The Autry National Center of the American West will present its annual gala on October 3, 2015. A lively night honoring the best of the American West, the gala is one of the Autry’s largest fundraisers of the year. This year’s gala celebrates the beauty and diversity of Western landscapes, many of which are depicted in artworks throughout the Autry’s museum galleries.

Held at the Autry’s campus in Griffith Park, this annual gala includes the presentation of the Spirit of the West Award, a cocktail reception, silent and live auctions, an elegant dinner, and dancing under the stars at the after-party. Chuck Henry, NBC4 Southern California Anchor, will emcee this year’s event while musical entertainment will be provided by The Texas Tenors, a vocal group whose classical and country crossover took them to the final four in the reality television show America’s Got Talent.

This year’s recipient of the Spirit of the West Award, which recognizes organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the art, culture, and legacy of the American West, is Emmylou Harris, 13-time GRAMMY® Award-winning singer and songwriter. A pioneer in the music industry, Harris embodies the Western ideals of individuality, talent, and hard work.  With her captivating lyrics and voice, Harris established herself as a hallmark country singer of the 1970s and continued onward to create a musical career spanning over 40 years.

DawnMarie Kotonis (a.k.a. The Gavel Girl) will lead a spirited live auction of exquisite items, notably a round-trip excursion for two on the world-class Emirates Airline to Dubai; Buffalo Hunt, a pastel and charcoal piece by renowned artist Allan Houser; a week-long travel package to a five-bedroom sanctuary in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico; Gene Autry’s Royal Ride Cart, a Rolls Royce inspired electric cart Gene Autry used to traverse the grounds of his hotel in Palm Springs; a breathtaking oil painting by artist Jay Moore; and others.