BILLINGS, MONT. - 

The Northern International Livestock Exposition organization has been around since 1967. The NILE organizations' mission statement reads "Dedicated to the promotion of Livestock, Agricultural Education, and Respect for Western Culture". This long standing leader in Agricultural programs including the Stock Show & Rodeo, Montana Agri-Trade Expo, host of the Professional Bull Riders Billings event and so many more events began a scholarship programs in 1990 based on that very mission statement.

Thus, we are thrilled to announce that since the inception of those scholarship programs, the NILE has given over $470,000 in live animal and cash scholarships as of April 20, 2014.  The NILE is proud of the over 410 youth rewarded including 257 who have been awarded Merit Heifers since the program's inception in 2003 and the 157 young adults who have been awarded college scholarships since 1990. Building better youth by creating opportunities to move agriculture forward through learning and promoting occupations that feed the world is something worth continuing! None of these opportunities would be possible without the dedication of the many long-time supporters. All of us involved would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to every individual who has contributed to these programs over the years.

Each year the NILE Foundation presents Stetsons & Stilettos. This annual black tie gala, held May 30, 2014 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center welcomes guests and donors alike to gather up for a celebration of the western way of life while allowing the aforementioned scholarship programs to grow. Copper Mountain Band will treat attendees to outstanding entertainment while guests enjoy fine dining, dancing, live & silent auctions and much more!

For more information about NILE programs including the Stetson & Stilettos ticket information, visit the NILE website at www.nile.org or contact the office at (406) 256-2495.