The Centennial Ball celebrating 100 years for the Orchard at Altapass was filled wall-to-wall with good cheer by enthusiastic patrons looking forward to a long future for the historic project. 

Guests arrived in colorful attire (see photos), although the only actual tuxedo in the room was the jacket worn by Bryce Percival over his formal black overalls.  However, Ethan Blumenthal also lit up the room with his brightly embroidered dinner jacket at the newly refurbished Whitson Building in Spruce Pine.

Table-hopping was the order of the evening, while guests noshed at the endless offerings of delectable delicacies by Downtown Danny's. Live music by Amantha Mill Band and Joe Sam Queen's square dances filled the floor with high-stepping guests who, in keeping with Orchard traditions, danced like "nobody is watching!"

 More than 55 selections filled the three auction tables. The crowd hovered over the choices ranging from a week in a charming cabin in Beaufort, NC, complete with sailboat ride, to offerings of personalized portraits by fine local artists, bridge lessons by Bridge Life Master Kit Trubey, a basket making lesson by our own Billie Ruth Sudduth, elegant handmade jewelry of mountain gemstones, and so much more!

 The Altapass Foundation is most thankful for the generosity and enthusiasm of the Ball participants. This event was a very successful fundraiser for the continuation of our preservation efforts at The Orchard!