Mountain Mayhem: Cowboy Up Carbondale
Mountain Mayhem











Downtown Carbondale’s Fourth Street Plaza played host to the 12th annual Cowboy Up benefit on Friday, Aug. 27. Guests could sign up for a VIP table or pay a nominal general admission charge to take part in the community-centric event, making it accessible to a wide range of people. Most arrived in their finest Western attire with cowboy boots and hats, getting into the spirit. Each year, Cowboy Up benefits a different cause and this year’s beneficiary was Carbondale’s own Smiling Goat Ranch. Over the years, they’ve helped raise several thousands of dollars for each of the chosen non-profits, which are selected by the board of directors through an application process. Recent recipients include Ascendigo Autism Services and Patrick’s Place Drop-In Center. Smiling Goat Ranch was chosen this year for its mission to use horses to help humans heal while not charging families for their services.
The family-friendly fund-raiser featured live music from Southside Highway, live and silent auctions, a mechanical bull from Tim Nieslanik, wagon rides and cocktail hour with Smiling Goat’s adorable mini horses Wendy and Tinkerbelle. Slow Groovin’ BBQ served family-style meals at the VIP tables while Gerb’s Grub food truck whipped up dinner for the general admission attendees, which made everyone well fed and happy!
Here’s how to cut down your own Holiday Tree
If you are feeling a bit more adventurous or strapped for cash this year, cutting down a holiday tree might be the way to go.