Council highlights rodeo's success

In a comprehensive report on the Green River City Council agenda for the June 4 meeting, the Overland Stage Stampede Rodeo Committee's update emerged as a highlight, capturing the attention of both council members and community members alike. Led by the dynamic trio of Karie Collins, Braden Perry, and Jerry Perry, the committee presented a detailed overview of their recent accomplishments and ambitious plans for the upcoming rodeo season. With a stellar track record of attracting crowds, boasting an impressive attendance of 2,400 people for two consecutive years, the Overland Stampede Rodeo has solidified its status as a cornerstone event in Green River's cultural calendar, drawing locals and visitors alike to its thrilling displays of cowboy grit and Western heritage.

In their presentation, the committee outlined a series of recent improvements to the rodeo grounds, underscoring their unwavering commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages. These enhancements include the meticulous replacement of several corral panels and the leveling of the arena ground, ensuring optimal conditions for both participants and spectators alike. Moreover, plans to update the sound system were met with enthusiastic support, with a keen focus on increasing accessibility and enhancing the overall event ambiance. With Friday and Saturday nights set to be filled with an array of family-friendly activities and entertainment, including traditional rodeo events and live music performances, the Overland Stage Stampede Rodeo promises to deliver an unforgettable Western adventure for all who attend, solidifying its reputation as a must-see event in Green River's vibrant community scene.

Green River residents and horse enthusiasts also have a unique opportunity to bring home two young mustangs recently delivered to the Green River Visitor Center corral. Janet Hartford, a local resident, announced on Monday that the mustangs, one a red sorrel and the other a deer-colored "grulla," are available for adoption at a nominal fee of $125 each. These well-trained two-year-olds, measuring 14'3", are from the Little Colorado and Wide Basin regions, north of the interstate. Despite their size, Hartford advises against feeding them directly as they are still young and may bite. The mustangs, hailing from the Honor Farm, are not native to the US but have become a cherished part of American heritage. Hartford emphasized the exceptional value of these mustangs, noting that similar horses have fetched prices as high as $60,000 in internet adoptions. This presents an excellent opportunity for horse enthusiasts to own a piece of Western history while supporting a worthy cause. Don't miss out on this incredible chance to stop by and see, or to adopt, these magnificent mustangs!

Amidst the rodeo committee's updates, the Green River City Council also turned its attention to matters of community service and recognition.

Janet Schultz, a dedicated community member, stepped forward to volunteer for a three-year term on the City Tree Board. With a passion for environmental conservation and urban forestry, Schultz's appointment comes as a welcomed addition to the board, tasked with overseeing the management and preservation of Green River's urban tree canopy. The Mayor, recognizing Schultz's commitment to civic duty, wholeheartedly endorsed her appointment, underscoring the importance of citizen engagement in shaping the future of the city's green spaces.

In another pivotal decision, the council deliberated on awarding a bid for an Animal Control Transport vehicle to Ken Garff of Cheyenne. With the safety and welfare of the community's residents and animals in mind, the council unanimously approved the bid, totaling $102,040. This vital investment ensures that the Community Service Division of the Police Department is equipped with the necessary resources to respond swiftly and effectively to animal-related emergencies, further bolstering the city's commitment to public safety and animal welfare.

In addition to these deliberations, Mayor Pete Rust seized the opportunity to recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of women veterans with the proclamation of Wednesday, June 12, as "Women Veterans Appreciation Day." This proclamation serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by women in the armed forces and highlights the need for continued support and recognition of their service and contributions to our nation's defense. Furthermore, Mayor Rust declared the month of June as "307 First Month," emphasizing the city's dedication to supporting local businesses and recognizing them as the backbone of the local economy. This initiative underscores the importance of patronizing and promoting locally-owned establishments, fostering economic resilience and community pride. As Green River embraces its vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, residents are encouraged to celebrate and support the diverse array of businesses that contribute to the city's prosperity and vitality. As Green River continues to thrive and evolve, these initiatives serve as a testament to the community's resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for all.