Rodeos holding tight during economic recession

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) -- As they ride out the economic recession, some American rodeos are bucking the hard times while others are sitting on the fence.

Rodeo officials across the country say they've been planning for potential slowdowns this year by tightening their budgets, scrambling to replace lost sponsors and crafting cheap ticket packages to draw in crowds.

The work has paid off at several events, which have seen increased attendance.  In Cheyenne, Frontier Days is in full swing after getting started last week.

General Chairman Charlie West says advance ticket sales were good, and Saturday night's George Straight concert was sold out.

Other events haven't fared as well.

Rodeos in Wichita Falls, Texas; Greenville, Texas; Idaho Falls, Idaho, and San Francisco were canceled this year for economic reasons.