TSCN #81: Amarillo, TX
From Cattle Empire to Economic Struggle
Howdy folks, Texas Slim here. As we celebrated the birth of our nation, let's take a moment to reflect on the roots of our American heritage. Today, we're going to take a journey back in time to the bustling cattle town of Amarillo, Texas, and then fast forward to the present day, where the echoes of the past are shaping the future of the beef industry.
Amarillo, the largest city in the Texas Panhandle, has a rich history steeped in cattle and cowboy lore. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Amarillo was a thriving small town, known as the "Helium Capital of the World" for its abundant natural gas reserves, including helium. But it wasn't just the helium that put Amarillo on the map. The city was a key player in the Texas cattle industry, with the Amarillo Livestock Auction being one of the largest cattle auctions in the world. The auction house was a bustling hub of activity, where cattle ranchers from all over the region would come to buy and sell cattle. The sounds of auctioneers' calls, the lowing of cattle, and the chatter of ranchers filled the air, creating a symphony that was music to the ears of those in the cattle business.
Fast forward to today, and Amarillo and the surrounding area is still home to the most cattle in the nation. However, the city has changed. The once-thriving small town is now grappling with poverty and economic challenges. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Amarillo's poverty rate is 15.8%, which is higher than the national average of 11.6%. The city, which was once a beacon of prosperity and opportunity, is now a stark reminder of the economic disparities that plague many communities across the nation.
Despite these challenges, the spirit of Amarillo remains unbroken. The city's rich cattle history is being leveraged to create a brighter future. The cattle industry, which has been a cornerstone of Amarillo's economy for over a century, is undergoing a transformation. And at the forefront of this transformation are Justin Trammell and Cole Bolton.
Justin and Cole are not just leaders in the beef industry; they are pioneers. They are the brains behind two of the best processing centers in the nation. These microprocessors are the answer to the challenges faced by ranchers and producers who previously didn't have access to processing centers. Justin and Cole's processing centers are not just facilities for processing beef; they are hubs of collaboration and innovation that are driving the evolution of the beef industry.
The collaboration within the Beef Initiative, spearheaded by Justin and Cole, is ten steps ahead of everyone's understanding. They are advising on their level of processing center, bringing different producers through their processing centers, and enabling these producers to develop their own input protocols. This collaboration is breaking down barriers and leveling the playing field for ranchers and producers.
The impact of this collaboration is far-reaching. It's not just about processing beef; it's about building a sustainable and resilient local food system. It's about empowering ranchers and producers to take control of their supply chains. It's about creating a model that can be replicated in other communities across the nation.
This is why the collaboration between Justin, Cole, and the Beef Initiative is so crucial at this time. It's a beacon of hope for Amarillo and other communities like it. It's a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the face of adversity.
So, as we celebrated our nation's independence, let's remember the spirit of collaboration and innovation that has defined our nation's history. Let's remember the pioneers like Justin and Cole who are shaping the future of the beef industry. And let's remember the resilient spirit of cities like Amarillo, which continue to adapt and evolve in the face of adversity. As we all hopefully enjoyed our Fourth of July barbecues, let's take a moment to appreciate the journey of the beef on our plates, from the ranches of Amarillo and Central Texas and the rest of this great nation to the innovative processing centers of Justin and Cole alike.
This Independence Day Week has passed us by, so let's celebrate not just our freedom, but also the collaborative spirit that continues to drive our nation forward.
Saddle up, partners. We're on a journey to change the world, one cow and one box of beef at a time. And with your support, I reckon we'll get there. Until next time, keep it clean, keep it local, and keep it moving forward with one handshake at a time.
Much love & respect,
Slim
What are your thoughts on the role of local food systems in supporting struggling communities?
Do you know of other innovative solutions to the challenges faced by the beef industry?
The Beef Initiative Association Council.
Mission Statement
Here at TBIAC, we have a mission to begin providing top-level intelligence for micro-processing facilities in Texas and across the US. We lead with proof of work and look forward to working with you to facilitate the process of feeding local communities. Integrity is how we lead. See you on the inside.
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Support The Beef Initiative
There are many ways you can support The Beef Initiative:
Join The Movement
You can also donate your time and talent. Get on the front lines and volunteer from home with our team. No contribution is too small. Everyone can play a part in the fight for our future.
Slim is ready for anyone with experience as a Product & Program Funnel Creator for our “Lifestyle Management” division we are launching.
If you would like to contribute please send an email to Angie our Communication Operator to: texasslimscuts@gmail.com and tell us what you can do.