By Celeste Rapp, originally printed in the Starbuck Times on September 26.

The 14th annual Harvest Ball is quickly approaching. On Oct. 12 at Lakeside Ballroom, community members will have the opportunity to dress up and enjoy an evening with friends. Doors open with a social hour at 5 p.m., where ball-goers will be able to view the live and silent auction items as well as sign up for raffles and bid on the “Walls of Wine.”

Dinner will be served at 7 p.m., and guests can expect a gourmet meal of prime rib and gravy, garlic mashed potatoes, Caribbean blend vegetables and dessert. Everyone will have the chance to sit down, eat, and relax before the dancing begins at 9 p.m. This year’s ball will feature Kevin Klimek and The Enterprise Band.

Kevin Klimek, based out of Alexandria, leads the band. Kevin Klimek and The Enterprise Band cover a wide variety of musical styles, including 1960s to 1970s country, 1960s to 1970s rock, blues, smooth jazz, and original songs. Klimek has been performing since 1965 and has vast experience in the music industry. He has opened for groups such as Buck Owens and Bill Haley’s Comets.

Last year, Glacial Ridge Hospital System opened the expansion of the hospital facility. The expansion features 22 hospital rooms in a new wing. The proceeds from the past two harvest balls were donated to help pay for 22 new vital machines for the new wing of the hospital. This year, the auxiliary plans to pay the rest of the cost with proceeds from the ball.