— especially kids who may never have had access to horses or rodeo before. “We want kids that have never even pet a horse to experience it,” Phylliss said. The vision goes beyond teaching rodeo skills. The family hopes the property becomes a safe place where children can unplug, build confidence and simply feel included. I just want other kids to know they have a safe place.” For R.J., the dream is already growing larger. He wants to someday compete in the NFR. “That’s where I want to be,” he said. Back in the arena, Ree continues working cattle and offering riding lessons between team roping drills with his daughter and grandson well after the sun sets. It seems his father was wrong. That legacy didn’t disappear. It multiplied.
Bella’s Favorite Quote “Equality is treating everyone the same. Equity is taking differences into account, so everyone has a chance to succeed.” -Jodi icoult -“Small reat hings”
RODEO GLOSSARY
Bella Washington is a dedicated school leader and passionate educator serving as the leader of Flourish Microschool in Maricopa, opening in fall 2026. Originally from Texas and raised in North Carolina, she relocated to Arizona in 2019 and has proudly called Maricopa home for over four years. With more than a decade of experience in education, Bella has taught students from Pre-K through 8th grade, developing a strong understanding of the academic and social needs of children at every stage. She believes education is her true calling and approaches her work with purpose and heart. Bella is especially passionate about youth mental wellness and the power of meaningful relationships in shaping a child’s success. She prioritizes creating safe, supportive spaces where students feel seen, valued, and under- stood, knowing emotional well-being is essential to academic growth. Driven by the belief that every child deserves access to an excellent education, regardless of background or learning style, Bella is committed to building an inclusive, nurturing environment. Through her leadership at Flourish Microschool, she strives to help all students grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. Outside of work, Bella is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who enjoys traveling and attending sporting events with her loved ones.
From roping and wrestling to racing barrels, here’s a quick guide to some of rodeo’s most common event jargon. All-around: Award honoring the cowboy earning the most money while competing in multiple rodeo events. Bareback riding: Rider stays aboard a bucking horse one-handed
for eight seconds while judges score control and technique.
Barrel racing: Horse and rider race a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels in the fastest time possible. Bull riding: Rider attempts to stay on a bucking bull one-handed for eight seconds while judges score the ride. Saddle bronc riding: Rider uses a specialized saddle while staying aboard a bucking horse for eight scored seconds.
Steer roping: Rider ropes a steer, brings it down and ties three legs together for time.
Steer wrestling: Contestant leaps from horseback to wrestle a steer to the ground as quickly as possible. Team roping: Two riders work together to rope a steer’s horns and hind legs in the fastest time. Tie-down roping: Rider ropes a calf, dismounts and ties three legs together against the clock.
Discover All Maricopa Has to Offer Courtesy of the City of Maricopa & InMaricopa.com
InMaricopa.com | June 2026
June 2026 | InMaricopa.com
26
27
Powered by FlippingBook