After wondering if the “chem-free” grad would be held at all earlier this month, there’s no question now that Fort High teens can party in a safe, sober setting here June 20.
“It’s definitely a ‘go,’” said Diane Noonan, one of the organizers. “Service clubs and the business community have come forward in a big way.”
From food to door prizes, sponsors have contributed generously to the “chem-free” grad, which runs from 10 p.m.-4 a.m. at the Memorial Sports Centre. Among some of the prizes up for grabs are a DVD player, stereo, digital camera, gold chain, and a colour printer, as well as gift certificates and gift baskets.
Another part of the support has come from the collection boxes set up at the check-outs in Safeway earlier this month. “We emptied them last week and there was about $150. That’s a pretty good contribution,” said Noonan.
The boxes will remain there until just before the event.
“The organization is going well, too,” added Noonan. “We have an energetic group, and we’re reaching the point where we have almost all the activities planned.”
Entertainment will include music and a dance area, “Name That Tune,” several large-screen TVs with Nintendos and Playstations, mock gambling with which players can “buy” prizes, and five inflatable interactive games like sumo wrestling and the bungee run.
While previous “chem-free” grads (held at Sunny Cove Camp) have included a breakfast, this one will feature food for party-goers to snack on all night long.
“We have a very full night planned for these kids, and it’s going to be fun,” enthused Noonan.
Party-crashers shouldn’t be a concern for parents given security precautions will be taken.
“We have blueprints of the place, and we’ve mapped out all the entrances and exits,” said Noonan. “Most of the building can be locked, and the area we’re using [the ’52 Canadians Arena] will have volunteers acting as security at every door.
“If you leave without a chaperone, you won’t be let back in unless we’ve been notified you have a legitimate reason to leave,” she stressed. “We want to keep it ‘chem-free’ and we know [some] kids will try anything.”
While many parents already are helping out, Noonan noted some more volunteers to help out with the set-up and take down would be appreciated.
Anyone interested can call her at 274-7682.
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
