WINNEMUCCA - Local tourism officials are encouraging the community to prepare for two huge events that will descend on Winnemucca over the Fourth of July holiday.
The Silver State International Rodeo will return to Winnemucca from Sunday, June 30, through Saturday, July 6, while the Little League 11-12 All-Star Playoffs will take place from Sunday, June 30, through Sunday, July 7.
According to local Little League chairman Jeff Dawson, the 11- and 12-year-old playoffs will bring nine teams to the community along with their families and coaching staff.
Additionally, a contingent of Little League officials will make the trip, including umpires, Western District Board members and others.
In all, about 600 people will be in town for the week - the same week that another 500 high school athletes and their families will be in town for the annual Silver State International Rodeo.
Winnemucca Convention and Visitors Authority Director Kim Petersen said the twin events will increase Winnemucca's population by well over 2,500 people.
"That's why we're trying to spread the word now," said Petersen, "so our local stores, gas stations and restaurants can be prepared with adequate supplies and staffing, and our local motels and RV parks will know what to expect."
Petersen continued, "We want to roll out the welcome mat to both these groups. We are grateful that they want to come here and enjoy successful events. Now we need to do everything we can to make sure that happens."
The Silver State competition caps off the regular rodeo season for high school athletes who finished their respective state province in fifth through 10th place.
The rodeo was held in Fallon for 25 years; the event is currently in the third of a five-year contract with Humboldt County with the possibility for a renewal from 2016 through 2020.
In addition to a week filled with rodeo competitions, the event also includes a Fourth of July Parade on Thursday, July 4. Parade entries in a dozen different categories will be accepted.
As to the 11-12 All-Star Playoffs, this will be the event's first foray in Winnemucca.
The local event is a district competition, with the winners of the All-Star Playoffs moving to the state level and even the national or international levels with the right winning streak.
Dawson said hosting the games here is "an honor and a unique opportunity." It's also a lot of work, especially in terms of raising the $5,000 it takes to put on the playoffs, but donations from the Winnemucca Convention and Visitors Authority, Humboldt General Hospital, Barrick Mining Company and others helped ensure the event's success.
Petersen said Humboldt County will see about $3.5 million in economic impact from the two events.
"We all have a vested interest in making sure these event participants are welcome and well taken care of in our community," he said.
Petersen added, "We're thrilled they've chosen our community, and with adequate preparation, we can show them they made the right choice."
For more information on the Silver State International Rodeo or on the Little League 11-12 All-Star Playoffs, please call the Winnemucca Convention and Visitors Authority at (775) 623-5071.
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