Cudahy, WI: On July 12th, Simone Farris celebrated her 16th birthday in grand style. Hundreds of guests arrived at the Victorian Masquerade Ball dressed in elegant long gowns, fashionable tuxedos, and dazzling masks. 

Simone’s parents, Raquel and Larry Farris, smiled with great joy as guests enthusiastically greeted the “princess” Simone and her handsome court as they entered the Castle’s grand hall. 

The Ball was held in the Dresden Castle – a beautiful building in Cudahy, Wisconsin converted from a Catholic Church to a unique event center in 2021. Although maintaining its gorgeous stained glass windows, the sanctuary portion of the former church was transformed, with the approval of former church members, into a room reminiscent of a huge royal dining hall. 

A highlight of the marvelous festivities was the much anticipated father/daughter dance. Simone’s father Larry (principal of Milwaukee High School of the Arts and recent recipient of the Superintendent’s Spirit Award for leading with courage, passion, and enthusiasm) joined Simone in the middle of the dance floor. 

Larry looked like a powerful king and Simone a stunningly beautiful princess. Larry is not known for his dancing skills. Guests were amazed at the exquisitely choreographed dance routine he and Simone gracefully performed. His cousin Dr. James E. Sulton, III echoed the sentiment of many others in attendance, saying “I didn’t know he had moves like that!” 

It was an extravagant fun-filled family event. Elders and small children too danced, played and feasted until midnight. The weather was perfect. The food was delicious and plentiful. The venue was splendid. The decorations were fantastic. The multi-colored lighting was delightful. The music selections were wonderful and the volume at which the music was played was just right, permitting even soft spoken conversations among guests. 

Happy birthday Simone.