Bellmore-Merrick Central District post-prom party to continue for fifth year

Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District seniors looking to party late into the night after the prom in a safe environment can continue to do so this year. Thanks to continual fundraising by the Bellmore-Merrick Wellness Council and a Nassau County Traffic Safety Board grant secured by Legislator Dave Denenberg, the Central District’s Midnight Madness post-prom party will take place on Thursday, June 21.

In its fifth year, the substance-free post-prom party has had to come up with new means of raising money. In previous years, the Wellness Council received a $15,000 grant from New York state to fund the event. Former Gov. David Paterson vetoed the grant request by state Sen. Charles Fuschillo Jr. two years ago, and it has not been reinstated since. Despite funding struggles, Wellness Council Executive Director Fran Licausi said the community’s support has been a huge help. Local businesses have made donations, in money and merchandise, for prize giveaways.

“It is definitely a go, and we will be having it,” Licausi said of the party, which has quickly become a Bellmore-Merrick tradition.

The Wellness Council began the post-prom party, for seniors and their dates, as an option for students looking for a fun, safe after-prom event, done in an alcohol- and drug-free environment. Seniors who don’t attend prom are also encouraged to attend Midnight madness. Prizes are given away, and students can dance the night away to a DJ, as well as enjoy a free breakfast, photo booth, tattoo artist and money cube — a booth where fake money is blown around, and students are able to catch it for the chance to win prizes. Finger foods are passed around throughout the night, and the students will also be treated to ice cream sundaes.

The $8,500 Traffic Safety Board grant will cover the cost of the venue as well as entertainment. The post-prom party will take place again at Zachary’s in East Meadow. The Wellness Council still needs to raise another $3,000 in funding to host the event. Licausi said local PTAs and parents have been generous in donations. Additionally, the council held a zumba fundraiser night in October. And the nonprofit group will hold a car wash at Merrick Avenue Middle School on Saturday, June 9, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Licausi said the council might have to continue fundraising after the car wash. She encouraged any parents and local business to contribute if they can. Donations can be prizes like digital cameras, laptops, gift cards or money. “We need all the support we can get,” Licausi said. “It’s for the seniors to keep them safe on prom night.”

Anyone wishing to help can call the Wellness Council at (516) 992-1073.