As many as 300 people may attend Lexington-Rockbridge County Chamber of Commerce's biggest fundraising event of the year.

The 11th Annual Sweetheart Ball, to be held Saturday, Feb. 10, will feature dinner, dancing to the band Groove Town, and both a silent and live auction at the Natural Bridge Inn and Conference Center. This is the 70th year the Chamber has hosted a dinner-dance for its members.

The event also features the presentation of the Chamber's 23rd annual "Business Individual of the Year" award, which is one of the most prestigious awards offered in the local business community. The Chamber takes nominations from its membership, and then a committee of members selects the winners from these.

The semi-formal event is largely held for Chamber members, though friends and family are welcome. Chamber director Sammy Moore said the Chamber printed notices in newsletters, and sent e-mails and invitations to past participants.

While the silent auction has always been tradition, the live auction has been a recent addition. Moore said it's been a success because it has diversified the range of the event, adding excitement for attendees.

The silent auction is in the hotel's Washington Hall, with a mingling and a cash bar from 5 till 7:30 p.m. Guests then move into the Jefferson Ballroom, where a buffet dinner is served, followed by the live auction and the award presentation.

Lexington-Rockbridge County Chamber of Commerce

Produced by Washington and Lee journalism students.

Lead supervisor:      Prof. Claudette Artwick

Reporting supervisors:

Prof. Doug Cumming

Prof. Phylissa Mitchell

Prof. Brian Richardson

Technical supervisor:  Michael Todd