Austin Lonestar Round Up - Lucky No 7

Yes indeed, the Lonestar Round Up has grown so much that it's probably best to say it's officially an acclaimed event, not only getting worldwide recognition, but also worldwide attendance, which has resulted in yet another venue (I believe it's been held at a different location each time I've been, and of course increased participation being the reason for each move). While the quaintness of the first few shows held a certain charm, there's really no arguing against growth for most intents and purposes-at least to a certain extent. And speaking of expanding, it seems the host city itself has seen quite the rise in development over the course of the last couple of years.

Today, South Austin has an almost Melrose Avenue feel to it-which seems to garner mixed feelings from members of the community as well as visitors like myself. A walk up or down South Congress Avenue, the Round Up's main drag for cruising as well as after-hours activities (namely at the unofficial headquarters, The Continental Club), is a bit more involved than it used to be. Along with added watering holes, retail stores, and whatnot, there's much more to attract folk to the area than ever before. Ironically, the same can pretty much be said for the Round Up!