Dads, daughters and others step out for a night of dancing and socializing

Post date: Apr 06, 2018 11:14:4 AM

Based on the theme “An Enchanted Forest”, Wells Elementary School held its annual Girls Gala on March 24th. According to the sponsor and organizer of the event, the school’s PTSA, 175 girls attended with their dads or other male relatives bringing the total attendance to 343, the highest attendance for one of these events in years.

Kindergarten through 4th-grade girls in gowns with their hair done up nicely began arriving with their escorts shortly before 6 pm. Before long, the school’s parking lot was overflowing. After registering in the lobby, guests traveled down a hallway resembling a lush forest with hanging vines leading to the gymnasium that, for the night, resembled an enormous magical ballroom.

“This event is a tradition and a way to celebrate time with family or loved ones,” commented WES Principal April Noble who noted that a similar dance event is held in the fall for moms (or other female relatives) and sons in the fall. “Each year the theme changes for the girls.”

According to PTSA member Alison Pucciarelli, several PTSA members and parents helped with this two-month project which culminated with a rush to decorate after school in the final days. She said a theme had to be formulated, research done and props built leading up to this special night.

"We…would really like to thank our generous community of people, families, and businesses who volunteered their time, donated food, supplies, and raffle items,” commented Loran Townsend on behalf of the PTSA. “We couldn't do it without their support.” The Girls Gala Committee consisted of Alison Pucciarelli, Kim Bohn, Loran Townsend and Jennie Lawson.

Another PTSA member, Marcia Ciorra, noted the hard work a hand full of volunteers did in the last two days assembling the decorations and then, following the dance, working several more hours removing the decorations and props. “That’s an amazing amount of work for so few people to do,” commented Ciorra. “Alison Pucciarelli, her husband Gary, and Kim Bohn did an unbelievable job…giving our girls as close to a magical experience they could get.”

But, according to April Noble, it was worth all the effort. “I know many girls felt very special getting all dressed up and seeing the school gym transformed into a magical enchanted forest,” commented the principal. “This is truly one of the family fun events that will hold lasting memories for parents and children.”

There were refreshments for the guests in the school’s lunchroom, portraits of the couples provided by Everlasting Photos by Sasha and music provided by DJ Mike Bacon. In addition, twenty-eight business donated items for a basket raffle and a combination of individuals and six businesses donated supplies, donations, and assistance constructing props.

Casey Chick with daughter Emily about to enter the Enchanted Forest at Wells Elementary School on March 24th

At the entrance to the Enchanted Forest are (Front Row, l to r) Cami Townsend, Addison Townsend, Halle Bohn, and Stella Pucciarelli. Back Row (l to r) Loran Townsend, Kim Bohn, and Alison Pucciarelli.