WHAT’S HAPPENING: Kugel Ball sparkles in black and white

WHAT'S HAPPENING

The Science Museum of Virginia held its fourth annual Kugel Ball and after-party Oct. 9 to support educational science programs for youngsters in the Richmond area and throughout Virginia.

This year's black-and-white theme was inspired by Truman Capote's celebrated black-and-white masked ball of 1966. Appropriately, most of the 275 guests were outfitted in glamorous black-and-white formal attire, and many donned dramatic masks of feathers, beads and satin.

"While the Science Museum hosts more than 500 events each year, the Kugel Ball is our best opportunity to stage an event that directly supports the mission of the museum," said Richard Conti, director and CEO of the Science Museum. "We are delighted with the more than $100,000 raised, and with the friends we made at this year's Kugel."

The event began with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres with Strolling Silver Strings -- young musicians from Norfolk's public schools -- serenading guests. A sit-down dinner followed in the rotunda. The evening continued with "The Clock Ticks" after-party with dancing to Big Ray and the Kool Kats.

Honorary chairs for the event were Caroline and Marshall N. Morton. He's the president and CEO of Media General, which publishes the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

"The Mortons agreed to serve because they are passionate about the importance of science education in our society," Conti said. "Caroline has served on the museum's Liaison Committee for many years, and Marshall is a director on the Foundation Board."

John C. Ivins Jr. is president of the foundation's board of directors. James H. Starkey III is chairman of the board of trustees. And SunTrust was lead sponsor.

Marsha Polier Grossman is a Chesterfield County freelance photographer. She can be contacted at .