Clovis Rodeo Bling: Yee-Haws and Ca-Ching! | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Fresno, CA A positive financial trend has already started at this weekend's big event.

Last year the rodeo raked in about $6 million. Naturally many local business owners hope to get a piece of that rodeo pie.

"My wife indulges me. She lets me be a cowboy for three days then go home," laughed Terry Gaines.

Gaines and his wife Linda, from Valencia, know a good deal when they see one. That's why they are in Clovis for the 95th annual rodeo.

Gaines: "This is a great value. Great family fun and getting away just a few hours from the house it's a great decision."

Nearby hotels count on visitors like the Gaines's. Most are full for rodeo weekend. That is good news for the Fairfield Inn and Suites which opened in January.

"People are slowly learning about us so we still have a few rooms to sell. But I'm thinking next year that won't be the case; we'll be sold out," said hotel manager Keith Smith.

Brent Walton's restaurant QN4U has only been open one year.

This time around he's catering and delivering award winning bar-b-que to the rodeo grounds and already reaping the benefits from his services.

"We've gained a little following with these out of towners. Cowboys like Bar-B-Q. It goes with rodeo," said Walton.

Where there is food and fun there is most always beverages. This local watering hole is stocking up with liquid refreshment for business.

"It boosts the economy and we've had record sales. It's been busy," said Frank Mazzey with Kimmie's Bar.

Even the hair and nail salon next door is experiencing a small financial boost.

"So we've had some cowboys come through that have needed some hair cuts," said salon owner Terri Marquez.

Clovis's economic group said high gas prices kept rodeo fans away last year.

They hope, with lower gas prices this year, more people will make this rodeo their top destination.