ach year the NILE Foundationhosts a formal dinner and dance as their major fundraiser. The money raised from ticket sales, table sales, the silent and live auctions and donations contributes to youth programs such as; college scholarships, 4th grade Ag Education, livestock judging competitions, the NILE Merit Heifer Program, and the Junior Fed Livestock Show and Sale. The also serves to support the NILE to promote livestock, agriculture, and respect for the western culture.
Come celebrate the future of agriculture at Stetsons and Stilettos the first Saturday in June. Get the red carpet treatment at the beautiful and historic Northern Hotel in downtown Billings. Valet parking will welcome you into the ballroom to begin the cocktail hour at 5:30. Browse the numerous live and silent auction items while catching up with friends until being seated for dinner at 7. Enjoy an excellently prepared steak dinner during the scholarship recipients' presentation. These bright young adults will briefly speak on their achievements and aspirations--inspirational stories that give hope for the future of the agriculture industry. Raise your hand and bid your heart during the live auction to benefit scholarships. Packages include a bronze by Mary Michael titled Daddy's Home, two quick-draw paintings that will be created that night in front of your eyes, memorabilia from PBR Entertainer Flint Rasmussen, and more. Wrap up the night by dancing to The Bucky Beaver Ground Grippers--a local band that plays country favorites and upbeat originals. Stetsons and Stilettos is hosted by the NILE Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit that raises money for NILE Youth Programs, specifically focusing on high education scholarships.
Stetsons and Stilettos began in 2007 and has since grown to be a sold out event.
In 2015 the ballroom was a full house at the Northern Hotel. Approximately 400 people were in attendance and raised over $60,000. The silent auction had over 50 different items donated from businesses around the area. The live auction had 14 packages that were well received. Auctioneer Roger Jacobs handed the microphone over for three packages to let 2014 scholarship recipient Seth Kraft try out his auctioneer chant. Eight other scholarship recipients gave a short presentation and it was clear why they were scholarship winners--each one spoke eloquently on the importance of agriculture. Special guest Flint Rasmussen was a definite highlight for the evening, he entertained the crowd with personal stories that touched on the importance of rural living. Emcee Russell Nemetz challenged Flint to a lip sync battle that led to cheers, whistles and a standing ovation.
The NILE Foundation, Stetsons and Stilettos Committee and NILE staff extend their thanks to all who attended, donated and helped. We appreciate your involvement.
Reserve a room at the Northern Hotel for a special rate by visiting this link.
For those wishing to give to the efforts of the NILE and receive the benefits of giving to a 501 (c) (3) non-profit, please contact the NILE Office at (406) 256-2495 or email .