Having a Ball

The ballroom of the Springfield Sheraton was the site for the annual Bright Nights Ball, the major fundraiser for the Spirit of Springfield, staged on Nov. 17. More than 400 people turned out for the black-tie affair, which had a Monopoly theme (Hasbro Games was the sponsor), and featured a live auction that netted more than $30,000 for the Spirit of Springfield. Clockwise, from right, Urban League of Springfield President Henry Thomas, U.S. Congressman Richard Neal, Spirit of Springfield Director Judith Matt, and Springfield Mayor-elect Domenic Sarno; volunteer hostess Stephanie Malikowski and host Thomas Murca display Monopoly Express games. Those purchasing the $50 items also won chances to win prizes; (left to right) Dr. Fraud Madawwar, Joan Hebert, Col. (ret.) Ron Senz, Sarno, Leila Mudawwar, and Dr. Ronald Kanagaki; Josephine Sarnelli and Jeff Lander from Small Planet Dancers.

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Positive Steps

Partnering institutions that brought the Alvin Ailey II dance company (at left) to Springfield’s CityStage for two performances are represented by, left to right, John Wilson, Springfield College; Naomi White-Innis, American International College; Jose Tolson, Elms College; Kent Alexander, Elms College; Troy Powell, associate artistic director, Alvin Ailey II; Helen Caulton-Harris, Springfield Department of Health and Human Services; Myra Smith, Springfield Technical Community College; William Blatch, Black Men of Greater Springfield; Janine Fondon, Unity First News; and Ira Rubenzahl, President of STCC.