Cattle drive heading for Edmonton city centre

Busting out of the chute for the first time in six years, River City Roundup is back in the saddle, kicking off Rodeo Week in support of the Canadian Finals Rodeo. "Whether it's the leather on our feet or the food that we ate, it's all related to the agriculture industry," said Bob Steadward, co-chair and original creator of the event. "We want to help the people who are only born and raised and live in the city to understand more about what agriculture is." The 10-day festival will kick off 11 a.m. Saturday with a wild 'n wooly cattle drive, starting from 108 Street east along 102 Avenue toward Winston Churchill Square. Saturday will also showcase farm and military machinery, a barbeque and around 30 Albertan cowboys. "I think it's time that the rural and urban get together to see just what it takes to put food on the table. We value our animals and we are proud of them," said Ed Wedman, rancher and head wrangler. "We are here to show we take good care of our livestock." And Roundup doesn't stop there — various venues and events will last until the final day of CFR on Nov. 14. CFR begins Nov. 10...more