Prom usually marks one of the last times that students get to dress up and dance the night away. But, one more occasion will allow participants to have another last dance.
The annual Starlight Ball is coordinated each year by the Child Conservation League organization. The CLL was founded in 1947 and is one of the oldest organizations in Athens. The money raised from the ball goes to benefitting children in need.
This ball has been a tradition for many years.
“I remember always helping my grandmother, who was a founding member, pick out her ball dress,” said Kris Cornwell, co-chair of the CLL organization along with Valerie Miller “It’s the one time in Athens that you can get dressed up and walk down court street to a ball.”
The CLL group joined the Athens Foundation this year so they could be more accessible to the needs of children in Athens County. Groups who's needs could be met by the help of the CLL can apply for grants. After the applications are submitted the CLL will review the grants and make decisions based on those that best meet their missions needs. "The money that we've raised in the past has primarily gone to the Obleness Hospital," said Cornwell. The primary recipient of these funds is the O’Bleness Memorial Hospital.
“The money we raise primarily goes to the hospital to help them with their needs,” Cornwell said. The starlight ball wasn’t the beginning of this generous group’s gifts.
“The first year they bought a turkey and gave it to families for the holidays and then evolved into a ball to raise money,” said Cornwell. “It’s a lot of fun but more than anything it’s rewarding. I’m very excited for this event.”
Last year the starlight ball was very successful and is expected to be just as successful this Saturday.
“Last year we raised $19,000,” said Cindy Hayes who is the past ball chair for the CLL. “we maxed out our ticket sales and the place was full.”
Many different members of the community join in on the fun and the rewarding outcome involving this ball.
“This year we’re having a great band from Cleveland,” said Hayes “There will also be a martini bar and most of all, lots of fun.”
The band Light of Day from Cleveland will be playing for this years Starlight Ball.
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If You Go:
What: Annual Starlight Ball
When: Saturday; Cocktails at 6 p.m., dinner at 7:15 p.m.
Where: Baker Ballroom
Admission: $175 per couple $87.50 per single, available at Cornwell Jewelers
