By Staff
AUCTION DONATIONS Meridian Symphony League member Ashley Withers accepts items from Julie Craven, owner of Southern Gardens and Adventure Outfitters, for Saturday's ball at Frank Cochran Center. The annual event is the league's major fund-raiser. Proceeds go to defray expenses of the Meridian Symphony Orchestra. Photo by Paula Merritt/The Meridian Star
From staff reports
Dec. 1, 2000
This weekend, Frank Cochran Center will be temporarily transformed into a setting reminiscent of the movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" for the Meridian Symphony League Ball.
Organizers have taken a novel approach for this year's event, which gets under way Saturday evening at 8.
To achieve the desired ambience, the Frank Cochran Center will have a garden-type atmosphere.
The tone will be set as ball-goers approach the front entrance, which will feature two park benches and street lamps.
Upon entering the doors, guest will enter a garden filled with greenery and fresh flowers. Ferns and hurricane lamps will adorn the tables and a replica of the Bird Girl Statue (pictured on the book's cover) will be the centerpiece of the food table. Also, replicas of stone columns will be visible throughout the room.
Equally appealing will be the food served for the evening event. In keeping with the ball's theme, the menu will feature hors d'oeuvres, seafood and other delectables prepared by caterers Missi Sip &Eat.
A highlight of the annual event is the auction, in which guests have the opportunity to bid on a wide array of items. This year, more than 50 items paintings, gift baskets, vacation packages, home decorations and more will be up for bid.
In previous years, two auctions have been held a silent and a live auction. However, this year only one event is scheduled.
Thus, items that would normally be showcased in a live will be featured in what will be known as Silent Auction Part 2.
And though there will not be a live auction, Meridian auctioneer Al Land will be on the scene to announce the progression of the silent auction.
Another feature of the evening will be a raffle for a guitar starter kit donated by Peavey Electronics. In addition to a guitar, the package includes an amplifier and guitar. Tickets are $1 and may purchased from league members or on the night of the ball.
Music for the evening will be provided by 24-7, a rhythm and blues band from Jackson.
The annual ball is the league's major fund-raiser. Proceeds from the event help defray expenses incurred by the Meridian Symphony Orchestra.
Tickets for the 39th Annual Meridian Symphony League Ball are $30, single and $60, couple. They may be purchased from league members or on the night of the ball.