Story by Lindsay Kilburn, Photography by Lindsay Kilburn & Kristina Only

Dancing with The STARs was held Thursday, October 26 at the Jackson Fairgrounds. The event was sold out as members of the community came to root on their favorite dancers as they competed for the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy. This was the eighth annual Dancing with the Stars, presented by Leaders Credit Union, that directly benefits the Star Center in Jackson. 

Seven couples, from physicians to football coaches to sales and local business owners, all worked tirelessly for months practicing with their choreographers. Everyone did a phenomenal job. Guests voted on their favorites as well throughout the night. After all the dancers competed, they and the audience eagerly waited with anticipation as the new Mirror Ball Champions, Dorthea Spates and Bryce King claimed the Mirror Ball Trophy. The duo also won Peoples Choice. Dorthea Spates is the owner of C.A.R.E. Janitorial and is the crossing guard at University School of Jackson. Bryce King is the USJ Middle School Dean of Students/Mathematics Teacher and Assistant High School football coach. The pair was choreographed by Erica Davison. Together they raised $11,700. Additional awards: 1st Runner-up went to Brooke Hinson and Joseph Robinson, 2nd Runner-up - Terri Cider and Brian Davis, Best Costume - Mecca Jarmon and Jake Carroll, Highest Fundraiser Dorthea Spates, and the Hustle Award went to Deann Thelen. 

This was a fabulous evening that directly benefited the STAR Center in Jackson. The STAR Center is a nonprofit, where mission is to help individuals with disabilities reach their potential and “Crush the No.” For over 30 years, the STAR Center has made a huge impact on our community.