Erie Times - News | GoErie.com | August 26, 2007

Barber Ball to bounce to bayfront

The word just became official: Erie's premier holiday gala will take place in a new location this year.

In celebration of its 55th year, the Dr. Gertrude A. Barber National Institute will host its Christmas Ball at the beautiful new Bayfront Convention Center, 1 Sassafras Pier. Mark your calendars now for Saturday, Dec. 8.

Russ and Robin Warner are chaircouple for this, the 43rd annual event. Loyal Ball attendees themselves, the Warners promise to keep many of the features that have made the dance a popular favorite, while adding some new touches to take advantage of the waterfront location.

For most of the past four decades, the Christmas Ball has been held at Rainbow Gardens, attracting crowds of more than 1,200 revelers. John Barber, president of the Barber National Institute, said that the organization has undertaken the move as a show of support for the City's economic development.

The Christmas Ball - the largest fundraiser of the year for the institute - supports programs for the more than 3,000 children and adults with disabilities served annually by the organization. Founder Dr. Gertrude A. Barber established the Ball in the early 1960s as a way to bring parents and other friends together in support of the fledgling center.

Invitations to the event will be mailed in October. To request an invitation, call 453-7661.

Russ and Robin Warner, left, attend the 2006 Barber National Institute Ball with friends Kathy and Dave Wagner. The Warners are leading the planning for this year's 43rd annual ball.

Erie's Bayfront Convention Center