Lori Howell and Don Justice, winners of the dance contest and the coveted mirror ball trophy.

Lori Howell and Don Justice, winners of the dance contest and the coveted mirror ball trophy.
By Art Hunter

The fourth annual “Dancing with the Stars Extravaganza,” a fund-raiser for the Clermont County DD Gift of Time Respite Cooperative Program, was held Saturday, March 2 at the Eastgate Holiday Inn and Suites.

Sharon Woodrow, Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities superintendent, said that this year’s event went exceptionally well.

“I thought it was just fabulous,” Woodrow said. “It was probably the nicest one we’ve ever done.”

Eight couples danced for a record crowd, and audience members bought votes for their favorite dancers.

Lori Howell and Don Justice won the dance contest and the coveted mirror ball trophy.

Proceeds from the event fund the respite program, which provides a place for children and adults who have a developmental disability to participate in organized and fun activities while their caregivers are taking of chores such as shopping, running errands, and attending to other important tasks they may not be able to take care of while they are caring for their relative with disabilities.

Woodrow said that the format for next year’s event will be changed. While there will still be dancing, the format will become a talent contest.

“It will be a little more open,” Woodrow said. “We don’t want to discourage dancers, but if someone wants to do something different, we’re open to that.”

While plans for next year have not been finalized, participants may be able to sing, play an instrument, or put together an act with a group of people.

“We will still offer the community a fun and entertaining event to raise money for the respite program,” Woodrow said.

For more information about the Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities, call (513) 732-7000 or visit www.clermontdd.org.
Photos from this event are available for viewing and purchase. Click here.