Rodeo pros take runway

The Tarleton Student Center ballrooms were filled with cowboy hats and haute couture as Lilly G Arena Productions hosted its annual Simply Dangerous fashion show and awards presentation.

The annual event also acts as a fundraiser for Cook’s Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network as ticket costs and table tips went to helping families dealing with major health issues in their children.

Among those taking the microphone was a mother who child was born premature and faced serious health issues. Showcasing the benefit of Cook’s and CMN, she said the child, who is now two, was perfectly healthy thanks to their efforts.

As of the beginning of the week, $1,200 had been had been raised from the event in donations and QR codes and organizer Rick Taylor reported that donations routinely come in for several weeks after the event. The annual event has raised more than $116,000 for the charity over the years.

“It was an overall success with a record crowd,” said Taylor. Taylor announced that next year’s Simply Dangerous is a tribute to ‘Women in the Dirt’ with a dedication to Carolyn Colburn Holden It will be held on Feb. 22, 2025.

In addition to helping a good cause, tickets guaranteed guests a brisket dinner, a peek at all the fashion on the runway sponsored by Southern Charm Boutique of Hamilton and live entertainment including singing by Maddye Pendleton, Jaci Barham, Tori Jacobson and Terry Brown. Rodeo Clown Jeff Jackrabbit Harris also entertained with a comedic magic show while Hilda Mochado showed off some impressive trick roping.

There was also a special presentation honoring rodeo legend Larry Mahan.

MCs for the event were Jaci Barham and Codye Daily.

Honored during the awards were: Top Hand Award- Gayla Guass and Alice Whitecotten Citizen of the Year- Julie Hale of the local Toys for Tots (who provided gifts for 12,000 kids in four counties in 2023) Mason Brooks Humanitarian Awards- Mike Pruitt of Erath County Servant-Souls and the Rylan Strong Network (which assists families with children facing terminal illnesses) Bill Mack Communications Award- KCLW 900 AM of Hamilton (represented by Sandie Jaggers and Shane Curington) Sponsor of the Year-McAllister’s Deli I Can Award- Jaci Barham Entertainer of the Year-Jeff “Jackrabbit” Harris Lifetime Achievement Award- Willie Cook The event also culminated in the crowning of Ms Lilly G 2024 Jesika McClary and Miss Lilly G Kellen Rushfeldt. Miss Lilly G Salado Michael Gillett will continue to serve.