‘Kickin’ Up the Dust’ gala comes with a challenge: ‘Let’s get this museum built!’

It was a step back into the days of the Old Wild West on Saturday (March 14) evening, for guests of the U.S. Marshals Stampede, inaugural "Kickin' Up the Dust" Gala.

More than 700 attended the event, which was held at the Kay Rodgers Expo Center in Fort Smith and designed to raise funds for the U.S. Marshals Museum. The sold-out gala  kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception at 6 p.m. that included cowboy cocktails, a jump start on the silent auction, first play on the casino tables, and live music. Doors opened to the main event at 7 p.m., giving the majority of guests their chance to get in on the food, games, drinks, and entertainment.

Upon arrival, visitors could climb inside an authentic 1800s stagecoach, which was on loan from Wells Fargo. Inside, the Wild West motif continued, as each room was transformed with themed backdrops, including an old school casino and saloon. Tables and displays were adorned with festive decor, with the "Gallow Stage" featuring a hang 'em noose. Actors sporting period costumes added to the fun, with costumes including marshals, deputies, saloon ladies, cowboys, and cowgirls.

Elaborately decorated food stations were set up throughout the venue, serving up authentic cowboy cuisine and other delicious dishes. Among the many featured selections were hearty favorites such as the cracked pepper shrimp on green chili grits, jalapeno pork chops, beef brisket, grilled sweet corn on the cob, and BBQ beans. Guests could wash it all down at the "watering holes" which offered a full range of beer, wine, cowboy cocktails, and soft drinks.

During dinner, U.S. Marshals Museum Executive Director Jim Dunn welcomed the crowd and recognized event co-chairs Kathy Babb and Mary Carleton Young. The women, along with their husbands Doug Babb and Robert Young, served as the lead organizers of the event, helping to plan, secure sponsors, recruit volunteers, and round up auction items.

"I wish we could bottle the enthusiasm and motivation of these two ladies," said Dunn. "They have done an outstanding job."

The women were presented with roses, in appreciation of their hard work and given a standing ovation by the crowd. Babb and Young expressed their thanks to the supporters and their excitement about the coming of the U.S. Marshals Museum.

Young wrapped it up with a simple charge to the crowd: "Let's get this museum built!"

The live auction then underway with seven  big-ticket items up for grabs. Featured prizes included a Jeddah Strong Smith Bronze statue by artist David Lemon; a ladies Rolex watch; a white gold, diamond, and pearl rope necklace; a 10-day cruise; a commemorative one-of-a-kind Henry 45 caliber rifle, engraved with historical etching and the U.S. Marshals seal on its stock; and more.

In addition to the live auction, guests could try their luck in the silent auction event, the raffle drawing, or play for a number of prizes at the casino gaming tables.

Tickets for the event were $200, with special Twilight tickets available for $100. Twilight goers were allowed entrance at 9 p.m. to enjoy a delicious dessert reception and music by Grammy award-winning group, "Asleep at the Wheel." Several other acts performed throughout the night, including Heath Wright and the Hangmen, The Crumbs, and regional duo Chris & Lolly.

According to Development Director Alice Alt, planning for the gala began a year ago,  with the hopes of raising funds and awareness for the U.S. Marshals Museum campaign. The world-class museum, which is to be built on the Arkansas River in Fort Smith, will serve as a national center of heritage and legacy, recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of the U.S. Marshals Service.

Fort Smith was chosen as the sight for the new museum due greatly in part to its history and affiliation with the U.S. Marshals Service. Known as a "gateway to the old west," the city saw its fair share of outlaws and lawmen who passed through on their way to Indian Territory. Local philanthropists and leaders have led the charge for the capital campaign in hopes of raising the estimated $50 million dollars to construct the modern facility. Organizers hope the gala will raise awareness of the community's and board's efforts, in addition to bringing in approximately a quarter of a million dollars.

"We are really riding a wave of momentum with the museum," said Dunn. "We are extraordinarily pleased with the latest announcements about the museum, including the Sicard Hall of Honor and this event. This project truly belongs to the people of Fort Smith."

The event was held a day after the announcement that First Bank Corp. added $500,000 to its donation and is 60% toward a goal to raise another $1 million for the museum to honor the late Sam M. Sicard, who was president and CEO of First Bank Corp.

The U.S. Marshals Museum is expected to open in 2017.