REFLECTIONS OF VERSAILLES
THE 26TH ANNUAL BASTILLE DAY BALL

Summer in Princeton would be incomplete without the Bastille Day Ball. Originating in 1983 under the leadership of Sally Sword, the Ball has annually attracted hundreds of people to its mid-July celebration of French unity and American philanthropy.

Last year's Ball, entitled "Reflections of Versailles" was held Saturday, July 12 at historic Drumthwacket, in Princeton, NJ. All aspects of this festive evening were based on the gardens of the Versailles Palace with the committee's efforts focused on creating a palatial atmosphere which reflected the gardens, groves and statues surrounding the French Palace.

In addition to diner, dancing and tours of the Governor's mansion, a highlight of this year's Ball was the auctioned artwork influenced by the outdoor features of Versailles. The original paintings and sculptures were produced and donated by local advanced high school art students and were auctioned for the benefit of TCS. We thank the Princeton Arts Council, the student artists who participated in this effort, and their schools: Stuart Country Day School, Princeton High School, The Pennington School and Hopewell Valley Central High School.

The 26th Annual Bastille Day Ball was chaired by Gabrielle Shamsey, Annie Carden, and Alison Beers. Over the years, The Bastille Day Ball has generated well over one and a half million dollars for Trinity Counseling Service. This money has significantly strengthened and enhanced the lives of men, women and children in the greater Princeton community. Trinity Counseling Service is grateful for the ongoing support of individuals and corporations whose generosity changes lives every day throughout the year.

Tickets are limited to 400. Individual: Angel $1,000 and above, Benefactor $400, Patron $300, Guest $200 (Angels, Benefactors and Patrons will be listed) Corporate: Underwriter $10,000, Benefactor $5,000, Sponsor $3,500, Patron $2,500 (All levels will be listed)

Tickets to the Bastille Day Ball are limited and sell out quickly. To be added to the mailing list for the 2009 Ball or for ticket information, please call: Peter Stimpson at (609) 924-0060 or email him at