Tom Bauman moved to Cheyenne in 1959, working for General Dynamics Corporation. When General Dynamics left town, Tom moved into radio where he promoted Cheyenne and Cheyenne Frontier Days™ through his station KRAE. Tom was introduced to CFD by then Chairman Dutch Buckles who gave him a tour of CFD grounds, sharing his vision of the future of Frontier Days. Tom was hooked, and so began his half-decade of dedication to the largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration that continues today. It wasn’t long before Tom became a walking encyclopedia of rodeo action, contestants, and personalities. With his radio background and knowledge, he was then asked to become the assistant rodeo announcer for the day and night shows. His nickname “Weatherman Bauman” was earned as he started each day with his fearless forecast which was usually “Hot & Dry”, and of course he was blamed if it rained. In 1962, the committee hired Chuck Parkinson as the main rodeo announcer, and Tom was asked to assist him and be ready to step in as Chuck had a serious heart problem. Tom and Chuck became fast friends, working closely together for the next 26 years. When asked about his most memorable Frontier Days, Tom replied, “When I lost my friend for life, Chuck Parkinson. Chuck and I worked every day and night show of his CFD career.” Tom became involved with the HEELs in 1972. In 1980, the HEELs recognized that with CFD increasing from 6 to 10 days that more senior volunteers were needed and opened up membership to include all CFD Committees. Tom was selected president (Leather HEEL) and charged with developing a new selection process, by-laws and ethics code. Tom is proud that these procedures are still in place today. Over the next 10 years, Tom enjoyed working with Hadley Barrett in his announcing duties. In 2000, Tom was introduced to Justin McKee, “a bright, young personable and knowledgeable professional” who is now the voice of CFD. As part of Tom’s announcing duties, he also hosted the July 4th Celebration at Frontier Days, emceeing the event for 30 years until 2005. Tom is still in the announcer’s booth today and remains involved with the HEELs. Tom is most proud of the fact that in 50 years, he has never missed one minute of any rodeo performance. If you’ve been in the bleachers during CFD, then you’ve heard the great voice of Tom Bauman. When asked about being inducted into Cheyenne Frontier Days™ Hall of Fame, Tom replied, “I look at the list of this year’s inductees and I see people I worked with every day for 30 plus years. Cheyenne Frontier Days really makes you a family.”