Cowboy Christmas Ball Dec. 12 Posted On: Sunday, Oct. 25 2009 01:36 AM By Dirk Aaron
Bell County Extension Agent

The First Cowboy Christmas Ball featuring Michael Martin Murphey is Dec. 12 at the Bell County EXPO Center.

This event is hosted by the Bell County Youth Fair Board of Directors, Bell County Expo Center, and the Texas AgriLife Extension Service – Bell County.

The history of the Cowboys' Christmas Ball started in Anson in 1885. The dance was held annually at the Star Hotel in appreciation of the patronage of ranchers and cowboys. The Anson Cowboys' Christmas Ball is still held annually and has now become a three-day event.

This year, we're bringing the grace of the Old West to Bell County and holding our very own Cowboy Christmas Ball.

Our guest of honor, Michael Martin Murphey, the writer and singer of the same titled song will perform on stage along with other local bands.

Guests are encouraged to dress in formal western wear to keep in tradition and keep with the atmosphere. A silent auction will also be held during the evening; items include western art and western heritage-based items. There will also be hunt trips up for auction, including a youth deer hunt and an adult turkey hunt.

All proceeds will benefit the Bell County Youth Fair Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship Fund. These scholarships are given out each year to FFA, 4-H and FCCLA members who compete at the Bell County Youth Fair. Recipients must meet high levels of educational expectations each year set by the scholarship committee as they attend the school of their choice.

These are 'life-changing' scholarships in the amount of $1,000 per year for a 2- or 4-year college or university. Currently, the Executive Board has funded more than 10 recipients over the last two years at $44,000.

Tickets for the ball will be sold based on table location within the Garth Main Arena floor. There will be four levels of tables based on ticket prices. Each table seats eight people.

The Cattle Baron tables are $1,000 per table and will include special recognition the night of event. The Gold Star tables cost $800 per table and will include table signage. The Silver Spur tables are $600 per table. The Stetson tables are $400 per table. General seating costs $50 per person.

The Bell County Youth Fair and Rodeo Association is a nonprofit organization, thus all ticket sales are donations and are deductible.

Ticket sales will only be available until Dec. 1 and will not be sold on the day of the event.

Call the Texas AgriLife Extension Bell County Office at (254) 933-5305, or stop by the office to buy tickets at 1605 N Main, Room 102, Belton.