March 29, 2024

Newton school district’s inaugural Princesses and Papas Ball scheduled for late February

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Hear ye, hear ye! The Newton Community School District has decreed its first annual Princesses and Papas Ball to be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, in the lower gym at Newton Senior High School.

The ball is for all little girls in preschool through sixth grade and their prince — father, uncle, grandfather or other special guardian.

“We sent it (flyer of information) out to 880 girls in all of the preschool and elementary schools here in Newton,” said Amanda Sterk, a guidance counselor at NHS. “I’m hoping for 300 couples; that would be extremely successful.”

The gymnasium at the high school will be decorated with a castle backdrop that has been used in high school plays, as well as with lights and other elements typical for a princess theme. A professional DJ will entertain guests, and a photographer will be on hand to snap photos of the happy “couple.” There will be activities throughout the evening, such as a limbo and hula hoop contest, and treats will be served.

Drawings for prizes will also take place during the ball.

“We have donations of an Iowa Hawks helmet, we also have four tickets to a NASCAR race coming up, we have a free night at La Corsette, a $25 gift certificate to Montana Mike’s and a $25 gift certificate to Posh Salon,” Sterk said. Other prizes include passes to Fore Seasons Golf Practice Center, a limited-edition print from Iowa artist John Bald and gift baskets geared toward the girls.

The Student Council and Key Club-run event has also partnered with businesses in town for special deals aimed at daddies and their daughters. For example, girls can get a mini makeover for $20 at Posh Salon or Trenz Salon before the event, and Montana Mike’s is offering a free dessert with a meal, among other offers.

“We’re trying to bridge some of the of the community groups because we really want this to be an annual event,” Sterk said. “The more we can make it special for the girls, the more they look forward to it next year.”

Cost is $5 per person in advance, but the price raises to $7.50 per person at the door. Proceeds benefit charitable organizations within the high school, such as Becca’s Closet “where people can donate prom dresses and old bridesmaid dresses and stuff like that, and girls that don’t have the funding can go pick out a dress at the high school,” Sterk said.

Amy Gronauer can be contacted at 792-3121 ext. 426 or via e-mail at agronauer@newtondailynews.com.