Dear Editor:
At the close of the 30th annual Meeker Classic Sheepdog Trials, we are again reminded of the extraordinary qualities of this community and why it’s such a special place to call home. What a showcase of volunteerism, community and friendship! Handlers, vendors and visitors to the Meeker Classic marvel at how the community pulls a five-day event together. Each and every volunteer and stakeholder commits their time and energy selflessly to insure the success of an event that has marked its spot as one of the premier sheepdog trials ever. Setting the standard for other trials to follow, the Meeker Classic boasts a volunteer base of around 350 people who give of their time or talent during the year. We want to express our deepest appreciation and thanks to all that helped make this year’s trial a success. Each of you made an important contribution for your community. Volunteers of all ages pitched in to park cars, run concessions, take tickets, pick up trash, clerk and time, exhaust the sheep, put up posters, raise the flags, help with the education program, work in the art barn and so much more. We received numerous comments on how happy and welcoming our volunteers are—you are wonderful ambassadors for Meeker and Rio Blanco County. This community should be especially proud of the young people that pitched in to help out. Eighth-graders kept the grounds immaculate with their trash duty, washing tables and checking porta-johns, FFA Chapter members helped man the parking lot and taught event visitors about their projects, 4-H members pitched in to sell programs and serve lamb, Range Call Royalty helped during the concert and with opening ceremonies and various individual students and groups were seen helping everywhere. It’s a remarkable commentary on the youth of our community. Many civic groups joined in to make their contribution to the event—our deepest gratitude to the Lions Club, Masons, Woolgrowers, VFW and VFW Auxiliary, Rio Blanco Historical Society, Meeker Chamber and all of their volunteers to partnering with us. The CNCC Sniffer Dogs group helped with the education program and did several other talented craftsmen and artists. The list goes on and on—each and every segment of the trial from inception to cleanup involved multiple volunteers. Equally important are the various local sponsors that have supported the Meeker Classic over the years. This truly was a community effort. We received numerous compliments on the community, the event and the people: “The people are friendly, the community clean and beautiful and the trial the best they’ve been too.” Meeker has created an event that welcomes all, as they share a week together each September. Visitors feel a connection—a sense of kinship—a of community that embraces all. The time, effort and contributions of so many make this event a success. We thank each and every one of you for what you do. Meeker truly is “SOMETHING”!!!
Thanks so much,
The Meeker Classic Board of Directors
