Organizers announced today that Tim McGraw’s Swampstock 2008 has been postponed until next year due to the effects of Hurricane Gustav on the state of Louisiana. The Rayville area has experienced over 20 inches of rain over the last few days as the state has been declared a disaster area by government officials and critical resources are being directed towards relief efforts. “It’s more important for the community to focus on the clean up efforts than putting on a concert right now,” said representatives of Neighbor’s Keeper Foundation (NKF), who were the presenters of this year’s Swampstock. “So many people in that area have been affected by the Hurricane or have relatives who have been affected and we don’t want to detract from the process.” “We have spoken with local officials and Neighbor’s Keeper Foundation wants to lend its support to those relief efforts,” said McGraw. “Although Faith and I are personally disappointed, we understand that the priority is people’s homes and livelihood in this challenging time. Our prayers are with our friends and neighbors and God bless them.” NKF’s funding for the ongoing programs in the gulf coast region include commitments for the Community Initiatives Foundation, www.katrinaexhibit.org, in Louisiana and continuing support to the Children's Health Fund, www.childrenshealthfund.org, in the state of Mississippi. NKF’s commitment in Rayville, Louisiana, where Swampstock was to take place, is a $50,000 donation to Habitat for Humanity of Ouachita for restoring the Rayville community recreation facility. Fans who have purchased tickets should return to that same location for a refund during normal business hours starting Monday, Sept. 8.
