About 300 LGBTs and supporters gathered before the namesake of the Franklin Institute at the Oct. 6 Indigo Ball. In addition to dinner, drinks and dancing, the ball, the primary fundraiser for the Way LGBT Community Center, featured a presentation by former board member Eric Ashton and volunteer SharRon Cooks, who delivered a video presentation on the center. An award ceremony followed, in which Al Beese, Deb Francesco and Optimal Sport Health Clubs were honored. “It was just a spectacular venue,” William Way development director Michael Pomante said of the Franklin Institute, a first-time host. “We heard a lot of reports that this was the best Indigo Ball event yet. It was a much more magical and meaningful evening.” Following the ball, Voyeur Nightclub hosted the second annual IndiGoGo — a dance party that drew 560 people. Together the events raised $50,000 for the center, $10,000 more than last year’s festivities. Scott Drake
