CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office hosted its annual Rodeo Sponsor Dinner Tuesday night at the Cotton Creek Warehouse in Cullman, ahead of this weekend’s Jimmy Arrington Memorial Rodeo. According to Sheriff Matt Gentry, the dinner was an overwhelming success.
“It was by far the largest turnout in the history of the rodeo,” Gentry said. “There were over 670 people in attendance; this was almost 150 more people than last year’s event.”
The sponsor dinner is an intro event to the rodeo, which is held annually at the Cullman County Agricultural Trade Center in Vinemont.
“The rodeo is such an important event not only for the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, but for the entire community,” Gentry said. “Looking out at the record crowd of rodeo sponsors is truly humbling. Because of their continued support, the rodeo provides invaluable equipment for the sheriff’s office each and every year. Their support also allows us to give back to our communities and our schools. We are so blessed to have a community that works this hard to support us year after year.”
Elite Realty Owners Amy and Jamie Martinez purchased a table for the dinner and said they have done so for seven years.
“What this event does for the special needs community is so inspiring! We love supporting the sheriff’s office and everything they do with and for the sheriff’s rodeo,” Amy Martinez said.
Sister of Jamie Martinez and owner of Dixie Duds and Decor Melia Martinez Mead said the event truly brings the community together and it’s a highlight for Cullman and surrounding areas.
The rodeo is dedicated to the memory of former Cullman County Deputy Lt. Jimmy Arrington, who helped start the annual event.
According to the CCSO, the rodeo will provide family entertainment, with events including bareback riding, barrel racing, bull riding and more.
Proceeds from the rodeo help purchase equipment for the CCSO such as vest carriers, tasers and additional safety equipment. Area schools also receive donations.
The annual mini rodeo, the Special Needs Rodeo, will take place Thursday, Dec. 7, for over 1,000 special needs children who attend Cullman County area schools and the Margaret Jean Jones Center.
The rodeo will take place Friday and Saturday, Dec. 8-9. Gates open at 5 p.m. Kids’ scramble at 7 p.m. Rodeo starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door. CASH ONLY. Adult $10, child/student $8, children 6 and younger are free. There will be an ATM on-site because organizers are unable to process credit/debit cards at the venue.
The Cullman County Agricultural Trade Center is located at 17645 U.S. Highway 31, Cullman, AL 35058.
Copyright 2023 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
