Author Walt Barnhart chronicles the remarkable life of one of the beef industry's most enigmatic characters — Kenny Monfort. While many in the industry may remember Monfort, who died in 2001, as a shrewd, tough and smart businessman, this insightful and well-written biography gives a straightforward look at Monfort's past, upbringing and sometimes tumultuous business life. Monfort was a down-to-earth man who was able to connect with people at all levels, a demanding yet generous employer, and using his father's small feedlot near Greeley, CO, the architect of a beef empire that eclipsed $1 billion in sales.

As a writer who worked for Monfort of Colorado in the late 1970s, Barnhart has unique access to information and individuals who knew Monfort best. The result is a fascinating and well-researched look at a man who was responsible, in many ways, for bringing a number of “firsts” to cattle feeding and beef packing.

The book is available for $19.95 at www.bbotw.com, as well as at www.amazon.com and through the websites of major book retail outlets.