Cattle Barons’ Gala Held at Rio Neches Ranch

TYLER — It was another big night as Tyler held its 27th annual Cattle Barons’ Gala Saturday at Rio Neches Ranch. The event is the largest local fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, typically bringing in some $500,000 annually — and co-chair Brian Merritt told KTBB this year should be no exception. Merritt said, “This is the culmination of a lot of hard work throughout the last year and people giving out of their pockets, their time, their energy to fight cancer, to fund research, and to help those that are battling cancer — and we’re out here celebrating all that hard work.” Merritt emphasized that the anti-cancer effort never stops. He added, “Year round, research is done, work is done to help find a cure — and this is just one night to celebrate all that hard work.”

As the many attendees rallied for their cause, there was plenty of time for fun and fellowship. The crowd enjoyed visiting with friends, dinner, dancing, gaming, silent and live auctions, midway games, and live entertainment featuring headliner Joe Nichols. The fundraising tally for the big event will be announced later in the year.