ALTUS - Hundreds attended the first night of the 2006 Great Plains Stampede Rodeo on Thursday. The 2006 performances are dedicated to the late Sen. Robert Kerr, with tonight's rodeo being dedicated to former Western Oklahoma State College rodeo coach Barry Davis.

The rodeo will continue today and Saturday with performances beginning at 8 p.m. Each night has a variety of events, from a mini-bull exhibition to a calf scramble and tug of war.

Before the rodeo today "The Witty World of Will Rogers” with impressionist Gene McFall will be held at the Expo Center of the Jackson County Fairgrounds from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. A barbecue dinner will be served from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Advance tickets for adults are $5, and $3 for children. Tickets at the door will be $8 for adults and $5 for children.