Aspen Balls
2004 - Saturday, June 19
The first Annual Aspen Ball was held June 19, 2004, at the Tucson Hilton East. The event commemorated the first anniversary of the Aspen Fire which swept through Summerhaven on that date, destroying much of the beloved village. Decorations included table settings of Ponderosa pines propagated from Mt. Lemmon seeds, pinecones, and a mountain theme. A buffet dinner was provided for guests, and music for dancing featured Tim O'Connor and Scott Jeffers, long-time entertainers on the mountain. A silent auction offered a variety of unique pieces of artwork, baskets, jewelry, furniture and other fun items. Generous donations and a great turnout raised almost $29,000. The net proceeds benefitted the Mt. Lemmon Fire District, Mt. Lemmon Water District and projects for Trees for Mt. Lemmon.
2005 - Saturday, June 18
Two years after the Aspen Fire, Trees for Mt. Lemmon once again sponsored this annual event highly anticipated and enjoyed by all who attended. This year's ball was held at the Reid Park Doubletree Inn and featured a winter theme. Silver pinecones, mirrors and miniature candles graced the tables, and the Desert Cadillacs provided music for dancing and entertainment. In addition, an outstanding silent auction kept bidders feverishly keeping track of their items, and everyone enjoyed mingling with good friends and the delicious sit-down dinner. Over $22,000 was netted this year, and donations again went to the Mt. Lemmon Fire and Water Districts. The remaining funds were used to propagate plants for Mt. Lemmon property owners
2006 - Saturday, June 17
"Discovering Mt. Lemmon, Then and Now" welcomed guests to the Third Annual Aspen
Ball, complete with "mountainy" decor, costumed characters and Belle, the resident mule! A step back in time with video display of cabins, old and new, old photos of memories, and DVDs for purchase created a most memorable evening. Once again the ball was held at the Reid Park Doubletree Inn on the anniversary date of the Aspen Fire, and it was decidedly the most successful of all. A beautiful stage setting of mountains, pine trees and a full moon provided the backdrop for the dance floor, where people again enjoyed music by the Desert Cadillacs. Great food, fellowship, silent auction and entertainment will always be remembered, especially the camaderie of the wonderful Mt. Lemmon community. Net proceeds of over $24,000 this year were donated ($5,000 each) to the Mt. Lemmon Fire Department, Mt. Lemmon Water District, and the new Mt. Lemmon Community Center for the furnishing of tables and chairs. The balance of proceeds again went to Trees for Mt. Lemmon for programs to benefit the community.
