NORTH WASHINGTON TWP— For the first time, the North Washington Volunteer Fire Department is sponsoring a rodeo for high school students as part of its 2006 fundraising campaign.

The rodeo, which will be held April 29-30 at the North Washington Rodeo Grounds, will include 10 events, from steer wrestling to roping contests. The spectator fee is $5. Interested high school-aged students must first register with the High School Rodeo Association.

The fire company has a busy schedule of other events coming up this year.

On March 17, the fire company is hosting its annual fish and oyster dinner starting at 4 p.m. in the social hall at the rodeo grounds. Prices are $8.50 for adults and $4.50 for kids.

On May 6, a rodeo queen contest will be held at the rodeo grounds. Interested contestants must be between 16 and 20 years old, own a horse and fill out an application. The winner will serve as an ambassador for the North Washington Rodeo Association during the summer.

August brings the biggest event of the year, the rodeo.

Activities will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 14 with the parade along Main Street to the rodeo grounds. The parade will feature floats, drum and bugle troops and numerous fire companies.

And then from Aug. 15 to 19, the fire company will host the 47th annual North Washington Rodeo.

The rodeo will start each day at 8 p.m., rain or shine. Adult tickets are $12 at the gate, $10 in advance. Children's tickets are $6 at the gate, $5 in advance.

Proceeds will go to the fire company. For more information, contact Jim Zanella at 724-287-6170.