MEEKER | “To me appreciation goes a long ways, for what we do. I mean, not just for Range Call but for anybody we deal with,” said Boyd Richardson about the Range Call board’s decision to choose him as this year’s 4th of July Parade Marshal.
“I was just told that I was the Parade Marshal and I was like oh, hell, that’s very appreciated,” he said.
“I’m glad I don’t have to do a speech,” he said, noting that he’s not usually one to be the center of attention, despite the crucial role he plays in facilitating key Range Call events like the Pageant Reenactment, CPRA and Ranch Rodeos and more.
As a lifetime resident of Rio Blanco County and more than a decade managing the fairgrounds, Richardson and those on his team are more than up to the task. “Some things change here and there, of course, but for the most part, once you’ve done it so many times it just kind of comes natural,” said Richardson, adding, “We can pretty well accommodate most anything they bring.”
Preparation work continues at the fairgrounds under the experienced supervision of Richardson and the contributions of his team, who he also credits for helping year-round events at the venue go off without a hitch. The work includes packing down the indoor arena, preparing the outdoor arena for competitions, moving bleachers and other items into the ballfield and more.
“It’s a great honor,” Richardson said, noting that aside from heading up the parade, his personal Range Call schedule this year will remain the same, enjoying free time between events and overseeing the well-oiled machine that is RBC Fairground operations. “Quite a bit of time and effort goes into it, but in the long run it is enjoyable.”
BY LUCAS TURNER | [email protected]
