Under the charming glow of string lights and a rustic barn at Texas Rose Horse Park, the 37th annual Tyler Cattle Baron’s Ball transformed into a heartwarming celebration of hope, community, and the fight against cancer.
Organized to raise essential funds and awareness, this year’s event resonated with the spirit of East Texans who gathered in droves to show their support for the American Cancer Society.
Melissa Ivey, senior development manager for the organization, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming turnout.
“The generosity is huge,” she remarked. “We sold out on tickets, we sold out on tables, and people were ready to come out and have a good time and support the American Cancer Society.”
Co-chairs Whitney Cain and Kimberly Taylor, both seasoned leaders in the Cattle Baron’s Ball, played pivotal roles in bringing the event to life.
“We’re just here to support Melissa in making the whole Cattle Baron’s come to life,” Taylor stated.
She highlighted the importance of a strong committee, acknowledging that without dedicated teamwork, executing such a large-scale event would be challenging.
The night was themed “Stars Over Texas,” a tribute to local pride and community spirit, which resonated throughout the barn.
Cain explained, “This year we chose Stars Over Texas to really showcase our pride in being Texas citizens.
We just really love the way that Texans come together to really support and bring awareness to cancer.”
Taylor’s involvement in the event has been deeply personal.
Having lost her mother to cancer three years ago, she expressed a desire to contribute to the fight against the disease.
“It really impacted me and made me want to give back,” she shared. “So, I plan to stay as long as I can.”
The funds raised from the night are crucial for the American Cancer Society’s ongoing efforts, which include patient transportation services, lodging grant programs, and breast cancer research.
Taylor reflected on the pervasive impact of cancer, saying, “So many people are impacted by cancer.
It’s just heartbreaking. I want there to be a cure one day.”
Set with a fundraising goal of $600,000 for 2024, the final totals from the event were still pending as organizers took time to verify the contributions from live and silent auctions, as well as the raffle drawings.
The event commenced with the recognition of the Champions of Hope — community leaders and cancer survivors who significantly support the American Cancer Society’s mission.
With an initial goal of raising $50,000, this esteemed group surpassed expectations, bringing in over $60,000, with Tessie Cain receiving the honor of Champion of Hope Baron of the Year for her fundraising efforts.
As the evening progressed, KLTV anchor Blake Holland emceed the event, guiding guests through the program, while fast-talking auctioneer Smith County Pct. 4 Constable Josh Joplin infused energy into the live auction.
Raffle prizes included valuable donations from Susan Robinson Jewelry and a 2025 GMC Canyon AT4 truck, courtesy of Hall Buick GMC.
A paddle raise activity matched a $5,000 gift from Trane Technologies, which had pre-committed this donation in support of breast cancer research.
After a thrilling auction segment, country music highlighted the evening’s entertainment, featuring a performance by Wade Bowen followed by Jason Waldon and The Alibis, keeping attendees engaged until the event’s conclusion.
“It’s always just a fun time,” Cain stated, summarizing the collective experience that night.
“It’s a great cause, and the people not only come to have a good time but really show what generosity that is East Texas.”
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