Cowboys are coming to Salem!

Yes, real cowboys.

Members of the International Professional Rodeo and the Southern Rodeo Associations will be coming to Salem from all over the East Coast to start collecting points for 2008.

The Stampede Championship Rodeo, a local family favorite since 1968, features cowboys -- and cowgirls -- competing, performing and entertaining.

Expect two to three hours of calf roping, steer wrestling, bareback riding, saddle riding and, of course, the ever popular bull riding. And you can't forget the rodeo clowns.

Carey Harveycutter, director of civic facilities, said the most popular event is bull riding. Most participants stay on the bull for only about eight seconds, but he says it is the most dangerous eight seconds they will experience.

Don't worry; the show isn't dangerous for audience members. But you will get an up-close-and-personal experience. The front row is within about eight feet of the arena.

And for those of you who remember the Borat "Star Spangled Banner" incident of 2005, there's nothing to worry about this year. Borat has recently retired.

-- Jennie Tal

Who: Members of Professional Rodeo Associations

What: The Kroger/Valleydale Stampede Championship Rodeo

Where: Salem Civic Center

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday.

Cost: $18.50, Bull Circle Seating; $15, reserved seating.