Kids and violins were a big
hit when the Black Hills Suzuki Kids took to the stage for pre-show
entertainment.
Pretty maids all in a row,
including Karen Waltman (far right) a former Miss South Dakota and the
property manager for Rushmore Mall. Karen is also featured in the 2005
BHSSF Cowgirl Calendar.
Showing off some serious Western 'bling',
(this necklace from Jewels of the West, Hill City, SD) were rodeo queens
from around the region.
Suzuki Kids instructors, including Carol
Knowles, center.
Taking tickets and greeting folks was
volunteer Deb Farrar, the marketing director for Lynn, Jackson, Schultz
and LeBrun, Rapid City.
Show emcee's Bobby Marchesso, KNBN
television personality and show coordinator Sally Samuelsen.
Foundation Director Dan Warren and wife
Paula helped to host this year's event as did Director Connie Weishaar
(not pictured).
Visiting rodeo royalty were among the
models on the runway.
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Reflections of the West…..
BHSSF Annual Parade of Cowboy Finery Lights Up The Stage
Rapid
City, SD – Kids and violins, rodeo queens in cowboy finery, working cowboy
outfits and some serious Western ‘bling’…. All that and more filled the
stage for the Black Hills Stock Show Foundation’s 4th Annual Style Show held
January 29 during the Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo.
If retailer’s weren’t busy enough working behind the scenes to keep their
lines moving through the fast-paced, choreographed performance where
audience numbers were up from last year, it just got busier on Retail Row
following the show where sales were brisk.
“The spin-off on livestock related terms at Stock Show, such as Supreme
Row or Stallion Row, is a great idea,” says Judy Brengle of the Aladdin
Store in Wyoming. “The use of livestock panels - the set up of wine and
cheese – how it was all laid out, worked together to give retailers maximum
exposure. It made a difference in how we were able to market our lines after
the style show.”
A little something for everyone – in all age groups – would best describe
the fashion lineup that included RCC Western Stores….with an interesting
twist. Show coordinator Sally Samuelson, a Mobridge, SD native spoke of her
years in queen competition at such events as the Sitting Bull Stampede,
“where any self-respecting cowgirl shopped at RCC for her wardrobe. I did
then and I’m happy to welcome them on stage now – as an example of how the
western look never, ever goes out of style.”
Tammy Stredwick, a buyer for RCC (who is also among those featured in the
Foundation’s 2005 Limited Edition Cowgirl Calendar) spoke to the overall
organization and presentation of the event. “Since this show began, each
year I see improvements. I think everyone who has been involved in the
effort to build this fundraising event for the Foundation can be proud of
the progress and growth of the show. I’m already looking forward to next
year.”
Foundation directors rolled up their sleeves, helping in all areas
including ticket sales where the admission price didn’t slow anybody down.
“This was our first year to charge admission and it was encouraging,” says
Foundation Director Connie Weishaar, Reva, SD. “I think people understand
events like this are not without costs and as long as the entertainment
value is there, an admission price isn’t something that keeps them away.”
Overall, Weishaar points to this years show as a success, noting, “There’s
always areas to be worked on in a diverse production like this one. Myself
as an example, I’d like to see more of the classic, western fashions
included.”
All things to be worked on for next year but for now, the reminder of
what creating and working at a BHSS Foundation fundraiser is all about, was
summed up best by television personality and style show emcee, Bobby
Marchesso. “We’re here today to raise awareness of and support for
scholarships for students pursuing careers in ag-related fields. It’s about
the kids, folks. Let the show begin.”
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