Wild, Wild West
A fundraiser that is not your typical black tie wine-and-dine has finally reached the Ozarks. Originating in Texas 35 years ago, the American Cancer
Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball has its first run in Springfield on August 22 at the William H. Darr Agricultural Center.
Rather than the bow ties and little black dresses common to most charity balls, the Cattle Baron’s Ball is laid-back and fun, says Chairman Kim Inman. About 1,500 western-clad guests are expected to attend and have a blast riding a mechanical bull, playing in Texas hold ’em and blackjack tournaments and jumping around in a cash cube to grab at cash and gift certificates. Even the decorations call for casual attire, with
burlap tablecloths and corner grills for making s’mores.
The 411What: The Cattle Baron’s Ball |
Dinner is a main focus of the ball, with specialty dishes from four local restaurants prepared on-site. Free alcohol is to be available at four custom-designed bars, and the bars are going up for auction later in the night. All liquor and food is being provided by Price Cutter, and local chefs from Rerico, Argentina Steakhouse, Metropolitan Grill, Longhorn Grill and Outback Steak & Oyster Bar will prepare the meals and appetizers.
Three auctions offer donated art, trips, vacation homes, a Budweiser Clydesdale foal, art by local artist Susan Sommer-Luarca (an official artist for the 2008 Beijing Olympics) and a zero-turn radius lawn tractor.
Las Vegas–based band Marshall Reign headlines the event. Inman says the best part of the experience is the way it involves so many in such a rewarding organization. “A lot of the people who are involved have lost someone to cancer,” says Inman.
Volunteers are still needed for auctions, games, the children’s party and more. To get involved, call 417-447-1483 or visit cattlebaronsballswmo.org.
The Five Coolest Things You can Do at the Cattle Baron’s Ball
1. Make s’mores on open-range grills at the indoor arena.
2. Play the wine ring toss and take home a bottle of merlot or pinot grigio.
3. See if you can last a full eight seconds on the mechanical bull.
4. Challenge the town sheriff (or your guest) to a laser tag shoot-out.
5. Take a photo at the green screen booth: It’ll take you wherever you want to go.
