Magazine Explores Cowboy Connection

June 2004 -- Capping an eventful decade of the cowboy lifestyle, American Cowboy magazine released its 10th Anniversary Collector's Edition in May.

With a cover story on Clint Black and a travelogue of the Rocky Mountain states, the issue runs the gamut of the cowboy lifestyle, carrying features on Touchstone Pictures' release "The Alamo," the mysterious death of Davy Crockett and the evolution of the Bowie knife. But perhaps most significantly, the magazine asks all of America, "Why does America need the cowboy?"

"We are asking the question as a way of getting people to reflect on the significance of the cowboy, not just as the worldwide symbol of American courage and 'can do' attitude, but as a way for Americans themselves to reconnect with American ideals and American identity," says Jesse Mullins, Jr., editor.

Besides offering its own musings on why America needs the cowboy, the magazine solicits the public's feedback, gathering comments on a special Web site. Anyone is free to log onto http://why.cowboy.com and post a reply, or just read the statements.

"The statements are not just insightful or informative," Mullins says. "Many of them are downright inspiring."

Future editions will share more of the public's response and will explore yet more angles on this timely theme. American Cowboy will continue to celebrate its 10th anniversary through the next 12 months with special features.

The 10th Anniversary special edition went on sale May 4. Subscription information can be found by visiting www.cowboy.com or by calling (800) 297-6933.

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