For more than 50 years, lifetime director Mark
Storm has been the artist responsible for setting that tone by creating the
artwork and the theme for the Show's publicity materials. In appreciation
of Storm's work and to recognize his recent retirement, the Show has dedicated
the 2000 Souvenir Program in his honor.
To be a star is a dream of many. Ask a group of Houston
Livestock Show and Rodeo fans to identify the biggest star of the Show, and
you likely will spark a spirited debate. But ask Rodeo Express Committee members
that question, and their answer might be “TranStar.” You see, there
is a big-name star other than the talent that takes to the arena each year.
It is a behind-the-scenes traffic mobility system known as TranStar.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's decision to meld four existing judging contest committees, along with four judging contest events that previously
had no assigned committee support, into one Judging Contest Committee is creating
an entity whose sum is truly greater than its parts.
Traveling and competing in the professional
rodeo circuit takes a toll on the participants. The hours are long, and the
work is challenging, to say the least. Rarely does a contestant stay in one
city for more than three consecutive days. What defines a successful rodeo
to the contestants are the people dedicated to providing assistance to them
and to their families.
For many years, the Astrodome has been referred
to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” placing it in the company
of such awe-inspiring structures as the Great Pyramids of Egypt. Since 1965,
it has been Houston's sparkling jewel. When it opened, the designers and builders
said that no other 20th century building had attracted more interest or fascination
from the public. Today, the Dome continues to attract public interest in spite
of having two major sports tenants vacate the complex, leaving many wondering
about its future.
What's the hottest thing going in show animals today? Bet you wouldn't have
guessed meat goats. Meat goat popularity has skyrocketed in the past few years,
and it's evident at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Not only are more
Texas farmers and ranchers adding meat goat production to their repertoire,
but the number of youngsters who choose meat goats as 4-H or FFA projects
has grown at an astounding rate.
Whether you are a rodeo champion, a Houston Livestock Show and
Rodeo committee volunteer or even a drugstore cowboy, chances are you own
a Western belt and buckle. Despite the cowboy's reputation as a rugged individualist,
one thing is understood in the West — no self-respecting cowboy or cowgirl
is considered dressed until he or she has laced a Western belt through the
loops on his or her jeans.
Letters and comments should be sent to:
Marketing and Public Relations Division,
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
P.O. Box 20070, Houston, Texas 77225-0070
