By Patrick Smith / Staff writer

The Student Activities Board will host the annual Snowflake Ball tonight. Students can arrive at the Four Points Sheraton in Greensburg, where the dance is being held, as early as 5:30 p.m. to register. The dance begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 11 p.m.

According to Jessica Dick, Traditional Chair of SAB and the head of planning the dance, preparations for the Ball began back in October. Getting ready for the dance was a group effort.

“The whole executive board of the group helped out a lot. My committee helped with planning the colors, the chocolate fountain, and the gift bags. Other SAB members helped with ticket sales and advertising” said Dick.

There were a few minor setbacks for the dance planners. According to Dick, tickets went on sale a day later than she had wanted and also a few of the items that she had wanted to include in the gift bags had to be substituted for items provided by the company UPG has a contract with. But despite the late start, tickets still went on sale about four weeks before the dance.

“We are very pleased with ticket sales,” said Dick. “Sales for the Snowflake Ball are usually lower than sales for the Spring Fling, but this year they have been absolutely amazing.” The number of student tickets sold was 134.

When students arrive at the Ball they can present their tickets to get registered, get pictures taken, and vote for the Snowflake King and Queen, according to SAB member Karen Karelitz. Dinner will be served soon after around 6:15 p.m.

“The dinner will be buffet-style and voting for King and Queen will probably be at the beginning. It used to be held between dinner and the dancing but we’re trying to do it earlier this year,” said Karelitz.

SAB is emphasizing the formal nature of the Snowflake Ball. In addition, the group is thinking about relaxing some of the formality of the Spring Fling.

“The dance this year is going to be a great time. I put a lot of hard work into it and it should be a lot of fun,” said Dick.