Hope on the range

The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a nationwide, nonprofit health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Founded in 1913 by a group of doctors and business leaders in New York City, it has grown into one of the largest and most influential cancer organizations in the world.

ACS is working to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. They are the largest private, not-for-profit funder of cancer research in the United States, investing more than $5 billion since 1946. According to the ACS, more than 1.5 million lives have been saved in the country in the past two decades and now it’s time to celebrate.

Scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Beaumont Civic Center, the American Cancer Society’s 2025 Southeast Texas Chevy Dealers Cattle Baron’s Ball promises to be a toe-tapping, knee-slapping good time as patrons give back to the community and the ACS.

Chaired by Robert (Port Arthur ISD) and Mary Ann Reid (Golden Pass LNG), this one-of-a-kind evening features a mouth-watering menu, refreshing drinks, dancing, pig racing, auctions at all price points, chance drawings, and so much more.

Headlining the stage are country music icons Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan. The two Grand Ole Opry stars first teamed in 2013 then embarked on a joint tour that sold out every appearance in its initial two-year run. The stars continue to perform their collaborative “Grits & Glamour” shows. The women connected as working mothers, businesswomen, and second-generation performers. They share an understanding, and a finely honed, if occasionally bawdy, sense of humor.

Sponsorships and tickets to this “party with a purpose” can be purchased online at setxcattlebaronsball.com. VIP doors open at 6 p.m. followed by a 7 p.m. general admission entry.

“The funds raised fund life-saving research as well as free services,” said Kathy Chessher, senior community development manager. “ACS helps provide services after a patient has received a cancer diagnosis, such as transportation to treatment, lodgings and our 24-hour call center (800-227-2345) – which is a resource that is available day or night.”

The Southeast Texas Chevy Dealers Cattle Baron’s Ball has a legacy for raising awareness and funding to fight every cancer for every life. And our incredible community has always stood proud to meet the challenge for the cause – coming together and raising funds during the most challenging of times.

This year, the committee has set an ambitious goal to raise a minimum of $100,000 in restricted gifts. The term “restricted” means these gifts will be 100% earmarked for the donor’s preference of opportunities.

“Funds raised also help aid research,” she said. “This is how we are going to find cutting edge treatment for cancers.”

Because of donations from the 2024 event, ACS continues to support the local cancer center with transportation and lodging grants, as well as the Houston Hope Lodge.

“No cancer patient should ever have to face barriers during treatment,” said Chessher. “Together, we celebrate the 23% decline in cancer deaths and the 1.8 million lives saved, but we still know there is much more that we can do.

Cancer patients still need our support, and we are asking you to consider making a 100% tax deductible mission gift either at the event or in advance. Your attendance at the Ball is not required for you to give to this meaningful cause.”

For the past 30 years, the ball has also honored those who make strides and work closely with the American Cancer Society, and this year’s honoree is the Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas Regional Cancer Network.

Baptist Cancer Network is committed to providing state-of-the-art technology and excellence in patient care. Physicians with an extremely experienced care team work together to design individual treatment plans based on the type, stage and aggressiveness of the cancer.

“Baptist Cancer Network is a longtime supporter of the ball and partner of ACS,” said Chessher. “They are also recipients of local grants. They then take those funds and help with transportation and lodging when patients are coming out of town for treatment.”

Grab your hat and dust off your boots for what promises to be a rip-roaring, kick up your heels good time to make a measurable difference in the fight against cancer.

“Your commitment will help fuel this important fight to support cancer patients,” said Chessher. “On behalf of the Southeast Texas Chevy Dealers Cattle Baron’s Ball committee and the American Cancer Society, we thank you for your continued support of this mission that will forever be close our hearts.”