DONIPHAN - The 11th annual Cattlemen's Ball is kicking off near Doniphan in south-central Nebraska.

The event begins Friday with a golf tournament followed by an evening reception. It continues Saturday and will feature a style show, dance and live and silent auctions.

Among the items being auctioned are cowboy boots signed by two of the world's wealthiest men - Microsoft founder Bill Gates and billionaire investor Warren Buffett.

Their boots will join pairs signed by comedian Dan Whitney, better known as Larry the Cable Guy, actor Kevin Costner and country singers Brad Paisley and Charlie Daniels.

Proceeds from the event will go to cancer research, including the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Eppley Cancer Center.