[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 63 (Tuesday, April 8, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E301]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





 HONORING BRAD BARNES' RETIREMENT AS PRESIDENT OF THE FORT WORTH STOCK 
                             SHOW AND RODEO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 8, 2025

  Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Brad 
Barnes in his retirement from serving as President of the Stock Show 
and Rodeo in Fort Worth, Texas. The Stock Show and Rodeo is the city's 
oldest and largest annual event, gathering millions of visitors every 
year. Showcasing both professional rodeo athletes and thousands of kids 
from across Texas, this event continues to reflect Fort Worth's rich 
cultural heritage.
  In his many years with the Stock Show and Rodeo, Mr. Barnes 
volunteered before becoming a full-time employee in 2004. During this 
time, the rodeo moved from the historic Will Rogers Coliseum to Dickies 
Arena. Payout winnings for contestants grew to 1.5 million dollars and 
expanded the attendance rate exponentially. Always looking ahead, he 
has prepared the initiative to renovate the Will Rogers Coliseum in 
pursuit of preserving its historical significance to Fort Worth.
  Since 1985, premiums, scholarships, and grants for Texas youth have 
accumulated over 100 million dollars. Under the leadership of Mr. 
Barnes, the 2025 Junior Sale of Champions alone raised more than 10 
million dollars. The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo represents the 
cultural heart of Fort Worth, starting from the early days on the 
Chisholm Trail driving cattle to now being a symbol of where ``The West 
Begins.'' Mr. Barnes has worked tirelessly to preserve Fort Worth's 
connection to its origin, believing that without it, it will just be 
another city on the list of many in Texas.
  On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, it is an honor 
to recognize Mr. Brad Barnes's humble commitment to the Fort Worth 
community. I wish the best to him and his family as they celebrate his 
retirement and continue to be committed members of the community.

                          ____________________