Arlington: Sport And Song Theme Supports The TEX Gala

Special Appearance By Matthew McConaughey And Concert By Kenny Chesney Enthralls Patrons

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Ben Ludeman and Bailey Orr

THE SCENE: Globe Life Field in Arlington was the recent setting of The TEX Gala. Over 1,300 sociables, philanthropists, sports enthusiasts, and celebrities were on hand for the 3rd Annual The TEX Gala for a night of fundraising, emotional tributes, and a concert from one of the nation’s most-loved musicians, Kenny Chesney, which created a fantastic, unforgettable night for all who attended.

THE VIBE: The Hawaiian-chic attired crowd donned their tropical looks, with the men donning a mix of Hawaiian and linen shirts, while the women sported bright colored dresses, prints and caftans, which created a vibrant and welcoming environment for all throughout the night. This could be felt from the second the guests arrived as they posed for photos on the Step & Repeat to commemorate the evening. Guests then journeyed to the Lexus Home Plate Club for a VIP reception where they mingled with some of their favorite Texas Rangers, past and present.

The action then moved to the field at Globe Life Field for the cocktail hour where partygoers mixed while sipping on their favorite spirits. Additionally, supporters could play an array of casino-style games and bid on silent auction items which included various sports and music memorabilia items including an autographed piece from Super Bowl LVII MVP and Tyler native Patrick Mahomes, as well as Texas Rangers-specific items, including a Rangers City Connect package.

The crowd then took their seats on the field for the main program. As guests dined on a three-course meal, they were treated to introductions by organization leaders as well as a touching video about the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation’s work in the North Texas Community.

Next, auctioneer Tim Willett lead a spirited live auction that included a heads or tail auction where the winner received four tickets to the 2023 season finale at Globe Life Field, an autographed Iván “Pudge” Rodríguez jersey, and a stand-up paddleboard. The fun continued with five live auction packages where people bid on an array of items including a VIP experience for a three-games series at New York Mets Citi Field and an autographed guitar signed by Kenny Chesney.

Once the auction concluded, the crowd rose to their feet as surprise guest, Academy-Award Winning Actor Matthew McConaughey, who has worked with the Texas Ranger Foundation through his non-profit organization, just keep livin, took to the stage to introduce his good friend Kenny Chesney. Chesney kept the crowd on their feet throughout the 90-minute set of his favorite tunes, capping off a one-of-a-kind night that perfectly married sport, music and philanthropy.

THE NON PROFIT: The event, raised over $2 million for the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation. The organization provides programs to improve the lives of children, military members, first responders, and their families in North Texas and beyond.