National Cowgirl Museum Media Advisory

The National Cowgirl Museum's Cowgirl University is inviting journalists to take part in Cowgirl U events throughout 2009 however, due to the limited registration numbers of each event, only one journalist will be accepted per event.

"We welcome journalists to come to these events as each one of the events offers insight into the history and contributions of women to our western heritage and how those contributions are still relevant today," said CU program director Chad Isham.

Journalists may contact Julie Bryant at 817.223.2324 or email her at julie@golatigo.com to apply. Journalists will be responsible for “hard costs” of each event, which varies and includes meals and accommodations as applicable. This is a substantial discounted cost. Travel and accommodations not included in any program is the responsibility of the journalist. Consideration of in-kind promotional services by accepted publications will be appreciated. Interest should be expressed as soon as possible as events fill months in advance.

Programs for 2009 include (those not available are indicated):

Legendary Ranch Series, Part I -  Guthrie, Texas RESERVED
March 13-15
The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame begins its Legendary Ranch Series at the renowned Four Sixes in Guthrie, and Tongue River Ranch in Paducah, Texas.  Each course focuses on ranches instrumental in shaping and defining the identity of the West. Students will learn about Hall of Fame Honorees whose lives and families are intertwined with these historic ranches. Experience a real working cattle and horse ranch while getting an inside look at some of the top breeding programs in the world for horse and beef cattle breeds. Hall of Fame Honoree Anne W. Marion and her family’s impact on the ranching and breeding industry will be profiled at this event. Enrollment is limited to 12 participants. Call for pricing

Trail Trials – Fort Worth Texas Area
April 18-19
Back by popular demand is Trail Trials, the fun and educational Cowgirl U event that tests the abilities of students and their horses in a natural setting. Spend time with Hall of Fame Honoree Terry Stuart Forst and take part in a trail clinic prior to the trials through a partnership with the American Quarter Horse Association. Both days include a trail ride, with the trail clinic held April 18 and Trail Trials held April 19. Buckles will be awarded. As one past student said, "Trail Trials was a wonderful experience. The clinician and support staff made it enjoyable for all riders no matter their level of skill." No hookups or camping available. Enrollment is limited to 30. Own horse required. Cost: $115 members; $125 non-members. Includes lunch.

Saddle Making – Fort Worth Texas
June 6
Explore the art of saddle making during an exclusive, non-public tour of one of the nation’s most celebrated saddle makers: M.L. Leddy and Sons of Fort Worth. Since 1922, this family-owned company continues to set the standard in handmade western boots and saddles. Students will enjoy coffee and pastries and will learn about a Hall of Fame Honoree before seeing the different stages involved in saddle making, create a coaster out of leather and finish with lunch at H3 in the Stockyards.  Registration is limited to 10. COST: $75 members; $85 non members.

Women’s Retreat  - Greenough, Montana
September 24-27
Cowgirl U celebrates the artistry of its honorees as it returns to Paws Up Ranch, located in the heart of the picturesque Blackfoot Valley, in Greenough, Montana. Gain valuable insight into the inspiration surrounding the work of some of the most treasured artists in America, including 1981 Honoree and sculptor Pamela Harr, as well as 1990 Honoree Betty Sims Solt, who will share her wit and humor through her poetry. Potter Maria Martinez, a 1998 Honoree, and Pulitzer Prize winner Willa Cather, will also be profiled. You’ll find the five-star accommodations relaxing and welcoming, with cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Wes Coffel. Enrollment is limited to 30 women, 18 and older. Call for pricing.

Legendary Ranch Series, Part II – Alpine Texas RESERVED
October 2-4
The Legendary Ranch Series continues at it moves to the heart of west Texas ranch country to Alpine and the Kokernot o6. The Kokernot o6 Ranch has been operating continuously by the Kokernot family for more than a century. Herbert Kokernot, Jr.'s grandson, Chris Lacy now manages the o6 Ranch. Hall of Fame Honoree Hallie Stillwell, known as “Queen of the Big Bend,” will be profiled and honored. Accommodations will be at the nearby CF Ranch, a destination for elk and deer hunters, as well as a few movie production crews.   Enrollment is limited to 12 participants. Call for pricing.

Barrel Racing and Performance Horsemanship – Montgomery, Alabama
October 30-November 1
Join National Cowgirl Hall of Fame Honoree Jimmie Gibbs-Munroe and Sharon Camarillo as they  bring Cowgirl U their unmatched experience as horsewomen and champion barrel racers to the Bartlett Conservancy’s first River Region Ranch Expo in Montgomery, Alabama. The program is designed to strengthen horsemanship at all levels. Drills and riding exercises will help reinforce correct and consistent use of the rider's hands, seat, and legs to improve communication and understanding between horse and rider. Enrollment is limited to 30 riders and includes two full days of instruction as well as meals. Spectators welcome. Clinic registration is limited to 24. No hookups or camping. Own horse required. Call for pricing.


Again, journalists may contact Julie Bryant at 8917.223.2324 or email her at julie@golatigo.com to apply. Applications must be received from publication servers or on publication letterhead. Freelancers must have placement for a story confirmed prior to acceptance of application.