[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 95 (Wednesday, June 30, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1451]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     COMMEMORATING THE PECOS RODEO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY BONILLA

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 30, 1999

  Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent Pecos, Texas, a 
community which hosts the world renowned rodeo every 4th of July week. 
Folks from all across Texas and other states flock to Pecos for this 
annual event.
  In the mid 1800's in cow towns across the state of Texas, a new 
sport, the Rodeo was created. By 1883, a little town in West Texas, 
Pecos, launched the first full fledged rodeo. This annual event occurs 
during the week of our celebration for independence, July 4th.
  Tomorrow, July 1, 1999, the tradition continues as the annual Pecos 
Rodeo begins with several fun filled activities and events. The first 
Pecos rodeo was held near the town courthouse. What used to be the old 
rodeo grounds is now the Pecos Community Center, Civic Auditorium, and 
the Texas Highway Patrol. At one time the audience would use the 
bumpers and hoods of their Model ``T's'' and ``A's'' as position for 
viewing the Rodeo. The national western pastime, marks an era of dust, 
cow hide, and leather popping for the traditional cowboy who utilizes 
his talents and abilities to entertain all citizens of the western 
country.
  The annual event for Pecos was actually the first ``true`` rodeo ever 
held, with full fledged advertising and an array of different prizes 
and contestants. During that time, Pecos was proud to have the most 
saloons in West Texas. As legend tells us, every saloon comes with 
rowdy cowboys. These cowboys would compete in the Pecos rodeo to prove 
their ``excellence`` by competing for the grand prize. The winning 
cowboy would have the ultimate bragging rights.
  However, as time changes, so do the participating cowboys. The 
average cowboys now include college and high school students who 
compete on a regular basis. As the weekend events begin, we must 
remember that even though cowboys and horses are the main attraction 
for the rodeo, the true life and blood of this spectacular event are 
the volunteers and spectators who make this a true success for the 
Pecos community. The rodeo has definitely established extensive 
contributions to the quality of life in Pecos.

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