1 THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO MAY 2025 It’s often said, change is inevitable. Although the routine at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo this time of year seldom deviates from a typical pattern, spring 2025 has brought about changes at the FWSSR organization and the Will Rogers Memorial Center. Although summer is still a few weeks away, things are running full steam ahead. Four new staff positions were added during the 2025 Show and the young and energetic individuals are settling into their roles. A new executive vice president was named, and several staff members have assumed new titles. It’s also said that while change is inevitable, growth is optional, and the Stock Show has certainly grown in the last few years with new FWSSR competitions. Entries are currently being accepted for the Youth Art Contest and Jr. Shooting Sports Competition. The High School BBQ, International Wine Competition and Cowboy Artists of America Annual Exhibition and Sale are also scheduled for this fall. After more than three decades of dedicated service in various roles, Brad Barnes stepped down from fulltime employment at the organization’s annual meeting. Elected President Emeritus, Barnes’ retirement paved the way for the Stock Show’s General Manager, Matt Carter, to be elevated to the position of president. Beginning with Burk Burnett, only eight individuals have held the esteemed title. More information on these developments, and much more, can be found inside this newsletter. So, flip through the pages of our May issue of “Whoa!” and be reminded of more reasons why “This thing is legendary.” ANNUAL MEETING BRINGS EXECUTIVE CHANGES TO STOCK SHOW LEADERSHIP STAFF PROMOTIONS & NEW TALENT | PERFECT PARTNERS ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: NOT YOUR NORMAL SPRING
2 3 MAY 2025 NEWSLETTER THE FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO www.fwssr.com STOCK SHOW CALENDAR Save The Date fort worth stock show & rodeo Jan. 16 - Feb. 7, 2026 Competition can’t be more intense than what you’ll see at the FWSSR PRORODEO Tournament. Only the sport’s most elite are invited. But, there’s always an emerging superstar in the shadows that’s about to pop onto the scene. The Stock Show’s qualifier rodeos gives these up-and-comers a shot at FWSSR stardom. Check out these local rodeos near you. You won’t be disappointed. Gladewater Round-Up June 5-7 Parker County Sheriff’s Posse Frontier Days Weatherford June 11-14 Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse PRCA Rodeo Cleburne June 11-14 Wichita Falls PRCA Rodeo August 15-16 North Texas Fair & Rodeo Denton August 15-17 September 8 Rodeo Tickets on Sale FWSSR.COM Dickies Arena Box Office 817.502.0011 September 15 Entries Accepted Livestock, Horse, Poultry, Pigeons, and Rabbits September 27 Youth Art Contest Entry Deadline. Click here to enter October 2 Shoot for Scholarships Fundraiser Learn more here October 3 - 4 Jr. Shooting Sports & Aim For Education Scholarship Competitions 4-H and FFA members shoot for a chance at more than $45,000 in premiums and scholarships. Click here to enter October 17 - 22 International Wine Competition November 7 - 8 FWSSR High School BBQ Regional Competition Teams compete in ribs, brisket, chicken, beans, and dessert divisions. November 7 - 8 Cowboy Artists Of America Exhibition And Sale Guests can purchase outstanding works by renowned western artists. Event also showcases the 2025-2026 FWSSR Youth Art Contest winners. TRADE SHOW VENDOR APPLICATIONS Deadline for the 2026 Trade Show vendor applications is June 1. Click here for more information. VOLUNTEER APPLICATIONS 2026 Stock Show volunteer applications accepted through September 2, 2025. Click here for more information. STAFF PROMOTIONS & NEW TALENT WELCOMING NEW TALENT MCCARTY STEPS INTO NEW FWSSR ROLE We’re excited to welcome four new team members who bring fresh perspectives and support to our departments: Jasie Hatcher joined Cal White as the rodeo assistant providing important support to the rodeo production team in Dickies Arena. Chance Kanode is the new livestock show assistant, supporting Stefan Marchman, Laura Standley, and Melissa Johnson. Erin Catching is the commercial exhibits and special events assistant, working with Ashley Davis to enhance exhibitor and guest experiences. Jacob Brooks joined the staff as the operations assistant, continuing his work with Bruce McCarty, who retired from full-time employment and will remain on as a consultant. Lauren Lovelace Murray has stepped into the role as executive vice president and will play a key role in guiding the future of FWSSR. Her leadership, vision, and deep commitment to FWSSR’S mission will ensure it remains a premier destination for entertaining guests and providing educational opportunities in agriculture. Prior to her promotion, Murray served as horse show director, horse show manager and horse show assistant during her 20 years of dedicated Stock Show service. LAUREN LOVELACE MURRAY PROMOTED TO EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OTHER PROMOTIONS ACROSS THE TEAM: Ashton Dunkel has stepped into a new role in the Horse Department as horse show manager. In the Sponsorship Department, Sonia Benavides is now the sponsorship manager. Ashley Davis’ title has changed to commercial exhibits and special events director. In the Livestock Department, Laura Standley and Melissa Johnson are now livestock show coordinators, supporting the Livestock Show Director Stefan Marchman. Paving the way for Lovelace Murray’s promotion was the retirement of Bruce McCarty. After 30 years of service, McCarty’s new role will provide the continuity necessary to keep the Show moving smoothly. “Bruce’s institutional knowledge is invaluable and we’re fortunate that he’s sticking around to help us remain grounded in our traditions while also helping us incorporate innovative change,” said FWSSR President and General Manager, Matt Carter. FWSSR QUALIFIERS GET INVOLVED UPCOMING EVENTS
4 5 ANNUAL MEETING BRINGS EXECUTIVE CHANGES TO STOCK SHOW LEADERSHIP Executive leadership changes with the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) are few and far between, so when they occur it’s a significant event as was the case April 22 during the organization’s annual business meeting. Completing a two-year transition, Matt Carter was elected to replace Brad Barnes in the role of president of the organization formally known as the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show. Capping off 39 years of service in various roles, Barnes retired from the Stock Show staff and was elected president emeritus. Beginning as a calf scramble committee member in 1986, he gradually found himself appointed to increasingly important roles before joining the fulltime staff as executive vice president in 2004, general manager in 2007 and elected president in 2010. Competitions and entertainment offerings during Barnes’ tenure as president experienced impressive growth. Popular contests including ag robotics, high school bar-b-que, shooting sports and others attracted a broadening base of youth competitors. Music venues including the Michelob Ultra Roadhouse, Auditorium Entertainment Series and The Corkyard drew crowds to enjoy a variety of music genres. Moreover, renovations of the Stock Show’s home, the Will Rogers Memorial Center, were a major focus for Barnes who also played an instrumental role in the planning of the Stock Show’s home for rodeo, Dickies Arena. CARTER ELECTED PRESIDENT Stock Show General Manager Matt Carter was elected to succeed Barnes and now holds the titles of president and general manager, which has been the organization’s tradition since W.R. “Billy Bob” Watt, Sr. began serving in both roles in the 1950s. Carter was quick to commend Barnes’ leadership. “As our president, Brad Barnes always inspired us and stressed that the Stock Show can always be better,” said Carter. “I’m proud to take the torch for continual improvement as we look for new ways to expand the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s impact and to engage a broader audience.” In addition to Barnes’ and Carter’s elections, the organization’s board of directors also elected the following officers to oversee the Stock Show’s affairs in the coming year: Philip C. Williamson, chairman; Edward P. Bass, chairman emeritus; Charlie Geren, vice president; Scott Kleberg, vice president; Elaine Agather, secretary; and Randy Rodgers, treasurer. Carter’s General Manager’s Annual Report highlighted the 2025 Show’s results touching on attendance, entries, auction results (including the record-breaking Jr. Sale of Champions), rodeo and other important matters. He also touched on improvements currently being made to the iconic Will Rogers Coliseum. TOP PHOTO: President Emeritus Brad Barnes speaks at Annual Board Meeting. Wilson C. Martin, Breck Ray and George M. Young, Jr were elected Honorary Vice President. Pictured here is Breck Ray. Left to right: Chad Lee, Kathy Presbaugh, Janet Settle, Stephen Luskey, George H. (Buzz) Grant, and Jason M. Charbonnet were elected to the Stock Show’s board of directors. Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo January 16 - February 7, 2026 www.fwssr.com THE FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO | Annual Meeting
6 7 E.H. Henry, brought his 6-month old grandson, Steven Miller, to his first Stock Show in 1979. In the years that followed a deep bond between them grew as well as a strong desire for volunteerism. “Every year, we would come [to the Stock Show] and the memories have been an important part of my life,” said Miller. “My grandfather was a big influence in my life and it’s a tradition that I will continue. Being on the Greeting Committee, for me, is continuing his memory and legacy.” Growing up Miller attended Como and Ridglea Hills elementary schools before competing in the FWSSR’s Youth Art Contest while attending Western Hills High School. After earning degrees from McMurray University and Texas A&M University, Miller now serves as a project manager with the Chemical Management Team at Lockheed Martin. “I’ve always wanted to be a part of the FWSSR in some capacity but wasn’t sure how to accomplish that,” he said. “I learned about the opportunity through some friends who were on the committee. “The ability to hold on to the Stock Show’s foundational purpose, and blending of tradition and new ideas is what makes it unique. We do a great job of also showcasing the diverse communities and their contributions that make up Fort Worth’s Western heritage. “Helping the exhibitors, contestants and the visitors who come through our gates is my favorite part of serving. We receive constant feedback on the level of hospitality we provide, and that’s what sets us apart. “My favorite Stock Show memory has to be two specific times. One was the first time I rode in the parade. I was excited and nervous at the same time, but it was one of the best days of my life. The other was my first day as a volunteer. Again, I was so excited that I could barely sleep, because I wanted to do a good job. As I started my shift, I took a moment to think about my grandfather and knowing he could see me in that moment. I know he was smiling ear-to-ear.” Having spent considerable time around the Will Rogers Memorial Center as a “horse show mom and daughter,” Tina Chisholm knew her way around when she joined the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo’s Greeting Committee. She took to the role like a duck to water, ferrying rodeo contestants between parking lots and the Coliseum before the days of Dickies Arena. The Arlington native who attended University of North Texas serves as the property manager for her parents’ family business that owns a Sonic Drive In and shopping centers. Her husband, Jeff Chisholm, is the company’s director of construction and their daughter has followed Tina’s parents path in the Arabian horse show world. “The Stock Show is why so many people love Fort Worth,” said Chisholm. “Volunteering makes one feel like they belong to something with an important purpose. I’m part of a family. I’m always kind of sad (and exhausted) when it comes to an end, but there will always be next year.” Chisholm’s volunteer role expanded after the move to Dickies Arena. “When I started helping with Mutton Bustin’, I learned that some kids are very excited, and some are a little – or a lot – apprehensive,” she said. “One evening, this little boy ran over to me, tugged on my jeans, looked up and said with his praying little hands and smile, ‘could you please make sure I get a slooowww sheep?’ Mutton Bustin’ has turned out to be one of the best opportunities I’ve been given. The kids are awesome and seeing their little faces get excited is what brings me back. “The Stock Show makes a huge contribution to our society and is why so many people love Fort Worth. It helps people see Fort Worth in its true fashion. “I feel honored to be part of the FWSSR. I think in 2024 I was there every day or night in some capacity. I get tired, but never tired of being there. It’s my favorite time of the year. I have watched so many people step up and help. It’s all done with a smile and an open heart.” VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
8 9 Michele Hahnfeld and the Marsh McLennan Agency match up well with FWSSR. Since she was a child, Michele Hahnfeld has been on the go. Between family, work, volunteer and civic activities she’s either coming or going in pursuit of her passions. Among her comings and goings, it’s easy to find her at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo every January and February volunteering and representing an important FWSSR partner, the Marsh McLennan Agency. Hahnfeld grew up in nearby Glen Rose, Texas, in the 1970s and 80s. It was a typical rural setting in those days. Michelle and her sister Dana, like many small-town kids, were involved in a plethora of extracurricular activities. “I was super active with sports, UIL, band, cheerleading, 4-H and FHA (Future Homemakers of America),” said Hahnfeld. “We always had weird pets, so we always won the Pet Parade every July fourth. Miniature donkeys, a fawn named Bobo, a raccoon named Charlie and so many hound dogs – usually named Blue or Red, depending on if they were a bluetick or red blood.” That same passion and drive that fueled Hahnfeld’s active lifestyle as a youth continues to keep her constantly on the go today. Besides a busy work schedule – she serves as Vice President / Advisor for Business Insurance at the Marsh McLennan Agency – Hahnfeld remains a very active volunteer not only for the Stock Show but many other Fort Worth non-profit organizations. While projects like Meals on Wheels, Jewel Charity Ball, Lighthouse for the Blind, American Cancer Society and All Saints Episcopal School also keep her hopping, one can sense that her passion and commitment puts FWSSR in a category by itself. “I love all things rodeo and it’s my favorite season, right after fall and football,” she said. “I love it when I see a family enjoying a day at the Stock Show. Mom, dad and all the kids dressed up and walking around, eating corndogs, hopping on tractors, maybe trying out a new mattress, listening to music and loving the rodeo. One of my faves is running into friends who I may only see once a year.” Her history of FWSSR volunteerism goes back to 1999 when she sold the Rodeo Souvenir Annual as a member of the Junior League of Fort Worth. Hahnfeld chaired the rodeo program sales committee for the Junior League later in 2004. She was also eager to step into either a Hoss or Elwood costume in the Moos Brothers earliest days when the FWSSR mascots came on the scene in 2005. Hahnfeld was elected to the Stock Show’s board of directors in 2012 and was appointed to the Shooting Sports committee in 2023. PROFESSIONALISM AND PARTNERSHIPS Highly regarded in Fort Worth’s insurance and risk management circles, the relationships that Hahnfeld has cultivated with firms including The Brants Company, John L. Wortham, Marsh and now Marsh McLennan has brought a tremendous value to the Stock Show. “Marsh McClennan Agency believes the Stock Show is an important tradition in Fort Worth that we want to wholly support,” said Hahnfeld. “The Stock Show allows us to entertain our customers and introduce our Western heritage to our ‘new to Fort Worth’ customers as well.” Since 2010, Marsh McLennan has supported a wide scope of FWSSR programs including Ag Development Fund, Youth Art Contest, Calf Scramble and others. “Michele’s heart for community and never-ending energy are nothing short of inspiring,” said FWSSR Sponsorship Manager, Sonia Benavides. “Her dedication to the FWSSR goes beyond sponsorship; she’s truly part of our family as a dedicated volunteer and advocate for all things Stock Show. Michelle has shown time and again that she doesn’t just support this event – she lives it.” FAMILY THING For many, the Stock Show is a “family thing” and it’s no exception for the Hahnfelds. Her husband, Eric, is a longtime member of the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate and a principal with the architectural firm, Grace Herbert Curtis Architects, that has designed many of the recent renovations and expansions at the Will Rogers Memorial Center. “Getting my daughter, sister and grandkids all involved is fun,” said Hahnfeld. “With Dana (sister) serving on the Greeting and Parade Committees, April (daughter) on the Group Sales Committee and Eric on the Syndicate, it’s a blast showing the grandkids everything we do and how they can, maybe, serve in the future. They’ve helped me decorate tables for the group sales committee from time to time. I want them to know what a privilege it is to be a part of this grand ol’ tradition.” VOLUNTEER MAGNET Being well connected in the Fort Worth business community made Hahnfeld a natural selection to chair the Show’s Group Sales Committee. Committee members sell customized rodeo packages that can include meals, receptions, behind the scenes tours and other unique features. “Since its inception I’ve recruited some of my best girlfriends to join me,” said Hahnfeld. “We’ll decorate for the company events making magic with zero budget and some empty vodka bottles and anything else we can find to make for a special FWSSR evening for our group experiences. “As the tagline says, ‘This thing is legendary,’ The economic impact provided by the Stock Show is astounding. We’ve kept rodeo real – thank you Bob Watt, Brad Barnes and now Matt Carter – and I love that our livestock show brings kids from virtually every county in Texas and makes them feel special whether they’re showing livestock, chickens, a restored tractor or an amazing piece of art.” PERFECT PARTNERS BOTTOM PHOTO: Michele Hahnfeld fourth from the right with members of the group sales commitee including (L to R): Julia Gadberry, Blaire Cantrell, April Hahnfeld, and Virgina Huffman. THE FORT WORTH STOCK SHOW & RODEO | Sponsor Spotlight
10 AND TO MANY MORE SUPPORTERS WHO HELP MAKE THE STOCK SHOW A WORLD-CLASS EVENT. MAJOR SPONSORS A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR OFFICIAL STOCK SHOW PRODUCTS & SERVICES • Western Apparel: Ariat • Beer: Anheuser-Busch • Casino and Resort: Choctaw Casinos & Resorts • Automotive: North Texas Chevy Dealers • Workwear: Dickies® • Satellite and Streaming Video Service: DIRECTV • Mattresses and Massage Chairs: Mattress Firm® • Energy Provider: Reliant • Bank: Simmons Bank • Health System: Texas Health • Whiskey: TX Whiskey • Soft Drink: Pepsi® MEDIA SPONSORS • 95.9 The Ranch / 92.1 Hank FM Grounds Announcements and Music • La Grande 107.5 FM / Puro Tejano Fierro 107.5 HD2 co-presents Best of Mexico Celebración and Dia de la Familia • NBC 5 presents Rodeo Leaderboard • New Country 96.3 • Telemundo 39 co-presents Best of Mexico Celebración, Dia de la Familia and presents Cowboys of Color Rodeo • WBAP 820 AM STOCK SHOW ART CONTEST SPONSORS • The Amon G. Carter Foundation • Debbie and Albon Head • Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP • Ann L. and Carol Green Rhodes Charitable Trust • Marsh McLennan Agency • Whataburger SPECIAL EVENT SPONSORS • AgTrust Farm Credit presents Chuck Wagons, Livestock Appreciation Day Luncheon, Mustang Magic, NTHSRA Scholarship Rodeo and Shooting Sports • American Warrior Asssociation: R3 CrowdSync Light Show experience • Ariat presents Auditorium Entertainment Series, presents Best of the West Ranch Rodeos, Ranching Heritage Weekend and Ariat Alley • Bank of Texas Chuck Wagon Sponsor • Big Tex / Trailers Direct presents Ranch Rodeo Champion Team Trailers • BNSF Railway presents Steer Wrestling • Boot Barn® presents Breakaway Roping • Brumbaugh’s Furniture & Design Ranch Rodeo Awards • Cavender’s Boot City Chuck Wagon Sponsor and Arena Crew Shirts • Central Market presents the Moo-seum Experience and supports Vine 2 Wine “Wine Camps” • Chase presents Barrel Racing • Chicken Express Chuck Wagon Sponsor • Chick-fil-A Rodeo Crowd Engagement Sponsor • Choctaw Casinos & Resorts presents Aerial Rodeo Camera • Dickies® Chuck Wagon Sponsor and Dickies Day • Enterprise Mobility Foundation Scholarship Programs • Frost presents Bareback Bronc Riding and Justin Mutton Bustin’® • Grapevine Powersports UTV provider • H-E-B presents Junior Sale of Champions, supporting sponsor of The Milking Parlor, School Tours and High School BBQ Competition • Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services presents Pony Up! 50/50 Raffle and supporting sponsor of Junior Sale of Champions • Hillwood, A Perot Company presents Military Appreciation Day • HOLT CAT presents PRORODEO Tournament Opening Night, Tower Promenade and Scholarship Programs • Junior Agricultural Mechanics Project Show and Texas M.A.D.E. Sponsors: Andes Coil Processors, Big Tex, Harris Products Group, HOLT CAT, Lincoln Electric, Norfolk Iron & Metal, Miller/Hobart, ONEOK, Panther City Industrial Supply, Priefert, RDO Equipment Co., , Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, Saint-Gobain, and United Ag & Turf. • Junior Ag Robotics Challenge: Lockheed Martin Corporation, Meta and Texas Capital Bank • Justin Brands, Inc. presents Scramble Fore Scholarships, Justin Sportsmedicine Team and co-presents Justin Mutton Bustin’® and Calf Scramble • Kendra Scott presents Timed Event Challenge Barrel Races • Levi’s presents Timed Event Challenge Roping Events • Los Pastores Restaurant Bakery and Meat Market co-presents the Charro Cala Escaramuza and Mariachi Competitions • Mattress Firm® presents Bull Riding, Rodeo Replay and Petting Zoo • Michelob Ultra® Roadhouse and Busch Light® Chuck Wagon Sponsor • National Farm Life Insurance presents Poultry, Pigeon and Rabbit shows • North Texas Tollway Authority presents TollTag Tuesdays • Standard Meat presents High School BBQ Competition • Sundance Square presents Contestant interviews and Rodeo Countdown • Tarleton State University Dairy Cattle Judging Contest Buckles, Lunch and Dinner Sponsor • Oncor presents Mobile Jumbotron • PlainsCapital Bank presents PBR Last Cowboy Standing • R. Watson Boots presents Tie-Down Roping • Texas Department of Agriculture presents GO TEXAN Market • Texas Farm Bureau Insurance® sponsors Doorways to Agriculture produced by Texas Farm Bureau® • Texas Health Chuck Wagon Sponsor • Texas Hot Tub Company supports International Wine, Shooting Sports and High School BBQ Competition • Texas Mutual Insurance Co. co-presents Calf Scramble • TX Whiskey presents Saddle Bronc Riding • UMB Bank presents Team Roping and Heifer Superintendent’s Beef Challenge • Visit Fort Worth presents Music Experience and Sunday FUNday • Wild Fork presents Bubbles & Bites • Zimmerer Kubota and Equipment presenting sponsor Rodeo Tractor Drag
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