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Christmas Ball Lights Up Erie Bayfront
Erie's bayfront was aglow on Saturday, Dec. 8 for the largest event of the holiday season, the 43rd annual Christmas Ball benefitting the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber National Institute. More than 1,500 guests attended this year's gala, held amid the sweeping vistas of the Bayfront Convention Center.
Erie attorney Russ Warner and his wife Robin served as chair couple for the 2007 Ball. "Light of Hope," the theme for this year's event, was carried out in dramatic fashion as spotlights beamed from the Convention Center illuminated the sky and beckoned guests to the new waterfront location.
The Center's Great Hall was transformed into a stunning winter scene with the creation of a 35-foot silhouette of the Erie skyline, including the bicentennial tower and a 10-foot high lighthouse. The skyline was designed and constructed by Frank Fecko, director of the Institute's Fine Arts program for adults, and carried out this year's color scheme of midnight blue, pewter and copper. Groupings of illuminated trees brightened the perimeter, the tables were adorned with block-glass lighthouses and candle arrangements.
The evening's program began with Julie Moore, a teacher at the Barber National Institute and vocalist with Tennessee Backporch, singing "Celebrate What's Different," a song that she co-wrote and performs with her husband, Chris Moore. The song describes the Barber National Institute as a "light on the shores of Lake Erie," that guides children, adults and families. The performance was followed by a video clip of Dr. Gertrude A. Barber urging viewers to "get on board" in support of individuals with disabilities.
In keeping with tradition, the Ball formally began with John Barber, president of the Barber National Institute, leading the guests in a toast to the memory of Dr. Barber.
Anyone who was unable to attend is invited to make a contribution to the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Foundation in support of programs for the more than 3,000 children and adults served annually. For information about making a gift, contact Gary Bukowski, Vice President for Advancement, at 878-4033.
