How We See It: Rodeo, Parson Arena Plans Great For Area

It's rodeo week in Springdale!

This year marks 70 years since Shorty Parsons and other members of the community founded the Fourth of July weekend Rodeo of the Ozarks nearly three years into the nation's fight against Hitler and the other Axis powers. Organizers say it has grown into one of the top five outdoor rodeos in the nation. While one can argue over rankings, no one can dispute the unbridled fun that comes from a night at Parsons Arena.

Whether it's a rodeo parade, competition to become the Miss Rodeo of the Ozarks queen, the unbelievably cute "mutton bustin'" or the intensity of contests from barrel racing to bull riding, the rodeo delivers fun with an outstanding dose of American patriotism. This year's performances run Wednesday through Saturday, with youth events starting at 6 p.m. and the rodeo at 7:30 p.m.

It's because the rodeo is such an institution for Springdale and the region that recent news of planned improvements to Parsons Arena is great to hear. It's special to have an event like this -- and all the other events held at the arena -- in a facility unlike anything else around these parts.

Supporters say they want the experience to get better for competitors and fans alike. Renovations plans include a roof over the stadium that would reduce inclement weather as a factor for events conducted there. Organizers say a roof could also create opportunities for other events, such as concerts or high school graduations. It would also provide welcome shade on that sometimes overheated July 4 weekend of competition.

The price tag will be in the millions, but such improvements to the facility are long overdue. The expectations of the public are changing. The kind of facility that's gotten the job done for years won't necessarily be a draw for today's entertainment dollar.

Renovation plans include the addition of a building on the north end of the arena to house meeting rooms, a commercial kitchen and a restaurant. It's clear the Rodeo of the Ozarks folks are thinking in terms of a year-round facility with a multitude of uses.

The plans for Parsons Arena dovetail nicely with the concerted efforts to revitalize downtown Springdale. Taken as a whole, all of these plans, together with the Razorback Greenway trail through downtown, are likely to breathe new life into the area.

"An arena that can be used 12 months a year would be an anchor for the east end of Emma Avenue and be a huge benefit for our downtown revitalization efforts," Mayor Doug Sprouse said.

Of course, there is money to be raised, and fundraising is expected to start later this year. This facility and the events it supports have played a vital role in Springdale's history, so we have no doubts organizers will find strong support in the community. Within the region, there are a lot of projects and programs competing for the philanthropic dollar, but Parsons Arena has earned its place in the conversation.

But before all that business takes place, there's some great fun to be had at this week's Rodeo of the Ozarks. We welcome the riders and participants in all events to Northwest Arkansas and wish everyone a safe week. It's time to kick off the next 70 years of Parsons Arena and the Rodeo of the Ozarks.