Buckaroo Ball with ‘Giant’ theme to benefit Boys & Girls Club
HORSESHOE BAY — Boys & Girls Club volunteers are planning to make this year’s Buckaroo Ball benefit a larger-than-life event in more ways than one.
The seventh-annual gala, which kicks off Oct. 16, benefits the Boys & Girls Club of the Highland Lakes, and is the nonprofit group’s largest fundraiser.
This year’s benefit will take place at the Turner Ranch, about 15 miles southwest of Horseshoe Bay on Texas 71.
Event organizer Ron Mitchell said the ball will adopt themes taken from the classic movie “Giant,” starring Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean.
The 1956 film, which tells the story of the Benedict ranching clan, is set largely on the sprawling Reata Ranch in Texas, a location Mitchell said volunteers are working hard to replicate for the ball.
“Each table theme will center around its own theme, from oil rigs to cowboy boots and the glitter world of the nouveau riche, as well as dress-attire themes for those attending,” Mitchell said. “It’s a great cause.”
Much of the cost is being borne by hosts Gary and Rhonda Turner, who donated both the venue and the food, bars and entertainment for the evening.
“We’re completely behind this event, and whatever you need, you just ask for it,” Turner told organizers during a press conference at the ranch Aug. 28. “Don’t be shy about asking for whatever you need.”
The Boys & Girls Club of the Highland Lakes, established in 1998, serves more than 700 children at its Marble Falls and Burnet facilities. The clubs host youth for after-school activities that include help with schoolwork, life skills, crafts, mentoring and exercise.
“We believe it’s our responsibility to give money to help our young people be successful, “ said Turner, a real estate and oil investor.
Mitchell said the event caters to donors of all income levels, with tables given themes according to four distinct levels taken from “Giant.”
Top-tier donors will sit at “The Benedicts head table,” where uniformed servers will cater to guests’ needs as the classic film plays on the big screen.
To purchase tickets for the event, call (830) 693-3676.