Grads Night Out needs help from our community | Letters | May 20

Published 4:18 pm Thursday, May 19, 2011

On June 11, our little island will once again celebrate the graduation of our high school seniors. While this is a time of great joy, it poses a number of dangers that occur immediately after graduation if these kids don’t have a safe and fun alternative to partying around the island.

For years, parents have organized and paid for a safe all night event that the grads love. This year will be no different, except that in the past parents have been able to cover all the costs of the event through ticket sales.

It is also the belief that no student is left out, no matter their ability to pay. As such, we have relied upon the generosity of parents to help make up the difference.

This year, however, we are struggling to balance the increased cost of the event and the increased number of scholarships requested. So why does this matter?

According to the Youth Risk Surveillance Survey, 10 percent of all students admit to drinking and driving and 28 percent admit to riding in a car with a drunk driver.

Of the fatal car crashes that occur between midnight and 3 a.m. on any typical weekend, 77 percent involve alcohol. One teenager dies each hour in a car crash and nearly 50 percent involve alcohol. Imagine what the statistics would be on graduation day and night.

This year, we need a little help. The organizing committee is struggling to cover the most basic costs. We are asking anyone who is  inclined to help out financially to please do so now. Any amount is appreciated and funds left over will be used for next year’s grad night.

These are challenging times for so many of us, so we sincerely thank you for your support.

Donations can either be dropped at any Union Bank or mailed to:

BHS Senior Cruise Class of 2011

c/o Union Bank

901 Hildebrand Lane NW

Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Dianne Speers, Carla Mackey

Grad Night Out co-chairs