Bossier City Gears Up for a Spooktacular Night at the Eye Ball
As Halloween approaches, excitement is building in Bossier City. The Louisiana Association for the Blind (L.A.B.) is hosting an extravagant party that promises to be the highlight of the season—the inaugural Eye Ball 2024. On October 25, from 7 p.m. to midnight, the Riverdome at the Horseshoe Casino is set to transform into a magical world where the community can don their most fantastical costumes and enjoy a night full of fun and festivities.
A Party Like No Other
According to Alison Young, the vice president of development at L.A.B., this is projected to be the largest adult Halloween party in Northwest Louisiana. Guests can expect a spine-tingling evening featuring a variety of entertainment options, including dueling DJs, a mystifying voodoo queen, a fortune teller, and even a magician known as Dr. Marvel. And if you’re feeling brave, don’t miss the tunnel of terror and the chance to win $1,000 in the thrilling costume contest, open to the best male, female, and couple costumes.
A Community Celebration
The Eye Ball isn’t just about the fun—it’s also a chance to learn more about L.A.B. and its mission. “Funds raised will go towards renovating our headquarters into the area’s premier Assistive Technology Center,” Alison explains. “This will help us provide the latest technology and training for people who are blind or visually impaired, empowering them to become more independent.”
For those not familiar with L.A.B., they are the largest producer of copy paper in Louisiana, supplying the U.S. military as well as commercial businesses. You can also support them by purchasing their products, with free local delivery available within a 100-mile radius of the Shreveport-Bossier area.
Meet the Honorary Chairs
This event has drawn the attention of local community volunteers, including Susanna Van Norman and her husband, Dr. Russ Van Norman from Shreveport Eye Specialists, who are excited to serve as this year’s honorary chairs. “We were amazed by the L.A.B. facilities when we toured them,” Susanna shares. “The training kitchen and adaptive technology they offer are truly impressive and instrumental in helping individuals with low or no vision.”
The Masters of Ceremony
Bringing the energy to the event will be the impressive duo of Ed Walsh and Sonja Bailes as the evening’s masters of ceremony. To top it off, the night will feature performances by local talents including Moriah Hicks, Ophy James, and an array of entertainment from the Mahogany Ensemble Theatre.
Unique Experiences Await
Guests can try out the Trick-or-Treat Tunnel, which will include interactive experiences like the Brave Box. This sensory box challenges guests to identify different objects merely by touch, highlighting how those with visual impairments often rely on their sense of touch. Food options will also be deliciously themed, with imaginative fare like eyeball meatballs and candy from giant coffins.
Make a Difference While Having Fun
The Eye Ball is not only a celebration but also a chance to make a meaningful contribution. “With every ticket purchase and donation,” Alison stresses, “you are improving lives and supporting people in our community who are visually impaired, many of whom face a staggering 70% unemployment rate.” Tickets for this enchanting night are priced at $75 and can be acquired through the event website.
Join the Celebration
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Halloween experience while supporting a fantastic cause, grab your tickets to the Eye Ball! The Riverdome at the Horseshoe Casino is located at 711 Horseshoe Blvd. in Bossier City, and the festivities promise to make this a memorable night both for you and for the lives you’ll help improve.
For more information about the Louisiana Association for the Blind and their incredible resources, visit their website or give them a call. This community event is one not to be missed!
