TCR Special Issue 2018 - Stamford American by Callie Lovvorn

Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

JUNE 29, 2018

Wednesday, July 4th

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Ring in the Rodeo at the Stamford Art Foundation Preview Party

A.M.

9:00 9:00 11:30

Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse Sponsors Barrel Race—Main Arena Hamburger Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed

4:00 6:00 7:30 9:30

Grand Parade— Downtown Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons Rodeo Performance— Main Arena Dance at Pavilion— Read Southall Band

P.M.

BY OREANA COMMUNICATIONS The Stamford Art Foundation’s Preview Party is

one of the premiere events of the summer, opening the Texas Cowboy Reunion festivities in style. This an-

nual event is a celebration of western art, food, and dance unlike any other in Texas, bringing together people from across the Big Country and beyond to honor our western heritage through art, right here in the Western Art Show Capital of Texas. This year’s 45th Annual Preview Party will be held Tuesday evening, July 3rd, beginning at 6:00 P.M. and will kick off the art show’s visual celebration of western heritage. Patrons will experience a one-of-a-kind evening with a steak dinner catered by Joe Allen’s and dance to the western swing music of Jake Hooker & The Outsiders. What sets the Preview Party apart from any other celebration is the mesmerizing Quick Draw Event, where a dozen artists will have one hour to create masterpieces before patrons’ eyes. Then, those pieces will be auctioned off to guests in attendance. Net

proceeds of the party and art sales benefit the West Texas Rehabilitation Center. Preview Party tickets are $60.00 in advance. A few limited tickets will be available at the door for $70.00. Reserved tables that seat 10 and are arranged under the pavilion may be purchased for $750.00. Tickets may be purchased at SGDA Law Offices, 127 E. McHarg St. in Stamford, or by calling Connie Decker at 325.669.7587. Visitors can view the artwork on display in the historic John Selmon Memorial Gallery throughout the duration of the Texas Cowboy Reunion, which closes on Saturday night, July 7. In addition, tickets for this year’s raffle of Doug Prine’s “Brandin’ at Goodnight” sell for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00 and can be purchased at the Preview Party or until the drawing during the last rodeo performance.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

JUNE 29, 2018

Schedule of Events at the Bunkhouse July 4th – Hamburger Lunch, Bunkhouse July 5th – 7th – Brisket Lunch, Bunkhouse July 5th – Member meeting, 10 a.m., Bunkhouse July 6th – Memorial Service, 10 a.m., Bunkhouse July 6th – Book Signing for Dawn Youngblood with her book, SMS Ranch, 1 p.m., Bunkhouse July 7th – Fiddler’s Contest at 9 a.m., Round Up Hall July 7th – Poetry Reading at 2 p.m. featuring John Erickson, author of Hank the Cowdog series, Round Up Hall July 4th-7th – Social gathering every morning at 8 a.m. with coffee and refreshments If you are interested in the Hamburger Lunch, tickets are limited and are sold before the event. To reserve your meal, call Eddie Jones at 325/660-1002. Tickets for the Brisket Lunch will be sold at the door Thursday through Saturday.

Quirky Parade Facts In 1931, the Stamford band was the official band and led the parade. The 1938 TCR was the year of two parades. The Grand Parade happened on the first day, and the following day there was a Children’s Parade. Anyone thirteen and under could be involved, riding stick horses, bicycles, tricycles, etc.

On Wednesday, July 4, officially kicking off the dance line-up will be the Read Southall Band from Stillwater, Ok made up of Read Southall- Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar; J.T. Perry- Lead Guitar/VH; Sevans Henderson-Keys/Organ; Jeremee Knipp- Bass; Reid Barber-Drums/Percussion. This will be a great night to bring the whole family. Ticket price is $5.00. There will also be a Cooler charge - see ticket office for details.

WELCOME TO THE 88TH TEXAS COWBOY REUNION

In 1939, special guests included Governor G.W. Lee O’Daniel, Lt. Governor Coke Stevenson, Edward Clark, former Secretary of State, and Paul Whiteman, an orchestra director who was fascinated with horses. 1939 was the first year moving pictures were made of the rodeo, by Homer P. Lee. In 1993, then Governor (and future President) George W. Bush served as the Parade Marshall.

DON’T FORGET TO VISIT THE DAILY TRADE SHOW AND THE WESTERN ART EXHIBIT THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND DURING EACH NIGHT’S RODEO PERFORMANCE.

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JUNE 29, 2018

Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

TCR Parade Route

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Johnny Anders

Parade Marshal of the 88th TCR Parade

The Calf Scramble will be Thursday and Friday night.

It’s not often we get to kick off the TCR on July 4th, but this year we do. The Grand Parade will be held on Wednesday, July 4th at 4 p.m. in downtown Stamford. In honor of Independence Day, the parade will follow suit with a Red, White & Blue theme. Leading the TCR Parade is the Grand Marshal. It is an honorary position that has been held by congressmen, local figures, western natives, a Hollywood stuntman, and more. Those who have held this position are held in the highest regard. This year is no different. Johnny Anders will serve as this year’s TCR Parade Marshal. He has been a figurehead in Stamford for over two decades. His dedication to his community by serving on the City Council for the past 20 years, with the last 13 as Mayor, makes him the longest serving mayor that Stamford has ever had. He’s a well-known businessman, owning and operating Anders Paint & Body, a business his father started back in 1959. Always willing to lend a hand,

he’s active in our community and a member of the Kiwanis Club. He is also a

Past Parade Marshals 2008 – Jody Nix 2009 – Tommy Blanton 2010 – Weldon Holbrooks 2011 – Wyman Meinzer 2012 - Tom Perini 2013 - SHS Champions 2014 - Wayne Baize 2015 - Ray and Ann Kinney 2016 - Jim and Nancy West 2017 - Dean Smith, Stuntman local artisan, with his metal works of art across the street from Harmon Park. He also built the T-Rex with its reflective ribs on Swenson Street, and the red-eyed spider at McHarg and 277. And let’s not forget Bedlam across the street from the spider. This huge pickup truck bed display encourages locals to paint to their hearts’ content on the metal canvases he has provided. “Being Mayor was really

Johnny Anders, TCR Grand Parade Marshal (Photo courtesy of Bearden Photography) great, but I think this is probably the greatest honor for anyone from Stamford,” said Anders about being name Grand Marshal. “When you can remember congressmen, governors and really important people getting this privilege, and then you are allowed to be the one… it doesn’t get any better than this.” Anders is excited to be this year’s TCR Grand Parade Marshal, and invites everyone to come out and join in the parade or sit back and watch. There is no fee to enter the parade, but registration is encouraged to be considered for prizes, and registration is available

online at www.texascowboyreunion.com under the Grand Parade page. There are also entry forms there that can be printed out and turned in. Join us for a Red, White & Blue July 4th Parade to kick off this year’s Texas Cowboy Reunion. Line up for the parade begins at 2 p.m. in and around the First Baptist Church parking lot, and the parade starts promptly at 4 p.m. Any questions can be directed to Cheyenne Bereuter, TCR Parade Chairman, cell phone 254-913-7374 or by email cheybereuter@icloud. com.

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Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

JUNE 29, 2018

Texas Artist Prine Donates Painting to Raffle BY OREANA COMMUNICATIONS Doug Prine, resident of Nemo, TX, donated his painting titled “Brandin at Goodnight” to the Stamford Art Foundation’s 45th Annual Art Show and Sale, benefiting the West Texas Rehabilitation Center. “Brandin’ at Goodnight” is one of Doug Prine’s many paintings that truly tell the story of his life. A longtime staple of the annual Art Show, Prine has worked as a cowhand, actor, his-

torical reenactor, and rodeo participant throughout his life. He served in the Army as a combat artist during Vietnam before going on to study at the Kansas City Art Institute. Prine is a visual storyteller, depicting western heritage and lifestyle from early mountain men and natives to the modern cowboys and cowgirls of today. Raffle tickets sell for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. Tickets may be purchased at the John Selmon Memo-

rial Gallery during the Art Show, in conjunction with the 88th Texas Cowboy Reunion, beginning at the Preview Party on July 3 and continuing until the drawing during the final rodeo performance on July 7. For those who can’t wait until the Art Show to purchase tickets, please contact the SGDA Law Offices at 127 East McHarg Street in Stamford, or by phone at 325.773.2255.

EXCERPT FROM 1930 OFFICIAL PROGRAM AND SOUVENIR BOOK OF THE TEXAS COWBOY REUNION The Texas Cowboy Reunion has been originated for the purpose of re-uniting and entertaining cowboys – those of the present days as well as those of the days gone by. We will have cowboy contests, presided over by cowboy judges, in which cowboys may demonstrate their skill and prowess in riding, roping, and handling horses and cattle. We will feature the cowboys who spend their regular time in working on ranches and with cattle, and professional rodeo performers will not be permitted to enter the different contests. The entertainment for the old-time cowboys and cattlemen will be part of our program, and the occasion will offer

an opportunity for such pioneers to meet and talk over the days in the cattle country from the time of the open ranges. In fact, this Reunion is dedicated to the men and women who were pioneers in the cattle business in Texas.

W.G Swenson, President

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Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

JUNE 29, 2018

8:00 9:00 10:00 11:30

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Thursday, July 5th A.M.

Slack Roping in Main Arena, Calf Roping & Double Mugging Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse Old Timers Gen. Membership Meeting— Bunkhouse Barbecue Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed

P.M. 4:00 Kids Rodeo Activities - Pavilion 6:00 Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons 7:30 Rodeo Performances— Main Arena “BIG COUNTRY TOUGH ENOUGH TO WEAR PINK NIGHT” 9:30 Dance at Pavilion— Parker McCollum w/ guest Kody West

Tough Enough to Wear Pink Kids’ Rodeo Kids are encouraged to participate in the Tough Enough to Wear Pink Kids’ Rodeo on June 30th at 4:00 at the TCR Slab. There will be lots of activities for kids, including a stick horse barrel race, calf roping, etc. The night of June 30th all Rodeo fans and contestants are encouraged to show their support by wearing pink. A portion of ticket sales will go towards breast cancer research and awareness.

11th Annual Tough Enough to Wear Pink Thursday Night

The Texas Cowboy Reunion asks: Are you tough enough to wear pink? Prove it; at the Thursday, July 5th performance of the Texas Cowboy Reunion. What is Tough Enough to Wear Pink? The Western Industry has joined together to raise awareness and funds for the fight against breast cancer. The color pink is not something you would associate with the sport of rodeo; however;

breast cancer has touched the lives of many rodeo and western lifestyle families and the Tough Enough to Wear Pink partners want to put this important health issue at the top of minds at rodeos and events across America and Canada. The Texas Cowboy Reunion encourages all fans and participants to wear Pink to the rodeo performance on July 3rd. The rodeo performance

begins at 8:00 pm with the grand entry. The rodeo will feature traditional events, including bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping, as well as the more ‘western’ events the TCR is known for such as the double mugging, wild mare race, and wild cow milking. The award-winning Lone Star

Ladies will also perform during the rodeo. Also for the little ones on Thursday, June 30th at 4:00PM at the TCR Slab there will be the TCR Kids Stick Horse Rodeo. Wear your pink and come and have fun & win prizes. All proceeds benefit local cancer victims.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

JUNE 29, 2018

On Thursday, July 5th, the featured band in the dance line-up will be Parker McCollum w/ guest Kody West. This will be a great night to bring the whole family. Ticket price is $5.00. There will also be a Cooler charge - see ticket office for details.

Parker McCollum Brings “Powerful,” “ForwardThinking” Texas Country to Stamford’s Texas Cowboy Reunion on Thursday, July 5 Parker McCollum is an artist on the ascent. The 6’3” Austin-based singer, songwriter and performer’s fervent live shows —made up of self-penned songs fans already know every word to — have seen an exponential increase in attendance in just a year. With his new 10-track Probably Wrong album (November, 2017) anchoring his string of sold-out concerts, Parker hits the road this summer with a set at the Texas Cowboy Reunion on Thursday, July 5. Here are the details for his show: Texas Cowboy Reunion, Address: US277 Stamford, TX, Tickets: $20 At just 25, Parker is focused on touring as much as he is on songwriting and his determination is unshakable. When he’s not on the road, he is booked in back-to-back writing sessions in Nashville. This January, Rolling Stone Country named Parker one of its “New Country Artists You Need To Know” calling him a “no-holds-barred, confessional singer-songwriter” drawing musical and songwriting comparisons to John Mayer and Jason Isbell. Parker released his second project, Probably Wrong — the acclaimed

follow up to his debut Limestone Kid — in November (2017) amid glowing reviews, including: “Probably Wrong and Parker McCollum are not to be trifled with. He’s put together a record that charts a way forward for country music, bridges two worlds in a divisive era, and gives one hope for the horizons of roots music moving forward,” and pointing to his “forward-thinking approach to a powerful expression of country music.” — Saving Country Music “Parker McCollum epitomizes the best that Texas Country has to offer. This CD garners 4.5 out of 5 stars.” — The Digital Journal His live performances have drawn impassioned fan reactions and instant fan-loyalty. His following has grown exponentially resulting in a more than 50% increase in advance-ticket sales and sold-out headlining shows — all in just the last 12 months. “He’s already on the verge of a major breakout, already playing the most revered dancehalls in Texas and opening for legends — and yet he’s still young enough to have room left to grow.” —Lonestar Music Magazine Keep up with Parker’s tour dates

and new music, here: Website: www.ParkerMccollum.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/ParkerMcCollum Instagram: https://www.instagram. com/parkermccollum/ Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/ParkerMcCollumMusic/ Bands In Town: https://www. bandsintown.com/a/4870949 YouTube: https://www.youtube. com/channel/UCRASLWIsC3B9kySXaM1EpTg

This picture of two Old Timers, identified as Guff La Foon and Luise Cowboy Monrow was found at the Cowboy Country Museum. Foon, who was born on March 18, 1877, was from Jayton, Texas, Old Trail Drivers. The caption says it’s been 22 years since he had a haircut or shave. Monrow was a TCU Cowboy from Shreveport, Louisiana. He was born March 29, 1882 at San Saba, Texas. (Photo courtesy of Cowboy Country Museum)

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Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

JUNE 29, 2018

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Friday, July 6th 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:30 1:00

A.M.

Slack Roping in Main Arena, Calf Roping & Double Mugging Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse Memorial Service for Old Timers at Bunkhouse Barbecue Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed Book Signing with Dawn Youngblood. The S.M.S. Ranch

P.M. 6:00 7:30 9:30

Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons Rodeo Performances— Special Attractions Dance at Pavilion —Jody Nix and The Texas Cowboys

Days like today, I am not sure if I lost my horse or found a rope.

This is probably the most famous picture taken by Ray Rector, The Cowboy Photographer. It is noted as one of the best action shots on the early cattle ranches. The title is, "A Horse Fallin' Back on the SMS Ranch." The caption reads, "The most dangerous possibility in ranch work, this snapshot is considered by cowboys and cowmen to be the most remarkable horse photograph in existence."

Quarter Horse Shows Began at TCR

In March of 1940, a group of men, led by Robert Denhardt, a professor at Texas A&M, and William Anson, a rancher, met at the Southwestern Exposition and Fat Stock Show in Ft. Worth, Texas. The meeting was attended by about seventyfive ranchers and inter-

ested businessmen from all over Texas. Some of these included Robert J. Kleberg Jr., manager of the King Ranch, Walter Hudgins, who helped develop the American Brahman, Mr. and Mrs. James Goodwin Hall, Mrs. Hall being the granddaughter of the Samuel

Burk Burnett, the man who started the Four Sixes Ranch, George A. Clegg, Dan and Jack Casement, all quarter horse breeders, W.B. Warren, rancher, J.H. Minnick, horse trader, and Robert Denhardt. The business of the meeting was to discuss forming a registry for American quarter horses. A board of directors was selected, and plans were made. The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) held its first official quarter horse show at the Texas Cowboy Reunion on July 2, 3, and 4 of 1940. The AQHA board of directors worked along with W.G. Swenson, Rudy Swenson, and A.G. “Swede” Swenson to plan the first show. Swede Swenson was named the first chairman of the show. With help from Frank Reeves at the Fort Worth Star Telegram, who provided publicity for the event, around sixty horses were signed up to compete. J.H. Minnick, an AGHA director, and the registry inspector, was the judge for that first show. Rules required that each horse must have a re-

served stall and stay on the grounds the whole show, so barns were built just south of the pavilion for the horses. Some handlers of the horses were known to sleep in the stalls with their horses because some were worth between $5,000 and $10,000. A big draw for the show was that people could bring their horses to the show, bringing with them all the information on the horse’s ancestry, could be approved for the registry by the judge, if the judge thought the conformation and required characteristics were present and the horse had the required bloodline. As story has it, the first year of the show was filled with excitement. According to the story Robert Denhardt told, during the last performance of the rodeo, the winners of the quarter horse show were parading around the arena and Swede Swenson let loose a Brahma bull into the arena while the “high tailers” were strutting around. All the riders made their way to the fences as fast as they could, and were only injured in their dignity.

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Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

JUNE 29, 2018

2018 TCR Sponsors

Friday Night, western swing king Jody Nix will bring out his fiddle once again to the enjoyment of audiences of all ages. Jody is known throughout the country for playing many western swing classics as well as many that he has written on his own. Jody is always a huge drawing card and is returning for his 31st year at the Texas Cowboy Reunion. Tickets for Friday night will be $15.

Quick Draw Event Draws Big for West Texas Rehab BY OREANA COMMUNICATIONS During the Stamford Art Foundation Preview Party on Tuesday, July 3, artists have only one hour to create original artwork before patrons’ eyes. The pressure on the artists is immense as patrons stroll amongst the easels, peering over artists’ shoulders to catch strokes of paint or pencil or pastel transform blank canvases into familiar scenes of western heritage. After the one hour of hurried creativity is over and artists have framed their works, patrons have the opportunity to bid on their favorite pieces, with the proceeds benefiting the West Texas Rehabilitation Center. Every year, several pieces draw fierce bidding from a number of patrons, each of whom are determined to win something that, just an hour before, existed only in the mind of the artist. This year’s Quick Draw

Event will feature a dozen artists vying to create works that will resonate with patrons and deliver much-needed funds to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center, which serves all patients regardless of their financial circumstances. Patrons may visit with artists at a more leisurely pace in the John Selmon Memorial Gallery, beginning at 6:00 P.M. In addition, patrons can dine on a steak dinner catered by Joe Allen’s Catering; dance to the beat of Jake Hooker & The Outsiders; and enter to win a piece by Doug Prine titled “Brandin’ at Goodnight.” Preview Party tickets are $60.00 in advance and a few limited tickets will be available at the door for $70.00. Also, reserved tables that seat 10 and are arranged under the pavilion may be purchased for $750.00. Tickets may be purchased at SGDA Law Offices, 127 E. McHarg St. in Stamford, or by calling Con-

nie Decker at 325.669.7587. or those unable to attend the 45th Annual Preview Party, visitors may cool off in the air-conditioned John Selmon Memorial Gallery through the duration of the Texas Cowboy Reunion, which closes on Saturday night, July 7.

2018 Saddle Sponsors Calf Roping-Haskell Feeds Double Mugging-Oman Cattle Company/Dr. John Bill & Belinda Oman Double Mugging-Walmart Women’s BreakawayArrow Ford Pioneer Tie-Down Calf Roping-Pate’s Hardware & Lumber Pioneer Breakaway Calf Roping-Big Country Electric Co-Op Pioneer Barrels-Stamford Insurance Agency Ranch Horse Competition-First Bank Texas-Stamford Barrels-Hargrove Crop Insurance 2018 Buckle Sponsors Women’s BreakawayFarmers Co-Op Gin Bull Riding-Stamford Pump & Supply Bareback Bronc-Rollins Oil Company Ranch Bronc-Duggan’s Auto Supply Barrels-Tankersley Funeral Home Saddle Bronc-James & Lauren Decker Team Roping-Quality Implement Co. Team Roping-L&M Farms Matched Horse Races-Big Country Crop Insurance Wild Cow MilkingFarmers Insurance Wild Cow Milking-Jackie Webb-Whitetail Properties Wild Cow MilkingEricksdahl Co-Op Gin Pioneer Breakaway-Cox Livestock Ranch Horse Competition-Wilson Trailer Mfg., Inc. Pioneer Barrels-Cooper Insurance Pioneer Tie-Down Calf Roping-Doug & Lisa Terrell Steer Riding-The Jim McCright Family 2018 Spur Sponsors Matched Horse RacesWedeking Brangus Pioneer Tie-Down Calf Roping-Joe Allen’s Catering Pioneer Breakaway Calf Roping-Don Welch Family Ranch Horse

Competition-Wingrove Oilfield Services 2018 Event Sponsors Title Sponsor-Capital Farm Credit Video Board SponsorBailey Toliver Chevrolet Chute Sponsors-Midway Plumbing, Ag Crop Insurance, Ekdahl Real Estate, Spitzer Animal Health, Decker Capital Partners Leader Board SponsorChad Dodson Roofing Matched Horse Race Track Sponsor-5D Construction LLC/Gary & Connie Decker Website-Oreana Communications Instant Replay Sponsor-C4 Fuels Pickup Men-Vista Bank Official Truck SponsorLawrence Hall Chevrolet Arena Banner SponsorsClear Fork Plumbing, Russell Family, Lazy Eight Ranches, SFI Dozer, Circle S Ranches Bullfighters Sponsor-Crop Production Services Out Gate SponsorLawrence Hall Chevrolet Contestant Hospitality Swenson House-SMS Ranch Cattle For Ranch Horse Competition-Circle Bar Ranch Kiss Cam-Edward Jones/

Joe McMeans Parade-E.C. Tool Company & Supply Official Beverage SponsorBill Reed Distributing Co. General Sponsors-Rike Real Estate, Stamford Tire & Appliance, The Drug Store/Lonnie Meredith, Larned’s Sale Center, Haskell Veterinary, Walcott Enterprises, Smith Welding, J&K, Jerry’s Waterline, Cooper Insurance, KVRP, Knox Waste Service, Ben E. Keith Groc. Div., Lawrence Hall, Kinney-Underwood Funeral Home, Farmers Cooperative Society of Stamford, Walmart, Sovereignty Abstract & Title Company Inc./James Decker, Big Country Crop Insurance, Wedeking Brangus, Swenson Land & Cattle Company, Edward Jones/Joe McMeans and Cole Wilson, Oreana Communications LLC/ Jessica Decker, SGDA Law Firm/James Decker, Travis Hawkins/Keller Williams Farm and Ranch, Capital Farm Credit, The Hair Hut, The Stamford Star

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JUNE 29, 2018

Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

2018 TCR Hostess Jennifer Caddell

Jennifer Caddell Photo by Bearden Photography

The 2018 Texas Cowboy Reunion Rodeo Hostess, Jennifer Caddell, was formally introduced at a Reveal Luncheon on Saturday, June 2nd, 2018. The TCR has been a special part of Jennifer’s life for many years. She was married to Casey Mathis who was involved in many aspects of the rodeo up until the time of his passing in 1999. Selecting an official hostess for the TCR is a longstanding tradition in Stamford dating back to the 3rd year of the TCR in 1932. Over the years, some of the duties have changed, as the times have changed, but the hostess is always a local woman selected to welcome visitors to the TCR. Leading up to the TCR, members of the community will host various parties to honor the Hostess. Jennifer will ride in the parade on July 4th, help serve breakfast to the cowgirls competing in slack barrel race on

Wednesday and then each night of the Rodeo she will welcome guests to the TCR. Jennifer’s bubbly spirit and love for the community of Stamford makes her a perfect fit to be the official greeter of Stamford during the 88th Texas Cowboy Reunion. “I love the TCR, it’s like a big family reunion. We get to see friends, that we only get to keep up with through social media, for a week. We laugh and catch up on what’s going on in our lives and we also shed a few tears for the ones who are no longer with us,” said Jennifer. “I am so proud of the improvements that have been made in the last few years. The hard work and time put in to making the TCR better year after year makes me proud to be from Stamford. I appreciate all their hard work and dedication, and I appreciate Capital Farm Credit’s sponsorship, which has made it possible to add so

many improvements to the TCR,” added Jennifer. Jennifer is the daughter of R. A. and Jinx Shaver. She was born and raised 29 miles north of Stamford in Rochester, TX and has been attending the TCR for more than 30 years. Jennifer graduated from Rochester High School and went on to graduate from Texas Tech University with her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, and continued her education at Abilene Christian University, earning a Master’s in Education. Jennifer has been an educator for 22 years and is currently the Director of Special Education for Haskell-Knox Shared Service Arrangement. During her time in education, she has worked in some aspect of educating children with special needs. She is the current President of the School Board for Stamford ISD. Jennifer and Dale, a former Ag Science teacher at Stamford ISD, own 5 Star Show Goats. They are also members of St. John’s United Methodist Church. She is married to Dale Caddell and is the proud mother and stepmother to five children: Chandler, Brooklyn Gillit and her husband Caston, McKenzie Sheppard and her husband Colby, Allie, and Cutter. She is also proud to add the title of J-Ma to the latest phase in her life to

grandchildren Magnolia and Kiptyn. When it comes to talking about her accomplishments, Jennifer would rather tell you about her children and how proud she is of each one of them. Chandler lives in Midland and owns RCCB, an oilfield service company. Brooklyn is an R.N. and lives in Abilene with her husband Caston and their 3-monthold son Kiptyn. McKenzie works in real estate in Lubbock. She and her husband Colby are proud parents of 9-month-old Magnolia. Allie will be a 6th grader at Stamford Middle School this fall and is involved in showing goats and pigs, dance, sports, and UIL. Cutter will be a 4th grader at Oliver Elementary and is involved in showing goats and pigs, sports, and UIL events. Jennifer and Dale’s first date was to the Saturday night TCR performance in 2003. Dale works in the judge’s stand every year and it’s one of the favorite times of the year for the whole family. Jennifer’s favorite event is the Double Mugging, but the Matched Horse Races are a close second. She is looking forward to another great Texas Cowboy Reunion and is thrilled to be the 86th hostess for the 88th Texas Cowboy Reunion.

STAMFORD 325.773.3644 122 West McHarg capitalfarmcredit.com NMLS493828

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Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

JUNE 29, 2018

2018 TCR Sponsor Josie Fladager Josie Fladager, daughter of Travis and Dawn Fladager of Anson, Texas, is one talented 16-yearold who will be setting the cloverleaf pattern each night of the rodeo as the Sponsor of the 88th Texas Cowboy Reunion. She comes from a long line of horsemen and women, including her great-grandpa, Austin, who worked on the XIT Ranch in the Texas Panhandle and did a little bit of everything. Josie’s father, born and raised in Montana, grew up in rodeo as well and started riding saddle broncs at the age of 13. Her mother worked for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association in the entry office and has ridden horses most of her life. Josie’s grandmother, Peggy Bleiker of Hawley, Texas, has run barrels for 62 years and will be competing this year at the 2018 TCR in the Pioneer Barrel Race. Josie and her Granny (Peggy) switch out riding horses at the different competitions they travel to together. They alternate between two horses: Special Emily and Shaman Jet Smoke. Josie plans on riding Shaman Jet Smoke, a 9-year-old quarter horse, while her granny will be riding 19-year-old Special Emily. Josie has Ima Joe Bug, a 17-year-old quarter horse, as her backup horse, if needed. While the duties of the Sponsor have changed over the years, the requirement to know how to run the barrel pattern is still the same, and something Josie has been doing since she was just three years old. She was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado. At the age of two, her family moved to New Mexico and then moved to Texas when she was four, one year after she started competing. Riding horses has always been a big part of her life;

the family photo album has several pictures of her as a baby riding with her mom. Other duties as Sponsor will include serving breakfast during the slack barrel race, welcoming all of the barrel racers to the TCR and riding in the Grand Parade on July 4th. As Sponsor, Josie cannot compete this year. Josie was awarded her first buckle at the age of three at the Western Heritage Stick Horse Rodeo. Her first saddle was won in 2009 at the West Texas Barrel Racers Association (WTBRA), in the Eight and Under category. At her first year participating in the American Junior Rodeo Association (AJRA), she won the Average at the Finals. Over the years, Josie has won enough tack to have at least two complete sets. “It’s hard to pick just one favorite memory, because there are so many great ones. My favorite at Stamford was when I ran Friday night last year. It was probably the most fun I’ve had!” said Josie. When reflecting on that memory of the 2017 TCR, Josie said, “It was really the first time I got to run in a rodeo outside of a junior or high school rodeo. One thing that made it so cool was the storm that was coming in and I’ll never forget the way the lightening seemed to dance in the clouds and race across the sky. There was a special energy in the air and my horse could definitely feel it. Our first barrel is our trouble barrel and that night we turned it the best we ever had. It was really a special night and one I won’t soon forget.” Josie will be a junior at Anson High School and is part of many organizations including: AJRA, Junior Director; WTBRA; THSRA Region II; FFA, District Secretary; FCS, Vice

Saturday, July 7th 8:00 9:00 10:00 10:00 11:00 11:30

A.M.

Old Time Cowboys Calf Roping and Breakaway Roping Eliminations—Main Arena Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse Ranch Horse Competition in Main Arena Old Timers Fiddler’s Contest— Bunkhouse Barbecue Cook off Judging—Chuckwagon Grounds Barbecue Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed

P.M. 12:00 Chuckwagon Lunch at Ranch Chuckwagons 12:00 Chuckwagon Cookoff Judging—Chuckwagon Grounds 1:30 Cowboy Symposium — John Erickson- Roundup Hall 3:30 Matched Horse Races - South side of Grounds 6:00 Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons 7:30 Rodeo Performances— Special Attractions CHAMPION SADDLE PRESENTATIONS 9:30 Dance at Pavilion— Red Shahan w/ Dalton Domino

Josie Fladager Photo by Bearden Photography President; NHS; PALS; Student Council, Secretary; Athletics, Regional Pole Vault; Band; and Spanish Club. “I have been coming to the rodeo for many years, and competed for the first time last year, but I didn’t think being Sponsor would ever be something I would get to do. I am so excited!” said Josie. Her plans after high school are to attended

Texas A&M or Texas Tech University, to become a veterinarian. Josie would like to wish her only sibling, Wyatt, a very Happy Birthday on July 4th, as he will be turning 15 this year.

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Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

JUNE 29, 2018

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

2018 TCR Cowboy Symposium Features Author of Hank the Cowdog

Will Rogers, the famous Oklahoman comedian, showed spectators at the Texas Cowboy Reunion in Stamford this year that he had forgotten none of his tricks of twirling a lariat. The cowboy film comedian started his circus and vaudeville career as a rope twirler. (From a 1935 newspaper clipping, courtesy of Chino Chapa)

Visitors, Rodeo Fans Gathered by Thousands for Cowboy Reunion

Stamford American July 7th, 1950

With the dawning of the sun Saturday morning, the annual Texas Cowboy Reunion began. All highways leading into Stamford were jammed and packed with automobiles carrying rodeo fans and contestants from surrounding communities and other parts of the state. Soda stands, balloon vendors, 3-minute picture making stands, shooting galleries and souvenir stands began springing up over Stamford as everyone sought to entice the visitor. By the time of the parade around 11 o’clock, sidewalks were overloaded and people overflowed on the streets and around the city square. Some of the less energetic took positions on the lawn and waited for the big parade to start and a look at Allan Shivers, governor of Texas, who rode at the head of the cowboy columns. With a sudden clash and bang and shout of “Here it comes,” the Hardin Simmons Cowboy Band strode into sight around the corner behind six beautiful girls on white horses-the first of a

forty-minute march around the thoroughfare of Stamford. “Has anyone seen my youngster?” exclaimed one woman searching frantically for her child who, no doubt, was following several cars in the parade dishing out free tidbits for hungry youngsters. As is the case, the heat to the morning took its toll as one young girl had a sun stroke on the post office lawn as the final cowboy of the parade whooped by. People surged around her. After several minutes, she began to regain composure and beg her parents to take her to the rodeo. With the dinner hour nearing, hundreds of cowboys and cowgirls dressed in their most colorful western attire, crowded local cafes and eating places for lunch. In slamming her car door as a respite to a crowded café, one person was heard to say, “This is the last time I’ll come here!” But no matter what she said then, chances are that she will return next year for the annual shuffle and bustle that goes with the Texas Cowboy Reunion, one of Texas most colorful events.

The Texas Cowboy Reunion Cowboy Symposium has a special treat this year. Author of Hank the Cowdog, John R. Erickson will be reading from his beloved children’s book series and playing original songs. Erickson, a former cowboy and ranch manager, is gifted with a storyteller’s knack. Through the eyes of Hank the Cowdog - a smelly and smart-aleck dog who is Head of Ranch SecurityErickson gives readers a glimpse of daily life on a ranch in the West Texas Panhandle. This series of books and tapes is a favorite in schools and libraries across the country, has sold more than 9 million copies, is a Book-of-the-Month Club selection, and is the winner of the 1993 Audie for Outstanding Children’s Series from the Audio Publisher’s Association. Hank the Cowdog made his debut in the pages of The Cattleman, a livestock trade magazine published by the Texas Southwest Cattle Raisers. When Erickson started getting “Dear Hank” letters, he knew he was onto something. So, in 1983, he self-published 2,000 copies of The Origi-

nal Adventures of Hank the Cowdog, and they sold out in 6 weeks. At the Symposium, Erickson will be reading from his newest series and playing original songs with his banjo. Hank the Cowdog books will be available for purchase at the event. Fans will also be able to get their books autographed by Erickson. Cowboy Symposium Chairman Linda Dalliston, who has coordinated the Symposium for 29 years, is excited to bring Erickson to the TCR for everyone to enjoy. Dalliston has known Erickson for about 30 years from participating at numerous other cowboy poetry symposiums around Texas. She has wanted to have Erickson come to the TCR for many years and this year it finally came together. “I am really happy he will be able to join us,” Dalliston said. “He is an excellent entertainer.” Dalliston hopes everyone will come out to see the special program Erickson is preparing for the guests of the TCR. The Symposium will be Saturday, July 7 at 1:30 p.m. at the Stamford Round Up Hall. Entry will be $5 a person and kids three and under will be free. Dalliston said she already has people from out of town calling about the event. The Symposium is a longtime tradition of the TCR that is presented as a tribute to the original cowboys who came to the TCR to show their roping and riding skills. The 2018 Cowboy Symposium will be a special one with Erickson in attendance. Guests may want to come early to ensure their seat for this special event. The doors will open at 12:45 p.m.

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Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

JUNE 29, 2018

2018 Working Ranch Cowboy Award Bill Smith The Texas Cowboy Reunion was organized in 1930 for the purpose of preserving the traditions of the early-day ranch country and to honor ranch cowboys that served as the foundation for the development of the cattle industry in Texas. In 2001, the Texas Cowboy Reunion officially initiated a means of recognizing and honoring these individuals who pursued a lifetime career as working ranch cowboys. This year, the Texas Cowboy Reunion takes great pleasure in honoring Mr. Bill Smith. Please join us on July 7th, 2018, as the Working Ranch Cowboy Award will be presented to him during Saturday night’s rodeo performance. Bill Smith was born in March of 1949 to Ab and Alma Smith, to a family of five sisters and one brother. He married Dana Kidd in 1972. They have one son, Billy and daughter-in-law, Monica, who have a son named William Kidd Smith that will be two years old in September. Bill was raised in northwestern Kent County, across the river from Chimney Creek, between Spur and Post. He went to school in Spur and has lived in that area with his wife ever since. Bill’s family has a long history with the Swenson Ranches. His father worked for them and used to hire the help each year to put on the Texas Cowboy Reunion. Bill also had two uncles, Glenn and Billy, who worked for the Swensons. Many of his family members worked on the Swenson Ranches at some point in their lives. Bill’s father bought a small place in 1954 when he left the Swenson Ranches. He ran a few cows and always had horses around. “I always like the horse end,” said Bill. His father bought and sold horses as he was growing up, so he had the opportunity to be around that part of the business a lot. Kent County had an active 4-H horse program then and Bill remem-

bers being hauled to 4-H horse shows as he was growing up. Bill rode and showed horses for the public, until going to work at the Spur Headquarters Ranch in 1973. The Spur Headquarters Ranch was owned by the Jim Barron family. Jim’s wife, Nora, was an SMS Ranches heir. Bill and Dana moved onto the ranch in about 1986. In 1995, the Barrons retired and Bill was given the opportunity to lease the ranch from them. He maintained the Spur Headquarters Ranch until it was sold to Randy Andrews of Lubbock. After the ranch sold, Bill made a deal with the new owner. They partnered on some cows for a few years and Bill sold him on half interest in the broodmare band that he had started putting together in 1986 on the Tongue River Ranch. Bill got out of the cow business with Randy, when he took over the cow end himself, but continued to live on the ranch and kept the mare herd there. At one time, they had as many as fifty mares. The business luckily made it through the 2011 drought. In 2015, Bill and Dana moved and decided to sell some of the mares and to split up the rest of them. Currently, Bill has about 15 mares that are kept on the Matador Ranch. A year after leasing the Spur Headquarters Ranch, Bill was able to lease the J.B. Morrison Ranch, which is about ten miles south of Spur in northwestern Kent County. The ranch is across the fence from where he

was raised. The J.B. Morrison Ranch is owned by Eric and Linda Swenson, she being the daughter of the late J.B. Morrison. Bill still has that lease and runs a cow-calf operation there. Bill plans to continue to run a few cows and horses, as long as he can. Through the years, Bill has helped organize the Ranch Horse Association of America (RHAA). The RHAA is an organization that helps cowboys learn horsemanship and gives them opportunities to compete in shows. Bill was also involved in starting the Western Heritage Ranch Horse Sale, held each May during the Western Heritage Rodeo weekend in Abilene. He also helped in developing a 3-year futurity and sale with a group of ranches from Texas and New Mexico. They called it the Caprock Ranchers Sale and Futurity. The sale and futurity is held in Levelland each July. It has developed into a group that will be called the National Rope Horse Development Program, where they are hoping to show and train young horses, head some of them to team roping futurities, and be able to sell some for people. Following in his family’s footsteps, Bill has been involved with the Texas Cowboy Reunion over the years. He has been a judge for the TCR Ranch Horse Competition since 2015 and won the competition himself in 1995. Bill stated, “I do appreciate being thought of for this award.”

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JUNE 29, 2018

Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

On stage Saturday, July 7 will be Red Shahan w/ Dalton Domino. As career trajectories are measured, Red Shahan has covered a hell of a lot of ground in the three years since the release of his debut, Men and Coyotes — not to mention since his salad days a decade ago, when he began haunting the Lubbock club circuit and made the fateful decision that music would be his life’s path rather than baseball, rodeo, or firefighting. After a few more formative years of honing his chops and confidence as a songwriter, singer, and versatile musician in different projects throughout the region, he relocated to Fort Worth and began focusing in earnest on launching a solo career and recording the album that would serve as his official introduction to the Texas music world at large. Men and Coyotes was originally released in the summer of 2015 with little fanfare, but the red-headed troubadour with the lonesome howl and penchant for somber portraits of busted boom towns and gritty, white-knuckled anthems wasn’t long in hitting his stride and building a loyal audience the old-fashioned way: organically, from the ground up. Ticket price is $15.00.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Stamford American - TCR Special Issue

JUNE 29, 2018

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Texas Cowboy Reunion

Stamford, Texas July 3 - July 7, 2018 Schedule of Activities Western Art Show and Sale—Art Gallery, Pavilion Building July 3, 4, 5, 6, & 7 —Preview Party and Sale, July 3rd, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday— July 3rd A.M. 9:00 Team Roping in Main Arena P.M. 6:30 Art Preview Party—Pavilion Building Featuring Jake Hooker and the Outsiders Wednesday— July 4th A.M. 9:00 Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse 9:00 Slack Barrel Race—Main Arena 11:30 Hamburger Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed P.M. 4:00 Grand Parade— Downtown 6:00 Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons 7:30 Rodeo Performances— Special Attractions 9:30 Dance at Pavilion— Read Southall Band Thursday— July 5th A.M. 8:00 Slack Roping in Main Arena, Calf Roping & Double Mugging 9:00 Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse 10:00 Old Timers Directors Meeting at Bunkhouse 10:30 Old Timers Gen. Membership Meeting— Bunkhouse 11:30 Barbecue Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed P.M. 6:00 Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons 7:30 Rodeo Performances— Special Attractions “Big Country Tough Enough to Wear Pink Night” 9:30 Dance at Pavilion— Parker McCollum and Guest Kody West

Friday— July 6th A.M. 8:00 Slack Roping in Main Arena, Calf Roping & Double Mugging 9:00 Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse 10:00 Memorial Service for Old Timers at Bunkhouse 11:30 Barbecue Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed P.M. 6:00 Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons 7:30 Rodeo Performances— Special Attractions 9:30 Dance at Pavilion Jody Nix & The Texas Cowboys Saturday— July 7th A.M. 8:00 Old Time Cowboys Calf Roping and Breakaway Roping Eliminations—Main Arena 9:00 Coffee and Fellowship for Old Timers at Bunkhouse 10:00 Ranch Horse Competition in Main Arena 10:00 Old Timers Fiddler’s Contest— Bunkhouse 11:00 Barbecue Cook off Judging—Chuckwagon Grounds 11:30 Barbecue Lunch at Bunkhouse Shed P.M. 12:00 Chuckwagon Lunch at Ranch Chuckwagons 12:00 Chuckwagon Cookoff Judging—Chuckwagon Grounds 1:30 Cowboy Symposium - Featuring John R. Erickson, Author of the Hank the Cowdog - Roundup Hall 3:30 Matched Horse Races - South side of Grounds 6:00 Chuckwagon Dinner at Ranch Chuckwagons 7:30 Rodeo Performances— Special Attractions Champion Saddle Presentations 9:30 Dance at Pavilion— Josh Grider Red Shahan with Guest Dalton Domino

Daily Trade Show & Western Art Exhibit - Nightly Chuckwagon Dinner - Rodeo Performances at 7:30 p.m. Dances at the TCR Outdoor Covered Pavilion nightly at 9:30 p.m. (Gates open at 9:00) For Ticket Info Call—325-773-3661 - WWW.TCRRODEO.COM - Tickets Available at the Door