Good Eatin' Kicks Off Houston Rodeo

By Nancy Nguyen

Barbecue cook-offs, concerts and carnival rides were among the events that took place at the Houston Rodeo Cook-Off Feb. 26-28 at Reliant Park.
Visitors from across the United States come to Houston to enjoy the rodeo, which includes bull riding, pig races, pony rides, good food and carnival games in addition to the cook-off.
Reliant Energy, Houston Ford Dealers, Miller Brewing Co., Coca-Cola and BP Amoco PLC are among the sponsors this year for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
 “I have been attending the rodeo for 36 years and I always look forward to eating the turkey legs at the different booths,” said attendee Rose Thompson.  “I look forward to this like I do Christmas because it is a chance for me to spend time with my family and friends and show my Texan spirit.”
The carnival features many rides like the Ferris wheel, known as the La Grande Wheel.  Elbert and Verna Davis of Houston were attracted like many other couples to the ferris wheel, Speed and Alpine rides.
“We have been coming to the rodeo cook-off for years and I always drag my husband to ride with me on the Ferris wheel,” Verna said. “It brings back memories from my childhood when I use to go to the local fair in my hometown.”
Along with the tons of barbecue, drinks and desserts there were hundreds of booths with music, souvenirs and games from different companies around the Houston area.  One of the big companies from Houston that participates in the rodeo every year is Stewart & Stevenson, a designer and manufacturer of specialized equipments.  
“This is my first year participating at the rodeo and I am excited that I get a chance to party with co-workers and the crowds,” said Dally Luna, an employee at Stewart & Stevenson. “Even though I have to be out here at the break of dawn, I get to party in the afternoon with all the other booths and the crowds.”
In the early 1970s, Elvis Presley performed at the rodeo and drew 43,615 people to his concert. Since then, the rodeo has drawn many performers representing various genres of music. This year’s line up includes the Jonas Brothers, Keith Urban, ZZ Top and Gladys Knight.
“After the cook-off, I always come back for a concert,” said Andrea Shannon, cook-off attendee.  “This year I will be going to see Faith Hill with my daughters.”
 After 37 years of the rodeo being held in the Houston Astrodome, in 2003, it found a new home at Reliant Stadium. In 1994, the rodeo was broadcast for the first time on pay-per-view.
Viewers can contact cable providers to find out more information concerning live events, or call 1-800-RODEOTX.
While the cook-off is over for this year, the rodeo extravaganza continues until March 22.  For ticket prices, event times and other information, call 1-800-726-1313 or visit their Web site at www.hlsr.com.