CREATED TO HELP THE FAMILY FARMER & RANCHER AFTER THE RAVAGES OF MOTHER NATURE      

$10 and more

Corporate and private donations

to this worthy cause are

actively sought.

If you find it in your heart

to join the effort

please call:

406-442-3420

don (at) silentherder.com

tjcasey (at) tjcasey_dot_net

or write:

Giving Back Foundation

% Montana Stockgrowers Assn.

420 North California St

Helena, Montana 59601

This is a nationwide effort to

help the ranchers and farmers

who have been affected by

the ravages of Mother Nature.

Apex Advisory Services

______________________________

TJ Casey - President

Don Siefert - Vice President

Dwite Johnson - Secretary/Treasurer

Board Members:

Mike Wendlandt

Jim Lee

Tammy Ward

GBF contributes to Wyoming family struck by tornado
 
 Helena - The Giving Back Foundation (GBF), a Montana-based non-profit entity dedicated to helping ranchers and farmers nationwide whose lives and finances have been adversely affected by natural disasters, has donated $500 to Duane and Alice Queen of Aladdin, Wyoming who recently lost their home, barn and outbuildings to a tornado.
 
 “We just hope this money will help the Queens cover some of their everyday expenses as they decide where to go from here,” said TJ Casey, president of the GBF.
 
 For more information about GBF or how you can help, please visit www.ranchersandfarmers.org, or call the Montana Stockgrowers Association at (406) 442-3420.

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GBF contributes to relief for Texas ranchers devastated by wildfires - 2009

Helena - The Giving Back Foundation (GBF), a Montana-based non-profit entity dedicated to helping ranchers and farmers nationwide whose lives and finances have been adversely affected by natural disasters, has donated $1,500 to the North Texas Cattlemen’s Relief Fund. The fund was established by the Chisholm Trail Resource Conservation & Development, Inc. and the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association to aid cattlemen who lost livestock, feed, equipment and fencing during recent wildfires in several Texas counties.

The Giving Back Foundation hopes these funds will help ranchers keep operating under these difficult conditions. For more information about GBF or how you can help, please visit www.ranchersandfarmers.org, or call the Montana Stockgrowers Association at (406) 442-3420.

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GBF contributes to relief for North Dakota ranchers devastated by flooding - 2009

Helena – The Giving Back Foundation (GBF), a Montana based non profit entity dedicated to helping ranchers and farmers nationwide whose lives and finances have been adversely affected by natural disasters, has pledged $1,500 to help farmers and ranchers devastated by catastrophic flooding and blizzards in North Dakota. GBF will contribute to a fund set up by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation (NCF), in cooperation with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA).

Family farm and ranch operations across North Dakota have been devastated by flooding caused by spring blizzards and near record snowfall. Many families have been completely displaced from their
homes. Some remain without power, potable water, and other utilities. Livestock losses are estimated to be nearing 100,000 head. Spring planting has already been delayed, which could lead to a shorter growing season, decreased yields and disease. Downed fences and other property damage have also added to the battle with Mother Nature, as hundreds of farmers and ranchers struggle to make repairs while keeping their operations functional.

The Giving Back Foundation is glad to help its neighbors in North Dakota as they work to keep their farms and ranches operating under these difficult conditions. For more information about GBF or how you can help, please visit www.ranchersandfarmers.org, or call the Montana Stockgrowers Association at (406) 442-3420.

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RAVAGED RANCHERS HELPED BY NONPROFIT “GBF” - 2009

Temperatures along the Milk River near Malta, Montana hovered close to 30 below zero on December 20th, 2008. Rancher Todd Young had undergone double knee surgery the day before and was on his way home, unaware of conditions at the ranch.

Todd and Sonia’s oldest son Laremy was home, planning to move their cattle to a different pasture. In view of nature’s fury, though, he made the wise decision that he and his friend should not even try fighting the blizzard, driven by 30-mile-per-hour winds. He was hoping the next day would be better.

As night fell and the storm wore on, the Young family’s herd of black-cross cows and calves drifted before those bitter winds, seeking shelter. They finally found it, under a bluff. Unfortunately, that high ground which broke the wind and caused the cattle to bunch and gather was the upper bank of the Milk River . . . the cattle were moving onto snow-covered ice!

When the boys found the herd the next morning, after more than an hour’s ride in 50-below-zero chill factors, the ice had given way. A lot of cattle were in the river. Many were floundering, fighting to escape. Some 27 head lay dead, with many more coated in ice from having been submerged in the icy water.

Riding for help as quickly as possible, the boys recruited kind neighbors and family members to help. Together, they managed to rescue more of the cows and calves. Many were so weakened and disoriented they plunged back into the icy water after being dragged out. Eventually, riders were able to trail most of the survivors to a neighbor’s feedlot, where they were bedded in straw, with hopes of saving their lives.

When the storm settled and a final count could be made, the Young family realized 39 cows and 35 calves were missing . . . undoubtedly victims of the icy Milk River. Other livestock involved in the tragedy were severely impacted . . . nobody knows how many pregnant cows aborted as a result.

Todd and his wife Sonia and their sons, along with Todd’s mother Agnes, were not only devastated because of the suffering and loss of life to their livestock; they were broadsided with the financial ramifications. Those calves represented expected cash flow at weaning time. Those cows represented business inventory, the basis for cash flow for years to come.

Christmas 2008 for the Young’s, whose family has ranched along the Milk River for more than seven decades, would never be forgotten . . . and they winced to face 2009 after such a loss.

You can perhaps imagine the surprise and pleasure of Sonia and Todd when they received an invitation from something called the “Giving Back Foundation” to attend a social event in Billings, Montana on February 7th, 2009. The message said their meals and room for the night were paid; and further informed them they’d be presented with a check to help out in their recent livestock loss!

The February event was actually a fundraiser for the Giving Back Foundation (GBF), a nonprofit entity founded on one of the ancient principles and unwritten rules of the agrarian lifestyle – “helping one another”, or “taking care of your own”. Knowing all too well the whipping many ranchers and farmers take from natural disasters annually, a few years ago T.J. Casey came up with the idea to offer at least a flicker of hope to devastated ranchers and farmers across the US and Canada. They were joined by others with a heart to help, and GBF has continued to grow. The foundation has been able to help rural families through many tragedies, from blizzards to wildfires, in several states.

The recent fundraiser, which was the Young family’s introduction to the generous kindness of GBF, brought in another $4,000 for Foundation use, along with more ideas and inspiration for future growth.

One ongoing GBF project is the cowboy CD, and a new one has just been released. The original two-set compact disc was released for sale in 2006, featuring 25 selections by western singer/songwriters, musicians and cowboy poets who unhesitatingly donated their art, time and effort to the Foundation.

That set is still available, and the new CD, GIVING BACK #2, Building Memories by Preserving our Heritage has just been released. These 24 entertaining, inspirational and varied selections of cowboy music and poetry are by such acclaimed artists as Barry Ward, RJ Vandygriff, Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns, Sisters of the Silver Sage, Ringling 5, Jay Snider, Jim Reader, Jean Prescott, Sandy Seaton, Palo Duro, Joseph FireCrow, and Waddie Mitchell on CD 1. CD 2 features Don Edwards, Open Range, Doris Daley, Dan Miller, Juni Fisher, Dennis Gaines, Joni Harms, Slim McNaught, Jack Gladstone, Michael Hurwitz, R.W. Hampton and TJ Casey.

You can order CD’s, and learn more about the activities of the Giving Back Foundation, by visiting their website, www.ranchersandfarmers.org. Corporate and private donations to this worthy cause are actively sought, and to donate or buy CD’s you can call (406) 442-3420 or write Giving Back Foundation c/o Montana Stockgrowers Association, 420 North California Street, Helena, Montana 59601.

Remember, GBF is a viable, action-based Foundation that offers concrete help to your neighbors when natural tragedies strike. Join the effort, extend a hand to ranchers and farmers, who have been the backbone of this region and America as a whole for more than a century, providing food, clothing and other necessities of life. As TJ Casey puts it, “We appreciate their hard work and what they provide for us, so we should let them know.”

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FANTASTIC FEBRUARY FUNDRAISER - 2009

The Holiday Inn Grand in Billings, Montana will be the site of a black tie blue jean customer appreciation for Apex Advisory Services and a benefit fundraiser for the Giving Back Foundation on February 7, 2009. Doors will open at 5 pm, with a prime rib buffet served at 6 pm and a live auction and entertainment beginning around 7:30 pm.

The Giving Back Foundation (GBF) is a Montana-based non-profit entity pledged to help ranchers and farmers nationwide whose lives and finances have been adversely impacted by natural disasters. “Ranchers and farmers have been the backbone of America by providing our food, clothing, and other necessities, and it’s time to give something back,” says T.J. Casey of Billings, Montana, co-founder and President of the GBF. “They’ve faced drought, fire, flash floods, tornadoes, blizzards and hail; and there is nothing more devastating to a rancher or farmer than to suffer loss of fields, pasture, livestock, grain, fence or winter feed.”

GBF has been active since December 2006 to alleviate some of those losses – from the Colorado blizzards to the Sweetgrass Creek wildfires, as well as through scholarships for farm and ranch freshmen going into agricultural education. Realizing that ranchers and farmers who have endured several years of drought, grass fires, flooding in some areas, and other natural disasters find their savings depleted and no money available when their kids graduate from high school and want to go to college, the Giving Back Foundation has extended those scholarships to the University of Idaho, Washington State University, and Montana State University.

APEX Advisory Services, Inc., a State of Montana Registered Investment Advisory Firm was started in 1996 and specializes in a Disciplined Wealth Management Process to assist clients in the creation and preservation of wealth. As a firm, they primarily work with farmers and ranchers, business owners and individuals in their wealth and estate planning needs. The advisors of APEX Advisory Services, Inc. focus on the use of investments which do not have up-front sales charges and an institutional contract with Charles Schwab & Company, Inc. was established in 1996. Adhering to a Comprehensive Tactical Allocation Strategy, client assets are allocated to real estate, equities, bonds and cash depending on the objectives of the client and the current market environment. APEX Advisory Services, Inc. President and Founder, Michael G. Wendlandt, is also licensed as a Registered Representative of Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., a New York based Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA and SIPC.

As an extension of his support of the GBF, Michael is providing this opportunity to combine their annual fundraiser with APEX’s annual customer appreciation function. The evening, inclusive, is available to adults for $75, couples for $100, kids for $25, and corporate tables for $900. Tickets are limited – get yours now by phoning (406) 867-2739.

The live and silent auctions to benefit GBF will include everything from hats to tire services. Donors already on board include Northern Broadcasting Network, Zents Lumber, Karen Boylen, Montana Mad Hatters, Martin Guitar, Tire Rama and Jaxonbilt Hats.

Exciting musical entertainment will be provided by Dan Miller and his band. You might remember Dan as commentator on Professional Bull Rider broadcasts. This talented individual has also been an actor, stage performer with the Dan Miller Band, and host to many radio and television programs. He currently makes his home at Cody, Wyoming where his Branson-style music variety show Cowboy Music Revue is popular. He also maintains the production company First Light Television at Nashville, and is currently both producer and host of Due West.

T.J. Casey and the Roughriders, popular with audiences across America, will share the stage with the Dan Miller Band. T.J. is a Montana cowboy whose lengthy associations with cattle, horses and old-timers in Big Sky Country’s climactic perversity have hewn him rough but true. Time spent onstage as an entertainer nationwide across the last three decades has given him and his words, music, and presentation a polish and presence truly “for the audience.” You’ll love this larger-than-life artist and his great band.

Reserve your tickets now for this fabulous February fundraiser. You’ll also be able to buy copies of the GBF’s initial fundraiser, a two-CD set featuring original compositions and performances by 25 of the top cowboy musicians, poets and singer/songwriters in today’s cowboy culture movement. A new CD is now under production and should also be available at that time. Neighbors helping neighbors is the cowboy way, and that’s the mission of the Giving Back Foundation.

To buy CD’s or donate to the Giving Back Foundation, call (406) 442-3420 or write Giving Back Foundation c/o Montana Stockgrowers Association, 420 North California Street, Helena, Montana 59601. And be sure check out www.ranchersandfarmers.org to learn more about this young organization that’s fulfilling its mission in many wonderful ways.
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GIVING BACK FOUNDATION IN ACTION -2008

The first year of life is filled with challenges and adjustments, and is never a time of huge expectations. New babies can’t do much – new organizations likewise struggle to find their feet and make progress.

The Giving Back Foundation (GBF), a Montana-based non-profit entity pledged to help hurting ranchers and farmers nationwide, turned a year old last December, and has been exemplary in growing up into the “good neighbor” premise it was founded upon.

Co-founder and President of the GBF, T.J. Casey of Billings, Montana, says, “As a cowboy and a horse trainer, I have been on or around ranches and ranchers all my life. They have been the backbone of America by providing our food, clothing, and other necessities, and it’s time to give something back. They’ve faced drought, fire, flash floods, tornadoes, blizzards and hail, and there is nothing more devastating to a rancher or farmer than to suffer loss of fields, pasture, livestock, grain, fence or winter feed.”

Alleviating some of that loss is the mission of GBF, and in its first year the fledgling organization found many opportunities to fulfill that mission.

The first money extended to hurting farmers and ranchers went to Colorado, during the big winter blizzards early in 2007. All travel was paralyzed, roads were drifted shut for days, and many cattle died for lack of both feed and water. Even after the crisis, ag producers suffered great expense and continued loss as they tried to dig out from under the snow.

Ranchers and farmers who have endured several years of drought, grass fires, flooding in some areas, and other natural disasters find their savings depleted and no money available when their kids graduate from high school and want to go to college. Realizing this, the Giving Back Foundation reached out to the states of Montana, Washington and Idaho with scholarship money for freshmen coming from farms and ranches into the Ag Department and planning to return to those farms and ranches after college. Under this program, GBF scholarships were given to the University of Idaho, Washington State University, and Montana State University.

In November of 2007 the Sweetgrass Creek region near Melville, Montana was devastated by a fast-moving wildfire that swept across ranches, pastures, hayfields and homesteads with a hungry vengeance, devouring everything in its path. All lost barns, outbuildings, vehicles, fences, winter hay supplies and more. On behalf of GBF, T.J. Casey presented a check to Chuck Rein, president of the Crazy Mountain Stockgrowers at the 2007 Montana Stockgrowers Annual Convention held in Billings last December.

Neighbor helping neighbor is the cowboy way. Evidence of that, incorporating the appreciation of the region, are the GBF benefit concerts scheduled during the fourth annual South Central Montana Cowboy & Ranch Heritage Week in Livingston, Montana. Two shows, at 3 pm and 7 pm on April 6th at the Park County Fairgrounds will feature, Montana Cowboy T.J. Casey, Henry Real Bird and the Armentaro Brothers. Rounding out the star-studded cast of entertainers will be Marvin Rainwater and Ray Benson, backed by members of the venerable and ever popular group Asleep At The Wheel.

This is a great opportunity to have fun, be royally entertained, and lend support to the Giving Back Foundation for more information call 406-222-1993. Tickets will be on sale at all Corral West stores in Billings, Livingston and Bozeman and at Hanson Music and the Native American Trading Post in Billings.

Another springtime opportunity for increasing the coffers of GBF will come to Three Forks, Montana on April 26th, 2008. A benefit concert, with donations at the door and all proceeds going to the GBF, will be held at the Ruby Theatre.

This event is in conjunction with the Spring Roundup and Drive of Montana Horses, Kail & Renee Mantle, and the performance will begin around 4 pm, after the horses are trailed through downtown Three Forks. The concert will include a variety of music, humor and poetry from several outstanding artists – Jim Reader, T.J. Casey, Kail Mantle, Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns and the ever-popular Ringling 5.

Last year the Montana Horses trail drive attracted some 16,000 spectators to Three Forks, so this will be too good to miss. Mark your calendars now, and go to www.montanahorses.com  for more information on the drive.

The sale of GBF’s initial fundraiser, a two-CD set featuring original compositions and performances by 25 of the top cowboy musicians, poets and singer/songwriters in today’s cowboy culture movement, continues, with all proceeds going to GBF.

To buy CD’s or donate to the Giving Back Foundation, call (406) 442-3420 or write Giving Back Foundation c/o Montana Stockgrowers Association, 420 North California Street, Helena, Montana 59601. And be sure check out www.ranchersandfarmers.org to learn more about the Giving Back Foundation, a young organization that’s fulfilling its mission in many wonderful ways.
 

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Giving Back Foundation provides assistance in Michigan - 2008

Helena, Montana – The Giving Back Foundation, recently provided assistance to two Michigan sharecrop farmers to help them rebuild their homes after losing them to chimney fires.

T. J. Casey, president of the Giving Back Foundation, had recently met these families during a performance at the Michigan Horse Council Horse Expo in Lansing, MI.  “These two families have given unselfishly of their time for years to assist children in 4-H and other agricultural activities, “ stated T. J. “and the Foundation wanted to make sure these fire disasters didn’t prevent these families from staying in the agriculture business.”

Funding for the Giving Back Foundation is generated from the sales of a 2-disc CD that includes tracks donated by western poets and musicians including T. J. Casey, R. W. Hampton, Rusty Feathers, Kail Mantle, Ken Overcast, Ringling 5, Open Range, Sisters of the Silver Sage and several other artists. The CD is available for $24.95 from www.ranchersandfarmers.org or by calling (406) 442-3420.

The Giving Back Foundation is a nationwide effort to assist ranchers and farmers who have been affected by the ravages of Mother Nature.  You can help today by sending your tax-deductible contribution to GBF, 420 N California, Helena, MT  59601.  Your gift will directly support keeping families in agriculture.

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Giving Back Foundation Provides Assistance - 2007

Helena, Montana – The Giving Back Foundation, which was started by T.J. Casey, recently provided assistance to Melville area ranchers who were hit hard by a fast-moving wildfire last fall.  Casey presented a check in the amount of $2,000 to Chuck Rein, president of the Crazy Mountain Stockgrowers at the 2007 Montana Stockgrowers Annual Convention held in Billings last December.

“Mother Nature makes no provisions for the blood, sweat and tears farmers and ranchers put into keeping an outfit together,” said Casey. “When nature’s devastation hits, it can wipe that operation out completely. That’s where the Giving Back Foundation can help. We don’t want anyone leaving agriculture due to a natural disaster.

The Giving Back Foundation has also contributed to several animal science college scholarship funds in Idaho, Washington and Montana to help students going into an ag-related field. Funding for the Giving Back Foundation is generated from the sales of a 2-disc CD that includes tracks donated by western poets and musicians including T. J. Casey, R. W. Hampton, Rusty Feathers, Kail Mantle, Ken Overcast, Ringling 5, Open Range, Sisters of the Silver Sage and several other artists. The CD is available for $24.95 from www.ranchersandfarmers.org or by calling (406) 442-3420.

The Giving Back Foundation is a nationwide effort to assist ranchers and farmers who have been affected by the ravages of Mother Nature.  You can help today by sending your tax-deductible contribution to GBF, 420 N California, Helena, MT  59601.  Your gift will directly support keeping families in agriculture.

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COWBOY POETRY IMPACTS STUDENTS POSITIVELY - 2007

Billings, Montana -- April is National Poetry Month, and April 15 – 21 marks the sixth annual Cowboy Poetry Week. That recognition was implemented through a unanimous resolution passed in the United States Senate in April 2003, and is reaffirmed each year through gubernatorial proclamations and special activities across the West and beyond.

This year, at the urging of Montana cowboy poets represented by D. W. Groethe of Bainville, Governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana joins governors of many other states in officially saluting Cowboy Poetry Week, noting the importance of “public awareness to this form of art and its value to the people of Montana.”

“I am pleased to recognize Cowboy Poetry Week in the state of Montana,” Schweitzer said. “Cowboy poetry has a rich history in Montana and has been an active part of schools and communities in Montana.”

One such school is the Billings Educational Academy, a community-oriented holistic learning center focusing on the individual learning style of each child, in an environment that encourages and supports each child’s unique gifts.

Acclaimed cowboy poet, songwriter, musician, vocalist and entertainer T.J. Casey of Billings was impressed by the Academy’s mission to nurture creativity, love of learning, personal growth and intellectual integrity, and develop life long learners. T.J. is dedicated to working with young people, and eagerly gives of his time and talents to introduce students at BEA and other schools in several states to cowboy poetry.

Mrs. Margo Haak, fulltime instructor and Administrator at the Academy says, “The kids LOVE T.J. and his poems and music! He is always the first one they ask for when the school year begins. Two of our students have had their poetry on T.J.’s website, www.tjcasey.net. That was awesome for them!”

In Casey’s mind, introducing students to cowboy poetry is seriously important. “I believe in our roots and heritage,” he says. “We all need to stand up and protect the traditions and legacies we've inherited, and I've got a story to tell. I want to be an image for kids to look up to, and hopefully instill in them this same love of country and customs I know and respect. Without our heritage, our children lose focus. Without our children's focus, we lose our world.”

So believing, T.J. aims to utilize the natural talent and imaginations of kids through teaching them to use cowboy poetry as a vehicle of expression. He further understands that this process gives them confidence to believe in themselves and their abilities.

Through their association with T.J., and the window he opened for them into the lives, beliefs and values of cowboys, the students and teachers of Billings Educational Academy became excited about and involved in the Giving Back Foundation (GBF), a nationwide nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting ranchers and farmers hard hit by natural disasters.

T. J. and his wife Marcie were instrumental bringing the GBF to life at Billings, Montana last winter.
“Every man, woman and child in America is dependent on the farmer and rancher for food, clothing and other necessities of life,” Casey said. “The rancher and farmer have been the backbone of America for years and it’s time we give something back . . . we appreciate their hard work and what they provide for us, so we should let them know.”

When GBF decided to kick off their efforts with an Appreciation Concert and Auction in Billings last December, the Billings Educational Academy was among the first to volunteer help.

Learning of the need for the GBF and understanding its mission, then assisting with the Concert and Auction, gave the students an even deeper introduction to cowboy poetry and music; along with the historic Western principle of helping one another.

Margo Haak believes that experience widened her student’s horizons by raising their awareness of people and situations beyond their community. She said it was “definitely a positive!” and continued, “It helped my students to realize the extent of others’ misfortunes, and how important it is to help.”

Helping is a concept BEA students are familiar with. Margo says, “A big part of the student’s education here is learning to be good citizens and give of themselves. We participate in the community through cooking and serving meals at the Rescue Mission, adopting Foster Grandparents, and helping with Eagle Mount, Angel Horses, Special Olympics and Adopt-A-Highway. The Giving Back Concert was a wonderful experience because it was so different. I’m sure my students didn’t realize the problems and plights of farmers and ranchers – what an eye opener! We are so ready to be involved again.”

The BEA students said they were eager to be involved “to help people.” On learning of ag producer’s losses through fire, drought and blizzard, seven-year-old Jordan said, “I didn’t like to hear about it because they have to pay for it . . . it made me glad it didn’t hit me but sad it hit them.”

Eleven-year old Michaya was astounded to learn “how many businesses in agriculture it affected.”

And ten-year-old Danielle wisely realized, “All the stuff we have in every day farmer’s life is more important than a computer, because they do so much to help.”

The students enjoyed being on stage, being videoed and helping the effort, but were disappointed the concert did not last longer and the auction items did not bring more money.

They would all enjoy another opportunity to hear cowboy poetry and songs on stage, and they urge you to purchase the Giving Back Foundation CD set of cowboy poetry and song to support the good work of that nonprofit group. Cowboy Poetry Week is a perfect time to do that! More information on GBF and how to get your own CD can be found at www.ranchersandfarmers.org.

T.J. Casey continues to bring young people into the fold of those who appreciate and enjoy – and hopefully write and perform – cowboy poetry. In recent months he has taught at schools in North Dakota and Red Lodge, Montana.

Students appreciate the time he shares with them. Danielle at BEA says, “I feel really happy because he could be doing a million other things but he’s not. His songs make me happy.”

Jordan comments, “I love it. It is nice having someone coming here who loves the school and takes time and effort out of his heart for us.”

“I’m really happy he chooses this school because there’s like a hundred other public schools he could go to . . . and I like that he lets us do poetry,” Michaya says.

Tera, a teacher and parent at BEA says, “I haven’t had the pleasure of seeing T.J. Casey at the school yet, but I am sure the next time he visits it will be as wonderful as the concert.”

In addition to schools, libraries across the West benefit through Cowboy Poetry Week. The Center for Western and Cowboy Poetry and the website www.cowboypoetry.com has a mission to serve rural communities as it works to preserve and promote cowboy poetry and Western heritage.

“As a part of our outreach program, Rural Library Project, libraries are receiving the Cowboy Poetry Week poster and an invitation for a complimentary copy of The BAR-D Roundup: Volume II (2007),” they say. “In 2007, libraries in the following states and provinces are receiving posters: Alberta, Arizona, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ontario, Oregon, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.”
This year Cowboy Poetry Week happily coincides with National Library Week, making the Rural Library Project especially timely. The Cowboy Poetry Week poster given to participating libraries features a beautiful Tim Cox painting of a cowboy moving cattle, titled “At His Own Pace”.

Tim Cox comments on this painting: "This depicts a ranch hand on the T-4 Ranch near Tucumcari, New Mexico. This is during fall works and we were always taught that the fastest way to work cows is slow: at his own pace."
Cowboy Poetry Week posters are not sold. They are offered to libraries in the Rural Library Project and to supporters of the Center for Western and Cowboy Poetry, which sponsors CowboyPoetry.com, Cowboy Poetry Week, the Rural Library project, and other great programs.

Read more about Tim Cox at his web site: www.TimCox.com; and about Cowboy Poetry Week and the Center for Western and Cowboy Poetry at www.cowboypoetry.com.

Cowboy poets in most states are involved in programs at libraries and schools this week. Watch your local media for times and places, or check out http://www.cowboypoetry.com/week2007.htm.

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JANUARY - 2007

Sent money to Colorado to help the ranchers and farmers in need after the blizzards.

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NONPROFIT “GBF” ASSISTS HARD HIT RANCHERS AND FARMERS - 2006

The newly-formed Giving Back Foundation is bringing a flicker of hope to devastated ranchers

and farmers across the West. Brainchild of local cowboy, horse trainer and performer T. J. Casey

and his wife Marcie, the nonprofit Foundation is based on one of the ancient principles and

unwritten rules of the agrarian lifestyle. Whether your interpretation is “help one another” or

“take care of your own”, it translates into a wonderful way to help hurting ag producers across

the US and Canada.

Sprung from cowboy roots and involved in the preservation and perpetuation of cowboy heritage

through music and entertainment, the Casey’s were shocked and saddened by the mind-boggling

widespread devastation of blizzards, drought, and savage wildfires across North America this year.

“As a cowboy and a horse trainer, I have been on or around ranches and ranchers all my life,”

T.J. says. “I’ve seen drought, fire, flash floods, tornadoes, blizzards and hail. There is nothing more

devastating to a rancher or farmer than to have a loss of fields, pasture, livestock, grain, fence or

winter feed.”

Determined to help, the Casey’s contacted ag producers across the west and discovered the true

depth of need. As the bitter months of winter draw near, ranchers and farmers who’ve been helping

feed the world for decades are teetering on the brink of bankruptcy, many clinging to their last

hopes of staying in business . . . others trying to face the inevitability of losing everything.

No localized situation, this specter haunts ag producers from the Canadian prairies to the Texas

panhandle, from Kansas to California, from New Mexico to Montana.

“The rancher and farmer have been the backbone of America for years, and it’s time we give

something back,” Casey insists. “Every man, woman and child here is dependent on the farmer and

rancher for food, clothing and other necessities of life. We appreciate their hard work and what they

provide for us, so we should let them know.”

Turning to friends in the Western entertainment field, the Casey’s were overwhelmed by the empathy,

concern and willingness to help exhibited by fellow artists. Why not use cowboy music and poetry as a

 fundraising vehicle?  Their embryonic project idea has grown into two truly enjoyable ways to lend

a helping hand to those who’ve lost the most. First, there’s the Giving Back Concert and Appreciation

Auction, coming to Holiday Inn Grand Montana, Trade Center in Billings on December 13th,

starting at 7 pm.

Held in conjunction with the Annual Convention of the Montana Stockgrower’s Association (one

of the Foundation’s strongest supporters),, the concert will feature Ringling 5,

Ken Overcast, Kail Mantle, Rusty Feathers, Open Range and T.J. Casey. Rarely is such an outstanding

cast of traditional cowboy musicians, vocalists and entertainers assembled for a single performance.

Enhancing the premiere concert will be a huge silent auction, offering literally everything for the

Western enthusiast; the perfect place to complete your Christmas shopping. For all this, tickets are

a mere $10!

“We hope you’ll mark your calendars now and plan on being there,” Casey urges. “Money raised by

the nonprofit Giving Back Foundation will be distributed across the west to agricultural producers

now in danger of losing everything.”

The second facet of the Giving Back Foundation’s project is a two-set compact disc to be released for

sale in December -- hopefully the evening of the concert. These fabulous recordings will feature 25

selections by western singer/songwriters, musicians and cowboy poets who have unhesitatingly

donated their art, time and effort to the Foundation. Northwest Farm Credit Services has also

stepped up to generously sponsor the creation of the CD, enabling all proceeds to go

directly to farmers and ranchers in need.

Participating artists hail from across North America, and include Eli Barsi & Doris Daley, T.J. Casey,

Donnie Blanz, Bill Clark & Salt Creek, Jeff Gore, Geff Dawson, R.W. Hampton, Rusty Feathers, Kail

Mantle, Terry Henderson, Dan Miller, Open Range, Ken Overcast, Sam Noble, Palo Duro, Mike

Puhallo, Jim Reader, Delbert Shields, Ringling 5, Jay Snider, Sisters of the Silver Sage, Rhonda Sedgwick

Stearns, R. J. Vandygriff, Margaret Wilhelm and Barry Ward. The CD set will be available through

the Montana Stockgrowers Association, selling for $24.95.

Additional support for the Foundation is currently coming from the Montana Stockgrowers Association,

Northern Ag Network, Northwest Farm Credit Services, Cow Camp Communications, APEX Advisory

Services, A to Z Media, Martin Guitar and Billings Education Academy.

Corporate and private donations to this worthy cause are actively sought. If you find it in your heart

to join the effort, go to www.ranchersandfarmers.org, call (406) 442-3420 or write Giving Back

Foundation c/o Montana Stockgrowers Association, 420 North California Street, Helena, Montana 59601.

“Join the fun,” urges T.J. Casey. “Attend this concert, buy a CD and let the farmers and ranchers know

that we are here for them as they have been for us.”

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Response for the Appreciation Auction has been overwhelming - 2006


Billings, MT -- “Response for the Appreciation Auction has been overwhelming,” T.J. Casey, founder and president of the nonprofit Giving Back Foundation, announced today. “We have a beautiful double-bred Sun Frost two-year-old gelding, breeding fees to two fantastic Quarter Horse stallions and an equally outstanding Paint stallion, lots of world class original artwork of varied mediums, Western apparel, cowboy equipment, books, CD’s, prime grade beef, certificates for horseshoeing or massage therapy – well, you name it, I think we’ve got it.”

The Giving Back Foundation, based on the unchanging, unwritten cowboy code of neighbor helping neighbor, is dedicated to America’s ag producers who insure our very survival through supplying everything we eat and wear, plus a lot of essential pharmaceuticals and other by-products. Many of these staff-of-life producers are facing the loss of their homes, lifestyle and livelihood as a result of blizzards, droughts, wildfires and other natural disasters during 2006.

The Appreciation Auction, originally planned as a simple Silent Auction, has mushroomed wildly to include a live auction for some items. It all happens at the Holiday Inn Grand Montana in Billings on December 13th, in conjunction with the 122nd Annual Convention of the Montana Stockgrowers Association. Festivities begin at 7 pm, and an awesome Giving Back Concert, featuring a half dozen of the West’s finest cowboy performers and entertainers, will top off the evening.

Internationally known professional horse trainer, clinician and author Curt Pate of Helena, Montana, will hold the gavel for the live auction. You may have heard Pate’s name mentioned as technical advisor for the Robert Redford movie “The Horse Whisperer”, but he’s far more than that. He’s been teaching practical horsemanship through clinics and books for a decade, and is a true advocate of cowboy tradition.

Pate is so enthusiastic about the mission of the Giving Back Foundation that he’s donated a three-day stay at his own ranch for a training clinic of the purchaser’s choice.

In Curt’s words, “Come and visit, and I’ll teach you to train horses, dogs, kids, just whatever you want.”

Another auction item certain to get the bidder’s adrenaline up is a square foot tile on the Montana ProRodeo Hall & Wall of Fame (www.montanaprorodeo.org) at Metra Park Arena. The tile will permanently display the winning bidder’s brand, name and address in a prestigious area where spaces are limited and coveted.

The website www.ranchersandfarmers.org will display a listing of all sale items prior to the auction date.
Tickets for the event will be available at the door for $10 each. Due to limited seating and the growing popularity of this event, it might be wise to call the Montana Stockgrowers Association at (406) 442-3420 to have them reserve your tickets. For tickets by mail, write Giving Back Foundation c/o Montana Stockgrowers Association, 420 North California Street, Helena, Montana 59601.

“I hope you’ll be there to help send a message of hope to these stalwart ranchers and farmers,” T.J. Casey urges.

“Let’s step up and support them like they’ve always supported us.”

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Corporate and private donations to this worthy cause are actively sought. 

If you find it in your heart to join the effort,

 call (406) 442-3420