After Prom receives donations from two community organizations

Masons Barry Allen, Guy Gilbert, and (Worshipful Master) Ryan Klobucar present check to After Prom. Photo courtesy of Barry Allen.

Lions Peggy Allen & Barry Allen presenting a check to After Prom. Photo courtesy of Barry Allen.

For many years Manchester Lodge (#148) and the Manchester Lions Club have been contributing to the Manchester High School's After Prom event. This year the two organizations presented checks for $500 and $200 respectively.

This event has been held after prom has ended and is a “lock-in” inside of the school. On average 95% of the students that attend the prom stay at for after prom. During After Prom, the after prom committee hosts events such as putt-putt golf, henna tattoos, jump houses, and laser tag in order entice as many students as possible. One of the draws for the event are the prizes that are given out throughout the night. These items are mainly aimed towards students upcoming transition into college like mini-fridges and gift cards for gas and other businesses. The committee's goal is to provide a $20 minimum gift for each student. Additional food is also provided ranging from Buffalo Wild Wings and also such local spots as Manchester Market Chicken. The event is held from 11:30pm to 4am.

Mason Barry Allen stated, "Manchester Lodge has always viewed this is a worthwhile endeavor to support within our community. This is an event that not only keeps students but others in the community safe and out of potentially dangerous situations that could be detrimental to lives. Students have come back to tell us how great of an experience it was sharing it among friends and classmates as a chapter of their lives close and another begins!"

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.