Lauren Estes

Hartselle Enquirer

Over 1000 people lined the Priceville Celebration Arena during this year’s special need’s rodeo on Thursday, April 6.

The rodeo featured hundreds of special needs children and adults from across the valley to participate in a variety of activities and games all free of charge.

Rodeo Queen committee member Terrie Wright said this event has been going on for 7-8 years with dozens of people giving up their day to come and volunteer to work.

“We feed everyone lunch, and every special needs participate received a free t-shirt,” Wright said. “We had tons of activities for event attendees to be involved in like face painting, riding a mechanical bull, Zumba dancing, balloons, all kinds of stuff.

Wright said this year the event had between 1200-1500 people attend, which is comparable to years past.

Among the attendees was 15-year old Mason Southern who enjoyed having his face painted like a Dalmatian.

“I really liked the bowling,” Southern said. “I liked getting my face painted too.”

Alongside Southern was a 20-year veteran of the Morgan County Board of Education, pam Kasyan.

“I really enjoy the roping aspect of Special Needs Rodeo, but I love all of it,” Kasyan said. “I drive the school bus and this is something that we look forward to coming to.”

Tabitha Moss with Ability Plus and her co-workers brought over 60 people with special needs to the event.

Upon walking in arena, cowboy boots and hats lined the walls. Smiling faces were everywhere and laughs filled the air. For many Morgan County residents, this is an event they look forward to all year long.

Two of those residents are Jessica Holmes and her daughter, Albany.

“It’s so good to see teachers with so much passion here,” Holmes said. “This is something we have come to the last three years and we will continue to. Albany loves it and people are so kind and supportive here.”

Sheriff Ana Franklin did not return messages before the deadline of this article.