Beginnings' benefit will have couples dancing like stars

Jan. 14--Dancing will bring autism into the spotlight.

The eighth annual "Beginnings Inc. Dancing Like a Star Benefit" will be held Feb. 3 at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center, 301 Napoleon St., downtown Johnstown.

The benefit is modeled after TV's "Dancing With the Stars" with dancers competing against each other to earn the most donations from the crowd.

Funds raised will aid local children's service programs at Beginnings Inc.

Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with a dinner buffet at 6, dance competition from 7:30 to 9 and dancing to a DJ from 9 to 11.

"We've had a lot of success with this event and it's well-attended each year," said Paula Eppley-Newman, executive director of Beginnings Inc.

"It brings us all together and gives us a platform to talk about what Beginnings does and how the impact on young children can strengthen our community."

When doors open, attendees will be able to take part in an art auction.

There will be artistic donations in an array of media from local artists, plus artwork created by children who participate in Beginnings Inc. support programs.

Anyone interested in donating art can drop it off at the Beginnings Inc. office, 111 Market St., downtown Johnstown.

"We have beautiful paintings and drawings," Eppley-Newman said.

"There also will be a small basket party, so there will be something for everybody."

The dancing competition will once again be hosted by Jim Penna.

Serving as judges will be local community members.

Dance couples or groups can choose a variety of dance styles, including jitterbug, salsa, tango, waltz, hustle, rumba, cha-cha, swing, Bollywood, tap and Irish step.

Eppley-Newman said participants don't need to be trained dancers to compete.

"People have a really good time with it," she said.

"The judges criteria isn't so much about dance moves or footwork, it's about do you get the audience involved, are you smiling and are you having a good time. It's more about the presentation than anything else."

Dancing awards and auction winners will be announced at 9.

Couples and groups will compete for mirror ball trophies from the judge's selection based on scores from the dance floor and a fan favorite voted on by the public for $1 a vote.

Those who would like to vote but can't attend the event can send their $1 votes to Beginnings Inc., 111 Market St., Johnstown, Pa. 15901.

When the dance competition is over, DJ Randy will play dance music until 11.

"This is a different and unique event and everyone has such an amazing time," Eppley-Newman said.

Tickets are $65 per person, and tables of eight can be reserved.

Seating is limited and reservations are required by Jan. 27.

If room is available, walk-ins are welcome to come at 7 to watch the dance competition for $20.

Sponsorship opportunities also are available.

For more information, call 539-1919.

Kelly Urban is a reporter with The Tribune-Democrat. Follow her on Twitter @KellyUrban25.

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