Butcher’s Ball Brings Support to Local Ranchers and Farmers after Harvey
Houstonians love meat, so it was no surprise that the 2nd Annual Butcher’s Ball drew a crowd. The extravagant bar-b-que affair gave meat and local food lovers the chance to try an array of dishes prepared by the biggest names in Houston food. The event had something other than great eats on the table, too. This year, the ball raised awareness and funds for local farmers affected by Hurricane Harvey.
The Butcher’s Ball in 2016 was started by Rockin’ Star Ranch, in 2016 to promote and support local ranchers and vegetable growers. This year, the event featured 30+ participating chefs, 17 tasting stations, and an all-day whole hog cook off between 2 teams. Intended to educate as well, the ball also had discussion panels, as well as several whole animal butcher demonstrations. Local farmers and ranchers affected by the storm will be the beneficiaries of all the funds raised at the event.
Jonathon Beitler, marketing director for the Ranch, said that "the 2017 Butcher’s Ball raised over $26,000 in total". These funds will go to various charitable causes to benefit local farms affected by the hurricane. Rockin’ Star Ranch is working with farmers, Urban Harvest, The Piggy Bank and FoodWays Texas to identify those in need and to distribute the funds. Beitler also shared that Rockin’ Star Ranch would send a survey to farmers and ranchers in southeast Texas to help identify needs.
$5,000 of the donations will be going to Urban Harvest to “help relieve some of the costs for farmers’ participation in farmers markets around town.” The remaining $21, 265 will be given as direct cash donations to farms.”
Beitler is already planning the Butchers Ball 2018, and they’ll be partnering with local chefs and growers to provide education-oriented events smaller lead up events.
The 2017 Butchers Ball raised 5 times as much as the 2016 event. A new silent auction this year helped the event raise more funds for the farmers affected by Harvey. The 2018 Butchers Ball will return to the 2016 format, but they’ll continue to donate a portion of ticket sales. Beitler shared, “We want to continue highlighting these amazing people in our community
