A Legacy of Community and Tradition
For over a century, the Clovis Rodeo has been more than just an event; it’s a symbol of community spirit and tradition. For 112 years, the annual show has brought people together, drawing crowds from all walks of life to witness the excitement of bucking bulls and courageous cowboys. Beyond the thrilling performances, the rodeo serves as a vital platform for the community to support itself and its members.
One of the key aspects of the rodeo is its role in fundraising. The Old Town Clovis Kiwanis Club, for instance, plays a significant part in this effort by serving sizzling meals that help fund scholarships for students in the Clovis Unified School District. Eric Scharton, a member of the Kiwanis Club, emphasized the importance of these efforts: “It is actually one of our biggest fundraisers of the year. It helps us with our scholarships that we hand out to Clovis Unified students.”
The rodeo isn’t just about the Kiwanis Club. It brings in dozens of other groups, each with their own fundraising goals. Chuck Rigsbee, a Board Member and past President of the Clovis Rodeo, explained, “They’re all earning their money to put back into the community for whatever reason that is.” Many of these fundraisers focus on supporting local children, reinforcing the idea that the community’s future lies in its youth.
Supporting Local Youth
For many young people in Clovis, the rodeo is an opportunity to contribute to their community while also raising funds for their own activities. Owen Cummins, a Boy Scout, shared his experience: “I’m a Boy Scout. So we sell stuff for the rodeo and that’s how we make money to go on camping trips.” This kind of involvement not only helps the scouts but also instills a sense of responsibility and community service in them.
Aaron Dominguez, another Boy Scout, added, “Boy Scouts does a lot of service projects. So, for example, Eagle Projects, those benefit schools, churches, religious institutions, stuff like that.” These projects are a testament to the values of the community, where giving back is as important as receiving support.
Economic Impact and Community Support
While the rodeo brings in a lot of revenue, it also has a ripple effect on the local economy. Businesses in Old Town Clovis, especially bars, have seen increased activity throughout the week. However, not all businesses have benefited equally. Some restaurant owners, who chose to remain anonymous, mentioned that their business has been slower than usual.
Despite this, many residents have made a conscious effort to support these local businesses. Brittany Becklin, a lifelong resident of Clovis, expressed her commitment: “We’re all about supporting the local community, and I’m a Clovis girl at heart.” Her sentiment reflects the deep-rooted connection that many have with the town and its traditions.
A Celebration of Unity
As the 112th annual Clovis Rodeo comes to a close, the event stands as a celebration of unity, tradition, and community spirit. From the excitement of the rodeo grounds to the quiet support of local businesses, every aspect of the event contributes to the fabric of the community. Sunday marks the final day of festivities, with events starting at noon.
In essence, the Clovis Rodeo is more than just a spectacle—it’s a reflection of the values that define the town. Through fundraising, community service, and economic support, the event continues to bring people together, ensuring that the legacy of the rodeo lives on for generations to come.
