December 2023

Magazine

CIS Cowg irls In Style

fashion l rodeo l beauty l horses l fitness December NFR Issue 2023

Heartland’s Jessica Steen

Talks about her Role as Lisa, and everything behind the scenes

NFR ISSUE

Fashions to wear & things to do at the NFR

Jessica Steen “Lisa” From Heartland

Christmas Gift GuidE NFR Insider December 2023 $5.95

AG Women Connect

Kennadee Riggs-MRA Queen 2023

#924

In Style

COWGIRLS NFR Issue December 2023 Founder Editor-In-Chief Susan Gentry

Contributors Devanie Gentry Photography Contributors Leah Hennel Art of Aperture Advertising Landon Gentry Send editorial submissions to: editor@cowgirlsinstyle.com For Advertising: advertising@cowgirlsinstyle.com Country Productions P.O. Box 841 Washington, UT 84780 Art/Production/Layout Country Productions Contact

Email: info@cowgirlsinstyle.com Cowgirls In Style Magazine is a product of

In Every Issue NFR Issue December 2023

24 Letter From the Editor 26 Editor Picks 28 Beauty Barn Holiday Fragrances

30 Fashion Forecast Holiday Party Attire 32 Cowgirl Boss Planners

34 Cowgirl Boss Feature Ag Women Connect

52 Miss Rodeo America 2023 Kennadee Riggs

36 Stable Life Calming An Unruly Horse

62 Rodeo Runway Cowgirl Boss

Featured Cover Feature 40 Jessica Steen Meet Lisa of Heartland

ON THE COVER

Inside...

38 What’s in Our Bag 48 NFR Fashion 52 Pageantry Feature Miss Rodeo America 2023 58 Christmas Gift Guide

Cowgirls In Style Magazine is a product of Country Productions. Cowgirls In Style magazine accepts submission of articles, photos on a individual basis. Cowgirls In Style Magazine assumes no responsibility for material sent in, including articles and photos of unsolicitedd material and from third parties. ©2011-2024 Cowgirls In Style Magazine All Rights Reserved A product of Country Productions

On the Cover: Jessica Steen “Lisa” on Heartland Photo by: Leah Hennel

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A Cowgirl’s Voice...

Editor-in-Chief, Susan Gentry

T

his is my favorite time of year! Whether it’s the feeling of the holidays in the air, with the sense of hope, love and giving, or the excitement of the National Finals Rodeo and the Miss Rodeo America Pageant, it is the time of year that is long awaited.

This is such a fun issue as we feature actress Jessica Steen, who plays Lisa in one of our favorite television series, Heartland. What a fun interview it was. Also, we interview Miss Rodeo America 2023 Kennadee Riggs, as her reign comes to an end and she begins the start of the rest of her life. What a great Miss Rodeo America she has been for the western industry and nation.

Our NFR section is always a festive issue as it is also our Christmas Gift Guide and we focus on what to wear and the places to go during the National FInals Rodeo. We hope you will once again enjoy another nostalgic issue of fashion, rodeo, pageantry, western lifestyle and so much more!

Merry Christmas from our Home to Yours! . Susie

Susan Gentry Editor-In-Chief

Editor Picks

Tricking Christmas

By: Shanna Hatfield

Susan Gentry

My favorite time of year and my favorite Western Romance author has another Holiday hit!

Tricking Christmas His antics drive her crazy.

Her riding skills leave him in awe.

Will the chemistry they share in their rodeo act entangle their stubborn hearts?

In the fast-paced world of rodeo, where adrenaline and passion collide, will two reluctant hearts be drawn into love?

Get it on Amazon.com

26 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

Editor Picks

Beddy’s Bedding A friend introduced me to Beddy’s a couple of years ago, praising their bedding. Although I forgot about it, a social media post reminded me of the brand a few months ago, prompting me to finally make a purchase.

Let me emphasize that this bedding surpasses any other I have ever owned.

To begin with, making my bed used to take a few minutes, but now it only takes a few seconds. I opted for the “Minky” style sheet, which is the softest and coziest sheet I have ever slept on. Beddy’s provides a complete set for the bed, including a wrap-around bottom sheet and a sturdy zipper that encloses the top sheet and comforter in one. Additionally, it includes two pillowcases and two pillow shams for King size. The convenience of making my bed in the morning is astonishing; simply zip up the sides and voila, it’s done!

However, the true testament to the quality of this bedding came after the first night. Both my husband and I woke up feeling refreshed, experiencing the best sleep we have had in years. After a week of using it, I purchased another set for myself, as did my daughter. Two weeks later, I bought yet another set for myself and one

for my son. That’s how exceptional they are!

They also have adjustable pillows that we started using a few weeks ago. They come with three options inside, firm, medium and low. You can leave them all in, or take the ones out you don’t need. You adjust it to your liking. Both my husband and I use the firm and medium options and love it! The pillow has the perfect softness. I really can’t explain it until you actually sleep on it. I also got a couple of their blanket throws which are so soft, comfortable and give your bed that gorgeous finish! I recommend them highly.

They are perfect for any bed and make such a difference with bunk beds and also work great in horse trailers and RV’s.

Check out their ad on page 5 and don’t forget to use the coupon code COWGIRLSTYLE for an additional 25% off!!

They will also be at the NFR at the Convention Center Cowboy Christmas in Booth #34022, or visit them online at: www.beddys.com

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 27

Beauty Barn

HOLIDAY fragrance

the holidays are a wonderful time for western fragrAnces

Get a little western this year with your choice of fragrance! The holidays are the perfect time to try out some of the best cologne in the west. Also a great gift idea.

28 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

Western

WEST DESPERADO X HOOEY In a collaboration with innovative western fashion influencer, West Desperado, our new ladies’ perfume captures the spirit of the modern cowgirl. With notes of citrus combined with essential oils, we created a fragrance that embodies the feminine strength of the new American West. $58.00 getyourhooey.com

LANE FROST WOMEN’S LEGENDARY FOR HER PERFUMe Smell like a championship-caliber cowgirl with the #1 scent in rodeo. $40.00 lanefrost.com

CIS Fashion Picks

Beautiful western party dresses for those holiday parties

western holiday party attire looking for the perfect dress to wear for that work party or holiday party? Here ya go! Merry Christmas!

Devanie Gentry Fashion Editor

Newbury Kustom Women’s Burgundy Berry Smocked Tie Back Short Sleeve Dress

Newbury Kustom prides themselves in creating fun fashion.​This textured burgundy berry, s​ hort sleeved,​smocked, tie-back, tiered dress​is lightweight and cool. Wear your sunshine anytime of year. ​ Newbury Kustom dedicates themselves to inspire women with responsibly made and affordable up-to-the-minute styles.

44.00 cavenders.com

First Love by Lovelyn Women’s Black All Pleats Sleeveless Dress This ​black pleated ​dress that is cute and a blast from the past.

First Love by Lovelyn has the forward fashions you crave.​ $59.00 cavenders.com

30 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

plum party dress

Another Love Women’s Plum Jam Faux Suede Short Sleeve Dress Her confidence is reflected in colorful palettes, prints and great-fitting denim.​This faux suede d​ress is ​a simple b ​ eauty. The unique plum jam reflects the color of rich ​ plum purpl​e​, and the softness is unmatched.​ $59.00 cavenders.com

Cowgirl Boss

Build Your COWGIRL Boss Planner Build your planner to fit your life! Order it printed or download and print it yourself. Made and organized for the busy cowgirl

D

o you enjoy making plans for your days but find that the planners available on the market don’t fulfill all of your requirements?

My research has led me to create a planner that can be downloaded or printed in PDF format for business owners and cowgirls.

Finally, a planner with parts you can customize to fit your specific business or way of life! For instance, if you run a boutique and would prefer a dedicated area in your planner for business purposes, this is it! If you need help with your ranch, fitness, horsemanship and com-

32 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

petition, this planner has it and a section to assist with your social media posts, and even a blog section.

We’ve got you covered and if there is something you need that we don’t have, email us your ideas and we will create it!

Our Rodeo Rose Faux Leather cover is the perfect holder for your disc printed planner. Adjust it how you will and include those things that will keep your life better organized and productive.

The perfect Christmas gift to get you going for the New Year!

Below are a few of our special planner packages...

• Ranch • Fitness • Social Media • Business

Order Yours!

Find the special section that you need for your planner and you can either download them below or order the already printed pages!

If you order the already printed pages, you can also include the pdf option so that you never run out of pages and never have to buy another planner again!

A very affordable and comprehensive way to get organized!

shop.cowgirlboss.com

cowgirl boss showcase

By: Susan Gentry

Ag Women connect

We go behind the scenes of Ag Women Connect, and find their mission to empower, support, connect, and grow women in agriculture a revitalizing concept CIS Magazine: What is your goal with the AWC organization?

to the world. One of our biggest goals aside from building each other up, is recognizing and giving our ag industry a voice when it comes to fighting Ag Women Connect: To be the nation’s largest against real ag issues and how we can educate othplatform for women in agriculture to gather infor- ers about what is going on behind the scenes. We mation, resources, and truth on how we can make can make a difference together by being great story a difference in agriculture and educate others about tellers and bridging the disconnect of those who are our industry. AWC is and will unfamiliar with agriculture. always be a christian comWe have our AWC Foundapany where women can feel tion 501c3 that specifically safe and supported in their gives back to our youth, endeavors.. people who have faced unforeseen circumstances and natural disasters and to the CIS: What inspired you to production costs of tellstart Ag Women Connect ing these crucial and much and the associated podcast? needed stories.

AWC: Being a good obThe Ag Women Connect server and listener to peoFoundation has three ple’s needs and voices. I pillars to their mission: started this company because it was what God put in First, is to give to those my heart to do. My story is who have been impacted very faith- based. I believe by those unforeseen trageverything I have overcome edies through donations, and preserved through- led grants, and old-fashioned me to my purpose in life. “good neighbor” support.

And that purpose is to lead Second, we have also deswomen in agriculture and ignated a scholarship to Founder and CEO of AWC, Vanessa Wood help them become the best versupport young adults seeking a future sions of themselves, personally in agriculture. and professionally. Through the relationships and Third, we continue to tell and broadcast the real connections that we are constantly building, AWC stories of women making changes and impact as has grown into something much more than just a well as the real ag issues our farmers and ranchnetworking group. We are a family of faith, and truth ers are facing day in and day out . This allows us that believes and supports our farmers and ranchers to bridge the gap between the people who don’t across the nation and world. We take pride in the understand agriculture and the people who sacrifice values, morals, and decency that agriculture gives everyday to live this lifestyle to provide for others.

34 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

The Ag Women Connect Podcast

HOW TO LISTEN:

“Ag Talk, Your Story Matters” is America’s Platform for Women in Agriculture to share their thoughts, ideas and stories! This is a safe space for everyone in agriculture, no matter what their role is, to come together and have real and raw conversations with each other! We feature our AWC members, guest speakers, and current topics across the nation that affect our agriculture industry. Our goal is to include others into our discussions. We invite YOU to be a part of our conversation every week.

The great thing about our podcast is that everyone is invited to be a part of the conversation. We hop on a zoom every Thursday at noon CST to interview our guests and the whole AWC network is invited to listen and ask questions. It makes it very intriguing and interactional! We then take that interview and have it aired on Rural Radio XM 147 10:00 eastern on Saturdays.

The Ag Women Connect Foundation has been founded on the teachings of Christ as given to us in 1 Peter 4:8-11 & John 13:34-35, to love one another and be a strong community, for we are all in this together.

You can find us on all social media platforms and our website at agwomenconnect.com We can’t wait to hear your Ag Story!

A Few Photos Of What Ag Women Connect Are All About...

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 35

Stable Life

Calming An Unruly Horse By: Susan Gentry

An unruly horse can be wearing on the best of us. Don’t settle for a bad behaved horse. Here are 10 tips that can help calm and control a horse that decides to have a bad day.

D

ealing with an unruly horse can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and proper techniques, you can calm them down and regain control. Here are some steps to help

3. Stay calm and confident: Horses can sense fear and anxiety, so it’s crucial to remain calm and project confidence. Take deep breaths, relax your body, and maintain a positive mindset throughout the process. Remaining calm and composed can avoid escalating the situation.

1. Assess the situation: Before approaching the horse, take a moment to observe their behavior.

Determine if their behavior is due to fear, discomfort, or spookiness. Understanding the underlying cause will help you tailor your approach.

4.Groundwork: Engage in groundwork exercises to establish respect and obedience, such as lunging and desensitization.

you:

5. Use a Lead Rope: If necessary, use a lead rope to maintain some control while working with the 2. Establish trust and respect: Spend horse. time bonding with the horse in a safe and controlled environment. Developing trust and respect will lay 6. Use consistent cues and body lanthe foundation for better control. Establishing a guage: Horses respond well to clear and consisbond based on trust and respect is crucial. Spend tent cues. Establish your boundaries and reinforce time grooming, petting, and talking to the horse to these cues so that the horse gets used to them and responds approprietly. build a positive association.

36 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

7. Professional Help: If the horse’s behavior is dangerous or beyond your expertise, be sure to seek help from a professional trainer.

8. Speak softly, move slowly: Use soothing gestures. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises that might spook the horse.

9. Physically check the horse: Call your vet and include a throrough physical of the horse to make sure they are healthy and on the up and up if you have concerns that it may be something physical that is causing the problems.

“Horses can sense fear and anxiety, so it’s crucial to remain calm and project confidence.”

Difficult horses are frequently misunderstood, much like children who develop reactive behav10. Wear Safety Gear: It is wise to wear appro- iors in response to traumatic experiences. These priate safety gear when working with a known unruly horses often display oppositional behaviors, defihorse. For example, a helmet and sturdy footwear are antly reacting in challenging ways. wise options.

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Bag Feature

What’s In Our Bag AMERICAN WEST

Mohave Canyon Large Zip-Top Tote www.americanwest.cc My Official NFR Handbag

Every year I love to find a great bag for the NFR! This one has it all!

This is what is in my bag!

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Cowgirl Boss Planner Christmas Romance Cell Phone Cell Phone Bank Binoculars Lotion Makeup Bag Vaseline Car Keys Built Bar Pen Hand Sanitizer Business Cards This bag has room for it all and this is our choice for the NFR! (cont’d)

40 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2019/January 2020 38| Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

AMERICAN WEST

Mohave Canyon Large Zip-Top Tote

100% genuine full grain leather Hand-stained with soft tumbled leather fringe Zipper closure Back slip cell phone pocket 100% cotton lining with 1 interior zipper pocket and 2 interior open pouches Shoulder straps 11” drop Dimensions: 13.5 x 12 x 5”

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 39

Photo: Leah Hennel

Jessica Steen By: Susan Gentry Photos: Courtesy of CBC / Heartland Leah Hennel

Jessica Steen is widely recognized for her celebrated portrayal of Lisa, the beloved matriarch of the family in Heartland. she boasts an extensive filmography that transcends beyond this role. As Jack Bartlett’s (played by Shaun Johnston) loving wife on screen, Lisa has emerged as a fan-favorite character among viewers who relish this heartwarming drama.

B

orn and raised in Toronto, Jessica Steen gained recognition for her roles in the series CAPTAIN POWER AND THE SOLDIERS OF THE FUTURE as well as the feature Sing for Columbia TriStar. This success prompted a move to New York and eventually led her to relocate again, this time to Los Angeles in 1991 following a fill-in stint on ABC’s LOVING, to become part of the network’s highly-regarded post-World War II television series, HOMEFRONT. Returning to Los Angeles after a year in Santa Fe, New Mexico on the NBC series EARTH 2, where she played Dr. Julia Heller, she starred in Trial & Error with Jeff Daniels, Michael Richards and Charlize Theron. Armageddon with Bruce Willis and Ben Affleck, while landing recurring roles as Special Agent Paula Cassidy on NCIS, Donna Sabine in 11 episodes of FLASHPOINT and finally as Lisa Stillman for 17 seasons of HEARTLAND. Jessica can also be seen in the Netflix series MAID and starring in the Spotify comedy series STREAM QUEEN. Photo: Courtesy of CBC / Heartland

Cowgirls In Style Magazine: We have loved watching you in your roles in both film and television over the years. Heartland is one of our very favorite television series and we love your role as ‘Lisa.’ What are some of the ways you relate to her character in your own life?

never judge a character by their “breakdown” on the casting callout.

CIS: The cast of Heartland seem to be close on screen.

Do you do things together off screen as well?

Jessica Steen: Thanks so much for watching & supporting us! We are still “Heartlanding” because of you!

Lisa has elements/characteristics of beloved family members & family friends of mine with whom I relate closely, but her life choices & circumstances have at times been very close to mine also.

Choosing to not have children & being away for work a lot, being a Godparent, etc. Art has imitated life many times for a lot of the cast!

CIS: Have you been around horses before the series? If you could tell us a little background of that or if this is your first experience working with horses?

J.S.: My Dad had a farm when I was a kid…we had horses & I had ridden before Heartland came along a number of times over the years. That said, I wonder what comes first; horse riding in the writing being the impetus for riding lessons, or riding lessons inspiring more horse time in the writing for Lisa.

I’m thinking next year I’ll pay for some lessons and hope they pay off on the page.

Courtesy of CBC / Heartland

CIS: Heartland is filmed in Canada where you were born and raised. Do you live close to the set of Heartland or do you have a temporary home close to set and have a permanent home elsewhere?

J.S.: I’m definitely a moving target. I road trip around Canada & the US a lot. I bring all my essentials & set up camp in various cities all year long.

I have many homes.

CIS: How did the role of Lisa come about? Had you been a Heartland fan prior to getting the role?

J.S.: Season one episode three was the first time Lisa met Jack… Initially I auditioned to play Maggie, the owner of the feed store, but then was asked to read for Lisa. Although I thought of myself as a little rough around the edges to play a Lisa Stillman type here we are 17 years later. Goes to show; 42 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2022

Cour

tesy o

f CBC

/ Hea

rtlan

d

J.S.: You are right - we are! Since the very beginning the cast & crew have play dated after school often and met up in different cities and hosted each other and always kept in touch between seasons.

CIS: We love Lisa’s sense of style on the show. We do notice your bracelets and cuffs. Do you select your own wardrobe or is that selected for you?

J.S: Ha! You noticed the bracelets!! They are to cover a tattoo so I don’t take up extra time in make-up having to cover it.

Lisa’s style is evolving as a result of her traveling the race circuit with that posh bunch but that came as a way to explain a wardrobe direction change that was initiated as a result of the Jessica character moving to the Ranch.

CIS: When filming, are you on the set daily, or are you called in only on certain days?

J.S.:: I work on the show approximately 20% of the time.

So I worked 20 days for 5 episodes for season 17. I would happily be there more if Lisa was, believe you me.

Courtesy of CBC / Heartland

Courtesy of CBC / Heartland

CIS: Do you have any say in the script or do you help write the story line of Heartland?

CIS: Out of all of your years of acting, do you have a favorite series or movie that you were in?

J.S.: In an effort to “be there more” I came up with a bunch of story line ideas for Lisa for season 17.

Thankfully one idea melded well with what the writers were planning. Mark Haroun is a wonderful head writer & is so thoughtful and collaborative.

J.S.: I love laughing. Any time I get to work on material that is fun, makes me laugh, allows me to work with people who are funny… Those are my favourite.

CIS: Heartland has been such a popular, family oriented series, and is one of the longest running television series to date. Does it inhibit you from accepting other roles in various entertainment or can you work your schedule around that?

CIS: Thank you so much for your time and we hope Heartland continues for many years to come!

J.S.:Shooting schedules for any production are complex with so many moving parts and Heartland is no exception. As a result we “day players” rarely are able to get a sense of when we are working in enough time to secure other projects. Any other work or plans of any kind must be totally flexible or happen between seasons.

“

J.S.: Favourite is hard to say, but the top 3 things I fully appreciate are: the people I work with, the city of Calgary & the beauty of Alberta & the family based material.

Thanks so much for watching & supporting us!

We are still “Heartlanding” -Jessica Steen

“

CIS: What has been your favorite part of co-staring in Heartland?

J.S.: Thank you very much for inviting me to be here, and me too!!

How To Watch:

urtes

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Photo

BC y of C

44 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

rtland

/ Hea

Heartland Season 17: CBC and CBC Gem in Canada as well as all previous seasons.

Heartland Season 16: UP Faith & Family in the United States as well as previous seasons.

Photos: Courtesy of CBC / Heartland

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 45

46 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

Courtesy of CBC / Heartland

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 47

NFR Look

NFR FASHION

what to WEAR...

Cowgirl Tuff Trucker Cap. Champagne Shimmer with Black Embroidery www.cowgirltuff.com

Pullover Button Up (Black And Leopard Lightweight Metallic Jersey With Western Detailing) www.cowgirltuff.com

Black Leather Belt with Rhinestone Studded Arrows and Antique Silver Hardware www.cowgirltuff.com

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NFR Look

NFR FASHION RODEO WEAR Don’t Fence Me In Dark Wash Jean www.cowgirltuff.com

TwistedX 13” HOOEY BOOT www.twistedx.com

Annie’s Secret Zip-Top Tote w/ Conceal Carry Pocket www.americanwest.cc

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NFR Look

NFR FASHION

what to WEAR...

TERLINGUA Discover luxurious comfort in the Terlingua bootie by Black Star Boots. blackstarboots.com

Women’s Blanket Stripe Sweater Knit Duster - Cream cinchjeans.com

Salty Sallys

Twilight Teal matte finish boots

by Ferrini ferriniusa.com

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Stagecoach Wooly With Multi Colored Acid Wash Back & Buckstitched Trim. Tooled Adjustable Strap With Turquoise Floral & Iridescent Stones www.salty-sallys.com

NFR SHOPPING CHeck out These NFR Booths Beddy’s Booth #34022 Boot Barn Dept. Booth Rhinestones N’ Rowhide Boutique Booth #2807 Rhinestones N’ Rodeo Booth #22501 Samsville Booth #1821 Stetson Dept. Booth Texas Rose Boutique Booth #22825 TwistedX NA Before Print

(Find TwistedX, Black Star Boots at Archundi, Boot Barn, SK Brizile booths. TwistedX is also at Cavenders, RM Tack and Western Edge booths)

Red Dirt Hat Co. Booth #31032 Stetson Dept. Booth

Atsagas Furs and Leather Booth #397 Glitter Flops Booth #513 Relic Sun Booth #826 Salty Sally’s Booth #924 Stetson Dept Booth

www.cowgirlfit.com www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 51

Pageantry

KennADEE RIGGS Miss Rodeo America 2023

Photo: Art of Aperture

CIS Q’s & A’s By: Susan Gentry Photos: Art of Aperture

Cowgirls In Style: The year has flown by since January when we first interviewed you as the newly crowned Miss Rodeo America 2023. What are your feelings right now as you look back on the year?

Kennadee Riggs: I am floored by how quickly the time has flown by! The greatest sense of emotion I feel as I reflect on my year is gratitude. This entire experience has been a gift from God, I truly believe that. It is bittersweet to watch special chapters of life like this near their closing... but exciting all at the same time because I now have the chance to take these connections and lessons into the next chapter of life too. The Lord has used this experience to teach and show me things that I now can’t even imagine life without.

CIS: I know it might be hard to choose, but can you pick two experiences as Miss Rodeo America over the past year that have been your favorite and why?

KR: I could never choose a true favorite experience from my reign. Although, one in particular that I wish I could relive over and over again is my trip to Barretos, Brazil! I took my mom, dad, and little sister with me to one of the largest rodeos in the world. Brazil has always played a special part in my family relationships, especially since living there as a missionary. Being a part of that rodeo with my family, reflecting on my faith, and celebrating Brazil while representing America... it was just the perfect compilation of all of the closest things to my heart. Another special experience this year was being at the Reno Rodeo where some of my generational rodeo roots began. Family from all over came into town to celebrate our heritage with me and I wore the same shirt that my great grandmother wore when she was their rodeo queen in 1950. This year has constantly tugged at my heart strings!

CIS: You served an 18 month mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Brazil prior to being crowned.

How did that experience develop you and help you in your role as Miss Rodeo America?

KR: For me, the chance to serve as a full-time missionary for a year and a half was the greatest preparation I could have been given to become Miss Rodeo America. It was then that I learned what true joy feels like when one sacrifices to serve others for a greater cause. I also learned how to share the things of my heart with strangers, even if they didn’t agree with my views. That has come in so handy while representing the western industry! I had left for my mission right out of high school so that was my first experience being away from home...

(Continued...)

While the world preaches a culture of putting ourselves first, it is important to spread the message that selfless service and prioritizing our faith are what actually create the truest form of joy and success. The Lord can make much more of us than we can make of ourselves.

-Kennadee Riggs Miss Rodeo America 2023

but I realized that we can feel at home anywhere in the world by staying close to our faith and making friendships through kindness. My reign as Miss Rodeo Arizona 2022 and now Miss Rodeo America 2023 have seemed like the perfect extensions of my mission. I know more than ever that there is always purpose in God’s timing and sequence.

CIS: You chose “Kicking Up Kindness” as your platform as Miss Rodeo America which has resonated with so many not only in the western industry, but nation this past year. How did you come up with that theme?

your eyes out for me, I won’t be going far!

CIS: What advice would you give that young girl who looks to you as an example of what she wants to become? How did you achieve your dreams?

KR: I was once in the little boots that many young girls are wearing right now, looking up to rodeo queens and wanting to be in their place! The greatest advice I could give not just them, but anyone for that matter, is to focus on what matters most. If we work toward our goals while putting the truly important things first, everything will always fall into place. Faith, family, kindness and service, are all things that led me to the most beautiful life path as I have tried to prioritize them.

This has helped me to reach goals I set as a little girl, but also feel peace when my path turned out differently than I had planned. While the world preaches a culture of putting ourselves first it is important to spread the message that selfless service and prioritizing our faith are what actually create the truest form of joy and success. The Lord can make much more of us than we can make of ourselves.

KR:I chose to use ‘Kicking Up Kindness’ as my platform both this year and last. I can’t take credit for creating it, though! It originally began with my grandmother and mom in the 1990s. Each of the women in my family between then and now had adopted the Kicking Up Kindness initiative through their own rodeo queen reigns.

Now in 2023 I have unprecedented opportunities to share it with the world! I share kind deeds and stories on my podcast, The Kindness Photo: Art of Aperture Journal, and social media. The Cowboy and Cowgirl Channels have began to feature some of my kindness interviews on weekly segments too. The western lifestyle has a unique sense of camaraderie that the world is hungry CIS Magazine thanks Kennadee for this past for now more than ever. Truly, it’s the light of Christ year! She has made a significant contribution that shines in the kindness of so many people around to the professional rodeo industry, establishing us. That is what I love to share. herself as a leader and queen that we will not CIS: What are your plans once your reign is over?

KR: It will be hard to say goodbye to such a developmental and special experience, but I have some wonderful things to look forward to in the next chapter of life too. I am excited to use my scholarship money and finish school while working in the western industry. I will be using my Portuguese quite a bit... so keep 54 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

forget!

*You can find Kennadee at the 2024 Miss Rodeo America Pageant December 2-10th in Las Vegas at the South Point Casino & Spa. Find more information and the schedule of events on the Miss Rodeo America website at www.missrodeoamerica.com

Photo: Art of Aperture Red pantsuit is a Nudie Cohn design from the 1940’s

Photo: Art of Aperture Outfit was Kennadee’s great grandmother’s as the 1950 Reno Rodeo Queen

Photo: Art of Aperture Teal pantsuit is Kenadee’s great grandmother’s as the 1950 Reno Rodeo Queen

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The Miss Rodeo America Pageant will be held at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa Las Vegas, Nevada December 3-10, 2023 Photo: Art of Aperture - Blue pantsuit is a vintage from a family collection

56 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

Photo: Art of Aperture

Gift Ideas

Gift Ideas For FAMILY FOR

Maverick Luxe Blanket The Maverick Blanket is a playful western scene printed with a bucking broncos and wrangling cowboys. Doublesided with the softest 100% cotton on one side, and brown corduroy minky on the other. www.beddys.com

LANE FROST WOMEN’S LEGENDARY FOR HER PERFUMe Smell like a championship-caliber cowgirl with the #1 scent in rodeo. $40.00 lanefrost.com

58 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

FRIENDS, & The Holidays

Gift Ideas

Cowgirl Boss Planner Build your planner to fit your busy life! shop.cowgirlboss.com

Barrel Racer Cuff Bracelet Cowgirl Up! Barrel Racer cuff bracelet. In pewter, hand cast and polished to a brilliant finish $44.95 shop.cowgirlsinstyle.com

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 59

Gift Ideas

Gift Ideas For Loved Ones

Packer Drop Point WT Knife lovers! Horns for Heroes introduces the Packer Drop Point with Turquoise. Perfect for Hunters, Cowboys and Bikers. bonedaddy-knives.com

1903 40oz Tumbler The gorgeous western 40oz tumbler!

Hand drawn design Comes with a straw or flip the top of the lid for sipping! therusticc.com

60 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

Friends, and Yourself!

Gift Ideas

Christmas Flip Flops Glitterflops® are orthopedic flip flops with custom hand-placed Austrian crystal designs. Each shoe is specially designed with a 1/2” Orthofoam molded sole that cradles your feet and provides a natural fit and arch support. The saddle leather and polyester provide a strap with no irritation to your toes. glitterflops.com

Jewlery Case / Carved Floral BEAUTIFUL Carved Leather with red background with black,brown & white Spotted hair on hide! salty-sallys.com

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 61

Rodeo Runway with

COWGIRL BOSS

The Cowgirl Boss Brand is the brand of the casual cowgirl that prefers comfort while making a statement.

The Cowgirl Boss Brand is a voice for the cowgirl...

Find More at: shop.cowgirlsinstyle.com 62 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

The Cowgirl Boss Brand is the brand of the casual cowgirl that prefers comfort while making a statement.

The Cowgirl Boss Brand is a voice for the cowgirl...

Find More at: shop.cowgirlsinstyle.com

www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 63

64 | Cowgirls In Style | December 2023

The Cowgirl Boss Brand is the brand of the casual cowgirl that prefers comfort while making a statement.

The Cowgirl Boss Brand is a voice for the cowgirl...

Find More at: shop.cowgirlsinstyle.com www.cowgirlsinstyle.com | 65

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