Adding to deb tradition

B.W. COOK

Celebrating more than 10,000 hours of volunteerism, the Newport

chapter of the National Charity League introduced 25 exceptional

young women to its society.

It was the 43rd annual charity ball, attracting more than 500

black tie guests to the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Irvine.

The presentation to society was emceed by James Roberts in the

Hyatt ballroom, which was transformed into a winter white wonderland

by celebrity florist Andrew Gromach of Couture Flowers. White on

white arrangements of hydrangeas, roses and tulips surrounded and

accompanied the debutantes as they took their formal bows. Mary

Fallon, president of the Newport chapter, deserves considerable

credit for her dedication along with Susan Hillgren, director of the

2003 debutante activities. Hillgren was charged with creating the

elegant ball -- no small task indeed.

The American debutante tradition began in 1748 when 59 prominent

Philadelphia families adapted the social event from the English Court

of St. James. The Philadelphians called the early debutante balls

dancing assemblies and they were designed to introduce young ladies

to potential husbands.

Times have changed, but the traditions, including the white gowns,

and the St. James bow, remain. Today the debutante is instilled with

the purpose of community service. National Charity League debs

fulfill a six-year program of philanthropic work that unites a

generational link between mother and daughter.

* THE CROWD appears Thursdays and Saturdays.