For several years, “Prom Promise” has been part of Bridgeport High School Prom.

 

“Prom Promise was organized to provide an alcohol/drug free alternative to the traditional drinking parties that have become a common form of celebration following a prom,” said Melissa Reid, chair of the 2023 BHS Prom Promise steering committee. “Its focus is to increase awareness of alcohol/drug related crashes involving teens and to help reduce the number of fatalities associated with teenage drunk driving, especially during prom season.”

 

To provide that alternative experience, a chaperoned after-prom event will be held at Buffalo Wild Wings in Charles Pointe following the May 6 BHS Junior-Senior prom at Bridgeport Conference Center. The venue, which has been utilized in past recent years, is in close walking distance to the prom location and has been more than accommodating in years past, organizers said.

 

As always, the event will feature food, games, and lots of prizes, from gift cards to electronics to outdoor adventure gear. Area businesses are being approached by the Prom Promise Committee and BHS Junior Class to support this year’s post-prom event. Donations of cash and merchandise is appreciated. Donated merchandise will be utilized as prizes and the committee will purchases additional prizes with donated cash.

 

“In the past we've had some really amazing gifts such as TVs, laptops, concert tickets, golf packages, and college dorm accessories,” Reid said.

 

Anyone who would like to contribute toward that important cause can mail checks, payable to BHS, to BHS Prom After Activities Committee, 515 Johnson Ave., Bridgeport, WV 26330.

 

To schedule pickup of donated merchandise, contact Reid at 304-838-5332.

 

In the past, hundreds of students have turned out for the post-prom activities and businesses have been most generous in supporting the event.

 

“For those who have contributed in the past, we sincerely thank you! In past years, we have had hundreds of students turn out for this event. They truly look forward to having this opportunity to continue their evening in a safe an enjoyable atmosphere,” Reid said. “This even would not be possible without you! It is our hope that you will consider contributing to this evening of fun for our students.”

 

Another way to help with this effort is to eat at Buffalo Wild Wings on Mon., Jan. 30 between 4 and 9 p.m. Mention "BHS Prom Promise" when you order and 15 percent of your total bill will be donated to the cause. 

 

Working with Reid and her parent committee are junior class officers Presley Carlyle, Caroline Deniker, Gregory Noone, Ava Fazalare, and Sam Dodson.