We typically associate the first of April as a day to play tricks on people in the spirit of April Fools’ Day, but this last April 1st was anything but a trick. The day ushered in both warm temperatures and an air of generosity, respect, and community spirit. It was a gesture made possible by the Spokane County Cattlemen who donated 300 pounds of beef to the Spokane Veterans Home.
Jim Wentland, the President of the Spokane County Cattlemen, shared the backstory and sentiments behind this remarkable donation. As Wentland recounted their decision, it was clear this was more than a simple act of giving—it was a story of gratitude, reflection, and community stewardship.
“The idea came to us during one of our members’ meetings. We were discussing how we could give back to the community that has supported us for so long,” Jim explained, his eyes lighting up with the warmth of the tale. “We instantly thought of our veterans. These men and women have given so much for us; providing some of the bounty of our labor seemed only fitting.”
It’s not every day you come across a story woven with such genuine intentions. The Spokane County Cattlemen, known for their dedication to sustainable farming and local stewardship, view this donation as an extension of their commitment to nourishing the community that holds them up.
The Spokane County Cattlemen’s group has been around since the early 1950’s and currently is made up of about 60 members. “We have a lot of people who join so that they know where their beef comes from.” Wentland explains that he himself has been in the group since the late 1970’s and has served as President of the group for the last eighteen years.
There was a time that the Spokane County Cattlemen where a part of a larger state association, but when a virus was found on a diary farm in 2003, the Spokane County Cattlemen decided to split and form their own group. “We keep up to date on what’s going on in the beef industry and inform our members of what’s going on and what we need to do,” and in addition to helping farmers, Wentland shares that a large part of their program is supporting the next generation of young men and women livestock raisers.
“We support youth in our organization. They pay a small membership fee to have a ‘dog in the fight’. And then we reward them heavily at the end of their project year.” Wentland says that at the next Junior Livestock Show in May at the Spokane County Fairgrounds, the Spokane County Cattlemen will have a display and talk with all the kids that come through for the event; he estimates they’ll talk to 1,200 kids in two days based on previous years.
Wentland was at the event to help deliver the donation and was able to witness the joy and gratitude from the residents at the Spokane Veterans Home. Boxes were unloaded from the fresh-off-the-farm working truck and placed on a rolling cart. The beef will be used in special burgers this upcoming spring and summer to grill and other special meals made by Neal Salemi, the dietary manager at the veteran’s home.
This beautiful act of kindness has ripple effects beyond the warm meals it will create. It serves as a testament to the power of community, the importance of giving back, and the unspoken bonds that connect each of us. The Spokane County Cattlemen’s Association has indeed set a table where the values of respect, appreciation, and unity are served generously.
Wentland reached out to Russ Emtman, a fellow Spokane County Cattlemen member and owner of Emtman’s Triple E Angus Ranch in Valleyford Washington, for the opportunity to donate the steer that would be processed for the veterans. “We felt like it was something that we needed to do,” Emtman recalls of the decision to help. “It is our first year donating for this event.”
“All 300 pounds were harvested from just one animal. It was a USA born, bred, and raised cow, through and through. Nothing but the best for our vets!” Emtman proudly explains, “This is something that we, my wife and I, wanted to do for the vets to show our thanks! We were honored to have Jim ask us to assist with it.”
It’s important to remember how impactful local organizations and individuals can be when they come together for a common cause. This story isn’t just about beef; but the countless ways we can give back, each day, to those who have served our community and country.
“Well, I come from a veteran family. I spent some time in the army myself. These people took care of us, protected us, and they need our help and that’s what we’re here for.” Wentland assures that he’ll continue this tradition as long as possible.
The Spokane County Cattlemen are involved with a number of local non-profits across the county and have a presence at the Spokane County Interstate Fair every year. Follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/spokanecattlemen. Wentland encourages anyone who is interested in beef that the cattlemen raise to reach out at 509-995-6558 or at jim_2jlivestock@yahoo.com for more information.
