Published: June 17, 2009 04:11 pm      

Ride that horsey

Luchsinger to perform before opening night of rodeo

The 55th annual Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse PRCA rodeo begins tonight, but before the cowboys enter the arena, guests will enjoy a country and gospel concert at the Posse grounds in Cleburne.

Susie Luchsinger, country gospel singer, will perform for the annual God and Country Night at the rodeo.

“She’s been there every year but one for God and Country Night,” said Mack McClister, God and Country Night chairperson.

Luchsinger has received numerous awards and nominations from TNN, GMA and CCMA. She has also been named “Artist of the Year” several times in the field of Positive Country Music.

“My family has been in the ranching/rodeo world for four generations, and I am so pleased to be able to bring Jesus Christ to this audience in a down to earth, country style,” Luchsinger said on her Web site. ”Looking back now, with 20/20 vision, I can clearly see God’s hand of guidance through all of the difficult moments in my life.

“By sharing my story, I hope it will help someone else find their way through whatever they may be facing. I can think of no greater purpose for my music than that.”

Shepherd’s Valley Cowboy Church in Egan sponsors Luchsinger’s performance, which begins at 7 p.m.

“The Cowboy Church and Russ Weaver are really the ones sponsoring her, and it’s great to have her,” McClister said.

Tickets are available at local churches and Shepherd’s Valley Cowboy Church before the event for $6 and at the gate for $8. The tickets will also allow admittance into the rodeo.



Rodeo performances

Thursday night is military appreciation night, and all current and retired military will be granted free admittance with a military ID.

Friday night is “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” night, sponsored by Dodge and the PRCA.

The grand finale is Saturday night. Rodeo winners and the rodeo queen will be crowned that night.

General admission tickets can be purchased at the gate for $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 4-12. Children 3 and under are free. Parking is free.

Rodeo performances begin at 8 p.m. nightly.

For information about the rodeo, call David Johnson at 817-517-9461 or David Welty at 817-907-9256 or visit www.sheriffsposse.com.