPRA Emylia Breckel at the NPRA Coronation in Bend, Oregon.

2019 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel, 2018 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Addy Crouch, JJ Harrison, 2018 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Lauren Gibson and 2018 Miss Rodeo Oregon Jessi Cornforth at the High Desert Stampede weekend.

2019 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel, helping with the live auction items at the Glenwood Ketchum Kalf Queen Coronation for Laramie Gladley.

The autograph table was a huge success and kept these three very busy! 2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad, 2019 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meridith Moore and 2019 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel.

NPRA Coronation with 2018 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Lauren Gibson and 2019 Jr Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel

The Oregon Queen — March 2019

It’s that time again; another month has passed and February was jam packed full of amazing experiences! I interviewed for several news outlets such as the La Grande Observer and LaGrandeAlive.TV. I am so grateful to be going to college in a town that is so supportive of my endeavors!

Being escorted by my grandpa Wayne Skramstad; he says he’s excited for my America send off so he can do it again!

My coronation night was one to remember, surrounded by my closest family and friends! With it being during the crazy snowstorm, I’m so thankful to everyone who took the time to brave the weather to come and support me! It was an amazing and elegant evening at Wildhorse Resort and Casino. Special thank you to Kayla Vincent (MRO 2017) for giving the invocation as well as stepping in to crown me since Jessi couldn’t make it due to the weather. Huge thank you to Shane Laib, the emcee, and Randy Grudzinski, the auctioneer, for spending your evening working together to help my night run so smoothly. I cannot thank you two enough for everything you have done for me in the past and continue to do. I also want to thank my friends Virginia and Harlee for helping with the set up and keeping me calm during the day.

The next morning I was up bright and early to trek to the airport for the next most unforgettable eight days of my life (thus far)! I flew to Kissimmee, Florida for the 75th Annual Silver Spurs Rodeo, also known as the famous “Florida Queen Week”. While there I experienced so many things I never imagined experiencing such as hunting wild hogs, eating frog legs and fried EVERYTHING, drinking my weight in southern sweet tea, visiting Give Kids The World, riding on an airboat, and wrestling gators. While visiting several schools, I never thought I would visit a place where everyone would comment on me having an accent! I made some amazing, lifelong friendships while I was there! I have some amazing sash sisters, and we all had quite a blast getting to really know each other since meeting as Ladies-in-Waiting in Las Vegas. I would like to extend a huge thank you to Laura Kessler for making the entire trip possible and the Clair family for hosting Cheyenne (Miss Rodeo Louisiana) and me for the week as well as letting us use your horses for our grand entry during the Silver Spurs Rodeo. I can also say that Cheyenne and I instantly bonded and are now the best of friends; we talk to each other on the phone everyday and have so many amazing plans for this summer!

After coming back to the slightly colder state of Oregon, I got to enjoy spending a weekend in my hometown celebrating Meredith Moore being officially coronated as Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019! It’s so amazing to see all our community support and excitement as she begins her year and it was truly a lovely event!

As I finish out this term of school and prepare for the next 10 months of rodeo season ahead, I am so excited in the month of March to celebrate the coronation of our Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel, receive my custom Miss Rodeo Oregon chaps, return to Florida to support our Oregon cowboys and cowgirls at the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo, and attend my first Oregon rodeo, the High Desert Stampede!

I don’t think I could ever express the gratitude and blessings that I have received to have the opportunities I do during this year. I am continuously thankful!

Cheerfully,

Taylor Ann Skramstad, Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019

February has been a GREAT month! I was happy to attend our Miss Rodeo Oregon’s official coronation in Pendleton, OR. It was a very special evening celebrating an amazing lady. The venue was wonderful and we were served a fantastic meal. Wildhorse did an awesome job.

As the month progressed, I was busy soliciting auction items for my own coronation. It was super hectic, but it was nice to visit the local businesses and connecting with both repeat and new supporters. It always amazes me what a great community I live in.

Finally, the big day came. It was all I could have hoped for and more. I was lucky enough to have Kayla Vincent serve as my MC and she really did an amazing job of making it a fun evening. Becky and Eric Green provided the best tri-tip dinner around and everyone seemed to really enjoy it. Both Addy Crouch and Bethany Rowe made the trip to officially pass the crown. It was a night I will always remember and I am so grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.

Next, I’ll be heading to Rowdy’s coronation in John Day and I can’t wait. Stay tuned, March is going to be a fun month!

Four great guys trying out for the Mr. Cowboy title!

February was here and February was gone, just like that! It was a busy lil month in February, starting the month off with an all day basketball tournament and then the next day traveling up to Pendleton to The Wildhorse Resort to celebrate the coronation of Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Skramstad! The weather decided it needed to dump a bunch of snow that weekend, unfortunately making travels difficult for some people to attend. I was glad that we had no problems, made it safely, and got to enjoy in her amazing coronation. Congratulations again Taylor! I am looking forward to following in your footsteps. We picked up some supplies for my coronation and headed back home the next day for more basketball games that following week. Between school, basketball, woodshop projects, and visiting with potential sponsors, collecting donations for auction at my coronation and some sleep, my weeks were very busy!

We then loaded up and traveled to to the Milton Freewater Community Center for the coronation of Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore. Travels were a lil less snow covered this time and it was also a nice venue and great turn out. So much fun getting to see and visit with everyone and watch both Miss Teen Rodeo Oregons of last year receive their saddles from Bob Roy Custom Saddles. Then the snow started to fly that night and travels home for many were slow and snowy. We grabbed some more supplies for my coronation the next day and made it home safe. Then just like that, the week was here… the week that I had been waiting for… it was time to start setting up for my coronation! The snow continued to come down, day after day. We got a couple snow closure days from school that week but it was worrisome for everyone that was going to have to travel to get to my coronation. We kept watching the weather and road reports and decided to keep on schedule with my coronation and boy am I glad that we did! Unfortunately not everyone could make it due to the weather (from the roads to a hard calving season due to the weather) but thankful for everyone that was able to attend. Can not wait till next month to tell you all about my coronation, March 2nd! I could not make my travels and coronation such a success without the support from my amazing sponsors, family, friends & supporters! Thank You to all of you for everything you do!

Miss Rodeo Oregon Queen Clinic!

We have less than a month until the 2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon clinic begins in Madras, Oregon from April 5-7! We are delighted that Keri Sheffield will be joining us to inspire us with her message. We have a very full schedule planned with two evening sessions and two full days of instruction. Horsemanship has been divided into two sessions which we have found is more productive than a day-long arena experience. We will be offering instruction at different levels based on experience and interest. The clinic price includes six filling meals plus snacks, a clinic manual (and a separate one for parents and advisors), T-shirt, and expert instruction from our staff who have decades of experience as pageant directors, horse judges, former Miss Rodeo Oregon titleholders, and rodeo queen judges.

Keri hails from Summerfield, Florida and currently resides in Fort Worth, Texas. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Berry College in Rome, Georgia and served on two mission trips to Costa Rica. Now working as a trauma intensive care unit nurse, Keri plans on continuing her education to become a nurse anesthetist and pursue her dream of serving as a medical missionary. Keri served as the 2010-2011 Florida High School Rodeo Association Queen, placing in the top ten at the National High School Rodeo Association Queen contest in Gillette, Wyoming. In 2017 she went on to win the title of Miss Rodeo Florida, winning the categories of personality, appearance, photogenic, speech, and horsemanship. Most recently, Keri was crowned Miss Rodeo America 2018, winning the categories of personality and appearance, receiving the Dea Family Foundation Field of Science Scholarship, and becoming the first ever Miss Rodeo America from the Sunshine State.

Register on the Clinic page of the Miss Rodeo Oregon website: www.missrodeooregon.com.

Flashback to The Oregon Queen April/May 2005

Almost fourteen years ago, Steve Kenyon wrote this article for the Oregon Queen newsletter. Back before he became famous with ProRodeo Live, he was “our” Steve Kenyon, a Pendleton native and rodeo announcer. In 2009 he was awarded the PRCA’s Excellence in Broadcast Media Award. The words he wrote then still hold true and serve as a reminder of “Arena Etiquette for Queens from a Pro!”

Some thoughts on your time in the arena…..

As a rodeo announcer I spend a lot of time dealing with rodeo’s royalty.

I’ve had the chance to see a lot of young ladies make everyone’s life pretty easy, and occasionally to make a few people’s lives more difficult than they need to be. I’ve been asked to share a few thoughts….

Your relationship with the announcer at any rodeo you go to is pretty important because when it comes time for you to be introduced, the announcer is the person doing the introducing.

Please make his life as easy as possible. This is really a pretty simple thing to do. Get there on time, which means get there early. If the performance starts at 7 and you would like to make a run-in in the grand entry, you should be there early enough to find the arena, to find the person coordinating the opening, and to ask what else you can do, be it signing autographs or chasing cattle or helping out in some other way that puts both you and your rodeo in a positive light. In Flagstaff, AZ a couple of years ago a visiting queen showed up at 7:05 for the 7:00 rodeo. Her mom came running to the announcer’s stand literally expecting us to stop this hundred thousand dollar event for her little girl. All she accomplished was creating havoc in announcer’s stand during the grand entry.

You need to make sure you are checking in with the right person. Most well run events have someone who is coordinating the visitors and who will then give that list and their information to the announcer in the proper order. Work with that person and his or her system. I once had a queen’s advisor try to skip by the proper order of things and come straight to me, thinking it would get her girl some extra exposure. All it did was irritate a lot of people.

I can’t tell you how important it is for you to make whatever you are going to provide as easy to read as possible. If you can produce something printed in large type with the essential information about you and your rodeo, that is best. Don’t scribble something hard to read at the last minute. If your name is frequently mispronounced, you might spell it phonetically on your card and point out the correct pronunciation to the queen’s coordinator or the announcer himself if you have a chance to talk to him.

Remember too that your first priority is to represent your rodeo. I’ve probably only got a very limited amount of time to introduce you. I need to know your name, the name of your rodeo, what city it’s in and when it takes place. If there’s extra information like a special event that accompanies your rodeo or your parents name or the name of your horse, you can include it and I’ll get to it if I can, but please make sure you put the important stuff first.

Always be prepared, particularly if the announcer is horseback, to say something about your rodeo if you are asked. I like to try to ride up to the queens and give them a few seconds to invite people to their rodeo during a slow spot in the team roping or the calf roping while they are running cattle. The question will be simple and painless, and the microphone I’ll shove in your face for the answer won’t bite. You should always have a quick 15-20 second answer about your event in your mind that you can grab ahold of when you need it.

If you are in the arena chasing out livestock, remember to get your job done and then get out of the way. You’ll start in a corner where you don’t interfere with the roping box. In the calf roping, wait until after the run is completely complete, including the judges six second count after the cowboy has gotten back on his horse. When the untie crew moves in, then you can too, and after the calf has left the arena, come back down the side, not down the middle. In the bulldogging don’t interfere with the horses; bulldoggers spend hours teaching their horses to go to the end of the arena and don’t like other people getting in their way.

A final thought for you. You should always know our sport, our history and our heritage. I think it’s as important for a queen to be able to speak clearly and to tell our story as an articulate representative of rodeo as it is to look good in the arena. You need to understand the rules of our sport, the animal welfare concerns that we address daily, and have a good grasp of current events and what’s going on in the world.

If someone from a TV or radio station or newspaper asks for an interview, try to find out what they would like to know so you’ll be able to prepare your answers in your mind. Remember, the interviewer probably won’t have a good understanding of rodeo, and you might have to give a good answer to a dumb question.

Hopefully these tips will do you some good. I really respect how hard all of our royal ladies work on behalf of our sport, and look forward to seeing many of you down the road.

Steve Kenyon, PRCA Announcer.

We are very happy at the move of the Junior Teen Sweetheart Pageant to Tillamook! The Junior Teen portion will be held on June 21 and 22 with the Sweetheart Pageant on June 22 only. The Sweetheart contest is for girls who are between the ages of 4 and 8 by June 1, 2019. The Junior is for girls who are between the ages of 8 and 13. The Teen category is for girls between 13 and 18. APPLICATION DEADLINE IS JUNE 1, 2019!

Applications are now available by contacting Tanya Marie Utberg at (503) 807-7149 or tuterg@pfsc.com

The Oregon Queen — February 2019

Carrying the American flag at the Columbia River Circuit Finals. It always means the world to me when I am allowed to present the colors of our great nation!

I cannot believe my first month as Miss Rodeo Oregon is already over, but time sure flies when you are having fun (and are extremely busy)! I loved being able to attend all the performances at the Columbia River Circuit Finals. Jessi Cornforth (2018 MRO) and I had the honor of carrying the American Flag at the Friday night performance. Cheering on our Oregon cowboys and cowgirls was so fun, and I’m so fortunate to call some of them past college rodeo teammates and friends. I was also invited to attend the Committee Meeting with Miss Wilderness Circuit, Jayna Scadden. I got to hear first hand of the hard work and effort that all of our PRCA Rodeo Committees put into making our Circuit the best it can be for our contestants and communities.

I then was able to attend the 2019 Milton Freewater Pioneer Posse Annual Meeting and Coronation! It was such an amazing experience being back where I held my first title, and see my grandpa Wayne Skramstad be inducted into the Hall of Fame. This organization has built the foundation for my rodeo career, both queen and contestant! I cannot wait to see the impact that Queen Kylee and Princess Alexis make as they represent this year.

The next morning I flew out to Denver, Colorado for the National Western Stock Show. I was there for three action- packed days and several rodeo performances! I got to carry flags for two of the rodeo performances on the Cervi Championship Rodeo Company horses, Miami and Magic. I was not ready to go back to school, and wish I could have stayed there for the rest of the rodeo! The NWSS hospitality is absolutely amazing.

The rest of the month was dedicated to preparing for my formal Coronation Gala and Fundraiser. I have received so much support from my local businesses and am so grateful for each and every one of them. Thank you so much to Basel Cellars Winery, Humbert Asphalt, Walla Walla Fair and Frontier Days, Bobbie and Virginia Conner, Pendleton Round Up and Happy Canyon, Richartz Brothers, and a special thank you to Noble Panels and Gates Inc, Wildhorse Resort and Casino, and Pendleton Hat Company!

What a month! I kicked off the New Year with my first event as the official Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019, which was the 2018 Columbia River Circuit Finals Rodeo in Yakima. I had an amazing time making new friends, helping some special needs cowboys and cowgirls get their rodeo on at the Rascal Rodeo, something I love to do. I also helped raise money to stomp domestic violence, by selling purple feathers to those in attendance. It was a great weekend where I was able to watch some of the best rodeo athletes around compete in one of the toughest sports around. It was also a special time because it was the very final performance for Rowdy Barry and Ryan Wilson, who took off their cleats one final time as they head into retirement.

I also helped crown the incoming Milton Freewater Pioneer Posse Court at their coronation. It was a special night filled with a lot of wonderful people.

Next, was the 2019 Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo Court coronation. There, I met new friends and saw some familiar faces, and of course I got to watch the next generation of young women taking on the task of representing the great sport of rodeo as well as their awesome county.

Currently, I am getting ready for Taylor’s upcoming coronation for Miss Rodeo Oregon, which will kick off the month of February! In between the events I’ve been attending, I’ve been gaining some exciting new sponsorships and donation items for my coronation coming up February 23rd! I’m really looking forward to it, as it should be a fun night. Hope to see you guys there!

A special thank you goes out to Noble Panels as they join my sponsorship team. I greatly appreciate your support!

Wow! January really flew by fast! After attending the New Years Eve Hoof n Holler Rodeo in Albany Oregon, I headed back home to start promoting my upcoming coronation–hanging posters, handing out invitations, and visiting with friends, sponsors and donors to make sure they all knew they were invited to my coronation and appreciated for their support.

A visit to the Chamber of Commerce in John Day and an appearance at our local Grant County Fair Board meeting were just a couple things that got incorporated into my schedule in the first couple weeks of January. My travels took me to Central Oregon for three weekends in a row, with the last weekend attending the Jefferson County Coronation in Madras. Such a fun night! I’m now looking forward to February, attending the Miss Rodeo Oregon and the Miss Teen Rodeo coronations, along with finalizing the last details of my coronation.

Mark your calendars to attend my coronation party and fundraiser on March 2 at 6 pm in John Day Oregon. Come one, come all and let’s “Taco About a Party” with a full taco and beverage bar and silent and live auctions that include some very unique one-of-a-kind handcrafted items. My family and sponsors are amazing and I want you all to meet them! See you all there!!

Rowdy Israel, Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon

President’s Message

Greetings from the snow-covered West Salem hills!

I want to wish everyone a Happy Snow Year and hope you will be able to attend our 2019 Titleholder’s coronations this month and next. Details are on our web site. I am so excited about our 2019 Clinic and having 2018 Miss Rodeo America Keri Sheffield as our guest clinician!! This should be our best clinic yet. See all the details on Facebook and our web site. Please current MROI members let us know where you would like to have our quarterly meetings. Send comments to our secretary Carol Schull or myself. Safe travels to all while attending MROI functions.

Until next month–Julie Singer, President MROI

2019 Queen Clinic!

We are extremely honored to host Keri Sheffield in Madras, Oregon as our guest clinician at the 18th Miss Rodeo Oregon Queen Clinic!! If you are looking for the classic rodeo queen clinic covering the range of knowledge needed to compete in a local or state level pageant, then we can offer you a personalized, professional clinic. Check out the clinic page of this website for comments from 2018 attendees, along with some photos. Registration and payment is easy. All the information you need about camping, stalls, deadline, etc. is on the clinic page. We look forward to meeting you!! (For the first time, we are also giving parents and court advisors their own manuals!)

The Oregon Queen — November/December 2019

Mission Accomplished!

Those Chaps!!

Las Vegas is the cherry on top!

We are indebted to sponsors!

Membership Dues!

The Oregon Queen — October 2019

Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Taylor Ann Skramstad!

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019 Meredith Moore!

Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Rowdy Israel!

President’s Message

All the details are here for the first event of 2020!

We greatly appreciate our sponsors!!

The Oregon Queen — September 2019

Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Taylor Ann Skramstad!

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019 Meredith Moore!

Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Rowdy Israel!

A new logo and a new name!

Announcing Miss Rodeo Oregon, Inc. is now

Miss Rodeo Oregon, Inc. Foundation

The Oregon Queen — August 2019

Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Taylor Ann Skramstad!

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019 Meredith Moore!

Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019 Rowdy Israel!

The MRO Pageant with Johna, Dona, Donna, and Johnna!!

2020 Contestant Sam Henricks

Save the Dates!

The Oregon Queen–July 2019

Taylor Ann Skramstad, Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019!

Meredith Moore, Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon 2019!

Rowdy Israel, Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon 2019!

Introducing Ainsley Goughnour, MTRO 2020 and Morgan Brownell, JMRO 2020!

Welcome to the Miss Rodeo Oregon family!

(See all pageant results and awards on this website under “Pageants”)

The Oregon Queen–June 2019

Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Ann Skramstad!

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore!

Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel!

President’s Message

Meet our three judges for the Junior Miss and Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Pageant!

Miss Rodeo Oregon Sweetheart Contestants!

2020 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Contestants

2020 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Contestants

Thank you to our wonderful sponsors!

The Oregon Queen–May 2019

Taylor Ann Skramstad, 2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon!

Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore!

Rowdy Israel, 2019 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon!

A Look Back at Last Year’s MRO Pageant!

2019 Clinic with Keri Sheffield!

New Sponsor!

The Oregon Queen–April 2019

Taylor Ann Skramstad, 2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon!

Meredith Moore, 2019 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon!

Rowdy Israel, 2019 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon!

Looking back at the 2019 Junior and Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Pageant!

Thank you so much to our generous sponsors!

The Oregon Queen — March 2019

2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Ann Skramstad!

2019 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore!

Garner’s Sporting Goods

2019 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel!

Miss Rodeo Oregon Queen Clinic!

Flashback to The Oregon Queen April/May 2005

2020 Junior Teen Sweetheart Pageant!

2020 Miss Rodeo Oregon Pageant!

Thank you, Miss Rodeo Oregon, Inc. sponsors!

The Oregon Queen — February 2019

2019 Miss Rodeo Oregon Taylor Ann Skramstad!

2019 Miss Teen Rodeo Oregon Meredith Moore!

GARNER’S SPORTING GOODS

2019 Junior Miss Rodeo Oregon Rowdy Israel!

Prairie Springs Fish Farm–Canyon City Mobile Market

John Day Auto Parts

President’s Message

Miss Rodeo America Fashions!

2019 Queen Clinic!

Thank you to our generous sponsors!