Let Sikeston shine during Rodeo time

It goes without saying that Rodeo Week is an important time for our community. For starters, thousands of visitors give us this one shot a year to put our very best foot forward and show them what a classy community we truly are.

And then, not to be forgotten, these visitors bring cold hard cash when they come for the Rodeo and that cash circulates through our community like wildfire.

And finally, with proceeds from the annual Rodeo, the Jaycees pour funds into countless worthwhile projects and programs in Sikeston.

So it's a win, win, win for our community. And it all arrives this week.

I have used this column on past occasions to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Sikeston Jaycees. But it takes more than words to fully explain just how important this group is to our town.

If you look around Sikeston, you'll find the efforts of the Sikeston Jaycees on virtually every corner. For nearly 60 years, this ever-changing group of young men has devoted a large part of their lives to giving back to our community. In return they get an occasional "thank you" and a kind pat on the back.

In truth, they deserve much more.

You need pay close attention to the many facets that combine to make up the Rodeo. Work on next year's Rodeo will actually begin immediately following the closing moments of this year's Rodeo. You don't plan an event this large overnight.

If you come in contact with a Rodeo visitor, try to make them feel welcome. Let them leave our community with a positive impression and let that word spread.

We can argue all day long about the needs in our community. But we also need to realize that many of those needs are being addressed by the Jaycees. They are able to tackle these issues because of the revenue generated from the Rodeo.

Put on a smile Sikeston. It's Rodeo week.