For Immediate Release

Sept. 1. 2005

For Information:  Burt Rutherford  (800) 299-8232

TCFA KICKS OFF CATTLEMEN'S KATRINA FUND

            The Texas Cattle Feeders Association today donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross for relief efforts for victims of Hurricane Katrina.

            "This $25,000 check kicks off a major effort by TCFA members to assist the people in Louisiana, Mississippi and THE Gulf Coast area where lives were devastated by Hurricane Katrina," said Charlie Sellers, chairman of the Texas Cattle Feeders Association (TCFA).  "Over the next few days, we will work with feedyards, auction markets, packers and cattlemen to raise additional funds."

            Sellers said TCFA's goal is to raise $1 million through special relief sales at livestock auctions, donations by feedyards and packing plants equal to the value of fed cattle and individual donations by cattlemen.  TCFA has established the Cattlemen's Katrina Fund to hold the donations. 

            "We hope we can reach our goal in the next 45 days," Sellers said.  "Cattle people have always helped in time of need, and the victims of this hurricane in Louisiana and Mississippi need us now.  I encourage all cattlemen to be a part." 

            To make a donation, send a tax-deductible check made out to "Cattlemen's Katrina Fund" to TCFA, 5501 I-40 West, Amarillo, TX 79106.  For information, contact TCFA at (806) 358-3681 or info@tcfa.org. 

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