Mayor Kasim Reed and the City of Atlanta Host the 2010 Senior Citizens Ball

Mayor Reed and the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services revive beloved city tradition; more than 4,000 seniors enjoyed an evening of entertainment and dancing in honor of “Senior Citizens Day”
Mayor Kasim Reed saluted more than 4,000 Atlanta seniors at the 2010 Senior Citizens Ball on Monday evening at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Atlanta. Designating October 4, 2010 as “Senior Citizens Day” in the City of Atlanta, Mayor Reed thanked the city’s elders for being shining examples of integrity, leadership and enduring love.

“Tonight, I am honored to recognize the extraordinary individuals who built the foundation that my generation stands upon today,” Mayor Reed said. “This ball is a special time for their contributions to be recognized by the City’s leadership.”

“Atlanta is a caring city because of the people who live and work here and the way in which we respect each other, especially our elders,” Mayor Reed added. “As Mayor, I believe it is essential to continue important community traditions such as the Senior Citizens Ball.”

For many years, the Senior Citizens Ball was one of the city’s most anticipated social events. However, due to budget constraints, the City of Atlanta hosted the last ball in 2007.

Mayor Reed, in response to requests from dozens of seniors, promised to restore the ball shortly after his inauguration in January. Reflecting the spirit of Atlanta, more than two dozen business and community leaders contributed private funds for the ball. The City is especially appreciative of the AARP and Kaiser Permanente for their support.

Mrs. Sylvia Reed, Mayor Reed’s mother, co-chaired and co-hosted the ball, the theme of which was “Forever Young.” At the gala, the seniors were welcomed with a red carpet arrival and enjoyed food, music, a fashion show, prizes, and plenty of dancing throughout the evening. Radio personalities Frank Ski and Ryan Cameron of V-103 emceed the ball.

“I am delighted to reintroduce one of our City’s most beloved traditions,” Mayor Reed said. “I am especially appreciative of everyone who supported this event, especially my partners on the Atlanta City Council and the Mayor’s Office of Constituent Services.”