Bright Nights Gala theme announced

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor

SPRINGFIELD It's not a very common sight to see Springfield Mayor Charles Ryan wear a gauze-like yellow scarf decorated with crescent moons over his standard blue blazer, but the unusual garb was all part of the announcement of the theme of this year's "City of Bright Nights Ball."

City officials as well as members of the city's business community joined Spirit of Springfield President Judith Matt on Aug. 17 at Baystate Medical Center to reveal a Moroccan theme.

With an offering of authentic Moroccan cuisine and a performance by two belly dancers, Matt set the stage for the Nov. 18 event called "Moon over Morocco."

The 11th annual gala will take place once again at the Sheraton Springfield. It will feature a Moroccan market, dinner and dancing.

Proceeds from the gala will be used to help underwrite the Sprit of Springfield's events including the "World's Largest Pancake Breakfast," "The Big Balloon Parade," "Bright Nights at Forest Park,' and the Fourth of July fireworks.

"Bright Nights at Forest Park" generated an economic impact of $7.4 million last year.

The chair of this year's gala, Baystate Health President and Chief Executive officer Mark Tolosky said "Bright Nights" has "helped put Springfield on the national map."

He said that "Better Homes and Gardens" contacted Baystate for information to be included in an article about safe holiday lighting displays. When medical center personnel asked why the national publication selected Baystate as a source, Tolosky recounted, "They said, 'We know you're in the home of one of the best lighting displays in America.'"

For ticket information, call 733-3800.