Eighth-grade prom set for Sat., May 27

Eighth graders will get to experience their own prom May 27 at the National Guard Armory.

The nonprofit organization Stop the Violence and APR Entertainment Services have teamed up to sponsor the first-ever Cherokee County Eighth Grade Prom from 8-11 p.m.

A deejay will spin popular music. The event is being catered by Miss Ivan Leland of God's Work in Progress.

The eighth grade prom is not a school function and is being organized as a private event.

While the event will be similar to the high school prom, Ewing Middle school resource officer Audrey Jolly said the dance will have its own message and social agenda.

Guest speakers will speak with students during a 15minute intermission on the prom's theme "Stop the Violence." Students will then spend time meeting future high school classmates before returning to the dance floor.

"We promised the eighth graders last fall that we would hold a prom for them. We want to provide a place where teenagers can go have fun in a safe environment," Jolly said. "Each student will have to introduce themselves at the dance to three people who they do not normally see at school. This is a way for the middle school students to get to know each other before attending Gaffney High."

Students will not be required to wear tuxedos or gowns to the prom. Only eighth grade students and their dates will be admitted into the event.

"We want students to dress to impress with their Sunday best," Jolly said. "No jeans or sneakers will be allowed."

The deejay for the prom is being provided by APR Entertainment Services, a recording studio in Gaffney operated by former law enforcement officer Robert Ganzaroli. APR will be taking pictures at the prom with an awning and decorative background.

"Our interest in getting involved in the dance is to help provide a safe environment where children can have a good time," Ganzaroli said. "This is something we plan on doing every year."

Advance tickets are $10 and can be purchased at middle school offices. Tickets at the door will be $15.