by Susan Swan
The 146th Clinton Annual Ball was held on Saturday, May 18 in the Clinton Memorial Hall.
As guests arrived they were escorted to their tables by Cst. Jeff McMichaels and Mill Girl Follies member Megan Burrage. The Perfect Match, a duo from Williams Lake entertained prior to the start of the evening’s activities.
Master of Ceremonies, Roland Stanke introduced the dignitaries present: namely Cathy McLeod, MP, Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo and her husband, Cache Creek Mayor John Ranta and his wife Carmen; TNRD Area E Director, Sally Watson and her partner; and Mayor Jim Rivett and his wife Christine.
Following a lovely dinner catered by the Ladies Auxiliary to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 194, May Rivett gave a brief explanation of the 150/50 Anniversary going on in Clinton this year.
That was followed by a special presentation by Cathy McLeod. She called on Doris and Howard Gates to come forward and receive a special award honouring all the time and effort they have put in to keeping the Ball a vibrant event.
McLeod then lead the Grand March while the panel of judges made their choices for awards. Most Elegant Lady went to Jean Dall; Most Dapper Gentleman was Andy May and Finest Couple was Bernice Weihs-Torheiden and Graham Anderson.
The Cariboo Gold Dance Band provided lively dance tunes to keep the dancers on the floor. When the band took a break the Mill Girl Follies took to the floor. In spite of some technical difficulties with the music the troupe persevered and at one point, danced to the clapping of the audience. They did a terrific job and were very well received by the crowd.
The music, entertainment and dancing continued until 1 a.m.