About Cowboy Ball 2009

The Third annual COWBOY BALL was held on the evening of Friday, November 6, 2009 at Old Tucson Studios and benefitted the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Arizona.   The evening festivities featured a plated dinner, a hosted bar, silent and live auctions, western performers and a performance by legendary country band Restless Heart.

Dress Code: ‘Cowboy Chic’

How it all began…

The Cowboy Ball was conceived and created in 2007 by Roni Ziemba, Cowboy Ball Chairman and Tanque Verde Ranch Meeting and Event Planner, in response to TVR’s desire to become more active in the Tucson community. The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Arizona was carefully chosen as the beneficiary because of the compelling MAW mission, and the obvious drive of Molly Ankney, MAW Director, Southern Arizona. The partnership was inevitable, especially since TVR had been host to many previous Wish Kids who dreamed of becoming cowboys and cowgirls. The success of the Cowboy Ball 2007 and 2008, and the subsequent increase in support, led to the newest partner – Old Tucson Studios. No longer able to host the growing numbers of ticket holders, the move to the larger venue, while keeping the original authentic western theme, make this new triad an unbeatable force in granting the Wishes of Kids in Southern Arizona for years to come!

The Make-A-Wish Foundation

Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has enriched the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. The Foundation’s mission reflects the life-changing impact that a Make-A-Wish experience has on children, families, referral sources, donors, sponsors and entire communities. The Make-A-Wish Foundation was founded in Arizona in 1980, after a little boy named Chris Greicius realized his heartfelt wish to become a police officer. Since its humble beginnings, the organization has blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon, reaching more than 188,000 children worldwide. Arizona’s 3,000th Wish was granted in June of 2007, to Tommy G. of Tucson. The WWII buff wished to visit Normandy, France. During Spring 2007, a Wish child, Teaghan, and her family, spent a week as guests of Tanque Verde Ranch. Her exciting week was highlighted at the first annual Cowboy Ball.

A network of more than 25,000 volunteers enables the Make-A-Wish Foundation to serve children with life-threatening medical conditions. Volunteers serve as Wish Granters, advocates, fundraisers, special events assistants, and in numerous other capacities. Tucson boasts nearly 100 Make-A-Wish volunteers, along with three members of the Foundation’s Board of Directors.