Weather forecast for Sunday may relocate event from tent to Mount Hope Farm’s historic barn

With the homecoming dance postponed, Fall Ball, an alternate, non school-sponsored event at Mt. Hope Farm, is hoping to fill the void — for those students who purchase tickets in time.

“I think we may have to cap the sales to fit the capacity of the barn,” said organizer Michele Martins. It’s a logistical shift that comes easily to Martins, whose tenure as 4th of July Committee Chairman just ended after two COVID-altered celebrations. As a partner in cocktail catering company Two Gals, Martins was able to leverage her event planning expertise and partnerships in an effort to create a replacement event for Mt. Hope High School students, many of whom were disappointed to miss out on the homecoming dance.

For Mt. Hope High School Principal Deborah DiBiase, the school’s low, self-reported 38 percent vaccination rate remains a concern for district leadership, and a barrier for holding events where large groups of students are to remain in close contact for extended periods of time. She hopes they will be able to hold an event in lieu of the traditional homecoming dance after the holidays.

Martins said she has had many parents step forward to volunteer to chaperone, and there will be a police detail on site as well. In addition to chaperoning, many parents and community members have volunteered their time and talent, as well as food and beverages. “We are keeping the costs low, and any leftover money will be donated to the classes of 2022 and 2023, as their fundraising ability has really been impacted these past couple of years,” said Martins.

Fall Ball will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 31. at Mount Hope Farm. Students are encouraged to wear semi-formal attire, Halloween-themed if they would like, but Halloween costume masks will not be permitted (though COVID-compliant, nose-and-mouth covering face masks, are very welcome.) Pizza and refreshments will be provided; guests are asked to not bring any with them. To reserve tickets, email mmartins02809@gmail.com for payment info.