We always knew the rodeo folks were a party-loving bunch, even with the serious philanthropic side of their activities. But the recent Trailblazer Awards Luncheon proved without a doubt that these ladies and gents know a thing or two about kicking up the heels of their cowboy boots.
More than 1,160 members of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo leadership, rodeo committee members and social swells turned out at the Bayou City Event Center for a midday bash that included a rocking after-party. Several hundred lingered on site until dark with Tony's catering arm keeping them sated with everything from sliders to duck spring rolls and chips and guacamole.
The luncheon honored five women who have distinguished themselves with their rodeo leadership.
The luncheon honored five women who have distinguished themselves with their rodeo leadership.Taking bows for their commitment to the annual scholarship-generating rodeo were Jill Watson, Cyndy Garza Roberts, Donna Webster, Linda Sue Barnes and Kay Stevens, recipient of the highest honor — the Pearl Award.
The razzle-dazzle luncheon, delish food by Tony's, included a Trailblazer Marketplace where 16 vendors proffered their rodeo-inspired wares, a Saks Fifth Avenue fashion show produced by Lenny Matuszewski and that after-party. Typically reserved for nighttime events, the after-party theme caught on with the rodeo crowd many of whom stayed to play in the party tent, dressed like a chic lounge. Linda McIngvale's A Memorable Event created the tent scene and decorated the events center to a midday hilt.
Heading the luncheon committee were chair Gretchen Gilliam and vice chair Shelly Brock.
Joining the salute to the ladies were HLSR chairman Jack Lyons and wife Nina, Paula and Butch Robinson, Marybeth Burgess, George Lane, Barbara and Don Jordan, Ed McMahon, Anne and Chris Richardson, Maria Bush, Susan Plank, H-E-B's Scott McClelland, Saks Fifth Avenue GM Bobby Dees and Susan Plank.
Lea Bodie, left, and Robin Johnson.
