Central's post-prom party a growing success

For Bellmore-Merrick seniors, prom is just around the corner, and for those students who still haven't made plans for what to do after the prom on June 24, the Bellmore-Merrick Community Wellness Council has the answer.

For the third straight year, the Wellness Council will hold a post-prom event, this time at Zacharys Lounge in East Meadow; the event, dubbed "Midnight Madness," is open to all Bellmore-Merrick seniors and their dates. The post-prom party was created as an alternative for students looking for something fun and safe to do after the prom. The alcohol- and drug-free event has grown since it began 2008, said Wellness Council Executive Director Fran Licausi. "It's all about keeping the kids safe on night that could be dangerous," she said.

Some 120 students attended the first post-prom party at Sportime in 2008, and 200 showed up to Zacharys in 2009. Licausi said she has heard that even more plan on attending this year. The event, which offers raffles, a D.J., a tattoo artist and a magician illusionist, has been a hit with those in attendance. "The kids had a great time; they said it was even better than the prom itself," Licausi said.

The Wellness Council received a grant secured by New York State Sen. Charles Fuschillo Jr., as well as aid from Assemblyman Dave McDonough and Nassau County Legislator Dave Denenberg; local businesses and parents also make donations of electronic items like TVs, printers and iPods to raffle off. Coordinator Phyllis Guttillla has been instrumental in obtaining the prizes and entertainment for the evening.

The event runs from midnight to 5 a.m. after the prom, and breakfast is served. Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from Zacharys.

Comments about this story? DKrasula@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 234.