3 ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING USHERS IN NEW STOCK SHOW LEADERSHIP From left: General Manager Matt Carter, Vice President Scott Kleberg, President Brad Barnes, Secretary Elaine Agather, Chairman Emeritus Ed Bass, Chairman Philip Williamson, Vice President Charlie Geren, Treasurer Randy Rodgers It was only the sixth time in Stock Show history. The election of a new Chairman of the Board occurred on April 23 when the board of directors of the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show elected Philip C. Williamson to the esteemed position. Clearing the way for the move was election of Edward P. Bass to Chairman Emeritus. Bass served as the organization’s chairman for 23 years during one of the most exciting and productive periods in the Stock Show’s history. Serving in important roles alongside John Justin, W.R. “Bob”Watt, Jr. and others, he helped in the creation of the Will Rogers Equestrian Center in 1988 anchored by both the Richardson-Bass Building and Burnett Building. The dedication of the Moncrief Building for the Stock Show’s centennial in 1996 was another major boost and served as a prelude for a dream and accomplishment that has not only generated tremendous excitement for the Stock Show but graced Fort Worth with one of the most celebrated public events venues in the United States – Dickies Arena. The dream became reality because of Ed Bass’ passion, work ethic, dedication and commitment that gave Fort Worth its highly acclaimed and recognized multipurpose entertainment facility appropriately located in its popular Cultural District. When asked about his newly elected role and responsibilities, Bass replied, “I’m not going away; I’m merely advancing to a more prestigious position: Chairman Emeritus.” Bass will continue to serve as a member of the Stock Show’s board of directors and executive committee. WILLIAMSON ASSUMES CHAIRMANSHIP ROLE Philip Williamson’s roots run deep in the City Where the West Begins and the Stock Show. He was the fourth generation of Fort Worth’s Williamson family to lead the quintessential workwear company, Williamson-Dickie Mfg. Co. serving as Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer from 1997 to 2017 when the privately held company sold to VF Corporation. With a devotion and affinity for the Stock Show that began early in life, Williamson stepped into leadership roles when he joined the organization’s board of directors in 2000 and was named to the executive committee in 2013. Like Bass, Williamson took on important roles in helping ensure the dream that was to become Dickies Arena became a reality. But, his family’s connections go back to 1944 when the Stock Show’s rodeo moved to the Will Rogers Coliseum. “My grandfather, C. Don Williamson, wanted a rodeo box when the Stock Show moved from the Northside Coliseum,” said Williamson. “He was fortunate enough to secure the box immediately above bucking chutes 1, 2 and 3. My childhood was filled with Stock Show fun. Often, it’s the little things that bring the fondest memories and, kids being kids, my siblings, friends and I would discreetly toss an occasional popcorn kernel onto the hats of the cowboys below us to see how long they could stay before falling to the ground behind the chutes. Of course, there were all the other fun things I experienced that came along with growing up in the Will Rogers Coliseum.” It wouldn’t be long before Williamson began taking on a more serious Stock Show role. [continued on page 4]
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