From today’s Mesabi Daily News, the new administration in Virginia, Minn., has revived the tradition of the annual “Mayor’s Ball,” a big formal dance that was abandoned by his predecessor. I’m sure this adult prom is a fun tradition and that it could raise money for charity (in this case, perhaps a bit too ironically, the all-class reunion committee), but I am left with lingering doubts. Something about it reminds me of when I was elected high school class president on the platform of “a pop machine that you can use during the day.” I suppose I shouldn’t judge.
Virginia’s Mayor’s Ball tradition revived; set for April 11
By JIM ROMSAAS
Mesabi Daily NewsVIRGINIA — After a 14-year absence, the Mayor’s Ball in Virginia is making a comeback.
Organizers believe the formal ball, set for April 11 at the Coates Plaza Hotel, will be the perfect opportunity to get dressed up and benefit a community organization at the same time.The proceeds from the ball will benefit the Virginia All Community Reunion.
Mayor Steve Peterson said many people had a hand in starting up the ball again, including Sandy Wallin, Shelly Lindberg and Andi Ringsred. Most importantly, former Mayor Elder Metsa also suggested the event should be started up again because it had not been held since he left office more than 14 years ago.
“I had four Mayor’s Balls,’’ Metsa said in a telephone interview. “I was glad to see (Mayor) Steve (Peterson) renew having a Mayor’s Ball.’’
Holding a ball was good for three reasons, Metsa said. First, it was a chance for people to dress up and have a fun evening; second, it is a great way to raise funds for a charity or community organization; and third, it is generally good for the morale of the city.
“It was a lot of fun,’’ Metsa said. “It’s good for the town.’’
Ok. I won’t go into the pun-ny-ness of jokes about the Mayors ball’s, how the community wants its balls back, how many of them have been had, etc.
Whoops. Too late.