Brad and Brinder Bradberry have served the community in many capacities over the last 29 years they have called the Valley, home. Now, they are being honored as the 2019 Grand Marshalls for the Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo this weekend.

They were notified of this designation by George Koons, president of the Wet Mountain Valley Saddle Club. “We have been members of the Saddle Club for quite a number of years,” Brinder smiled. They often work in the background during events. “We always worked during rodeo weekend, wherever they needed us. Six years ago, they asked us to work the dance, and Brad would guard the money. Three years ago, I was asked to take over the snack bar. I really love the rodeo. It is something that I really enjoy every year.”
The couple will again put in a full weekend volunteering as cashiers and ticket takers and operating the snack bar. Brinder is preparing her specialty hot wings for the event. Anyone that has had Brinder’s cooking knows it is prepared with a southern touch and a whole lot of love.
In their capacity as Grand Marshalls, they will be leading the parade on Saturday morning and ensure rodeo fans are excited about the
fun-filled weekend ahead. The Bradberrys will make their appearances in a horse-led wagon, owned by Enos Yoder. This is always a fan-favorite during parades in the Wet Mountain Valley each year.
“We will then be brought in at the beginning of each rodeo after that,” noted Brinder.
The Bradberrys, originally from Texas, have called the Valley home since 1990. “We moved in up by the Alpine and became members of the “Old West Actors” Association first. Brad was president. They entertained the audience by staging gunfights like those during the riotous and lawless Wild, Wild West. The association participated in Westcliffe’s once celebrated annual Wet Mountain Western Days.
Brad and Brinder spent many years helping the veterans of the valley while serving in their capacities within the American Legion Post 170. Brad served as Commander one year and Brinder was President of the American Legion Auxiliary for seven years.
Their hearts and love of country and community is what makes this honor so fitting.
Congratulations, Brad and Brinder, and thank you for all you do!
For more information on this weekend’s events, see pages
9 and 24 or go to http://www.wmvsc.com/2019-
rodeo-schedule.html