Tables slid off the pile, as Doniphan football players quickly transformed a field near their hometown into the site of a hot ticket party. 

"I call this tent city," Suzy Rainforth said. "It'll be bigger than Doniphan by the time we get done."

Rainforth has 428 volunteer slots to fill, as the Cattlemen's Ball comes to Doniphan. 

She said, "One of the purposes was to showcase central Nebraska. What an opportunity we have in Doniphan to do that so we're very excited."

In addition to highlighting a different community each year, the Cattlemen's Ball raises funds for cancer research. 

Co-chair Deanna Bosselman said, "This event has raised over $3 million for cancer research and ten percent of the money stays at the local level."

Cancer's a common bond for many helping with the ball. 

Volunteer Shirley McCallum said, "Personally lost my dad to cancer earlier this year, so yeah it feels good to give back and have that support."

Wednesday, a small team prepared the serenity garden, a place those like McCallum can get away in the midst of the festivities.

"Just a nice time to reflect and we have bibles and a quiet space we can sit and remember those we really miss. For me, I know I'll see him again and that's comforting, a place to get away," she said.

Last year's even took place in Albion and raised around $800,000. Here in Doniphan they hope
to do better as they give cancer the boot.

Reporter's Notes by Steve White:
The event is taking place south of Grand Island near Doniphan. Volunteers included football players, Aurora firefighters, and the staff of the Hastings Visitors Bureau.

Bosselman said 3,000 tickets have been sold, but more are available. She said no one will be turned away if they want to get tickets at the gate.