Battleford Cowboy Christmas Parade founder Ray Cox is taking on a new challenge - singing and recording - but his goal is still to support the Battlefords Empty Stocking Fund.
Cox doesn't call himself a great singer or a real cowboy, but he says he loves having the opportunity to experience the lifestyle of both. Though he now lives in Battleford, he was born and raised, and lived all his life until he moved here in 2003,in Asheville, N.C.
"I have to admit, moving here was a very huge move for me but one that I will never regret," Cox says.
"Being here has allowed me to do a few things that ahorseless country boy from North Carolina could only dream about, and that's to taste the cowboy way."
Cox is careful to point out that he is not implying he is a cowboy, but admits he is a cowboy at heart.
Becoming an equine massage therapist is one accomplishment he is especially amazed by.
"How cool is that for a seasoned grocery guy?" he asks.
"Being here and being involved with so many real cowboys has made me appreciate their life even more. You can't get that solely from the movies and TV. I am so grateful for all those who have put up with me while I have beenlearning the cowboy way."
Since Cox has become part of the community, he has started or been involved in many local activities that bring folks together. Of course with an accent like his, most know him well and he is hard to forget. Cox became involved in theBattlefords Quarter Horse Club serving as president and starting a few programs that benefit many children.
"When I came here, one of the things thatamazed me the most, was that there was not a Christmas parade. There wereother parades, but none to celebrate Christmas. I missed that and I wanted to pursue putting one together," Cox says.
He says his involvement with the Quarter Horse Club gave him access to great friends who were willing to support him in the project.
"This year, on Nov. 12 we will be hosting our Fourth Annual Cowboy Christmas Parade. As cowboys and cowgirls participate in the parade, they also raise money for The Battleford's Empty Stocking Fund for those children less fortunate at Christmas."
Cox's new project is another bid to do what he can to help out those in need. He is currently recordinghis firstCD withM-Dawg Music inBattleford and the profits from sales will go to the Battleford's Empty Stocking Fund at the Cowboy Christmas Parade.
"I always sang around camp-fires and such, and for the most part, most folks enjoyed it," Cox explains.
"Over the last few years, I have competed in some of the local talent shows. I won some, lost some, but it wasn't about the winning as much as it was about me stepping out of my comfort zone."
Cox credits his friends for their support and relentless encouragement.
"Relentless in a good way because they believed in me."
Cox says he has accumulated a little fan club and many have asked if producing a CD was in the works.
"Well, my mind started churning and after a year or so, I have decided to take on this project, not for myself, but to use as a fundraising tool for the kids."
Cox says he's going into the project with no expectations and no set goals other than to "put it out there and let it ride."
While not setting any specific goals, Cox admits he's hoping the CD will sell out in a few months.
"I hope y'all will enjoy my first recording effort. If you don't, don't tell me ! Hey, it's for a great cause."
Cox says he has received some financial backing, not only from friends here, but from friends in North Carolina and friends in other states as well.
"Without their support and confidence, I would not have been able to start this project," he says
Though he has raised enough funds to get his endeavour up and running, there will still be some expenses incurred on the reproduction of the CD's. Individuals or businesses interested in being a part of this project can contact Ray at 306-937-4455 or e-mail raycox@sasktel.net
"I would like to personally thank everyone in our communities, both individuals and businesses, who have supported my ideas, and the efforts of the Battlefords Quarter Horse Club these past few years," Cox says.
"We have made a difference, we are making a difference, and with y'alls help, we will continue to make a difference in years to come.
"If all you have is a song, sing it!"
Thanks and God Bless
