Independence Day takes on new meaning

By Cindy Meyers, Rodeo Attitude
Posted Friday, July 4, 2008

Each year people in the rodeo industry talk about Cowboy Christmas and sometimes in this industry the true meaning of the 4th of July or Independence Day sometimes gets lost in the flurry of activities. This year for all of us involved with both Rodeo Attitude and the Extreme Bullriding Tour the realities of Independence Day is hitting very close to home. For several years the tour has made a part of each event its tribute to the American military and the son of Rodeo Attitude co-founder, Todd Crase who is also the production side of the Extreme Bullriding Tour has participated in these tributes. All of us have watched Dakota Crase grow into a strong young man. Dakota chose to spend the summer between his junior and senior years of high school at boot camp. Upon graduation he headed for more training and then on to Iraq. This year when the tour stops in Cannon Falls, MN on July 5th his spot in the tribute will be vacant for while we all celebrate he will be defending the very freedom we are celebrating. While we complain about gas prices and high food costs he will be enduring the heat, the sand and on constant watch for snipers, suicide bombers and car bombs. That Todd is a proud father is an understatement.

Yes, this will be a special Independence Day for all of us thanks to a young man named Dakota and all the other young men like him that believe in America and are willing to fight for that belief!