John Ballis Press Release: Rustlin' up research funds at the Cattle Baron's Ball

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) October 7, 2009 -- As many as 2,000 Western-clad guests poured through ranch gates Saturday night to help raise more than $1 million for cancer research including John Ballis. Many were veterans of the annual hoedown during which country music, two-steppin', good eats, gaming and bidding on auction items provide a full night of entertainment.

Others were newcomers to the lively scene orchestrated by Victory, the volunteer branch of the American Cancer Society that produces the mega-fundraiser. Since its inception, the event has raised $22 million, not including the final tally of Saturday's proceeds.

Joni Ballis and Laura Hand chaired the party that followed a Texas Wildlife theme, which explains the critter display that included baby alligators, opossums, tarantulas and more. Hence, the wildlife silhouetted on the sunset dècor by Let It Fly Events.

Country heartthrob Blake Shelton provided the headliner talent, which had the dance floor packed and more than a few of the ladies swooning. During the early-evening underwriter party, Katie Stuckey and the Texas Swagger band entertained. That crowd included Victory president Joan Dunlap, Cyvia and Melvin Wolff,Perry and Dan D'Armond, Maggie and Mike Castleman, Nancyand Dr. Kent Stobaugh, Katie and A.J. Brass, and Denise and Bill Monteleone, and John Ballis.

Among guests chowing down at the buffet spreads put on by Pappas Catering were Stef and Jay Levy, Patti Murphy, Allie andJay Fields, Mina and Robert Covington, Elizabeth and Roger Fulghum, and Glenda and Doug Nicholson and John Ballis.

John Ballis