Airdrie, AB: Courtesy of the CPRA at www.RodeoCanada.com
Murray Milan
It is a privilege to stand as a candidate for President of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association. I believe that once we become involved in rodeo, it becomes a part of our lives forever. That has certainly been the case for me and my family both on the competitive side of the sport and behind the scenes as well.
I am seeking this position because I am convinced that our members need to have a greater voice in the association. It’s important to me that we listen to what people have to say. The CPRA is a member driven organization and that is a key factor as we move forward. I would like to see greater member participation. Members need to feel free to speak up and to ask questions – regardless of whether they are full card holders, permit holders etc…
As well, I believe in honouring the past and moving into the future. I remember fondly the days where we put a camper on our truck and headed off to the rodeos – but moving forward and changing to meet the challenges of the future is also imperative for rodeo to grow.
What I feel I bring to the position if I’m elected is a passion for the sport coupled with a business perspective that I feel is important in 2013 and beyond. I run two businesses that keep me busy but I’m making time for this because it’s truly important to me. I’ve invested a good part of my life in this sport and am willing to invest more because this is a priority. I believe we need to think outside the box and first and foremost remember that our fans are #1. They care about what goes on in the sport and we need to care about them in return by being up front and showing what’s happening behind the scenes.
As an association we need to be proactive and constantly be asking “How can we make this better.”
My passion for this sport and doing what I can to help make it better can best be summarized in my feeling that: if I’m blessed with grandchildren, I want them to compete at the CFR some day.
I just hope that everyone takes the time to vote.
Sincerely,
Murray Milan
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Jim Pippolo
Thank you for considering me as President of the CANADIAN PROFESSIONAL RODEO ASSOCIATION.
Many of you knew me recently as the CPRA Rodeo Administrator or as a CPRA Judge. I feel that it is important that the President represent the membership in a professional manner, and be knowledgeable in all levels of the sport of rodeo. My deep passion for this sport was introduced to me at a very young age by my parents who both competed in the sport of rodeo. In 1972, while in high school, I founded the B.C. High School Rodeo Association.
I was a CPRA contestant from 1975-1985, competing in the Bareback Riding, Steer Wrestling and Bull Riding. I also contracted as a Bullfighter and Rodeo Clown for three years.
During my rodeo years I served as an executive member on various Rodeo Committees and Associations, including Chairman of the Kamloops Outdoor Pro Rodeo for 6 years until moving to Alberta to work at the CPRA.
I was employed 5 1/2 years with the CPRA as Rodeo Administrator from 2006-2011 and during this period was also Interim General Manager from 2007-2009. During this time I gained a vast array of knowledge with regard to CPRA financials, bylaws, animal rights issues, the handling of press and media and many other issues that pertain to the sport of rodeo. I was also instrumental in the CPRA’s purchase and relocation of the new office to an investment property in Airdrie, saving the Association $70,000 a year from a lease in Calgary.
I am still presently active at many CPRA sanctioned rodeos as Chute Boss/Arena Director.
I feel we must stand united for our sport to grow strong and be proud to uphold our western values that we all represent which are important to us. Rodeo will survive because it is affordable family orientated entertainment and a very unique sport.
If elected President I feel I can offer my knowledge and experience to the Board for them to make informed decisions for the betterment and growth of the sport of Canadian Rodeo.
I thank you for your consideration.
Jim Pippolo
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