The Huntsville Symphony Ball Committee hosted the 2023 Symphony Ball Debutantes in a Service and Learning Day on Friday, May 19, in the Huntsville Museum of Art Maxwell Hall.  

Debutantes had their photographs made as they entered Maxwell Hall, where they were greeted by Michele Lucas, 2023 Ball Chair; Samantha Thompson, Service Project Committee Chair; and Tricia Murray, 2024 Ball Chair. 

Dan Holcomb, CEO of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra, gave a brief history of the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. Following Dan’s remarks, the Debutantes began the first service project of the day, preparing coloring packages for pediatric patients at Huntsville Hospital. Joanna May-Rouse, whose late husband created the artwork for the service project coloring books, spoke about the history of the coloring books and the packaging designed especially for the hospital. The debutantes prepared 500 packages of coloring books and crayons, which the Guild Ball committee delivered to Huntsville Hospital. Fran Fluhler, founder of Manna House, generously donated the crayons for the project.As lunch was served, Fran gave an inspirational message entitled “Love Your Neighbor.” Accompanied by two music teachers, Sharon Hicks, Director of Education for the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra, instructed the Debutantes in cleaning and prepping 150 violins for the 3rd Grade Symphony Educational Program commencing in the fall.  The Debutantes enjoyed their day of service to the community and fellowship with each other.