Oceanside students take to the runway

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Decked out in suave suits and gorgeous gowns, the students of Oceanside High School took to the runway for the 26th Annual Dawn Delirium Fashion Show in their gymnasium on March 1.

The event, coordinated by the Oceanside Council of PTAs, is held every year to raise money for its substance-free, post-prom celebration in June. The group raised nearly $7,000 this year, which was more than last year according to PTA chair Debbie Cohen. “[The event] seems to be something the students really enjoy doing,” Cohen said. “And the parents get a kick out of seeing their children dressed up all fancy.”

Roughly 440 guests attended with about 150 models in the show, and one shocking “promposal” at the event. Additionally, local salons, stylists and make-up artists were there to provide hair and make-up for the female models. If the students did not have a tuxedo or dress to wear, they were able to choose one provided to the event courtesy Snider’s Formalwear, the Long Island Volunteer Center, Bridal Reflections in Massapequa and R&M Richards. There were also many prom dresses donated by residents in the area and shoes and accessories were available for the students if needed.

Sandie Schoell, vice president of Oceanside’s Board of Education, said over 75 dresses were donated and girls were given the option to keep the dress to wear at the prom if they weren’t able to purchase their own.

“No drama, no stress, and the kids looked fabulous,” Schoell, who was present at the show said. She added that Dawn Delirium is a free, supervised, drug and alcohol-free party for the graduating class and their prom dates. The event, she said, is designed to “prevent bad decisions being made” on prom night.

Students are not required to attend the prom to come to Dawn Delirium, and encouraged to go to win prizes, which include electronic devices and even a 2018 Ford Fiesta. All students are entered into the raffles at least once, with multiple entries attained by getting sponsored through tickets purchased at the fashion show.