The Bristow Rodeo Grounds were bustling this past Saturday, August 2, as an estimated 4,000 people turned out for a back-to-school event. The crowd was so large it was equivalent to the entire population of Bristow’s city limits.
The event was a huge success, thanks to the collaboration of numerous community partners and over 30 sponsors. By 10:30 a.m., more than 330 backpacks had been handed out to students. The giving continued as 350 meals were served by noon, ensuring families were well-fed as they enjoyed the day.
Attendees were treated to a variety of free activities, including face painting, bounce houses, and a mechanical bull. One of the day’s highlights was a special appearance by Pistol Pete. In addition to the fun and games, the event also featured over 30 vendors and 62 “trucks” for visitors to explore.
Organized and funded by community partners such as the Rotary Club of Bristow, Community Bank, SpiritBank, Bristow Creative Arts Center, Bristow Round Up Club, and Kylie Thomas Photography, the event was a true testament to the spirit of the Bristow community. The organizers expressed their gratitude to everyone who attended, stating, “Thank you Bristow for making this the place to be for back-to-school fun!”
Here is The poetry contest winner, Rebecca Evans, poem about Touch-A-Truck.
Once there was a little town
and a little dream..
And no one could imagine,
The life this dream would bring.
It started small, just like most things.
With love, started to grow.
From firemen to monster trucks,
They all came to the show.
We met some hometown heroes
We met those who are unseen.
We stepped up on a trolley
And dreamed of places never been.
We saw the light in children’s eyes
When exploring something new.
With the overflow of laughs and smiles,
We knew this wasn’t through.
So dream, and grow, and dream we did
Till that dream outgrew its space.
It’s amazing how a dream will grow
With hard work and lots of grace.
Others joined in, and lent a hand.
That small town became the team,
That filled the needs, and helped us see
This small town is actually the dream.
