VINEMONT, Ala. - This weekend will mark the eighth year that Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry has hosted the Jimmy Arrington Memorial Rodeo, a tradition started by other administrations, and carried on by Gentry.
“The rodeo is the very heartbeat of the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office. It is more than just a rodeo. It is a time for families to be together and create memories that will last a lifetime. It strengthens a common thread that weaves throughout the communities of Cullman County,” said Gentry.
Despite its growth, Cullman County is an agricultural community and area children continue to grow up wanting to be cowboys, according to the sheriff.
“Walk down the hallways of our schools; you will find cowboy boots and Wranglers. The rodeo is a very special piece of what makes Cullman County great,” said Gentry.
The Special Needs Rodeo is one of the most important pieces of the rodeo, according to the sheriff. This year it will be on Thursday, Dec. 8, beginning around 8 a.m.
“It is one of the things that everyone at the sheriff’s office looks forward to every year,” said Gentry.
When asked what those attending can expect, Gentry said fans should expect a great time and great show.
“4L and Diamond S Rodeo Company always put on a fantastic show. This is a full-blown rodeo event: roping, barrel racing, clowns and entertainment, and of course – bull riding,” he said.
Gentry was quick to note that with the support of an overwhelming number of sponsors, the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office is able to donate to the special needs programs of all the schools in Cullman County.
In 2022, the sheriff’s office donated $15,500 to Cullman County Schools and Cullman City Schools. Over the past eight years, the rodeo has allowed the CCSO to donate a total of $124,000 to the schools.
In addition, the funds raised also help provide much need equipment for the men and women at the sheriff’s office. This includes rifles, body armor, body cams and vehicles.
“This year is expected to be an exceptional rodeo. Friday and Saturday night will provide fans with a championship level rodeo,” said Gentry.
For those who cannot attend in person, Gentry is once again making the rodeo available via livestream. This is the third year that rodeo has been presented in this format. It will be available on the Cullman Sheriff Facebook page, as well as on Spectrum cable channel 180.
“It is such an honor and a privilege to be the sheriff of Cullman County. Businesses, organizations and individuals have given both their time and financial support to make the rodeo possible. The massive crowds and overwhelming support of our citizens is also unmatched. For this, I am humbled and extremely grateful. As I have said many times, the office of the sheriff does not belong to me; it belongs to the citizens of Cullman County. Only together can this office and this community be successful,” said Gentry.
At a glance
Special Needs Rodeo
- Thursday, Dec. 8, at 8 a.m. at the Cullman County Agricultural Trade Center
Rodeo
- Friday, Dec. 9-Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Cullman County Agricultural Trade Center
- Gates will open at 5 p.m., with the kids’ scramble at 7, and rodeo starts at 7:30
- Tickets will be sold at the door. No pre-sale tickets. Adult $10, child/student $8, 6 and younger are free. CASH ONLY! An ATM will be available on-site as organizers are unable to process credit/debit cards at the venue.
