The Mattoon High School JROTC hosted their annual military ball March 5, 2022. Jacob Fryman, Mattoon Middle School dean of students and veteran, was the featured speaker. Mattoon Mayor Rick Hall, also a veteran, Mattoon School Board President Michelle Skinlo and board member Erika Weaver, Supt. Tim Condron and Assistant Supt. of Student Services Christy Hild were some of the guests. The annual military ball is steeped into tradition from cutting the cake (with Jacob Fryman (pictured left) helping Hannah Stroud of the JROTC, to the making, serving and drinking of the grog, photos 2-4. Following the traditional ceremonies, the students and their escorts are encouraged to dance for the remainder of the ball. The following day, with the gymnasium still decorated, the JROTC hosted a dance for community members 50 and older.
