Thousands came together for a pasture party raising funds to support Nebraska’s efforts to fight cancer, as Cozad hosted Cattlemen’s Ball.
Held north of Cozad, the 2026 event supports cancer research at the Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. For more than 25 years, the Cattlemen’s Ball has traveled to a new site each year, raising funds for research while showcasing rural communities and Nebraska beef.
“We’ve got everything from tail to table today,” said Jeff Rudolph, a local cattle feeder who was working the Beef Tent, where people could see live cattle and sample beef dishes.
Temps were almost 90 as people gathered under tents to eat beef and take part in events raising funds for cancer research. Despite the heat, a nice breeze flowed through, as large crowds gathered for a cancer survivor fashion show, cattle branding demonstration, and other events.
Committee member Shannon Peterson said, “We had a great committee. People lined up for breakfast and brunch and our Saturday night meal. We had great donations on the beef side from Tyson and a few other places. Younes Center came in and prepared meals.”
Peterson said the Dawson County committee worked for more than a year in preparation.
“It takes a lot of people to get it put together,” she said. “The community has stepped up great, volunteers are amazing.”
