College Rodeo Sports Banquet Raises $17,000

On Tuesday, March 2, Panola College hosted an inaugural rodeo sports banquet to raise funds to start a new rodeo program. The event was an overwhelming success with over two hundred citizens from Carthage and surrounding communities coming together to show their support for Panola College’s decision to begin a collegiate rodeo team.  

This kickoff banquet included dinner, along with entertainment and insightful commentary from 8-Time World Champion Bull Rider Don Gay. Ticket sales and proceeds from silent and live auctions of rodeo memorabilia and donated gifts helped the college raise $17,092, over thirty percent of the money necessary to properly fund the program. 

“I would like to thank the following for their hard work and support,” said Jeb Barney, Panola College Rodeo Coach. “ Don Gay, Terry Holland, Terry Williams, Tommie Ritter Smith and the staff of the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame, Jack Dillard, Dr. Gregory Powell, Don and Amy Clinton, my wife Sandi, Cyndi Rutherford and the College foodservice company Sodexho, Teresa Cage, the staff of the Panola College Business Office, Bud Worley, KGAS Radio, Auto Express Lube, Bauer Furniture, Car Tex Trailer Sales, Carthage Discount Tire, Cassity Jones, Cavender's, Chris Shivers, Daddy Sam’s, Dazzle's Collectables & Accessories, Don’s Photography, Drew Nixon, Golden Corral, Hooper Feed, Iron Man Mercantile, J W Hart, Jim’s Boots and Shoes, Jones Brothers Furniture, Justin McBride, Ken Turner Pharmacy, Lone Star Grill, Pam Harvey, Panola Livestock, Peppermint Fence Pre-School and Daycare, ProSigns, Quality Boot and Shoe Repair, R E and Martha Josey, Randy Lindsey, Ron Pack with Panhandle Slim, Ross Coleman, Sammy Andrews Rodeo Company, Serene Haven, Steptoe’s Jewelry, Studio 23 Photography, TDM Jewelry, The Panola Watchman, Tod Slone Saddlery, Treadwell Land and Cattle, Tuff Hedeman, and Val and Candice Evans.” 

“The banquet couldn’t have turned out better; it surpassed all of our expectations,” said Barney.   “I would also like to thank all of those who supported our auction, both donors and buyers, the support for this program was overwhelming.  I think everyone there had a great time, I know I did.”  

For additional information about the Panola College Rodeo Program, or to make a contribution please call 903-693-2008 or 903-693-2062.  

Mr. Don Gay surrounded by items donated to raise money for the Panola College Rodeo Team.

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