As the Best Buddies club at Walpole High School grows significantly in numbers each year, so too does excitement for the annual spring semi-formal. With a record number of members participating this year, expectations were set high for a lively atmosphere and an impressive turnout. On March 7, students flocked to the annual Best Buddies Semi-formal Dinner Dance at the Italian American Club in Walpole.
The semi-formal—a highly anticipated springtime event since its start in 2009— has emerged as one of Best Buddies’ most successful soirées, as it draws a large crowd every year. This March, more than 60 members donned dresses and dress shirts for a night of pop music and snacks. Though the group holds monthly events— such as movie nights, sporting events, and bowling tournaments— the dinner dance is unique because it gives the students an opportunity to dress up, eat a formal dinner, and dance with their friends in celebration of the school year.
As the biggest event on the club’s calendar, many hours of preparation are needed to create a memorable event for the students. “Our hope is always that students enjoy themselves at the dance and keep talking about it for the rest of their time in Best Buddies. Most of our members look forward to this event every year, so we want to give them a night that lives up to their expectations,” said Mr. John Curley, head of Best Buddies.
Preparations— spearheaded by Mrs. Kelly Udahl— begin many months before the date of the dance. In the early stages of planning, tickets must be sold in order to book the venue, the DJ, and purchase food and supplies. Local stores are contacted for donations of water, food, and other necessities. Next, chaperones and other volunteers are organized to help facilitate the event. Curley said, “we get a nice turnout of volunteers from their school and town community, and I think the students really appreciate seeing them make an effort to come out and support our club.”
The night began when eager students entered the Italian American Club in their formal attire. Girls dressed in semi-formal dresses in a range of colors and styles, while boys arrived shirts and ties. Students mingled with each other and took pictures with their friends while they waited for dinner, which consisted of homemade pasta, meatballs, chicken, salad, and pizza.
Soon after, Best Buddies members hit the dance floor. Students danced with their friends to current pop songs and classic 90’s hits. One crowd favorite was the formation of a huge conga line by students and staff. Regarding the palpable excitement of the attendees, Curly said, “The staff was thrilled with the turnout, the energy and enthusiasm of the students.”
When they were not on the dance floor, students participated in other activities set up in the function hall. Raffles were held throughout the night and estimation jars filled with candy were awarded to their winners (Senior Robbie Lederman and Courntey Waters). Also, Ryan Cisternelli took home the door prize raffle consisting of movie tickets and snacks.
At the end of the night, while students were served cake and ice cream, final words were shared. Speeches were given by a few students recognizing this year’s achievements and the many memories that were made during the year. A group of students consisting of Lederman, Waters, Celiene Henri, and Dan Cain thanked Mr. Curley and Mrs. Udhal for the amazing night and their dedication to both the club and the students throughout the year. Finally, Mrs. Udhal spoke to the Buddies and acknowledged the care with which they maintain their friendships as well as their inspiring attitudes of optimism.
With the success of the 2014 semi-formal, the Best Buddies club intends to continue this annual tradition for years to come. Enjoyed by the students and staff alike, this year’s dance succeeded in fulfilling the club’s goal of strengthening bonds between students while encouraging the formation of lifelong friendships. Of the annual event, Lederman said, “The semi-formal is a celebration of the friendships and relationships we have built over the school year and shows how much we care about each other.”
