Features Editor

There is a fascination with the Old West that transcends generations.

Just as their grandfathers and grandmothers before them, kids like to pull on the boots, top on the hat and take an imaginary journey – on horseback, of course, – to the Wild, Wild, West.

A group young wranglers and cowgirls will make their "wildest" dreams come true when they compete for the titles of Mr. Wrangler and Miss Rodeo at the Pike County Rodeo Pageant at 7 p.m. Saturday at Cattleman Park.

The event is sponsored annually by the Pike County Cattlewomen’s Association.

Betty Hixon, president of the Cattlewomen, said the Pike County Rodeo Pageant is a fun event for the youngsters and their families.

"We want the experience to be a good one for the children so the pageant is very informal," Hixon said. "The contestants wear western attire and there are no practice sessions to attend. The contestants simply walk on stage and they are judged, mainly,

on personality, stage presence."

The age divisions for the cowgirls are from 3 through 18 and for the little wranglers, 3 through 9.

"We have a wonderful group of contestants and we invite everyone to come out to Cattleman Park Saturday night and support these boys and girls as the compete for the titles of Miss Rodeo and Mr. Wrangler.

The winners will represent the Cattlewomen at the Memorial Day Weekend Rodeo at Cattleman Park in May.

Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for children ages 5-12. Children under age 5 will be admitted free.