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INSIDE THE ARENA
6 Johnson County
BABY!
18 CODY& BRODY w e b s t e r
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WEST HUGGINS
26 Ronald Burton
s m i t h
Contributing photographers: Imagehounds™. Some footage provided by Hannah Crandall
Dear Readers, We are thrilled to present our latest issue, showcasing the vibrant essence of the Johnson County Sheriff Posse PRCA Rodeo in Cleburne, Texas. While this rodeo may be modest in scale compared to its national counterparts, its significance to the community cannot be overstated. For the residents of Cleburne, this rodeo is not just an event; it’s a cherished tradition and the hottest ticket in town. The unwavering support from Johnson County residents was truly inspiring. The stands were overflowing with enthusiastic fans, creating an electric atmosphere. Professional bullfighter Brody Smith said it best, “We pack those stands, and it feels like they’re right on top of you. There just isn’t anything better than Cleburne, Texas on a Saturday night; that’s for sure.” The passion and fervor displayed by the fans made the rodeo an unforgettable experience.
This issue of Johnson County Pictorial is a visual feast, featuring captivating action photographs by Imagehounds™, the official rodeo photographers. These stunning images bring to life the heartpounding moments of horsemanship, daring bull riding, and lightningfast barrel racing. Prepare to be enthralled by the skill, courage, and determination of the rodeo competitors. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the JCSPR committee for allowing us to participate and support this incredible rodeo. Our “Fan of the Night” buckle, presented by rodeo entertainer Ronald Burton, was the highlight of the event, celebrating the fervent devotion of the rodeo fans.
We are immensely grateful for your continued support as we promote and preserve the heritage of rodeo. Join us in spreading the word about our digital magazine, sharing the mesmerizing moments captured within these pages, and following our journey as we perpetuate the legacy of rodeo. Thank you for being a part of our mission. Rodeo is the word. Help spread the word.
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LILLIAN LANDRETH
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HANNAH CRANDALL
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DAVID WELTY - Captain of the Johnson County Sheriff Posse The-Arena-Press.com
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Johnson County
BABY! The Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo is an annual rodeo that celebrates the traditions of the Old West and promotes good will among horsemen and other area citizens. The rodeo has a long and proud history that dates back to October 8, 1951, when a group of men gathered at the Cleburne Livestock Auction Barn to form the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse. The organization’s founding members included Claton Holland, Earl King, Richard White, Ray Porter, Roy Burton, R.B. Gillis, E.E. Wheeler, Bill White, and H.H. Johnson.
The Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo took place June 7-10, 2023, and is the best way to kick off the summer season. The rodeo has a saying, “Johnson County Baby,” that captures the spirit and enthusiasm of the event. It’s an opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate the rich heritage of the Old West. Over the years, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse has grown from its humble beginnings to become one of the premier rodeos in the area. The rodeo has a proud tradition of promoting western stock horses, preserving the traditions of the Old West, and promoting good will among horsemen and other area citizens.
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CAPTURING YOUR MOMENTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT!
2023 JCSPR
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WEST HUGGINS By Hannah Crandall
To be a rodeo announcer, you have to possess a voice that captures and keeps the attention of a crowd and engages very diverse groups, all while not being seen. Knowledge of the sport, passion and excitement, a trustworthy sound and the ability to take control of a variety of situations are all necessary to be considered great behind the mic. West Huggins is great behind the mic; and he’s been guiding fans through the experience of watching a rodeo for more than 20 years. His first Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) rodeo to announce was the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo in Cleburne, Texas over a decade ago, and he’s still taking over that loud and excitement-filled arena, along with other responsibilities, today. “My involvement with this rodeo is not only the announcer, but I’m also the production manager with Kit Woody, the lieutenant, and David Welty, the captain,” Huggins explained. “So, I’m part of the production team, and my marketing company, Rockin H Marketing, helps with marketing and advertising for the rodeo. We just have a lot of involvement actually. We kind of feel like we’re citizens of Johnson County, even though we live in Midland.”
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Chosen as UPRA Announcer of the Year eight times, Huggins has also worked the CINCH United Finals Rodeo eight times; and he became a PRCA member in 2006. Huggins’ family, his wife (Keri) and two sons, travel and work with him regularly, and his wife has even been selected to work the CINCH United Finals Rodeo multiple times and holds a PRCA card as a secretary.
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Huggins has been passionate about rodeo and announcing rodeos since he was just a child, but his career has grown into an exceptional success story since then. However, despite all the success found and the opportunities to travel to and announce rodeos across the country, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo will always hold a special place in his heart; and Huggins sees significant opportunity for growth.
“When you announce a long-standing rodeo, it means a
lot; because that means they’ve heard other announcers and seen everything they can see, so when they keep you, you feel like you’ve really done something,”
Huggins said. “For so many years, I think the Johnson County area has never realized the history on these grounds. Now that we are revamping to make it younger and more entertaining, it’s time to bring the new generation in on the history here. That’s the most important part now is I have a goal of trying to mix the young crowd with the older crowd to continue the longevity of this rodeo.”
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CODY& BRODY w e b s t e r s m i t h
By Hannah Crandall
The dynamic duo of the JCSP rodeo: bullfighters, Cody & Brody. And these heroes at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo not only put their lives on the line to protect the athletes in the arena, but they also put on a great show and do whatever is needed behind the scenes. 18
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VISIT
To learn more about Webster’s accomplishments and bull schools, visit https://www.codywebsterbullfighting.com/. You can also follow him on Instagram or Facebook to keep up with his career.
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WEBSTER
The Legendary Bullfighter Protecting Cowboys and Inspiring Generations
With an exceptional resume boasting titles like Three-time PRCA Bullfighter of the Year, 10-time PRCA Bullfighter of the Year nominee, and 10-time participant in the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) and PBR World Finals, Cody Webster has solidified his place as one of the best bullfighters in the world. Growing up in Wayne, Oklahoma, Webster’s passion for bullfighting ignited at a young age. From fighting bulls at his grandpa’s place at the age of 10 to becoming the youngest bullfighter ever to grace the Thomas & Mack arena at the NFR, his dedication and talent have propelled him to the top.
Webster’s journey takes him to the most prestigious rodeos worldwide, including the PBR World Finals, the NFR, Cheyenne Frontier Days, and the Reno Rodeo. Alongside his rodeo career, he is committed to ranching, raising his own fighting bulls, and mentoring the next generation of bullfighters. For Webster, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo in Cleburne, TX holds a special significance. It was the first professional rodeo he fought at after earning his PRCA card, and he returns year after year for the thrilling atmosphere and warm hospitality.
Join Cody Webster at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo and experience the excitement and skill of rodeo firsthand. Witness the fearless bullfighter in action, protecting cowboys and taming powerful animals. Celebrate the legacy of rodeo with Cody Webster, a true icon in the arena and a devoted mentor to aspiring bullfighters.
SMITH
Rising Star Bullfighter Protecting Cowboys and Building Bridges
Inheriting a love for rodeo from his family, Brody Smith has found his calling as a professional bullfighter. Surrounded by the sport since childhood, with a father who fought bulls for over 20 years, an uncle in bucking bull breeding, and a step-father who rode bulls, Smith has become an integral part of the rodeo world, traveling across the country to ensure the safety of cowboys. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo in Cleburne, Texas holds a special place in Smith’s heart. It was there that he fought his third pro rodeo, and the electric atmosphere and packed stands left an indelible impression on him. Recently crowned the United Professional Rodeo Association’s Bullfighter of the Year in 2022, Smith has been making waves in the industry. From Indiana to Texas, Missouri to Las Vegas, he is building strong relationships with rodeo’s biggest names and rapidly ascending the ladder. Smith’s ultimate goal is to compete at the prestigious National Finals Rodeo (NFR) at least three times. Follow him on Instagram or Facebook to keep up with his exciting journey as he takes on wellknown rodeos and Professional Bull Riders (PBR) events. Witness the rise of Brody Smith, the rising star bullfighter who is leaving his mark on the rodeo world.
#Brody_Smith12
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“We pack those stands, and it feels like they’re just right there on top of you. There just isn’t anything better than Cleburne, Texas on a Saturday night; that’s for sure.”
]
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Ronald Burton THE MAN IN THE CAN
By Hannah Crandall
A man who’s worked the inside of rodeo arenas across the country bringing laughter and entertainment to those sitting in the stands for more than 20 years, Ronald Burton. Burton’s long list of achievements is proof of his familyfriendly humor, hard work and professionalism. 12-time Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) Contract Act of the Year and 2020 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) RAM Great Lakes Circuit Finals Barrel Man, Burton has also made appearances on national television including ABC’s Extreme Home Makeover Home Edition, Discovery Channel’s Battleground Earth and a Coca-Cola advertisement for the Fort Worth Stockyards. His own documentary, Man in the Can, details what it takes to be a professional rodeo entertainer. From Philadelphia, Mississippi, he began working the Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo nearly 15 years ago as a bullfighter; and he came back as the barrel man and entertainer in 2022. “I was originally a bull rider for about six years before I became a bullfighter,” Burton said. “I was always the class clown in school and then loved the comedy aspect of working the arena; so eventually, when it was time to stop fighting bulls, it was just an easy transition. My favorite thing about Johnson County is by far the people: the people who put it on and the fans that pack the stands.” To keep up with Burton’s schedule and his outstanding career in the rodeo arena, visit https://ronaldburton.net/!
2023 JCSPR
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HIGHLIGHT
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William Tutor
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Will Lummus
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Shea Fournier
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Hagen Houck
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Mary Beth Beam
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WHERE WHERE
RODEO THE ROAD
MEETS MEETS
CLICK TO LISTEN
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In this captivating episode of ‘Where Rodeo Meets the Road,’ join hosts Ken and Hannah as they sit down with A.D. Hatton, the visionary behind Cowboy World. Get ready to be inspired as A.D. unveils the mission and shares his riveting rodeo stories that have shaped the heart and soul of Cowboy World. Discover the extraordinary individuals he’s encountered along the way and gain a deeper understanding of the remarkable world of rodeo. As Ken and Hannah also provide their insights on the thrilling Reno Rodeo, Pecos, Prescott, and the legendary Rocker Steiner, this episode is an absolute must-listen for all rodeo enthusiasts. The-Arena-Press.com
“Where Rodeo meets the Road” is property of The Arena Press. ©2023 All RIghts Reserved.
PODCAST
FAN OF THE
NIGHT
The prestigious “Fan of the Night” award, presented by The Arena Press, heightened the anticipation at each performance, acknowledging the most enthusiastic rodeo fan of the evening. As announcer West Huggins and arena entertainer Ronald Burton playfully engaged the crowd, excitement filled the air. The audience eagerly vied for Ronald’s attention, hoping to catch his eye for the coveted recognition. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, including the spirited fans who made the rodeo an incredibly enjoyable experience. Until next year, we bid you farewell.
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Kaleb Driggers & Junior Nogueira
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Jimmie Tew Smith
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Patterson Starcher
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2023 Queen Harleigh Thiel
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