Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will the 2009 Ball be held?
The 2009 Ball will be held Monday, December 28, 2009 and the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel in the Symphony Ballroom.
Is there a formal invitation coming?
A formal invitation will be mailed before Thanksgiving.
I would like to receive an invitaiton. How can I arrange that?
Please send your name and address to Becky Ross at rc.ross@comcast.net and your name will be added to the mailing list.
Who will be the guest speaker?
Michael A. Newton, co-author of "Enemy of the State - the Trial and Execution of Saddam Hussein" will be our speaker. Newton is a 1984 graduate of the United States Military Academy and currently a law professor at Vanderbilt. For more information on Newton and the book, click here.
Where do we park?
The hotel does provide a paid parking lot. However, free parking is available across West End Avenue on the Vanderbilt University campus.
What is the Dress Attire for the Ball?
Students: Mess Dress, Full Dress over White or winter uniform. Military Guests: Uniform. Civilians: Black Tie (optional).
We are thinking of spending the night in Nashville. Are there any special room rates for overnight stays for Ball attendees?
Yes. The Loews management has reserved rooms for us at a special "Ball Rate" of $119. Please call 615-320-1700 and ask for the Reservations Department. The rooms are reserved under the "All Academy & ROTC Ball."
I would like to make a donation to the Tennessee All Academy Parents' Club in support of their efforts to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. Where do I send a check?
Checks made out to the club can be sent to PO Box 50765, Nashville, TN 37205.
Is there a live band?
Yes. Paul Ross and the Kadillacs will provide the evenings music. We'll have live music during the cocktail hour, during the dinner hour and afterwards.
Will you provide a photographer?
Yes. "Photos by Alex" was there to take pictures and they are up. You can view them on her website. http://InfpAlex.zenfolio.com/p52647790 Double click on the picture you like and click "add to cart". If a Products page pops up, select "All Prints" under "Prints" for the best selection of photo sizes. Registration is not necessary. You can check out as a "Guest". Checkout is either with a credit card or through Paypal. Four by six pictures are 35 cents each. It's easy!
Is this a buffet or a seated dinner?
This is a served dinner with dessert.
Will there be any exhibits?
Yes. The Military Collectors will be back!
What will the Raffle items be?
Lots of items! Tickets are $5 and you must be present to win.
Is the seating assigned?
Yes. There will be tables of eight. You will receive a table number at our welcome table upon arrival. The returned reservation card included in your invitation will allow you to request seating with friends and family and we will do our best to accommodate your requests. Seating is set up: Air Force guests will be seated with other Air Force guests; Navy guests with other Navy guests; etc.
What is the evenings format?
6:00 Cocktail Hour with cash bar in reception area outside Symphony Ballroom
7:00 Presentation followed by formal toasts
7:30 Dinner, Speaker, Cash Bar, Dancing, and Raffle