This year at the ACTRA Finals in Reno, the overwhelming support was truly heartwarming. My discussions with the ACTRA team revealed their immense dedication to creating a family-friendly organization that brings our roping community together. Organizing such an event, like the Finals, requires tremendous effort, and their commitment to enriching our sport is admirable. For those contemplating joining ACTRA, know that it’s a welcoming environment where your family will feel right at home. With over a million dollars in prizes and payouts, Reno in October is definitely the place to be.
During my trip to Reno, I had the privilege of meeting Jack Bassett, the owner of D bar M Western Store. His remarkable store and even more remarkable hospitality left a lasting impression. Jack took a moment to share his thoughts, telling me, “You don’t know it, but the work you are doing with Ropers Sports News is so important, thank you for keeping it alive.” This feedback was an eye-opener. I had always understood the value of our publication, but hearing it from Jack—a pillar in our community—made it profoundly resonate within me. His endorsement not only highlighted the significant impact of Ropers Sports News but also strengthened my resolve to continue nurturing this legacy.
As I walked the event, I was often recognized by our readers, which was both surprising and uplifting. “Aren’t you the new Ropers Sports News gal?” they’d ask, and proudly I’d respond, “Well yes, yes I am!” This interaction always left me inspired and deeply proud to be a part of something so special, steeped in history and rich with relationships.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Sparrowk family, the Bray Family, Cindy York, Rayanne Currin, and Lacey Parsons for their warm welcomes and steadfast support. Thank you also to ACTRA, and to the ACTRA members for believing in me as I take up the baton; I’ll never forget it.
Embracing the local flavor of Reno, I stopped in at Louie’s Basque Corner, a spot renowned for its authentic Basque cuisine that anchors the historical charm of the region, and a host to the regions cowboys and cowgirls. This delightful experience inspired a new segment in our magazine titled “Hella Hungry,” where we’ll spotlight the best eateries along the rodeo and roping trail. If you know any hidden culinary gems, please email me—I’m eager to explore and share them!
I’d like to close this note with a spotlight on Dakota Eldridge, featured on our cover this month.
“But Dee, isn’t he a steer wrestler?”
Yes, but my connection with Dakota goes back to his teenage years in Elko, Nevada, where he was cutting his rodeo teeth in Roping. I recall vividly the time spent with my uncle, Dan Lock, at the Van Norman Ranch—those were truly the days. We had stopped by Allie Bear’s to pick up some ropes before catching Dakota at a local team roping. Watching his evolution from those early days to now sitting second in the world standings has been inspiring. Dakota’s journey epitomizes why I believe in sharing diverse stories within our sport, regardless of traditional boundaries. Supporting hardworking and talented young men and women is not just our focus; it’s my passion, and Dakota’s story—a tale of ambition rooted in a deep family legacy of rodeo—is a perfect example. Make no mistake, we will be in Vegas rooting him on!
See you in Vegas baby,
Dee Yates
If there’s a story out there that deserves to be told, send it my way, and let’s tell it!
