First Founding 50 Inductees Celebrated

First Founding Fifty Inductees Announced

The newly formed Wide Open Spaces Foundation announced its first Founding 50 inductees Saturday night at the Burke Riding Club’s annual gala. The Founding Fifty was created to honor those who have spent countless hours supporting 4-H and rodeo in Gregory County. Inductees are recognized on the Wide Open Spaces website, in local newspapers, and with a handmade custom sign that will hang permanently on the rodeo grounds.

Ronnie Johnson

Ronnie didn’t grow up in rodeo, but when his daughter fell in love with horses, he jumped right in. Ronnie helped with practices, chores, and long summer days of travel. He became a lifelong member of the riding club and was known as the “master of the dirt,” grooming the arena into one of the best rodeo surfaces around. While his passing left a void in our community, his dedication to our hometown rodeo will continue to inspire, and we are proud to have him as the first member of the Founding 50.

Sylvia "Syb" Schlaht

Sylvia “Syb” Schlaht was honored as the first 4-H Founding 50 member. A friend to all, she was also a longtime supporter of Gregory County 4-H: Syb loved kids and judged at Achievement Days for countless years. Known also for her incredible baked goods, she leaves a lasting legacy of kindness and dedication to young people that Wide Open Spaces is proud to honor.

John Osnes

A keeper of the old way of doing things, John is known for hosting the Burke Threshing Bee, which helped lay the foundation for today’s Dog Days celebration. His beloved team and wagon became a staple of the Burke Stampede Rodeo, where every year, he gave someone being honored a ride in the arena. Local heroes sat alongside him as he brimmed with pride. John was known for always lifting up others, and the foundation is proud to recognize him as a Founding 50 honoree.

Jeff Waln

Jeff Waln played a key role in the first fifteen years of the Burke Stampede Rodeo as a stock contractor and rodeo advisor. His knowledge helped the riding club put on award-winning rodeos, including multiple South Dakota Rodeo Association Rodeo of the Year honors. He was a rodeo man extraordinaire, and his passing was a tremendous loss to the rodeo community. His legacy is part of the future we’re building through Wide Open Spaces.

Wide Open Spaces was formed to support Burke Riding Club and Gregory County 4-H’s plans for the Burke Rodeo Grounds. They aim to ensure our community has a place to support rodeo and youth activities for generations to come.

Founding 50 members invest $5,000 to support the first phase of a multi-year improvement project at the rodeo grounds. To become a Founding 50 member, contact Wide Open Spaces by email, phone, or visit with any board member. Donations of any amount are always welcome, and more information is available here.