Safe Grad Night needs your help

It's that time of year when Dayton High School's Safe Grad Night Committee requests the community's support in making the event a success.

This is the second year that parents have stepped in to plan the event, since the restructuring of Lyon County Parks & Recreation, which until then had been the sponsoring organization.

Now falling under the umbrella of the Booster Club, a parent committee representing all classes is busy getting the details in place.

"We are trying to model this after Carson High School's (approach) where we see parents representing each grade (freshman, sophomore, junior) participate, so that once their child is graduating, they know how to plan this event," Jones said. "If you have a child in school, no matter what grade, you have a vested interest in making this a fun, successful event.

"Because one day, Safe Grad will be for your child, and as a parent, you won't have to worry about their well-being."

With the economy being what it is, and higher fuel costs, the committee is facing bigger challenges than prior years.

"It's going to cost substantially more to rent the buses and it is more difficult during these times for people to give," Jones said. "But this is so important, not only to recognizing these kids' accomplishments, but to provide a safe venue for them."

The event takes place June 5 at Incline Recreation Center. The students are bused to and from the party, which is fully chaperoned.

"It's an all-night celebration with swimming, obstacle courses, jousting, food and beverages where the kids can have fun and be safe," Jones said.

Each year, the committee likes to have a raffle and also be able to present each graduate with something they can bring into the dorm with them or use when they leave home.

These items can include everything from gift cards to purchase what they need, microwaves, I-Pods ... items they can take to college with them.

The cost to host Safe Grad is going to be at least $17,000 and organizers like to leave a few thousand in the account for the following years' event, Jones said.

Organizers expect 137 students plus guests to attend.

Jones acknowledged the outstanding support the business community and private citizens have given in the past.

"Without their support, Safe Grad wouldn't be possible," she said, adding for businesses this is a wonderful way to give back to the town that supports them.

"What I know is that Dayton is a great community and I've seen them come out and rally at the 11th hour," Jones said. "And we're almost there."

For more information, or to donate prizes or gifts, contact Jones at 246-7371 or Diane Remington at 246-5229.

• Karel Ancona-Henry is a Dayton resident and can be reached at 246-4000.