A PERFECT PALS PROM — Approximately 80 individuals attended prom Aug. 4, as those involved in the Cadiz Physical Activity and Life Skills program celebrated its fourth year in the area. St. Florian Hall in Wintersville welcomed guests who had the opportunity to dine and dance throughout the evening. -- Contibuted

WINTERSVILLE — No one mentioned the fact the calendar read Aug. 4. No one commented this wasn’t spring and dances such as this do not take place toward the end of summer.

That is because this particular prom had a purpose. And the meaning behind the special event gave everyone a reason to smile, ignoring what the calendar said.

Those involved with the Cadiz PALS — a program built on the foundation of Physical Activity and Life Skills, for those with disabilities, decided to celebrate its four-year anniversary by doing something a little different from the ordinary.

So it was the 80 attendees put on their finest attire. Women wore evening gowns and their finest jewelry while men went into their closets to find that just-right suit, some with a hat to match.

Those at St. Florian Hall in Wintersville celebrated by dining to the catered meal prepared by Undo’s Restaurant. They danced for hours to selections made by disc jockey Anthony Feaster and had their photos taken as keepsakes of the occasion by staff members.

They simply enjoyed the evening which was entitled, A Night Under the Sea: PALS Chrysalis Health.

Maria Prentice, program manager, stated the prom gave participants a fun way to celebrate the Harrison County site’s milestone.

“This is the fourth year for PALS,” Prentice said. “We usually celebrate every year with a picnic and invite county boards and family members. But this year we wanted to do something different.

“I had this vision since I started with PALS and I spoke with the individuals about it,” she continued. “They were excited about dressing up. And we do open it up to family members to see it.”

Others invited to witness the prom in person were those from the Jefferson County PALS and officials from the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities. The Cadiz PALS not only serves those in Harrison County, but those in Jefferson and Belmont counties.

Its numerous person-centered programs are designed to create opportunities and success for the individuals with disabilities that we work with.

“Our programs offer individuals the necessary tools they need to be active members of the community and maintain a high quality of life,” according to program officials.

According to Prentice, St. Florian Hall was an ideal place to hold the event and she was pleased to see everyone enjoying themselves.

“I could not do this without my staff,” Prentice said, adding more dances may be held in the future.Those who attended agreed with Prentice, including Randall McMillen of Cadiz.

“I love it,” he stated. “I love everything.” McMillen attended the prom with his date, Sally Moreland, who resides in Cadiz as well.

Steubenville resident Lisa Majewski commented, “I’m excited. I got butterflies in my stomach. I feel like I’m flying in the top of the skies somewhere.”

Mount Pleasant resident Melissa Vargo said she was excited to have her hair done and commented to Prentice she would attend a dance every year if they had one. Another prom-goer, Sandra Baksa of East Springfield replied, “I like it. It’s different.”

Michael Zinno, superintendent of the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities, was among those attending the summer prom. He stated he hopes organizers will hold a similar event in the future.

PALS Chrysalis Health offers a variety of services for individuals. From in-house activities and vocational skills to outdoor excursions on weekdays, there are various activities for those involved in PALS. Home economics are among the life skills learned.

There are trips to go bowling or swimming. Experiences are gained through work-based performances such as janitorial duties for the Ohio Department of Transportation and at rest areas at Tappan and Piedmont lakes. Lawn maintenance is done at the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities and shredding services have been performed for the Harrison County Courthouse.