The 157th Clinton Annual Ball took place on Saturday, May 18, maintaining a tradition that stretches back to 1868.
The ball was originally held in January 1868, with festivities stretching for an entire week: a welcome bright spot in the harsh Cariboo winter. The ball is now confined to a single evening, but has been held every year since the first one, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Clinton Ball is now the longest-running continuously-held event of its kind in Canada.
On May 18 the tradition continued, with a large and enthusiastic crowd — many attired in period costume — enjoying appetizers and dinner, dancing to the music of Vic’s Dance Band, a performance by world champion hoop dancer Alex Wells, and a late-night buffet.
Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Lorne Doerkson “paid the piper” (Edmunbd Chilton) who piped in the dignitaries, Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart said grace, and Ashcroft mayor/TNRD chair Barbara Roden gave the loyal toast to the king. The Most Elegant Lady was Angie Marie Hooper, the Most Dapper Gentleman was Wes Gavley, and Mike Banning and Anna Motkoskil were named the Finest Couple.
Karen Taylor was the winner of the grand prize draw: a weekend at Echo Valley Ranch and Spa valued at $3,700, which was generously donated by Echo Valley.
