Sikeston rodeo to mark 60 years

SIKESTON, Mo. -- As the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo marks its 60th year, some special events are in the works.

"We really want to key in on this being our 60th anniversary and have several things planned, as well as a retro logo this year," said Zach Fayette, chairman of publicity and advertising for the Jaycees.

This year's rodeo is planned for Aug. 8 to 11, with slack on the Monday and Tuesday preceding the rodeo.

"We're still in the talking phases, but we are working on coming up with a communitywide initiative for businesses and civic organizations for rodeo week," said Chris Deen, general chairman for this year's rodeo.

Fayette said the Jaycees will be encouraging rodeo attire, banners at businesses and more floats in the parade.

Pink Awareness Night is planned for the Saturday of the rodeo, while the Patriot Night, set aside to pay tribute to veterans, will be on Thursday.

Like last year, the parade and community day is on Saturday, beginning at the Kindergarten Center and ending downtown, Deen said. Also, the celebrity golf tournament will back Aug. 10, with proceeds benefiting the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund.

Also on tap this year to mark the 60th anniversary is a hard-bound book.

"We are looking back over the past 60 years, and it includes a lot of photos from our Jaycees," Fayette said.

While there have been many successes over the years and the Jaycees are anticipating another hit with this year's rodeo, they are looking to the fans for feedback.

"This year, we have a survey out on our Facebook page, and we're also mailing it out to our season ticket holders and will pass it out at the gates during the rodeo," Barry Johnson said. "We are looking for ways to make the rodeo an even better experience for our patrons."

Pertinent address:

Sikeston, MO